The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Episode 235 examines Numbers 12:3—"Now, Moses was very humble..."—asking whether this sounds like a boast or a divine assessment. Lance Smith walks through the context, Hebrew meaning, manuscript evidence, and scholarly views to show why the verse explains Moses' silence and humility rather than contradicting Mosaic authorship. Listeners will hear how the term ʿānāv can mean humble or afflicted, how Numbers 11–12 shape our understanding of Moses' character, and why ancient manuscripts and theological insight support the verse's reliability and purpose. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI Dead Sea Scrolls Digital Library. Manuscript 4Q27 (4QNum^b). Accessed via https://www.deadseascrolls.org.il/explore-the-archive/manuscript/4Q27-1 Rogers, Cleon. “Moses: Meek or Miserable?” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 29/3 (1986): 257–263. Available at: https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/files_JETS-PDFs_29_29-3_29-3-pp257-263_JETS.pdf Dawes, Stephen B. “Numbers 12.3: What Was Special About Moses?” The Bible Translator 41, no. 3 (July 1990). Ward, Doug. “The Meanings of Moses’ Meekness.” http://graceandknowledge.faithweb.com/num12.html “How could Moses write this, if he was more humble than all men?” Evidence Unseen. https://evidenceunseen.com/old-testament/numbers/difficulties/how-could-moses-write-this-if-he-was-more-humble-than-all-men Butt, Kyle. “How Humble Could Moses Have Been?” Apologetics Press, 2002. https://apologeticspress.org/how-humble-could-moses-have-been-939/ Jeff. “How Can Moses Say He is the Most Humble Man on the Earth?” Anti-Itch Meditation, February 21, 2023. https://antiitchmeditation.wordpress.com/2023/02/21/how-can-moses-say-he-is-the-most-humble-man-on-the-earth/ Hamilton, Jim. “Failed Humblebrag? Mosaic Self-Promotion? Or True Humility?” September 14, 2011. https://jimhamilton.info/2011/09/14/failed-humblebrag-mosaic-self-promotion-or-true-humility/ “Evidence for Mosaic Authorship of the Torah.” Answers in Genesis. https://answersingenesis.org/bible-characters/moses/evidence-mosaic-authorship-of-torah/ Rashi, Commentary on Numbers 12:3. (See standard editions or Sefaria.org for English rendering: “ענו means, humble and patient.”)

In episode 234 Lance Smith examines Matthew 19:4–6 and the Genesis creation accounts to answer whether God originally made humans male and female. He contrasts Genesis 1’s overview with Genesis 2’s detailed account, shows how Jesus uses creation as the authority on marriage and gender, and argues that the Bible presents maleness and femaleness as God’s original design. The episode also addresses contemporary cultural challenges, urges churches to hold to Scripture’s teaching, and offers compassion and hope to listeners wrestling with gender questions. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/male_and_female.html Troy Lacey, “Does Genesis 1:27 Mean That God Originally Created Adam with Both Genders?” Answers in Genesis, July 1, 2022. https://answersingenesis.org/family/gender/god-created-adam-both-genders/ Ryan Pauly, “Are Genesis 1 and 2 Contradictory Creation Accounts?” Think Well, January 2, 2018. https://think-well.org/2018/01/02/are-genesis-1-and-2-contradictory-creation-accounts/ Carey Griffel, “Are Genesis 1 and 2 Separate Creation Accounts? Comparing the Two Stories,” Genesis Marks the Spot. https://www.genesismarksthespot.com/blog/two-creation-accounts-in-genesis-1-2/ “What does the Bible mean by ‘male and female He created them’ (Genesis 1:27)?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/male-and-female-He-created-them.html “Male and Female Forever? Complementarity in the New Creation,” Desiring God. https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/male-and-female-forever Eikon: A Journal for Biblical Anthropology, Fall 2019 issue (Council on Biblical Manhood & Womanhood). Free PDF: https://cbmw.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/eikon_issue2_web_2.pdf

Join Lance Smith for a special Easter episode as he slows down to sit with the greatest moment in history: the empty tomb. He examines the differing Gospel details not as contradictions but as complementary eyewitness perspectives that deepen the story. More than a historical event, the resurrection is presented as a present, life-changing reality—proof that broken things can be restored and that hope defeats death. Lance offers a simple challenge: read Luke 24, reflect on the shift from confusion to joy, and invite the risen Jesus to renew your heart.

