Love and Context

In this conversation, Spencer and Ben delve into the themes of 3rd John, focusing on the importance of love, community, and discernment in the Christian faith. They discuss the significance of supporting good teachers while being cautious of those who compromise the truth of Jesus. The conversation highlights the need for church leaders to maintain their integrity and goodness despite negative influences and emphasizes the inseparable nature of love for God and love for others.

In this conversation, Ben and Spencer discuss the context and themes of the book of 2 John.

In this episode, Ben and Spencer discuss the book of Philemon, which is a letter written by Paul to Philemon, a wealthy man who owned slaves. The letter is about a slave named Onesimus who ran away from Philemon and found Paul while he was in prison. Through their encounter, Onesimus became a follower of Jesus and Paul writes a letter to Philemon on his behalf, urging him to treat Onesimus as a brother rather than a slave. The conversation explores the themes of love, forgiveness, and the equal playing field in the church.

In this episode, Spencer and Ben discuss the book of Jude. Jude, written by one of the brothers of Jesus, is a very Jewish book that addresses false teaching and immorality. Jude emphasizes the importance of contending for the faith by living differently and putting God on display. Jude references various Jewish literature and Old Testament stories to make his points. The overall message of Jude is that God is the one who holds believers together and will bring them into His glorious presence.

Today's conversation discusses the book of Obadiah, which is a prophecy against the country of Edom. It explores the historical context and the conflict between Jacob and Esau, which continues through their descendants. The conversation emphasizes the importance of not being complacent in the face of injustice and the need to take action to help others. It also highlights the role of God as the ultimate judge and the promise of restoration for Israel. The conversation concludes with a reminder to engage with the Spirit and step out of our comfort zones for the sake of the gospel.

In this conversation, Ben and Spencer discuss various topics related to the book of James. They highlight three main takeaways: 1) Life is not easy, but it presents an opportunity for God to do great things. 2) James emphasizes the importance of treating people well and not showing partiality, including in political contexts. 3) Words have power and can either build up or tear down relationships. Ben and Spencer also encourage listeners to have conversations with others about faith and life, as it can provide support and encouragement in their journey.

In this conversation, Ben and Spencer discuss the themes of building a foundation on God, being forward-thinking, and using wealth responsibly. They emphasize the importance of real relationships and vulnerability within the church, as well as the need for gentle correction and restoration. The conversation also touches on the significance of confessing sins and praying for one another. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of living in a way that honors God and brings about righteousness.

Summer has been really hard for us with all of our travel, because of that we are not going to post any more episodes for July and will begin posting weekly again the first week of August. Thank you for all of you that listen!

In this episode, Spencer and Ben discuss the importance of not judging others and making plans without considering God's will. They also addresses the issue of wealth and how it should be used to bless others. James warns the rich about the consequences of their actions and emphasizes the need for generosity and humility. The episode highlights the importance of recognizing that everything we have is a blessing from God and should be used to further His kingdom. In this part of the conversation, James discusses the importance of blessing and providing for one's family, as well as being generous givers beyond the tithe. He emphasizes the need to balance obligations and generosity, citing examples from the Old and New Testaments. The conversation then shifts to the topic of wealth and comfort, with Spencer highlighting the need to be willing to give up comforts and possessions if called by God. Spencer also discusses the disconnect between love and money in churches, emphasizing the importance of valuing and appreciating volunteers. Ben concludes with a discussion on patience, perseverance, and not judging others.

In this episode, Ben and Spencer discuss the destructive power of the tongue and the importance of using our words wisely. They emphasize the need for humility and grace in our speech, especially for those in leadership positions. They also highlight the dangers of gossip and envy, and the importance of being content and sincere in our interactions with others. The episode concludes with a reminder to resist the devil and to approach conflicts with love and understanding.Key TakeawaysThe tongue has the power to both build up and destroy, so we must be careful with our words.Gossip and envy can be destructive and can harm relationships.Humility and grace are essential in our speech, especially for leaders.Contentment and sincerity are important in our interactions with others.Conflicts are inevitable, but we should approach them with love and understanding.

