The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 7:1 –"The Great Judging Debate: Balancing Discernment and Humility"

In episode 130 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith tackles the intriguing question of judgment in the Bible. As he delves into Matthew 7:1, he explores whether Scripture commands us to judge or refrain from judging others. This episode unravels the distinction between hypocritical and righteous judgment, emphasizing the importance of discernment, humility, and love. Discover how seemingly contradictory verses fit together, offering a cohesive message about living a life balanced in truth and compassion. Join Lance on this enlightening journey to discern the true path of righteous judgment as laid out by the Bible.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
Alisa Childers, “Biblical Judgment in a ‘Don’t Judge Me’ World,” CrossExamined.org: https://crossexamined.org/biblical-judgment-in-a-dont-judge-me-world/ 
Frank Turek, Answering the Call podcast: https://answeringthecall.simplecast.com/episodes/frank-turek-on-the-philosophical-6d5feac5 
Bible Project, “What Matthew 7:1–5 Means”: https://bibleproject.com/articles/what-matthew-71-5-judge-not-lest-ye-be-judged-means/ 
BibleRef.com, Matthew 7:1: https://www.bibleref.com/Matthew/7/Matthew-7-1.html 
Veritas Domain, “Quick Devotional from Matthew 7:1”: https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2021/10/07/quick-devotional-from-matthew-71-observation-from-the-greek/ 
Jiří Moskala, “Toward a Theology of Judgment”: https://www.andrews.edu/sem/inministry/uploads/2018syllabi/2018fallsyllabi/gsem530-articles/toward-a-theology-of-judgment.j.moskala.pdf 
Women in Apologetics, “Matthew 7:1 – A World Without Judgment?”: https://womeninapologetics.com/matthew-71-%EF%80%AD-a-world-without-judgement/ 
Skeptics Annotated Bible, Contradictions: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/material.html 
 

Sunday Series-Episode #4: Divine Whispers--Spiritual Encounters and Unexplainable Knowledge

Welcome back to the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, hosted by Lance Smith. In this episode, we delve into spiritual encounters that defy logic and explore the intriguing concept of special knowledge, as featured in J. Steve Miller's book, "Faith That's Not Blind." From miraculous gut feelings to angelic warnings, we reveal real-life stories that suggest a divine influence "tugging at the fabric of reality." With credible accounts from trusted individuals, these experiences challenge skeptics to rethink coincidences and embrace the possibility of supernatural interventions.
Join us as we unpack these compelling narratives and consider testimonies of spiritual awakenings, such as Edgar Mitchell's profound experience during the Apollo 14 mission. We also examine how these personal stories, documented by credible sources, can point to something greater, echoing the mysteries of the universe and possibly revealing divine breadcrumbs meant to guide us in our journey.
Don't miss the riveting tales and thought-provoking discussions that invite you to ponder the mysterious forces at play in our lives. As we prepare for the next cosmic blockbuster episode on the universe's beginnings, we encourage you to share your own experiences at BibleDifficultiesAndAnswers@gmail.com. Tune in for an episode that promises to enlighten and entertain.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
Miller, J. S. (2016). Faith That’s Not Blind: A Practical Guide to Evaluating Spiritual Beliefs. Wisdom Creek Press. Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/gTR0odd 
Nelson, K. (2011). The Spiritual Doorway in the Brain. Penguin.
Moody, R. (2010). Glimpses of Eternity. Guideposts.
Mitchell, E. (1996). The Way of the Explorer: An Apollo Astronaut’s Journey Through the Material and Mystical Worlds. Putnam.

