Theology is Fun
What do you get when two theologians walk into a podcast? A lot more fun than you'd expect. Whether you're a lifelong student of Scripture or just curious about the deeper stuff, Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug will challenge your thinking, strengthen your faith, and prove once and for all that Theology is Fun.
How to Understand the Bible: 5 Common Misconceptions
You know the Bible stories—but do you know how they all connect?
From David and Goliath to the book of Revelation, it’s easy to read Scripture as individual stories, moral lessons, or passages about our own lives. But how does seeing the Bible as one unfolding story change the way we understand it?
In this episode, Dr. Ben is joined by guest host Patrick to explore five common misunderstandings about the Bible. They discuss why God is at the center of Scripture, how the covenants connect its story, and why the Old Testament offe...
4 Theologians Every Christian Should Know
How did a bishop, a former skeptic, a monk, and a bookworm help shape the way you understand God today?
You may have never read their books—or even heard their names—but Athanasius, Augustine, Martin Luther, and John Calvin helped shape conversations Christians still have about Jesus, sin, salvation, and Scripture. So, why should their stories matter to us?
In this episode, Dr. Ben is joined by guest host Patrick to explore four of his favorite theologians. They discuss Athanasius’s defense of Christ’s divinity, Augustine’s understanding of humanity’s fallen nature, Luther’s emp...
Why Did God Test Abraham? The Meaning of Isaac’s Sacrifice
Why did God ask Abraham to sacrifice Isaac—and how does this story point to Jesus?
God promised Abraham a son, and despite Abraham and Sarah’s old age, Isaac was born. Yet God then asked Abraham to offer that same son as a sacrifice. How could God’s promise continue through Isaac if Isaac died? And what gave Abraham the faith to obey?
In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben explore the story of Abraham and Isaac in Genesis 22. They explain Abraham’s belief that God could raise his son from the dead, discuss...
What Happens When We Take God’s Promises Into Our Own Hands?
Why did God bless Ishmael—and yet choose Isaac as the son of promise?
God promised Abraham a son, but as the years passed, Abraham and Sarah struggled to see how that promise could be fulfilled. Sarah gave her servant Hagar to Abraham, and Hagar gave birth to Ishmael. Yet God made clear that His covenant would continue through Isaac. What does that distinction tell us about faith and God’s promises?
In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben explore the story of Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, and Ishmael. They explain the difference between earthly bles...
Was Lot Really Righteous? Understanding His Story in Sodom and Gomorrah
Why does the Bible call Lot righteous—and how do we reconcile that with his troubling choices?
Lot lived in Sodom, a city known for its wickedness, and his own story includes decisions that are difficult to understand. Yet 2 Peter 2:7–8 calls him righteous and describes how the lawless deeds around him tormented his soul. What does that tell us about his faith?
In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben explore the story of Lot and explain why being counted righteous doesn’t mean someone always makes righteous choices. They consider what Scripture reveals about his li...
How Were People Saved in the Old Testament?
How were people saved before Jesus came to earth—and could Abraham actually be called a Christian?
Abraham believed God, and his faith was counted as righteousness. But how could he be saved through Jesus when Christ’s death and resurrection were still centuries away? Were Old Testament believers saved by keeping the law, offering sacrifices, or trusting in the Messiah God had promised?
In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben explore salvation in the Old Testament and explain why there has always been one way to be saved. They examine Abraham’s faith, God’s...
Melchizedek: A Man, an Angel, or Jesus?
Was Melchizedek a mysterious king and priest—or was he actually an appearance of Jesus before His birth?
Melchizedek appears briefly in Genesis 14, where he blesses Abraham and receives a tenth of the spoils. Yet centuries later, Psalm 110 and the book of Hebrews return to him to explain something essential about Jesus. Why does this seemingly minor figure matter so much?
In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben examine the different views of Melchizedek, including the idea that he was a preincarnate appearance of Christ. They look at his missing genealogy, his roles as bo...
You’ve Been Reading David and Goliath Wrong
Is David and Goliath really a story about facing the “giants” in your life?
