Genesis Marks the Spot

Continuing the water series by framing purification and holiness through an ancient Near Eastern lens and a Christotelic (telos-aimed) reading of Scripture. We contrast Christocentric “reading back” with Christotelic “reading forward,” explore holy/common vs clean/unclean as two distinct axes, and ask whether Leviticus was ever meant to be a sin-management system—or a way to host a holy God in sacred space. Along the way: covenant at Sinai, ritual logic, righteousness in OT vs NT, and why Jesus as incarnate Holy One unites holy and common in himself. Bonus at the end: Carey’s first look at The Unseen Realm: Expanded Edition and its nods to frame semantics and christological lenses. In this episode Editing experiment: does lighter editing serve the mission better? Why hermeneutics matters: Christocentric vs Christotelic readings Purity → Holiness: which comes first in human religious imagination? Two spectra, not one: holy/common and clean/unclean Leviticus beyond “sin management”: making space for divine presence Covenant first, cult second; why Israel is unique amid the ANE Righteousness reconsidered across Testaments Word-study pointers: “pure/purge/refine” (gold, oil, incense), ritual vs ethical usage Teaser: upcoming episodes on atonement frames, water vs fire, and Divine Council themes Resources mentioned Michael S. Heiser, The Unseen Realm — Expanded Edition (new front-matter on frames & christological lenses) John Walton on Christotelic reading (telos-oriented Scripture) Carey’s On This Rock community (October theme: Unseen Realm) Support / connect Join the convers... Chapters (00:00:00) - Why hermeneutics matters (not talking past each other)(00:06:03) - Ritual & baptism recap; the big question: purity or holiness first?(00:09:28) - A Christological lens: setting the stage(00:10:40) - Christocentric reading (arrows radiating back)(00:15:06) - Christotelic reading (arrows moving forward to Jesus)(00:17:26) - Case study: purification as our test-bed(00:20:51) - Is Leviticus a sin-management system? Rethinking assumptions(00:24:34) - What is holiness? Modern conflations vs ancient otherness(00:27:07) - Holiness as divine “set-apartness,” not mere moralism(00:30:41) - Don’t import later ideas into earlier texts(00:33:31) - Two axes: holy/common and clean/unclean (and the “powder-keg” mix)(00:36:33) - Why purification precedes holiness; historical signals(00:39:04) - Covenant first, cult second; Israel vs the ANE(00:43:41) - Intuitive logic of purification; why it feels “obvious”(00:47:17) - Word-study invites: pure, purge, refine; ritual vs ethical purity(00:50:45) - Fire, water, and purging; future directions(00:53:01) - Righteousness OT vs NT: behavior, justice, belonging(00:57:38) - Bonus: Unseen Realm Expanded, frame semantics, and themes for October

This episode of Genesis Marks the Spot explores the meaning and function of ritual with a special focus on baptism. From Jewish mikvahs and Qumran practices to Greco-Roman mystery rites and John the Baptist’s wilderness call, baptism emerges as more than a symbol—it’s participation in a story of death, resurrection, and new creation. We’ll look at biblical passages (Romans 6, Galatians 3, Colossians 2, and more), denominational perspectives, and how ritual frames help us move beyond false binaries of “just symbolic” versus “mechanistic.” Topics include: What ritual is and why it matters Rituals as communal participation and transformation Jewish and Greco-Roman contexts for baptism Jesus’ baptism as a Trinitarian theophany Baptism in Acts and the Pauline letters Denominational views on baptism How rituals shape identity, allegiance, and belonging On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/   Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - Ritual Before Purification(00:04:33) - Defining Ritual(00:10:24) - Scriptural Examples(00:13:25) - Ritual Frames(00:16:12) - Backgrounds: Jewish & Greco-Roman(00:22:14) - John the Baptist(00:24:36) - Jesus’ Baptism as Theophany (Identity and Revelation)(00:27:16) - Baptism in Acts(00:29:42) - Paul on Baptism(00:38:34) - New Creation & Reconciliation(00:42:02) - Baptism as Allegiance/Exodus(00:43:55) - What Baptism Does(00:49:28) - Baptism, Spirit, & Sacred Space(00:52:24) - Denominational Snapshots(00:55:08) - Reflection Questions and Moving Past False Binaries

