The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 8:28–Decoding Gospel Contradictions: The Demon-Possessed Men Mystery

Welcome to Episode 155 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast! Join host Lance Smith as he delves into a puzzling gospel narrative that leaves skeptics questioning: how many men were possessed by demons in Matthew 8:28? Matthew's account mentions two demon-possessed men, while Mark and Luke each report only one. Is this a contradiction or just different perspectives on the same event? Lance explores this intriguing topic, examining why these differences exist and what they signify.
Through the eerie setting of the Gadarenes and the dramatic scene involving a herd of pigs, this episode provides insights into the different ways the Gospels convey the story of Jesus's encounter with the demoniacs. Discover how cultural contexts and audience expectations shaped these accounts. Whether you're a scripture enthusiast or a curious skeptic, this episode promises a captivating exploration of biblical narratives.
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 
Zondervan’s Pictorial Bible Dictionary: https://a.co/d/aEyRa7R 
“Demons and Pigs (Matthew 8:28-34).” Bible.org. https://bible.org/seriespage/11-demons-and-pigs-matthew-828-34 
“Why does Matthew mention two demoniacs when Mark and Luke mention one?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/one-two-demoniacs.html 
“Were There One or Two Men Healed?” Patterns of Truth. https://patternsoftruth.org/were-there-one-or-two-men-healed/ 
Davenport, Gary. “How Many Demoniacs Were There?” GaryDavenport.org, September 14, 2023. https://garydavenport.org/2023/09/14/12439/ 
“Why Matthew Said Two Men Were Possessed with Demons at the Country of the Gadarenes.” Veritas Domain, April 21, 2020. https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2020/04/21/why-matthew-said-two-men-were-possessed-with-demons-at-the-country-of-the-gadarenes/ 
“Who Got It Wrong? Was There One or Two Demoniacs Delivered?” The Gospel Coalition Canada. https://ca.thegospelcoalition.org/article/who-got-it-wrong-was-there-one-or-two-demoniacs-delivered/ 

Sunday Series-Episode 12: Gestalt Moments-Transforming Worldviews with New Perspectives

Welcome to the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast with Lance Smith, as we journey into week 12 of our enlightening series through J. Steve Miller's book, "Faith is Not Blind." In this episode, we explore the concept of a paradigm shift, or gestalt experience, and how it can dramatically alter one's perception of reality, akin to swapping blurred glasses for a 4K VR headset.
Dive into Thomas Kuhn's insights from "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions" on how paradigm shifts occur not by accumulating evidence, but through sudden, transformative insights. Follow the story of Peter Hitchens and his transformative encounter with religious art that reignited his belief, reshaping his atheistic views.
Engage with thought-provoking experiments, as Lance Smith encourages listeners to look beyond logic to embrace those moments of profound insight—gestalt moments—that offer a new understanding of the universe and the divine.
Join the conversation, share your thoughts at BibleDifficultiesAndAnswers@Gmail.com, and stay tuned for our next deep dive into existential fit. Don't miss this episode, where a simple shift in perspective can illuminate new dimensions of faith.
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 
Hitchens, P. (2010). The Rage Against God: How Atheism Led Me to Faith. Zondervan.
Kuhn, T. S. (1962). The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. University of Chicago Press.
Rice, A. (2008). Called Out of Darkness: A Spiritual Confession. Knopf.

Exodus 21:29-30 Unraveled: The Mystery of the Killer Ox

In this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith explores a complex and intriguing question from the Book of Exodus. What happens when negligence leads to death in ancient Israelite law? Dive into the case of a notorious ox with a deadly history, and how a community grapples with issues of justice, responsibility, and mercy.
Smith breaks down the biblical contradictions between Exodus and Numbers, and ponders the deeper principles at play. Why would a seemingly straightforward death penalty law allow for a ransom in certain cases? Is there a divine nuance that balances justice with mercy?
This episode unpacks these questions and more, offering insights into God's character and how these ancient laws might still speak to modern challenges.
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 
New Revised Standard Version:https://a.co/d/4aZk9Wn 
Karaite Insights. “Eye for an Eye.” https://karaiteinsights.com/article/eye-for-an-eye
Pastor Rodney. “Exodus 21:12-32.” https://pastorrodney.wordpress.com/2011/10/16/exodus21_12-32/
Got Questions. “What does the Bible say about the death penalty?” https://www.gotquestions.org/death-penalty.html
Apologetics Press. “God and Capital Punishment.” https://apologeticspress.org/god-and-capital-punishment-5415/
Sefaria. “Expiation Payment.” https://www.sefaria.org/topics/expiation-payment?sort=Relevance&tab=notable-sources
Johnson, Richard A. “Lex Talionis in Exodus 21:22-25.” https://scholarship.stu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1372&context=stlr
Superior Word. “Exodus 21:28-36 (The Price of a Life).” https://superiorword.org/exodus-21-28-36-the-price-of-a-life/
Truly Random Verse. “Exodus 21:30.” https://trulyrandomverse.com/exodus/21-30
The Nexus. “Digging in Deeper: Exodus 21:28-32, 35-36.” https://the-nexus.blog/2024/03/19/digging-in-deeper-exodus-2128-32-35-36/

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/