Reasoning Through the Bible

Ever pondered the ripple effects of Adam's sin or questioned how it could possibly influence your life today? Prepare for a theological odyssey that examines the topic of sin, individual accountability, and the deep-seated implications of The Federal Headship of Adam—the doctrine that through Adam's transgression, all of humanity has inherited a sin nature. In our latest episode, we dissect this complex Biblical reasoning and Pelagianism, a view historically rejected by the church for its assertion that humans are born with a clean moral slate. Join us for a thought-provoking session that explain this important Christian doctrine. 

You can listen to the full session here - https://www.buzzsprout.com/1892337/13110350 

Could the decisions you make in this life determine your fate for eternity? Prepare to confront the profound questions of heaven, hell, and what lies beyond as we unpack the Bible’s narrative on the afterlife. Our latest episode strips away centuries of misconceptions, journeying into the heart of Revelation to investigate the polarizing doctrines of eternal worship and eternal punishment. Focusing on scripture, we shine a light on the celestial realm centered on Jesus, while wrestling with the thorny implications of hell's existence—its purpose, its justice, and the nature of a God who designed it.

This session isn't just an academic exercise; it's an invitation to reflect on our own beliefs about Jesus, the reasons behind widespread resistance to Him, and the stark contrasts between the destinies of believers and non-believers. We navigate through verses from Daniel, Isaiah, Matthew, and Luke, constructing a vivid image of the afterlife that is as unsettling as it is reassuring for those who embrace the Christian faith. What emerges from our dialogue is not just a clearer picture of Scriptural heaven and hell but an urgent call for introspection about where each of us stands in relation to these eternal truths. Join us as we examine these topics not only with scholarly rigor but with a heart seeking understanding.

Ever wondered how the trials of life can lead to divine crowns of glory? Our latest episode examines the profound symbolism of crowns in the Bible and their promise as future rewards for our perseverance. We unpack the message in James 1:12-15 where the crown of life beckons, not as an immediate token of salvation, but as an anticipated accolade for those steadfast in faith. Discover the stark difference between the assurance of salvation and the earnable crowns that embody a life lived in obedience to God. Navigating through the murky waters of temptation and sin, we venture beyond the surface into a conversation about the very nature of Christ—both fully divine and inherently human. We dissect the origins of temptation, illustrating how it sprouts from within and how God's wisdom is key to transforming our desires. Learn how embracing God's word can shield us from the snares of sin and lead us to spiritual victory. Join us on this intellectually and spiritually enriching journey through the Book of James, with more discussions to come.

Ever wondered how we can understand our various trials of life? Well James says we should ask confidently of God for wisdom in times of trials. Together, we navigate James 1:5-8, dissecting the scripture's assurance that when we ask for divine wisdom with unwavering faith, it is bestowed upon us without reservation. The wisdom we should seek however, goes beyond mere knowledge acquisition; it's an expedition into understanding the purpose of adversity and the spiritual maturation it's designed to engender.  Whether you're wrestling with trials, seeking wisdom, or reevaluating your perspective on your salvation, this episode promises a fresh viewpoint, cemented in the eternal rather than the temporal. Join us for this thought-provoking journey as we continue to Reason Through the Bible, seeking a life of wisdom and humility.

Prepare to have your spiritual understanding deepened as we scrutinize whether souls truly require further purification post-mortem or if the Apostle Paul's messages in Colossians assure us of complete sanctification through Jesus Christ alone. Our conversation illuminates the contrast between the Roman Catholic doctrine of a need for a purifying in the afterlife and the New Testament's affirmations of believers' immediate sanctity in Jesus.  We bring home the message that believers stand reconciled and holy before God, not by their own merit but by their unity with Christ. As we journey through this theological discussion, we invite you to join us on Reasoning Through the Bible, where we seek to immerse ourselves in the transformative power of God's Word, embracing our identity as blameless in His sight through our relationship with Jesus.

This is an excerpt from our study of the Book of Colossians, Session 14 

Have you ever considered that your most challenging moments could be your greatest source of joy? That's the transformative perspective James offers as we navigate the profound teachings of the book of James.  James's letter to the dispersed Jewish believers is a beacon of hope, guiding us to serve with a sense of purposeful dedication. We reflect deeply on our own commitments and the nature of serving to the glory of God, examining the threads that intertwine our dedication with the divine bond shared between the Father and Jesus Christ.  Through personal anecdotes and scriptural insight, we illuminate the path to practical wisdom, helping you find the joy in your trials and the strength to face life's complexities with a fortified faith. So, tune in, as we share not just theological musings but also the actionable teachings of James that can reshape your daily walk with the Lord.

