The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 8:20–Was Jesus Really Homeless? Unpacking Biblical Clues

Welcome to episode 152 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, where we delve into the intriguing question: Was Jesus homeless? Investigating passages from Matthew 8:20, Luke 9:58, Mark 2:1, and Mark 2:15, we explore whether Jesus was a divine itinerant or had a place to call home.
Join host Lance Smith as he navigates the complexities of scripture, examining whether Jesus wandered the Galilean hills without a fixed abode or had a familiar dwelling in Capernaum. This episode examines how translations and interpretations from the New Living Translation and King James Version present two sides of this mystery.
Through biblical context and historical insights, we discuss how Jesus relied on the kindness of followers and supporters, living a life dedicated to his mission. Discover the compelling arguments on both sides of the debate and what it reveals about Jesus' ministry and lifestyle choices. Tune in for a thought-provoking theological detective journey through the ancient world.
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 
Skeptics Annotated Bible. https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/found.html 
Patheos, “Was Jesus Homeless? Yes, No, and Kind Of”: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/breathingspace/2022/12/was-jesus-homeless-yes-no-and-kind-of/ 
Biblical Archaeology Review, “The House of Peter: The Home of Jesus in Capernaum?”: https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-sites-places/biblical-archaeology-sites/the-house-of-peter-the-home-of-jesus-in-capernaum/ 
Center for Faith and Culture, “Was Jesus Rich or Poor—And Should We Care?”: https://cfc.sebts.edu/faith-and-economics/jesus-rich-poor-matter/ 
Ministry Matters, “Why Jesus Wasn’t Homeless (And Why It Matters)”: https://ministrymatters.com/2013-05-30_why_jesus_wasn_t_homeless_and_why_it_matters_/ 
Harrison House, “Debunking ‘Homeless Jesus’ & Other Myths”: https://harrisonhouse.com/blog/joseph-z-debunking-homeless-jesus-other-myths 

Sunday Series-Episode 11: Beyond the Horizon--Filling the God-shaped Vacuum

Welcome to Episode 11 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, where Lance Smith explores the concept of a "God-shaped vacuum" in our hearts that only divine connection can fulfill. Delve into the teachings of J. Steve Miller, as well as insights from Augustine of Hippo, Blaise Pascal, and C.S. Lewis on the intrinsic yearning for a higher power.
Join us on a journey through existential fits, as we examine stories of personal transformations and philosophical musings that suggest an innate spiritual need. Reflect on how these insights address the void that can only be filled by faith, while engaging in a thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of belief, reason, and existential hunger.
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 
Augustine of Hippo. (2008). Confessions (H. Chadwick, Trans.). Oxford University Press. (Original work published 397–400 CE)
Hitchens, P. (2010). The rage against God: How atheism led me to faith. Zondervan.
Kreeft, P. (n.d.). The argument from desire. Retrieved from https://www.peterkreeft.com/topics/desire.htm 
Lewis, C. S. (1952). Mere Christianity. Geoffrey Bles. 
Lewis, C. S. (1955). Surprised by Joy: The shape of my early life. Geoffrey Bles. 
Pascal, B. (1966). Pensées (A. J. Krailsheimer, Trans.). Penguin Books. (Original work published 1670) 
Tait, K. (1975). My father, Bertrand Russell. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

Exodus 21:22-23 – Unpacking The True Value of Unborn Lives

Welcome to episode 150 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast. Join host Lance Smith as he dives into the complexities of Exodus 21:22-23, questioning whether unborn children are valued less than adults in Biblical texts. With a focus on the New Living Translation, this episode explores ancient laws, Hebrew words, and the broader Biblical context to unravel the truth.
Smith examines how translations like the New Revised Standard Version and interpretations by scholars such as John MacArthur and Russell Fuller contribute to the ongoing debate about the personhood and value of unborn children. From fines for premature births to the concept of 'life for life,' listeners are encouraged to explore whether these ancient texts provide a pro-life affirmation or an unintended loophole.
Through a theological lens, uncover the layers behind what fines truly represented in ancient times and how justice was served to protect both mother and child. Tune in to reflect on these ancient judicial practices and how they resonate with today's perspectives on the right to life.
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 
Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI 
MacArthur, John. The MacArthur Study Bible. Thomas Nelson, 1997. Available at: https://a.co/d/0aWQrOv 
Fuller, Russell T. “Exodus 21:22-23: The Miscarriage Interpretation and the Personhood of the Fetus.” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 37, no. 2 (1994): 169–184. https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/files_JETS-PDFs_37_37-2_JETS_37-2_169-184_Fuller.pdf 
“Valuing the Life of the Unborn Child: A Bible Study of Exodus 21:22-25.” Lutherans for Life. https://lutheransforlife.org/article/valuing-the-life-of-the-unborn-child-a-bible-study-of-exodus-2122-25/ 
“The Misuse of Exodus 21:22-25 by Pro-Choice Advocates.” Desiring God. https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-misuse-of-exodus-21-22-25-by-pro-choice-advocates 
“What Does Exodus 21:22-23 Say About Abortion?” Got Questions. https://www.gotquestions.org/Exodus-21-22-23-abortion.html 

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 8:12 – Jewish Afterlife: Salvation or Judgment?