Join Lance Smith for a Good Friday special exploring the crucifixion across Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, showing how different perspectives converge on one redemptive event. He reflects on prophecy fulfilled, the personal cost of sin, and the hope of resurrection, inviting listeners to pause, read the accounts slowly, and let the cross speak into their lives.

Episode 231: Lance Smith examines Numbers 11:31–34 to answer a stark question: why did God strike the Israelites after providing quail? Drawing on context, biblical commentary, and possible natural causes, he shows the issue was not the food but the people’s ungrateful, craving hearts and hoarding behavior. The episode contrasts God’s daily provision with Israel’s persistent grumbling, explains how the quail became a test and judgment, and applies the lesson to modern life by urging contentment in Christ. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI Guzik, David. “Numbers 11.” Enduring Word Bible Commentary. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-11/ Utley, Bob. “Numbers 11.” Free Bible Commentary. https://www.freebiblecommentary.org/old_testament_studies/VOL02COT/VOL02COT_11.html “What were the quail mentioned in the Bible?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/quail-in-the-Bible.html Wilkinson, John. “The Quail Epidemic of Numbers 11:31-34.” Evangelical Quarterly (1999). https://www.biblicalstudies.org.uk/pdf/eq/1999-3_195.pdf “Complaint and Judgment – Numbers 11.” Redeemed Mind (2022). https://redeemedmind.com/2022/12/16/complaint-and-judgment-numbers-11/

Episode 230 examines Matthew 19 and related passages to resolve skeptics' claims that the Bible contradicts itself about marriage. Lance Smith argues the Bible consistently presents marriage as a good, sacred, creational union while also affirming singleness as a legitimate calling for some. The episode explains Genesis, Jesus' teaching, Paul's guidance, and church history to show there is no contradiction—only two complementary callings designed by God. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/marriage.html Oyeniyi, Oluseye David. “The Theology of Marriage in Matthew 19:1-12 as a Response to Marital Instability in African Christian Communities.” Pan-African Journal of Theology, Vol. 4, No. 2, 2025, pp. 1-20. https://doi.org/10.56893/pajot2025v04i02.01 Guzik, David. Enduring Word Bible Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/1-corinthians-7/ GotQuestions.org: • “Better to Marry Than to Burn”: https://www.gotquestions.org/better-to-marry-than-to-burn.html • “What Does the Bible Say About a Christian Staying Single?”: https://www.gotquestions.org/single-Christian.html “The Significance of Singleness: A Theological Vision for the Future of the Church” (Denver Journal, Denver Seminary): https://denverjournal.denverseminary.edu/the-denver-journal-article/the-significance-of-singleness-a-theological-vision-for-the-future-of-the-church/ “Singleness in the Bible” (Renew.org): https://renew.org/singleness-in-the-bible “What is the Gift of Singleness?” (Living Out): https://www.livingout.org/resources/articles/51/what-is-the-gift-of-singleness “When Did the Catholic Church Decide Priests Should Be Celibate?” (History News Network): https://www.historynewsnetwork.org/article/when-did-the-catholic-church-decide-priests-should-be-celibate

In this episode Lance Smith examines an apparent contradiction between Numbers 2 and Numbers 11 about whether the tabernacle was inside or outside Israel's camp. He explains the camp's arrangement—with the tabernacle at the center, Levites surrounding it, and the tribes camped in four groups—and why the phrase “Moses went out” refers to leaving a tribal section toward the center. The episode shows how that layout resolves the difficulty, highlights God’s presence in the midst of his people, and notes how the Spirit moved freely when 70 elders (and two who stayed back) began to prophesy. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI Farber, Zev. “The Other Ohel Moed.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-other-ohel-moed Guzik, David. Enduring Word Bible Commentary on Numbers 11. Blue Letter Bible. https://www.blueletterbible.org/comm/guzik_david/study-guide/numbers/numbers-11.cfm Jeon, Jaeyoung. “Israel’s Wilderness Camp Modeled on the Persian Military Formation.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/israels-wilderness-camp-modeled-on-the-persian-military-formation “Tabernacle Camp of Israel.” Bible Discovery TV, June 9, 2021. https://biblediscoverytv.com/history/2021/tabernacle-camp-of-israel/ Tsegaw, Melak A. “An Inquiry into the Historicity of the Tabernacle in Ancient Israel.” American Journal of Biblical Theology, Volume 20 (03), January 20, 2019. https://www.biblicaltheology.com/Research/TsegawMA01.pdf