This episode continues our deep dive into the biblical theme of water. From Genesis to the prophets, from Eden’s rivers to Israel’s covenant rain, water frames the story of God’s presence, judgment, and renewal. Along the way we’ll explore: How waters above (rain) and waters below (springs, rivers) carry distinct theological meanings Why the flood brings both destruction and recreation Ancient Near Eastern cosmology of water and how the Bible reframes it The difference between living water, rainwater, and cisterns—and how they connect to Spirit and baptism Stories like Hagar in the wilderness and Rebekah at the well as pictures of God’s provision and promise What does all of this mean for baptism, covenant, and discipleship today? Join me as we trace the living streams back to their source. On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/   Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - The Various Frames of Water(00:05:17) - The Flood and Cosmic Collapse(00:07:12) - Baptism in Living Water(00:09:08) - Genesis 2 and the Mist/Stream Debate(00:12:00) - Ancient Views: Canopy, Myth, or Irrigation?(00:18:38) - Irrigation, Eden, and God’s Presence(00:24:14) - Three Kinds of Water(00:25:51) - Rain as Divine Gift (and Judgment)(00:28:27) - Ancient Near Eastern Cosmology(00:32:58) - Paradise and Covenant: Two Water Frames(00:36:12) - Spirit as Living Water(00:40:10) - Springs Drying Up: Judgment & Apostasy(00:43:53) - Toil, Curse, and Exile from Eden(00:53:22) - Rebekah at the Well: Hospitality & Testing...Who?(00:56:29) - Israel’s Water Supply, Covenant, and Thresholds(00:58:47) - Thematic Tracing & Frame Semantics(01:04:01) - Resources & Invitation

In this episode of Genesis Marks the Spot, Carey sits down with Phil Bray—author of Leviticus on the Butcher’s Block and creator of the YouTube channel Leviticus is Fun—for a wide-ranging conversation on sacrifice, atonement, and the surprising beauty of Leviticus. They explore: How Leviticus reframes atonement away from wrath and toward restoration Why sacrifice isn’t about death, but about life and communion What Phil learned from being both a butcher and a Bible nerd How Leviticus helps us understand Hebrews, Jesus, and the Lord’s Supper Whether the sacrificial system was an accommodation… and if so, what kind Why blood and water both purify—and how Jesus’ life transforms both Why Passover and atonement aren't the same, and why that matters for communion The deeper frames behind the word “substitution” Carey and Phil also dive into the contagious holiness of Jesus, purification rituals, and why Christians must learn to disambiguate muddy theological terms like “atonement” and “substitution.” This episode is part of our Atonement monthly theme over at the On This Rock biblical theology community. Join us to discuss the many frames of substitution, atonement, and covenant—and be sure to check out Phil’s channel and book!   Links & Resources: Phil’s YouTube: Leviticus Is Fun Leviticus on the Butcher’s Block   On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/   Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot Chapters (00:00:00) - Intro & Guest Welcome(00:02:00) - From Butcher to Bible Nerd(00:04:32) - Echo Chambers & Reading the Bible for Yourself(00:08:14) - Making Leviticus Fun(00:14:09) - Was Leviticus an Accommodation?(00:18:07) - Life, Not Death, Is the Goal(00:20:53) - Fellowship Meal and...Purification??(00:25:04) - Passover and Blood on the Doorframe(00:27:45) - Was Passover a Sacrifice?(00:29:52) - The Blood is for Covenant(00:33:28) - Leviticus and Christian Communion(00:36:45) - Water & Blood: The Life Connection(00:41:21) - Contagious Holiness(00:46:12) - What If We Didn’t Have the Word Atonement?(00:50:01) - Restoring Creation, Not Just Covering Sin(00:52:46) - Phil’s Channel & Upcoming Projects(00:55:51) - Leviticus Helps Us Read Hebrews(00:57:43) - Frames of Substitution: A Project is Born(01:01:31) - Leviticus on the Butcher's Block(01:05:56) - An Immersive Experience