In this episode, Ben and Brian continue their discussion on the Book of James. They focus on the themes of listening, speaking, and anger, emphasizing the importance of being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. They also discuss the idea of being doers of the word, not just hearers, and how our theology should lead to action. They then delve into the topic of showing favoritism and the importance of treating all people equally, as taught in Jewish tradition. They highlight the need for the church to care for the poor, widows, and orphans, and the significance of living out our faith through acts of mercy and love. In this conversation, James emphasizes the importance of loving others and living a holy life. He reminds listeners that loving their neighbors as themselves is a central commandment in the Torah. James encourages believers to live differently from the world and to show no partiality based on wealth, status, or abilities. He highlights the need to see people as God sees them and to look for the gold in others. James also emphasizes the importance of faith being accompanied by action, using the examples of Abraham and Rahab. He challenges believers to live out their faith and to manifest righteousness in their actions.

In this episode, Brian Qualls joins Ben to discuss the Book of James. They explore the background of the book and its author, James, the half-brother of Jesus. They emphasize that James is writing specifically to Jewish Christians and that his teachings should not be seen as conflicting with Paul's teachings. They also highlight the importance of understanding the Jewish context and traditions that James references. The main focus of the discussion is on the idea of facing trials with joy and seeking wisdom from God. They emphasize that trials are opportunities for God to refine and shape us, and that wisdom from God is essential in navigating these trials. They also discuss the contrast between godly wisdom and worldly wisdom, and the importance of having a right relationship with God. In this conversation, Ben and Brian discuss the importance of walking in relationship with God and seeking His wisdom. They highlight the example of Solomon, who had wisdom but lacked a heart bent towards God, leading to his downfall. They emphasize the need to live beyond oneself and plan for the future, especially in the context of succession in the church. They also discuss the significance of trials and how they shape and prepare us for the storms of life. The conversation concludes with a focus on living for God in the midst of chaos and loving one another well, even in disagreement.

In this conversation, Ben and Spencer discuss the concept of hypocrisy and its implications in the context of Christianity. They explore the origins of the word 'hypocrite' and its association with actors in ancient Greece. They highlight the tendency to label others as hypocrites based on minor differences in beliefs or practices, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the motivation of the heart. The hosts also discuss the dangers of playing for the applause of others and the need to prioritize the more important matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. They encourage authentic relationships with God and others, rather than conforming to a set of external expectations.

In this conversation, Ben and Spencer discuss creating safe places within the church. They acknowledge that while the desire to create a safe environment is good, true safety means being void of risk, and the gospel increases risk in life. They explore biblical examples of how following Jesus is not easy or safe, and how the church should be a transformative place where people can experience healing and redemption. They emphasize the importance of accepting the messiness of people's lives and the risks involved in shining the light of Jesus in the world. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the concept of safety in churches and how it relates to the gospel. They emphasize that churches should strive to be transformative rather than safe places, as the gospel is for everyone, including those who may be seen as dangerous or undesirable. They draw parallels to everyday activities that carry risks, such as driving a car or flying in an airplane, and highlight the importance of mitigating risks rather than avoiding them completely. The speakers also discuss the reputation of churches and the need to prioritize the reputation of Jesus over pleasing man. They emphasize the importance of stewardship, not just of money, but of everything entrusted to us, including the gospel. They encourage churches to take risks and step out of their comfort zones to bring about transformation in their communities.

SummaryThe conversation revolves around the topic of healing, both physical and emotional. The hosts discuss the importance of recognizing and validating different types of pain, and the need for the church to create a safe and transformative space for healing. They explore biblical examples of healing, from the Old Testament to the ministry of Jesus, emphasizing that healing is not limited to a specific time. The hosts also address the fear of failure and the messiness of engaging in healing ministry. They highlight the significance of humility and accepting the risk involved in helping others find healing. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the topic of healing and share personal stories of experiencing and ministering healing. They emphasize the importance of being obedient to God's leading and demonstrating the fruit of the Spirit to effectively minister healing to others. They also caution against overcomplicating the gifts of healing and highlight the need for a settled relationship with God before engaging in healing ministry. The hosts encourage listeners to give what they have received freely and to trust in God's timing and outcome.00:00 - Introduction and Personal Chaos07:11 - What Does the Bible Say About Healing?14:18 - Jesus' Commission to Heal32:06 - Overcoming the Fear of Failure in Healing39:46 - The Greatest Healing46:59 - Ministering Healing as Recipients53:42 - The Power of Simple Acts01:04:01 - Trusting in God's Timing and Outcome01:11:18 - Avoiding Overcomplication in Gifts of Healing

