The Humble Skeptic

Jesus' words and deeds are best interpreted in the light of the Old Testament Scripture. Thus, the fact that Jesus said at the temple, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink” (Jn 7:37), makes much more sense when read alongside Exodus 17, in which Yahweh provided life-giving water to the thirsty Israelites. On this program, Shane takes a deep dive into John 7-9 with the help of New Testament scholar Andreas Köstenberger. After discussing the rich Old Testament background that helps to illuminate John's meaning, the two also discuss whether the story of the woman caught in adultery is an authentic part of the Fourth Gospel or a later addition.SPECIAL OFFER — If you upgrade to a PAID subscription or make a GIFT of any size, we'll send you a downloadable PDF copy of Luke's Key Witness (shown below). When you subscribe, you'll get instant access to the book here (it's currently behind a paywall). If you choose the donation option, you'll receive the PDF via email. Click the image below for a preview. Thanks for your support!SHOW NOTESBooksSigns of the Messiah, Andreas J. KöstenbergerEncountering John, Andreas J. KöstenbergerA Theology of John's Gospel & Letters, Andreas J. KöstenbergerThe Jesus of the Gospels, Andreas J. KöstenbergerTruth Matters, Köstenberger, Bock & ChatrawCommentary on the NT Use of the OT, Carson, Beale & KöstenbergerEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonThe Angel of the Lord, Matt Foreman & Doug Van DornThe Lamb of God: Seeing Jesus in Exodus, Nancy GuthrieJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinLuke's Key Witness, Shane RosenthalArticlesThe Date of John's Gospel: Are We Witnessing a Paradigm Shift? Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: The Story of Exodus, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating the Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalWhat's the Point of Jesus' Parable of the Rich Man & Lazarus? Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalA New Argument for John's Identity, Shane RosenthalAudioThe Messiah's Redemptive Mission, Humble Skeptic #72The Angel of Yahweh, Humble Skeptic #70 with Foreman & Van DornThe Sinai Inscriptions, Humble Skeptic #71 with Michael S. Bar-RonDid The Exodus Ever Happen? Humble Skeptic #69 with David RohlJacob's Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, Humble Skeptic Episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, Humble Skeptic #68 Jewish Views of the Messiah, HS #38 with Daniel BoyarinStories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? HS #61 with Peter J. WilliamsWhich John Wrote John? Humble Skeptic #50VideoLuke's Key Witness, Shane Rosenthal on The Alisa Childers Podcast Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

In 1833, Thomas Starkie observed, “It so rarely happens that witnesses of the same transaction perfectly and entirely agree in all points connected with it, that an entire and complete coincidence in every particular…engenders suspicion.” On this special Easter edition of the podcast, Shane airs an interview he recorded with Lydia McGrew about differences that exist between the four Gospels related to Jesus' resurrection, and whether those differences can be reconciled.SHOW NOTESArticlesConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalJoanna: Luke's Key Witness? Shane RosenthalBart Ehrman on Jesus & The Claim of Resurrection, Shane RosenthalPassover & The Last Supper, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalAre We Witnessing a Paradigm Shift on John's Gospel? Shane RosenthalThe Compelling Nature of Corroborated Testimony, Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalWhat is the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible?, Shane RosenthalBooksTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewHidden in Plain View, Lydia McGrewThe Mirror or the Mask, Lydia McGrewJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamEaster Enigma, John WenhamThe Doubters Guide to Jesus, John DicksonCan We Trust the Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsOn The Resurrection Vol. 1: Evidences, Gary HabermasOn The Resurrection Vol. 2: Refutations, Gary HabermasAudioFake or Authentic? with Lydia McGrewAuthenticating the Book of Acts, with Lydia McGrewThe Messiah's Redemptive Mission, Shane RosenthalStories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? with Peter J. WilliamsAre The Gospels History or Fiction? with John DicksonIs John's Gospel Late & Unreliable?, with Daniel WallaceThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, with Richard BauckhamLocating Golgotha, with David RohlEvidential Reasoning, with Craig PartonDealing with Discrepancies, with J. Warner WallaceThe Jesus of History & The Gospel CreedVideoThe Resurrection of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsPeter J. Williams vs Bart Ehrman on the Reliablity of the NTThe Tools & Rules of History, with Gary Habermas, David McIlroy & Shane RosenthalMark Lanier moderated this panel discussion at the Lanier Theological Library in Houston Texas. The forum was inspired by the release of two exhaustive volumes on the historicity of Jesus' Resurrection by Dr. Habermas: On The Resurrection Vol. 1: Evidences, and On The Resurrection Vol. 2: Refutations.Who Is Jesus? Bridging Diverse Voices, St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this Christian / Muslim conversation which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus' identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.Share with Friends & FamilyIf you're a fan of the show, please share with others and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this episode Shane discusses a number of scenes from the book of Exodus and shows how they point to Christ and his ultimate redemptive mission. Jesus is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world, the bread of life, the living water, the light of the world, and the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep.SHOW NOTESArticlesFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: The Story of Exodus, Shane RosenthalPassover, The Last Supper & The Day of Crucifixion, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalBart Ehrman on Jesus & The Claim of Resurrection, Shane RosenthalDid Palm Trees Grow in Jerusalem at the Time of Jesus? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John's Gospel: Are We Witnessing a Paradigm Shift? Shane RosenthalJoanna: Luke's Key Witness? Shane RosenthalBookesEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonThe Angel of the Lord, Matt Foreman & Doug Van DornChrist in All of Scripture (5 Book Series), Foreman & Van DornThe Lamb of God: Seeing Jesus in Exodus, Nancy GuthrieJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Targums & John's Logos Theology, John RonningA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaAudioThe Angel of Yahweh, Humble Skeptic. #70 with Foreman & Van DornThe Sinai Inscriptions, Humble Skeptic #71 with Michael S. Bar-RonDid The Exodus Ever Happen? Humble Skeptic #69 with David RohlJacob's Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, Humble Skeptic Episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, Humble Skeptic #68 How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Iain DuguidWere Jews Expecting a Suffering Messiah? Shane RosenthalJewish Views of the Messiah, with Daniel BoyariinStories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? with Peter J. WilliamsThe Jesus of History & The Gospel CreedLocating Golgotha, with David RohlVideoThe Tools & Rules of History, with Gary Habermas, David McIlroy & Shane RosenthalOn November 8th, 2024, trial attorney Mark Lanier moderated this panel discussion at the Lanier Theological Library in Houston Texas. The forum was inspired by the release of two exhaustive volumes on the historicity of Jesus' Resurrection by Dr. Habermas: On The Resurrection Vol. 1: Evidences, and On The Resurrection Vol. 2: Refutations.Who Is Jesus? Bridging Diverse Voices, St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this Christian / Muslim conversation which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus' identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.Share with Friends & FamilyIf you're a fan of the show, please share with others and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Click here for more information. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this episode, Shane talks with Michael S. Bar-Ron about his research project related to the Sinai inscriptions discovered throughout the Sinai Peninsula. Though these inscriptions resemble Egyptian hieroglyphs, they're actually written in what scholars refer to as “proto-Sinaitic” or “proto-Alphabetic” script. Michael Bar-Ron has been working on these inscriptions for the better part of a decade and argues that they are best treated as a form of paleo-Hebrew. In fact, when they are read this way, they end up providing external corroboration for some of the details recorded in the book of Exodus.SHOW NOTESRelated BooksResearches in Sinai, W.M. Flinders Petrie — FREEThe Inscriptions of Sinai, Alan H. Gardiner — FREELegendary Kings, David Rohl (e-book)Exodus: Myth or History? David Rohl (e-book)Redating the Exodus & Conquest, John BimsonBiblical Archaeology, David E. GravesThe Ancient Near East, James B. Pritchard (ed.)Related ArticlesThe Golden Calf, David RohlSinai 351 & 360, Michael S. Bar-RonThe Mt. Ebal Curse Tablet, Michael S. Bar-RonThe Seal of Joseph, Michael S. Bar-RonThe Origins of Israel in Canaan, John BimsonArchaeological Data & The Dating of the Patriarchs, John BimsonThe Cylinder Seal from Tell el-Dab'a, Edith PoradaHebrew: The World's Oldest Alphabet, Douglas PetrovichA Cuneiform Cylinder of Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine: An Archaeological Assessment, Shane RosenthalRelated AudioDid The Exodus Ever Happen? Humble Skeptic #69 with David RohlQuestioning Conventional Wisdom (1), HS #13 with David RohlQuestioning Conventional Wisdom (2), HS #14 with David RohlLocating Golgotha, Humble Skeptic #17 with David RohlThe Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 with J. Daniel HaysFaith Founded on Facts, HS #15 with Lennox, Bauckham, etc.The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic #12Babylon, Humble Skeptic #66Related VideoMichael Bar-Ron on the Sinai Inscriptions, Patterns of EvidenceDavid Rohl on the Sinai Inscriptions, Patterns of EvidenceThe First Alphabet, Patterns of EvidenceThe Moses Controversy, Patterns of EvidenceA to Z: The First Alphabet, Nova (PBS)The Mt. Ebal Curse Tablet (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6)The Cylinder Seal Discovered at Tell el-Dab'aTo contribute to Michael Bar-Ron's GoFundMe campaign: Click HereUPCOMING EVENTSThe Messianic Hope, Memphis, TN, April 11-13Shane Rosenthal will be giving a series of talks related to Christ's fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy at this weekend conference in Rosemark, TN. Click here for more information.Who Is Jesus? Bridging Diverse Voices, St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this Christian / Muslim conversation which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus' identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.Share with Friends & FamilyIf you're a fan of the show, please tell others about the show, and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Click here for more information. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

According to Ex. 13:21, as the people of Israel made their way out of Egypt, we're told that Yahweh went before the people of Israel in a pillar of cloud and fire. What's odd, however, is that the next chapter tells us it was the “angel of God” who went before the host of Israel in the pillar (Ex 4:19). So, how do we explain the difference between these two passages? Did an angel lead the people out of Egypt, or was it Yahweh himself? On this episode, Shane discusses these questions and more with Matt Foreman and Doug Van Dorn, authors of The Angel of the Lord: A Biblical, Historical, and Theological Study.For a gift of any amount to help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast, we'll send you a 12-page PDF resource titled “Finding Christ in All of Scripture.” Click here for a preview.SHOW NOTESRelated BooksThe Angel of the Lord, Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonEchoes of Exodus: Tracing the Theme of Redemption, Roberts & WilsonJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate, Slavery, Power & Forgiveness, John LennoxThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Targums & John's Logos Theology, John RonningA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaRelated ArticlesFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: The Story of Exodus, Shane RosenthalIsaiah's Prophecy of the Messiah's Birth, Shane RosenthalPassover & The Last Supper, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalWhat's the Most Important Thing in the Bible?, Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalAudioJewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel BoyarinJacob's Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63 with Richard Bauckham and othersBabylon, Humble Skeptic Episode #66 Decoding the Prophecies of Daniel, Humble Skeptic #68 Were Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah?, WHI #1243 with Craig EvansHow to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Iain DuguidWhat Did The Earliest Christians Believe? HS #25 with Dennis JohnsonThe Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 with J. Daniel HaysStories of Jesus: Can They Be Trusted? HS #61 with Peter J. WilliamsThe Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic Episode #9UPCOMING EVENTSThe Messianic Hope, Memphis, TN, April 11-13Shane Rosenthal will be giving a series of talks related to Christ's fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy at this weekend conference in Rosemark, TN. Click here for more information.Who Is Jesus?: Bridging Diverse Voices, St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this Christian / Muslim conversation which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus' identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.Share with Friends & FamilyIf you're a fan of the show, please tell others about the show, and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

