Today, I'll be tackling another Bible story.

The tale starts with Jesus on his way to Galilee with his disciples. At lunchtime, he stops in Samaritan territory.

The disciples traveling with him go to town to buy food while Jesus takes a break near a well.

Suddenly, a Samaritan woman comes to the well where Jesus is resting. 

When he sees her, he asks her for water. 

What happens after? And how does the story end?

Tune in now to find out!

Key points discussed

How the story begins (00:42)

Jesus rests at a well (02:56)

An awkward situation (04:53)

The Samaritan's interest is piqued (08:49)

A sudden change of subject (10:06)

A debate between Jews and Samaritans (13:11)

The disciples return (15:58)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

In today's podcast, I'll be telling and analyzing the story of Nicodemus’ conversation with Jesus.

Not many know this tale, but it is as interesting and as riveting as any of the Bible's more famous ones.

The story starts with Nicodemus, a ruler in Israel, going to Jesus at night. He wanted answers to his questions about the signs performed by him.

What was Jesus' answer?

Tune in now to find out.

Key points discussed

How the story begins (01:34)

“He came by night…” (03:08)

Jesus' answer (07:35)

Nicodemus doesn't believe (11:25)

Jesus invokes scripture again (16:08)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today's episode is not a usual one. I won't be recounting a popular Bible tale or analyzing an infamous character.

Instead, I'll be answering your most burning questions.

Yes, it's time for another Q&A!!

I hope you're excited, because many of you have been sending me questions and I've decided it's high time we discussed some of them.

Today, I'll be answering two questions from you: "Was Israel monotheistic?" and "Is the God of the Old Testament the same as the God of the New Testament?"

Ready to hear the answers?

Let's dive in!

Key points discussed

It's Q&A time! (00:47)

Was Israel monotheistic? (00:56)

Is the God of the Old Testament the same as the God of the New Testament? (09:47)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today's story is not as famous as the one I discussed in the last few episodes. However, it is just as thrilling, and just as interesting.

This week’s tale is about King Ahab and Queen Jezebel's scheme to rob Naboth's vineyard.

The story starts with the royals eyeing Naboth's vineyard. King Ahab tries to buy it from him, but Naboth refuses. 

However, Queen Jezebel does not accept Naboth's rebuff. In fact, she decides she'll just confiscate his land and have him executed for a false crime.

And she does just that.

What are the consequences of her act?

Find out the answer in today's episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew!

Key points discussed

An interesting cast of characters (00:50)

How the story starts (01:18)

The queen gets to work (05:20)

God speaks to Elijah (08:53)

God's judgment (10:52)

Ahab is remorseful (14:23)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

In today's episode, we continue where we left off last week.

If you remember well — and if you haven't listened to last week's episode, I invite you to do so —, last week's episode was about the story of Moses and the burning bush.

Moses is in Hebron when he encounters a burning bush that doesn't seem to be consumed by the fire.

God speaks to him through the bush, telling Moses about his plans to rescue the people of Israel and of Moses' role in all of it.

Moses doesn't want the responsibility, and starts making excuse after excuse, angering God.

What happens after God disregards all of Moses’ excuses?

I discuss just that in today’s episode, so tune in now to find out!

Are you ready?

Let's dive in!

Key points discussed

Picking up from last week's episode (00:43)

Moses' fourth excuse (01:34)

Moses returns to Egypt (04:41)

Something bizarre happens (10:47)

God spares Moses (14:06)

Moses performs miracles (15:59)

Let's analyze the story (17:18)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

In last week's episode, I discussed and analyzed the story of Moses, the Israelites, and the golden calf.

Though one of the most famous tales in the Bible, it isn't as famous as the one I'll be talking about today: Moses and the burning bush.

For those of you not familiar with the famous event, here's a quick summary:

While in Hebron, Moses encounters a bush that is burning but not being consumed. God speaks to Moses from the bush and lets him know of his plans to rescue the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, and explains how Moses is part of the plan. 

What happens after?

Let's find out together!

Key points discussed

The story begins (01:15)

An angel suddenly appears! (03:26)

God's plan for the Israelites (07:51)

Excuse after excuse (11:19)

God gets into the specifics (14:33)

Moses is still not persuaded (18:00)

A quick summary (21:35)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

As always, today, I'll be discussing a story from the Bible.

Like the tales I've talked about before, this one is not as straightforward as you might think. It's full of hidden meanings, and that's exactly what I'll be diving into.

So, what's today's story about?

Well, none other than Israel, Moses, and the golden calf.

Many already know it: Moses goes to the top of a mountain to converse with the Lord, the Israelites left behind start becoming anxious about having no access to God, and thus, build a golden calf, which they equate with Him.

What happens after that? And what is the meaning of this story?

Tune in now to find out!

Key points discussed

Let's talk about Moses (00:48)

God is angry (05:33)

Moses challenges God (07:36)

Moses goes down to the people of Israel (10:39)

Moses' judgment (15:04)

Moses returns to the mountain (16:39)

Let's analyze the story (18:23)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Last week we continued with Samson's saga. So far we have observed an ostensive Israelite hero virtually devoid of any redeeming moral qualities. 

Even his communication with God is dubious. Yet that same God has used Samson to punish the Philistines for their domination of Israel. 

In this week's podcast, I will conclude the Samson story.  If we think this final chapter of Samson's story will eventually result in a man who finally gets his act together - we are setting ourselves up for disappointment. 

Samson's new girlfriend Delilah is being bribed by Philistine men who want to find out the source of his strength.

In a Monty Python-esque series of scenes, he keeps telling Delilah lies about what makes him strong. Things go awry for Samson when he tells her the truth.

Captured, blinded, and enslaved by the Philistines, a humiliated Samson plans his revenge, which will have fatal consequences for his captors and himself.

Samson will indeed be the instrument through which God devastates the Philistines. But this final episode underscores the comic tragedy that defines this notorious, biblical anti-hero. 

Let's dive in!

Key points discussed

The final chapter of Samson's saga (00:46)

Samson's exploits in Gaza and a bold escape (2:20)

Samson meets Delilah (05:35)

Delilah's betrayal (07:04)

Samson finally reveals his secret (15:20)

What happened after the Philistines capture Samson (17:14)

Samson ends it all in a comic tragedy (20:49)

Lessons from Samson's story (25:05)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you'd like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I'd be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus' precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Last week, I started telling Samson's story, his wedding, and the massacre that came after.

Today, I continue Samson's tale. It only gets weirder. Strange events happen all around Samson, and he is in the middle of every single act of senseless violence we hear about.

From grain field fires to angry Philistines, everything that goes on around him seems out of control.

Why is that? And how does his story go, exactly?

