The Divine Council Worldview Podcast

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the various themes present in John 3:22-36: righteousness, sin, Jesus' atonement, the significance of baptism, and the acceptance of Gentiles into the family of Abraham. Ronn particularly introduces his understanding of the Holy Spirit's “sanctification” of Gentile communities in the upcoming Book of Acts, recommending that this idea will satisfy so many of the tensions both in the ministry of Jesus and the growth of the later church. They conclude by emphasizing the importance of understanding the gospel in the context of Abraham family dynamics and the unfulfilled story of Israel.

In this episode, Ronn & Mike explore Nicodemus' interview with Jesus as recorded in John 3:1-21. They discuss the possiblew misconceptions surrounding the Mosaic law, the Jewish expectations of what a messiah would accomplish, the nature of Jesus' teachings, and the meaning behind the term 'born again.' The conversation highlights the historical context of the Pharisees and their relationship with Jesus, as well as the broader themes of Gentile inclusion and understanding what kind of thought world Jesus would have shared with someone like Nicodemus. 

Recorded live at the DCW Conference in Indianapolis, Mel sits down with Jason Bostow, host of the Ring Them Bells podcast, for a powerful conversation on the legacy of Dr. Michael Heiser. They explore Heiser's impact on biblical scholarship, the need for interdisciplinary boldness, and the personal stories inspiring Jason's upcoming documentary.

In this episode, Ronn & Mike welcome Dr. Matthew Bates back to the podcast to discuss his recently released book, Beyond the Salvation Wars. They discuss what the NT Greek word family of pistis indicates for how all peoples are to respond to the Gospel of King Jesus. They dive into the rifts between Protestants and Catholics, and the tensions amongst various different Protestant denominations and alliances regarding how we understand 'grace', 'faith', and 'works.'  They conclude with their hope of the potential for greater Christian unity, not just amongst Protestants, but of the Western and Eastern arms of the Church and the way forward as we all grow in our understanding and appreciation of loyalty laid down before King Jesus.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the final three verses of John 2. This short passage allows their conversation to develop at length the concepts of “belief" and “faith” in both the Old Testament (Hebrew, aman) and the New Testament (Greek, pisteou). The study details the implications of Jesus' understanding of belief and loyalty when it comes to his expectation of “following” him into eternal life. Along the way they emphasize the importance of viewing faith as an expression of loyalty rather than as a passive acceptance of Jesus' work on the cross, in the end critiquing modern theological interpretations of faith.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Jesus' cleansing of the Temple in John 2:13-22. They use this opportunity to then talk through the complexities of the Old Testament law, its interpretation within evangelicalism, and the historical context of the temple's significance. Their discussion highlights how Jesus' fulfillment of the law is often misunderstood and emphasizes the importance of cultural context in understanding biblical texts that deal with the challenges of how to understand biblical law in the modern age. They conclude by exploring the relationship between God's giving of law and his desire to form a family which, in the end, does not need law in order to function.

In this episode of the Divine Council Worldview Podcast, Mel and Rich sit down with Jeff Lees to explore his remarkable journey from skepticism to a vibrant faith shaped by ministry, creativity, and the teachings of Dr. Michael Heiser. Jeff opens up about his time in youth ministry, his transition into art and toy design, and how these paths intersect through a deep passion for community and storytelling. Together, they challenge traditional interpretations of scripture, discuss the meaning of being image bearers of God, and highlight the transformative power of Christian creativity—including a bold vision for toys that bring biblical narratives to life. This conversation invites listeners into a thoughtful and open dialogue about faith, identity, and innovation.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the significance of Jesus' first recorded miracle, his turning of water into wine at the wedding of Cana. They discuss the implications and nature of miracles in the context of faith to Yahweh, especially in context of John's original audience which would have known that created divine beings could perform miraculous deeds as well. Their conversation touches on personal experiences of miracles, the unique aspects of John's Gospel, and the possible reasons behind Jesus' miracles.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss John 1:29-51, especially noting how Jesus would be the “lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (1:29). They begin by interpreting Old Testament “atonement” (Hebrew, kaphar) texts within their original context. They note how the practice of sacrifice across the ancient world was often accompanied by symbolic acts of “sanctification” as a person prepared to come into the presumed presence of a deity. This is what Jesus would do in his death, claimed John—he would cleanse not only the loyal Israelite, but anyone in the world who would put his faith in Jesus.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike study John 1:19-28, noting how John the Baptist's story was pivotal in understanding Jesus' identity. They discuss how John's prophetic ministry faced resistance from Jewish leadership, how John's practice of baptism functioned as an act of allegiance in early Christianity, and how the concept of a “messiah” (even "the messiah”) evolved in both the Old and New Testaments. Their conversation emphasized the importance of understanding the cultural background of the first century for all aspects of biblical interpretation, especially as it relates to defining the role and identity of Jesus.

