Bible and Theology Matters: Insightful Conversations with Bible Scholars

40 Episodes
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By: Dr. Paul D. Weaver - DTS Professor and Biblical Scholar

The Bible and Theology Matters Podcast is a conversation with Biblical Scholars about all things Bible and Theology, including: challenging issues of Bible interpretation, important theological topics, essential Hermeneutical principles, Bible backgrounds and customs, Biblical ethics and worldview, apologetics, biblical archaeology, and much more. Dr. Paul D. Weaver, Professor and Biblical Scholar at Dallas Theological Seminary is the host.

159 - Why Michael Licona is Wrong about "Flexible Inerrancy"
Today at 4:20 AM

In this conversation, Dr. West and Dr. Weaver critically examine Michael Licona's views on biblical inerrancy, particularly his concept of 'flexible inerrancy.' They express concern over the implications of Licona's arguments for the integrity of scripture and the lack of pushback from the evangelical community. The discussion highlights the need for a robust dialogue on these theological issues and the role of evangelical institutions in addressing them.

- Michael Licona's book raises significant concerns about biblical inerrancy.
- Licona's concept of 'flexible inerrancy' is extremely problematic. 
-There is a lack of pushback from evangelical scholars a...


BTM 158 - Stockholm Syndrome Christianity - 2
Last Wednesday at 9:40 AM

In this conversation, Dr. John West discusses the alarming trend of Christian institutions compromising on biblical teachings, particularly regarding sexuality and marriage. He emphasizes the cultural pressures that lead to this decline and the role of leadership in maintaining doctrinal integrity. West calls for a return to faithfulness over success, urging Christians to be intentional in their beliefs and actions, especially in raising the next generation. He highlights the importance of discerning information sources and the need for proactive engagement in faith communities.

Many Christian colleges have compromised on biblical teachings.The problem goes way beyond just marriage...


BTM 157 - Stockholm Syndrome Christianity
06/04/2025

In this conversation, Paul Weaver interviews John West about his journey from academia to the Discovery Institute, discussing the concept of 'Stockholm Syndrome Christianity' and its implications for modern Christian leaders and institutions. West critiques the shift in evangelical institutions away from biblical inerrancy and highlights the historical context of modernism and fundamentalism. He emphasizes the need for a robust defense of biblical truth and the dangers of theological liberalism, particularly in light of contemporary figures like Andy Stanley and Mike Licona.

-John West shares his journey from Seattle Pacific University to the Discovery Institute.
-The concept...


BTM 156 - 9 Reasons for a Pre-Tribulational Rapture
05/22/2025

In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast, Dr. Paul Weaver discusses the concept of the pre-tribulational rapture, providing nine reasons for this belief based on 1st and 2nd Thessalonians. The episode also explores the distinction between the rapture and the second advent, the sequence of eschatological events, and the role of the Holy Spirit as the restrainer.

-What you really believe determines how you really behave. -The rapture is the very next event in God's timetable.
-We are to be eager in anticipating this event. -We do not grieve like those who have no...


BTM 155 - The Anti-Christ
05/15/2025

Who is the Antichrist? When will he appear? What will he do when he does appear—and what will be his ultimate fate? Dr. Weaver will answer these questions and more in this edition of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast.

In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast, Dr. Paul Weaver explores the identity, timing, actions, and ultimate fate of the Antichrist as described in biblical prophecy. Dr. Weaver discusses various titles attributed to the Antichrist, the events leading to his rise, and the horrific actions he will take during the tribulation period. The episode co...


BTM 154 - The Signs of the End of the Age - The Olivet Discourse
05/08/2025

In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast, Dr. Paul Weaver explores the signs of the end of the age and the return of Christ, focusing on the Olivet Discourse. He discusses the context of Jesus' teachings, the significance of the tribulation period, and the role of the Antichrist. The episode emphasizes the importance of stewardship and the final judgment, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of biblical prophecy regarding the end times.