The foundational narrative behind Christ's death, burial, and resurrection is the story of Exodus. After all, Jesus is presented in the Gospels as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” and was put to death on the eve of Passover. But what if the Israelite exodus from Egypt never really happened? On this episode, Shane talks with Egyptologist David Rohl about why so many contemporary scholars conclude that Israel's foundational story is rooted in mythology, and why they are blind to clear and convincing evidence in support of the Exodus narrative.Click Here to listen to Shane's interview with John Lennox about the meaning and significance of the story of Joseph (WHI #1582).SHOW NOTESRelated BooksExodus: Myth or History? David RohlLegendary Kings, David RohlRedating the Exodus & Conquest, John Bimson — FREEWhen Did It Happen? John BimsonBiblical Archaeology, David E. GravesThe Ancient Near East, James B. Pritchard (ed.)Echoes of The Exodus, Wilson & RobertsJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate & Forgiveness, John LennoxThe Complete Works of Josephus, Flavius JosephusRelated ArticlesIs The Exodus a Myth? Bart Ehrman (cited in commentary)The Origins of Israel in Canaan, John BimsonArchaeological Data & The Dating of the Patriarchs, John BimsonArchaeological Discoveries Related to Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William RamsayThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootAuthenticating the Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalThe Date of John's Gospel: Are We Witnessing a Paradigm Shift? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalOutside the Gospels, What Can We Really Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year: A Brief Account of the Exodus, Shane RosenthalRelated AudioQuestioning Conventional Wisdom (1), Humble Skeptic #13 with David RohlQuestioning Conventional Wisdom (2), Humble Skeptic #14 with David RohlLocating Golgotha, Humble Skeptic #17 with David RohlJohn Lennox on the Story of Joseph, White Horse Inn #1582Stories of Jesus: Can We Trust Them? Humble Skeptic #61 with Peter J. WilliamsAre The Gospels History or Fiction? Humble Skeptic #52 with John DicksonIs John's Gospel Late & Unreliable?, Humble Skeptic #51 with Daniel WallaceQuestioning The Fourth Gospel, Humble Skeptic #49 with Richard BauckhamThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48 with Richard BauckhamFaith Founded on Facts (1), Humble Skeptic #15Faith Founded on Facts (2), Humble Skeptic #16Related VideoPatterns of Evidence: Exodus, featuring David RohlThe David Rohl LecturesUPCOMING EVENTSThe Messianic Hope, Memphis, TN, April 11-13Shane Rosenthal will be giving a series of talks related to Christ's fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy at this weekend conference in Rosemark, TN. Click here for more information.Who Is Jesus?: Bridging Diverse Voices, St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this Christian / Muslim conversation which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus' identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.Share with Friends & FamilyIf you're a fan of the show, please tell others about the show, and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this episode, Shane explores some of the fascinating prophecies found in the book of Daniel and discusses how they have been interpreted (and misinterpreted) both before and after the time of Jesus. He also interacts with audio clips related to this subject from interviews he's recorded with Talmud scholar Daniel Boyarin, and New Testament scholar, Craig Evans.SHOW NOTESRelated ArticlesDeciphering the Clues of Revelation, Shane RosenthalArchaeological Discoveries Related to Nebuchadnezzar II, Shane RosenthalJustin Martyr on the Importance of Fulfilled Prophecy, Shane RosenthalIsaiah's Prophecy of the Messiah's Birth, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy: An Exploration of Micah 5:2, Shane RosenthalSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel, Quotes from Eusebius, Augustine & othersWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalExploring Covenant Theology, Mike Brown & Zach KeeleRelated BooksThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinSon of Man in Early Jewish Literature, Richard BauckhamGuide to the Dead Sea Scrolls, Craig EvansThe Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansThe Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaA Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Darrell Bock & othersJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonChrist From Beginning to End, Hunter & WellumRelated AudioBabylon, Humble Skeptic #66Jewish Views of the Messiah, HS #38 with Daniel BoyarinWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah? WHI #1243 with Craig EvansWere Jews Expecting a Suffering Messiah?, HS #47How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Iain DuguidWhat Did the Earliest Christians Believe? HS #25The Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 with J. Daniel HaysThe Intersection of Church & State, HS #53 with David VanDrunenWhy Should We Trust The Bible? HS #39 with Mike FarleyHow to Read & Interpret the Bible, HS #37 with Mike BrownJacob's Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63UPCOMING EVENTSThe Messianic Hope, Memphis, TN, April 11-13Shane Rosenthal will be giving a series of talks related to Christ's fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy at this weekend conference in Rosemark, TN. The conference is free, but registration is required (a registration page and more info will be available soon).Who Is Jesus? (A Christian & Muslim Conversation), St. Louis, MO, April 24th.Shane Rosenthal and Michael McClymond will be defending the historic Christian view of Jesus at this event which will take place at St. Louis Community College Meramec (located at 11333 Big Bend Rd, in Kirkwood, MO). The purpose is to highlight some of the differences between Christian and Muslim perspectives related to Jesus' identity and mission and to take questions from students. This event is brought to you by St. Louis Community College in partnership with ReThink315. Click here for more info.A Trip to the Museum?Right now we're gaging interest for trips to museums in the St. Louis and Chicago areas sometime this spring or summer. The St. Louis Art Museum and the University of Chicago's Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures (formerly known as The Oriental Institute of Chicago) have impressive collections of fascinating historical artifacts related to the Ancient Near East. The museums are free, but there will likely be a modest registration fee to cover meal(s), etc. Following the museum tour, Shane will lecture on a related topic. Let us know below if you're interested in joining us for one or both of these events.Share with Friends & FamilyIf you're a fan of the show, please tell others about the show, and consider posting a link to this episode via your social media feed. Just copy the URL of this page, paste it into your feed, and write a few words. Also, consider writing a positive review of this podcast via the Apple Podcast app, or your preferred podcast portal. The more reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Thanks for your help!Make a One-Time Gift or Upgrade to a Paid SubscriptionConsider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Shane concluded the last episode with a brief clip from an interview he recorded years ago with respected author and theologian, J.I. Packer. On this program, he decided to feature more of that conversation, while also weaving together other interviews and man-on-the-street segments related to the prevalence of narcissistic beliefs and attitudes in American Christianity.SHOW NOTESBooksKnowing God, J.I. PackerSoul Searching, Christian SmithChristless Christianity, Michael HortonReaching Out Without Dumbing Down, Marva DawnPeculiar Speech, Peculiar Speech, William WillimonThe Christian Mind, Harry BlamiresThe Narcissism Epidemic, Twenge & CampbellChristianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham MachenCreed or Chaos? by Dorothy Sayers — FREEArticlesThe Story of Us, Shane RosenthalThe Megachurch Century, Shane RosenthalThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture (PDF), Shane RosenthalLiberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham MachenThe Importance of Christian Scholarship, by J. Gresham MachenTheologically, This Country is in a State of Utter Chaos, Dorothy SayersWhy Johnny Can't Preach, T. David GordonAudioJacob's Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63Babylon, Humble Skeptic #65The Earliest Gospel, Humble Skeptic. #45The Effect of Media & Technology, Humble Skeptic #30Grounded in the Gospel, WHI #986 with J.I. PackerAn Interview with R.C. Sproul, WHI #909The Preached Word, WHI 972 with William WillimonTeen Spirituality, WHI #730 with Christian SmithAlmost Christian, WHI #1017 with Kenda Creasy DeanGetting Over Yourself, WHI #1588 with Dean InserraThe Narcissism Epidemic, WHI #956 with Jean TwengeVideoAmerican Gospel: Christ AloneAmerican Gospel: Christ CrucifiedWe Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Wherever we find references to Babylon in the Bible, we're frequently reminded of man's failed attempt to ascend to the heavens. This is due in part to the fact that “Babel” and “Babylon” happen to be the same word in Hebrew. On this edition, Shane walks through a variety of Old Testament passages that relate to this theme and contrasts them with prophecies about Israel's coming Messiah.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksBabylonian Life & History, E.A. Wallis Budge—FREEGod Dwells Among Us, G.K. Beale & Mitchell KimThe Temple & The Tabernacle, J. Daniel HaysPierced for Our Transgressions, Andrew Sach & OthersThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Bock & GlaserBrave By Faith, Alistair BeggEchoes of Exodus, Roberts & WilsonHim We Proclaim, Dennis JohnsonRecommended ArticlesNebuchadnezzar & Archaeology, Shane Rosenthal (coming soon)Identifying Babylon The Great, Shane Rosenthal (coming soon)The Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalNew Life in the New Year, Shane RosenthalJustin Martyr on the Importance of Fulfilled Prophecy, Shane RosenthalIsaiah's Prophecy of the Messiah's Birth, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalRecommended AudioJacob's Ladder, with Richard Bauckham, Michael Horton & othersThe Intersection of Church & State, with David Van DrunenThe Big Picture, with J. Daniel HaysHow to Read & Interpret the Bible, with Mike BrownWorship in Spirit & Truth, with G.K. BealeJewish Views of the Messiah, with Daniel BoyarinWere Jews Expecting a Suffering Messiah? Life in a Post-Christian World, with Alistair BeggWe Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this year-end episode, Shane talks with Australian pop-singer Liam Cooper about their shared interest in the backstory of Billy Joel's song, Piano Man. Liam is the creator and frontman of a show called King of the Keys, which features the music of Billy Joel, Elton John, Paul McCartney and others. Earlier this year, Liam had plans to shoot a music video featuring the original piano used by Billy Joel at The Executive Room back in 1973—or so he thought. Shane's research has led him to re-evaluate things.SHOW NOTESRelated Episodes & ArticlesThe Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic #01New Evidence for The Executive Room, Humble Skeptic #55Evidential Reasoning, Humble Skeptic #56Dealing with Discrepancies, Humble Skeptic #57Is My Dad One of the Characters in Piano Man? Shane RosenthalThe Executive Room according to PopSpots, Bob EganHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalMusic & Video LinksProject Magic, Liam Cooper's wedding proposal videoKing of the Keys, Liam Cooper's websiteOut of the Blue, Liam Cooper music videoYellow, Coldplay music videoIf You Were Here, song by Liam CooperI Found The Executive Room Piano, an interview by Liam Cooper Carpool Karaoke, featuring Paul McCartney & James CordenChin Up, Tomorrow's a New Year, song by The Whiskey WaspsMinute to Midnight, song by Anthony LazaroIf you send a year-end gift of $50 or more before the end of the year(or sign up to become a monthly donor or subscriber) we'll send you our “Truth Isn't Afraid of Questions” mug! Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