I answer these questions (and more!) in today's episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

Continuing with the Samson saga (00:51)

After last week's events (01:44)

300 foxes and grain field fires? (04:12)

More vengeance and senseless violence (07:42)

The Israelites start asking questions (09:47)

Samson is offered to the Philistines (11:52)

Judges in the Bible (16:37)

Let's interpret the story (19:10)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Before we start, let me ask you a question: Have you heard the story of Samson?

If you know your Bible well (or even if you've just been to Sunday school a few times as a child, OR watched the famous Hollywood movie, Samson and Delilah), then you know the name.

But let me make a quick introduction! 

In the Old Testament, Samson was a Nazirite judge with superhuman strength. He’s one of the most famous Bible characters, and much has been said about him in it.

But this isn't how the story we're talking about today starts.

Instead, it begins with Samson as a young man who is smitten by a Philistine woman. His parents object to the union, but they still go along with his marriage plans.

What happens after that? 

Let's find out together!

Key points discussed

The story begins (01:42)

A lion appears! (04:40)

Riddle me this... (07:03)

Samson goes on a murder spree (12:12)

Let's talk about Samson (13:35)

What about Samson's parents? (16:55)

Bride or pawn? (17:52)

God's role in all of this (20:21)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today's story is one of the later ones. A strange, sometimes weird story of two prophets, a king, and a lion.

If you're not sure what I'm talking about — after all, this isn't one of those famous (or infamous) Bible stories we all know of —, I invite you to refer to First Kings, Chapter 13.

In it, the narrator tells us the story of two unnamed prophets. 

One who denounces King Jeroboam and one who lies. Like many Bible stories, this one ends with a death.

Who dies? Who lives? And what's the meaning behind this strange tale?

Find out the answers to these questions in today's episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew!

Key points discussed

A strange tale (00:48)

How the story starts (01:34)

The real beginning (07:27)

A prophet or a liar? (09:41)

The prophet and the lion (11:58)

How the episode ends (16:35)

Let's analyze the scripture (21:55)

Sharing my interpretation (25:26)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Last week's episode was a Q & A session. Today, we go back to our usual format, which means I'll be recounting a Bible story!

And this week's story is about King Solomon. 

King Solomon is known in the Bible for his wisdom. And that's exactly what I'll be talking about today.

In the story I'll be telling, King Solomon asks God for wisdom. God not only gives him that, but also bestows riches and fame upon him as well.

Nice story, right?

However, this is only the beginning...

Key points discussed

King Solomon and wisdom (00:51)

Solomon's story (01:51)

The details tell us more (03:55)

Solomon, a king full of dualities (09:08)

Solomon asks for wisdom (11:21)

What happens after the dream? (14:37)

The consequences of Solomon's wisdom (20:14)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Yes friends, if you remember, a few months ago, I promised to answer your most burning questions in a few Q&A episodes, and I'm delivering on that promise.

This month's questions and answers session will be treating two very interesting subjects:

"Who decided the contents of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament?"

... and

"Who decided the contents of the New Testament?"

Curious what the answers are?

Tune in now to find out!

Key points discussed

Where did the Old Testament come from? (00:57)

The Jewish Bible today (05:53)

Why the Old Testament was written (09:07)

Where did the New Testament come from? (10:02)

How scripture is given validity (12:17)

The role of the Christian church's antisemitism in all this (14:57)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

To many, it depicts how an underdog like David, a shepherd’s boy, can beat someone like The Philistine, Goliath, who was a stronger, bigger, and more experienced military man.

Today, this biblical story is used as a metaphor to describe defying the odds and succeeding at something no one thought was possible. 

However, is that what the original tale was about? Many will say yes, but I come to you with an alternative answer!

In this week’s episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, we discuss how David, a shepherd’s boy, came to power; why Goliath was known as The Philistine, and what their story truly means.

Key points discussed

David and Goliath - a tale that withstood time (00:49)

A hero’s journey - from shepherd boy to king (05:42)

Why was Goliath referred to as The Philistine? (09:58)

What is the David and Goliath story truly about? (15:53)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I'm not recounting a forgotten Bible story or analyzing the actions of some infamous character. 

Today, I'm telling you WHY you should be listening to this podcast (as I've come to learn, there is no shame in self-promotion).

And yes, I can hear you already: There are already hundreds (if not thousands) of podcasts about the Bible, so why should I listen to this one?

My answer is simple: To me, the devil is always in the details. This means that when you listen to my podcast, you don't simply get a superficial analysis of the stories I'm recounting. 

No, instead, I do my best to go over every single detail with a fine tooth comb. And no, it's not tedious, because, as you'll come to see, these Bible tales I discuss in every episode are more thrilling than you might imagine! 

Not convinced yet? Give one of our episodes a listen and see for yourself, maybe you’ll change your mind!

Key points discussed

Why you should listen to The Bible You Thought You Knew (00:50)

It's not always straightforward (02:56)

How well do you know your Bible? (11:01)

Nothing in Scripture is irrelevant (14:16)

Here's what to keep in mind (21:26)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

A few weeks ago, I discussed two of Jacob's most infamous sons: Reuben and Judah. So, it is only fair to now discuss another member of the family, Dinah, Jacob's only daughter.

Dinah is only featured once in the Bible, in Genesis 34. And that's the exact story I'll be discussing today.

Sadly, like many other Bible tales that center around women, this one isn't a happy one. 

In fact, I'd like to warn you first: This story is a tragedy, so be prepared.

All right, are you ready?

Let's dive in!

Key points discussed

How the episode begins (01:19)

Absurdity ensues (05:52)

Hamor negotiates with Jacob's sons (09:17)

The bargain (13:56)

Biblical plot twist! (16:19)

Jacob's position in all this (21:09)

What to make of the story (23:05)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Like always, today, I'll be discussing a Bible story that's not as straightforward as you might think.

This week's tale is that of David's demise and his deathbed speech to his son, Solomon.

This episode tells us a lot about the Israelites and their fate, and has some of the most famous (or shall I say infamous) players in the Bible, such as Adonijah and Bath-Sheba.

How does the story go?

Tune in now to find out!

Key points discussed

How it all begins (01:08)

David's hit list (02:53)

Solomon's rule begins (07:52)

Adonijah gets assassinated (14:01)

Solomon appoints a new priest (17:46)

Is God's will being accomplished? (20:58)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, the patriarch himself takes center stage. 

Yes friends, this is a Jacob episode, and there's a lot to talk about!

Dubbed a trickster, Jacob is one of the most (if not the most) colorful and interesting characters in the Bible.

His life was full of highs and lows, and his journey is legendary. 

Today, I discuss part of that journey, when Jacob took on an unusual role: that of a religious reformer.

How did that happen, you ask?

Tune in to find out!

Key points discussed

Let's get to know Jacob (00:40)

God issues a command (01:43)

To Bethel! (07:24)

Something is amiss (09:26)

God appears to Jacob once more (14:18)

Rachel gives birth to Benjamin (16:42)

How the story ends (21:31)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today's podcast is going to highlight the story of two of the most prominent siblings in the Bible.

