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This is the full-length, unedited version of my reaction to The Life and Work of Emma Goldman. Previously made available to my patrons in a 54-minute edited form.

Hope you find it informative and helpful in understanding the unbiblical ideas that underpin the radical left and anarchist movements.

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Welcome to today’s between-the-seasons bonus episode, in which I explore the fascinating—and deeply challenging—findings of Stanley Milgram's famous Obedience to Authority experiments and consider what they reveal about human nature, authority, and morality from a biblical perspective.

This post was originally made available as a special post for those who follow me on Patreon. patreon.com/JeremyMcCandless

Milgram’s research highlights the unsettling reality of how easily people can obey authority figures, even to the point of causing harm to others. As Christians, these findings prompt us to reflect on humanity’s inherent moral weakness, the biblical doctrine of original sin, and the importance of standing firm in God’s truth when confronted with ethical dilemmas.

We’ll explore questions like:

• What do Milgram’s experiments reveal about the human heart?
• How does this align with the Bible’s teaching on original sin?
• How can Christians cultivate discernment and moral courage when pressured to conform?

Study Notes for Today’s Episode

Key Themes:

• The Nature of Obedience: Milgram’s research reveals humanity’s tendency to conform to authority, even when it conflicts with personal conscience.
• Original Sin: This aligns with the biblical teaching that human nature is inherently flawed (Romans 5:12; Jeremiah 17:9).
• Moral Responsibility: Scripture emphasizes individual accountability for actions (Romans 14:12; Genesis 3).
• Resisting Sinful Authority: Christians are called to obey God over human leaders when moral conflict arises (Acts 5:29).
• Practical Takeaways:
• Cultivate a Biblically Informed Conscience: Regular study of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16-17) and prayer help shape our moral compass.
• Rely on the Holy Spirit: God’s Spirit empowers us to resist sinful authority and stand firm (Galatians 5:16).
• Lead by Example: Just as participants in Milgram’s experiments were more likely to resist when others did, Christians are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16).

Reflection Questions:

• How does understanding the doctrine of original sin help us make sense of Milgram’s findings?
• Can you think of a time when you had to choose between following orders and doing what was right?
• How can you strengthen your moral courage in moments of ethical pressure?

Thank you for joining metoday! As always, let’s keep diving deeper into God’s Word and applying its truth to the challenges of our modern world.

Bibliography

Biblical References

Romans 5:12

Romans 7:15

Romans 8:13

Romans 13:1-7

Romans 14:12

Acts 5:29

Jeremiah 17:9

Genesis 3

Micah 6:8

2 Timothy 3:16-17

Galatians 5:16

Romans 2:14-15

Hebrews 3:13

1 Thessalonians 5:22

Luke 16:10

Other References

Milgram, Stanley. Obedience to Authority: An Experimental View. Harper & Row, 1974.

Augustine of Hippo. Confessions and The Ci

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In this final message from Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, we reflect on his closing benediction — a prayer that the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit would rest upon His people.

 Paul reminds us that what makes a church truly blessed is not its size or structure but its spirit — a community that loves deeply, lives peacefully, and extends grace freely.

 Join me as we explore what it means to live in harmony with one another so that the God of love and peace will be with us.

Themes:

•  The grace that transforms community
•  The love that unites believers
•  The fellowship that sustains the church
•  What it means to be a “God-blessed” church

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Paul’s critics said he was weak—but in Christ, weakness becomes the doorway to true strength. In this final section of 2 Corinthians, Paul challenges believers to examine themselves, to live with integrity, and to pursue restoration within the body of Christ. His message is not one of condemnation, but of edification—a call to be made whole, to stop doing evil, and to live for the truth.

Key Themes:

• The meaning of being “disqualified” in ministry
• Why self-examination is vital for believers
• The pastor’s heart behind correction and confrontation
• Strength through weakness: Christ’s power in us
• The purpose of all discipline—edification, not destruction

Reflection Verse:

“For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God.” — 2 Corinthians 13:4

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In this episode, we explore one of Paul’s most personal defenses of his ministry—and one of the clearest portraits of Christlike service in all of Scripture. Paul reminds the Corinthians that real ministry is not built on money, recognition, or reputation, but on sacrificial love. He was willing to work without pay, to serve without applause, and to give himself fully for the sake of others.

This passage challenges us to examine our motives for service:

Why do we do what we do?

How far are we willing to go in serving others for Christ’s sake?