This special Christmas edition of the podcast features Shane's man-on-the-street interviews that he recorded at a local Christmas festival. In particular, he asked whether the holiday, with all its memorable characters, is rooted in mythology, history, or a little of both. In the second half of the program, Shane reads selections from Justin Martyr's First Apology, which provides insight into the compelling nature of early Christian proclamation. SHOW NOTESArticlesIsaiah's Prophecy of the Messiah's Birth, Shane RosenthalThe Bethlehem Prophecy: An Exploration of Micah 5:2, Shane RosenthalSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All of Scripture (PDF), Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel (PDF), selections from Justin Martyr, Eusebius & AugustineFirst Apology of Justin Martyr, online text versionBooksThe Writings of Justin Martyr, hardback editionProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord, Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Darrell Bock & othersThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumSoul Searching, Christian SmithAudioThe First Apology of Justin Martyr, FREE AudiobookWhat Child Is This? A Christmas Message by Shane RosenthalJewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel BoyarinWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah? WHI 1243 with Craig EvansA Suffering Messiah? WHI-1564 with Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 1), WHI 1566 with Foreman & Van DornThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 2), WHI-1567 with Foreman & Van DornJacob's Ladder, Humble Skeptic #63Youth Ministry in Crisis, Christian Smith, J.I. Packer, Michael Horton & othersMusicCarol of the Bells, The Whiskey WaspsFor Unto Us, A Child Is Born, from Handel's MessiahSurely, He Hath Born Our Sins, from Handel's MessiahO Come, O Come Emmanuel, Ardie's SonIf you give $5 or more per month, we'll send you a mug for Christmas! Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this episode, Shane weaves together a variety of interviews he's recorded over the years related to Genesis 28 and the story of Jacob's ladder. In particular, the conversations focus on the way the narrative has been completely inverted to become another Tower of Babel tale of our ascent to God, rather than a prophecy of Christ's descent to us in mercy and grace.For a gift of any amount to help support the work of The Humble Skeptic podcast, we'll send you a 12-page PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal titled, “Finding Christ in All of Scripture.” For a preview of this helpful resource, click here. SHOW NOTESRelated BooksJesus in the Old Testament, Iain DuguidJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonWho is God? Richard BauckhamPutting Amazing Back Into Grace, Michael HortonJustification, Vo1. 1, Vol. 2, Michael HortonThe Angel of the Lord, Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanGenesis: Interpretation, Walter BrueggemannGod Dwells Among Us, G.K. Beale & Mitchell KimRelated ArticlesFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalBlessed Are the Pure in Heart? Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us, Shane RosenthalWhat's the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible? • Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalThe Application of Messianic Prophecy, Richard BauckhamAudio & VideoJacob's Ladder, R.C. Sproul (video)The Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic #09Jewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38 with Daniel Boyarin Were Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah?, WHI-1243 with Craig EvansHow to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI-1568 with Iain DuguidJacob's Ladder, WHI-207 with Michael HortonClimbing Jacob's Ladder, WHI-1454 with Sam Allberry & Caleb BassettThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 1), WHI-1566 with Foreman & Van DornThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 2), WHI-1567 with Foreman & Van DornStairway to Heaven, WHI-1578 with Michael HortonWe Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this episode, Shane talks with Peter J. Williams about his book, The Surprising Genius of Jesus, which primarily focuses on the parables of Luke 15. Shane discussed some of these parables on episode 43 earlier this year, but the insights provided by Williams merit a brand new investigation. In short, the more we notice Jesus' subtle allusions to the Old Testament, the more we'll understand his teaching and begin to appreciate the depth of his genius. Toward the end of the conversation, the two also discuss questions related to the date of John's Gospel in light of recent trends among New Testament scholars who are currently reassessing the late date hypothesis.SHOW NOTESBooksThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonThe Priority of John, John A.T. RobinsonRethinking the Dates of the New Testament, Jonathan BernierRedating Matthew, Mark & Luke, John WenhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamArticlesWas Jesus a Genius? Peter J. WilliamsFinding Christ in All of Scripture, Shane RosenthalParadigm Shift on The Date of John's Gospel? Shane RosenthalWas John The First Gospel? Ian PaulJohn 5:2 & The Date of The Fourth Gospel, Daniel WallaceWhy Are The Birth Stories of Jesus Different? Peter J. WilliamsAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalJohn 5:2 “There is in Jerusalem…”, Shane Rosenthal & othersVideo & AudioThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter Williams (video)Do The Gospels Tell the Same Story?, Peter Williams (video)Can the Old Testament Be Trusted Historically? Peter Williams (video)How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, WHI #1568 with Ian DuguidThe Gospel in Genesis, a WHI series hosted by Shane RosenthalRethinking Jesus' Parables, Humble Skeptic #43 with Scott ChurnockIs John Late & Unreliable? Humble Skeptic #51 with Daniel WallaceFor More Info About Peter Williams & Tyndale HousePeter Williams is the principal of Tyndale House, which is a Cambridge-based research institute housing one of the world's most advanced libraries for biblical scholarship. You can find them online at tyndalehouse.com.We Need Your Help!Donations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support us is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year (this option is not tax-deductible). Another way to help is to spread the word about The Humble Skeptic podcast! Thanks for your help, and Happy Thanksgiving! Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

What are we to make of the stories of Jesus recorded in the New Testament Gospels? Are they authentic accounts of his life and teaching, or collections of myths and legends that evolved over time? Shane discusses this with Cambridge New Testament scholar Peter J. Williams, principal of Tyndale House and author of Can We Trust the Gospels?SHOW NOTESBooksCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsThe Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History? John DicksonJesus: A Very Short Introduction, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamA Doubter's Guide To Jesus, John DicksonRevisiting the Corruption of the New Testament, Daniel WallaceRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonThe Gospel of John: A Newly Discovered Commentary, J.B. LightfootArticlesQuestions About New Testament Manuscripts, Peter J. WilliamsWhy Are The Birth Stories of Jesus Different? Peter J. WilliamsThe Gospels as Authentic Testimony, Richard BauckhamThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayOutside the Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane Rosenthal?Scribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalVideo & AudioCan We Trust the Gospels? Peter J. Williams (video)New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Evidence for the Resurrection, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable?, Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)Has the Bible Been Miscopied or Mistranslated? WHI #1377 with Daniel WallaceIs John Late & Unreliable? Humble Skeptic #51 with Daniel WallaceAre the Gospels History or Fiction? Humble Skeptic #52 with John DicksonThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48 with Richard BauckhamFake or Authentic? Humble Skeptic #10 with Lydia McGrewFaith & Proof, Humble Skeptic 7 with Mike FarleyThe Tools & Rules of HistoryOn Friday, November 8th, the Lanier Theological Library hosted a panel discussion at The Stone Chapel on The Tools and Rules of History: How Do We Know What Really Happened? This 90-minute session featured Gary Habermas, Shane Rosenthal, and David McIlroy and was moderated by Mark Lanier. This conversation was live-streamed and you can find the video here.For More Info About Peter Williams & Tyndale HousePeter Williams is the principal of Tyndale House, which is a Cambridge-based research institute housing one of the world's most advanced libraries for biblical scholarship. You can find them online at tyndalehouse.com.We Need Your Help!Help spread the word about The Humble Skeptic podcast by sending a link to your favorite episode to a friend or relative. Also, donations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support us is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year. FYI, this option is not tax-deductible. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Are miracles possible, or should they be seen as violations of natural laws that all scientifically minded people should reject? Is it true that most scientists reject God? What about faith? Should it be dismissed as a kind of of irrational leap that is essentially the opposite of critical thinking? Shane discusses these questions and more with MIT professor Ian Hutchinson, author of Can a Scientist Believe in Miracles?SHOW NOTESBooksCan A Scientist Believe in Miracles?, Ian HutchinsonMonopolizing Knowledge, Ian HutchinsonCan Science Explain Everything? John LennoxFinding Ultimate Reality John LennoxThe Return of the God Hypothesis, Stephen MeyerThe Case Against Accident & Self Organization, Dean OvermanArticlesScience & Faith: Allies or Enemies? John LennoxWhat is Faith? Shane RosenthalSignature in the Cell, Stephen MeyerIs Science Incompatible with Christianity? Derek RishmawyTaking Science on Faith, Paul DaviesSupersymmetry & The Crisis in Physics, Scientific AmericanHas Belief in God Harmed the Advancement of Science? Craig PartonVideosThe “Science Refutes God” Debate, Ian Hutchinson Lawrence Krauss & Michael ShermerCan A Scientist Believe in Miracles? Ian Hutchinson, Veritas Forum Is There Knowledge Outside of Science? Ian Hutchinson, Veritas Forum By Design, John Lennox, Michael Behe & Stephen Meyer, Uncommon KnowledgeStephen C. Meyer, The Joe Rogan ExperienceHas Science Buried God? John Lennox, Socrates in the CityDoes the Biblical Story of Creation Fit with Science? John LennoxAgainst the Tide, A documentary film featuring John LennoxAudioReturn of the God Hypothesis,  Shane Rosenthal & Stephen Meyer (WHI)The Multiverse & the Mystery of Life's Origin, Shane Rosenthal & Stephen Meyer (WHI)John Lennox on Faith & Science, Humble Skeptic #41John Lennon on The Problem of Evil, Humble Skeptic #42A Conversation About God, Jordan Peterson & John LennoxCan a Scientist Believe in the Resurrection? Rebecca McLaughlin & Ian HutchinsonWRITE A POSITIVE REVIEWIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get! SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

For two years, Steven Flo was filled with fear and despair. He retreated from the world and even began to hide from sunlight. In vampire-like fashion, he closed all his curtains and lived in what felt like a tomb. Even though he was a Lutheran pastor who often counseled others, during this period he was inconsolable, and began to despair about his own eternal state. If the Gospel was true, it was true for others, but not for him. On this episode, Shane talks with pastor Flo about his descent into darkness.SHOW NOTESRelated ArticlesAn Overview of TMS, Mayo ClinicWhat is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?, Cleveland ClinicLife & Death, Simonetta CarFaith & Mental Illness, Michael HortonWilliam Cowper: Depression & The Art of Hymn Writing, Barb DuguidRelated BooksThe Unseen Realm | Demons, Michael HeiserPrincipalities & Powers, John W. MontgomeryThe Proof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaThe Structure of Scientific Revolutions, Thomas KuhnThe Care of Souls, Harold SenkbeilRelated AudioFaith & Mental Illness, White Horse Inn #1213 Darkness My Only Companion, White Horse Inn #1214Death, Ghosts & Views of the Afterlife, Humble Skeptic #31UPCOMING EVENTS Troy, IllinoisOn Sunday, Nov. 3rd, Shane will be speaking at a youth event from 3:30 to 7:00 pm at Providence Presbyterian Church. Shane will be addressing the topics: “Is Faith Blind?” and “Are There Contradictions in the Gospels?” For more information about this youth event, send a text to 618-820-4908.Houston, TexasOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be speaking with Gary Habermas and others at the Lanier Theological Library. The discussion will be centered on the historicity of Jesus' resurrection as part of the 4th Annual John Warwick Montgomery Lecture in Evidential Apologetics. For more information about this event, click here.St. Charles, MissouriOn Sunday, Dec. 8th at 6 pm, Shane will discuss some of the challenges related to Luke's account of Jesus' birth. Some believe that the account of the census that took place in the days of Quirinius (Luke 2) is at odds with other known historical facts. Did Luke make a mistake or can the apparent contradiction be resolved? This discussion will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church (cpcopc.org).If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Jeremy Smith, founder of ReThink315, recently invited Shane to join him for a conversation at a fundraising dinner that took place here in the St. Louis area. During their conversation, Jeremy asked Shane to discuss his conversion to Christianity from a secular Jewish background, along with many other subjects that he frequently covers on The Humble Skeptic podcast. Later in the program, the two take a variety of questions from the audience.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksDefending The Faith, Michael Horton, Shane Rosenthal & OthersThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Proof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Bock & GlaserRevisiting the Corruption of The New Testament, Daniel WallaceRelated ArticlesUnity & Diversity in the New Testament, Shane RosenthalMicah 5:2 & The Bethlehem Prophecy, Shane RosenthalIt's Time to Forget “Faith,” Greg KouklFaith Is Not Wishing, Greg KouklWhat is Faith? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane RosenthalIs Faith a Feeling? Shane RosenthalRelated AudioRethinking Apologetics, Humble Skeptic #23 with Jeremy Smith The Pilot (Billy Joel Episode), Humble Skeptic #01New Evidence for The Executive Room, Humble Skeptic #55Evidential Reasoning, Humble Skeptic #56 with Craig PartonDealing with Discrepancies, Humble Skeptic #57 with J. Warner WallaceGreg Koukl on Blind Faith, Humble Skeptic #18Dealing with Doubt, Humble Skeptic #19UPCOMING EVENTS Troy, IllinoisOn Sunday, Nov. 3rd, Shane will be speaking at a youth event from 3:30 to 7:00 pm at Providence Presbyterian Church. Shane will be addressing the topics: “Is Faith Blind?” and “Are There Contradictions in the Gospels?” For more information about this event, send a text to 619-820-4908.Houston, TexasOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane has been invited to participate in a panel discussion with Gary Habermas and others on the historicity of Jesus' resurrection. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.St. Charles, MissouriOn Sunday, Dec. 8th at 6 pm, Shane will discuss some of the challenges related to Luke's account of Jesus' birth. Some believe that the account of the census that took place in the days of Quirinius (Luke 2) is at odds with other known historical facts. Did Luke make a mistake or can the apparent contradiction be resolved? This discussion will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church (cpcopc.org).If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