Discover with us the rich tapestry of Christian wisdom woven into the book of James.  We're not talking about a distant, dusty relic; we're exploring a living message that speaks directly to the heart of everyday faith.  This isn't your average life application; it's a masterclass in applying spiritual truths to the nitty-gritty of a believer's daily existence. But don't be fooled by the simplicity of James's teachings. There's a profound depth here, echoing Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, that calls us to consider the strength and authenticity of our own faith in the face of adversity.

Wrap up your experience with us as we celebrate the Bible's incredible diversity, a testament to the multifaceted wisdom it holds. Every book, every author brings a unique flavor to the banquet of biblical study, and James is no exception. It's like uncovering a treasure chest where every piece, from gold to precious stones, offers insight into how to navigate the complexities of life while staying true to one's convictions. Join us as we continue to seek the truths hidden within the scriptures, inviting you into a conversation that's as enriching as it is enlightening.

Can the existence of God withstand the scrutiny of modern logic? We launch a new series with this session called "Reasoning with God and Faith for Thinking People", where Glenn takes the lead on Apologetics of the Christian Faith topics.  In today's session Glenn walks through a logical demonstration for God by describing "The Vertical Cosmological Argument."  Prepare to challenge your convictions as Glenn presents a compelling analogy that will make even the staunchest skeptics pause.  The discussion respectfully counters atheist arguments, inviting an open and dynamic discourse for all, whether you're a believer seeking affirmation or a curious skeptic grappling with doubt. This episode promises to leave you with a renewed perspective on the timeless debate surrounding divine presence and the cosmos. Join us in this intellectual exploration and contribute your thoughts to this ongoing inquiry.

Embark on a journey through the gripping finale of the Book of Esther, where despair gives way to exultation and the unseen hand of providence orchestrates a joyous deliverance. As the plot thickens, we immerse ourselves in the heart of the story where faith is no longer concealed but flourishes openly, drawing others towards the light. The reversal from Haman's dark decree to the Jews' authoritative call to arms showcases the magnitude of God's protective embrace.  Join us as we unwrap the layers of this Biblical narrative, revealing how the inauguration of Purim became a beacon of hope and celebration for the Jewish people. The tapestry of Persian royalty is more than a backdrop; it's a testament to God's sovereignty as we witness the elevation of Mordecai, the downfall of Haman, and the unfolding of divine justice that led to an unexpected surge in the Jewish populace. Concluding our exploration, we scrutinize the resilience of the Jews throughout history, connecting their triumphs to the power of divine intervention. 

Embark 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 the Jewish people. Cap off this enlightening exploration with us as we highlight the enduring relevance of the Old Testament to our modern faith journey. Drawing striking parallels between the story of Esther and the core tenets of Christian belief, we unveil the timeless nature of God's word. The wisdom found in the Old Testament is not just historical footnotes but a vibrant source of guidance, full of lessons on faith, righteousness, and salvation that are as powerful today as they were in the days of Esther and Mordecai. Join Glenn and Steve, as we navigate these sacred texts, seeking the treasures they hold for guiding our spiritual paths in the contemporary world.

How would you act in the face of adversity? Would you crumble, or would you rise, like Queen Esther who confronted her enemy, Haman, with unwavering bravery? Join us as we dig deeper into this remarkable tale from the Old Testament, where we see the downfall of Haman, a man led astray by pride and hatred. Through the lens of Haman's poor decisions, we see what happens when an evil plan to annihilate the Jewish people comes undone.  Listen as we unravel these dramatic events and see the divine hand of providence at work in ways you'd least expect.

Prepare to be captivated as we explore life-changing wisdom from the Book of Esther. Delving into topics of God's providence, pride, humility, and self-centeredness, we navigate through an enthralling narrative that is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. The episode unfolds with Haman’s humiliating downfall, offering a stark reminder of the consequences of arrogance and the importance of humility. Ever wondered how your circumstances, even the seemingly insignificant ones, are part of a grand design? Be ready for an enlightening exploration that promises to encourage, challenge, and inspire you.