In this episode of Bible Difficulties and Answers, host Lance Smith delves into the complex question of Jewish fate in the afterlife. Centered around three seemingly contradictory biblical verses, the discussion covers a broad spectrum from Jewish historical beliefs to New Testament interpretations. Matthew 8:12, Matthew 1:21, and Romans 11:26 are put under the microscope, revealing diverse views and theological implications. Through an engaging exploration, listeners are guided through different Jewish perspectives, the evolving concept of the afterlife, and the ultimate question of salvation or doom.
Whether it's the Jewish development from Sheol to resurrection or the Christian view on salvation through Jesus, this episode aims to unravel the mysteries behind these biblical narratives, while posing thought-provoking questions about divine justice and mercy. Join us as we navigate this theological jungle and seek enlightenment on what truly awaits.
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 
Skeptics Annotated Bible. https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/found.html 
Out of the Depths: The Development of Jewish Views of the Afterlife in Second Temple Judaism. Goco, 2013.
Collins, John. “Death and Afterlife.” In The Biblical World, edited by John Barton, 357–75. New York: Routledge, 2002.
Fine, Steven. “Death, Burial, and Afterlife.” In Oxford Handbook of Daily Life in Roman Palestine, edited by Catherine Hezzer, 440–62. New York: Oxford University Press, 2010.
“Frank Turek Answers Eddie Tabash’s Question.” The Daily Hatch, December 23, 2014. https://thedailyhatch.org/2014/12/23/frank-turek-answers-eddie-tabashs-question-my-mother-was-a-survivor-of-the-holocaust-she-lived-a-terrible-life-and-she-was-offered-the-gospel-and-she-rejected-it-is-she-in-hell-right-no/
“Heaven and Hell in Jewish Tradition.” My Jewish Learning. https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/heaven-and-hell-in-jewish-tradition/
The HarperCollins Study Bible: Including Apocryphal Deuterocanonical Books. Edited by Harold Attridge et al. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 2006.

Sunday Series-Episode 10: Unraveling Worldviews: A Cozy Fit or Chilling Reality?

Welcome to the latest episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, hosted by Lance Smith. We embark on week 10 of our 20-week series, diving into the intriguing section, Existential Fit, from J. Steve Miller's 'Faith is Not Blind.' This episode examines whether belief in God enhances life's quality, presenting it as a choice between a worldview that fits like a custom jacket or one that leaves you exposed to the elements.
We explore philosophical insights from William James and studies like the National Study on Youth and Religion, suggesting that a theistic worldview might bring more satisfaction and happiness. Contrast this with an atheistic perspective, which offers a more desolate outlook, lacking purpose and meaning.
Join us as we analyze data, reflect on religious practices, and discuss the notion that life's purpose and morality might be inherently linked to a theistic belief. Engage with us through discussions and share your perspective on the existential fit argument. Don't miss it!
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 
Myers, D. G. (1992). The Pursuit of Happiness. William Morrow and Company.
Myers, D. G. (2000). The American Paradox. Yale University Press.
Smith, C., & Denton, M. L. (2005). Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers. Oxford University Press.
Rosenberg, A. (2011). The Atheist’s Guide to Reality. W. W. Norton & Company.
National Study on Youth and Religion: http://youthandreligion.nd.edu/ 