Host Lance Smith examines Matthew 18:3 and the apparent tension with Paul's admonition to "put away childish things." The episode explains the crucial distinction between childish immaturity and childlike trust, drawing on Gospel contexts and Luke's emphasis on Jesus welcoming children. Listeners receive practical applications: grow in spiritual maturity while embracing humble dependence on God. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/childish.html Abera Abay, “Children in the Gospel of Luke” (African Theological Journal for Church and Society, vol. 2, no. 2, 2021) BibleRef, “Matthew 18:3 – Meaning and Commentary”: https://www.bibleref.com/Matthew/18/Matthew-18-3.html Answers in Genesis, “Act Like a Child?”: https://answersingenesis.org/contradictions-in-the-bible/act-like-a-child/ GotQuestions.org, “Does the Bible instruct us to have childlike faith?”: https://www.gotquestions.org/childlike-faith.html The Gospel Coalition, “Childlike Faith Is Not Childish”: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/childlike-faith-is-not-childish/ Harvest.org (Greg Laurie), “Childlike, Not Childish”: https://harvest.org/resources/devotion/childlike-not-childish/ Redeeming God, “What is childlike faith? (Matthew 18:3)”: https://redeeminggod.com/childlike-faith-matthew-18-3/ Enduring Word Commentary (David Guzik), “Matthew 18”: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/matthew-18/ A.L. Allen, “For Theirs is the Kingdom: (Re)membering Young Children in the Gospel of Luke” (Doctoral Thesis, Vanderbilt University): https://digitalcommons.du.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1886&context=etd

Episode 227 examines the apparent discrepancy between Exodus 16 and Numbers 11 about the taste of manna. Lance Smith reads the verses, consults scholars and rabbinic traditions, and shows how raw versus prepared manna and overlapping flavors (honey and oil) harmonize the accounts. The episode also reflects on how the changing descriptions mirror Israel’s shifting attitude toward God’s provision and invites listeners to see depth rather than contradiction in Scripture. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI The New Oxford Annotated Bible with the Apocrypha, Third Edition, New Revised Standard Version. Oxford University Press, 2007. BibleRef.com, "What does Exodus 16:31 mean?" https://www.bibleref.com/Exodus/16/Exodus-16-31.html Enduring Word Bible Commentary, Exodus 16, by David Guzik. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/exodus-16/ "Manna from Heaven: What Could Be Better?" by Rabbi Laura Geller, Reform Judaism.org. https://reformjudaism.org/learning/torah-study/torah-commentary/manna-heaven-what-could-be-better "What Was the Bread From Heaven That Saved God's People?" by Jack Zavada, LearnReligions.com. https://www.learnreligions.com/what-is-manna-700742

Host Lance Smith examines the apparent discrepancy in the Gospel accounts of the Transfiguration — Matthew and Mark’s “six days” versus Luke’s “about eight.” He explains how inclusive reckoning, Jewish timekeeping, and theological symbolism reconcile the wording without contradiction. The episode shows how different expressions convey the same event, highlights Sinai parallels and early church interpretation, and presents the apologetic significance of harmony among independent Gospel witnesses. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/transfig.html Eric Lyons, "Six or Eight Days?" (Apologetics Press): https://apologeticspress.org/six-or-eight-days-757/ Kermit Zarley, "When Jesus First Predicted His Death, Was He Transfigured Six Or Eight Days Later?" (Patheos): https://www.patheos.com/blogs/kermitzarleyblog/2017/07/jesus-first-predicted-death-transfigured-six-eight-days-later/ Stephen N. Williams, "The Transfiguration of Jesus Christ" (The Gospel Coalition / Themelios): https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/the-transfiguration-of-jesus-christ Berean Insights, "Bible Gem 913 - Eight Days after These Sayings (Luke 9:28)": https://www.bereaninsights.org/bible-gem-913-8-days-after-these-sayings-luke-928/ Robert Clifton Robinson, "The Transfiguration: Is There A Contradiction Between Matthew, Mark, And Luke?": https://robertcliftonrobinson.com/bible-contradictions-and-difficulties/the-transfiguration-is-there-a-contradiction-between-matthew-mark-and-luke/ Ad Fontes Journal, "The Transfiguration and the Church Fathers": https://adfontesjournal.com/church-history/the-transfiguration-and-the-church-fathers/ Jeff Riddle, "Did the transfiguration take place about eight days after...": http://www.jeffriddle.net/2013/03/did-transfiguration-take-place-about.html Veritas Domain, "Bible Contradiction? When did the transfiguration occur?": https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2018/08/10/bible-contradiction-when-did-the-transfiguration-occur/