BTM 153 - Answering the Critics of Christ - Part 2
05/01/2025

In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast, Dr. Robert Bowman discusses the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Oneness Pentecostals regarding Jesus Christ. He critiques their theological positions, emphasizing and emphasizes the orthodox teaching of Scripture regarding the person and work of Christ. The conversation also highlights the need for Christians to engage thoughtfully with these groups and to be well-versed in their own beliefs to effectively communicate the truth of the Gospel.


BTM 152 - Answering The Critics of Christ - Part1
04/24/2025

What do the Muslims, Unitarians, Progressive Christians, and skeptics believe about Jesus Christ and Christianity? How are we to respond to these critics? Dr. Bowman will answer these questions on this edition of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast.

In this episode, Dr. Rob Bowman delves into the criticisms of Christ from various groups, including skeptics, Muslims, progressive Christians, and Unitarians. They explore the beliefs of each group, the historical evidence supporting the deity of Christ, and how Christians can respond to these criticisms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the arguments of the critics and responding...


BTM 151 - Archaeology of Egypt
04/17/2025

Dr. Weaver records a podcast while in Egypt discussing three amazing archaeology discoveries made in Egypt. These include the Merneptah Stele, the Shishak Relief, and Papyrus 52 also known as the John Rylands Fragment.


BTM 150 - The Pauline Epistles - The Occasion and Chronology of Paul's Writings
04/03/2025

What do we know for certain about the Apostle Paul, and how are we to interpret the Pauline Epistles? In this episode, Dr. Weaver provides an introduction to the Apostle Paul, discusses the occasion of the Pauline Epistles, and situates the Epistles in the order and sequence in which they were written. Watch or listen as Dr. Weaver explains the progress of revelation as it unfolded.

To download the PowerPoint and Class Notes that Dr. Weaver used in this presentation follow this link: https://pauldweaver.com/articles


BTM 149 - The Incarnate Christ - Part 2
03/27/2025

Dr. Bowman returns to the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to continue our discussion about the Deity of Christ. He provides a helpful acronym - HANDS - to be reminded of areas to highlight in conversations with skeptics or seekers.

H - Honor
A - Attributes
N - Names
D - Deeds
S - Seated 

Dr. Bowman is the president of the Institute for Religious Research. He is also the author or co-author of fifteen books and numerous other published works on apologetics, Christology, the Trinity, and various religious movements. Dr. Bowman e...


BTM 148 The Incarnate Christ - Part 1
03/20/2025

Did Jesus ever claim to be God? Isn’t the Deity of Christ a later theological development? My guest, Dr. Robert Bowman will answer these questions and more on this edition of the Bible and Theology Matter podcast.

Dr. Bowman is the president of the Institute for Religious Research. He is also the author or co-author of fifteen books and numerous other published works on apologetics, Christology, the Trinity, and various religious movements. Dr. Bowman earned an M.A. from Fuller Theological Seminary and a Ph.D., from South Africa Theological Seminary. He has lectured at Biola University, Co...


BTM 147: Jesus of the Gospels - Part 2
03/13/2025

Who is the Jesus of History? Who is the Jesus of the Gospels? And, are they one in the same? Dr. Andreas Köstenberger returns to the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to continue our discussion about these issues and more.

Dr. Andreas J. Köstenberger is the founder of Biblical Foundations. He is the Theologian in Residence and Director of the Equipping Center at Fellowship Raleigh Church. He is a certified Christian leadership coach (CCLC), and he has authored, edited, and translated over sixty books on a variety of biblical topics. Dr. Köstenberger has also served on...


BTM 146 - Jesus of the Gospels - Part 1
03/13/2025

Who is the Jesus of History? Who is the Jesus of the Gospels? And, are they one in the same? Dr. Andreas Köstenberger will answer these questions and more. Dr. Andreas J. Köstenberger is the founder of Biblical Foundations. He is the Theologian in Residence and Director of the Equipping Center at Fellowship Raleigh Church. He is a certified Christian leadership coach (CCLC), and he has authored, edited, and translated over sixty books on a variety of biblical topics. Dr. Köstenberger has also served on the faculty of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Dr...


