Reading the Bible faithfully requires more than recognizing the words on the page. It requires learning the world those words were written in. In this episode, we introduce a “Text in Context” approach to Scripture, showing why even shared language can hide meaning when we read through modern assumptions.

To illustrate, we step into Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and revisit one of the most quoted lines in English literature: “Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo?” Most people hear it as a question of location, but in Shakespeare’s world wherefore means “why.” Juliet is not asking where Romeo is. She is wrestling with why the one she loves bears the very name that makes their love forbidden. When that single word is heard in its proper setting, the scene deepens, the tragedy sharpens, and Shakespeare’s point finally lands.

That is the skill we are after. Context does not complicate meaning. It protects it. In the same way, biblical texts cannot be reduced to isolated phrases or modern instincts. We have to ask how words functioned in their time, what the original audience would have assumed, and how the surrounding passage guides the author’s intent. This episode lays the groundwork for reading Genesis, not as a modern scientific report, but as covenantal Scripture spoken into Israel’s world, for Israel’s formation, and for the Church’s instruction.

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This discussion explores my essay on the theological and practical dimensions of church unity as presented in the writings of the Apostle Paul. I argue that this harmony is a divine reality established by the Triune God rather than a human invention, necessitating active maintenance through humility, love, and adherence to truth. By analyzing specific passages from Ephesians, 1 Corinthians, Philippians, and Philemon, my essay illustrates how spiritual oneness bridges social, ethnic, and economic divides. The research I conducted emphasizes that diversity is essential to the collective body, using the metaphor of physical anatomy to show how distinct roles strengthen the whole. Ultimately, my work posits that the church's internal cohesion is a vital witness to the world, reflecting the relationship between Christ and the Father. This overview concludes that Pauline unity remains a foundational mandate for the health and mission of the modern religious community.

I have also included a slide deck to help you visualize the argument I am making.

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This exegesis explores the historical background, literary framework, and theological significance of the ninth chapter of Proverbs. The author explains that the book of Proverbs is an anthology of wisdom developed over centuries, specifically utilizing antithetical parallelism to contrast the invitations of “Lady Wisdom” and “Lady Folly.” By examining the structure and poetic devices of the text, the essay highlights how these personifications force a binary choice between life and death. The analysis further connects these Old Testament themes to New Testament teachings, suggesting that Christ serves as the ultimate embodiment of divine wisdom. Ultimately, the source argues that modern readers must apply these ancient lessons by ensuring their daily moral choices are motivated by a proper reverence for God.

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This episode analyzes the chiastic literary structure of John 3:1-15 to demonstrate how this specific arrangement highlights the necessity of spiritual rebirth. By framing the dialogue between Jesus and Nicodemus through symmetrical themes, the text identifies the transformative power of the Holy Spirit as the central theological focus. This organized structure serves as a vital bridge to the famous commentary in John 3:16-21, moving the reader from individual confusion to a universal understanding of salvation. The argument is that the transition from metaphorical dialogue to direct theological exposition clarifies the contrast between earthly ignorance and heavenly truth. And also shows how this text is about water baptism. Ultimately, this episode illustrates how the lifting up of the Son of Man acts as the pivot point for John’s broader message regarding faith and eternal life.

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Listen in to hear how I articulate my view of Original Sin without the need for biological descent from Adam.

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Part 2 of my review of John Walton's book. We are discussing propositions 7 - 9 and fielding some FAQ's at the end.

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Part 1 of our review of John Walton's book. We will be discussing propositions 1 - 6.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tollelegeministries.substack.com

In this series we will be doing an in depth review of John Walton's book.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tollelegeministries.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tollelegeministries.substack.com