Many people have asked, “What is the best translation of the Bible?” Some wonder if there are unreliable versions of the Bible that should be avoided. There are also questions swirling around about whether or not modern translations remove verses from the Bible. This episode of The Bible Study Podcast explores how translations work and how to be a better Bible student by understanding translation philosophy.

Wes McAdams and guest Kevin Burr, a Greek and New Testament professor at Harding University, discuss the differences between word-for-word and thought-for-thought translations. They emphasize that no single translation is "the best," but rather that each has strengths and weaknesses. They also explain why some translations exclude certain verses based on older, more reliable manuscripts. The conversation highlights how language changes over time, making updated translations necessary for clarity and accuracy.

Kevin Burr teaches Greek and New Testament at Harding University and previously served as a discipleship minister at King’s Crossing Church of Christ in Corpus Christi, Texas. He has nearly a decade of congregational ministry experience and now equips future ministers in biblical studies.

Resources Mentioned:

* Logos Bible Study Software (www.logos.com/radicallychristian)

* From the KJV to the NIV by Jack P. Lewis

* Seven Things I Wish Christians Knew About the Bible by Michael Bird

In this episode, Wes McAdams and Jared Saltz explore the significance of authorial intent in biblical interpretation. They discuss whether the meaning of a biblical passage is limited to what the human author originally intended or if the Holy Spirit inspired meanings beyond the author’s understanding. They also consider how modern readers can responsibly interpret Scripture without imposing personal biases.

The conversation highlights the balance between respecting an author's intent and recognizing the fuller meaning that is the result of divine inspiration. They examine scriptural examples where biblical authors, prophets, and apostles interpreted past writings in ways that pointed to Jesus. They emphasize that while context and historical understanding are crucial, Scripture’s ultimate meaning unfolds through Christ and the broader story of God’s covenant people.

Jared Saltz is the preacher at the Smoky Hill Church of Christ in Denver, Colorado. Previously, he was a bi-vocational minister and a Bible teacher at a Christian college. Jared has the unique ability to approach biblical studies from the perspective of an academic and a minister, making biblical interpretation accessible to everyday believers.

Resources Mentioned

* Logos Bible Software (https://www.logos.com/radicallychristian)

* How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart

Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

This episode, recorded live at the McDermott Road Men's Retreat, explores the concept of ambition, particularly as it relates to career, life goals, and contentment. The discussion centers on the tension between "selfish ambition" and Christian contentment, drawing insights especially from the book of Ecclesiastes.

Today's guest, Bob Tabor, shares personal stories highlighting his own experiences with professional success and spiritual health. He candidly reflects on his struggles with selfish ambition and its consequences, including burnout and spiritual drift. Ecclesiastes' themes, such as the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits (described by the Hebrew term "hevel"), contentment, and the value of simple pleasures, frame much of the conversation.

Bob Tabor has worked as a software developer, video creator, author, and entrepreneur. Through sky-rocketing successes and devastating setbacks, Bob has learned some incredibly valuable lessons. He graciously and transparently shares some of those lessons with us in today's episode.

Links and Resources:

* Logos Bible Study Software - logos.com/radicallychristian

* The Bible Project - bibleproject.com

* Keith Lancaster - keithlancaster.com

This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast continues the series on becoming a better Bible student. The conversation centers on how to ask better questions of Scripture and how cultural and generational trends affect biblical interpretation.

The discussion highlights the importance of moving beyond a "what's in it for me?" mindset when reading Scripture. Garrett Best encourages humility in reading Scripture and emphasizes group Bible study for broader perspectives. Key concepts include the value of questioning, wrestling with the text, and seeking transformation rather than simply acquiring knowledge.

Garrett Best, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Bible and Ministry and the Chair of the Department of Bible and Ministry at York University. Garrett has degrees from Freed-Hardeman University, Harding School of Theology (MDiv), and Asbury Theological Seminary (PhD Biblical Studies). He is passionate about helping students discover the depth and beauty of Scripture while fostering transformative learning experiences.