SummaryIn this episode, Ben and Spencer are joined today by Spencer's wife Lindsay as they discuss the spiritual gift of tongues. They emphasize the importance of love for God and others as a foundation for operating in spiritual gifts. They also highlight the need to hear the voice of God and bear the fruit of the Spirit before engaging in the gifts. The hosts explain that tongues can manifest in different ways, including speaking in known languages for the purpose of evangelism and speaking in an unknown heavenly language for personal prayer and worship. They discuss the importance of structure and interpretation when speaking in tongues in a public setting. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of finding common ground and connecting with others when sharing the message of God. They emphasize the need to adapt to the changing knowledge and understanding of younger generations. They also highlight the significance of the Holy Spirit in everyday life and how it can manifest through speaking in tongues. The speakers caution against focusing too much on tongues and neglecting other spiritual gifts. They stress the importance of unity and love within the body of believers and the need to test spiritual experiences against scripture.

We take one more week as a break from our miniseries as we get caught up from sickness in our families and guest families. This week we talk about the dark side of social media and how the church is being invaded by troll-like behavior. Spencer and Ben discuss how we avoid engaging this behavior as Christians and live for Christ in our day-to-day lives. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleBema Podcast with Marty Solomonwww.bibleproject.comwww.walkingthetext.com

This week we put together an episode to discuss some of our favorite resources due to sickness throughout our families and town. We will continue our mini-series on spiritual gifts next week. Suggested ResourcesBema Podcast with Marty SolomonYouVersion Bible AppBlue Letter Bible AppDwell (Bible reading) AppBible Project with Tim MackieAlephbeta.org and Rabbi David FohrmanFrancis Chan

This week we talk about the gift of prophecy, what it is as well as what it is not. We discuss how we, as the church, can engage it regardless of our perspective on the spiritual gifts. Suggested Resources:Bible1 CorinthiansBooksCulture of Honor - Danny SilkPracticing the Power - Sam StormsExperiencing God - Henry BlackabyThe forgotten God - Francis chanRaging with Compassion Prophetic Imagination - Walter BrugermanThe prophets - Abraham Herschel

This week we dive into the fruit of the Spirit. What does it mean to walk by the Spirit and why is this crucial when we walk in the Spiritual gifts discussed in the Epistles?Suggested ResourcesBibleGalatians1 CorinthiansEphesiansJamesBooksD. Thomas Lancaster's "Holy Epistle to the Galatians"Dallas Willard's "The Divine Conspiracy"Bema Discipleship3-4 Episodes of Galatians in Session 4www.bibleproject.comwww.alephbeta.org

This week we are joined by Les Cronk as we discuss what it means to "hear" the voice of God and the importance of an intentional relationship with God when pursuing Spiritual Gifts. Suggested ResourcesBooksHearing God - Dallas WillardTranslating God - Shawn BolzPracticing the Way - John Mark ComerExperiencing God - Henry BlackabyBiblewww.alephbeta.orgwww.bibleproject.comwww.bemadiscipleship.com

This week we begin our new miniseries talking about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We are joined by Brian Qualls, a pastor from the Salvation Army, as we discuss how the foundation of all spiritual gifts is built on the bedrock of loving God and loving people. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleBookUnpunishable - Danny SilkLoving People: How to love and be Loved - John TownsendCrazy Love - Francis ChanLove Does & Everybody Always - Bob Goff5 Love Languages & 5 Languages of Apology - Dr. Gary Chapmanwww.bibleproject.comwww.alephbeta.orgwww.bemadiscipleship.com

This week we tackle the verses often used to argue for women not being permitted to serve in pastoral roles. Perhaps those verses don't mean what we think they mean. Suggested Resources:Bible1 Corinthians1 TimothyTitusBooksKenneth BaileyPaul through Mediterranean Eyes and Jesus Through Middle Eastern EyesBT RobertsOrdaining WomenBeth Allison BarrThe Making of Biblical WomanhoodScott McKnightA Place Called TovNancy BeachGifted to LeadLauren CunninghamWhat Paul Really SaidWalkingthetext.comAlephbeta.orgBibleproject.comblueletterbible.org