In this episode, Ronn, Mike, Mel, and Rich come back together as a podcasting team to reflect on a year's worth of episodes, adjustments, and hopes for the DCW, Dr. Heiser's legacy, the work of the Michael S. Heiser Foundation, and the glimmers of change within society at large. They talk about their thoughts and feelings on having lost Dr. Heiser over two years, including the questions they still have and the shared common bond they have to each other because of their mutual mentor, friend, and brother in the faith.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore John 1:2-18. They consider John's explanation of Jesus' pre-existence, his role as co-creator with the God, the active role of disciples “taking” Jesus in becoming “children of God” (1:12), and the description of Jesus as “the only begotten” of God (1:14, 18). They explore the invisibility of the God of Israel, the unique relationship between Jesus and his Father, and the broader implications of Jesus' deity and messiahship within the context of early Christian thought. In conclusion, they recommend that monogones theos reflects the original text in 1:18, finding John to explain Jesus as a “unique deity” who comes from the “chest” or lap of his Father. 

In this episode, Rich and Mel sit down with Pastor Jeremy Keys from Calgary, Alberta, to explore his incredible journey from a traumatic childhood and struggles with addiction to a life transformed by faith. Jeremy shares how his experiences shaped his understanding of the gospel and the importance of family and community in healing. The conversation delves into spiritual warfare and the unseen realm, emphasizing how these elements intersect with faith and personal transformation. They discuss the challenges of addressing addiction within a faith-based framework and the necessity of reclaiming spiritual spaces for healing and support. Jeremy also highlights the role of scripture in navigating spiritual battles and the need for believers to embrace the supernatural aspects of their faith. The episode closes with a powerful reflection on connecting with the next generation, fostering community collaboration, and deepening our understanding of the gospel's transformative power.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike begin their study of the Gospel of John, focusing specifically on its opening verse. They explore the Greek concept of logos, the apparent distinction between logos and theos, and the concept of the pre-existence of Jesus. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of understanding the relationship between Jesus and Yahweh, delving into the complexities of understanding the nature of Jesus, the concept of theos, and the implications of Trinitarianism. The discussion emphasizes the importance of context, narrative, and the evolving nature of language in theological discourse, recommending in the end that a DCW offers a unique perspective on the application of theos to the identity of Jesus.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike Chu discuss the meaning of the term “God” in the New Testament, especially noting the lexical movement between the words elohim and theos as Semitic and Greco-Roman languages developed over the centuries. The importance of this study will be reflected in the opening lines of John 1:1 and the identification of Jesus (“the Word with with God, and the Word was God”) as this podcast begins its study in the Gospel of John in following episodes. Using biblical and extra-biblical literature, this discussion comes to the conclusion that elohim and theos did not carry the same meaning between the testaments, and that the Greek theos cannot be equated to the English word “God.”

