The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Genesis 46:8-27 – Deciphering the Mystery of the 12 Tribes of Israel

Welcome to this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast where we delve into the intriguing question of the 12 tribes of Israel. How can the Bible consistently mention 12 tribes when lists sometimes include more than that?
Join host Lance Smith as we explore the historical and theological reasons behind this numerical conundrum. Learn about the unique roles of the tribe of Levi and the dual inheritance of Joseph’s sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, as well as the significance of the number 12 as a symbol of divine order and completeness.
Tune in to uncover how different contexts within the Bible maintain this symbolic number, enriching your understanding of scripture and deepening your 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 
https://a.co/d/7shn4hI (The Big Book of Bible Difficulties from Amazon)
https://overviewbible.com/12-tribes-israel/ 

Tuesday Contradictions: Luke 23:43-Unraveling the Mystery: Where Did Jesus Go After Death?

Welcome to another episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, hosted by Lance Smith. In this episode, we explore the intriguing question about Jesus' destination after his crucifixion: did he go to hell or paradise? We delve into Luke 23:43 and the Apostles' Creed, shedding light on historical interpretations and scriptural contexts that address this debate.
Uncover the confusion brought by the phrase "He descended to hell" in the Apostles' Creed—its origins, its appearances in theological history, and how it stands against early Christianity's beliefs. We'll dig into key biblical passages often cited in this debate and provide clarity on the common misconceptions.
This episode not only challenges the idea of Jesus' descent into hell but also reaffirms the immediacy of entering paradise upon death for believers. It offers insights into salvation, eternal life, and the after-death promises given to the faithful. Join us as we navigate through scripture and tradition to unravel these questions.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may 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/first/contra2_list.html (The Skeptics Annotated Bible)
https://www.logos.com/grow/the-apostles-creed-its-history-and-origins/ 
https://www.peterhaas.org/did-christ-really-descend-into-hell/ 
https://fightoffaithblog.com/2024/03/05/was-the-gospel-preached-to-the-dead-understanding-1-peter-46/ 
https://www.gotquestions.org/did-Jesus-go-to-hell.html 
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/does-1-peter-teach-jesus-preached-hell/ 
https://jesusplusnothing.com/series/post/where-was-jesus-between-his-death-and-resurrection 
https://jesusplusnothing.com/series/post/where-was-jesus-between-his-death-and-resurrection 

Genesis 46:4 – Understanding God's Promise to Jacob: A Journey from Egypt to Eternity

In this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith delves into the profound promise made by God to Jacob, as recorded in Genesis 46:4. The discussion navigates through Jacob's emotional journey to Egypt, his reunion with his son Joseph, and the multifaceted interpretations of God's promise to bring Jacob back from Egypt.
Explore three distinct fulfillments of this divine assurance: the national return of Jacob's descendants, Jacob's burial in the promised land, and the eschatological vision of resurrection. This episode highlights the enduring nature of God's promises and their relevance to our lives today.
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://a.co/d/7shn4hI (The Big Book of Bible Difficulties from Amazon)
https://www.thetorah.com/article/god-goes-down-to-egypt-with-jacob-a-story-for-the-exiles 
https://beyondthebasics.blog/2024/03/10/genesis-46-jacobs-exile-to-egypt/ 
https://randyduncan.com/jacob-joseph-reunited-genesis-46/

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 4:10 – Should You Serve God Alone? A Closer Look

Welcome to another episode of Bible Difficulties and Answers, where we dissect so-called contradictions in the Scriptures to reveal deeper truths. This episode explores the provocative question: should you serve God alone? Host Lance Smith examines the implications of biblical texts like Matthew 4:10 and their relationship with commands for slaves, wives, and children. Through historical context and linguistic analysis, he highlights how these passages align as facets of a life dedicated to God.
Dive into a nuanced analysis of biblical servitude, uncovering the misunderstood practices of indentured servitude in ancient texts. Learn how 'serve' in Matthew 4:10 deepens our understanding of worship and relationship-related instructions.
Finally, we consider how biblical directives for serving earthly figures fit within a broader, God-centered framework. Discover how ultimate allegiance, transformative obedience, and serving as unto the Lord offer a harmonious view of serving God while honoring human relationships.
Join Lance as he equips listeners with the tools to navigate these challenging questions with context and clarity, enhancing your understanding of Scripture.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may 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/first/contra2_list.html (The Skeptics Annotated Bible)
https://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Lexicon.show/ID/G3000/latreuo.htm  
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/thabiti-anyabwile/reading-the-bible-like-jesus-matthew-41-11/ 

