Shows
Reasoning Through the BibleS17 || God's Graphic Rebuke of Israel || Ezekiel 16:35-63 || Session 17Prepare for a raw and unflinching look at divine disappointment as we explore one of Scripture's most graphic passages in Ezekiel 16:35-63. Using the powerful metaphor of marriage betrayed, God confronts Israel's spiritual unfaithfulness with language that still startles readers today.The discussion opens by examining God's portrayal of Israel as a beautiful bride who degenerates into a shameless prostitute—but one who remarkably pays her lovers rather than receiving payment. This shocking imagery represents Israel's eager adoption of pagan worship practices, including the horrific sacrifice of their children to foreign gods like Molech. As Glenn and St...
2025-08-2031 min
Reasoning Through the BibleS2 || Beyond Words: Encountering God's Overwhelming Glory || Ezekiel 1:4-28 || Session 2Have you ever wondered what God's arrival somewhere actually looks like? Ezekiel chapter 1 gives us perhaps the most vivid glimpse found anywhere in Scripture—and it's absolutely mind-bending.Glenn and Steve dive deep into the prophet's extraordinary vision, exploring the whirlwind of fire, the four-faced living creatures, the mysterious wheels within wheels covered with eyes, and the overwhelming splendor that caused Ezekiel to fall flat on his face in reverent awe. But rather than getting lost in symbolic interpretations, they focus on experiencing the emotional impact and theological significance of this cosmic encounter.The conversation re...
2025-07-1634 min
Reasoning Through the BibleGod's Causation and Human Free Will in Genesis Chapters 45 and 50 || Session 75 || Biblical AnalysisHow can human actions, driven by free will, align with divine providence? Explore this compelling question with us as we dissect the story of Joseph from Genesis chapters 45 and 50 on Reasoning Through the Bible. We promise you'll gain a deeper understanding of how the seemingly conflicting notions of God's causation and human agency coexist. Through key verses like Genesis 45:7-8 and Genesis 50:20, we unravel how Joseph's brothers' malicious intentions were ultimately used by God to bring about a greater good. Join Glenn and Steve as they navigate differing views on God's interaction with human free will, highlighting t...
2024-09-0925 min
Reasoning Through the BibleRTTB Ministry Update || Spring 2024Glenn and Steve warmly invite you to a ministry update of "Reasoning Through the Bible," where we celebrate the milestones of our verse-by-verse teaching and our growing listenership. We're not just about making progress; we're about making connections—with the text, with each other, and with God. As we share the strides in our Bible studies, now 16% through the Good Book, we also shed light on how our ministry can equip churches to feed their flocks the Bread of Life. Clear, accessible lessons, and a dedication to the consistency that keeps you engaged and enlightened, no matter where you are...
2024-05-0327 min
Reasoning Through the BibleS5 || Forming a Life of Active Faith || James 1:19-27 || Session 5Discover the remarkable transformation that awaits when you align your ears and heart with the teachings of the Bible. Glenn and Steve invite you on a spiritual expedition, guiding you to a life that resonates with your faith and actions. This session unveils the art of being "quick to hear," a biblical principle that, when embraced, can revolutionize not only our listening skills but also the way we speak and act. We tackle the often-overlooked power of the tongue and the profound changes that come with mastering self-control in our speech. Through our dialogue, the essence of true change...
2024-01-2928 minReasoning Through the BibleDivine Justice is Greater Than Earthly Power || Esther 8:1-14 || Session 11Embark on a journey with us through the twists of divine justice and earthly power plays in the Book of Esther, as we explore the remarkable narrative of faith and providence. Together, we unravel the story of Mordecai's unexpected rise to power and the downfall of Haman, an adversary whose schemes crumble in a dramatic turn of events. Our discussion not only brings to life the sovereignty of God as the ultimate protector and rewarder but also dives into the subtleties of leadership, as seen through King Ahasuerus's detached rule, and the implications it has on the fate of...
2024-01-1028 minReasoning Through the BibleA Tale of Providence and Jewish Heroism || Introduction to Esther || Session 1Ready for a riveting journey into one of the most intriguing stories in the Bible? Let us transport you back in time to the Persian Empire, where the tale of Esther unfolds amidst royalty and the reconstruction of Jerusalem. This session with Glenn and Steve becomes your gateway into the captivating narrative of the Book of Esther, enriched with themes of divine providence, free will, and the birth of a Jewish holiday. We delve into the story of Esther, a Jewish woman who ascends to queenhood and uses her clout to save her people from extinction. Despite the lack o...