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the transition from the book of Genesis to the Gospel of John, the next subject of study for this podcast. They recommend that the Bible's authority lies primarily in the overarching story it tells, and that for this reason we must know the background and context of any biblical book before studying it. Their discussion presents a sweeping overview of the major events of biblical history and theological developments, including the calling of Abraham, the significance of loyalty, Israelite rituals of faith, and the model of leadership exemplified by David. It concludes by showing how the consequences of idolatry, the experience of exile, the promise of a new covenant, and the political landscape of Jewish independence gives way to John the Baptist and the story of John's gospel.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike study the concluding chapters of Genesis. They begin by briefly overviewing the concept of biblical inspiration, anticipating that the poem of chapter 49 is likely the work of more than one person or even one era. They note Jacob's curious mention of an elohim/mal'ak (48:15-16) who was responsible for the protection of the patriarch for many years. At the conclusion of this podcast they pause to review some practical aspects of this book, noticing that there are a fair number of themes found in Genesis that seem to be ignored by the modern church and—just the opposite—there are many ideas Christians talk about today which find no mention in Genesis at all.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore Joseph's announcement to his brothers, appreciating how this kind of story makes us consider God's involvement in human affairs. They recommend, in the end, that a Divine Council worldview plays an important and unique role in working through the complex question of God's sovereignty and human freewill. Their conversation moves through the complex narrative of Jacob's faith journey, his interactions with Yahweh, and the significance of family dynamics as they move to Egypt.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the significance of Joseph's actions which led to his release from Egyptian prison. Their conversation touches on the possible significance of the absence of Yahweh's name in the narrative, as well as themes such as deception, emotional burden, transformation, and character development. The discussion highlights the significance of Judah's leadership, emphasizing how individuals can change over time and the importance of understanding each person's journey of loyalty.

In part 1 of this thought-provoking episode of the Divine Council Worldview Podcast, hosts Mel and Rich sit down with Dr. Michael Bennett, a trailblazer in technology, as well as provocative Christian podcasting. Together, they reflect on Bennett's journey from engineer to host of the acclaimed FutureQuake radio show, sharing his unique experiences at conferences and the transformative impact of Dr. Michael Heiser's work on his understanding of spirituality. Bennett opens up about his personal encounters with Heiser, offering poignant reflections on the critical role Heiser played in reshaping his spiritual perspective. The discussion explores the legacy Heiser leaves behind, the need for critical engagement in spiritual scholarship, and how future thinkers can expand upon his groundbreaking contributions. Whether you're a scholar, seeker, or simply curious about the intersection of faith, media, and community, this episode offers a compelling blend of personal stories, critical insights, and encouragement to pursue truth with discernment and grace.

In this episode Ronn and Mike explore the story of Joseph's trials in prison, considering how his experience speaks to the universal experience of suffering. They discuss how Joseph's faith and character became evident in a situation which was not of his own doing. Their conversation also touches on the broader theological implications of suffering and God's presence in difficult times. They conclude by looking forward to the implications of Joseph's story for his brothers and future studies.

Translator           Translator   In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 37-39, the beginning of the Jospeh narrative. They highlight the significance of Joseph's garment, the deception of the brothers which spanned two decades, and Judah's ironic transformation. The discussion also touches on the nature of sin, the essence of discipleship, and the character of Joseph as seen through Potiphar's eyes.

Translator     In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the curious situation of Esau. It can be argued, with a fair amount of certainty, that Easu did not worship Yahweh but instead chose to become loyal to other gods. This will be the primary reason that, in the end, the prophets can say that Jacob is "loved" by Yahweh while Esau is "hated" by him (Malachi 1:2-3). Yahweh will still show authority over Esau (and the god that controls the land of Seir, the territory owned by Esau), ultimately bestowing riches upon this man and his family.