Join us as we reflect on the heart of true Christian service—and the joy that comes from pouring out our lives for Him who poured out His for us.

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In this episode, Paul’s words come alive: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” Through this powerful passage, we explore what it really means to boast in our weaknesses — not because we enjoy pain, but because our limitations become the very place where God’s power is displayed.

Today we reflect on Paul’s “thorn in the flesh,” share stories from real life and ministry, and help us see that our struggles are not obstacles but opportunities — opportunities to experience the all-sufficient grace of God.

Key Themes:

Why God sometimes says “no” to our prayers for relief

How grace transforms weakness into strength

Learning to boast in infirmity instead of hiding it

Seeing trials as opportunities to experience divine power

Takeaway Quote:

“When you come to the end of yourself — that’s where you discover the beginning of His grace.”

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Episode Notes:

In this episode, we explore one of Paul’s most revealing confessions — that joy can exist even in hardship, and that weakness can become a vessel for divine strength. Drawing from 2 Corinthians 7:4–16 and Paul’s later words in chapter 12, we uncover the paradox of Christian service: that real joy comes not from being celebrated, but from surrendering.

Through Paul’s story, we see that true ministry isn’t measured by convenience, but by compassion — and that the power of Christ rests upon those who are willing to serve even when it costs them something.

Key Themes:

• Joy through weakness
• The paradox of Christian service
• God’s power displayed in humility
• Paul’s example of sacrificial ministry
• Learning to serve with gladness, not convenience

Takeaway:

Real service for Christ isn’t about how little we can give, but how far we’re willing to go. The joy of serving the Lord is found in weakness — because it’s there that His strength shines brightest.

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To listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

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Episode Notes Page

In this episode, we explore Paul’s heartfelt defense against false accusations and deceitful teachers who sought to undermine his ministry. Through his words, we see a deep pastoral concern — a “godly jealousy” for the spiritual purity of the Church. Paul reminds the Corinthians that behind every false apostle stands an even greater deceiver, Satan himself, who masquerades as an angel of light.

This passage challenges us to be discerning in whom we follow, to examine the motives of those who speak in Christ’s name, and to hold fast to the simplicity of the true Gospel.

Key Themes:

Godly jealousy and pastoral care

False apostles and spiritual deception

The purity of the Church as the Bride of Christ

The humility and integrity of authentic ministry

Reflection Questions:

How can we recognize false teaching in our own day?

What does “godly jealousy” look like in pastoral or personal life?

How does Paul’s example shape our view of ministry and money?

What safeguards can we build to protect the simplicity of our faith in Christ?

Further Reading:

1 Thessalonians 2:1–12 – Paul’s defense of his ministry

Acts 20:28–32 – Paul’s warning to the Ephesian elders

Matthew 7:15–20 – Jesus on false prophets

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To listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

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Episode Notes:

In this episode of The Bible Project Daily Podcast, we explore one of the most human — and most Christ-like — portraits of the Apostle Paul. Confronted by critics who accused him of weakness, Paul reveals the paradox at the heart of Christian leadership: strength under control, authority wrapped in humility.

Through a close reading of 2 Corinthians 10, we learn how Paul models the character of Christ — the One who could overturn tables and still handle the doves with care.

Key Themes:

·         The danger of misplaced criticism and comparison
·         How to confront opposition with grace and authority
·         The example of Christ as both meek and mighty
·         Learning to balance courage with compassion

Reflection:
In your own life, where do you need to develop a stronger backbone — and where do you need to soften your approach with gentleness?

Call to Action:
Share this episode with someone who leads others — in ministry, in family, or in work — and encourage them to find that holy balance of firmness and kindness.

Support the show

To listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|Patreon

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Episode Notes

Theme:

When we give to God’s work with joy, He multiplies the blessing — enriching us, helping others, and filling the world with thanksgiving.

Key Idea: 

True giving produces worship. Every act of generosity is a reflection of God’s own heart and leads others to glorify Him.

Key Verse:

 “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.” – 2 Corinthians 9:15

 Takeaway:

Giving is never just about money — it’s about participating in the work of God, who turns every seed we plant into a harvest of gratitude and praise.

Support the show

To listen to my monthly church history podcast, subscribe at; https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.com

For an ad-free version of my podcasts plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month whilst also helping keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere support me at;|Patreon

Support me to continue making great content for listeners everywhere.
https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com