Links and Resources:

* Logos Bible Study Software (https://logos.com/radicallychristian)

* The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt (https://amzn.to/4gubWo3)

* Strange and Sacred Scripture by Matthew Schlimm (https://amzn.to/3WO6a9P)

Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast is part of our, “How to Be a Better Bible Student” series. Today’s episode addresses the issue of proof-texting. What is proof-texting is? Why is it problematic? And how can we all approach Scripture with greater humility and accuracy.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding Scripture within its original context—recognizing historical, cultural, and literary factors. The conversation also touches on the need for humility when interpreting and teaching the Bible. Examples like Philippians 4:13, Jeremiah 29:11, and Hebrews 10:25 highlight how verses are often misused. The episode encourages readers to move beyond shallow interpretations and engage deeply with the broader biblical narrative.

The guest, Boo Scott, preaches for the National Park Church of Christ in Hot Springs, Arkansas. With over a decade of ministry experience in youth and campus ministry, Boo brings a deep passion for preaching and teaching the Word of God. He emphasizes equipping others to be better Bible students and approaches ministry with humility and authenticity.

Links and Resources:

* Asking Better Questions of the Bible by Marty Solomon (https://amzn.to/4g9oKQs)

* The Bema podcast (https://www.bemadiscipleship.com)

* Logos Bible Study Software (extended free trial - https://logos.com/radicallychristian)

Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

In this episode, we continue our series, "How to Be a Better Bible Student" by discussing the importance of reading the Bible as a cohesive narrative rather than isolating it into disconnected parts. Wes McAdams and today's guest, Will Norrid, discuss the risk of reducing Scripture to a "recipe book" or a book of formulas, rather than engaging with its deeper, relational truths.

The conversation delves into understanding Scripture as God’s overarching story, including creation, disruption (fall), salvation, and ultimate restoration. It highlights the need for reading contextually—not just the immediate verses but understanding the broader canonical and historical settings. Will advocates for seeing Scripture as a narrative that invites believers to participate in God’s eternal mission, moving beyond simplistic applications to embrace its transformative power.

Will Norrid Will Norrid serves as the minister for the Lebanon church of Christ in Dresden, TN where he has worked for the last 21 years. In addition to preaching and teaching, he also serves in various roles in his rural community including writing a weekly spiritual life column that appears in print and online, speaking at community events, and volunteering with senior citizens groups. Will speaks and writes frequently on the intersection of faith and everyday experience, the value of reading in the spiritual life, and the importance of practicing faith in community.

Links and Resources:

* Logos Bible Study Software: https://logos.com/radicallychristian

* The Sin of Certainty: https://amzn.to/3PyidnC

Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams and his guest, Melvin Otey, tackle one of the most pressing challenges in studying Scripture: our motives and biases. They discuss how individual perspectives, shaped by culture, gender, and upbringing, influence our reading of the Bible. This episode confronts common pitfalls, such as using Scripture to validate preconceived notions or as ammunition in debates, and challenges listeners to approach God’s Word with humility and openness. The conversation explores the primary purpose of Bible study—seeking to know God and align one’s life with His will. Drawing on passages like Acts 17 and Romans 14, they emphasize humility in interpretation and the necessity of community in understanding Scripture. The episode highlights how differing perspectives can enrich our grasp of God’s message and how Christians can cultivate unity despite disagreements. Melvin Otey preaches for the Perry Hill Road Church of Christ in Montgomery, Alabama, and as a professor at Faulkner University’s law school. Brother Otey brings a unique perspective that combines legal reasoning and scriptural insight. His thoughtful, grace-filled approach to both ministry and education has made him a respected voice in the church.