Translator           What happens when a life of chaos transforms into a mission to change lives? In this episode of Divine Council Worldview, Mel and Rich sit down with Jorge Gil—a producer, host, and all round workhorse behind not only this podcast, but also the podcast series, 'I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist' and 'Rara Biblia.' Jorge's story is one of dramatic transformation, from a troubled youth in Costa Rica to finding faith in the most unlikely place: a jail cell. There, he discovered a calling to apologetics that would shape his life and ministry. The episode dives deep into Jorge's journey, including his discovery of Michael Heiser's groundbreaking work, his mission to bring these teachings to Spanish-speaking audiences, and the divine connections that shaped his path. Listen in as the hosts explore the profound legacy of Michael Heiser—his mentorship, authenticity, and relentless focus on community over accolades. Jorge, Mel, and Rich share heartfelt reflections on leadership, the importance of empathy, and the power of relationships in ministry. But it doesn't stop there. The episode also tackles key challenges of modern ministry: how to engage younger generations with theology, the cultural lens of supernatural beliefs, and innovative digital outreach to Latin America. Jorge unveils exciting educational initiatives and highlights the role of sacred space in evangelism, painting a hopeful picture for the future of the global church. This conversation will inspire you to reflect on your own journey and the lasting impact one life can have on countless others. Don't miss this powerful episode packed with wisdom, faith, and practical insights for anyone passionate about ministry and community.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis chapters 33-34, exploring themes of reconciliation, morality, and divine intervention. They review Jacob's reunion with Esau, the implications of the Dinah incident, and the theological significance of Jacob's journey back to Bethel. The conversation highlights the complexities of faith, the nature of God, and the moral dilemmas faced by biblical characters, all while emphasizing the importance of understanding the cultural and historical context of the scriptures.

Translator         In this episode, Ronn and Mike talk through the complexities of Jacob's story in Genesis, focusing on the themes of divine encounters, the complex nature of Jacob's relationship to his god, and the significance of the human/divine wrestling match of Genesis 32. They explore the implications of the two powers in heaven concept, as well as the theological ramifications of Jacob's name change to Israel. The discussion highlights the intricate dynamics of faith, identity, and divine interaction in the biblical narrative.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the "Two Powers in Heaven" controversy that developed among Jewish rabbis in the early centuries after Christ. They begin by explaining how Judaism reacted both in favor of and also against the idea of Yahweh "sharing" his power with another being in the Old Testament. This then turns the conversation, of course, to the person of Jesus and how he was viewed by first century Christians. Was Jesus Christ Yahweh's "second power"? The conversation touches on relevant texts such as Daniel 7 and Exodus 24 before moving into key NT texts and their relationship to contemporary faith and theology. Resources mentioned: Two Powers in Heaven: Early Rabbinic Reports about Christianity and Gnosticism by Alan Segal Boyarin, Daniel, “Two Powers in Heaven; or, The Making of a Heresy,” Pages 331-370 in The Idea of Biblical Interpretation: Essays in Honor of James L. Kugel. Leiden: Brill, 2003 The Glory of the Invisible God: Two Powers in Heaven Traditions and Early Christology (Jewish and Christian Texts) by Andrei Orlov Israel's LORD: YHWH as "Two Powers" in Second Temple Literature by David E. Wilhite, Adam Winn Two Powers in Judaism in Second Temple Texts w/Dr. Michael Heiser

Translator           In this episode, Bryan's story is one of resilience, faith, and profound healing. He candidly recounts the highs and lows of his life—from the challenges of childhood, through the grip of addiction, to the heartbreaking loss of his son, Wesley. His journey highlights how faith, supported by a loving community, can lead to recovery and transformation. Inspired by Dr. Heiser's teachings, Bryan advocates for a church that embodies love over condemnation, emphasizing the unshakable truth that the divine image within us is never lost. This episode is an inspiring reminder that no matter your past, there is always a path toward healing and hope when faith and recovery unite.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 28 and the story of Jacob's ladder. They understand the staircase to symbolize the access that divine messengers had between heaven and earth, a “divine portal” of sorts, reminiscent of Genesis 11 and the Tower of Babel. Is it possible that certain locations on earth may serve as gateways or portals to the spiritual realm? The biblical significance of such places as Bethel and Jerusalem seem to point in that direction. The episode concludes with the story of Jacob's marriage to Leah and Rachel, highlighting Leah's loyalty to Yahweh and her role in the formation of the twelve tribes of Israel.