This week we are joined by Pastor Sarah as we discuss women and their roles throughout church history.Suggested ResourcesBibleBookBT Roberts - "Ordaining Women"Kenneth Bailey - "Jesus through Middle Eastern Eyes"Corrie Ten Boom - "The Hiding Place"Corrie Ten Boom - "Tramp for the Lord"Bob Goff - "Everybody Always"Bruce Shelley - "Church History in Plain English"Dark Night of the SoulImmaculée Ilibagiza - "Left to Tell"Bema Podcast with Marty SolomonThe Bible ProjectAlephbeta.orgWalkingthetext.com

This week we are joined by Jamie Mitchell as we discuss the role of women in the early church. We will discuss how they served in effective ministry throughout the entire New Testament and discuss how this impacts the role of women in ministry in the modern era. Suggested ResourcesBibleActs - RevelationBookBT Roberts - "Ordaining Women"Kenneth Bailey - "Jesus through Middle Eastern Eyes"Corrie Ten Boom - "The Hiding Place"Crucial ConversationsBema Podcast with Marty SolomonThe Bible ProjectAlephbeta.orgWalkingthetext.com

This week we are joined by Dominque King as we dive into the ministry of Jesus and his interactions with women in the gospels. Suggested ResourcesBibleGospels - Matthew, Mark, Luke, JohnBookBT Roberts - "Ordaining Women"Kenneth Bailey - "Jesus through Middle Eastern Eyes"Corrie Ten Boom - "The Hiding Place"Bema Podcast with Marty SolomonThe Bible ProjectAlephbeta.orgWalkingthetext.com

We are joined again by Captain Shelby from the Salvation Army as we delve into the stories of the women that are mentioned in the lineage of Jesus in Matthew 1. Suggested ResourcesBibleGenealogy - Matthew 1Tamar - GenesisRehab - JoshuaRuth - RuthBathsheba - Samuel/KingsBema Podcast with Marty SolomonThe Bible ProjectAlephbeta.orgWalkingthetext.comRuth MiniseriesBooksGay Girl Good God - Jackie Hill Perry

This week, Captain Shelby from the Salvation Army joins us as we discuss a few women in the Hebrew Scriptures who operated in leadership. Suggested ResourcesBibleMiriam - Exodus/NumbersDeborah - JudgesEsther - Book of EstherHuldah - ChroniclesBema Podcast with Marty SolomonThe Bible ProjectAlephbeta.orgBooksPaul Through Mediterranean Eyes - Kenneth BaileyThe Queen you thought you knew - Rabbi David Fohrman

This week we continue our discussion of women in the bible focusing on women who were the conduit of the promises of God in the Hebrew scriptures. Suggested ResourcesBible - Genesis 12-50Bema Podcast with Marty SolomonEpisode 8Episode 217The Bible ProjectAlephbeta.orgWe did have a couple of audio issues during the recording of the first two episodes of this series, we have since fixed that issue.

This week we begin our first miniseries of season 2, we start looking at the foundation of the relationship between God, humanity, men, and women as it is established in the Torah and, more specifically, the book of Genesis. We did have a couple of audio issues during the recording of the first two episodes of this series, we have since fixed that issue.

Today we introduce our content plans for season 2. New episodes are being recorded now and will resume next Friday. Catch up with our most recent episodes and connect with us on social media.

We're answering your questions. We receive questions from people throughout the series and take 1-2 episodes every season to answer as many as we can. If you have questions please feel free to send them to us for our next Q&A. Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectBibleAlephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahBema Podcast with Marty SolomonDwell Bible Reading App

Today we wrap up Deuteronomy with our guest Caleb. We look at the epitaph of Moses and consider what Deuteronomy has taught us over the series. Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 31-34Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahLove and Context PodcastEpisode 31 "Who do you trust?"Dwell Bible Reading App

We continue on our journey through Deuteronomy. We explore the curses, the blessings, and living by the Sh'ma. Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 26-30Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahLove and Context PodcastEpisode 32 "Look Up"Dwell Bible Reading AppKenneth BaileyBook - "Paul through Mediterranean Eyes"

Today we dive into the parts of the Law related to living at peace in your community. How will Israel live at peace with one another now that they will no longer be nomadic? What do these laws have to teach us about how we follow Jesus today?Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 19-25Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahBema Podcast with Marty SolomonAbolish & Fulfill Episode 95

We are joined this week again by our friend Pastor Sarah as we discuss Deut 16-18, as we talk about justice, the role of judges, and the responsibility of kings. Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 16-18Love and Context PodcastEpisode 29 "Grumble in the Desert"Episode 27 "A test, a vow, a blessing"Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahBema Podcast with Marty Solomon