Genesis 32:30 – Can We Truly See God's Face? Unraveling Biblical Contradictions

Welcome to this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, where host Lance Smith delves into one of the most puzzling questions in scripture: Can we truly see God's face? What does it mean when the Bible states that Moses spoke to God face-to-face, yet also mentions that no one can see God and live?
In today's discussion, we examine these intriguing biblical accounts, focusing on the encounters of Moses and Jacob with the divine. We explore various explanations, from God's controlled revealing of Himself to the notion of early appearances of Jesus, known as Christophanies.
Join us as we navigate these apparent contradictions and uncover deeper truths about God's nature and His desire to connect with humanity. Gain insights into the theological implications of these encounters and the broader narrative of scripture that they contribute to.
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://a.co/d/7shn4hI (The Big Book of Bible Difficulties from Amazon)
https://answersingenesis.org/who-is-god/face-to-face/
https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/jacob-wrestles-god-2/commentary-on-genesis-329-13-22-30 

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 4:1 (Part 2) – "Untangling the Temptation: Jesus' Dual Nature Explained"

Welcome to the "Bible Difficulties and Answers" podcast, where host Lance Smith delves into a fascinating theological question: If Jesus is God, can he be tempted? In this episode, Lance explores the apparent contradiction between Matthew 4:1 and James 1:13 to uncover the profound truths behind Jesus' dual nature.
Through a deep examination of Scripture and theological insights, learn how Jesus' truly divine and truly human nature presents a unique understanding of temptation. Discover how external temptations test character without compromising sinlessness, offering listeners a new perspective on faith.
This episode promises to enrich your understanding of Christology and offer encouragement as you face life's own challenges, providing a thought-provoking look into divine mystery and human experience.
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may 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/first/contra2_list.html (The Skeptics Annotated Bible)
https://a.co/d/9Sa3k03 (The MacArthur Study Bible)
https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/question-answer/was-christ-a-divine-human-person
https://www.gotquestions.org/led-into-the-wilderness-to-be-tempted.html 
https://devosfromthehill.org/2014/09/24/the-temptation-of-jesus/ 
https://www.biblicaltheology.com/Research/SchellenbergJB05.pdf

Genesis 31:32 – Unpacking Rachel's Controversial Decision: A Dive into Deceit and Divine Justice

In this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith delves into a perplexing biblical narrative from Genesis 31, exploring the actions of Rachel, who steals her father Laban's idols and lies about it. The discussion centers on the intriguing moral and theological questions her actions raise, particularly concerning divine justice and human responsibility. Lance examines various interpretations of Rachel's motivations, including securing a family's inheritance and seeking revenge. Despite escaping immediate consequences, Rachel's story serves as a cautionary tale highlighting the complex interplay of deceit, divine protection, and ultimate accountability. Join us as we unravel this enigmatic story and its implications for understanding God's justice and human actions.
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://a.co/d/7shn4hI (The Big Book of Bible Difficulties from Amazon)
https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/genesis-31/ 
https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/317922?lang=bi 
https://www.coffeeandabible.com/household-idols/ 

Tuesday Contradictions: Matthew 3:4-6 – Unveiling the Mysteries of John the Baptist's Baptism Sites

In this episode of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, host Lance Smith delves into the intriguing question of where John the Baptist baptized. While the Gospels of Matthew and Mark emphasize baptisms in the Jordan River, the Gospel of John mentions Bethany beyond the Jordan, also known as Bethabara, providing a more precise location. Lance explores the historical and spiritual significance of these sites and how they contribute to our understanding of biblical narratives.
The episode also touches on other potential baptismal locations, such as Aenon near Salim, suggesting that John's ministry was dynamic and widespread. This exploration highlights the rich diversity within the biblical text and the importance of understanding geographical contexts. Join Lance as he uncovers deeper truths behind these seemingly contradictory scripture details, inviting listeners to reflect on the places that bring comfort and renewal in their own lives. Don't forget to interact with the show on Facebook and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform!
References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may 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/first/contra2_list.html (The Skeptics Annotated Bible)
G. A. Smith, "Atlas of the Historical Geography of the Holy Land" (HGHL; 1915)
https://dannythedigger.com/john-the-baptist-baptism-sites/
https://www.gotquestions.org/where-was-Jesus-baptized.html
https://everything-everywhere.com/unesco-world-heritage-site-298-baptism-site-bethany-beyond-the-jordan/ 
https://www.seetheholyland.net/bethany-beyond-the-jordan/ 
https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/news/baptismal-site-bethany-beyond-the-jordan-added-to-unesco-world-heritage-list/ 
https://www.biblewalks.com/aenon/