2023-12-0628 minReasoning Through the BibleDiscussion of Michael Heiser's "The Unseen Realm" (Part 2) - Topical Series 15This informal discussion is about Steve and Glenn's thoughts on the author Michael Heiser and his book "The Unseen Realm." Note that this discussion is only over critical portions of Heiser's work, but provide thoughts on the strengths, weaknesses, and questions about his work. Note that this informal discussion merely provides our initial thoughts and concerns and does not pretend to be a detailed analysis of Heiser's work. Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can...
2022-12-3026 minReasoning Through the BibleDiscussion of Michael Heiser's "The Unseen Realm" (Part 1) - Topical Series 14In this informal discussion, Steve and Glenn discover the author Michael Heiser and his book "The Unseen Realm." This first part is a discussion upon first learning of Heiser and his views about the Divine Council and the possible assignment of gods to be over earthly realms. This first part is an introduction prior to examining Heiser's work. Part two includes a more detailed reaction to Heiser's position. Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB among their listeners. You can...
2022-12-2824 minReasoning Through the BibleWhat is the New Covenant? - Topical Series 8In the upper room the night before He died, Jesus took the cup and said “This is the new covenant in my blood.” But what is this new covenant? How is it different than the old covenant? This session explores what is taught in Hebrews 8 & 10 and Jeremiah 31 about this new covenant. Steve and Glenn discuss the great benefits of the new covenant to all nations, both Jew and Gentile, and the blessings we have in Christ. The new covenant is a fulfillment of something originally promised to Abraham but also mentioned in Jeremiah. Today all people can have a grea...
2022-09-2849 minReasoning Through the BibleRTTB's First Q&A SessionThis session answers several questions that we hear from our listeners and the general public. Has the Bible been translated so many times that we cannot trust it?What does the Bible say about cremation?How should we respond to Christians publically leaving the faith? What should a Christian do if there are no other Christians in their family? Have questions? Write to info@reasoningthroughthebible.com Glenn and SteveSupport the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to help your podcast provider's algorithm spread RTTB...
2022-08-1726 minReasoning Through the BibleAre You Able to Drink My Cup? (Matthew 20:20-34) - Session 41The mother of James and John come and ask Jesus if they can sit next to Him in His kingdom. Jesus asks them whether they are ready to drink the cup that He is about to drink, and the two sons think they are, showing they have a misunderstanding of God’s economy. Jesus reveals some deep truths about His relationship with the Father. In God’s kingdom, honor is given to those who serve the most. Sometimes we ask God for things and His answer to us is “You do not know what you ask.” We also meet...
2022-07-2541 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Parable of the Laborers: Is God Fair? (Matthew 20:1-19) - Session 40Jesus tells a parable of a landowner who hires day laborers at different times of the day but pays the same amount to everyone no matter how long they’ve worked. Is this fair? Before we become servants of God, are we accomplishing anything? The work that God gives us is working in His vineyard to grow fruit. In the kingdom, we are given work trying to grow fruit for the landowner. What is more important: the time we have to work or Who we’re working for? What if I wake up late and don’t have much tim...
2022-07-2232 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:13-29) - Session 39A wealthy young man approaches Jesus with a question: What good thing can I do to inherit eternal life? Many people today have the same question, and wonder what good things we must do to get right with God. Jesus has a surprising answer that tells us whether we can do good things to please God. Jesus know what is in the man’s heart, just as He knows what is in our hearts. Jesus puts His finger on exactly what the man has put between himself and God. Jesus also says that a rich man getting into heaven is...
2022-07-2042 minReasoning Through the BibleWhat Does The Bible Say About Divorce & Remarriage? (Matthew 19:1-12) - Session 38Marriages are important but sometimes arises in our lives. This session explains what the Bible says about marriage, divorce, and remarriage. We discuss these sensitive concepts at length while also dealing with the pain and real-world problems that occur in our marriages. Humans have struggles and religious leaders sometime handle these problems well and sometimes do not. We discover in this passage that people in Jesus’ day had the same questions and responses that we do. When a person gets married, how does this affect the relationship with their parents? What have been the consequences of no-fault divorce?Wha...