Any idea who I'm talking about?

In fact, no need to guess, because I'm about to tell you now: Reuben and Judah.

If these names don't ring a bell (although I'm sure they do), all you need to know is that Reuben and Judah are the oldest and fourth oldest son of Jacob, respectively.

And their story is as interesting and full of twists as you might imagine.

So, grab yourself a nice hot tea and have a seat on your favorite chair and let's dive into this tale together!

Key points discussed

Intro (00:00)

Meet Reuben and Judah (01:15)

Reuben and Judah vs. Joseph (09:43)

Tamar tricks Judah (15:27)

Reuben's story (19:32)

Has Judah had a moral transformation? (24:23)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, like every week, I'll be discussing a Bible story that's not very prominent: The tale of Isaac.

As you might already know, Isaac is part of one of the most used phrases in the Old Testament: "The God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob." 

Seeing as this sentence is so prominent in the scripture, you'd think Isaac's stories would be front and center in the Bible, like Jacob's and Abraham's.

However, there is very little about him, apart from one chapter in Genesis 26 that is entirely dedicated to him.

And that's exactly the chapter I will be covering in today's episode.

Are you ready? 

Let's dive in!

Key points discussed

Let's talk about Isaac (00:44)

How the story begins (01:50)

Isaac vs. the Philistines (07:34)

The Lord appears to Isaac (09:51)

Abimelech shows good faith (14:11)

How the chapter ends (16:58)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

It's been a while since we featured a podcast that accents women. And what an episode this is! Today we’ll talk about the story found in Judges, chapter four. This episode features two women, Deborah, who is quite famous, and Jael, who is less known by the general public.

In the meantime, that difference in popularity becomes trivial, as we learn how the power of 900 iron chariots, though daunting, is finally neutralized by two women. The patriarchy takes a backseat to the two powerful women who are front and center. Men do not look good in this story. 

This example doesn’t focus on feminism but instead underscores unconventional power. And in the biblical framework, power exercised by women will always be seen as unconventional. Still, God uses unconventional power of that sort all the time, even when going up against iron chariots. 

Never underestimate God's power or the women the deity uses to exercise it.

Tune in now and get full details!

Key points discussed

Introduction (00:00)

Political and historical background to the story (1:17)

Deborah is called as a prophetess (2:14)

Jael kills Sisera (6:47)

God's judgment is never the final word or final action (19:16)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

In the previous episode, we talked about how the Lord called David to be Israel’s King and Saul’s successor. In this episode, the narration is in 1 Kings 1. At this point, David is too feeble to run his kingdom. He seems to be spending all his time in bed trying to get warm, creating a vacuum.

Adonijah, David’s elder son, saw the situation and decided to take the bull by the horns.

In this episode, within conspiracies and stratagems, we will learn who succeeded David and deal with this critical question: who should have been David’s successor?

Tune in now and get those and more answers!

Key points discussed

Introduction (00:00)

David is quite old and frail to rule properly (1:05)

Adonijah decided to take his opportunity (2:37)

Nathan made a counter move (6:38)

Did David still consider Adonijah as his son? (18:57)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

In podcasts #43, #44, and #45, we dealt with the story of Saul. From the time he was anointed Prince to his first actions as Israel's ruler. This week we will treat the episode in which Saul's successor, David, was called to be Israel's King. 

This narration is in First Samuel 16. Some of this material was presented in podcast #7 when I treated the story of David and Goliath. You may want to listen to that episode, either as a refresher or for the first time. In this podcast, however, we will be focusing on the primary issue of David being anointed Saul's successor. 

Why was Saul replaced? And more importantly, why did God choose David?

Tune in now and get those and more answers!

Key points discussed

Introduction (00:00)

Why did God want a new ruler? (01:39)

“The Lord looketh on the heart” (04:58)

Transitional events between Saul’s and David’s reigns (10:16)

God had to work with, and through flawed people (21:50)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today's episode is a bit different. Yes friends, you've asked, and I've delivered, we're having a Q&A session!

A few episodes ago, I said that I would be having one or two of these Q&A episodes every month, and well, like I promised, here it is.

In this episode, I'll be answering three of your most burning questions, and discussing some interesting subjects, such as the name of Israel's God, "were there atheists in the ancient world?", and are the stories in the Bible historically accurate?

Curious about the answers?

Tune in now!

Key points discussed

Our first Q&A! (00:41)

Can Israel be a figure for the church? (00:56)

What was the name of Israel's God? (06:37)

Are these Bible stories historical? (14:24)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

This week's episode is a continuation of Saul's story, which I started recounting two weeks ago.

As you might already know by now (and if you don't, make sure to listen to the last two episodes first), Saul is considered the first legitimate king of Israel, and in the last two podcasts, I discussed his life before becoming king, where he came from, and his encounter with the prophet Samuel.

Today, I continue on with Saul’s story and discuss of one of the most absurd and strangest stories in the Bible.

Ready?

Let's dive in!

Key points discussed

How the story begins (01:14)

When Saul appears (05:24)

The Ammonites are subdued (11:07)

Saul's detractors (13:08)

An analysis of the story (18:25)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

In last week's episode, I discussed the beginning of Saul's journey and how he would become the first legitimate king of Israel and his encounter with the prophet Samuel.

Today, I pick up where I left off, and dive deeper into Saul's life and how he became king of Israel.

So, without further ado, let's dive in!

Key points discussed

Picking up where we left off (00:40)

The anointing ritual (01:25)

More prophecies (07:48)

Samuel summons the tribes (14:41)

Saul is found (18:05)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

As you might already know, technically, Saul was not Israel's first king. That title goes to Abimelech.

However, king Abimelech was a tyrant and a usurper, and his kingship had nothing to do with God.

Which is exactly why Saul is regarded as Israel's first legitimate king.

But, who was Saul exactly? And how did he come into his power?

I answer these questions in today's episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

How Saul's story begins (02:11)

Saul and the servant go to the city (05:38)

Saul and Samuel finally meet (11:16)

Saul's answer to Samuel (13:57)

The word of God (17:21)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

What am I discussing today? 

The answer is something a bit different from what you’re used to in this podcast: The concept of stupidity in the Bible.

Or, if I'm being a bit more precise, Stupidity as a Biblical category.

To talk about Stupidity and Wisdom (both capital letters), I'll be delivering a sermon I preached a few years ago at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church.

The sermon is based on a text from the first six verses of Chapter 9 of the Book of Proverbs. 

The story in this text highlights Stupidity as a Biblical concept and explains why its opposite is not intelligence but Wisdom.

So, without further ado, let's dive in!

Key points discussed

A reading of Dining at Wisdom's table (00:50)

Giving God ultimate thanks (03:29)

Stupid: A biblical category (05:16)

The rules of Wisdom (07:30)

Does morality increase with modernity? (12:55)

Science and Wisdom (15:42)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I'll be recounting one of the most (if not the most) famous Bible stories: The story of Adam and Eve and the Serpent and their incident in the Garden of Eden.