Exodus 9:19-21 – Unlocking the Mystery of Egypt's Livestock in Exodus 9

In this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, we delve into a perplexing passage from Exodus 9:19-21. Host Lance Smith explores the apparent contradiction in the biblical narrative: if all Egyptian livestock perished in the fifth plague, how could there be animals to protect from the seventh plague's hailstorm? By examining biblical language, cultural context, and ancient Near Eastern customs, we uncover the nuances behind this mystery. Discover the interpretative journey that explains how remnants of livestock survived and what this means for understanding God's power and mercy amidst the plagues. Join us as we shed light on this scriptural enigma and its profound implications.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
The Big Book of Bible Difficulties (https://a.co/d/7shn4hI)
Guzik, David, “Exodus 9 – More Plagues Upon Egypt,” Enduring Word Bible Commentary, https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/exodus-9/ 
“Livestock or Deadstock?” Answers in Genesis, https://answersingenesis.org/contradictions-in-the-bible/livestock-or-deadstock/ 
“A Simple Reordering: Reconciling the Fifth and Seventh Plagues in Exodus 9,” Essential Church, https://essentialchurch.net/2018/01/19/a-simple-reordering-reconciling-the-fifth-and-seventh-plagues-in-exodus-9/ 
Alexander, Eric, “The Plagues of Egypt and Their Meaning,” Biblical Archaeology Society, https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-topics/exodus/exodus-in-the-bible-and-the-egyptian-plagues/  
“Thoughts on Evidence from 5th Plague in Exodus 9,” Veritas Domain, https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2022/04/11/thoughts-on-evidence-from-5th-plague-in-exodus-9/
Montgomery, John W., “The Plagues of Egypt: Lessons from the Exodus Narrative,” College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University Digital Commons, https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1747&context=sot_papers
Lyons, Eric, “Cattle Contradiction?” Apologetics Press, https://apologeticspress.org/cattle-contradiction-2302/ 

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 6:31–Balancing Faith and Family: The Bible's Take on Material Concerns

In this engaging episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith delves into a fascinating discussion addressing a key question from the Skeptic's Annotated Bible: Should Christians be worried about material possessions? Examining passages from Matthew 6 and 1 Timothy 5, Lance explores the apparent contradiction between trusting God and fulfilling responsibilities. Through a blend of biblical verses, scholarly insights, and real-life anecdotes, the episode provides a comprehensive understanding of how faith and provision are harmoniously integrated in Scripture.
Join Lance as he unpacks this intriguing debate with humor and depth, all the while offering practical advice on maintaining a balance between spiritual trust and familial duties. With references from both the Old and New Testaments, this podcast promises to offer refreshing insights for anyone grappling with similar spiritual dilemmas.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/material.html  (The Skeptics Annotated Bible)
https://www.gotquestions.org/materialism-Christian.html (GotQuestions.org, “How should a Christian view materialism?”)
https://www.gotquestions.org/worse-than-an-unbeliever.html (GotQuestions.org, “How is somebody who does not provide for his family worse than an unbeliever (1 Timothy 5:8)?”)
Odeleye, A. O. (2023). “The Christian and Materialism: Exegetical Study of Matthew 6:19-34.” International Journal of Culture and Religious Studies, 4(1), 1-10.
Koenig, H. G. (2021). “Religion, Spirituality, and Health: The Research and Clinical Implications.” Journal of Religion and Health, 60(5), 3089-3118.
Afolaranmi, A. O. (2016). “A Biblical Perspective on Wealth and Poverty.” Global Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, 4(8), 1-7.

Sunday Series-Episode 3: Unlocking Modern Miracles--From Hemingway to Wimber

Explore contemporary miracles and answered prayers in this compelling episode of Bible Difficulties and Answers. Host Lance Smith shares astonishing stories—from the unexpected healing of Ernest Hemingway, who was not a man of faith, to John Wimber, a rock musician turned Christian leader. We delve into how these divine encounters defy skepticism and transform lives.
Discover how Jonathan Goforth overcame linguistic challenges in China through prayer, sparking a significant revival. With reference to expert insights and scholarly research, the episode investigates the authenticity and frequency of modern miracles as documented in Miller's "Faith That's Not Blind." Dive into a narrative where faith meets tangible divine interventions, prompting listeners to ponder the power of prayer in contemporary settings. Join the discussion and reflect on your own experiences with the miraculous.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
Miller, J. S. (2016). Faith That’s Not Blind: A Practical Guide to Evaluating Spiritual Beliefs. Wisdom Creek Press. Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/gTR0odd 
Keener, C. (2011). Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts. Baker Academic.
Pew Research Center. (2008). U.S. Religious Landscape Survey.
Lewis, C.S. (1947). Miracles. Macmillan.
Earman, J. (2000). Hume’s Abject Failure: The Argument Against Miracles. Oxford University Press.
Hirshberg, C., & Barasch, M. I. (1995). Remarkable Recovery. Riverhead Books.
Mueller, G. (1895). The Diary of George Mueller. J. Nisbet & Co.
James, W. (1902). The Varieties of Religious Experience. Longmans, Green & Co.
Morning Star Ministries. (2015). “God’s Healing Minister: The Greatest Christian Life.” Available at: publications.morningstarministries.org 
Benge, J., & Benge, G. (2001). Jonathan Goforth: An Open Door in China. YWAM Publishing.
Goforth, R. (1937). Goforth of China. McClelland and Stewart.