Exodus 20:24 – Unraveling the Dual Altar Mystery in Exodus

In this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith delves into a perplexing question from the book of Exodus. Listeners are guided through the apparent contradiction between God's instructions in Exodus 20, where an altar of earth is called for, and Exodus 27, which describes a more elaborate acacia wood altar. By exploring historical context, theological perspectives, and scholarly interpretations, this episode sheds light on whether these altars are distinct or united in purpose, drawing lessons for modern faith practices.
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 
Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI 
ESV Study Bible. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2008.
NIV Study Bible. Edited by Kenneth L. Barker et al. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011.
Zondervan Illustrated Bible Backgrounds Commentary: Old Testament, Volume 1: Genesis–Exodus. Edited by John H. Walton. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2009.
Newton, Brian. “An Altar of Earth: Exodus 20:22-26.” Published March 4, 2024. Available at: https://bcnewton.co/2024/03/04/an-altar-of-earth-exodus-2022-26/ 
Calvin, John. Commentaries on the Four Last Books of Moses Arranged in the Form of a Harmony. Translated by Charles William Bingham. Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library. Available at: https://www.ccel.org/c/calvin/comment3/comm_vol04/htm/iii.i.viii.htm 
“What Is the Spiritual Meaning to Exodus 20:24?” Never Thirsty. Available at: https://www.neverthirsty.org/bible-qa/qa-archives/question/what-is-the-spiritual-meaning-to-exodus-2024/ 
Sharp, Casey A. “Of ‘Homelands’ and Cults: Altars and the Development of Social Complexity in Iron Age Israel.” Master’s thesis, University of Georgia, 2012. Available at: https://getd.libs.uga.edu/pdfs/sharp_casey_a_201205_ma.pdf 
Kilchör, Benjamin. “The Direction of Dependence between the Laws of the Pentateuch: The Priority of the Covenant Code.” Tübingen: Universität Tübingen, 2023. Available at: https://publikationen.uni-tuebingen.de/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10900/146315/Kilchoer_008.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y 
Zevit, Ziony. “Which Altar Was the Right One in Ancient Israelite Religion?” Biblical Archaeology Review, May/June 2016. Available at: https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/ancient-cultures/ancient-israel/which-altar-was-the-right-one-in-ancient-israelite-religion/ 
“Contradictions in the Bible: Altar of Earth or of Acacia Wood?” Available at: https://contradictionsinthebible.com/altar-of-earth-or-of-acacia-wood/ 

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 8:10 – "Exploring Jesus' Omniscience: A Divine Puzzle"

In this intriguing episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith delves into a thought-provoking question from Matthew 8:10: Did Jesus know everything? Engaging with verses that present Jesus as both omniscient and seemingly limited in knowledge, Lance navigates through the complexities of the hypostatic union—Jesus Christ as both God and man.
Using the New Living Translation as a guide, this episode explores contrasting biblical passages, providing fresh analogies and insights from scholars like Dr. William Lane Craig. Discover how early theologians resolved these apparent contradictions and what it means for understanding Jesus' divine and human nature.
Join the conversation as Lance examines the implications of Jesus' omniscience and human limitations, providing a deeper understanding of the gospel's heart. Whether you're a seasoned theologian or a curious scripture fan, this episode promises to enlighten and inspire.
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 
Skeptics Annotated Bible. https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/found.html 
Craig, William Lane. “The Birth of God.” Available at: https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/popular-writings/jesus-of-nazareth/the-birth-of-god 
Bible Hub. “Was Jesus Omniscient?” Available at: https://biblehub.com/q/was_jesus_omniscient.htm 
Bible Hub. “The Omniscience of Christ.” Available at: https://biblehub.com/topical/t/the_omniscience_of_christ.htm 
The Gospel Coalition. “The Humanity of Christ.” Available at: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/the-humanity-of-christ/ 
A Clay Jar. “What Did Jesus Know?” Available at: https://aclayjar.net/2019/11/what-did-jesus-know/ 
The Bible for Normal People. “Did Jesus Know Everything?” Available at: https://thebiblefornormalpeople.com/did-jesus-know-everything/ 
The Gospel Coalition. “One Thing Jesus Didn’t Know.” Available at: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/one-thing-jesus-didnt-know/ 
The Reformed Classicalist. “What Did Jesus Know and When Did He Know It?” Available at: https://www.reformedclassicalist.com/home/what-did-jesus-know-and-when-did-he-know-it 

Sunday Series-Episode 9: Exploring the Cosmic Blueprint--A Deep Dive into Life's Complexities

Welcome to the latest episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, where your host Lance Smith guides you through week nine of a 20-week exploration series of J. Steve Miller's book, Faith That's Not Blind. This episode expands on the intricate designs of living creatures, delving into discussions on whether this complexity points to a cosmic engineer or simply the result of chance.
Join the engaging discussion featuring insights from biochemist Michael Behe and microbiologist Michael Denton. Behe introduces the concept of irreducible complexity, using the bacterial flagellum as an example, while Denton explores the marvels of birds' intricate wings. The conversation interrogates whether Darwinian mechanisms suffice to explain these biological wonders.
With references to various notable works, the episode invites listeners to examine their own views on the design argument and its persuasiveness. Don't miss the thought-provoking journey through the complexities of life and the universe, driven by the curiosity and insights that fuel this podcast series.
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 
Behe, M. J. (1996). Darwin’s Black Box. Free Press.
Denton, M. (1985). Evolution: A Theory in Crisis. Adler & Adler.
Dawkins, R. (1986). The Blind Watchmaker. Norton & Company.
Gould, S. J. (1997). “Darwinian Fundamentalism” and “Evolution: The Pleasures of Pluralism.” The New York Review of Books.
Evolution News article on the bacterial flagellum: http://www.evolutionnews.org/2011/03/michael_behe_hasnt_been_refute044801.html