2022-07-1839 minReasoning Through the BibleAftermath of Church Discipline: Forgiving Seventy Times Seven (Matthew 18:19-35) - Session 37In this session we discuss the aftermath and consequences of church discipline. We also discuss the teaching of Jesus about what happens when two or three gather and pray in agreement. Will they automatically get what they pray for? Peter asks a question about how much we should forgive people, and Jesus says we should forgive seventy times seven. Jesus parable also gives us a clue as to slavery vs debtors prison and indentured servanthood. We also discuss “easy believism” and its implications. Where is the center of authority in the church? If someone is put out of a churc...
2022-07-1531 minReasoning Through the BibleChurch Discipline: How Do We Handle Those That Sin Against Us? (Matthew 18:7 - 18) - Session 36A great recurring question is how to deal with someone in the body that has sinned or gone astray. How do we respond to Christians who are sinning? Matthew 18 provides a three step process for dealing with people inside the church who need to be corrected due to a personal sin of theirs. As always, God’s ways are best and provide great wisdom in trying to win back the person while protecting the group from corruption. What is the goal of church discipline?What is the three-step process of church discipline?Why should we first approach a per...
2022-07-1339 minReasoning Through the BibleFrom the Mountaintop Down to the Valley (Matthew 17:14 - 18:6) - Session 35After the disciples have a wonderful mountaintop experience, they come down in the valley to problems that they could not fix. We also can have wonderful experiences on a spiritual mountaintop only to come back to regular life with messy human problems that we cannot fix. Jesus also tells His followers that a little bit of faith can move mountains. We also use this passage to give us clues as to Bible interpretation. Jesus also says that we must approach the kingdom like a child. What does this mean? Is God’s acting in our lives dependent on our...
2022-07-1136 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Mount of Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-13) - Session 34Jesus shows a very few of His disciples a very dramatic vision of Him shining forth in great glory. God the Father speaks from a cloud and tells them that Jesus is His Son. Jesus was clothed in humanity while on earth but here His glory shows through. Jesus shows that He is Lord over the law and the prophets. As always, when His disciples are greatly afraid, but He reaches out and touches them, calming their fears, as He still calms our fears today. What can we determine by Jesus’ glory?What details are in this passage tha...
2022-07-0836 minReasoning Through the BibleUpon This Rock I Will Build My Church (Matthew 16:18-27) - Session 33After getting a key confession from Peter, Jesus states that He will build His church upon this rock. He also tells Peter He is giving him the keys to the kingdom of heaven. In this session we discuss the rock and the keys and compare this passage in Matthew with other passages that shed light on the question of who is the rock and what are the keys. We also explain a great teaching about human free will and divine commands. What is the church? Who owns the church?Upon what will Jesus build the church?Can h...
2022-07-0639 minReasoning Through the BibleWho Do You Say That I Am? (Matthew 16:1-17) - Session 32Two Jewish factions, the Pharisees and the Sadducees, ask Jesus for a sign as evidence that He is who He claims to be. They are only looking for evidence to trap Him. As always, He challenges their assumptions and undermines their motivations. Jesus also forces a decision from the disciples by asking them who He is. This question is a major turning point in the book of Matthew where Jesus hinges His message on the disciples’ view of His identity. What was the false teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees? What do modern people say about Jesus...
2022-07-0430 minReasoning Through the BibleA Woman is Blessed by Jesus (Matthew 15:21-39) - Session 31Jesus has gone to the most remote parts of the country where the gentiles live. He encounters a woman who desperately wants Jesus to heal her daughter. Her faith in Christ ends up getting her what she desires. We also see a change in the direction in the book of Matthew where Jesus begins to move toward the gentiles. How should we view ourselves in relation to Jesus?What should we do when God tells us no? What happens when we demand our rights before God? Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a...
2022-07-0130 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Blind Following the Blind (Matthew 15:1-20) - Session 30Jesus challenges the traditions of mankind when He rejects the Pharisees’ traditions. The Jewish leaders challenge Jesus on His view of the Mishnah and He turns the tables on them. Jesus also makes a clear statement about whether the Old Testament dietary laws are still in place today. How important is taking care of our parents and family members?What does Jesus say about the condition of the human heart?What does the Bible teach about foods? Is it possible to be spiritually blind and not know it? Support the showThank you for listening!! Please...