Water flows through Scripture as far more than a backdrop — it carries covenant, hospitality, conflict, and even divine judgment. This episode of Genesis Marks the Spot traces how the Bible uses water as a sign of both intimacy and power. We begin at the wells of Genesis, where stories like Rebekah’s hospitality and the Samaritan woman in John 4 tie water to covenant, marriage, and the faithful love of God. These encounters at the well aren’t just about refreshment — they become turning points where covenant identity is revealed and extended. From there, the theme widens: Isaac’s struggle over wells in Genesis 26, Hezekiah’s tunnel in 2 Chronicles 32, and the strange, unsettling story of 2 Kings 3 where water looks like blood and wrath erupts on the battlefield. In each case, water symbolizes more than survival — it becomes a stage where covenant promises, human conflict, and divine purposes collide. Through these narratives, we see how living water ultimately finds fulfillment in Christ, the true Bridegroom, who offers hospitality at the well and baptismal union in the Spirit. Water can be a gift of life, a sign of covenant marriage, or even a weapon of war — but all of these streams converge in Jesus, the one who brings both judgment and renewal. Wade into the deep waters — from covenant hospitality to power struggles — and uncover how Scripture’s water stories prepare us to understand baptism in all its richness. Explore more and join the conversation at On-This-Rock.com On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/   Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - The Many Faces of Water in Scripture(00:05:34) - Water in Creation(00:07:12) - Water Bookends the Bible(00:10:23) - Water, Hospitality & Covenant(00:11:32) - Rebekah at the Well (Genesis 24)(00:17:19) - John 4: The Samaritan Woman(00:21:19) - Narrative vs. Doctrinal Reading(00:23:39) - Marriage, Wells, and Covenant in Scripture(00:25:36) - Marriage Type Scenes and John 4(00:27:42) - Covenant & Baptism Connections(00:32:44) - Transition to Water as Conflict & Power(00:33:34) - Isaac’s Wells (Genesis 26)(00:36:49) - Hezekiah and the Tunnel (2 Chronicles 32)(00:41:29) - Toil vs. God’s Provision (Deuteronomy 11)(00:43:31) - Strange Story of 2 Kings 3(00:50:03) - Whose Wrath? Interpretive Puzzles(00:55:24) - Water, Wrath, and Mercy(00:58:15) - Christ as the Fulfillment of the Water Stories

In this episode of Genesis Marks the Spot, Carey Griffel sits down with Dr. Matthew Bates—New Testament scholar and author of Salvation by Allegiance Alone, Gospel Allegiance, and Beyond the Salvation Wars. Together, they explore what it really means to proclaim Jesus as King, how allegiance reframes faith, and why justification should be seen as a benefit of the gospel rather than the gospel itself. The conversation touches on: The difference between biblical theology and systematic theology How gospel allegiance compares with “lordship salvation” and “believing loyalty” Substitution, atonement, and representation in Paul’s letters Baptism, corporate identity, and the role of children in the believing community How Catholics and Protestants might find common ground This dialogue bridges scholarship and discipleship, inviting us to think deeply about what the gospel is, what it isn’t, and how it calls us to live together as the people of God. Links mentioned in the show: Dr. Matthew Bates’ website:  Matthew W. Bates   On Script Podcast:  OnScript    On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/   Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Win... Chapters (00:00:00) - Introduction to Dr. Bates’ Work(00:06:12) - Matthew Bates’ Journey(00:10:53) - What Is Biblical Theology?(00:13:14) - The Gospel as Royal Allegiance(00:17:25) - Allegiance, Lordship Salvation, and Believing Loyalty(00:23:01) - Gospel, Holiness, and Priesthood(00:27:20) - Justification and the Gospel(00:33:20) - Cross-Shaped Love and Substitution(00:41:44) - Individual and Corporate Salvation(00:45:34) - Baptism and Allegiance(00:53:21) - Beyond the Salvation Wars(00:57:17) - Catholic Responses to the Book?(00:59:05) - Looking Ahead: Tracing Baptism-Adjacent Themes