Ever wondered how to react when faith collides with danger? In this podcast episode, we traverse the story of Queen Esther, a woman who deftly navigated the royal court under the looming threat of death. She embodies the essence of courage and faith, daring to approach a volatile King, risking her life for a greater cause. This is not a tale of chance, but an illustration of divine providence at work, emphasizing the significance of trusting God even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Have you ever grappled with the age-old question - how can a benevolent God allow the persistence of evil? Come join us as we explore this complex theological question, as seen through the prism of the book of Esther. We'll navigate the tapestry of God's master plan, weaving together the seemingly disjointed threads of our circumstances into a purposeful design. We examine the Jewish people's response to a terrifying decree and draw parallels to our own lives, encouraging a steadfast trust in God's providence, even when it appears shrouded in mystery.  So come, walk with us through the astounding story of Esther, and remind yourself of God's unwavering promises and His deliverance in the direst of circumstances.

Discover the origins of Christmas as we unwrap (pun intended) the holiday's rich history and address the long-debated question: Did Christmas begin as a pagan festival? Our festive foray cuts through the tinsel to provide clarity on how December 25th became the cornerstone of Christian celebration.  We share how scriptural verses about bringing trees into a home are misinterpreted and set the record straight on Martin Luther's influence, which transformed this evergreen into a symbol of celebrating Jesus' birth. Join us for an episode that not only offers historical insights but also a heartwarming reminder to keep the Lord Jesus at the center of our Christmas festivities.

Prepare to journey back in time as we continue to unravel the complex tapestry of the Book of Esther from the Old Testament. Ever wondered about the confluence of chance and divine providence in our lives? This episode peels back the layers of the story, revealing how seemingly coincidental events manifest God's guiding hand. We scrutinize the perplexing contrast between a tranquil king and a city in turmoil, and ponder the significance of the need for good leadership. We end this episode on a hopeful note, affirming God's promise to safeguard His people. So, buckle up for an engaging conversation that brings the Old Testament to life, reminding us of God's unseen hand in our lives.

Daring to challenge civil obedience for the sake of following God - are you ready to grapple with this conundrum? In this animated discussion, we dive into the riveting story where Mordecai refuses to bow down to Haman, sparking off a litany of events that resonate with today's conflicts between civil obedience and Godly principles. As we navigate this intriguing narrative, we touch on the escalating darkness in the world around us, and the increasingly difficult decisions that Christians face when the lines between the law of the land and the law of God come into conflict. 

From the pride and hatred that fuels Haman's intentions, to Mordecai's steadfast principles that remain unshaken in the face of adversity, we dissect the characters and the tensions that color this fascinating story. We consider the long history of anti-Semitism, the unfairness of Haman's plan to annihilate an entire race because of one man's refusal to bow, and marvel at the way God uses unfair circumstances for His purposes. As we uncover this compelling narrative, we invite you to reflect on the challenges and decisions that Christians may face in a turbulent world, urging you to remain resolute in faith, even in the face of adversity.

Do you often wonder how God works His will in questionable or sinful situations? Does His divine providence come into play even in the most unexpected circumstances and through the most unlikely people?  We'll grapple with these profound questions and explore how God's hand was at work, despite the sinful people and circumstances surrounding Esther.  We'll marvel at how seemingly random events fall in line with God's grand plan, emphasizing the importance of faith in His control and guidance in our lives. We'll also challenge our understanding of God's righteousness and His use of even the most unlikely situations to fulfill His purpose. Finally, we explore how God can use the worst of circumstances and sinful situations to accomplish His purpose. 

Imagine expanding your knowledge of the Bible while playing a part in a mission that reaches countless hearts worldwide. You'll be thrilled to hear the exhilarating news we have to share about our ministry's growth, the doubling of our listenership, and the introduction of video content. However, these leaps forward come with a plea for your generous support. We need you to help us cover the editing costs that improve quality and distribution.  We've got ambitious plans to triple our audio downloads and bring the Word of God to more people. But we can't effectively do this without your help—whether through donations, prayers, or sharing our podcast with others. We're also excited to announce the launch of our upcoming prayer line in addition to the weekly email newsletter. And who knows, you might even find yourself chuckling at Glenn's lighthearted jokes. 

Ready to embark on a fascinating journey through the lesser-explored book of Esther? This episode promises a deep dive into the complex characters and riveting storyline, and more importantly, how God's providence orchestrates even the most selfish of human intentions for a grand purpose. We'll challenge the concept of fatalistic determinism and how it contrasts starkly with God's active providence evident in Esther's life. We'll tackle Mordecai's genealogy, the whisperings of a Saul connection, and the controversy surrounding his ancestors' exile. Get ready to appreciate God’s ability of using imperfect people, just like Esther and like us, as we continue enjoying our time Reasoning Through the Bible!