2022-06-2932 minReasoning Through the BibleJesus Feeds the 5000 & Walks on Water (Matthew 14:13-36) - Session 29We look at Jesus multiplying of the loaves and fish to feed a great multitude. We look at both the physical act of feeding a large crowd and also look at the spiritual application of this miracle. Jesus takes a tiny bit of resources and gives it to His disciples who distribute it to the large crowd. We also see how Jesus purposely sends the disciples into a great storm so He can do a greater miracle. · Can Jesus use our meager resources?· When Jesus gives us things, is it sufficient? · What are we capable of doing w...
2022-06-2736 minReasoning Through the BibleGod's Prophet Confronts Moral Depravity (Matthew 14:1-12) - Session 28John the Baptist has his head delivered on a platter because of the depravity of the ruling family. John knew he was in the will of God, yet he loses his life because of his ministry. Being God’s prophet, John speaks against the moral actions of a political leader, which is a question for our day. Jesus called John the greatest prophet and John spoke directly about the actions of secular leadership. We take a look at all the players in the political leadership. In Herod, the lust of the eyes results in a great immoral act.
2022-06-2428 minReasoning Through the BibleFour Kingdom Parables (Matthew 13:31-58) - Session 27This session talks about four kingdom parables, the mustard seed, the leaven in the dough, the treasure hidden in a field, and the pearl of great price. These parables give us a view of what Jesus did for us. We discuss what is leaven and how it affects people in the world. We also talk about why it’s sometimes harder to talk to people close to you about spiritual things. Is it true that there will be resident evil in the church? Does the kingdom have non-believers in it or only saved people? Do non-Christians benefit from Chris...
2022-06-2226 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Parables About the End Times & The Kingdom (Matthew 13:24-52) - Session 26In this session we discuss the parable of The Wheat and the Tares (or Weeds) and the parable of the Dragnet. The parables give us practical truths for today, but also give us a chance to give an overview of what the Bible says about the end of the age. What is eschatology? We did a separate session on the Kingdom of Heaven compared to the Kingdom of God, and we expand upon that theme here in these parables. We discuss what can be known by us today and the main point of the kingdom parables. Why are t...
2022-06-2037 minReasoning Through the BibleStory Time: The Sower Went Out to Sow (Matthew 13:1-23) - Session 25Jesus begins to teach in parables, so storytelling can be a good way to communicate spiritual truths even today. Jesus’ parables are designed to make us think, and if we look at them closely we will learn the parables are quite rich in meaning. In this session Steve and Glenn discuss the parable of the sower and the soils. Fortunately Jesus gives us explanation for this and tells us what it means, which opens up many doors for valuable truths. Has Jesus already told you about how you will react to His message?What is the role of a s...
2022-06-1734 minReasoning Through the BibleWhat is the Biblical View of Mary? (Matthew 12:43-50) - Session 24In this passage Jesus talks about how people relate to demons, including what happens to people who have been delivered from demons but do not accept Jesus. We discuss the relationship between God and the demonic world and whether Christians should worry about the demonic world. This passage also talks about Mary, so we talk about the place of Jesus’ mother and His brothers and whether or not Mary holds a special place that is different than all other people. Should people today be afraid of the devil or demons? Can Christians be attacked or possessed by de...
2022-06-1530 minReasoning Through the BibleMinistry Update - Summer 2022Today's session is a departure from our normal walk through the Scriptures to provide our listeners with an update of the RTTB ministry. Some of the items this session will cover are: Reminder of the ministry goalsEncouragement to listen to multiple sessions if listening for the first timeIntroduction of our producer - ElsaAfter 5 months some questions of next areas for the ministryHow to grow listeners?Do we begin adding video?How to be added to the weekly email updateRequest for prayersSupport the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a five-star rating to he...
2022-06-1359 minReasoning Through the BibleWhat is the Unpardonable Sin? (Matthew 12:31-42) - Session 23Jesus says that blasphemy against the Holy Spirit shall not be forgiven. What does this mean? Can someone today have said something in the past that God will not forgive him for? Or is Jesus all loving and forgiving of everything? We also talk about Jesus giving the sign of Jonah and that the message of Jonah is not a fish story. Is there going to be a judgement day? What will it be like?What is the only way to stand justified before a holy and righteous God?Which prophet is greater than Jonah? If we do mor...