Links and Resources:

* Logos Bible Software - Extended Free Trial (https://logos.com/radicallychristian)

* Melvin L. Otey on Facebook (https://facebook.com/melvinlotey)

* Perry Hill Road Church of Christ (https://www.perryhillchurch.org)

* VidAngel - Free Trial (https://vidangel.pxf.io/DKPWPy)

Note: Some links are affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Some days it is easy to be thankful, but other days it feels impossible. When life hurts and feels overwhelming, how can we possibly express gratitude, joy, or thanksgiving? Today we discuss the idea that gratitude is a spiritual discipline, not just a feeling?

This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study was recorded with a live audience. It includes real-time insights and reflections from the audience, making it a dynamic exploration of how gratitude can transform our spiritual lives.

We explore several passages from the book of Philippians. Drawing from Paul's example of being joyful and thankful even while imprisoned, we discuss how gratitude is more than a feeling—it's an intentional practice rooted in faith and trust in God's goodness.

You'll hear practical ideas for cultivating a mindset of thankfulness, regardless of your circumstances, and come away with a renewed sense of how gratitude can deepen your relationship with God and reflect his love to the world.

Links and Resources:

* Sponsor: Freed Hardeman University

* ThanksLiving Sermon Sermon Series

* Logos Bible Software - Extended Free Trial (https://logos.sjv.io/GmAdQk)

* VidAngel - Free Trial (https://vidangel.pxf.io/DKPWPy)

Note: Some links are affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Logos Bible Software is an incredibly powerful tool for Bible study, lesson preparation, and biblical research. On today’s episode of the Bible Study Podcast, Wes explores recent updates to Logos Bible Software, showing how it can simplify and enhance Bible study.

Listeners can expect a thorough walk-through of key features in Logos, like custom study layouts and the AI-powered search tool. Wes emphasizes the ways this technology can assist not only preachers but also Bible class teachers, small group leaders, and everyday Bible readers. He also discusses the integration of traditional print books with digital resources, making this episode a valuable resource for anyone curious about merging personal study methods with digital tools.

If you’re wondering if the Logos subscription is worth the cost, please listen to this episode and then check out the extended free trial that Logos is offering to our listeners.

Links and Resources:

* Logos Bible Software - Extended Free Trial (https://logos.sjv.io/GmAdQk)

* VidAngel - Free Trial (https://vidangel.pxf.io/DKPWPy)

Note: Some links are affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams sits down with Jeff Jenkins to discuss some of the most pressing and difficult questions surrounding grief. After Jeff’s journey of losing his wife, Laura, he has gained a deep and personal understanding of what it means to grieve and to help others on their own paths of sorrow. This episode invites listeners to explore their own relationships with grief, whether they’re currently walking through it or supporting someone who is.

The episode goes deeper than personal anecdotes, rooting its message in biblical teachings. Jeff discusses several powerful passages that shed light on how Christians can understand and process grief, clarifying the misconception that grief might be sinful or a lack of faith. Through Scriptures such as John 11 and 1 Thessalonians 4, the discussion draws out God’s compassion for our suffering and the importance of holding onto hope even in dark times. Listeners will hear about the balance between acknowledging real pain and maintaining a trust in God’s goodness, with practical encouragement to live in this tension of sorrow and hope.

Jeff Jenkins, a seasoned minister and close friend of Wes, brings a wealth of experience to this topic. After losing his wife, Jeff’s ministry has expanded to focus on grief counseling and support, and he now travels extensively, sharing both his story and biblical insights with churches across the country. He leads grief seminars and has written a book, Beyond the Valley of Death, which he distributes freely to those in need. Jeff’s commitment to using his journey to comfort others makes him an exceptional voice on this important subject, offering listeners both wisdom and comfort.

Links and Resources:

* The Jenkins Institute - Contact Jeff

* Widowhood Workshop (Dean Miller)

* Sponsor: Freed Hardeman University

* Logos Bible Software - Extended Free Trial (https://logos.sjv.io/GmAdQk)

* VidAngel - Free Trial (https://vidangel.pxf.io/DKPWPy)

Note: Some links are affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.