How should we deal with discrepancies as we piece together evidence on important matters of interest? On this episode Shane talks with retired cold-case detective, J. Warner Wallace about following the evidence wherever it leads, whether in attempting to solve murder cases, resolving disputed claims about the past, or even when it comes to challenging our beliefs about the nature of reality itself. J. Warner Wallace is the author of Cold-Case Christianity, Forensic Faith, and most recently, The Truth in True Crime. SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksCold Case Christianity, J. Warner WallaceThe Truth in True Crime, J. Warner WallaceGod's Crime Scene, J. Warner WallacePerson of Interest, J. Warner WallaceForensic Faith, J. Warner WallaceReligion on Trial, Craig PartonTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewRelated ArticlesThe Authenticity & Genuineness of The Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William RamsayOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalJoanna: Obscure Disciple or Luke's Key Witness?, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalHumble Apologetics, Shane RosenthalRelated AudioThe Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic #01New Evidence for The Executive Room, Humble Skeptic #55Evidential Reasoning, Humble Skeptic #56Death, Ghosts & Views of the Afterlife, Humble Skeptic #31The Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48Faith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic #15Are the Gospels History? Humble Skeptic #52Questioning Conventional Wisdom, Humble Skeptic #13UPCOMING EVENTS Milan, ItalyOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here.St. Louis, MissouriOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.Troy, IllinoisOn Sunday, Nov. 3rd, Shane will be speaking at a youth event from 3:30 to 7:00 pm at Providence Presbyterian Church. Shane will be addressing the topics: Is Faith Blind?, and Are There Contradictions in the Gospels? For more information about this youth event, send a text to 619-820-4908.Houston, TexasOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus' resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.St. Charles, MissouriOn Sunday, Dec. 8th at 6pm, Shane will discuss some of the challenges related to Luke's account of Jesus' birth. Some believe that the account of the census that took place in the days of Quirinius (Luke 2) is at odds with other known historical facts. Did Luke make a mistake or is there a way to resolve the apparent contradiction? This discussion will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church (cpcopc.org).If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this program Shane talks with trial attorney Craig Parton about evidential reasoning, which is an outlook that seeks to impartially examine the facts of any particular controversy in order to find the best explanation of those facts. The two apply this type of reasoning to the facts uncovered on last week's episode about the location of The Executive Room, as well as to the field of Christian apologetics as a whole. Craig Parton is the author of Religion on Trial, The Defense Never Rests, and more recently, The Art of Christian Advocacy.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksThe Art of Christian Advocacy, Craig Parton & John W. MontgomeryReligion on Trial, Craig PartonThe Defense Never Rests, Craig PartonA Treatise on the Law of Evidence, Simon Greenleaf—FREEThe Testimony of The Four Evangelists, Simon Greenleaf—FREEFaith Founded on Fact, John W. MontgomeryJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamChristianity on Trial, Mark LanierAtheism on Trial, Mark LanierRelated ArticlesIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian? Sir William RamsayCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalWho is Sergius Paulus? Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane RosenthalRelated AudioIs Faith A Feeling? Shane Rosenthal & Craig PartonReligion on Trial, Shane Rosenthal & Craig PartonThe Gospels as Eyewitness Testimony, Shane Rosenthal & Richard BauckhamThe Four Gospels: History or Fan Fiction? Shane Rosenthal & Lydia McGrewAtheism on Trial, Shane Rosenthal & Mark LanierFaith Founded on Facts, Shane Rosenthal & John Lennox & OthersAre the Gospels History? Shane Rosenthal & John DicksonQuestioning Conventional Wisdom, Shane Rosenthal & David RohlThe Jesus of History, Shane RosenthalUPCOMING EVENTS CEDAR CITY, UTAHOn Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the topic of his forthcoming book, Is Faith Blind? at the Festive Hall Conference Center in Cedar City, Utah. The event is free and dinner is provided. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and you can find the event page here.ST. LOUIS, MISSOURIOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.MILAN, ITALYOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here.HOUSTON, TEXASOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus' resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. SUPPORT THIS PODCASTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

The Pilot Episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast was launched in October of 2022, and on that program, Shane told his Dad's story of seeing Billy Joel perform at a piano bar in Los Angeles. If you've had a chance to listen to that episode, you know the story (if not, you should listen to that show first). On this program, Shane discusses some of the new evidence that has recently come to light about the location of The Executive Room, and talks with John Gibson about his memories of the famous piano bar.SHOW NOTESRelated ResourcesThe Pilot Episode, Humble Skeptic Ep. #1 Is My Dad One of the Characters in Billy Joel's Piano Man? Shane RosenthalThe Life & Times of an Angry Young Man, Hank BordowitzHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalThe Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & Doubt, Shane RosenthalRelated LinksThe Executive Room According to PopSpots, Bob EganThe Legacy of the O.J. Simpson Murder Trial, John GibsonJohn & Sandy Gibson's role in the Billy Joel story, Hank BordowitzPiano Man—Billy Joel, Hank BordowitzABC's 20/20 Segment on Billy JoelLiam Cooper's Interview with a former owner of The Executive RoomLiam Cooper's King of the Keys TrailerBilly Joel's Piano Man (sign at the very end says: “Bill Martin at the piano”)An Interview with Billy Joel, The Library of CongressMusicThe song that appears at the very end of the podcast (in the additional material that appears after the close of the program) is “Along the Way,” by The Hunts.According to the Library of Congress (see link above), Billy Joel stated that The Executive Room is now “a bank or an insurance building.” The image above is of The Pierce National Life building, which is an insurance company, and according to the replica also shown above, at one time it also happened to be a bank building. This also matches one of the statements that Shane's dad mentioned on the Pilot Episode. And when Shane sent a picture of this building to John Gibson (after he volunteered the information about it being located in the lobby of a large office building), he wrote back saying, “Oh, that looks like the building!”UPCOMING EVENTS CEDAR CITY, UTAHOn Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the topic of his forthcoming book, Is Faith Blind? at the Festive Hall Conference Center in Cedar City, Utah. The event is free and dinner is provided. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and you can find the event page here.ST. LOUIS, MISSOURIOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.MILAN, ITALYOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here.HOUSTON, TEXASOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus' resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. WE NEED YOUR SUPPORTDonations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here or use the QR code below. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Thanks for your support! Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

According to Rebecca McLaughlin, many of the beliefs of our contemporary culture can be summarized into a kind of “secular creed.” Though Christians will agree with some parts of this creed and disagree with others, it's important to note that many of the assumptions underlying this “statement of faith” are deeply rooted in Christian soil. So how did Jesus completely reshape the moral imagination of Western culture? Shane discusses this with Dr. McLaughlin, who is the author of numerous books including Confronting Christianity, and The Secular Creed.SHOW NOTESRelated BooksThe Secular Creed & Confronting Christianity, Rebecca McLaughlinDominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World, Tom HollandThe Righteous Mind & The Anxious Generation, Jonathan HaidtChristianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham MachenThe Secularist Heresy, Harry BlamiresEarly Christian Writings, The Apostolic FathersRelated ArticlesHow Christianity Killed Infanticide, Rebecca McLaughlinAn Ancient Letter from a Soldier to His Wife (scroll to bottom right)The Epistle to Diognetus (see chapters 5 & 9).Pentecost Skewers Racism, Rebecca McLaughlinCan We Trust the Gospels: A Review, Rebecca McLaughlinLiberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham MachenThe Tower of Babel & The Virtue of Doubt, Shane RosenthalRelated VideosThe Secular Creed, Rebecca McLaughlinChristianity is Returning, Tom Holland & Justin BrierleyHow St. Paul Changed the World, Tom Holland & N.T. WrightJesus Through the Eyes of Witnesses, Rebecca McLaughlinSexuality & Identity, Rebecca McLaughlin & Sam AllberryRelated PodcastsThe Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic #9Same-Sex Attraction, Sam Allberry & Michael HortonIdentity in a Post-Christian Culture, Humble Skeptic #33The Woke Revolution, Humble Skeptic #34Navigating the Currents of Aggressive Secularism, Humble Skeptic #36Is Faith Irrational? & Is Faith Blind? Humble Skeptic #2 and #3Is Faith a Feeling? Humble Skeptic #4Upcoming Events CEDAR CITY, UTAHOn Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the topic of his forthcoming book, Is Faith Blind? at the Festive Hall Conference Center in Cedar City, Utah. The event is free and dinner is provided. Doors open at 6:00 pm, and you can find the event page here.ST. LOUIS, MISSOURIOn Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres. To purchase tickets for this event or for more info, click here.MILAN, ITALYOn Sunday, Oct. 13th, Shane will be speaking at Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia on the northwest side of Milan. For more info or directions, click here. HOUSTON, TEXASOn Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be participating in a panel discussion on the historicity of Jesus' resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others. This event will take place at the Lanier Theological Library.If you would like to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Support This Podcast!Donations to The Humble Skeptic podcast are tax-deductible. To make a one-time donation or set up recurring monthly gifts, click here or use the QR code below. Another way to support this podcast is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack. Subscriptions begin at $5.95 per month or $59 per year, however, this option is not tax-deductible. Thanks for your support!If you haven't heard The Pilot Episode yet, be sure to fix that before Sept 3rd! Featuring an interview with a special guest whose name you just might recognize, this episode will revisit questions related to the location of The Executive Room. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Some Christians in our day push back against the idea of “the separation of church and state,” but David VanDrunen argues that, in reality, this is a crucial distinction taught throughout the Bible. So what is the proper view of government from a Christian perspective and how should we think about the relationship between theology and politics? Shane talks with Dr. VanDrunen about these and other issues he addresses in his book Politics After Christendom: Political Theology in a Fractured World.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksPolitics After Christendom, David VanDrunenLiving in God's Two Kingdoms, David VanDrunenNatural Law: A Short Companion, David VanDrunenDivine Covenants & Moral Order, David VanDrunenNatural Law & The Two Kingdoms, David VanDrunenRecommended ArticlesParadise Lost, David VanDrunenThe Tower of Babel, Shane RosenthalChristianity & Politics, William Bennet, Os Guinness & OthersRecommended AudioA Biblical Theology of Civil Government, David VanDrunenThe Rise & Fall of Christendom, David VanDrunenTheocracy or Liberalism? David VanDrunenResponsible Citizens, Patient Sojourners, David VanDrunenThe Political Implications of Original Sin, WHI #1597 with M. McClymondThe Woke Revolution, Humble Skeptic #34 with Os GuinnessLive Not By Lies, Humble Skeptic #35 with Rod DreherInfo & Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.• On Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• On Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315 fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres, Missouri. For more information, or to purchase tickets for this event, click here.• On Friday & Saturday, Nov. 8-9, Shane will be at the Lanier Theological Library in Houston, Texas. He has been invited to participate in a panel discussion related to the historicity of Jesus' resurrection, featuring Gary Habermas and others (more details coming soon).• If you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. • Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Click here for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