We are joined this week by our friend Pastor Sarah as we discuss Deut 12-15 and talk about Moses' instructions for worship, how to stay on track, and the long-term effects it should have on your life. Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 12-15Love and Context PodcastEpisode 15 "The 10 Words of God"Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahBema Podcast with Marty Solomon

This week Moses urges us to remember what God has done. He gives instructions on what it looks like when you obey and follow God, and how we should remember the Torah in all circumstances.Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 7-11Love and Context PodcastEpisode 15 "The 10 Words of God"Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahBema Podcast with Marty Solomon

We look again, this time in Deuteronomy, at the 10 words of God. What can we learn about how we interact with God and humanity in the commandments? Additionally, we talk about the Sh'ma and its implications for us as followers of Christ. Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 5-6Love and Context PodcastEpisode 15 "The 10 Words of God"Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahBema Podcast with Marty Solomon

We start our look into book five of the Torah, Deuteronomy. How does this book relate to the rest of the story that has been taking place in the Torah, and how does Moses speak to the next generation?Suggested ResourcesBible ProjectVideo - Deuteronomy Overview videoBibleDeuteronomy ch. 1-4Alephbeta.orgRabbi David Fohrman's teachings on TorahBema Podcast with Marty Solomon

Wrapping up the book of Numbers and choosing to look at the world generationally. Reviewing the key themes and stories and how they come to a conclusion in Numbers.Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapter 25 - endThe Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.org

Today we will be discussing the story of Balaam and Balak. They connect with other figures in the Torah and as they consider who they will be, we also consider who we, as modern followers of Jesus, will be.Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapter 22-25The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgDavid PlattBook - "Radical"Bema Podcast with Marty Solomonhttps://www.bemadiscipleship.com/34

Today we're in Numbers 21, so what is happening with these snakes and the bronze snake? How does this connect to John 3? Join us on the conversation today. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapter 21John 3The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgEd McDowellBook - "A Well-Planted Faith in an Uprooted Culture: A 30-Day Devotional with Guided Journal Entries"

What's the deal with Moses and the rock? This week we discuss what happens when leaders step outside of what God is calling them to do. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapter 20The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgBema Podcast with Marty SolomonEpisode 18 - "A Tale of Two Kingdoms"Episode 233 - "Striking the Rock with Josh Bosse"Greek/Hebrewwww.blueletterbible.org

We continue our walk through the book of Numbers taking a look at the rising grumblings of Israel and the bad report of the spies to the promised land. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapter 12-17The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgGreek/Hebrewwww.blueletterbible.orgHenry BlackabyStudy - "Experiencing God"

Today we look at the story of the Israelites in the desert as they start to grumble against God and against their leadership. We also talk about the division of the Spirit among the 72 elders. Pastor Nick is back and joining in the discussion. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapter 11The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgGreek/Hebrewwww.blueletterbible.org

Continuing our discussion in the book of Numbers we examine the anointing/consecration of the Tent of Meetings. Additionally we talk about what it means to follow the cloud of God wherever He leads. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapters 7-10The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comHenry BlackabyStudy - "Experiencing God"Rabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgGreek/Hebrewwww.blueletterbible.org

Today we continue our discussion through the book of Numbers. Today we focus on three particular portions; the test for an unfaithful wife, the Nazarite vow, and the Priestly blessing. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapters 5-7The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comBrad GrayBook - "Make Your Mark"www.walkingthetext.comBema PodcastEpisode 36 - "The Redemption Cycle"Rabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgGreek/Hebrewwww.blueletterbible.org

Today we discuss the book of Numbers; what is this book and why does it matter? If you have questions as you are listening please submit them as you are listening. Periodically we will do Q&A episodes where we address questions that come up and we would like to be able to answer those questions. Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapters 1-4The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgGreek/Hebrewwww.blueletterbible.orgDwell AppAvailable on IOS and Google Play

This week we answer your questions that you've had in our podcast so far. Keep sending us questions we will keep doing these episodes as long as they are helpful.The BibleBema Podcast with Marty SolomonEpisode 1 "What is Bema?"BT RobertsBook - "Ordaining Women"Kenneth BaileyBook - "Paul through Mediterranean Eyes"The Bible Projectwww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.org