BTM 145 - Bad Theology Has Victims!
02/26/2025

Ideas Have Consequences - Bad Theology Has Victims! In this podcast, Dr. Weaver discusses the disaster at Princeton Theological Seminar! Princeton Theological Seminary is a case study that proves Bad Theology Has Victims! As we examine the crisis at Princeton Theological Seminary through the lens of faith , we see the real and severe consequences of theological positions. Join us for this discussion that demonstrates why sound doctrine matters, and why the doctrine of inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture matter.


BTM 144 - Is Dispensationalism New - Part 2
02/20/2025

Is Dispensationalism just an innovative idea from the mind of John Nelson Darby? Dr. James Fazio returns to the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to answer that question and more. 

In November, Dr. Fazio and I were at the Evangelical Theological Society, which is a gathering of evangelical professors and scholars from all over the world. Well over 2,000 are in attendance each year. Various scholarly research papers are presented, after which dialogue ensues. Dr. Fazio presented a paper that addressed the old accusation that Dispensationalism is new, novel, sometimes even called a theological innovation that was masterminded by J...


BTA 143 - Is Dispensationalism New?
02/13/2025

Is Dispensationalism new as some people claim? Dr. James Fazio will respond to this OLD accusation that is repeated ad nauseam.

Dr. Fazio is the Dean of Bible and Theology at Southern California Seminary. He also serves as Professor of Biblical Studies, specializing in hermeneutics and historical literature. He is the author and editor of several books including Forged from Reformation, Brethren and the Church, and Discovering Dispensationalism. He specialized in, and has done extensive research on, John Nelson Darby and the Plymouth Brethren. This makes him the perfect guest for this podcast episode. He has been on...


BTA 142 - Antisemitism and the Bible
02/06/2025

What does the Bible say about Antisemitism? And why is there so much antisemitism in the world today? Professor and Rabbi, Pikman and Dr. Weaver will discuss these questions and more on this edition of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast.


BTM 141 - Humble Discipleship - Faithful and Focused: Part 2
01/30/2025

What does it take to partner with the Spirit in raising up faithful multipliers. In this episode, Dr. Andrew Yates and Dr. Ken Horton discuss practical steps for investing into others, building up disciples and experiencing the joy that comes with faithfulness in ministry.


BTM 140 - Humble Discipleship - Faithful and Focused: Part 1
01/23/2025

In this episode of the Bible and Theology Matters, guest host, Dr. Andrew Yates interviews Dr. Ken Horton on his recently released book: Faithful and Focused. 

You can watch the interview at: YouTube.com/@BibleAndTheologyMatters

Website discussed in episode: : https://ministrycatalysts.com/resources/launching-multipliers/


BTM 139 - Dispensationalism: What is it? What is it not? Why is it important?
01/16/2025

Dispensationalism – What is it? What is it not? And, why is it important? Dr. Weaver answers these questions and many more on this eddition of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast.

In this episode, we are airing a presentation that Dr. Weaver gave on January 5th, 2025 at The Tabernacle in Danville, VA.


BTM 138 - Biblical Theology of Rest
01/09/2025

Is rest biblical, or do we have all of eternity to rest and we need to serve and work hard now because the days are evil? Dr. Stephen Cutchins, Provost of Southern Evangelical Seminary will answer these questions and more on this edition of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast.

Dr. Cutchins has been involved at Southern Evangelical Seminary in various roles for over 16 years, including on the Board of Trustees. He is the now the Executive Director of the newly launched Center for Innovative Training at SES. He is also a Teaching Pastor at First Bapt...


BTM 137 - Isaiah 7:14 - A Virgin Birth or Just a Young Woman?
12/23/2024

Was Mary, the mother of Jesus, truly a virgin? If so, was the virgin birth a literal fulfillment of Isaiah 7:14? Or was this the furthest thing from the mind of the Prophet Isaiah? Dr. Seth Postell, Academic Dean of Israel College of the Bible will be on today’s episode to discuss the meaning of this crucial text. Dr. Postell is the Academic Dean of Israel College of the Bible in Israel, an educational ministry of ONE FOR ISRAEL. Dr. Postell completed his PhD in Hebrew Bible under the mentorship of Dr. John Sailhamer. He also studied at Hebrew University in...


