The Biblical Mind

In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson, president and founder of the Center for Hebraic Thought, explains the concept of Hebraic thought and its enduring relevance. Hosted by Mike Tolliver, the discussion explores how the biblical authors understood and conveyed ideas about freedom, justice, morality, and the nature of reality. Dr. Johnson defines Hebraic thought as the intellectual framework reflected in the Hebrew Bible and extended into the New Testament.

The conversation highlights the distinctiveness of Hebraic thought compared to Greek and modern Western philosophy. Dr. Johnson emphasizes that the biblical authors often prioritized restoration and community over punitive justice, demonstrating a wisdom-centered approach to ethics and relationships. The discussion also clarifies common misconceptions, distinguishing Hebraic thought from later Jewish philosophical traditions and situating it as a foundational framework for understanding scripture.

Dr. Johnson addresses how Hebraic thought can inform contemporary issues, from justice to scientific inquiry, by offering a conceptual foundation rooted in scripture. He also introduces his upcoming projects, including a book on Hebraic philosophy of science, aimed at bridging ancient biblical insights with modern intellectual challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:26 Understanding Hebraic Thought

04:04 The Distinction of Hebraic Thought

06:34 Hebraic Thought in Historical Context

08:06 Paul and the Greco-Roman Influence

09:55 Philosophical Misunderstandings of Hebraic Thought

12:05 Biblical Scholars and Hebraic Thought

14:51 Cross-Pollination of Disciplines

17:50 Hebraic Thought in Everyday Ethics

22:37 Cultural Forces Against Understanding

24:59 Community Engagement with Scripture

27:32 Exploring Hebraic Thought and Darwin

32:00 The Conceptual Worlds of Natural Selection

33:46 Reception of the Book and Future Implications

34:23 Exploring Hebraic Thought and Science

38:36 The Intersection of Logic, Math, and Science

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This episode was originally published on April 30, 2021. We thought it was worth a reissue for our newer listeners.

In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson interviews Dr. Brent Strawn to discuss his thought-provoking book, The Old Testament is Dying. Dr. Strawn argues that the Old Testament is increasingly neglected in many Christian circles, resulting in a loss of scriptural literacy and depth. Comparing the Old Testament to a language, he explains how fluency in its teachings requires immersion and consistent practice. Without this, the language of faith risks fading into irrelevance.

Dr. Strawn outlines the challenges posed by cultural and chronological distance from the biblical authors, making empathetic and accurate interpretation of scripture more difficult. He emphasizes the need for Christians to approach the Old Testament as authoritative scripture, not just as a historical or theological backdrop to the New Testament. Through engaging examples, he illustrates how neglecting the Old Testament diminishes a believer’s understanding of foundational concepts like justice, love, and God’s covenantal promises.

The conversation also offers practical solutions, including incorporating more Old Testament readings into worship, sermons, and Christian music. Dr. Strawn’s insights inspire a renewed commitment to rediscovering the Old Testament’s rich vocabulary and its vital role in shaping a vibrant and holistic faith. A must-listen for anyone passionate about scripture!

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Challenges of Biblical Interpretation

Brent’s book The Old Testament is Dying: A Diagnosis and Recommended Treatment

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This episode was originally published on April 2, 2021. We thought it was worth a reissue for our newer listeners.

In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson sits down with Dr. Joseph Dodson to explore the intersection of Greco-Roman philosophy, Stoicism, and Hebraic thought in shaping the New Testament. Dr. Dodson explains how the Bible didn’t emerge in a vacuum but within a dynamic cultural context influenced by Judaism and Greco-Roman ideas.

The discussion highlights Stoicism, the dominant philosophy of the first century, which emphasized overcoming passions, achieving contentment, and the transformative power of reason. Dr. Dodson demonstrates how Stoic principles overlap with Christian teachings, as seen in Paul’s writings and the Gospel of John, which incorporates philosophical concepts like the Logos. He also examines how biblical authors adapted, affirmed, and challenged these ideas to articulate a distinctly Hebraic worldview.

Dr. Dodson emphasizes the importance of studying texts like the Apocrypha and Greco-Roman writings to fully grasp the intellectual milieu of early Christianity. He explains how Jewish and Hellenistic ideas coexisted in a “roundabout,” influencing each other in profound ways.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hebraic and Greco-Roman Thought

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In this continuation of their conversation, Dr. Dru Johnson speaks with Rabbi Dr. Shai Held about the themes explored in his book, Judaism is About Love. The discussion delves into the complexities of love, law, and chosenness within Jewish thought, offering a profound perspective on the relationship between particularity and universalism.

Rabbi Held addresses the idea of divine chosenness, emphasizing that God’s love for Israel is unique but not exclusive. He critiques modern rejections of chosenness as caricatured and argues for a theology that balances grace with humility. Rabbi Held also explores the tension between loving one’s own and extending love universally. He describes Judaism’s “particularist universalism,” where love for one’s family and community naturally expands to encompass all humanity as bearers of God’s image.

The conversation turns to the ethics of love, including the challenges of enemy love and the discernment required to navigate complex relationships. Rabbi Held shares deeply personal stories that illustrate the real-life implications of these ideas, demonstrating how love can be both demanding and transformative.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

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In this special episode, Dr. Dru Johnson interviews Rabbi Dr. Shai Held, president and dean of the Hadar Institute, about his book, Judaism is About Love. The conversation explores the intricate relationship between love and law in Judaism, offering insights for both Jewish and Christian audiences.