Now, like most people, you must think: "I already know about the tale, what else is there to learn about?"

And yet, this story is not as straightforward as you might think. After all, it's on this podcast!

So, are you ready for a retelling?

Let's dive in!

Key points discussed

One of the most famous incidents in the Bible (00:54)

The power of names (08:04)

Who's the Serpent? (10:37)

The aftermath of Eve meeting the Serpent (14:49)

The features of wisdom (18:18)

The human dilemma (27:17)

The story in the popular imagination (30:37)

Additional resources

To join my September mini-course, click here.

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review and email me at fspina106@gmail.com

I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in my next Q&A episode!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I come back to you with a new Bible tale. 

It is the story of Amaziah and Amos, which is based on a text from the Latter Prophets, specifically Amos 7, which is part of the Book of the Twelve.

The tale starts with the prophet, Amos, having a vision. A scary vision. One of God judging Israel, because the people of Israel were not living up to their covenant with God.

Then comes a second vision, then a third.

What did these visions mean? And what's Amaziah's role in all of this?

I answer both these questions in today's episode, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

Prophets and priests (00:54)

The beginning (02:20)

The second vision (07:00)

God will no longer forgive (09:42)

Amaziah speaks against Amos (13:04)

Amos's answer (16:42)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

This week, I dive deeper into Abraham's life and story. A few episodes ago, I discussed the tale of his children and how they came to life from different mothers.

Today, I focus on Isaac, the son Abraham had by Sarah, his wife. Specifically, I talk about how Abraham arranged a wife for Isaac.

As you know, in the ancient Near Eastern world, most, if not all marriages, were arranged by families. Think of it as their own dating website, Bible style!

Of course, this meant it was Abraham's responsibility as a father to procure his son with a good and dutiful wife.

With that in mind, Abraham sets up his faithful servant to the task of finding Isaac a wife.

How does the story go? And who does Isaac marry?

I answer both these questions in today's episode, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

Western movies and arranged marriages (00:53)

How the story begins (4:25)

The search for Isaac's wife starts (08:00)

A warm welcome (13:44)

Rebekah, Isaac's future wife (19:52)

The obstacle (21:56)

Rebekah's journey begins (25:16)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I'll be discussing the story of an unnamed woman who, nonetheless, has an entire chapter of the Bible dedicated to her.

This tale is told in one of the lesser-known books, the Book of Judges. And the unnamed woman in it is none other than Samson's mother.

How does the story start? 

Following the same pattern as many other stories, it starts with Israel having done something to anger God. This, of course, calls for punishment, and in this case, Israel's punishment comes in the form of a forty-years long Philistine oppression.

But what does this have to do with Samson and his parents?

Listen to the episode to find out!

Key points discussed

• An unnamed woman of the utmost importance (00:52)
• Meet Manoah (02:40)
• God answers Manoah's prayer (08:33)
• The angel of the Lord refuses to offer his name (12:06)
• Manoah's wife truly understands the message (14:54)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I will be tackling a tale featuring Ahab, the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat, the king of Judah. In the middle of the ordeal are also a group of prophets loyal to the Israelite court, and Micaiah ben Imlah, the one prophet who goes against the grain.

This story starts with an unusual alliance between Israel and Judah against Aram/Syria.

When this happens, the prophets' opinion is unanimous: They want the two kings to go to war.

However, one other prophet, Micaiah ben Imlah, disagrees, and accuses the royal prophets of lying. 

What are the consequences of this turn of events? Let's find out together!

Key points discussed

The story begins (00:53)

The prophets' answer (04:29)

Micaiah ben Imlah's response (10:53)

Micaiah is thrown in jail for his blasphemy (17:46)

Ahab is struck (21:49)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

In today's episode, I'm going to do a sermon I preached at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church. 

It's called "A Rock and a Hard Place" (as is the episode) and it's based on two scriptures: Isaiah 51, verses one through six, and the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 16, verses thirteen through twenty.

In it, I will be discussing the Church, its foundation, and the nature of prophets.

Why am I talking about this?

Tune in to the episode to find out!

Key points discussed

First, a reading of the scriptures (00:55)

Let's start the sermon (04:17)

"Who am I?" (06:25)

The nature of the Church (11:59)

The rock - A fitting metaphor (14:29)

What are prophets? (16:47)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

As you know, last week, I started recounting the famous tale of Sarai, Abram, and Hagar.

Today, we pick up where we left off and continue on with the saga.

If you remember well, the story starts with a couple, Sarai and Abram, who couldn't have children. 

Because of that, Sarai asks her husband to sleep with her Egyptian maid Hagar, who later becomes pregnant.

However, things quickly take a sour turn, and Hagar finds herself pregnant and on the run from her mistress. That’s until she meets the Lord's angel who tells her to go back.

In today's episode, we discuss the aftermath of that decision, from Hagar giving birth to Ishmael to the birth of Sarai's own son, Isaac.

Curious how all this goes?

Tune in now!

Key points discussed

A reminder of the tale's beginning (00:54)

Sarah is pregnant (and a change in names occurs) (02:42)

God's intervention (09:22)

Hagar and Ishmael in the wilderness (10:45)

Ishmael's descendents (18:22)

Apostle Paul's interpretation of the tale (20:13)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I will be delving into the compelling story of Sarai, Abram, and Hagar.

If you don’t know much about this tale, let me give you a quick summary.

The story starts with a married couple, Sarai and Abram, who are finding it difficult to have children. Because of that, Sarai tells her husband to sleep with her Egyptian maid, Hagar.

However, once that happens and Hagar gets pregnant, her demeanor changes and she starts looking down on Sarai.

Angry and upset, Sarai asks her husband to expel Hagar, but he refuses.

So, she starts mistreating her, and Hagar, tired of this, flees her mistress. However, Hagar’s fate changes when she encounters an angel.

What message did the angel have for Hagar? And what were the consequences of her pregnancy? I answer these two questions in today’s episode, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

Sarai, Abram, and Hagar (00:42)

How the story begins (02:08)

Sarai and Abram in Egypt (07:35)

Hagar’s pregnancy (11:43)

Hagar encounters the Angel of the Lord (14:54)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, we pick up where we left off last week.

If you remember, in the last episode, I started recounting the stories of Israelite kings Rehoboam and Jeroboam.

Both of them played a strategic role in the schism of Israel, with one of them ruling the southern kingdom, Judah, and the other ruling the northern kingdom, Israel.

Today, we continue on with their tale and analyze the aftermath of Rehoboam's actions.

So, if you're curious to know how their story goes, give us a listen!

