Did you know the biblical authors used cultural references in their inspired writings? From Greek poets to Jewish folklore, the apostles Paul and Jude make some surprising references. Are they just using familiar stories to make a point? Or are they giving those stories some kind of authority? And what does it mean for how we use fiction, folklore, or pop culture in sermons and teaching today?

The Rev. Jacob Benson, pastor of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lovell, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to discuss cultural references in the Bible.

Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: [email protected].