BTM 136 - The Historicity and Date of the Exodus - Part 2
12/19/2024

What does the archaeological record tell us about the date of the Exodus, and the Pharoah of the Exodus? Dr. Scott Stripling, Provost and Vice-President of Donor Relations at The Bible Seminary returns to the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to answer these questions and more.

Dr. Stripling is also the Director of Excavations for the Associates for Biblical Research at Ancient Shiloh in Israel. He is also the President of the Board of Directors of the Near East Archaeological Society, and holds a PhD in Archaeology and Biblical History. He is a contributor to the book “Five Vi...


BTM 135 - The Historicity and Date of the Exodus - with Dr. Scott Stripling
12/12/2024

Did the Hebrew people ever live in Egypt? Did the Exodus from Egypt ever actually occur? If it did occur, when did it occur, and who was the Pharoah at the time of the exodus? Dr. Scott Stripling, Archaeologist and Provost of The Bible Seminary will answer these questions and many more on this edition of the Bible and Theology Matters podcast.


BTM 134 - Dallas Theological Seminary - An Enduring Seminary
12/05/2024

What is the “secret sauce” that has caused Dallas Theological Seminary to become the largest non-denominational seminary in the world while other Seminaries are closing their doors, and still others are experiencing significant mission drift? In this episode Dr. Weaver shares an article that he wrote, and was published in Dallas Theological Seminary’s 100th anniversary edition of the DTS Voice Magazine. The article is entitled: A Desperate Need, A Great Vision, And An Enduring Seminary.


BTM 133 - The History and Legacy of Dallas Theological Seminary - Part 2
11/29/2024

In this episode, Dr. John Hannah continues to discuss the history and legacy of Dallas Theological Seminary. Dr. Hannah will share about the growth and unique contributions of DTS's second, third, fourth, and fifth presidents - Dr. John Walvoord, Dr. Don Campbell, Dr. Chuck Swindoll, and Dr. Mark Bailey.


BTM 132 - The History and Legacy of Dallas Theological Seminary
11/21/2024

Dr. John Hannah shares the story of the history and legacy of Dallas Theological Seminary. In this episode he discusses the life and lasting impact of Lewis Sperry Chafer, and the inception of Dallas Theological Seminary.


BTM 131 - Lewis Sperry Chafer: His Life and Legacy - with Dr. Reg Grant
11/14/2024

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Reg Grant reflects on the Life and Legacy of Dr. Lewis Sperry Chafer. Dr. Grant shares personal anecdotes about his early years, the discovery of hidden archives, and the profound impact of Chafer's life and work on theological education in general and Dallas Theological Seminary in particular. In this conversation, Dr. Grant reflects on the life and legacy of Dr. Chafer, emphasizing his faith, guidance, and the impact he had on his students and the seminary. The discussion covers Chafer's commitment to prayer, his vision for missions, and the challenges faced by Dallas Theological Seminary...


BTM 130 - The Judgement Seat of Christ Explained
11/07/2024

What is the Judgment Seat of Christ? When will it occur? Is it for believers, unbelievers, or both? Is it for salvation or for reward? These are just a few questions that Dr. Bing - Founder and President of Grace Life Ministries will address in this episode.


BTM 129 - One Body One Spirit - Disability and Community - Five Steps to Inclusion
10/31/2024

In this conversation, Dr. Paul Paul Pettit and Jason Epps discuss the themes of disability and community within the church, focusing on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, both physical and social. They emphasize the importance of building genuine friendships, advocating for inclusivity, and the need for a mindset shift in how churches approach disability. The discussion also highlights the five-step plan for fostering relationships with individuals with disabilities, aiming to create a more inclusive and understanding community.

To watch this interview, visit: www.YouTube.com/@BibleAndTheologyMatters

Take Aways
-Disability is often viewed through...