Key points discussed

Some news for you! (01:49)

Rehoboam follows the children's advice (05:24)

The people's rebellion (08:09)

The appearance of Shemaiah (10:14)

What about the northern kingdom? (11:35)

Israel's sin (14:03)

Additional resources

If you are interested in donating to The Hive, click here.

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

As always, today, I will be discussing and analyzing a Bible story. 

In the last few episodes, I discussed the life and death of a mostly-forgotten Israelite king, King Josiah.

Today, I'm keeping up with that theme! I will be talking about two infamous Israelites kings: Rehoboam and Jeroboam.

You might not have heard of them, but both Rehoboam and Jeroboam were kings of different parts of Israel after the Schism. 

In fact, they were Judah's and Israel's first kings.

Curious to know what makes their story special? Give this episode a listen!

Key points discussed

How Solomon's story begins (02:44)

Jeroboam becomes a threat (07:54)

With Solomon's death comes the Schism (11:36)

The elders' counsel (14:38)

The yeladim's counsel (19:47)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today's podcast is a special one.

Why, you ask?

Well, because in it, I interview a fellow Bible scholar, the brilliant Dr. Rick Jordan. 

Dr. Rick Jordan, for those who don't know him, has been in ministry since college. He has served local churches as a youth minister, a pastor, an education minister, etc... 

For the last 18 years, Dr. Jordan has been working with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship in North Carolina. 

Today, he tells us all about his ministry, Great Bible Teachers, and discusses two of the podcast's episodes with me: The Road to Dothan and Fish, No Chips.

If this sounds like your cup of tea, and I know it does, tune in now!

Key points discussed

Introducing Dr. Rick Jordan and Great Bible Teachers (01:55)

Discussing The Road to Dothan (12:13)

Discussing Fish, No Chips (26:12)

Miracles have to be seen internally (35:26)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I will be wrapping up the story we started two episodes ago: The tale of King Josiah.

In those episodes, I discussed Josiah's early life, how he became king of Judah, and Huldah's prophecy.

I also pointed out something peculiar: Despite Josiah's apparent rockstar position in the Bible, he is all but forgotten by the church. 

Today, King Josiah's story takes on a whole new spin. I will be discussing him according to Second Chronicles, Chapters 34 and 35, which gives a completely different perspective on Josiah's life and his death.

Curious to know how Josiah's story ends? 

Tune in to this week's episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew to find out!

Key points discussed

- What we know about King Josiah (00:52)

- King Josiah in Second Chronicles (03:55)

- When the story truly changes (14:22)

- King Josiah's death in Second Chronicles (20:29)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

As you know, in the last episode of this podcast, I introduced one of the key players in the Bible, a man considered to be the greatest king of Israel: King Josiah!

We talked about how he became king, and how that one event ended up changing the destiny of many. We discussed the finding of the Torah and we met the prophetess Huldah.

Today, we dive even deeper into Josiah's story and we learn even more about him, his life, and how he was the first king of Israel to celebrate Passover.

So, if this still sounds like your cup of tea, tune in to this week's episode now!

Key points discussed

- Previously on The Bible, You Thought You Knew (00:53)

- Josiah's commands (04:14)

- Josiah's work knew no bounds (10:43)

- The dilemma (16:27)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Does this name ring a bell? No? That's natural! Sometimes, even the most avid Bible readers don't know much about him.

This is because when one thinks of Israelities kings, only a few names come to mind: Solomon, Saul, or David. And if you're fancy, maybe you'll even think of Hezekiah or Ahab. But never Josiah. 

King Josiah lives in obscurity, but that doesn't mean he's less than extraordinary. In fact, Josiah is acclaimed in the Bible as Israel's greatest king. 

So, if he's so great, how come most don't know much about him? And what is his story?

I answer these questions and more in today's episode of The Bible You Thought You Know, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

King Josiah who? (00:42)

How the story begins (05:51)

The discovery of the Torah scroll (10:07)

The judgement of Judah (17:42)

Josiah's fate (19:38)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Today, I'm not recounting a forgotten Bible story or analyzing the actions of some infamous character. 

Today, I'm telling you WHY you should be listening to this podcast (as I've come to learn, there is no shame in self-promotion).

And yes, I can hear you already: There are already hundreds (if not thousands) of podcasts about the Bible, so why should I listen to this one?

My answer is simple: To me, the devil is always in the details. This means that when you listen to my podcast, you don't simply get a superficial analysis of the stories I'm recounting. 

No, instead, I do my best to go over every single detail with a fine tooth comb. And no, it's not tedious, because, as you'll come to see, these Bible tales I discuss in every episode are more thrilling than you might imagine! 

Not convinced yet? Give one of our episodes a listen and see for yourself, maybe you’ll change your mind!

Key points discussed

- Why you should listen to The Bible You Thought You Knew (00:50)

- It's not always straightforward (02:56)

- How well do you know your Bible? (11:01)

- Nothing in Scripture is irrelevant (14:16)

- Here's what to keep in mind (21:26)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

As you already know, Job is basically a Bible rock star. He's the patron saint of patient people. Not only was Job successful and blessed, he was also a man who feared God. A true role model!

In the classic story, Job was tested by God and The Satan. The Satan caused catastrophic events that completely changed Job's life to the worst, and yet, he never complained, and he never showed bitterness.

Or so you'd think!

But there is another side to Job's tale, and it's exactly what I'll be talking about today. 

As you know, it's all in the details, and those details will help us truly delve into Job's story and analyze it from the inside out.

So, if this sounds like your cup of tea, grab a seat and give us a listen! 

Key points discussed

Job's story begins (01:49)

The Satan tests Job (07:21)

The aftermath (12:47)

Job's lament (19:20)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

I will be discussing the events of the story with my dear friends, colleagues, and feminist scholars Dr. Karen Winslow and Dr. Sara Koenig.

In this interview, we go deeper into the character of Bath-Sheba. There isn’t a lot known about her, and even the story in the Bible doesn’t go into much detail. 

Or so you’d think.

Through analyzing the tale, my colleagues and I discuss and debate Bath-Sheba’s internal life, her motivations, and her feelings.

What was in her mind during her affair with David? And did she have any agency in these events?

We discuss these questions and more in this week’s episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

- Introducing Dr. Karen Winslow and Dr. Sara Koenig (01:39)

- Bath-Sheba: Victim or seductress? (02:25)

- Uses of feminine and masculine forms in the Bible (10:56)

- David vs. Uriah (13:25)

- David’s evolution (17:37)

- Nathan’s role in the story (22:12)

- The language in Samuel (28:57)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

However, like always, I will be putting a spin on it. After all, more often than not, these Bible stories are not as straightforward as we think.

What story am I talking about?

Well, in today's episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, I will be recounting the two feeding tales of large crowds in the Gospel of Mark.

The first story goes like this: While stuck in the wilderness with a hungry crowd of over five thousand people, Jesus was able to bless some bread and fish and turn it into a feast for the weary travelers. 

However, the second story was a bit different. 