In this follow-up to the discussion of J. Harvey Walton’s dissertation, let’s look closer into his reframing of Eden—not as a perfect paradise but as fragile divine order. Carey pushes back on Walton’s rejection of covenant in Genesis 2–3 and explores how his ideas intersect with Paul’s Adam–Christ typology in Romans 5 and 1 Corinthians 15. Along the way, we’ll examine: The tension between fragile order, chaos, and evil in Genesis Whether Eden was covenantal “proto-temple” space Adam’s act as covenantal headship rather than simple rebellion How covenant strengthens Paul’s Adam–Christ parallel without collapsing it into a theodicy What Christ’s resurrection means as “secured divine order” If Eden sets the stage for fragile human order, then Christ secures incorruptible life. This episode explores how covenant, resurrection, and divine order fit together in the big story of Scripture.      On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/    Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - Walton’s Reframing of Eden(00:04:49) - Mortality and the Tree of Life(00:08:33) - Trees as Legitimate Choice?(00:11:16) - Sin vs Premature Disobedience(00:15:38) - Pushback: Did Adam Still Break Order?(00:18:25) - Ancient Theodicy vs. Genesis’ Covenant Story(00:23:30) - The Gospel in Genesis?(00:28:29) - Walton’s Major Inconsistency(00:32:37) - Adam as Universal Archetype and Proto-Israel(00:38:12) - Proto-Covenant Theology vs. Walton’s Break(00:42:33) - Adam and Jesus: Temptation in Parallel(00:43:19) - Romans 5 in Covenant Light(00:55:37) - 1 Corinthians 15: Resurrection as Secured Order(01:03:07) - Comparing Theological Traditions(01:05:23) - Resurrection as Completed Divine Order

Was Eden ever the perfect paradise we imagine? Exploring J. Harvey Walton’s groundbreaking dissertation on Genesis 2–4. Walton challenges the familiar Eden–Fall–Redemption narrative, arguing that the text’s original audience didn’t see a perfect paradise shattered by sin, but a fragile, unfinished order constantly threatened by chaos and evil. We unpack: Walton’s tri-fold framework of order, chaos, and evil; Genesis’s critique of Babylonian cultural ideals; and the surprising role of Eden as divine—but uncomfortable—space which leads to the choice between two trees: stay eternally in discomfort or enter the realm of human-ordered existence. Along the way, Carey offers her own insights, engages early church perspectives, and asks what this reframing means for our understanding of the gospel.      On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/    Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - Walton’s Threefold Framework: Order, Chaos, and Evil(00:05:35) - Eden as Divine Space, Not Perfect Paradise(00:10:34) - The Hebraic Mindset vs Greek Dualism(00:15:21) - Civilization, Legacy, and the Problem of Mortality(00:21:16) - Cain, Cities, and the Fragility of Human Order(00:26:41) - Chaos vs. Evil in Biblical Theology(00:32:01) - Eternal Life or Human Ordered Existence?(00:37:38) - Axiology: That Which Brings Good(00:42:43) - ANE Death, Legacy, and the Defeat of Chaos(00:50:02) - Seeing Chaos, Not Just Evil(00:55:33) - Opening the Door to New Ideas

In this special episode of Genesis Marks the Spot, Carey shares the heart and vision behind her new online community—On This Rock—a distraction-free space for deep Bible study, discipleship, and ministry growth. From the biblical inspiration in Matthew 16 to the practical ways members can connect, learn, and serve together, Carey invites you into a global conversation that’s Christ-centered, Scripture-drenched, Spirit-led, and community-shaped. Whether you’re passionate about the Divine Council Worldview, eager to explore the Bible in its original context, or simply looking for a place to grow in faith alongside others, this is your invitation to join a movement where theology meets life. Links & Resources: Join the community: on-this-rock.com Related places & spaces: Genesis Marks the Spot, Leviticus is Fun, Answers to Giant Questions, the Two Trees Podcast, and more. Website: genesismarksthespot.com      Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - The Vision: A Biblical Theology Community(00:04:44) - Why Social Media Isn’t Enough(00:07:41) - Launching “On This Rock” & Why the Name(00:11:20) - Faith, Evidence, and Unity in Christ(00:16:23) - Asking Questions While Staying Christ-Centered(00:20:01) - Unity at the Table & Romans 14(00:29:04) - Critical Thinking Meets Discipleship(00:32:09) - Bridging Scripture, Tradition, and Church History(00:36:06) - The Holy Spirit’s Role in Community(00:40:31) - What “On This Rock” Is & Isn’t(00:45:07) - Spaces, Themes, and Paid Tier Benefits(00:54:13) - How to Join & Participate(00:57:55) - August Theme: How to Read a Book(00:59:08) - Closing Thoughts & Next Week’s Topic