Translator           In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 27 and Isaac's mistaken blessing of Jacob over Esau. They begin by noting the cultural significance of a father blessing a favored son, and discuss possible reasons for Isaac's decision to bless Esau over Jacob. They then walk through the narrative itself, especially taking note of how Jacob's decision to say “your elohim” to his father fit the theology of his non-Yahwist brother. It is interesting that the Quran does not record this incident between the brothers at all. The conversation concludes with a discussion on Jacob's journey of faith and his tenuous path to Yahweh worship.

Translator           In this episode, Rich and Mel interview Dr. Natalie Atwell, a therapist and adjunct professor, reveals how she integrates the Divine Counsel worldview into her counseling practice. She passionately discusses her work in missions and caregiver ministry, highlighting the significance of understanding spiritual warfare and the supernatural when addressing trauma and mental health. The conversation explores cultural challenges in ministry, the impact of mysticism and superstition abroad, and the urgent need for the church to confront spiritual abuse and offer healing environments. Dr. Atwell also touches on loving others through disagreements, the rise of narcissism in the church, and the vital support needed for missionaries. Through her book, I Can Do Anything in the Right Pair of Shoes, Dr. Atwell inspires listeners to put on the armor of God, foster godly relationships, and embark on a journey to discover their true identity in Christ.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 25 & 26. They open their conversation by mentioning the “two powers in heaven” idea that will be the subject of a future episode. They note that the genealogy of Ishmael plays a significant role in the Jew-Gentile divide throughout history. They also discuss the early relationship between Jacob and Esau, preparing to question which god these men worship according the biblical record. They conclude by exploring the themes of God's involvement in human mistakes, the significance of name and their meanings in ancient culture, and the question of God's knowledge of the future.

Translator           In this episode, Ronn and Mike consider Genesis 23 & 24, where Abraham puts his final affairs in order by finding a bride for Isaac. Throughout their discussion they explore the concept of the phrase “the god of” as applied to the stories of Isaac and Ishmael, the role of divine messengers during Eliezer's search for Isaac's bride, and the significance of Yahweh's name and character for those who are committed to following him.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the famous “Akeda” story in Genesis 22, where Abraham obeyed the command of God to sacrifice his son Isaac. They consider the theological questions raised by this story, such as why God would ask Abraham to commit murder—and why Abraham would obey. The conversation touches on the cultural context of child sacrifice and the evolving understanding of Yahweh's character by those who are committed to worship him above every god. They also discuss the concept the possibility of divine “portals,” or specific locations where divine beings have made contact with humans. They conclude by wondering whether the substitution portrayed in the binding of Isaac is a symbol for Jesus' death.

In this episode, Rich and Mel interview Fern and Audrey, who share their work helping survivors of trauma-based mind control, reflecting on their personal experiences and the impact of Dr. Mike Heiser's Divine Council worldview, especially through his books, *The Myth That is True*, *The Facade* and *The Portent*. They explore the complexities of dissociation, discussing how different parts of a person's identity function and how to discern between dissociated personalities and demonic possession. Fern shares a powerful story about working with a survivor of satanic ritual abuse, highlighting the challenges of spiritual discernment. Throughout the conversation, they stress the importance of love, empathy, and understanding in the healing process, and the critical need for education and training to address spiritual abuse in churches.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 20 and 21, examining the birth of Isaac and the relationship between Ishmael and Isaac. They work through the significance of Ishmael in the biblical narrative, as well as the meaning of the terms 'righteous' and 'election' in the OT. They agree that there is ambiguity surrounding the identity of the divine being in the story of Abraham and Ishmael, raising questions about loyalty and divine interaction.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 19 and the destruction of Sodom. They explore how a divine council worldview arises directly from the cultural context of the ancient Near East when working through this narrative. They conclude their discussion by thinking through the significance of the Hebrew word 'chesed' and the tragic outcome for Lot and his daughters.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore Genesis 18's story of Abraham and Sarah being told by three messengers that they would soon bear a son to fulfill the promises of God. The biggest shock of the story, of course, will be to hear one of the visitors speak as though he is Yahweh! Ronn and Mike consider the possible options for identifying this messenger, leaning into the relationship ejoyned between messengers and senders as practiced in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The episode also considers what Abraham likely understood by his use of the important words righteous and wicked (18:25).

