In this podcast episode, we read Genesis chapter 28 from the Common English Bible.  A thorough investigation of the Bible's language and context reveals that God stands opposed to racism and sexism, as well as the violence that often results from prejudice.

In this podcast episode, we read Genesis 27:1-45 from the International Standard Version of the Bible.  In this story, Jacob receives a blessing intended for his older brother Esau.  We also examine the ancient cultural viewpoint that hairiness and "manliness" are prerequisites for leadership.

In this podcast episode, we read Genesis 26:1-11 from the International Standard Version of the Bible.  In this story, Isaac fails to learn from his father Abraham's mistakes.  Acting on fear and false assumptions, he relates to Abimelech and the Philistines in a manner that causes strife and distrust.  Similarly, throughout church history, fear and false assumptions have led to the oppressive treatment of women and indigenous peoples.

In this podcast episode, we examine a common misinterpretation of God's prophecy to Rebekah, found in Genesis 25:23.  We also confront John Calvin's view of women, and his belief that God arbitrarily chooses some people for heaven and others for hell.

In this podcast episode, we read Genesis 25:27-34 from the Common English Bible.  In this story, Esau sells his birthright to his younger brother Jacob.  Were patriarchal customs like the inheritance rights of first born sons "God-ordained," or are they an example of fallen human culture?

In this podcast episode, we read Genesis 25:27-34 from the Common English Bible.  In this story, Esau sells his birthright to his younger brother Jacob.  Were patriarchal customs like the inheritance rights of first born sons "God-ordained," or are they an example of fallen human culture?

In today's podcast episode, we read Genesis 25:19-26 from the Common English Bible.  Isaac's wife Rebekah goes directly to God with concerns about her pregnancy.  God answers her directly, and gives her a prophetic message about the future relationship between the descendants of her two sons.  This passage, and many others found in the New Testament, directly contradict the false teaching that men are the prophets, priests and kings of their households.

In this podcast episode, we read Genesis chapter 24 from the New English Translation of the Bible.  In this passage, Rebekah is chosen to be Isaac's wife.  We also challenge patriarchal traditions related to bridal veils and head coverings.