2022-06-1036 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Jewish Leaders Reject Jesus (Matthew 12:15-30) - Session 22Earlier Jesus only spoke to the Jews, but He now mentions the gentiles, which marks another change in His message. Jesus shows from the Old Testament that gentiles will benefit from His ministry. The people recognize the importance of Jesus being the son of David. The Pharisees attribute Jesus power to Beelzebub, or Satan, which marks the depth and severity of their rejection of Him. Who is the only person who can know someone’s thoughts?Can someone be neutral regarding Jesus? What about people who merely do not care about Jesus? Has Jesus shown Himself trustworthy, or is fa...
2022-06-0832 minReasoning Through the BibleI Desire Compassion, Not a Sacrifice (Matthew 12:1-14) - Session 21The Jewish leaders have begun to reject Jesus so Jesus begins to change His message. Jesus makes the Jewish legalists angry because of what He does on the sabbath. Keeping the sabbath was important to the Jewish leaders. Rather than learn the truth from Jesus, they follow Him and try to catch Him doing something so they could accuse Him. Legalism always lays a burden on people that is not loving nor compassionate. We learn the purpose of showbread and the priests’ responsibilitiesCan giving up things result in pleasing God?What is the purpose of the sabbath and how...
2022-06-0634 minReasoning Through the BibleWhat Would It Take for an Unbeliever to Believe? (Matthew 11:16-30) - Session 20Can Christians satisfy the criticisms that the world throws our way, or is it impossible to please them? It seems that whatever Christians do, they cannot please the skeptic and critic. Regarding the problem of evil, are the logical answers to them? How about the liberal or progressive Bible critic? We also give a brief explanation of theological systems like reformed theology, sovereign election & free, Molinism, and some of the questions around these ideas. If a skeptic were to see a true miracle, would they then be satisfied?Is there a judgement to come? Does God draw all peo...
2022-06-0334 minReasoning Through the BibleWhat Does the Bible Say About Christians Being Involved In Political & Moral Issues? (Matthew 11:1-15) - Session 19We again meet John the Baptist and discuss why he was thrown in prison and what we should do in our day with similar questions. We discuss why John sent his remaining disciples to Jesus and what to do if we have doubts. We talk about what role John the Baptist filled and where he fits into Biblical prophecy and the kingdom that he and Jesus was speaking about. How do I know whether to keep silent on moral issues or speak out and risk persecution?What should we do if we have doubts? Of what value is it...
2022-06-0134 minReasoning Through the BibleHow Can We Find Life? (Matthew 10:24-42) - Session 18“It is enough for the disciple that he become like his teacher.” Is this enough for us today? In our day, we should not expect to be treated any better than Jesus and the disciples. What happens when one member of a household has their life changed by Jesus? Jesus tells us how we can find life, which is through Him. What should you do if you think God has forgotten about you? What does Jesus mean when He says He came to separate family members? What does it mean for us to carry our cross? What message should we...
2022-05-3028 minReasoning Through the BibleGo to the Lost Sheep: Jesus Sends His Disciples (Matthew 10:5-23) - Session 17In this session we learn a principle of interpreting the book of Matthew that will help us determine which teaching of Jesus are for the current day and which are for a future age and why Matthew sometimes has one passage that mixes different types of instructions to different people and different eras. Jesus tells His apostles to be wise as serpents but harmless as doves, a lesson that is important for us today. Why would Jesus send out His disciples only to Israel?Why were the disciples sent out without money or extra supplies?Why would God pu...
2022-05-2735 minReasoning Through the BibleChoosing and Sending the Apostles (Matthew 10:1-7) - Session 16In this session Jesus selects His twelve apostles. We learn about the twelve as a cross-section of society and discuss how many of the apostles are similar to us. This session explains how Jesus gives these men the power to do miracles and sends them out with a message. We discuss the role of apostles and how being an apostle is a special office that can only be chosen by Jesus. Did Jesus pick Judas knowing he would be His betrayer? In our day, does God still pick people today for a purpose? Do we have the office of...
2022-05-2528 minReasoning Through the BibleA Suffering Woman Touches the Hem of His Garment (Matthew 9:14-38) - Session 15This session discusses fasting and also explains the parable of the new wine in the new wineskins. We meet a woman who has an issue of blood that sees Jesus as her only hope. Even though he is busy, He notices a woman on a spiritual level and heals her in a deeply personal way. Jesus once again shows His deity by accepting worship, then raising a dead girl and healing blind men. Jesus will fix us on the inside if we only get close and touch Him. What is the purpose of fasting?Did Jesus come to p...
