In this episode: God is with us? Lessons from Joseph we delve into the biblical concept of God's presence, contrasting its portrayal in the Old and New Testaments. While the Old Testament often links God's presence with prosperity, as illustrated in the Book of Proverbs, the New Testament, exemplified by Jesus' life, suggests that divine presence doesn't guarantee worldly success. The discussion focuses on interpreting suffering and God's presence, particularly through the lens of Jesus' crucifixion and the Beatitudes. Additionally, it examines the story of Joseph in Genesis, highlighting that God's presence is emphasized during his hardships rather than his prosperous phases. The podcast also explores the significance of dreams in divine communication, drawing parallels from various historical and biblical contexts, including Joseph’s interpretation of dreams in prison and his subsequent rise to power in Egypt.

This series for season 4 are presented before a live audience at Heritage Christian University Chapel service and are covering the life of Joseph.  

To find out more or apply, go to our website at www.hcu.edu The host of this podcast is Edmon L. Gallagher, Ph.D. Professor of Christian Scripture at Heritage Christian University.    

About Dr. Gallagher:   

Dr. Gallagher’s research focuses on the reception of the Bible among ancient Jews and Christians. At HCU, he teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in Greek, Scripture, and theology. He serves as the associate minister at the Sherrod Ave. Church of Christ. He has been a campaign leader for HCU and he frequently teaches in the Philippines and Haiti. He and his wife, Jodi, have six children.    

Education:   

Ph.D. (2010), M.Phil. (2007), Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion M.A. (2002), B.A. (2001), Freed-Hardeman University    

Recent Books He's Written:

The Translation of the Seventy: History, Reception, and Contemporary Use of the Septuagint. Abilene, TX: ACU Press, 2021. The Christian Life: Chapters for Bible Teachers. Florence, AL: HCU Press, 2021. Jesus the Christ: Chapters for Bible Teachers. Florence, AL: HCU Press, 2021. The Sermon on the Mount: Explorations in Christian Practice. Cypress Bible Study Series. Florence, AL: HCU Press, 2021. The Book of Exodus: Explorations in Christian Theology. Cypress Bible Study Series. Florence, AL: HCU Press. 2020. (with John D. Meade) The Biblical Canon Lists from Early Christianity: Texts and Analysis. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2017.