In episode 225, Lance Smith examines an apparent tension in Numbers 10 — whether the Ark of the Covenant led Israel or remained in the center of the camp. He compares ancient Jewish interpretations, classical harmonizations, and critical scholarship, and argues that both images are complementary: God dwells in the midst and goes before his people in specific moments of guidance. Through careful reading of the text and commentary, Lance shows how theology and narrative fit together in the march from Sinai toward the Promised Land, and why this detail strengthens rather than weakens confidence in Scripture. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI StudyLight.org Commentary on Numbers 10:33 (including Adam Clarke, Barnes, Gill, Keil & Delitzsch, etc.): https://www.studylight.org/commentary/numbers/10-33.html Enduring Word Commentary on Numbers 10 (David Guzik): https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-10/ "The Song of the Ark – Numbers 10:35–36" by Emanuel Tov, TheTorah.com: https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-song-of-the-ark-numbers-10-35-36 "Israel’s Wilderness Camp Modeled on the Persian Military Formation" by Jaeyoung Jeon, TheTorah.com: https://www.thetorah.com/article/israels-wilderness-camp-modeled-on-the-persian-military-formation "The History of the Use of the Ark (I)" by Rav Yitzchak Levy, Yeshivat Har Etzion: https://www.etzion.org.il/en/tanakh/studies-tanakh/core-studies-tanakh/history-use-ark-i JesusWalk Bible Study on Joshua 3 (entering the land, Ark leading): https://www.jesuswalk.com/joshua/3_entering.htm

In episode 224 Lance Smith examines whether Jesus clearly predicted his death and resurrection by comparing repeated Gospel predictions with John 20:9, which says the disciples didn’t understand. He shows how the issue is not that Jesus failed to warn them but that they lacked the framework to connect his words with Scripture. The episode walks through key Gospel passages, cultural context, and scholarly insights to explain how partial understanding and expectations led to confusion, concluding that there is no contradiction between the accounts. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/comingdeath.html Martin Pickup, “'ON THE THIRD DAY': The Time Frame of Jesus' Death and Resurrection,” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 56/3 (2013): 511–542. https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/files_JETS-PDFs_56_56-3_JETS_56-3_511-542_Pickup.pdf William Lane Craig, “Jesus’ Predictions of His Own Resurrection,” Good Book Blog, Biola University (2014). https://www.biola.edu/blogs/good-book-blog/2014/jesus-predictions-of-his-own-resurrection Cale Clarke, “Did Jesus Really Predict His Death?,” Catholic Answers Magazine. https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/did-jesus-really-predict-his-death Steve Davis, “The Historicity of Jesus’s Death and Resurrection,” Tidings. https://tidings.org/resources/the-historicity-of-jesuss-death-and-resurrection/ “Peter and John at the Tomb of Jesus,” Ligonier Ministries Devotional. https://learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/peter-and-john-at-the-tomb-of-jesus Jeff Scott Kennedy, “Misunderstanding Jesus: Did the Disciples Misunderstand Jesus’ Message and Mission?” BiblicalTheology.com. https://www.biblicaltheology.com/Research/KennedyJS01.pdf