According to John Dickson, “Christianity is unlike other religions in that it gambles its plausibility on supposed historical events. Christians,” he writes, “don't merely say otherworldly things like ‘Heaven is open to all,' but they also say things like, ‘Christ suffered under Pontius Pilate,' and statements of this kind aren't immune from historical scrutiny.” So, what are the considerations involved in assessing the historical value of the Gospels? How can we be sure these ancient texts really are what they claim to be? On this episode, Shane talks with Undeceptions host, John Dickson, who received a PhD in the field of ancient history, and who is the author of Is Jesus History?• The clip in which John Dickson revealed his shift on the date of the Fourth Gospel was taken from Episode 126 of The Undeceptions podcast.• The quote from Princeton scholar, James Charlesworth's was taken from his book Jesus As Mirrored in John, and you can find additional quotes by Charlesworth and others here.• To read Shane's recent article mentioned at the end of this episode featuring an archaeoligical discovery related to Joanna & Theophilus, click here. SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksIs Jesus History? John DicksonA Doubters Guide to Jesus, John DicksonA Doubters Guide to the Bible, John DicksonCan We Trust The Gospels? Peter J. WilliamsRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonRethinking the Dates of the New Testament, Jonathan BernierJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamJesus As Mirrored in John, James CharlesworthRecommended ArticlesJoanna: Obscure Disciple, or Luke's Key Witness? Shane RosenthalJohn 5:2 “There is in Jerusalem…”, Shane Rosenthal & othersThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian, Sir William RamsayAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus? Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine? Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement? Shane RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalOther Related ResourcesThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic #12The Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic # 9New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable? Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.• On Wednesday, Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• On Friday, Oct. 18th, Shane will be the keynote speaker at the ReThink315fundraising dinner, which will take place at the Missouri Athletic Club in Des Peres, Missouri. For more information, or to purchase tickets for this event, click here.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Click here for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Many argue that the Fourth Gospel is the least historically reliable since it was written in the late first century. Essentially, they argue that this text tells us more about the beliefs of the church in that period than it does about the historical Jesus. So what are we to make of this theory? On this episode, Shane talks with New Testament scholar Daniel Wallace about evidence that points to a much earlier date, along with other matters related to the historical reliability and faithful transmission of John's Gospel.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksRevisiting the Corruption of the New Testament, Daniel WallaceRedating the New Testament, John A.T. RobinsonThe Priority of John, John A.T. RobinsonRethinking the Dates of the New Testament, Jonathan BernierRedating Matthew, Mark & Luke, John WenhamNICNT Commentary on The Gospel of John (1995), Leon MorrisConcordia Commentary: John 1:1-7:1, William WeinrichCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamGreek Grammar Beyond the Basics, Daniel WallaceRecommended ArticlesJohn 5:2 & The Date of The Fourth Gospel, Daniel WallaceJohn 5:2 (Part 2) & John 5:2 (Part 3), Daniel WallaceThe Gospel of John: An Introduction, Daniel WallaceAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine?, Shane RosenthalThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement?, S. RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, S. RosenthalThe Authenticity & Genuineness of the Fourth Gospel, J.B. LightfootOther Related ResourcesHas the Bible Been Miscopied or Mistranslated? Daniel Wallace, WHI #1377Which John Wrote John? Humble Skeptic #50 Questioning The Fourth Gospel, Humble Skeptic #49The Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic #12New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable? Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)An Interview with D.A. Carson, WHI #1456The Historical Reliability of John's Gospel, Craig Blomberg, WHI #1462Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this episode, Shane walks through some of the internal and external evidence related to his investigation of The Identity of the Beloved Disciple. This builds on some of the ideas introduced on the last episode with Richard Bauckham, but this discussion of the authorship of the Fourth Gospel takes a significantly deeper dive. As you'll see, the result of this exploration has surprising implications for the authenticity and historical reliability of all four Gospels—and, of course, John in particular.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksThe Witness of St. John to Christ, Stanley Leathes (FREE)The Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamThe Identity of John the Evangelist, Dean FurlongThe New Testament in Its World, N.T. Wright & Michael BirdThe Gospel of St. John: A Newly Discovered Commentary, J.B. LightfootJohn The Son of Zebedee, The Life of a Legend, Alan CulpepperThe Johannine Question, Martin HengelRecommended ArticlesThe Identity of the Beloved Disciple, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine?, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement?, S. RosenthalSimon of Cyrene: An Intriguing Archaeological Discovery, S. RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalThe Parable of Lazarus, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalOther Related ResourcesQuestioning The Fourth Gospel, Humble Skeptic Ep. #49The Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic Ep. #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic Ep. #12Fake or Authentic?, Humble Skeptic Ep. #10Authenticating the Book of Acts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #24Faith Founded on Facts (1), Humble Skeptic Ep. #15Faith Founded on Facts (2), Humble Skeptic Ep. #16This above episode makes a case for an earlier dating of John's GospelUpcoming Events• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th at 11 am. For directions, visit the church website: thirdpca.org.• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Many scholars over the centuries have questioned the historical value of John's Gospel. Since it's the latest of all the Gospels, some argue that John's narrative may tell us more about late first-century Christian beliefs, more than it communicates anything reliable about the Historical Jesus. I discuss this with Richard Bauckham, along with his thesis that the Fourth Gospel wasn't written by the Apostle John, but by a different character known in the early church as John the Elder. SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamMagdala of Galilee: A Jewish City, Richard BauckhamThe Identity of John the Evangelist, Dean FurlongRecommended ArticlesAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWater Into Wine?, Shane RosenthalOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalJesus & The Eyewitnesses: A Review, Shane RosenthalOther Related ResourcesThe Gospels As Eyewitness Testimony, Humble Skeptic Ep. #48The Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic Ep. #12Fake or Authentic?, Humble Skeptic Ep. #10Authenticating the Book of Acts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #24Faith Founded on Facts (1), Humble Skeptic Ep. #15Faith Founded on Facts (2), Humble Skeptic Ep. #16This above episode makes a case for an earlier dating of John's GospelUpcoming Events• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. While in town, Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th at 11 am. For directions, visit the church website: thirdpca.org.• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Many New Testament scholars argue that the Gospels were told orally for the better part of a century before they were finally written down, and as such, they tell us more about later Christian beliefs than they do the life of Jesus. Cambridge scholar Richard Bauckham has argued that this entire approach to Jesus research has officially reached a dead end and that the Gospels are rooted in reliable eyewitness testimony. Shane discusses these claims with Dr. Bauckham.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamJesus: A Very Short Introduction, Richard BauckhamThe Testimony of the Beloved Disciple, Richard BauckhamGospel Women, Richard BauckhamCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsTestimonies to the Truth, Lydia McGrewRecommended ArticlesThe Gospels as Authentic Testimony, Richard BauckhamIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, William RamsayOutside The Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalScribes of the New Covenant, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement?, S. RosenthalWater Into Wine?, Shane RosenthalOn Faith & History, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalJesus & The Eyewitnesses: A Review, Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalOther Related ResourcesThe Jesus of History, Humble Skeptic Ep. #12Faith Founded on Facts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #15Fake or Authentic?, Humble Skeptic Ep. #10Authenticating the Book of Acts, Humble Skeptic Ep. #24New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)Evidence for the Resurrection, Peter J. Williams (video)Are the Gospels Reliable?, Peter J. Williams & Bart Ehrman (video)Upcoming Events• On Wed. March 27th at 6:30 pm, Shane will be discussing “Objections to the Resurrection” at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. While in town, Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th at 11 am. For directions, visit the church website: thirdpca.org.• Shane will be speaking at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

What did ancient Jews believe about the mission of their Messiah? Were they expecting a kind of warrior king who would defeat the Gentiles and reign as king over all the earth, or one who would atone for sin through his own sacrificial death? On this episode, Shane discusses these questions as he interacts with a variety of texts from the Dead Sea Scrolls and other sources that give us insight into the way Jews before and after the time of Jesus attempted to interpret some of the messianic prophecies recorded in the pages of the Old Testament.To download a PDF copy of the lecture slides for this presentation, use the link below:SHOW NOTESRelated ArticlesSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalA Dead Sea Scroll Hymn on the Suffering Servant, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel, Quotes from Eusebius, Augustine & othersWhy Should We Believe The Bible? (PDF), Shane RosenthalDid Palm Trees Grow in Jerusalem at the Time of Jesus?, Shane RosenthalWhere Was Jesus Crucified?, Shane RosenthalConsidering Alternatives to the Resurrection, Shane RosenthalRelated BooksHolman Quicksource Guide to the Dead Sea Scrolls, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith, Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels, Craig EvansJosephus, Jewish War Vol. III, (This edition includes some Slavonic material)Josephus' Jewish War and its Slavonic Version, Henry & Kate LeemingThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53, Darrell Bock & othersThe Jewish Gospels, Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Annotated New Testament, Daniel Boyarin & others“Son of Man” in Early Jewish Literature, Richard BauckhamThe Jewish Targums & John's Logos Theology, John RonningThe Angel of the Lord. Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy, Rydelnik & BlumThe Life & Times of Jesus The Messiah, Alfred EdersheimProof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaRelated AudioJewish Views of the Messiah, with Daniel BoyarinWhat Did the Earliest Christians Believe?, Humble Skeptic #25The Earliest Gospel, Humble Skeptic #45 Were Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah?, WHI 1243 with Craig EvansThe Gospel Creed, Humble Skeptic #9Locating Golgotha, Humble Skeptic #17What Child Is This?, a bonus episode of the Humble SkepticUpcoming Events• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the greater Memphis region on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info or to register).• On Wed. March 27th at 6:30 pm, Shane will be discussing “Objections to the Resurrection” at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.• Shane will be discussing the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th (more info will be available soon).• Shane will be one of the speakers at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024.• On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at an event in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Galatians is one of the earliest NT epistles and it records one of the oldest controversies in church history. Surprisingly, these early Christians weren't involved in a dispute about Jesus' divinity, his death, burial, or even his resurrection from the dead. Rather, the controversy was specifically rooted in the implications of all these foundational beliefs. If Jesus was indeed the promised Messiah, then how should we apply the Law of Moses moving forward? Should Gentiles be circumcised, keep Kosher, and rest on the Sabbath? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions with T. David Gordon, author of Promise, Law, Faith: Covenant-Historical Reasoning in Galatians.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksPromise, Law, Faith, T. David GordonChoose Better, T. David GordonPaul & The Law, Brian S. Rosner40 Questions About Christians & Biblical Law, Thomas SchreinerSacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored, Mike Brown & Z. KeeleRelated ArticlesThe Coin & The Covenant, Shane RosenthalThe Acts 2 Controversy, Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalWhat's the Most Important Thing in the Bible?, S RosenthalWhy Johnny Can't Preach, T. David GordonRelated AudioThe Earliest Gospel, Humble Skeptic #45 How to Read & Interpret The Bible, Humble Skeptic #37What Did the Earliest Christians Believe?, Humble Skeptic #25The Gospel Creed • Humble Skeptic #9The Effect of Media & Technology, Humble Skeptic #30Distracting Ourselves to Death, T. David Gordon on WHIUpcoming Events• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the greater Memphis region on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info or to register).• On Wed. March 27th at 6:30 pm, Shane will give a talk on “Objections to the Resurrection” at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024. Greg Koukl will also be speaking at the Creating Confident Ambassadors conference at First Baptist Church—St. John on Saturday, April 6th in St. Louis.• Shane has been invited to lead a discussion of the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at Third Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama on Sunday, April 28th (more info will be available soon).• On Fri. May 3rd at 7 pm, Shane will talk with David Van Drunen about his books, Natural Law and Politics After Christendom. This conversation will take place at Christ Presbyterian Church in St. Charles, MO.• Shane will be one of the speakers at the ReThink315 College Camp which will take place on the campus of St. Louis University, July 16-19, 2024. • On Wed. Sept. 18th, Shane will discuss the question, “Is Faith Blind & Irrational?” at a public forum in Cedar City, Utah (more details coming soon).• Shane will be discussing “The Thing of First Importance” at Chiesa Reformata Filadelfia in Milan, Italy on Sunday, Oct. 13th (more details coming soon).• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

