It Means What It Means

In this conversation, Sara Koenig discusses her book The Ten Commandments Through the Ages, focusing on the concept of reception history, which examines how biblical texts have been interpreted over time. She explores the differences in the presentation of the Ten Commandments in Exodus and Deuteronomy, the implications of apodictic and casuistic laws, and the relevance of these commandments in contemporary American law. The discus...

Authors Marissa Burt and Kelsey Kramer McGinnis discuss their book, The Myth of Good Christian Parenting, exploring the ideologies underlying Christian parenting advice, the impact of cultural narratives, and the importance of empathy and understanding in parenting. They delve into the historical context of parenting books, the role of translation in biblical texts, and the evolving conversation around children's rights and parenta...

Eric Harvey discusses his recent work on creation myths, divine service, and the economic implications of ancient religious practices. He explores the differences between Mesopotamian and biblical narratives, particularly in terms of sacrifice and the needs of the divine. The discussion highlights the complexity of ancient texts and the importance of understanding them within their cultural context. Resources included mentioned in ...

Jennie Grillo, an Associate Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame, discusses her insights on divine embodiment in the Hebrew Bible, particularly in relation to the work of Benjamin Sommer. The conversation explores the complexities of how God is represented in biblical texts, the significance of embodiment, and the implications of time in understanding these representations. Grillo emphasizes the fluidity of divine ...

In this conversation, Brian Walsh and Sylvia Keesmaat (of Russet House Farm) discuss their book Colossians Remixed: Subverting the Empire. In the book they explore the themes of inevitability and possibility through the lens of biblical narratives. They also emphasize the importance of living with hope and the belief that God can make the impossible possible, urging listeners to embrace a future of reconciliation and new beginnings...

David Basher discusses his research on the biblical text of 1 Samuel 16, focusing on the concept of ghosts and evil spirits in the ancient Near East. He explains the story of Saul, who is tormented by an evil spirit after being rejected as king, and explores various interpretations of Saul's condition, including psychological and supernatural explanations. The discussion also touches on the role of music in healing, the historical ...

Kirk MacGregor discusses his Journal of Biblical Literature article “The Pro-Choice Biblical Ethic of American Evangelical Scholars before the Religious Right.” MacGregor’s article is focused on understanding the historical context of and changes since the 1968 Protestant Symposium on the Control of Human Reproduction. Resources mentioned or recommended in this episode include MacGregor’s book A Historical and Theological Investiga...

Alexiana Fry discusses her recent article from The Journal of Biblical Literature, “Don’t Feel It, Don’t Heal It: Ezekiel 24:15-27 and Divine Dissociation.” The discussion explores cultural constructs of grief, the role of authority in mourning, and the implications of dissociation as a coping mechanism. Fry emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief and healing in the context of trauma, while also recommending further readin...

Things are looking good for the podcast in 2026! I have been fortunate enough to record nine interviews before the year has even started!!! Enjoy these previews from:

1. Jonathan Sedlak: Reading Matthew, Trusting Jesus: Christian Tradition and First-Century Fulfillment within Matthew 24-25

2. Sara Koenig: The Ten Commandments through the Ages

3. Marissa Franks Burt & Kelsey Kramer...

Douglas Campbell discusses his journey through theology, focusing on the interpretation of Paul's letters, particularly Romans. He emphasizes the importance of rereading Romans 1-3 with greater emphasis on the overarching themes of love and grace found in the later chapters. Campbell critiques the traditional interpretations that lean towards a punitive understanding of God and advocates for a view of God as fundamentally loving an...

Peter Altmann and Caio Peres discuss their commentary on the Book of Numbers from the Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries. They explore the significance of biblical commentaries, the diverse perspectives brought by authors from different cultural backgrounds, and the importance of understanding the complexities of biblical texts. The conversation delves into themes such as the relevance of Numbers for contemporary faith communities,...

Mark Goodacre discusses his expertise in New Testament studies, focusing on the synoptic gospels and their interrelations. He challenges common misconceptions about the term 'synoptic' and emphasizes the importance of literary production over oral tradition in understanding the gospels. Goodacre argues for Markan priority and explores the unique theological perspectives and literary styles of each gospel writer. He also delves into...

Stacia Deutsch, a children's book author and rabbi, shares her insights on Hanukkah, exploring its history, traditions, and significance in Jewish culture. She discusses the origins of Hanukkah, the miracle of the oil, and how the holiday has evolved into a time of celebration and community. Stacia also highlights the importance of charity during Hanukkah and the various cultural practices associated with the holiday. The conversat...

Evan Vossman shares insights into the Hebrew Bible and the complexities of biblical interpretation. He also delves into the documentary hypothesis, the role of ideology in biblical texts, and how to engage with scripture in a meaningful way. You can access his zine, Tour of the Torah, here. Other resources mentioned or recommended in this episode include E Theodore Mullen, RN Whybray, The SBL Study Bible, David M Carr, Peter Enns,...

Jennifer Houston McNeel sit down with Jared to talk about her book Under Her Wings: Mothers and Motherhood in the New Testament. She explores the use of maternal language, the cultural context of Greco-Roman family values, and the significance of women in biblical genealogies. The discussion also touches on the theological implications of motherhood and the role of Mary in the incarnation, highlighting how these themes resonate wit...

Greg Carey, a New Testament scholar, discusses his book Rereading Revelation: Theology, Ethics, and Resistance. He brings his unique insights on the book of Revelation, its apocalyptic nature, and its implications for understanding Jesus and early Christian communities. He emphasizes the importance of reading Revelation as a Jewish text, the symbolism of the Lamb versus the Lion, and the ethical challenges posed by its violent imag...

William Owens discusses his chapter “Literary Constructions and Stereotypes of Slavery” from the book Ancient Slavery and Its New Testament Contexts. He also discusses his academic journey and insights into the literary constructions of slavery in ancient texts. He emphasizes the importance of reading against the grain to uncover the voices of the enslaved and critiques the stereotypes and power dynamics present in these narratives...

Samuel Wells is back to discuss his book Power and Passion: Six Characters in Search of Resurrection! The book in an exploration of the intertwining themes of power, passion, and resurrection through the lens of biblical characters. Wells emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the methodology of Lectio Divina in understanding scripture. The discussion also delves into the political implications of these themes in con...

Gad Barnea discusses his research on Achaemenid Zoroastrianism and its connections to early Yahwism. He explores the historical context of Zoroastrianism, its cultic practices, and the assimilation of deities in ancient religions. Barnea also highlights significant artifacts, such as ostraca, that provide insights into the religious practices of the time. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these ancient belie...