2022-05-2332 minReasoning Through the BibleWho is This Man That He Can Forgive Sins? (Matthew 9:1-13) - Session 14Sin has a paralyzing effect on people. Jesus can heal the physical paralysis, but He also heals the greater problem which is sin. Because Jesus can heal the physical body then He shows He can also forgive our sins and heal our spirit. This session also looks at the calling of the disciples and shows that when Jesus asks us, we need to respond immediately. How does Jesus respond to the faith of a friend? Can our faith cause healing? If Jesus would have healed the body but not the soul, would it have helped?When God calls to u...
2022-05-2027 minReasoning Through the BibleJesus Has Power Over All Creation (Matthew 8:14-34) - Session 13Jesus demonstrates that He has power over disease, demons, and the natural world. The Pharisees never challenged whether Jesus actually did the miracles because there were so many. Jesus shows that He is clearly in charge over all creation. Following Jesus will result in great cost and great benefit. Are Christians guaranteed to have health and wealth? Should we wait until we have our life in order before following God?How rich was Jesus? What does it mean for us to follow Jesus? Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a fiv...
2022-05-1836 minReasoning Through the BibleHe Touched Him: Jesus Heals a Leper (Matthew 8:1-13) - Session 12Matthew presents a series of miracles that demonstrate His deity and truth of His messages. Jesus heals a leper and then heals the servant of a Roman centurion. These miracles are for a purpose and we learn great truths. All people are in an unclean state before God, but if Jesus cleanses us and reaches out and touches us we will be changed forever. What is leprosy and what does it represent in the Bible?What authority does Jesus have?Are there similarities between the lowest and highest levels of society? Who are the sons of the kingdom an...
2022-05-1642 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Narrow Gate to Life & Beware of False Prophets (Matthew 7:13-28) - Session 11Jesus tells us that the way to life is narrow but there is a broad way that leads to destruction. He warns us against false teachers, false believers, and cautions us to look for the one true way. The Bible tells us to recognize that there are false paths before us in the form of false churches and false teachings. Are there many spiritual paths that are all valid?Are there people in churches who are not true believers? How do we tell if a person is a true Christian or a wolf in sheep’s clothing?What make...
2022-05-1339 minReasoning Through the BibleDo Not Worry but Be Comforted (Matthew 6:25 – 7:12) - Session 10Jesus tells us to not worry about our life or food or clothing. Many times we worry about things that never come to pass. Jesus tells us to trust Him and not worry. But how can we do this? How can we not let worry overwhelm us? God takes care of His creation, so He will take care of us. If we seek His kingdom and His righteousness, God will take care of all the earthly things. We also discuss what Jesus means when He says get the log out of our eye and “Judge not that you be no...
2022-05-1139 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Lord’s Prayer: Our Model for Praying (Matthew 6:9-24) - Session 9Jesus gives us an example of how we should pray. This session discusses how we should pray, showing us that prayer does not have to be difficult but rather a conversation with a loving Lord. We discuss the problem with meaningless repetition and compare rote memorization with meaningful conversation with God. We also discuss fasting and laying up treasures. How are we to pray?Should we memorize and repeat the Lord’s Prayer? Can physical fasting be of spiritual benefit? How can we lay up treasure? Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a fi...
2022-05-0935 minReasoning Through the BibleHow Can We Live to God’s Perfect Standard? (Matthew 6:1-8) - Session 8We review the purpose for the Sermon on the Mount and how individual people should interact with it. What were Jesus’ first teachings and how does that give context to the Sermon on the Mount? In this session we begin to go through the specific commands Jesus gives on how to live life and follow God. How do we evaluate Christian ministers?How should Christian ministries handle giving?How should private and public prayers be different? If God knows what we need, why should we pray? Support the showThank you for listening!! Please give us a...
2022-05-0629 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Sermon on the Mount: Jesus Presents God’s Perfect Standard (Matthew 5:13-48) - Session 7Jesus talks about darkness and light, what the light of the world is, and what we should do with our light. In this chapter Jesus is taking the ten commandments and using them to show us how far short we fall from God’s perfect standard. We discuss the benefits of spreading the light of Jesus to a dark world. What is the best light for a dark world? What does it mean to be salt and light? Is the Mosaic Law in place today? How serious does God view sin and righteousness? What does Jesus teach about divorce? ...