In this episode, Rich and Mel interview Pastor Anthony Delgado of Palmdale Church, California, who dives deep into the transformative power of Dr. Michael Heiser's Divine Council worldview and its impact on his predominantly Hispanic, working-class congregation. Anthony shares how his church has woven this theology into their structure, striking a unique balance between formality and community. From addressing real-life challenges like substance abuse to creating an inclusive environment for special needs families, Pastor Delgado discusses the importance of discipleship, allegiance to Christ, and expanding our understanding of the Gospel. A powerful conversation on faith, transformation, and the role of Jesus as Christus Victor.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 17 and the story of Ishmael. They explore the possibility that Ishamel made a covenant with a divine being other than Yahweh, even a god disloyal to Yahweh. They discuss the theological and historical implications of this view, particularly in relation to the rise of Muslim tradition and its attachment to Ishmael. The episode concludes with a discussion on the significance of circumcision, its meaning in the ancient world, and its possible significance as a sign of the covenant between Abraham and Yahweh.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 16 and the being known as "the Angel of the Lord." They begin by acknowledging that differences of opinion will be common when dealing with the word 'angel,' the transliteration of a Latin word appearing in the Wycliffe Bible of the 14th century. Ronn argues that 'angel' does not accurately represent the Hebrew term for 'messenger' (mal'ak) because it has become packed with unhelpful connotations of meaning over time. Ronn and Mike conclude the podcast by exploring the use of first person speech patterns used by messengers (both human and divine) in the ancient Near East.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike conclude their study of Genesis 15. Their topics of conversation include the meaning of righteousness and its connection to loyalty and promise-keeping in the story of Abraham. They also consider the significance of the land promise as the early patriarchs understood it and how it evolves throughout the biblical narrative. They conclude with an exploration of the concept of "nationing" and the possible role of borders in the new creation.

Step into a world where the supernatural intersects with everyday life. In this episode, Mel is once again joined with co-host, Rich, as they interview Pastor Jim Bergen from Flatirons Community Church, Boulder, CO, and delve into the journey of his awakening to a worldview shaped by the Divine Council and its profound impact on our reality. Imagine the transformative power when this perspective infuses teaching, discipleship, and spiritual warfare within the church. Yet, bringing this understanding into congregational life isn't without challenges. It demands careful preparation, defining terms, and exploring the significance of sacred spaces. But how does this cosmic perspective translate into practical application? Discover how recognizing our creation in God's image influences our approach in society and shapes how we treat others with dignity. Moreover, the church isn't just a place of worship; it's a beacon for addressing social challenges and making a positive impact in our communities through both teaching and action. Explore the cosmic geography of peace and its pivotal role in both personal lives and the church's engagement with society - embracing the importance of confronting life's dark and challenging aspects head-on. Join us as we navigate the messy and difficult topics that often go unaddressed, guided by a commitment to deep Bible study that will help you make divine council worldview teachings accessible even to new believers. Don't miss out on this eye-opening journey that promises to reshape your understanding of faith, community, and the supernatural forces at play in our world today.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the concept of Abraham's righteousness as won through his allegiance to Yahweh in the story of Genesis 15. They explore the idea of believing loyalty (Hebrew, aman) and how it is often misunderstood in evangelical circles when defining the gospel. They highlight the importance of understanding the OT cultural context behind the concept of faith, even recommending that we take the English word "faith" out of our vocabulary when trying to explain the story of Abraham's commitment to Yahweh. The conversation concludes by summarizing the NT meaning of what it means to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.