How so? 

If you want to find out, grab a cup of tea, have a seat, and give us a listen!

Key points discussed

What we're discussing today (00:54)

Another look at the famous story (03:18)

The second tale (09:21)

Jesus' encounter with the Pharisees (16:27)

Perception and understanding (21:22)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

However, I think it's the perfect subject to discuss in this week's episode, and so, here we are: a reading of Exodus 35:1 through Exodus 36:7.

This passage tells the story of Moses and the Israelites building the tabernacle while on the road to the Promised Land.

Boring, you might think. But, as you must have learned already, there is always an exciting story (or explanation) behind every tale I discuss in this podcast.

So, how does this story go? And why do I think it’s so compelling? 

I answer these questions in this week's episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

• Intro (00:51)
• How the tale begins (02:30)
• The importance of detail (04:42)
• Israel's generosity (07:34)
• The golden calf (11:17)
• The building of the tabernacle (15:46)
• Israel at their best (20:34)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

This tale holds more meaning than you might think. After all, the creation of human beings is the climax of God's creative efforts. We are his most fascinating project. 

However, the first question we should be asking ourselves is, is it only one creation story? As it happens, the answer is more complicated than that. You don't have to be a scholar to recognize that the first two chapters of Genesis present two creation stories instead of one. 

So why do we call Genesis 1 THE creation story? Well, this is one of the many questions I'm answering today.

If you want to learn more about the story of creation, the significance of Genesis 2, and why humanity is made in God’s image, tune in now!

Key points discussed

• Answering one of your questions (00:53)
• Introducing Genesis 1 and 2 (02:19)
• Genesis 1, THE creation story? (05:29)
• The creation of humanity (10:03)
• Humans are made in the image of God (15:24)
• The essence of humanity (19:28)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to give us a follow now!

Instead of just me discussing the subject, I am instead turning it into a group discussion with two brilliant friends and colleagues, Dr. Karen Winslow, professor of Old Testament at Azusa Pacific University and Azusa and Dr. Sara Koenig, professor of Old Testament at Seattle Pacific University and Seattle Pacific Seminary.

And today's subject is just as brilliant as my guests! We will be discussing the amazing women of the Exodus, the women in the New Testament, and their impact on the stories we know.

We will also be talking about other tales from the Bible that subvert the patriarchal culture the biblical material arose from, from the story of Tamar to the famous tale of Bath-Sheba.

So, if you want to learn more about the women of the Bible, their stories, and their influence, tune in now!

Key points discussed

• Introducing Dr. Karen Winslow (01:33)
• Introducing Dr. Sara Koenig (03:38)
• The women of the Exodus (07:00)
• The importance of Providence (17:43)
• Women subverting the patriarchy in the Old Testament (20:49)
• Sarah and Hagar (29:40)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

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I ended the story with remarks about the difference between comedy and tragedy.

And today, we’re going to be discussing comedy. And what better example of comedy than PSalm 51? After all, it has all the traits of one: hope and possibility. 

Why am I discussing Psalm 51 this week? Simply because it is the most fitting conclusion to David and Bath-Sheba's tale. 

What is Psalm 51 about? And why is it an essential part of David's story? 

I answer these two questions in today’s episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, so tune in now!

Key points discussed

• Why Psalm 51 (02:06)
• Psalms 22 & 23 (05:15)
• God's grace (09:24)
• David's sin - a sin against God (12:59)
• Returning to God (18:23)
• The final two verses (22:34)

Additional resources

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This week, I will discuss the aftermath of David's cruel endeavors. 

As you know, David slept with Bath-Sheba, impregnated her, and orchestrated her husband's murder, as well as the murder of several other Israelite soldiers. 

Of course, God saw this as the grave, evil sin that it is, and as a result, sent the prophet Nathan to confront David.

Nathan tells David the story of two men, one rich, and one poor. In the story, the rich man takes the poor man's pet lamb whom he loved as one of his children, slaughters it, and serves it in a feast to his guests. 

This story, of course, comes with a clear moral. 

What was David's reaction to it? And what was his punishment?

I answer these two questions in this week’s episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, so tune in now to learn everything you need to know about David’s story!

Key points discussed

• David's cruelty (01:25)
• God sends Nathan to confront David (06:24)
• David's response (09:07)
• David's punishment (12:59)
• Even forgiven sin has consequences (15:00)

Additional resources

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Today, we're doing the same, but with a more infamous story, one where David is the clear antagonist.

It's springtime, which means kings are going to war. However, David only sends his army, and stays in Jerusalem. This is a peculiar decision.

While his soldiers are at war, David meets Bath-Sheba, the wife of Uriah, an elite soldier under David's direct command. 

Her being married does not deter David, and so, he sleeps with her. Unfortunately, Bath-Sheba gets pregnant. 

Because her husband was not present, it would be obvious that the child was not his. 

To avoid scandal, David calls for Uriah back to Jerusalem, and tries to make him go home and sleep with his wife. 

However, this plan doesn't work. Instead of going home, Uriah sleeps by the palace's door, with the other servants.

Why did Uriah not go home to his wife? How did David respond? And what were the consequences of his affair with Bath-Sheba?

I answer all these questions and more in this week’s episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, so tune in now to learn more!

Key points discussed

• Spring, the time of war (01:31)
• The introduction of Bath-Sebah (04:42)
• David’s dilemma (07:22)
• Uriah’s code of honor (10:22)
• Uriah’s death (14:23)
• God’s reaction to David’s evil deeds (18:51)

Additional resources

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As we know, this was not a lie. Indeed, first came Saul, then David, then Solomon, but none of them was right for Israel.

Why is that? 

Well, before the Israelites even demanded a king, Moses decided to spell out some criteria on who it should be, the most important one the king having to be an Israelite. 

He also added that the king shall not want horses, wives, or wealth, and he shall model for other Israelites what it means to "fear God".

And this is when Samuel comes into play. In 1 Samuel 8, he is old, and his sons are corrupt. The Israelites are worried about who's going to succeed him, and so, they ask him to appoint a king. 

However, they want a king like all the other kings, going against Moses’ words.

How did Samuel respond? Who did he appoint as king? And what were the consequences of that fateful decision?

We answer all these questions in this week’s episode, so tune in to learn everything you need to know about Israel’s first kings, the story of Samuel, and why Moses gave very specific criteria for the king of Israel!

Key points discussed

• The ancestral stories of Genesis and Deuteronomy (03:38)
• What a king should be (06:17)
• The story of Samuel (13:41)
• A king like all other kings (17:04)
• An Israelite monarchy is born (23:57)

Additional resources

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Instead of protesting this horrifying decision or trying to protect his son, The Child of Promise, he just goes with it. 

However, as soon as Abraham is ready to take his son’s life, an Angel intervenes and lets him know all of it was a test by God. At the same time, a ram appears, and they sacrifice it instead.