Did female Nephilim exist? It's a fascinating question—and one that seems straightforward from a modern lens. But this episode takes you deep into the symbolic, theological, and cultural frameworks of the ancient world to explore why the biblical narrative omits female Nephilim entirely. Unpack the logic of Genesis 6 through the lens of biblical theology, cultural anthropology, ancient gender norms, and frame semantics. You'll also explore the significance of “gibborim,” the role of the queen mother in Israelite tradition, ancient conceptions of reproduction, and why projecting modern biological assumptions onto Genesis may distort what the text is affirming. This episode loops in Walton’s concepts of “referent and affirmation” and gives bonus insight into the conquest narratives, giant clans, and the enduring theological danger of false worship—whether it comes from the sword or the seduction of idolatry. Are queen mothers the female counterpart to the gibborim? ⚔️ Why is violence—not biology—the defining symbol of Nephilim identity? What does this all mean for how we read Genesis today? A thoughtful, bold, and theologically grounded journey through ancient texts and modern assumptions. On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/    Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - The Question Nobody’s Asking(00:01:37) - Sons of God, Not Just Angels(00:03:56) - Affirmation, Referent, and Modern Assumptions(00:06:39) - Symbolism, Genre, and Mount Hermon(00:12:07) - Ancient Frame: Chaos, Corruption, and Cosmic Rebellion(00:13:44) - Who Are the Gibborim?(00:24:00) - Gender, Power, and the Queen Mother(00:31:07) - Two Paths of Power: Warrior vs. Womb(00:37:16) - Ancient Theories of Conception(00:44:43) - Why Nephilim Were Always Male(00:49:27) - Queen Mothers as Chaos Agents(00:56:28) - Giant Clans, the Flood, and the Disconnect(01:01:19) - Conquest Fears, Violence, and False Worship

What if the Bible talks about things it doesn’t actually affirm? That’s the question John and J. Harvey Walton explore in their referent/affirmation hermeneutic—a method that seeks to distinguish between what Scripture uses culturally and what it teaches theologically. In this content-heavy episode, we dig deep into the Waltons' approach, explore strengths and critiques (especially in relation to canonical reading and supernatural conflict), and propose ways to integrate their work into a more theological, Christ-centered, and canonically-aware method of reading. We’ll examine where this model helps (especially with ancient Near Eastern context), where it struggles (like with canonical coherence and spiritual conflict), and how it interacts with voices like Michael Heiser. Along the way, we’ll ask the hard questions: Can a time-bound referent convey timeless truth? Does later canonical development affirm what earlier authors left open? Are we treating the Bible like a spiritual taxonomy or a wisdom text? If you’ve wrestled with how the Bible speaks of firmaments, spirits, demons, cosmic powers—or just how to read your Bible with both eyes open—this episode is for you. On This Rock Biblical Theology Community:  https://on-this-rock.com/ Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - Conflict Theology as Time-Bound Context(00:02:48) - Minimalist vs Maximalist Hermeneutics(00:04:48) - Waltons’ Book on Demons(00:06:03) - Heiser: "Danger, Danger John Walton"(00:09:06) - Referent vs Affirmation: Genesis and Cosmology(00:11:07) - The Core Tension: Cultural Context & Lasting Truth(00:13:11) - Defining Referent and Affirmation(00:16:29) - Are the Waltons DeMythologizing?(00:18:45) - Why Methodology, Not the Model, Is the Problem(00:21:52) - Methodology and Canonical vs Minimalist Readings(00:25:03) - Dangers of Misreading Referent as Affirmation(00:30:36) - Baal, Pharaoh, Accommodation, and Ontology(00:35:11) - Canon, Redaction, and Authorial Intent(00:40:20) - Beyond “New”: Reaffirming, Recontextualizing, Redeeming(00:44:18) - Is Supernatural = Not Scientific?(00:47:49) - The Problem of Mapping Ancient Deities Across Time(00:54:18) - Affirmation Without Systematizing(00:57:32) - Turning It Up to 11