What is the earliest Gospel in existence? It's not Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John; according to Paul, the oldest Gospel is actually found in the book of Genesis. In Galatians 3:8 he boldly declares that the gospel of Jesus had been proclaimed in advance to Abraham. So what specific passages from Genesis did he have in mind? How did the promises given to Abraham differ from the covenant that was later ratified at Mt. Sinai? Were Old Testament saints saved by works or simply by trusting the promise? Shane discusses these questions and more with Mike Brown, co-author of Sacred Bond, Covenant Theology Explored. SHOW NOTESRelated ArticlesOutside the Gospels, What Can We Know About Jesus?, S. RosenthalFinding Christ in All The Scriptures, Shane RosenthalExploring Covenant Theology, Mike Brown & Zach KeeleWhat's the Most Important Thing in the Bible?, S RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalSprinkled Nations & Speechless Kings, Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture, Shane Rosenthal Related BooksSacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored, Mike Brown & Z. KeeleJourneys with Jesus, Dennis JohnsonChrist From Beginning to End, Hunter & WellumThe Proof of the Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaPromise, Law, Faith, T. David GordonThe Angel of the Lord, Van Dorn & ForemanRelated AudioThe Galatian Controversy, Humble Skeptic #46What Did The Earliest Christians Believe?, Humble Skeptic #25Jewish Views of the Messiah, Humble Skeptic #38How to Read & Apply the Old Testament, S. Rosenthal & Iain DuguidThe Big Picture, Humble Skeptic #26 The Gospel Creed • Humble Skeptic #9During this episode, Shane read a quote from Bono. Here's the larger context, which was originally included as part of an introduction to the Psalms. “Psalm 40 is interesting in that it suggests a time in which grace will replace karma, and love replace the very strict laws of Moses (i.e. fulfill them). I love that thought. David, who committed some of the most selfish as well as selfless acts, was depending on it. That the scriptures are brim full of hustlers, murderers, cowards, adulterers, and mercenaries used to shock me; now it is a source of great comfort.” Click here to read Bono's entire essay.Upcoming Events• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the greater Memphis region on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on topics related to apologetics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, send an email to: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Write a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a brief review to let others know what you like about it (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews can be seen in other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get!We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Abdu Murray is a lawyer who was raised in a Muslim home. Though he used to argue with Christians about the superiority of Islam, after a long and careful consideration of the evidence, he eventually left the religion of his youth and converted to Christianity. On this episode, Shane talks with Abdu about his conversion experience and many other topics he addresses in his books, Grand Central Question, and Saving Truth: Finding Meaning & Clarity in a Post-Truth World. SHOW NOTESRelated BooksSaving Truth, Abdu MurrayGrand Central Question, Abdu MurrayMore Than a White Man's Religion, Abdu MurraySeeking Allah, Finding Jesus, Nabeel QureshiPost Christian, Gene VeithStrange New World, Carl TruemanTactics, Greg KouklThe Story of Reality, Greg KouklStreet Smarts, Greg KouklRelated ResourcesAbdu Murray on Confirmation Bias (video)Truth is More Than a Feeling, Abdu Murray (article)Pluralism, Confusion & The Roads to God, Abdu MurrayAll Rise with Abdu Murray (podcast)Humble Apologetics, Shane Rosenthal (article)Recovering the Art of Persuasion, Shane Rosenthal (article)On Faith & Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)Why Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane Rosenthal (article)Greg Koukl on Street Smarts, Humble Skeptic, Ep. 27 (podcast)Rethinking Apologetics, Humble Skeptic, Ep. 23 (podcast)Is Faith Irrational?, Humble Skeptic, Ep. 02 (podcast)Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the greater St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Consider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get! We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Jesus frequently taught in a way that provoked questions. This is one of the reasons his parables are sometimes difficult to understand since they were actually meant to be confusing and disorienting. On this episode, Shane discusses the purpose of Jesus' parables with his former pastor, Scott Churnock, and together they walk through the significance of the stories found in Luke 15, including The Lost Coin, The Lost Sheep, and The Lost Sons. SHOW NOTESRelated ArticlesDead Men Can't Dance, Scott ChurnockThe Parable of Old & New Treasures, Shane RosenthalThe Parable of The Rich Man & Lazarus, Shane RosenthalThe Parable of The Good Samaritan, D.A. CarsonIntroduction to the Parables, Craig BlombergRelated ResourcesLost & Found: The Parables of Luke 15, Scott Churnock (audio)The Surprising Genius of Jesus, Peter J. Williams (book)The Prodigal God, Tim Keller (book)The Cross & The Prodigal, Kenneth Bailey (book)The Explosive Power of Jesus' Parables, Albert Mohler Jr. (book)The Parables of Jesus, David Wenham (book)The Purpose of the Parables, D.A. Carson (video)The Parables of Jesus, R.C. Sproul (video series)What Do Jesus' Parables Mean?, R.C. Sproul (booklet)Consider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get! We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). You can also support the show by purchasing Humble Skeptic merch. Click here for more info. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

How does the Christian worldview explain the problem of evil, and how does this perspective differ from other major worldview options? What are we to think about the challenges related to artificial intelligence, and how could these challenges potentially change our world? Shane Rosenthal discusses these and other questions with Oxford mathematician John Lennox, author of Suffering Life's Pain, and 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity.SHOW NOTESBooks by John LennoxSuffering Life's Pain: Facing Moral & Natural EvilFinding Ultimate Reality2084: AI & The Future of HumanityJoseph: A Story of Love, Hate, & ForgivenessCan Science Explain Everything?God & Stephen HawkingCosmic ChemistryGunning for GodAgainst The FlowSeven Days That Divide The WorldOther Recommended Books & ResourcesThe Universe Next Door, James SireNaming the Elephant: Worldview as a Concept, James SireWhy Good Arguments Often Fail, James SireThe Story of Reality, Greg KouklGod & The Problem of Evil, Five ViewsGreg Koukl on The Problem of Evil (podcast)Against the Tide, A Documentary Featuring John LennoxConsider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (click here for more info).• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a free apologetics conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the greater St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). You can also support the show by purchasing Humble Skeptic merch. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Are faith and science opposed to one another, or do scientific investigations sometimes lead us to ask questions of religious significance? How are we to account for the origin of our finely-tuned universe, and how do we explain the complex amount of information embedded in our own DNA? Is it rational to believe in miracles, or the narratives recorded in the Bible? On this episode, Shane discusses these issues and more with Oxford mathematician, John Lennox, author of Can Science Explain Everything?SHOW NOTESBooks by John LennoxCan Science Explain Everything?God & Stephen HawkingCosmic ChemistryGunning for GodFinding Ultimate RealityAgainst The FlowSeven Days That Divide The World2084: AI & The Future of HumanityOther Recommended BooksThe Return of the God Hypothesis, Stephen MeyerCan A Scientist Believe in Miracles?, Ian HutchinsonThe Case Against Accident, Dean OvermanCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsJesus: A Very Short Introduction, Richard BauckhamJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamRecommended Articles & ResourcesOrigin of Life: 10 Million Dollar Prize, Perry MarshallHas Science Buried God? John Lennox (video)By Design, John Lennox, Michael Behe & Stephen Meyer (video)Return of the God Hypothesis (Pt. 1), (Pt. 2) Stephen Meyer (podcast) New Evidence for the Gospels, Peter J. Williams (video)What is Faith?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalConsider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (more details coming soon).• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood in the greater St. Louis area on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). You can also support the show by purchasing Humble Skeptic merch. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

On this edition of the Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane continues his conversation with Dr. Mike Farley of Covenant Theological Seminary, and together they answer questions from the live audience.SHOW NOTESRecommended ArticlesWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalWhat is Faith?, Shane RosenthalHistory & Faith, J. Gresham MachenRecommended BooksCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsIs Jesus History?, John DicksonHidden in Plain View, Lydia McGrewTestimonies To The Truth, Lydia McGrewWhy I Trust The Bible, William MounceConfronting Christianity, Rebecca McLaughlinA Good & True Story, Paul GouldThe Reason for God, Tim KellerRelated EpisodesWhy Should We Trust The Bible (Pt. 1), with Mike FarleyFaith & Proof, with Mike FarleyProof of the Gospel, with Mike FarleyQuestioning Conventional Wisdom, with David RohlFake or Authentic?, with Lydia McGrewIs Faith Blind? Questioning Our Beliefs About Belief Itself. That's the new title of Shane's forthcoming book due out in the Spring. Chapters include: Is Faith Blind or Irrational?Is Faith a Feeling?Is Faith a Spiritual Sixth-Sense?Is Faith an Experience?How is Faith Related to Knowledge?Is Faith Compatible with Science?What if the Jesus Story is a Myth?Why Should We Trust The Bible?Is It Okay to Have Doubts?Consider Writing a Positive ReviewIf you're a fan of the show, consider writing a quick note about what you like about the show (preferably via the Apple Podcast app since their reviews are visible in many other podcast portals). The more positive reviews we get, the more exposure we get! Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (more details coming soon).• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

There are a variety of purported “holy books” out there in the spiritual marketplace, so why should we trust the Bible over the others? How do we know this book isn't simply a collection of myths and legends or the ravings of lunatics? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions and more with Dr. Mike Farley who is the Visiting Professor of Applied Theology at Covenant Theological Seminary.SHOW NOTESRecommended ArticlesIs Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, William RamsayWhy Should We Believe The Bible?, Shane RosenthalCan We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement?, Shane RosenthalAuthenticating The Fourth Gospel, Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane RosenthalHow to Detect Deception, Shane RosenthalWhat is Faith?, Shane RosenthalHistory & Faith, J. Gresham MachenRecommended Books & ResourcesCan We Trust The Gospels?, Peter J. WilliamsA Doubter's Guide to Jesus, John DicksonJesus & The Eyewitnesses, Richard BauckhamCan We Still Believe The Bible?, Craig BlombergHidden in Plain View, Lydia McGrewTestimonies To The Truth, Lydia McGrewProof of The Gospel, Eusebius of CaesareaAgainst the Tide, a documentary featuring John Lennox}Related EpisodesFaith & Proof, with Mike FarleyProof of the Gospel, with Mike FarleyQuestioning Conventional Wisdom, with David RohlIs Faith Irrational?Is Faith Blind?Upcoming Events• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 22-24, 2024 (more details coming soon).• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.We Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift or upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Tax-deductible giving options are also available. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at www.humbleskeptic.com/subscribe

Daniel Boyarin is a professor of Talmudic Culture at U.C. Berkeley who argues that many Jews before the time of Jesus were expecting a divine-human Messiah who would suffer on behalf of his people. These ideas are not only found throughout the Hebrew Bible, but we also discover them in a variety of ancient Jewish texts written before the rise of Christianity. On this episode, Shane Rosenthal talks with Dr. Boyarin about these and many other views that he presents in his book, The Jewish Gospels: The Story of the Jewish Christ.SHOW NOTESFinding Christ in All The Scriptures — A New PDF resourceIn John 5:39, Jesus famously told the religious leaders of his day, “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life, but it is they that bear witness of me.” What are the implications of this verse, and how can it change the way we read and understand the entire Bible? That's the focus of this PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal which you can receive by making a gift of any size.Related BooksThe Jewish Gospels • Daniel BoyarinThe Jewish Annotated New Testament • (includes material from Boyarin)The Jewish Targums & John's Logos Theology • John RonningA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith • Craig EvansA Handbook on the Jewish Roots of the Gospels • Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord • Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanThe Gospel According to Isaiah 53 • Darrell Bock & othersThe Moody Handbook of Messianic Prophecy • Rydelnik & BlumThe Life & Times of Jesus The Messiah • Alfred EdersheimProof of the Gospel • Eusebius of CaesareaRelated ArticlesFinding Christ in All The Scriptures • Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture • Shane RosenthalA Dead Sea Scroll Hymn on the Suffering Servant • Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe The Bible? • Shane RosenthalProof of the Gospel • Quotes from Eusebius, Augustine & othersRelated AudioWhat Child Is This? • A Christmas Message by Shane RosenthalWere Jews Expecting a Divine Messiah? • WHI 1243 with Craig EvansA Suffering Messiah? • WHI-1564 with Craig EvansThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 1) • WHI 1566 with Foreman & Van DornThe Angel of the Lord (Pt 2) • WHI-1567 with Foreman & Van Dorn Music Heard on This EpisodeO Come O Come Emmanuel • Ardie Son, from his Album, DecemberWhat Child is This • Ardie Son, from his Album, DecemberCarol of the Bells • Will Taylor, from his Album, A Mandolin ChristmasWe Need Your Help!Consider supporting The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a YEAR-END gift! Another way to help is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). Use the button below for more information about giving options.Upcoming Events• Many people throughout history have claimed to be prophets, and there are many different kinds of “holy books” out there in the spiritual marketplace. So why should we trust the Bible? Shane Rosenthal will discuss this question at the next Friday Night Forum with Dr, Mike Farley, Visiting Professor of Applied Theology at Covenant Theological Seminary. This forum will meet on January 5th in St. Charles, MO, and you can find more information at cpcopc.org.• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