It’s one of the most familiar stories in the Bible—and one of the most common applications is simple: Be like David. Have courage. Trust God. Grab your five smooth stones and go defeat your giant. But is that actually the point of 1 Samuel 17?
In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben take a closer look at David and Goliath and the larger biblical story surrounding this famous battle. They unpack the failure of Saul, the anointing of David, and why Davi...
Jesus's Body wasn't Broken
Was Jesus’ body actually “broken” for us?
It’s a phrase Christians often hear in worship songs, sermons, and during the Lord’s Supper: “His body was broken for you.” But is that actually what Scripture says?
In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben take a closer look at 1 Corinthians 11:24 and the biblical imagery behind Communion. They unpack an important distinction: Scripture describes the bread as broken, while Jesus says of His body, “This is My body, which is for you.” They also explore why John specifically emphasizes that none of Jesus’ bones were broken, connecting H...
What Is the Difference Between God’s Grace and Mercy?
What does it actually mean when the Bible says that God is gracious and merciful?
We often talk about God’s grace and mercy as things He gives us—but they aren’t simply things God does. They flow from who He is. In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben unpack what Scripture reveals about the grace, mercy, compassion, and patience of God—and why understanding these attributes changes the way we understand salvation.
They explore the difference between grace and mercy, common grace and saving grace, and why God never owes us either one. The...
What Does It Mean That God Is Holy?
What does it actually mean when the Bible says that God is holy?
We often describe holiness as being “set apart”—but God’s holiness goes much deeper than simply being different. In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben unpack what Scripture reveals about the holiness of God and why the angels surrounding His throne cry out, “Holy, holy, holy.”
They explore God’s majestic holiness, moral holiness, and gracious holiness—and how each helps us better understand who God is. They also discuss why holiness isn’t necessarily God’s “most important” attribute, but instead works perfec...
Can God Change His Mind? Understanding the Immutability of God
Does God change His mind?
Scripture tells us that God does not change. But what do we do with passages where God appears to change His mind or “relent”? In this episode, Dr. Ben and Pastor Steven unpack the doctrine of God’s immutability and why His unchanging nature is essential to understanding who He is.
Then, the conversation turns to passages like Jonah 3, where God relents from the judgment He announced against Nineveh after the people turn from their evil ways. They explore how these passages fit with Scripture’s clear teaching that God does not...
God Is Love—But Does He Love Everyone Equally?
Does God love everyone equally?
It’s one of the most common assumptions about the love of God—but is that actually what Scripture teaches? In this episode, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben unpack what the Bible means when it says, “God is love” and why understanding God’s love begins with God Himself, not our own definition of love.
Then, the conversation turns to the different ways Scripture describes God’s love—from His general love for creation to His covenant love for His people in Christ. They explore how God’s love relates to His holiness...
Why Did Jesus Call Himself the True Vine? (John 15 Explained)
What did Jesus mean when He said, "I am the true vine" (John 15)?
Before diving into one of Jesus' most profound "I Am" statements, Dr. Ben and Dr. Cori kick things off with a lively (and slightly controversial!) discussion about Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey. Is it a masterpiece or just "fantastically average"? Let us know what you think in the comments!
Then, the conversation turns to Scripture as they trace the biblical theme of the vine from Psalm 80, Isaiah 5, and Exodus 4 to John 15, revealing how Jesus fulfills Israel's calling as the True Vine and the...
What’s the Difference Between Catholics and Protestants? | Growing Up Surrounded by Catholicism
What's the real difference between Catholics and Protestants—and why do those differences matter?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Ben is joined by Pastor Jim Contreras to discuss the similarities and differences between Roman Catholicism and Protestant Christianity. Drawing from Pastor Jim's experience growing up surrounded by Catholicism in Venezuela, they explore both the cultural influence of the Catholic Church and the biblical distinctions that shape Protestant belief.
From baptism and salvation to Scripture, tradition, and the role of Jesus as our only mediator, they explain why these differences aren't merely denominational—they...
The Names of God (Part 2) Holy One, Adonai, Living God
What do names like Adonai, the Living God, and Father reveal about who God is—and how should they shape the way we worship?