BTM 128 - The Fathers on the Future - Part 3
10/24/2024

What did the early church fathers believe about the Antichrist? What did they believe about the rapture and the timing of it? These questions and more will be answered in this third, of a three-part podcast series with Dr. Svigel. We continue to discuss the contents of his book Fathers on the Future: A 2nd Century Eschatology for the 21st Century Church.


BTM 127 - The Fathers on the Future - Part 2
10/17/2024

Dr. Svigel returns to the BTM podcast to discuss what the early church fathers (Apostolic Fathers) have to say about the End Times. We disuss the writings of Irenaeus, Shepherd of Hermas, Epistle of Barnabas, Papias, Justin Martyr, and the Didache have to say about the tribulation, Anti-Christ, judgment of the wicked, resurrection of the saints, and the coming 1,000 year reign of Christ on the earth. You won't want to miss this discussion. We also discuss when and how the church changed so drastically from its earliest teaching on the end times.


BTM 126 - The Fathers on the Future - Part 1
10/10/2024

Dr. Michael Svigel, Department Chair and Professor of Theological Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary returns to the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to discuss his soon to be released book Fathers on the Future: A 2nd Century Eschatology for the 21st Century Church. In it we begin to discuss what the Apostolic Fathers have to say about the end times. It is sure to be a fascinating discussion. This book is the byproduct of Dr. Svigel's 17 years of teaching on Eschatology as well as his man years teaching a course on the Apostolic Fathers!


BTM 125 - Ancient Evidence for Jesus - Part 2
10/03/2024

Dr. Michael Gleghorn, a professor at Grand Canyon University, returns to the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to continue our discussion on ancient evidence for the historical Jesus from non-biblical sources. In this episode we will discuss what the Jewish Talmud, the writings of Jewish historian Josephus Flavius, and Lucian, the Roman satyrist, has to say about the historical Jesus of Nazareth.


BTM 124 - Ancient Evidence for Jesus - Part 1
09/26/2024

Dr. Michael Gleghorn, professor at Grand Canyon University, discusses the evidence for Jesus from extra-biblical sources from the first two centuries. In this episode we will discuss the writings of the Roman Historian Tacitus and Pliny the Younger. These ancient sources mention the crucifixion of Jesus under Pontius Pilate, the outbreak of followers of Jesus Christ, and even elude to the resurrection of Jesus.


BTM 123 - The Life of the Apostle Paul - Part 2
09/19/2024

Dr. Benjamin Laird, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at Liberty University and co-author of the book 40 Questions about the Apostle Paul, returns to the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to discuss the life of the Apostle Paul. We will discuss the Apostle Paul's training under Gamaliel, Paul's missionary strategy, Paul's journey to Rome, the differences between Paul's first and second Roman imprisonment, the events that occur between the two, and Paul's martyrdom under Nero, prior to Nero's suicide in AD 68.


BTM 122 - The Life of the Apostle Paul - Part 1
09/12/2024

Dr. Benjamin Laird, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at Liberty University and co-author of the book 40 Questions about the Apostle Paul, joins the Bible and Theology Matters podcast to discuss the life of the Apostle Paul. What do we know for sure? What do we deduce from the biblical, and extra-biblical evidence? And, what is simply conjecture, regarding the life of the most influential theologian and writer of the 1st century? We will discuss this, and much more in this episode!


BTM 121 - Affirming Inerrancy - Four Faith Affirming Findings from the Field of Biblical Archaeology
07/25/2024

If the Bible is inspired and inerrant, and it is, one would expect archaeology to affirm it, and it does! In this episode, Dr. Weaver shares four incredible discoveries from the field of Biblical Archaeology that affirms our faith in the historicity and reliability of Scripture.


BTM 120 - Abandoning Inerrancy: Cautionary Tales and Tragic Consequences
07/18/2024

Dr. Weaver speaks on the tragic consequences that result from denying the inspiration and inerrancy of Scripture. He cites example after example of churches, denominations, and seminaries who have abandoned the orthodox teaching on inerrancy which ultimately leads to the abandonment of other orthodox teachings of Scripture, including the resurrection of Christ, the virgin birth, substitutionary atonement and much more!