2022-05-0442 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Beatitudes: Can I Live to This Standard? (Matthew 5:1-12) - Session 6This session begins one of the most important and beautiful sections of the Bible, the sermon the mount. The first section is called the beatitudes because it has the great blessings of Christ to His followers. Are we expected to be able to live the commands of the sermon on the mount today or are the teachings for a future time period? What are the various ways to look at the sermon on the mount? Can we live the ethic presented in Matthew 5 to 7? Is the sermon on the mount for today? Are we able to follow Jesus’ comm...
2022-05-0228 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Temptation of Christ (Matthew 4) - Session 5This session discusses the interaction that Jesus had with the devil and how He resisted temptation. Jesus was tempted just as we are, yet He is without sin. Jesus gives us an example of how to resist the temptations of the evil one. We discuss Jesus’ fasting, the subtleties of temptation, how Jesus responded to the temptations, and what lessons we can learn from Jesus’ example. We also get a major change in the book of Matthew that teaches us some things about the kingdom that Jesus is proclaiming. What is the purpose of fasting? What should we do when...
2022-04-2938 minReasoning Through the BibleJesus has Both Love and Wrath (Matthew 3:7-17) - Session 4In this session we meet John the Baptist and discuss his message and those who were listening to him. We discuss the theological distinctions between these groups, John’s blunt statements to the leaders, our attitudes about sin and repentance, and John’s message about judgement and coming wrath. The prophets predicted both God’s wrath and God’s love and mercy. Jesus is presented as identifying with us in every way, including our physical earthly situation. Are there modern-day Pharisees and Sadducees?Can someone be a true Christian without showing the fruit of repentance? Does Jesus ever do unpleasa...
2022-04-2730 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Announcement of the King (Matthew 2:13 – 3:6) - Session 3What are we to think about people getting messages in dreams? This session discusses how to tell what to do with messages we get outside the Bible, including dreams, and how many prophecies did Jesus fulfill when He was born. This session also discusses the details of the stories surrounding the birth of Christ. Does God speak to people in dreams today? What about the modern messages people get from Mary? Were the accounts around Jesus’ birth accurate historically? Does God provide guidance to those who follow Him? Support the showThank you for listening!! Please gi...
2022-04-2535 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Birth of the King (Matthew 1:18 – 2:12) - Session 2This session discusses the details around the birth of Jesus including Joseph and Mary. Matthew begins to show how Jesus fulfilled prophecy, Jesus name and background is important. We discuss how Jesus was fully human but without a sin nature and how Jesus has two natures, both divine and human, and how this gives Jesus the ability to be a mediator between God and mankind. What is the main reason Jesus came to earth?What is the importance of the virgin birth? Who were the Magi (Wise Men)?What does fulfilled prophecy tell us about the messiah? Suppo...
2022-04-2235 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Introduction of the Son of David (Matthew 1:1-17) - Session 1We begin the book showing how Jesus filled the role of King of Israel. This session discusses the conditions in Israel when Jesus was born and God’s big promises to Israel. We trace many of the passages where Jesus is called the Son of David and the passages where the Bible speaks of the covenants to Abraham, Moses, and David. How did Jesus fulfill the Davidic and Abrahamic covenants? What are the purposes for the genealogy and what can it tell us? Can we trust God to keep His promises? Are God’s promises to Israel still in place? ...
2022-04-2034 minReasoning Through the BibleIntroduction and Overview to the Gospels - Topical Session 4What are the distinctions in the gospels? Why are there four gospels instead of just one? Who wrote them and can we trust their writings? What does the term “gospel” mean and why is it important to us? When were the gospels written? How long was it between the events of Jesus and when they were written down?Who were the intended audiences for the gospels? Were the gospels anonymous, or how can we be sure who wrote them? Is there a synoptic problem? In this session we discuss all these questions and conclude that we can trust the gospel accou...