On this episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast, Shane talks with Mike Brown, one of the authors of Sacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored, about common errors to avoid when reading and interpreting Scripture. They also discuss a variety of interpretive tools that will make your study of the Bible more effective.SHOW NOTESFinding Christ in All The Scriptures — A New PDF resourceIn John 5:39, Jesus famously told the religious leaders of his day, “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life, but it is they that bear witness of me.” What are the implications of this verse, and how can it change the way we read and understand the entire Bible? That's the focus of this PDF resource by Shane Rosenthal which you can receive by making a gift of any size. If you're a paid subscriber or have already given a gift this year, you'll automatically receive this PDF.Related BooksSacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored • Mike Brown & Zach KeeleKnowing Scripture • R.C. SproulJourneys with Jesus • Dennis JohnsonExegetical Fallacies • D.A. CarsonEchoes of Exodus • Alistair Roberts & Andrew WilsonThe Angel of the Lord • Doug Van Dorn & Matt ForemanAccording to Plan • Graeme GoldsworthyThe Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis • Nancy GuthrieLamb of God: Seeing Jesus in Exodus • Nancy GuthrieThe Unfolding Mystery • Edmund ClowneyGod Dwells Among Us • G.K. Beale & Mitchell KimRelated ArticlesExploring Covenant Theology • Mike Brown & Zach Keele (interview)What's the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible? • Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us • Shane RosenthalA New Way of Reading Scripture • Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible? • Shane RosenthalRelated AudioWhat Did The Earliest Christians Believe? • Humble Skeptic Ep. 25The Big Picture • Humble Skeptic Ep. 26The Gospel Creed • Humble Skeptic Ep. 09How to Read & Apply the Old Testament • WHI-1568Failed Bible Heroes • WHI-1572Upcoming Events• On Dec. 17th at Concord Church in St. Louis, Shane will discuss his conversion to Christianity from a secular Jewish background through a detailed study of messianic prophecy. This event is titled: What Child is This: How The Christmas Story Fulfills Ancient Prophecies. Click here for more info (registration requested).• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

What is a good definition of “culture,” and why is it so effective at conforming us to believe certain things, and to behave in certain ways? How do we protect ourselves and the next generation from the negative influences of our increasingly secular culture? On this episode, Shane Rosenthal discusses these issues and more with Brett Kunkle, founder of Maven, and co-author of A Practical Guide to Culture.SHOW NOTESResources by Brett KunkleA Practical Guide to Culture and A Student's Guide to Culture (books)The Ambassador's Guide to Mormonism (booklet)A Motivating Mormon Roleplay (article & video)Don't Just Doubt Your Faith, Doubt Your Doubts (article)Five Tools to Equip Your Kids (article)Do Pronouns Matter? (article)Brett Kunkle Interviews his Co-Author John Stonestreet (podcast)Maventruth.com (Brett Kunkle's website)Other Related ResourcesThe Lost Tools of Learning, Dorothy Sayers (article)Creed or Chaos?, Dorothy Sayers (article)Recovering the Art of Persuasion, Shane Rosenthal (article)What is Faith? Shane Rosenthal (article)The Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)Be a Berean!, Shane Rosenthal (article)So The Next Generation Will Know, McDowell & Wallace (book)Post Christian: A Guide to Contemporary Thought, Gene Veith (book)We Need Your Help!Support The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift using the green button below. Until recently this option was only valid for US residents, but we're now able to accept donations from most foreign countries. Another way to help is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack ($5.95 per month, $59 per year). If you would like to make a “tax-deductible” donation, you can find out more about this option here.Upcoming Events• On Dec. 17th at Concord Church in St. Louis, Shane will discuss his conversion to Christianity from a secular Jewish background through a detailed study of messianic prophecy. This event is titled: What Child is This: How The Christmas Story Fulfills Ancient Prophecies (click here for more info).• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic and ReThink315 will host a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

The word “totalitarianism” describes a political system in which the state has total authority over every aspect of life. In regimes of this kind, external conformity is just the first step—what they really want is your soul. According to Rod Dreher, we're now seeing the rise of a new “soft totalitarianism” which is closer to Huxley's Brave New World, than Orwell's 1984. In soft totalitarianism, conformity is achieved by manipulating access to things like status and comfort, often by means of a social credit system. On this program, Shane Rosenthal talks with Rod Dreher about these and other disturbing trends that he outlines in his bestselling book, Live Not By Lies, which also happens to be the subject of a forthcoming documentary series.SHOW NOTESResources by Rod DreherLive Not By Lies (book)The Axis of the Human Heart (essay)Exclude the Excluders! (essay)Live Not By Lies, Rod Dreher on The Jordan Peterson Podcast (video)The Fog of Propaganda: Rod Dreher on American Thought Leaders (video)Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn ResourcesLive Not By Lies (essay)A World Split Apart (Harvard commencement address)One Word of Truth (Nobel Prize speech)Solzhenitsyn at Harvard: The Address & Responses (book)The Solzhenitsyn Reader (book)A Portrait of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, David Aikman (Mars Hill Audio) The Christian Humanism of Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn (Mars Hill Audio)Aleksander Solzhenitsyn: A Brief Autobiography (essay)Other Related ResourcesLive Not By Lies: The Documentary Series (video preview)We Are Repaganizing, Louise Perry (essay)Why I Am Now a Christian, Ayaan Hirsi Ali (essay)Yes, The West is Becoming More Like China, N.S. Lyons (essay)Post Christian: A Guide to Contemporary Thought, Gene Veith (book)Post Christian, featuring Shane Rosenthal & Gene Veith (podcast)Modern Fascism: Liquidating the Christian Worldview, Gene Veith (book)The False Gospel of Fascism, Shane Rosenthal & Gene Veith (podcast)The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self, Carl Trueman (book)Politics & Original Sin, Shane Rosenthal & Michael McClymond (podcast)How to Detect Deception, Shane Rosenthal (essay)Today is GIVING TUESDAY!Support The Humble Skeptic podcast by making a one-time gift here (or click the image below). Another way you can help is by upgrading to a paid subscription via Substack (simply use the green “subscribe” button at the bottom of this page). For “tax-deductible” donations, click here.Upcoming Events• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? At this time of year, we're invited to sing Christmas carols in honor of Jesus' birth, but can we really trust the narratives we find in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke? How can we be sure these stories weren't added much later or embellished in some way? Do these stories conflict with each other, or with known historical facts? Shane will be speaking on this topic at the next Friday Night Forum (7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, MO • cpcopc.org).• On Dec. 17th at Concord Church in St. Louis, Shane will discuss his conversion to Christianity from a secular Jewish background through a detailed study of messianic prophecy. This event is titled: What Child is This: How The Christmas Story Fulfills Ancient Prophecies (click here for more information).• Shane will be speaking at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will host a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your next event, use the following address: INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.Support The Humble Skeptic by upgrading to a paid subscription. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

Fifty years ago, Os Guinness released his book, The Dust of Death, which offered a piercing analysis of the sixties counterculture movement with its revolutionary ideas about human nature and sexual liberation. In his preface to a new edition of this work, Guinness argues that during this tumultuous decade, “many of the seeds of today's most radical ideas were sown, only to flower more recently in their most destructive forms.” Shane Rosenthal talks with Os about many of his observations and predictions from a half-century ago, as well as how these radical ideas eventually became mainstream.SHOW NOTESResources by Os GuinnessThe Dust of Death, and Last Call for Liberty (books)The Magna Charta of Humanity and Fools Talk (books)We're All Children of the 60's (article - TGC)I Believe in Doubt (article - Ligonier)A Free People's Suicide (video - Socrates in the City)The Magna Charta of Humanity (video - Socrates in the City)The Future of Freedom (podcast - WHI)Additional Resources by Os Guinness (website)Other Related ResourcesOs Guinness: The Christian Public Intellectual, John Shelton (article)Let's Be Civil About It, Michael Horton & Os Guinness (article - MR)Time for Truth, Ryan Glomsrud (article - MR)Be a Berean!, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Virtue of Doubt, Shane Rosenthal (article)Live Not By Lies, Rod Dreher (book)Modern Fascism: Liquidating the Judeo-Christian Worldview, Gene Veith (book)The False Gospel of Fascism, Shane Rosenthal & Gene Veith (podcast)The Political Implications of Original Sin, S. Rosenthal & M. McClymond (podcast)Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make a “tax-deductible” donation here.Upcoming Events• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• On December 17th, Shane will be speaking at Concord Church in St. Louis (South County) on the following topic: What Child is This: How The Christmas Story Fulfills Ancient Prophecies. Click here for more information.• Shane has been invited to speak at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be speaking on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

As discussed on recent episodes, when it comes to religion and worldview preferences, most people tend to follow their own internal feelings, intuitions, and experiences. But what are the larger social implications of this increasing emphasis on the subjective? According to Carl Trueman, in today's culture of “expressive individualism,” the idea of conforming to anything external—anything outside the “self”—has come to be seen as “inauthentic.” As a result of this cultural shift, identity is now being formed by a person's internal feelings and desires rather than by external considerations, including nature itself. Shane Rosenthal talks with Dr. Trueman about this and many other issues he addresses in his book, The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self.SHOW NOTESResources by Carl TruemanThe Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self & Strange New World (books)Dylan Mulvany and the Real Clash of Civilizations (article - First Things)In Our Chaotic Age, Some Atheists are Rethinking Secularism (article - First Things)6 Ways Christians Can Respond to Our Strange New World (article - TGC)The Genesis of Gender (podcast featuring Carl Trueman & Abigail Favale)Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age (podcast featuring Carl Trueman & Rosaria Butterfield)Other Related ResourcesThe Mormonization of American Christianity, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Story of Us, Shane Rosenthal (article)What is Faith?, Shane Rosenthal (article)Liberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham Machen (article)Is Faith a Feeling?, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 4Religion on Trial, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 5Faith & Experience, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 28Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make a “tax-deductible” donation here.Upcoming Events• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Shane has been invited to speak at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

In his 1923 classic, Christianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen argued that the liberal churches of his day had abandoned everything distinctive about Christianity in favor of a non-redemptive religion that was rooted in moralism and personal experience. According to Michael J. Kruger, contemporary liberal and progressive Churches are making the same crucial mistakes a century later. On this episode, Shane talks with Dr. Kruger about his book, The Ten Commandments of Progressive Christianity.SHOW NOTESResources by Michael J. KrugerThe Ten Commandments of Progressive Christianity (book)The Question of Canon & Canon Revisited (books)Surviving Religion 101 & Christianity at the Crossroads (books)A Review of The Ten Commandments of Progressive Christianity, Chase Kuhn (article)No, the Church Didn't Create the Bible, D.A. Carson & Michael Kruger (video)Keeping the Faith in College, (podcast)Other Related ResourcesChristianity & Liberalism, J. Gresham Machen (book)Liberalism or Christianity?, J. Gresham Machen (article)History & Faith, J. Gresham Machen (article)Is Luke a Trustworthy Historian?, Sir William Ramsay (article)What Do Progressive Christians Believe? Alisa Childers (article)Why Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane Rosenthal (article)What is Faith?, Shane Rosenthal (article)The Story of Us, Shane Rosenthal (article)American Gospel: Christ Crucified (video)Progressive Christianity: Another Gospel?, Shane Rosenthal & Alisa Childers (podcast)Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make “tax-deductible” donations here.Upcoming Events• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