This story might seem straight-forward, but many parts of it are shrouded in mystery. 

For example, on the journey to the place of the sacrifice, Abraham and Isaac are accompanied by two young men, but we never really know who these men are. 

Similarly, when everything is well and done, it is said Abraham and the two young men go back to Beer-Sheba, with no mention of Isaac.

What happened to Isaac after the test? Who were the two young men accompanying Abraham and his son? And what is the significance of the ram?

We answer all these questions in this week’s episode, so tune in to learn how Abraham’s saga ended!

Key points discussed

• Abraham and Isaac make their way to the place of worship (02:41)
• Abraham is ready to sacrifice his son (05:02)
• The meaning of the test (07:01)
• The reason behind the ram’s appearance (09:23)
• The two young men (15:06)

Additional resources

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And although Abraham was not the one to stay silent when talking to God, this time, he complied, without uttering a single word.

That is how the story of the Akedah begins.

When the day of the sacrifice comes, Abraham gets everything ready, takes his son with him, and forges the path to the mountain where he has to sacrifice Isaac.

When they make it there, Abraham prepares himself to sacrifice The Child of Promise, but an Angel intervenes and stops it.

In the end, all of it was nothing more than a test by God. A test to see how faithful Abraham was, and he had passed it with flying colors.

And yet, as clear as we think this story is, there are still many mysteries to it.

Why did God order Abraham to sacrifice Isaac? Why did Abraham comply so easily? And how can we interpret this story?

In this episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, I answer all these questions and more. So tune in to learn more about the story of the Akedah, how Abraham passed God’s test, and the importance of Abraham’s response to the test.

Key points discussed

• A reading of Genesis 22 (02:08)
• God’s test (6:39)
• From Hebrew to English (09:15)
• A modern look at the story (14:04)
• Abraham stays silent (17:07)

Additional resources

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unless he could examine the body with the tale-tale signs of crucifixion, to him, Jesus would stay dead.

Many view this as God telling us how doubting Jesus’ resurrection was bad, however, if you’ve listened to any episode of this podcast, you know where this is heading: the story is much more complex than we think, and it has a completely different moral.

You see, when you go through the Gospels, you learn that Thomas was not the only one who doubted. Many unnamed disciples couldn’t believe in Jesus’ resurrection until they met with him. And even then, they didn’t rejoice as you would think they did.

In fact, once Thomas believes Jesus is back to life, he is the only one who recognizes who Christ truly is. And this means that, in this story, Poor Doubting Thomas is the Hero, not the Fool.

What is the true meaning behind Thomas’ tale? Why did other disciples doubt Jesus’ return? And how did Thomas get his “Poor Doubting” moniker?  

In this episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, I answer all these questions and more. So tune in to learn more about the story of Poor Doubting Thomas, why he didn’t believe, and the true moral of this famous Bible story!

Key points discussed

• About the Essenes (01:36)
• Thomas was not the only disciple to doubt (08:23)
• Thomas in John’s Gospel (14:38)
• Eight days later (18:43)

Additional resources

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In the former, God is a vengeful, unforgiving entity, while in the latter, he is loving, forgiving, and merciful. 

Naturally, this created a dichotomy in the minds of those of Christian faith. And thus, even though the Old Testament is considered to be Jesus’ Scripture, it’s not viewed as favorably as the New Testament.

This is especially true with the younger generation of Christians. As my guests in this week’s episode, Pat Vance and Steve Delamarter, tell me, young people don’t seem to be enthralled with the Old Testament. 

To them, it’s too dark and too violent.

Why are Christians so dismissive of Jesus’ Bible? Why are their feelings about the Old Testament so negative? And what can we do to change these attitudes?

In this episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, I discuss all of this with my two esteemed guests. So, tune in to learn more about the Old Testament, how Pastor Pat Vance worked on changing attitudes in his ministry, and the importance of learning about both testaments!

Key points discussed

• Introducing Pat Vance & Steve Delamarter (00:53)
• A look back at Jesus’ Bible - Episodes 2 & 3 (03:46)
• People’s reluctance to Jesus’ Bible (05:28)
• How Pat changed attitudes in his ministry (09:02)
• Cultivating appreciation for both texts (12:51)
• The nature of the Christian church (18:08)
• The many interpretations of the Scripture (22:48)
• Final words of wisdom from our guests (25:53)

Additional resources

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Every character has a purpose, and none of them had a more important purpose than the unnamed man who asked Joseph the one question that changed his fate: “ma t’vakesh? - “what are you looking for?”

That is how Joseph’s story begins.

Because he was favored by his father Jacob, Joseph was hated by his brothers. One day, when they leave home to pasture the flocks, Jacob sends Joseph to check on them. 

When Joseph goes and doesn’t find them, he starts wandering around, looking for them, and meets the unnamed man who asks him “What are you looking for?” 

The answer to that question leads Joseph to Dothan, where his brothers sell him to a caravan going to Egypt. Had that not happened, history would have been completely different. 

Why was this encounter so important? How did it change the course of history? And why is the unnamed man one of the most crucial characters in the Bible?

In this episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, I answer all these questions and more. So tune in to learn more about the role of providence in the bible, what lurking provenance is, and how all of this ties up to the history of humanity!

Key points discussed

• The importance of minor characters in the Bible (01:20)
• The man who lead Joseph to Dothan (04:49)
• How one encounter changed history forever (11:35)
• The role of Providence in the Bible (13:25)
• The Lurking Provenance (19:19)

Additional resources

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However, just like every other human being, they were not perfect. They too made mistakes, disobeyed God, lacked faith, and committed errors that had grave consequences. 

One of these mistakes, Abraham and Sarah’s first misstep, was taking their nephew Lot with them on their voyage to the land promised by God.

In the Old Testament, we learn everything about the consequences of this action, and we see Abraham and Sarah as who they truly were: complex, flawed, and completely human.

How did Abraham’s story start? How was his relationship with Lot? And how did that affect the fate of the People of Israel?

In this episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, I answer all these questions and more. So tune in to learn about the true story behind Abraham’s first misstep!

Key points discussed

• How it all began (00:51)
• God appears to Abraham (08:13)
• Abraham’s first mistake (12:03)
• Abraham and Sarah - flawed humans (16:54)

Additional resources

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However, do we really understand its true meaning?

In the story, Jesus turns water into wine while attending a Jewish wedding in Cana, Galilee. The party runs out of wine, and Jesus saves the day. Pretty simple, right?

And yet, this tale is much more complex than you think; and the moral of this story is not always evident.

Why did Jesus turn water into wine? What was Mary’s role in this? And what did this event mean for the disciples?

In this episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, I answer all these questions and more. So tune in to learn about the true meaning behind this notorious tale!