In this episode Ronn and Mike discuss the meeting of Abraham and Melchizedek in Genesis 14, even considering whether this kind of story supports the idea of divine portals or “heavenly gates” in the biblical narrative (Gen 12:8; 13:4; 28:11-12; 35:7). Most interesting to this story, of course, is their joint realization that they worshipped the same deity (el-elyon, ‘the high god' cp. Pss 9:2; 7:17; 82:6; Isaiah 14:14; Luke 1:20, 32). This suggests that Yahweh (who had not revealed his name to either man at this point) was actively working behind the scenes in the lives of both individuals long before they met.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike recommend that Genesis 12 and 13—the story of Abraham beginning to worship Yahweh while rejecting his tribal gods of Babylon—sets the framing story for the Bible as a whole. These early narratives are not concerned with sin and forgiveness, in other words, nor even the expectation of a Messiah. They instead answer the question of which deity a person needs to worship in order to be blessed and to be a blessing to others. It is suggested that a Creation/Covenants/Crisis model of the Old Testament's big story should replace the Creation/Crisis/Covenant outline that we so often hear about. The stories of Genesis 12 & 13 tell of a normal man facing natural fears who yet covenants with the right god. The fact that Yahweh would have been understood as a minority (even unknown) deity at this point makes the plot all the more fascinating.

Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and equipped to make a difference in the world around you! In this episode, Mel delves into the transformative power of meaningful interactions and the importance of open minds and hearts when sharing Biblical insights. He emphasizes putting knowledge into action in making disciples, urging listeners to share their personal stories of divine guidance in everyday moments. Mel expounds on missionary work, highlighting that it's not just about far-off lands, but also about nurturing relationships within our own families. Amidst the discussion, Mel navigates the poignant absence of his co-host Rich, who has been battling medical issues and will be back in future episodes, reminding us all of the power of prayer and support. Tune in to discover how you can be part of God's grand plan and make a lasting impact right where you are!

In this episode, Ronn and Mike recommend that the principal problem of mankind as described up through Genesis 11—the worldwide worship of other gods—begins to meet its solution in Genesis 12 as a covenant is cut between Abram and Yahweh. The promise of this agreement, requiring faithfulness from both parties, included both individual prosperity for Abram and ultimate blessing for the entire world. In conclusion, it is recommended that the climax to this story is signaled through Abram's “calling on the name of Yahweh” (12:8) as opposed to any of the deities he had worshipped in Babylon. The Bible's most famous convert now awaits a family and an eternal inheritance.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike consider the famous story of the Tower of Babel, recommending that the purpose of the Tower was the worship of (and desire to make covenant with) created deities. They note that this event, especially in light of what it signifies in the larger story of the Bible, stands behind the problem that the New Testament gospel will someday solve—the “healing of the nations” (Revelation 22:2) through the unified worship of Yahweh and his Son Jesus Christ.

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 10's genealogical record between Noah and Abraham. They begin by noting that the story of the curse of Canaan (Ham's son) likely lays the foundation for Joshua's later confrontation with pagan worhsip in land of Canaan. They then work their way through the lists of names and tribes in Genesis 10, observing the geographical locations settled by the sons of Noah. More importantly, they show how the text hints toward the loss of Yahweh-worship during this critical period of history. The episode ends at the foot of the Tower of Babel, predicting how this event will lead not only to the division of human language, but to the establishment of the worship of other gods through the known world.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion as we delve into personal journeys shaped by 'The Unseen Realm' and the profound impact of the supernatural on missions. Delve into the intriguing intersections of superstition, idolatry, and missionary work across diverse cultures. From pagan traditions in Christianity to demon possession in India, we explore how context shapes our understanding of scripture and the global dissemination of the Biblical message with knowledge. Uncover the epic narrative of the Bible alongside similar tales worldwide, while examining the crucial role of like-minded communities and the influence of fatherhood in our quest to spread the message of salvation.