In this episode of Theology is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben continue their series on the Names of God, exploring how God's names reveal His lordship, holiness, and relationship with His people. From Adonai and the Living God to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, they discuss how these names aren't merely titles—they are God's self-revelation, revealing His character, authority, and covenant faithfulness.
Along the way, they discuss:
Why Adon...The Names of God (Part 1): Yahweh, Elohim & El Shaddai
What do the names of God actually mean—and why do they matter?
In this episode of Theology is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben begin a new series exploring the Names of God found throughout Scripture. From Elohim and El Shaddai to Yahweh, they unpack how God reveals Himself through His names and what each one teaches us about His character, power, and covenant faithfulness.
Along the way, they discuss:
Why God names HimselfWhat God's names reveal about His natureWhat it really means to take God's name in vainThe significance of Elohim, El Sh...Why God Is the Center of Everything (And Why Nothing Else Satisfies)
Who is God, really? And why does understanding His nature matter?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben continue their series on the doctrine of God by exploring some of His most foundational attributes. They discuss what it means for God to be the Fountain of Living Waters, why He is completely self-sufficient, and how nothing in creation can add to or diminish His glory.
The conversation also examines the relationship between God's transcendence and His nearness, showing how the Creator of the universe is both infinitely above His creation...
Why God Doesn't Need Anything From Us
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben begin a new series on one of the most foundational subjects in Christian theology: the doctrine of God.
They explore who God is in Himself, why theology must begin with God rather than man, and what it means that God is eternal, self-existent, and completely independent of creation. Along the way, they discuss God's aseity, His infinite perfection, and why understanding God's nature transforms the way we think about worship, salvation, and the Christian life.
Together they explore:
Why theology must begin...Can Someone Be Saved Without a Bible?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben continue their discussion on how God reveals Himself by turning from general revelation to special revelation—God's direct self-disclosure through Scripture.
They explore why creation and conscience reveal God's existence but cannot save, why the gospel is necessary for salvation, and why Christians believe the Bible is God's inspired, authoritative, and trustworthy Word.
Along the way, they discuss inspiration, inerrancy, biblical authority, manuscript reliability, and why God's Word continues to transform lives today.
Together they explore:
The difference between general re...How Can We Know God Exists? (Part 2)
Did faith come first, or does the evidence point us there?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben continue their discussion on one of life's biggest questions: Does God exist?
Responding to questions and criticism from a previous episode, they explore whether belief in God is merely a matter of presupposition or whether there are compelling reasons to conclude that God exists. Along the way, they discuss creation, human consciousness, morality, faith, reason, and the limits of scientific explanations for origins.
Together they explore:
Whether every worldview...How Can We Know God Exists?
How can we know that God exists? Is belief in God reasonable? What do creation, conscience, and Scripture reveal about the reality of God?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben begin a new journey through systematic theology by tackling one of the most fundamental questions of the Christian faith: How can we know God exists?
Together, they explore the biblical doctrine of general revelation, discussing how God reveals Himself through creation and the human conscience. They also explain the difference between systematic theology and biblical theology, examine key passages...
Where was the Holy Spirit in the Old Testament?
What did John mean when he wrote, “the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified” (John 7:39)? Did the Holy Spirit not exist in the Old Testament? Were believers regenerated before Pentecost?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben dive into one of the most misunderstood passages about the Holy Spirit. Together they explore:
The Holy Spirit’s role in the Old TestamentWhat actually changed at PentecostThe difference between the Old and New CovenantsWhether Old Testament believers had the SpiritWhy Jesus had to be glorified before the Spirit was “g...Psalm 23 Explained: From Ireland
Welcome to a special Ireland edition of Theology Is Fun! 🇮🇪
In this episode, Dr. Cori and Dr. Ben sit down in the Irish countryside to unpack one of the most beloved passages in all of Scripture: Psalm 23.
What does “The Lord is my shepherd” really mean?
Was Psalm 23 written for peaceful moments… or seasons of suffering?
And what does it mean to walk through “the valley of the shadow of death” without fear?