Key points discussed

• Jesus turns water into wine (00:42)
• Our basic understanding of the story (01:45)
• What is the timeline of the story? (04:47)
• The role Jesus’ mother plays (0:43)
• A deeper look at this notorious tale (11:37)
• The moral of the story (19:00)

Additional resources

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Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

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For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

Well, today, I am here to argue the opposite. Women do play an important role in the Book of Exodus!

In fact, the contrast between these many women and Moses and the Pharaoh is present throughout the story as we learn everything about them, from how the midwives Shiphrah and Puah opposed the king of Egypt, to how Moses’ wife, Zipporah, saved him from God’s wrath.

Who were these women? What part did they play in the Exodus of the Israelites? And how did they use their wits and intelligence to start their own revolutions?

This episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew answers all these questions and more. So, tune in, and learn everything you need to know about the seven women in the Book of Exodus, their lives, their quiet fights, and how their use of soft power shaped the story of the Israelites. 

Key points discussed

• The women of the Book of Exodus (00:51)
• The Pharaoh’s fear of the Israelites (01:46)
• The story of Shiphrah and Puah (04:48)
• Moses saved by the Pharaoh's daughter (11:02)
• Moses vs. the women of the Exodus (18:32)
• The story of Zipporah, Moses’ wife (24:00)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

To many, it depicts how an underdog like David, a shepherd’s boy, can beat someone like The Philistine, Goliath, who was a stronger, bigger, and more experienced military man.

Today, this biblical story is used as a metaphor to describe defying the odds and succeeding at something no one thought was possible. 

However, is that what the original tale was about? Many will say yes, but I come to you with an alternative answer!

In this week’s episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, we discuss how David, a shepherd’s boy, came to power; why Goliath was known as The Philistine, and what their story truly means.

Key points discussed

• David and Goliath - a tale that withstood time (00:49)
• A hero’s journey - from shepherd boy to king (05:42)
• Why was Goliath referred to as The Philistine? (09:58)
• What is the David and Goliath story truly about? (15:53)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

What are we to make of a general resurrection, in which tombs were open and a number of people who were buried rose up and appeared to many?

After all, the general resurrection was supposed to be at the end of the process, not its beginning! It was supposed to happen when Jesus returned, not before. Tune in today to find out why Matthew decided to jump the gun and how we interpret this text. 

Key points discussed

• Matthew 27 reading (00:00)
• Why many priests avoid this topic (09:10)
• The reason Matthew jumped ahead in this story (14:09)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

The brothers’ story starts with two offerings. One from Abel, which God accepts. And one from Cain, which God rejects. 

Why? Many over the centuries have theorized the reasons for this, from religious ones to cultural ones.

In this week’s episode of The Bible You Thought You Knew, we discuss all of them, and explore a new theory - the role of the ground, Adamah, in the the bible, and how a curse on it affected Cain and Abel’s faith.

Key points discussed

• Cain & Abel - The bible’s first murder (00:46)
• Why did God reject Cain’s offering? (04:02)
• Two religious hypotheses to explore (04:44)
• Two theological hypotheses to explore (07:56)
• When God created Adam and Eve (10:49)
• The cursing of the ground by God (16:34)
• How Noah lifted the curse on Adamah (20:21)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

This week, we continue the story and answer your most burning questions. 

What prompted the centuries-long conflict between the church and the synagogue? What were the consequences of that conflict? And, most importantly, why is the church now reluctant to see itself as a figure of Israel?

Today’s episode is all about the Jewish people’s claim to Israel, the shared history of Judaism and Christianity, and the political rivalry that made them what they are now.

Key points discussed

• How the synagogue has claim to Israel (00:53)
• Two communities rising from the ashes (02:33)
• The beginning of a centuries-long conflict (06:27)
• The church taking ownership for its mistakes (11:01)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

In this episode, we’ll look at the evidence that clearly points to the fact that Jesus’ movement was completely dedicated to Israel and its future. 

Over the course of this episode, you will see that the church is justified in seeing itself as a continuation of Israel. But what about Judaism and their claim to Israel? This is a story for the next episode… 

Key points discussed

• What was Jesus’ vision for Israel (00:54)
• Is the ethnic connection all that important? (05:01)
• The argument for the church’s claim to Israel (10:05)
• Jesus and Israel as written in the gospels (11:45)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

It is without any doubt that Jesus thought that he and the Old Testament God were one.  He thought from the Old Testament throughout his life and profoundly believed that the God of Abraham and Sarah was also his God.

So how come Christians today prefer the New Testament to the Old? And why did the Jewish people reject the Greek translation of their own Bible, that they themselves commissioned for translation?

These are the questions I’ll answer in this and episodes to come. We will see that some of the negative feelings towards the Old Testament stem from the fact that many of us don’t know the biblical text in all its glorious detail. 

However, as we move forward in our studies, we will come to understand the full depth and power of the Bible!

Key points discussed

• Why are Hebrew and Greek translations seen differently? (00:48)
• The New Testament evidence of Jesus’ attitude towards the Old (04:29)
• Understanding how Christians see the Old and New Testament (09:35)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

Jesus’ Bible is what Christians eventually called the Old Testament. But that term was not used when Jesus was walking on the earth! In fact, Christians began to use the term Old Testament only after they had come to regard the documents making up the New Testament as scripture.

So what did Jesus and the religious community at the time call Jesus’ Bible? 

Understanding the proper and historic terminology regarding the Old Testament is an important first lesson in our Bible studies. So, let’s get to it!

Key points discussed

• My plan to deliver a lecture for the ages (00:53)
• The origin and terminology for the Jesus’ Bible (06:58)
• Why was the terminology so fluid in Jesus’ era? (11:19)

Additional resources

Do you have a question about the Bible or a topic you’d like to know more about? 

Yes? Then go ahead and leave a rating and a review! I’d be honored to hear your thoughts and answer your questions in the next episodes!

And if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

For more reading, check out my book The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story!

In this podcast, I will be your teacher and guide through the Bible that not many people are familiar with. As we unpack quintessential Biblical stories, you will gain an unparalleled understanding of the scripture. More importantly, my teaching style is fun, engaging, and always inspirational!

But before we get into dissecting the scripture, I’d like you to know a little about me and how I got to the position of speaking to you on this podcast.

I didn’t always think of myself as a scholar, but today I speak seven languages and hold numerous degrees. In high school, I was a “C” student who could never imagine teaching at a college. What inspired this transformation?

In this episode, you will hear all about my journey of becoming a professor at the Seattle Pacific University and an Episcopal priest at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Bellevue, Washington.

I developed a specific pedagogical method for teaching scripture that I’m happy to share with you today and in future episodes. As a result, my students found the Bible not only fascinating but also deeply transformative. It is my hope that you will receive this podcast as a blessing as well!

So if you want to unlock the secrets of Jesus’ precious words, make sure to subscribe now! 

We’re only getting started.

For more reading, check out my book 

The Faith of the Outsider: Exclusion and Inclusion in the Biblical Story