Host Lance Smith examines Numbers 10:31 and the apparent tension between divine guidance (the pillar of cloud) and Moses inviting Hobab as a guide. The episode explains how God’s macro-direction and human practical wisdom work together, clarifies Hobab’s identity as Moses’ brother-in-law and his family’s integration into Israel, and applies the lesson: trusting God doesn’t exclude seeking wise help. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI Guzik, David. “Numbers 10 – Two Silver Trumpets, the Departure from Sinai,” Enduring Word Bible Commentary. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-10/ “Hobab—Jethro or Moses’ Brother-in-Law? (Numbers 10:29),” Knowing Scripture. https://knowingscripture.com/articles/hobab-jethro-or-moses-brother-in-law-numbers-10-29 “Commentary on Numbers 10:11–36,” BiblicalScholarship.org. https://biblicalscholarship.wordpress.com/2017/02/12/commentary-on-numbers-1011-36/ “Who Is Moses’ Father-in-Law: Reuel, Jethro or Hobab?” Abundant Springs Church Blog. https://abundantsprings.church/blog/who-is-moses-father-in-law-reuel-jethro-or-hobab “Numbers 10:33 – The Ark Going Before Israel,” TheBibleSays.com. https://thebiblesays.com/en/commentary/num+10:33 “Numbers 10:29–32: Why did Moses rely on Hobab’s guidance if God was leading them?” BibleHub Q&A. https://biblehub.com/q/why_did_moses_need_hobab's_guidance.htm HarperCollins Study Bible (NRSV), Fully Revised and Updated Edition. Edited by Harold W. Attridge and the Society of Biblical Literature. HarperOne, 2006.

Episode 222 examines an apparent contradiction: did Peter learn Jesus was the Messiah from his brother Andrew (John 1) or by revelation from the Father (Matthew 16)? The host explains these are two moments in Peter’s journey — an initial introduction by Andrew and a later, deeper revelation from God — and shows how the Gospels record the growth from hearing about Jesus to truly knowing him. The episode draws on commentaries and historical interpretation to show the passages complement one another and encourages listeners to move from borrowed belief to personal conviction. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/peter_find_out.html Enduring Word Commentary on Matthew 16 (David Guzik): https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/matthew-16/ Veritas Domain: "Bible Contradiction? How did Peter find out that Jesus was the Messiah?": https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2021/02/25/bible-contradiction-how-did-peter-find-out-that-jesus-was-the-messiah/ Evidence for Christianity: "Does John 1:41 contradict Matthew 16:16-17?": https://evidenceforchristianity.org/does-john-141-contradict-matthew-1616-17-as-to-when-peter-knew-jesus-was-the-messiah/ Religious Studies Center (BYU): "Peter's Keys": https://rsc.byu.edu/ministry-peter-chief-apostle/peters-keys GotQuestions.org: "What did Jesus mean when He said, 'flesh and blood has not revealed this to you'?": https://www.gotquestions.org/flesh-and-blood-has-not-revealed-this-to-you.html Tucker S. Ferda, "The Seventy Faces of Peter's Confession: Matt. 16:16-17 in the History of Interpretation," Biblical Interpretation 20 (2012): 421-457.

Host Lance Smith tackles an apparent contradiction between Numbers 6 and 1 Corinthians 11 about men’s long hair, showing that the Nazarite vow’s uncut hair was a temporary sign of consecration while Paul’s instruction addressed everyday worship practices in Corinth. By exploring cultural and textual context — including Paul’s own vow in Acts 18 — Smith explains there’s no contradiction, only different purposes and settings for the same symbol. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI “What is the Nazirite/Nazarite vow?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/Nazirite-vow.html “Numbers 6: The Nazirite Vow.” oneandall.church. https://www.oneandall.church/story/numbers-6-the-nazirite-vow “The Head Covering: 1 Corinthians 11 – Part Three.” unraveledfaith.ca. https://www.unraveledfaith.ca/post/the-head-covering-1-corinthians-11-part-three “The Cultural Context for the Hair Length/Style vs. Head Coverings Debate in 1 Cor 11.” theologyintheraw.com. https://theologyintheraw.com/the-cultural-context-for-the-hair-length-style-vs-head-coverings-debate-in-1-cor-11-the-meaning-of-kephale-part-12/ “Paul, the Head Covering: An Alternative Interpretation.” kuyperian.com. https://kuyperian.com/paul-the-head-covering-an-alternative-interpretation/