Rabbi Held emphasizes that, in Judaism, law is not opposed to love but serves as its manifestation, challenging the common dichotomy in some Christian traditions. He highlights the centrality of love in Jewish rituals and commandments, portraying them as pathways to cultivate love for God and others. Through examples like the Torah’s command to love the stranger and the ritual practice of gratitude, Rabbi Held illustrates how Jewish thought integrates love into every aspect of life.

The episode also delves into Rabbi Held’s methodology, blending traditional Jewish interpretations with modern academic approaches. He discusses his book’s aim to present Jewish spirituality in an accessible yet deeply reflective way.

For those curious about Hebraic and Jewish thought, this episode provides a compelling perspective on the transformative power of love, the joy of being commanded, and the communal and spiritual dimensions of the Torah’s teachings.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rabbi Shai Held and His Work

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Welcome to the final installment of this podcast series on the past, present, and future of the Center for Hebraic Thought! In this episode, hosts Dru Johnson and Mike Tolliver turn their attention to you, the audience, asking for your thoughts, questions, and suggestions as the Center grows and evolves.

We explore exciting possibilities, including new video content for YouTube, packaged resources for community groups and classrooms, and fresh scholarship on topics like the philosophical elements of Moses and Plato, the significance of the Old Testament calendar, and even Hebraic perspectives on modern questions like tattoos.

Join us as we discuss our plans to equip learners, from churchgoers to Bible college students, with meaningful and accessible resources for a lifetime of engaging with Hebraic thought.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:01 More of What We Are Already Doing

04:16 Some New Things For The Center For Hebraic Thought Audience

04:53 More Resources For The Biblical Mind Audience

06:56 Questions We've Never Answered On The Show

08:27 How To Get Us These Questions

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In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson introduces Mike Tolliver, the new Executive Director of the Center for Hebraic Thought (CHT). Together, they discuss exciting developments for the Center following its recent relaunch as an independent 501(c)(3). Mike shares his academic background in theology and philosophy, highlighting his passion for Hebraic thought and its integration into biblical scholarship.

The episode outlines the formalization of the CHT’s two primary initiatives: the Center for Hebraic Thought, aimed at scholars, and The Biblical Mind, tailored for the broader church and theological students. Plans include commissioning new scholarly work, providing free, high-quality resources for churches and classrooms, and launching tightly packaged multimodal courses.

A key highlight is the introduction of a PhD scholarship fund for students in the humanities focusing on Hebraic thought. The Center also plans to expand its offerings to scholars, such as broader platforms for publishing and improved compensation. Additional goals include an annual conference and a redesigned, user-friendly website.

The episode concludes with an announcement of the CHT’s first capital campaign, designed for micro-donors to participate. Mike emphasizes strategy and collaboration as central to the Center’s future success, ensuring its ability to serve both academic and non-academic audiences effectively.

Chapters

00:27 Introduction

01:21 Mike Tolliver's Background

02:50 Discussing the Changes That Are Coming for the Center

05:40 The Mission as an Independent Non-Profit

06:58 The Immediate Changes

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In this episode, Dr. Dru Johnson, Director of the Center for Hebraic Thought (CHT), shares the journey of the Center, its recent challenges, and its exciting relaunch as an independent 501(c)(3). Dr. Johnson reflects on the CHT’s founding mission: exploring the unique thinking patterns of the biblical authors and their relevance today. He highlights the Center's initial support from the Philos Project and its integral role in bridging the Old and New Testaments through Hebraic thought.

The closure of King's College in spring 2023 forced a significant transition for the CHT. Dr. Johnson recounts the personal and professional disruptions, including relocating his family and accepting a visiting appointment at Hope College in Michigan, alongside a major project at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford.

The episode introduces Mike Tolliver, the CHT’s new Executive Director, who spearheaded the relaunch with his entrepreneurial and scholarly expertise. Dr. Johnson expresses optimism for the Center's future, hinting at exciting new initiatives aimed at expanding its impact.

Chapters

00:05 Introduction and the Mission of the CHT

02:44 Challenges from the Closure of King's College

04:30 Personal and Professional Adjustments

06:00 The Role of Mike Tolliver in Relaunching the CHT

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Quotes from this episode:

"We're doing a bit like what jazz musicians do. We immerse in the biblical story and we improvise on that biblical story, the Bible in our hand."

"Church is a conversation. Communities that are able to have conversations is really important. We can talk about anything. We can talk about the sermon together. We can talk about pressing issues facing our community, facing our neighborhood that we can get involved with."

In this episode:

— Introduction and Setting the Stage

— Conceptual Hurdles and the Need for Fresh Imagination

— Improvising on the Tradition: Learning from the Biblical Story

— Being Rooted in the Neighborhood: Leadership and the Role of Every Member

— The Challenges of Size: Can Large Churches Safely Improvise?

— Local Aesthetics and the Physical Space of Worship

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Byron Borger, owner of Hearts and Minds Bookstore speaks with Dru Johnson about literacy, theology, and the need for bookstores to cultivate the Christian imagination. 

—The decline in reading and literacy rates among Americans is a concern, particularly among younger generations.

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