2022-04-1852 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Kingdom of Heaven vs. The Kingdom of God in the Gospels - Topical Session 3The New Testament uses two similar phrases, but is there a difference between the “kingdom of heaven” and the “kingdom of God?” Does it make a difference? In this session we discuss the evidence that shows there is a difference, then discuss several Bible passages that use the terms to see what they say. We also discuss whether the kingdom is an internal spiritual state or a physical earthly kingdom that God will set up in the future. This session takes Jesus’ words and compares them to bring out some very important nuances. Several topics are discussed including dispensationalism, amillenniali...
2022-04-151h 03Reasoning Through the BibleThe Redeemer Gives Blessings from Heaven || Ruth 4:1-22 || Session 5The book of Ruth opens with Naomi and Ruth destitute and grieving but ends with Boaz showering blessings upon them. Likewise, we start life sinful and destitute but God notices us and Jesus romances us into a relationship with Him that ends in Him showering blessings upon us. Ruth starts the book with no future, but because she fully trusted the God of Israel, she is gifted with a future heritage that is more than she could have imagined. Boaz does things the right way just as Christ does things the right way. What does it mean when w...
2022-04-1328 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Kinsman Redeemer || Ruth 3:1-18 || Session 4We learn the details of the Kinsman Redeemer and the importance of that role in God’s plan. Boaz has been wooing Ruth and Naomi begins to play matchmaker. Ruth lays at the feet of Boaz and asks him to take care of her, which he is very willing to do. Love wins and Boaz promises to take care of Ruth’s future. Boaz and Ruth illustrate the relationship of Jesus with His bride the church. We see Ruth being pursued by Boaz, just like God pursues us. How does God keep families together?Can we earn a relati...
2022-04-1128 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Sacred Romance || Ruth 2:5-23 || Session 3We are introduced to fun romantic story that illustrates The Sacred Romance where the Christ figure, Boaz, notices Ruth and the love story begins. We learn of the responsibility of redeeming those who have no hope and ensuring they have a future and a heritage. We see Ruth as a virtuous woman who works diligently and Boaz as a protector of Ruth just like our great protector shows favor to us. What does the Bible teach about race and nationality? How should we take care of the least advantaged in our midst?Can we trust in the providence of...
2022-04-0824 minReasoning Through the BibleYour God Shall Be My God ||Ruth 1:15 – 2:4 || Session 2We see Ruth totally commits herself to her mother-in-law Naomi and the God of Israel, which makes all the difference. Naomi declares herself bitter at the loss of her entire family. She does not see the great reward that God has in store. Ruth trusts completely in God without knowing what the future will bring. Ruth is “all in” for God and shuts the door behind her. We also learn of God’s way of taking care of the poor and how societies should take care of those in need. Does God always recognize those who turn Him? What value...
2022-04-0629 minReasoning Through the BibleThe Death of Family Members Leaves People in Grief || Ruth 1:1-14 || Session 1One central theme of the Bible is the idea that Jesus redeemed us by giving Himself for us. Perhaps the greatest illustration of what Jesus did for us is the story of Ruth and Boaz. The book of Ruth has a romantic love story that explains one of the most important doctrines in the entire Bible. The book of Ruth includes kindness, love, rest, God’s providence, and redemption. This first session talks about the grief and tragedy of the death of a spouse and children and one of our hosts gives a personal testimony of what hap...
2022-04-0433 minReasoning Through the BibleS18 || Everyone Does What is Right in Their Own Eyes || Judges 20:1 – 21:25 || Session 18While Israel is rightfully shocked at the woman’s murder, the tribe of Benjamin would rather have a civil war than to turn over rapists and murderers to justice. These sins cause the deaths of tens of thousands of people. Israel makes a foolish vow and tries to get away with silly technicalities with vows to God. Is there a limit to how depraved humans can get? What should you do when you’re doing what the Lord wants but still failing?Can God allow pain for a purpose? Can we deal with God as with a shady busines...
2022-04-0128 minReasoning Through the BibleS17 || Religious Disobedience Leads to a Woman’s Murder || Judges 18:16 – 19:30 || Session 17We meet a paid religious leader who is mainly interested in getting a larger congregation. We meet people of Israel that continue in disobedience by setting up idols in the center of the city. All the while no one is asking for God’s guidance or forgiveness. A woman gets raped to death then dismembered, a crime that shows the depth of disobedience of Israel, who is in full-blown disobedience and is doing what is right in their own eyes. Is church growth measured in numbers of people? Can a child of God can be distracted from the Lord...
2022-03-3029 min