Exodus 7:20-22 – "Moses' Bloody Miracle: Magicians' Water or Wizardry?"

In this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith delves into a perplexing biblical conundrum from Exodus 7:20-22. Moses and Aaron famously turn the Nile River into blood, but Egypt's magicians seemingly replicate the feat. How is it possible when all water appears to be affected? Lance explores various theories, from underground wells offering clean water to the possibility of magical illusions or demonic trickery. Join us as we unpack the clash between God's overwhelming power and human attempts at imitation. This episode highlights the limits of human cunning against divine authority, encouraging listeners to reflect on recognizing God's signs in their own lives.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
The Big Book of Bible Difficulties (https://a.co/d/7shn4hI)
Chabad.org - Rashi’s Commentary on Exodus (https://www.chabad.org/library/bible_cdo/aid/9868/showrashi/true#lt=primary)
Precept Austin - Exodus 7 Commentary (https://www.preceptaustin.org/exodus-7-commentary)
BibleHub.com - How Did Magicians Turn Water to Blood? (https://biblehub.com/q/how_did_magicians_turn_water_to_blood.htm)
GotQuestions.org - Pharaoh’s Magicians’ Miracles (https://www.gotquestions.org/Pharaohs-magicians-miracles.html)
TheTorah.com - Source Criticism: It’s in the Plague of Blood (https://www.thetorah.com/article/source-criticism-its-in-the-plague-of-blood)

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 6:13–Does God Tempt Us? Busting Bible Myths with Football Analogies

Join host Lance Smith as he delves into the complex question of whether God tempts us, weaving together football analogies and scriptural insights for a lively discussion. Discover how the Bible differentiates between testing and tempting, offering clarity on passages that seem to clash, like James 1:13 and Genesis 22:1. This episode explores the role of trials in our faith journey, emphasizing God's guidance and the importance of understanding context in Scripture. Tune in for a deep yet accessible dive into biblical mysteries, with references to trusted sources like GotQuestions.org and the C.S. Lewis Institute.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/tempted_by_god.html  (The Skeptics Annotated Bible)
https://www.bibleref.com/James/1/James-1-13.html 
https://www.gotquestions.org/God-tempt-us-to-sin.html 
https://www.gotquestions.org/lead-us-not-into-temptation.html 
https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/how-does-the-bible-guide-us-when-we-face-temptation.html 
https://www.bibleref.com/Matthew/6/Matthew-6-13.html 
https://www.cslewisinstitute.org/resources/temptation-and-testing/ 

Sunday Series-Episode 2--Deathbed Visions: A Glimpse Beyond the Veil

Join host Lance Smith in the second episode of the 20-week series on J. Steve Miller's Faith That's Not Blind as we delve into the intriguing phenomenon of deathbed experiences. These profound moments, often involving vivid visions and encounters with deceased loved ones or spiritual guides, challenge the boundaries of scientific understanding and spark profound theological questions.
In this episode, we explore stories, studies, and personal accounts that suggest these experiences might be more than mere hallucinations. From tales of peace and clarity at life's end to studies indicating consistent patterns across cultures, we investigate whether these visions offer a glimpse of an afterlife, a divine presence, or a profound spiritual reality that transcends our material existence.
Tune in as we consider insights from researchers, ponder the implications of these experiences, and question whether they could be keys unlocking deeper truths about life, death, and what lies beyond.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following:
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website
The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page
Email Address: bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com 
Miller, J. S. (2016). Faith That’s Not Blind: A Practical Guide to Evaluating Spiritual Beliefs. Wisdom Creek Press. Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/gTR0odd
Kerr, C. (2015). “Deathbed phenomena reported by patients in palliative care.” International Journal of Palliative Nursing, 21(3), 117–125.
Osis, K., & Haraldsson, E. (2012). At the Hour of Death: A New Look at Evidence for Life after Death. White Crow Books.
Muthumana, S. P., Kumari, M., et al. (2010–2011). “Deathbed Visions from India: A Study of Family Observations in Northern Kerala.” Omega, 62(2), 97–109.
Kinison, Bill, and Steve Delsohn. (1994). Brother Sam: The Short, Spectacular Life of Sam Kinison. William Morrow & Co.