Venturing deep into the world of biblical interpretation—exploring the methods that shape how we read Scripture, how we understand righteousness, holiness, and obedience, and why John Walton's work continues to spark both admiration and controversy. We’ll survey key interpretive methodologies: literalist, historical-grammatical, canonical, literary-narrative, historical-critical, and the socio-cultural ancient Near Eastern approach. Then, we dive headfirst into the power of frame semantics—a tool that challenges modern assumptions and re-centers our understanding around ancient biblical worldviews. Topics covered: What’s the difference between exegesis, interpretation, and hermeneutics? Why biblical theology requires a mix of methods How John Walton’s approach reframes key concepts The covenantal, vocational meaning of obedience Holiness as divine presence, not moral perfection Righteousness as relational fidelity, not legal status How salvation is more about divine rescue than a heavenly transaction Mentioned Resources: Frame Semantics Study Guide  Whether you're a seminarian, a Sunday school teacher, or just someone who wants to understand the Bible on its own terms, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Also, join my new Biblical Theology Community!  Find it here: on-this-rock.com “On This Rock” Biblical Theology Community   Chapters (00:00:00) - Introduction & Walton’s Work(00:04:29) - Frame Semantics Mention & Community Plug(00:06:15) - Why Methodology Matters(00:07:11) - Defining Interpretation, Exegesis, and Hermeneutics(00:11:17) - My Toolkit: Method Crossover(00:18:26) - Method #1: Literalist Reading(00:20:03) - Method #2: Historical-Grammatical(00:22:41) - Method #3: Canonical Approach(00:27:23) - Comparison: Historical-Grammatical vs Canonical(00:33:31) - Method #4: Literary / Narrative Criticism(00:36:12) - Comparison: Historical-Grammatical vs Literary(00:37:15) - Method #5: Historical-Critical(00:39:17) - Method #6: Socio-Cultural / Ancient Near Eastern (Walton's Method)(00:44:58) - Introduction to Frame Semantics(00:46:30) - Compatibility with Each Method(00:51:24) - Reframing Key Words (Walton Examples)(00:52:12) - Frame: Righteousness(00:55:05) - Frame: Holiness(00:57:26) - Frame: Obedience(01:03:48) - Frame: Salvation(01:11:39) - Righteousness vs. Salvation: Comparative Frames(01:14:55) - Frame Review: How Righteousness & Salvation Work Together(01:18:13) - Why Frame Semantics Matters for Interpretation(01:19:05) - Outro & Community Invitation

This episode of Genesis Marks the Spot centers on an example of biblical theology, reframing how we understand law—not as rigid legislation, but as wisdom anchored in covenant relationship. Drawing from The Lost World of the Torah by John Walton and J. Harvey Walton, Carey challenges modern assumptions about law, obedience, and divine command theory, while weaving in reflections on context, tradition, and the role of interpretation in the church. Why does it matter how we define “law”? What does Torah as wisdom mean for our modern theological frameworks? And how can covenant thinking reshape our understanding of justice, purity, and faithfulness? Carey doesn’t shy away from the complexities—she explores the intersection of Scripture, culture, and context with clarity and conviction. If you’ve ever wrestled with the law/grace debate or wondered how ancient covenants connect with contemporary discipleship, this episode is for you. Plus, Carey shares details about an exciting new community platform for deeper study, discussion, and collaboration in biblical theology. Don’t miss it! Website: genesismarksthespot.com    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot    Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/   Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan Chapters (00:00:00) - Wisdom, Wine, and the Covenant Trail(00:04:56) - Defining What’s Essential in Church and Sacrament(00:06:55) - What Do We Do With All This Theology?(00:10:27) - Interpretation: Why No Method is Sufficient Alone(00:13:35) - Walton Framework: Torah as Covenant, Not Legislation(00:17:54) - Can We Ever Really Leave Our Context Behind?(00:22:05) - Law as Order: Oracles, Wisdom, and the Ancient Mindset(00:27:32) - Legal Frameworks: Divine Command, Natural Law, and Legalism Today(00:32:45) - Torah and the Two Ways: Life Through Wisdom, Not Death by Rulekeeping(00:38:49) - Covenant Obligations vs. Codified Law(00:46:00) - Holiness and Identity: More Than Moral Behavior(00:50:00) - Sacrifice and Covenant: Participation, Not Propitiation(00:55:19) - Law, Covenant, and the Ten Words: Genre Mashup or Divine Treaty?(00:57:52) - The Three Pillars: Justice, Purity, and Faithfulness(01:01:22) - Wrap-Up: Identity, Wisdom, and What’s Next(01:02:40) - New Project Announcement: A Community for Biblical Theology(01:08:30) - Final Thoughts and Gratitude