Surrounded by sheep, rain, green pastures, and an ancient Irish castle, we dive deep into:
The true context...Should Christians Trust AI?
What should Christians think about AI? Can tools like ChatGPT actually help believers, or are there spiritual dangers we need to take seriously?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, we explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, theology, Scripture, wisdom, and Christian discipleship. We talk about whether AI is morally neutral, how believers should use technology wisely, and why AI should never replace God’s Word, biblical meditation, or the work of the Holy Spirit.
We also discuss:
Can AI replace Bible study?Should pastors and teachers use AI?Is AI biased?How do Ch...Why Jesus Called Himself the Light of the World
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Corey and Ben explore one of Jesus’ most powerful “I AM” statements: “I am the Light of the World.”
What did Jesus really mean? Why does the Bible connect light with life, truth, holiness, salvation, and judgment? And why does darkness become such a dominant theme from Genesis to Revelation?
Together we trace the theme of light and darkness through the entire storyline of Scripture — from “Let there be light” in Genesis, to the plagues of Egypt, the Day of the Lord, the prophets, the coming of Christ, the darkness at...
The Problem With Modern Worship Songs
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, we dive into a question that sparks a lot of conversation: why does so much modern worship music feel soft compared to the worship we see in Scripture?
From “Warmie Jesus” theology to the powerful Song of Moses in Exodus 15, we explore how the Bible presents God not only as loving, gracious, and merciful—but also as a divine warrior who fights for His people, judges evil, and conquers His enemies.
Why don’t churches sing more about God’s justice, wrath, and holiness? Why do older hymns often feel...
How Do We Know the Bible Is True? (More Big Questions from Kids)
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug continue answering some of the best theological questions submitted by kids—and once again, the questions are deeper than you might expect.
The discussion explores:
How we know the Bible is true and why Scripture is trustworthyWhat inspiration, inerrancy, and biblical authority actually meanWhether red-letter Bibles can sometimes be misleadingIf we’ll be able to fly in heaven—and what our glorified bodies might be likeWhat age we’ll be in the new heavens and new earthWhether scientists ever found Jesus’ cross and why re...Does God Love Satan? (And More Big Questions from Kids)
Does God Love Satan? (And More Questions from Kids)
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug take on a rapid-fire lineup of theological questions—straight from kids—and discover just how deep those “simple” questions really go.
The discussion explores:
Who was really ruling the world when Jesus died—and how God’s sovereignty works alongside Satan’s limited authorityWhy God allowed the fall, and how even sin and suffering ultimately serve His greater purposeWhether God loves Satan—and the difference between general and redeeming loveWhat really happened in the...Did Jesus Really Descend Into Hell? (Apostles’ Creed Explained)
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben tackle one of the most debated and mysterious phrases in Christian theology: the line in the Apostles’ Creed that says “He descended into hell.” What does that statement actually mean—and is it even biblical?
Recorded during Easter weekend, Corey and Ben explore the question of what happened between Good Friday and Easter morning. While Scripture clearly tells us that Jesus died, was buried, and rose again on the third day, Christians throughout history have wrestled with what Jesus was doing during those three days.
As...
The True Meaning of Palm Sunday
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben turn their attention to Holy Week and the powerful meaning behind Palm Sunday. While many people associate Palm Sunday with palm branches and children’s processions, the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem is actually a profound theological moment that sets the stage for everything that follows in Holy Week.
As they walk through the biblical account, Corey and Ben explore why all four Gospel writers highlight this event and what it reveals about Jesus’ identity. Palm Sunday isn’t simply a symbolic celebration—it is a pub...
Is the Secret Rapture Even in the Bible?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben continue their discussion of Matthew 24 and Jesus’ teaching on the end times. After celebrating their 50th episode (and a memorable gift from Mama Lois), the conversation turns to one of the most debated questions in Christian theology: What did Jesus actually mean when He said “one will be taken and one left”?
Many Christians have heard this passage used to describe a secret rapture, but is that what Jesus intended? By walking carefully through the text, Corey and Ben examine the context of Jesus’ words and comp...