This episode traces the Bible’s changing food story from Genesis’s plant-based ideal, through post‑Flood permission and the Mosaic dietary laws, to Jesus’ and the apostles’ teaching that ceremonial food restrictions no longer bind Christians. Listeners will get a clear, concise answer: New Testament believers are not biblically restricted in what animals they may eat, but they are called to act in love and conscience toward others while honoring creation and personal convictions. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible:https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/eat.html GotQuestions.org – “What does the Bible say about what foods we should eat?”: https://www.gotquestions.org/Bible-foods.html The Gospel Coalition – “You Are What (Animal) You Eat: Bible Dietary Laws” by Andrew Wilson: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/you-are-animal-eat-bible-dietary-laws/ Cambridge Papers – “‘Better a Meal of Vegetables’: Should We Eat Meat?” by Andrew Wilson: https://www.cambridgepapers.org/better-a-meal-of-vegetables-should-we-eat-meat/ Life, Hope & Truth – “Does Acts 10 Abolish the Clean and Unclean Meat Laws?”: https://lifehopeandtruth.com/bible/biblical-laws/clean-and-unclean-animals/acts-10/ The Hidden Orchard – “Peter’s Vision in Acts 10: Is It About Dietary Law?”: https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/peters-vision-is-acts-10-about-dietary-law/ Adventist Biblical Research Institute – “Clean and Unclean Meats”: https://adventistbiblicalresearch.org/articles/clean-and-unclean-meats TheTorah.com – “Did God Originally Intend the World to Be Vegetarian?”: https://www.thetorah.com/article/did-god-originally-intend-the-world-to-be-vegetarian Focus on the Family – “Vegans, Vegetarians, and the Bible”: https://www.focusonthefamily.com/family-qa/vegans-vegetarians-and-the-bible/

Episode 219 examines Numbers 5:13–22 and the objection that the Sotah ritual is superstition. The host explores explanations including psychosomatic effects, the ritual’s role as a legal restraint protecting women from vigilante violence, and its theological connections pointing toward Christ’s cup of judgment. The episode argues the passage refines justice rather than endorsing magic. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI Roi, Micha. “The Law of the Sotah and the Cup of Wrath: Substantive and Adjective Law in the Hebrew Bible.” Revue Biblique 124, no. 2 (2017): 161–179. Mowczko, Marg. “Jealousy and Bitter Water (Numbers 5:11–31).” MargMowczko.com. https://margmowczko.com/bitter-water-numbers-511-31/ Roberts, Alastair. “The Cup of the Adulteress: Understanding the Jealousy Ritual of Numbers 5.” AlastairAdversaria.com, February 9, 2013. https://alastairadversaria.com/2013/02/09/the-cup-of-the-adulteress-understanding-the-jealousy-ritual-of-numbers-5/ “The Sotah Ritual: Permitting a Jealous Husband to Remain with His Wife.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-sotah-ritual-permitting-a-jealous-husband-to-remain-with-his-wife “Was the Sotah Meant to be Innocent?” The Lehrhaus. https://thelehrhaus.com/talmud-and-halakhah/was-the-sotah-meant-to-be-innocent/ Jersak, Brad. “Women on Trial (Numbers 5): A More Christlike Reading.” PTM.org. https://www.ptm.org/women-on-trial-numbers-5-a-more-christlike-reading-brad-jersak

Host Lance Smith examines whether the Bible supports capital punishment by unpacking Old Testament laws, the story of Cain, Jesus' actions in John 8, and New Testament teachings like Romans 13 and Genesis 9:6. The episode explains the difference between Israel’s theocracy (where civil death penalties applied) and the New Testament church (which emphasizes forgiveness), while noting that governments retain authority to punish wrongdoers. In the end, Smith argues the Bible is not contradictory but nuanced, balancing God’s justice and mercy and urging thoughtful Christian engagement on the issue. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/capital.html GotQuestions.org – “What does the Bible say about the death penalty / capital punishment?” https://www.gotquestions.org/death-penalty.html Charles W. Colson – “Why I Support Capital Punishment” (The Gospel Coalition) https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/why-i-support-capital-punishment/ John Piper interview – “Do You Believe in Capital Punishment?” (Desiring God) https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/do-you-believe-in-capital-punishment Greg Koukl – “The Bible and Capital Punishment” (Stand to Reason) https://www.str.org/w/the-bible-and-capital-punishment Matthew Arbo – “Why I Oppose Capital Punishment” (The Gospel Coalition) https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/why-i-oppose-capital-punishment/ United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – “The Gospel of Life and the Sentence of Death: Catholic Teaching on Capital Punishment” https://www.usccb.org/committees/pro-life-activities/gospel-life-and-sentence-death-catholic-teaching-capital-punishment Pope John Paul II – Evangelium Vitae (The Gospel of Life)