On this edition of The Humble Skeptic podcast, we'll contrast popular beliefs about ghosts and the afterlife with the views presented in the Old and New Testaments. Joining Shane to discuss this important topic is Dr. Michael McClymond, who is the professor of Modern Theology at St. Louis University, and the author of numerous books including Familiar Stranger: An Introduction to Jesus of Nazareth, and The Devil's Redemption: A New History & Interpretation of Christian Universalism.SHOW NOTESResources by Michael McClymondThe Devil's Redemption & Familiar Stranger (books)Everything is Christ & Other Muddled Messages from Richard Rohr (article)Original Sin: A Tool for Decoding Human Nature (article)The Untold Story of Purgatory (podcast episode)Does Everyone Go to Heaven? (podcast episode)Other Related ResourcesUnseen Realities, R.C. SproulThe Story of Us, Shane RosenthalWhat is Faith?, Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, Shane RosenthalKarma vs. Grace (podcast episode)Heaven in Pop Culture (podcast episode)Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make “tax-deductible” donations here.Upcoming Events• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.November 2nd, 2023 is the 50th anniversary of the release of Billy Joel's song Piano Man, which makes it a great time to listen to the pilot episode of The Humble Skeptic podcast, and to share with friends! Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

T. David Gordon served as a professor of Media Ecology at Grove City College for several decades, and as laptops, smartphones, and social media arrived on the scene in successive waves, he and his colleagues began to notice a change in students' ability to pay attention and to process the various reading assignments. Shane discusses this with Dr. Gordon along with some of the issues he addresses in an article he recently wrote titled, “The Material is Not Immaterial.”SHOW NOTESRelated ArticlesThe Material is Not Immaterial, by T. David GordonMedia Ecology for the Family, by T. David GordonWhy Johnny Can't Preach (article), by T. David GordonA Discussion of Neil Postman's Amusing Ourself to Death, by T. David GordonAn Interview with Neil Postman, Modern Reformation Yes, It's the Phones (and Social Media), by Jean TwengeRelated BooksWhy Johnny Can't Preach, by T. David GordonAmusing Ourselves to Death, and Technopoly, by Neil PostmanUnderstanding Media, by Marshal McLuhanGeneration Me, and iGen, by Jean TwengeLife on the Screen, and Alone Together, by Sherry TurkleDistracted: The Erosion of Attention & The Coming Dark Age, by Maggie JacksonRelated PodcastsSocial Media, Technology & Cultural Decline, T. David Gordon on WHI Distracting Ourselves to Death, T. David Gordon on WHIPop Culture, Technology & Worship, T. David Gordon on WHIYouth Ministry & Youth Culture, T. David Gordon on WHIRecovering Focus in a Distracted Time, Maggie Jackson on WHISupport The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). If you would like to make a “tax-deductible” donation, you can find out more about this option here.Upcoming Events• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information about any of these events, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

How can we know whether religious experiences are authentic, or just a trick of the brain? And if they really are supernatural, how we be sure that they emanate from the God of the Bible, as opposed to the Koran? Too often we allow our experiences to confirm that which we already believe. On this episode, Shane discusses this with believers from a wide variety of faiths and also airs the second half of his conversation with Dr. J.R. Miller, author of One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism.SHOW NOTESRelated EpisodesFaith & Experience (Part 1), The Humble Skeptic, Episode 28Is Faith a Feeling?, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 4Religion on Trial, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 5Faith & Proof, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 7Proof & The Gospel, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 8The Gospel Creed, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 9Related Books & ArticlesOne Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, by J.R. MillerThe Mormonization of American Christianity, by Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us, by Shane RosenthalThe Megachurch Century, by Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, by Shane RosenthalActs 2 & The Tongues Controversy (free version), by Shane RosenthalA New 26-Page PDF Resource! Shane recently expanded his article on Acts 2 & The Tongues Controversy into a 26-page downloadable PDF document, which walks through the Christ-centered nature of Acts 2, and includes background information about the origins of Pentecostalism. This document also includes a section that provides a careful analysis of every passage in the New Testament related to the subject of tongues. For information about obtaining this PDF resource, click here.Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make “tax-deductible” donations here.Upcoming Events• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To help support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

Mormons know their religion is true because they experience a “burning in the bosom.” Pentecostal Christians believe they have proof of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit because they speak in tongues. So how are we to know which religious experiences are truly authentic? Is experience a proper way to ground faith in the first place? On this episode, Shane talks with Dr. J.R. Miller, co-founder of The Center for Cultural Apologetics about his book, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, which traces the history of the “subjective turn” that has taken root in many Christian circles over the past few centuries.SHOW NOTESRelated ResourcesActs 2 & The Tongues Controversy, by Shane RosenthalThe Mormonization of American Christianity, by Shane RosenthalOne Lord, One Faith, One Baptism, by J.R. MillerIs Faith a Feeling?, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 4The Jesus of History, The Humble Skeptic, Episode 12A Brand New ResourceShane recently expanded his article on Acts 2 & The Tongues Controversy into a 26-page downloadable PDF document, which includes background information about the origins of Pentecostalism, along with a brand new section that provides a careful analysis of every passage in the New Testament related to the subject of tongues. For more information about this new resource, click here. Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make “tax-deductible” donations here.Upcoming Events• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever noticed that conversations about religion and politics tend to produce more heat than light? Because most of us are aware of this, we tend to avoid conversations relating to our deepest convictions. So how can we discuss our beliefs with others in a way that ends up producing more light than heat? How do we have difficult conversations on controversial topics such as the use of personal pronouns? On this episode, Shane talks with Greg Koukl about his forthcoming book Street Smarts: Using Questions to Answer Christianity's Toughest Questions.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksStreet Smarts, by Greg KouklTactics, by Greg KouklLive Not By Lies, Rod DreherRecommended ArticlesI'd Like to Have an Argument, Please, by Greg KouklRecovering the Art of Persuasion, by Shane RosenthalIron Curtain Diary, by Greg KouklRecommended AudioGreg Koukl on Blind FaithDealing with DoubtGreg Koukl on The Problem of EvilWalking in Wisdom Toward OutsidersThe Cult of Soft Totalitarianism (Shane's full interview with Rod Dreher, Pt. 1)Christianity vs. Woke Ideology (Shane's full interview with Rod Dreher, Pt. 2)Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make “tax-deductible” donations here.Upcoming Events• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

Have you ever been puzzled by things you read in the Bible? For example, why does the book of Exodus spend so much time walking through all the meticulous details related to the Tabernacle? On this episode, Shane Rosenthal talks with J. Daniel Hays about the Bible's grand narrative, which helps us to understand all the individual puzzle pieces. Dr. Hays is senior professor of Old Testament at Southwestern Baptist Seminary in Ft. Worth, Texas, and he's the author of The Temple and the Tabernacle: A Study of God's Dwelling Places from Genesis to Revelation.SHOW NOTESRecommended BooksThe Temple & The Tabernacle, by J. Daniel HaysA Christian's Guide to Evidence for the Bible, by J. Daniel HaysGod Dwells Among Us, by G.K. Beale & Mitchell KimThe Temple & The Church's Mission, by G.K. BealeRecommended ArticlesWhat's the Most Important Thing Taught in the Bible?, by Shane RosenthalThe Story of Us, by Shane Rosenthal A New Way of Reading Scripture, by Shane RosenthalWhy Should We Believe the Bible?, by Shane RosenthalRecommended EpisodesWhat Did The Earliest Christians Believe?The Gospel CreedFaith & ProofSupport The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make “tax-deductible” donations here.Upcoming Events• What Child is This? That's the name of a talk Shane will be giving on Jesus' fulfillment of messianic prophecy at Concord Church in St. Louis on Dec. 17, 2023, at 9 am.• Can We Trust The Story of Jesus' Birth? That's the subject Shane will be addressing at the next Friday Night Forum at 7 pm on Dec. 1st, 2023 in St. Charles, Missouri (cpcopc.org).• Shane will be the keynote speaker at The Cross & Resurrection conference in the Memphis area on March 29-31, 2024.• The Humble Skeptic podcast and ReThink315 will be hosting a conference titled, Conversations That Matter, featuring Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal, and Jeremy Smith on April 5-6, 2024 at Concord Church in St. Louis.• Greg Koukl, Shane Rosenthal & Jeremy Smith will be giving talks on apologetics-related topics at The Fellowship of Wildwood on April 7, 2024.• For more information, or to invite Shane Rosenthal to speak at your upcoming conference or event, send an email to INFO at HUMBLESKEPTIC dot COM.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

What were some of the notable features of the earliest Christian sermons? What sort of things did they have in common, and how do they compare with the messages we're likely to hear in Christian circles today? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions and more with Dr. Dennis Johnson, author of The Message of Acts in the History of Redemption, and Let's Study Acts.SHOW NOTES• Recommended books by Dennis Johnson: Journeys with Jesus, The Message of Acts in the History of Redemption, Let's Study Acts, and Him We Proclaim.• Related articles by Shane Rosenthal: “Can We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement?”, “The Story of Us”, “On Faith & History”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, “What is Faith?”, and “How to Detect Deception?”• Related episodes: “Authenticating the Book of Acts”, “Faith & Certainty”, “Faith & Proof”, “Proof of the Gospel”, “The Gospel Creed”, and “The Jesus of History.”• The image above featuring the Jerusalem Temple from the vantage point of Solomon's Portico is a production of Archaeology Illustrated, and is used by permission. According to John 10:23, Acts 3:11, and 5:12, Jesus and his followers frequently met in this area.Support The Humble Skeptic!Click here to make a one-time gift to help support this podcast, or consider becoming a paid subscriber via Substack by using the green “subscribe” button below ($5.95 per month / $59 per year). You can also make “tax-deductible” donations here.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe

Is the book of Acts a collection of stories and legends about the lives of the apostles, or is it a trustworthy and reliable history of the earliest days of the church? Is there any external evidence that helps to corroborate its claims? Shane Rosenthal discusses these questions and more with Dr. Lydia McGrew, author of Hidden in Plain View: Undesigned Coincidences in the Gospels and Acts.SHOW NOTES• Recommended books by Lydia McGrew: Hidden in Plain View, Testimonies to the Truth, and The Mirror & The Mask. Other recommended books: The Book of Acts in the Setting of Hellenistic History, by Colin Hemer, and The Book of Acts by F.F. Bruce.• Related articles by Shane Rosenthal: “Can We Trust Luke's History of the Early Jesus Movement?”, “On Faith & History”, “Authenticating The Fourth Gospel”, “Why Should We Believe The Bible?”, and “How to Detect Deception?”• Related episodes: “Fake or Authentic? (1)”, “Fake or Authentic? (2)” “Faith Founded on Facts (1)”, “Faith Founded on Facts (2)”, “Faith & Certainty”• The Humble Skeptic in association with ReThink315 will be hosting an apologetics event here in the St. Louis area in early April, 2024 featuring Greg Koukl, Jeremy Smith and Shane Rosenthal. Also, Shane will be leading a listener tour throughout Israel in the Fall of 2024. More information about both of these events will become available soon.• To put something in the TIP JAR, click here, or consider upgrading to one of the paid subscription options via Substack by using the green button below. If you'd like your gift to be “tax-deductible,” click here, and for more information about The Humble Skeptic vision, click here.The Humble Skeptic is a listener-supported podcast. To support this work, consider becoming a paid subscriber. Get full access to The Humble Skeptic at shanerose.substack.com/subscribe