In this episode, Matthew Wireman interviews Dr. Duane Garrett, a former professor of his and current professor at Southern Seminary in Old Testament, Hebrew, Old Testament exegesis, and hermeneutics. Dr. Garrett shares his story of his journey to faith and how he became an Old Testament professor. He addresses the misconception of the God of the Old Testament being wrathful while the God of the New Testament being gracious. He emphasizes that wrath is seen in the New Testament as well, and that both testaments must be kept in balance.

The conversation then delves into the complexities of Old Testament scripture in relation to modern Christian beliefs. Dr. Garrett points out that it is often easier to slide into heterodoxy when it comes to Old Testament studies due to a lack of hard limits when compared to New Testament studies. He then discusses the "Frankenstein Hypothesis", which discusses the documentary hypothesis and its problems. Dr. Garrett also explains that the Proverbs are general truths, and that although they are generally true, there may be exceptions to them.

The conversation then shifts to the two focuses in the Old Testament: the election of Israel and the way God has structured the world. Dr. Garrett explains that the election of Israel is focused on God's covenant with them and their mission to reconcile the world to God, while the wisdom literature focuses on living a good life in this world by following the rules of God that are built into creation.

Regarding the law, Dr. Garrett explains that the law was given to Israel as a pedagogue in order to keep them in line as much as possible until the coming of the Messiah. He further explains that the law is still canonical for New Testament believers and still teaches them, although there is a cultural gap between ancient Israel and modern Western countries.

The episode ends with a reminder to share and keep growing and going. This is a fascinating conversation for anyone interested in theology and the practicality of Old Testament scripture in modern Christian beliefs.

Thank you for listening! If you want to find out more about Matt and how you can get coached toward your better self, visit www.matthewwireman.com and check out his Instagram account @matt.wireman