This episode tackles an apparent contradiction between Exodus 25:15 and Numbers 4:6 about whether the Ark of the Covenant’s poles were removed for transport. By examining the Hebrew verb, archaeological parallels (like Egyptian ritual chests), and later biblical references, the host shows the poles remained attached but were positioned for carrying, resolving the difficulty. The conclusion highlights the importance of careful reading of Scripture and the spiritual lesson that reverent obedience protects what is holy and keeps God’s presence ready to move with his people. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI Eichler, Raanan. “The Poles of the Ark and Tutankhamun’s Chest.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-poles-of-the-ark-and-tutankhamuns-chest Guzik, David. Enduring Word Bible Commentary on 1 Kings Chapter 8. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/1-kings-8/ “Don’t Remove the Poles.” Elkhorn Bible Church Blog. https://ebcelkhorn.com/dont-remove-the-poles “Terumah: The Ark and Its Poles.” Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest. https://www.jfedgmw.org/terumah-the-ark-and-its-poles/ “Ark of the Covenant in Egyptian Context.” Biblical Archaeology Society. https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/ark-of-the-covenant-in-egyptian-context/

Episode 216 examines whether Herod Antipas thought Jesus was John the Baptist raised from the dead, comparing Matthew and Mark (which record Herod's confident conclusion) with Luke (which highlights his puzzled, unsettled reaction). The episode argues the accounts are complementary: guilt and remorse explain Herod's fearful conclusion, while Luke records the confusion and inner turmoil before that conclusion settles. By reading the Gospels together, the host shows this is not a contradiction but a fuller psychological portrait of a guilty man, and offers a pastoral takeaway about guilt, forgiveness, and the harmony of eyewitness testimony. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/herod.html Veritas Domain blog, “Bible Contradiction? Did Herod think Jesus was John the Baptist?” by SLIMJIM: https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2016/03/26/bible-contradiction-did-herod-think-jesus-was-john-the-baptist/ Enduring Word Commentary on Matthew 14 and Mark 6 by David Guzik: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/matthew-14/ and https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-6/ Biblical Archaeology Society, “Herod Antipas in the Bible and Beyond”: https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/people-cultures-in-the-bible/people-in-the-bible/herod-antipas-in-the-bible-and-beyond/ BibleAuthenticity.com, “Did Herod Think Jesus Was John the Baptist?”: https://bibleauthenticity.com/did-herod-think-jesus-was-john-the-baptist/ ‘Was John the Baptist Raised from the Dead? The Origins of Mark 6:14–16’ by Michael Wojciechowski, Biblical Annals (2017): https://czasopisma.kul.pl/index.php/ba/article/download/4378/4575/14412

This episode unpacks why Numbers 4:3, Numbers 8:24, and Ezra 3:8 list different ages for Levitical service and shows they are not contradictions but reflect different roles and historical contexts. It explains that 25 marks apprenticeship in the wilderness, 30 denotes full responsibility for heavy tabernacle duties, and 20 reflects the settled temple-era and Davidic reforms—making the system coherent, wise, and situational. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI “Why Does Numbers 8:24 Specify a Starting Age for Levite Duties?” BibleHub Q&A. Available at: https://biblehub.com/q/Why_set_Levite_duty_age_in_Num_8_24.htm “Why Did God Restrict the Age That a Priest Could Serve (Numbers 8:24–26)?” GotQuestions.org. Available at: https://www.gotquestions.org/priest-age.html Miller, R. D. “What Is the Minimum Age of Service for Levites: 25 or 30?” Contradictions in the Bible (blog), 2014. Available at: http://contradictionsinthebible.com/minimum-age-service-levites-25-30/ Duncan, J. Ligon. “Lamps, Levites, and Retirement.” Reformed Theological Seminary, 2007 (audio/sermon article on Numbers 8). Available at: https://rts.edu/resources/lamps-levites-and-retirement/ NET Bible Study Notes on Ezra 3:8. Available at: https://netbible.org/bible/Ezra+3 Yap, Jason T. “The Purpose and Function of the Feast of Tabernacles in Ezra 3.” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 64, no. 2 (2021): 253–264. Available at: https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/files_JETS-PDFs_64_64-2_JETS_64.2_253-264_Yap.pdf