Is the Iran War a Sign of the End Times?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben tackle a question that resurfaces every time there’s global conflict: Is this war a sign of the end times?
What begins with lighthearted jokes about iPads, “Megadesk,” and the temptation to sound authoritative with a screen quickly turns into a serious and needed conversation about how Christians should think about current events—especially wars in the Middle East—in light of Scripture. Instead of chasing headlines or popular predictions, they go straight to Matthew 24 to examine what Jesus actually said about wars, tribulation, and His return...
The ‘House of God’ Doesn’t Mean What Most Christians Think
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben tackle a question many Christians have heard for years: Is the church building really the “house of God”?
What begins with lighthearted jokes about church dress codes, altars, and Charlton Heston’s portrayal of Moses quickly turns into a rich theological conversation about the tabernacle, the temple, and how all of it ultimately points to Jesus Christ.
Together they explore:
Why do many Christians still use Old Covenant language when talking about church buildingsHow the tabernacle and temple functioned as types and shadow...Are There Multiple Ways to God?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Ben is joined by special guest Pastor Stephen Stayton to explore Jesus’ powerful statement in John 14: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
What begins with jokes about mansions in heaven, Cowboys fans, and wedding customs in the ancient world quickly turns into a deep theological conversation about salvation, the uniqueness of Christ, and why Jesus alone can reconcile sinners to God.
Together they unpack:
What Jesus meant when He said “I am the way, the trut...Why Jesus Called Himself the Bread of Life
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben explore Jesus’ powerful statement in John 6: “I am the bread of life.”
What begins with jokes about cereal, breadsticks, and wilderness diets quickly turns into a deep theological discussion tracing this claim all the way back to Genesis, the Garden of Eden, the Exodus narrative, and the manna in the wilderness.
Together they unpack:
Why hunger exists in the biblical storylineHow Adam’s fall changed humanity’s relationship to provision and creationWhy the Exodus is a type pointing forward to ChristWhat the manna in E...The Good Shepherd Claim Almost Got Jesus Killed
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben tackle one of the most misunderstood—and dangerous—statements Jesus ever made: “I am the Good Shepherd.”
Most Christians hear “Good Shepherd” and think comfort, care, and tenderness. But in John 10, Jesus’ audience heard something very different. His claim sparked division, accusations of demon possession, and ultimately an attempt to stone Him.
Why?
In this episode, we show how Jesus’ “Good Shepherd” claim is rooted deeply in the Old Testament, especially Ezekiel 34 and 2 Samuel 5, where “shepherd” is not a sentimental image—but a royal and divine tit...
The Armor of God
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey and Dr. Ben tackle one of the most misunderstood passages in the Bible: the Armor of God (Ephesians 6). Is Paul describing a Roman soldier—or is he doing something far deeper?
We show how the “armor” language is rooted in the Old Testament, especially Isaiah (Isaiah 11, 52, 59), and how the armor ultimately points to Christ as the Divine Warrior King. This isn’t about hype or “running amok” in spiritual warfare—it’s about standing firm in what Jesus has already accomplished: His righteousness, His salvation, and the gospel of peace.
...
What Does the Bible Say about Women in Church Leadership?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Ben and Dr. Corey continue the conversation on women in the church—not simply asking what women can’t do, but clarifying what Scripture teaches about the essential, God-given roles women should fulfill in the life and leadership of the local church.
Building from the biblical distinction between the priesthood of all believers and the offices of the church, they explain why the New Testament consistently describes two church offices—elder/pastor/overseer and deacon—and why those categories matter for understanding leadership, authority, and responsibility. The conversation walks through...
Can Women be Pastors?
Can women be pastors—and how should Christians think biblically about leadership in the church?
In this episode of Theology Is Fun, Dr. Corey Abney and Dr. Ben Skaug begin a thoughtful, Scripture-driven conversation on one of the most debated issues in the modern church: women serving as pastors and elders.
Rather than reacting to cultural pressure or internet arguments, the discussion carefully defines key theological frameworks and traces the issue back to Scripture, creation, and the New Testament’s understanding of church office and authority.
The conversation explores:
The difference between egal...