16. Is America the Beast of Revelation?

16. Is America the Beast of Revelation?

In this episode, we explore the first beast of Revelation 13 and discuss why John’s vision is about more than a single future ruler. We argue that the beast symbolizes empire itself, showing how people and institutions can become tools of evil when corrupted by power, and how Satan tempts us to trust in states, armies, and earthly security rather than in Jesus Christ. We also consider how this warning applied to the Roman Empire and what it might have to say about America today.

15. Should Christians Obey the Mosaic Law?

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest tensions in the New Testament: Jesus says he fulfills the law, while Paul says Christ abolished it. We argue that Paul does not treat the Mosaic Law as binding legislation for the church, but as a source of wisdom, prophecy, and revelation that finds its fulfillment in Christ. What does obedience look like under the New Covenant, and what parts of the law still matter for Christians today?

14. How the Day of Atonement Preaches the Gospel

This episode is a sweeping conversation that traces the Day of Atonement through the grand story of Scripture, connecting it back to Eden and forward to the redemptive work of Christ. The episode explores the tabernacle as a symbolic meeting point of heaven and earth while drawing out how Levitical law shapes a deeper understanding of the church’s identity and calling today.

13. Why You Can't Understand Jesus Without Leviticus

In this episode, we walk through the book of Leviticus and explore the literary movement of the book, highlighting the coherence and brilliance of the law. We also discuss honor and shame culture in the ancient Near East and today, showing how it helps illuminate many of the practices and concerns in Leviticus. Finally, we consider how the book prepares the way for the atonement of Jesus and the New Testament vision of a community that fulfills the heart of the law.

12. Tongues, Prophecy, & Women Preachers

Resuming our series on the Holy Spirit and the Charismatic church, we walk through 1 Corinthians 14, verse by verse, taking time to deal with all the major issues. What is speaking in tongues for? What is prophecy? And why can't Charismatics settle on a definition? Why do women preach at our church? And why does Paul say that they can't speak at Christian gatherings?