This illuminating episode of Genesis Marks the Spot dives deep into the nature of biblical law—just in time for the Fourth of July. What is law, really? Is the Torah a legislative code or a curated teaching tool for ethical formation? Drawing from Michael LeFebvre’s scholarly work Collections, Codes, and Torah, Carey unpacks how law functioned in the ancient world and how it evolved into what many of us assume today. From ancient Near Eastern ox-goring laws to the reforms of Josiah and the philosophical pressures of Hellenistic thought, walk through a legal labyrinth to uncover a surprising alignment between Torah and Jesus’ teachings. Was the Torah meant to be prescriptive legislation—or something more dynamic? This episode sets the stage for an upcoming conversation on J. Harvey Walton’s thesis and what it means to read Genesis 2–3 without modern legal baggage. Spoiler alert: It may change the way you think about sin, covenant, and civilization itself. Website: genesismarksthespot.com   Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot   Music credit: "Marble Machine" by WintergatanLink to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/  Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - Introduction & July 4th Serendipity(00:01:34) - Michael LeFebvre’s Work & Relevance(00:03:26) - Ancient Law in Practice(00:06:40) - The Wisdom Escape Clause?(00:09:05) - Defining Law: Code vs. Collection(00:11:09) - Torah: Code or Collection?(00:14:25) - Literary, Royal, and Judicial Purposes of Law Writings(00:17:04) - Aristotle on ANE Law(00:18:37) - Athenian Influence on Law as Legislation(00:22:20) - Law in Ancient Israel(00:25:12) - Oracles, Customs, and Mosaic Delegation(00:28:14) - Josiah and the Deuteronomic Shift?(00:34:55) - Law, Covenant, and Ethical Formation(00:35:58) - Ezra, Nehemiah, and the Persian Era(00:38:09) - Hellenistic Era and Greek Influence(00:44:46) - Civilization, Law, and Identity(00:49:03) - Qumran Community and Prescriptive Rule(00:50:32) - Jesus, Torah, and the Return of the King(00:54:36) - Final Reflections & Looking Ahead(00:58:14) - Community Vision & Outro

Walk through the ancient Near Eastern background of biblical covenants to arrive at the archetypal Sinai covenant.  Picking up where Episode 132 left off, Carey explores the formal elements of Late Bronze Age treaties and how they echo within the biblical text—especially in the Ten Commandments. Through historical, grammatical, and theological analysis, Carey challenges modern assumptions about covenantal law, explores the dynamic interplay between law and grace, and examines how the Sinai covenant shaped Israel's identity.  Are biblical covenants commands, ideals, or something even richer? Also included are reflections on Abraham’s covenant, the significance of covenant ratification, and a glimpse into upcoming discussions on circumcision, purification, and baptism. Website: genesismarksthespot.com   Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot   Music credit: "Marble Machine" by WintergatanLink to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/  Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome & Recap of Episode 132(00:02:49) - Bronze Age Treaties and the Sinai Covenant(00:06:29) - Prologue and Stipulations(00:10:10) - Dating the Torah Using Covenant Types(00:13:35) - Ten Commandments…Aren’t Commands??(00:21:03) - Witnesses, Sacred Space, and the Ark(00:24:26) - Blessings, Cursings, and Ratification Rituals(00:30:40) - Covenant Violation and Narrative Structure(00:43:06) - Abrahamic Covenant: Genesis 15 Revisited(00:48:37) - Foreshadowing, Typology, and Misreadings(00:51:55) - Patterned Reality vs. Systematization(00:57:22) - Closing Thoughts & Teasers for What’s Next

In this episode of Genesis Marks the Spot, Carey takes listeners beyond prooftexts and into the deep structure of biblical meaning by asking: What kind of thing is a covenant? Drawing from ancient Near Eastern treaty forms, the episode explores how covenantal frames shape not only Genesis but also our understanding of baptism, representation, and the sacramental life.    This isn’t a systematics lecture or a typology sweep—it’s a frame-based investigation that pulls together Bronze Age political rituals, Reformed theology, and embodied covenant signs. Along the way, Carey untangles the difference between representation and substitution, explains why oaths are more than legalities, and opens the door to show how Genesis 2 might be less about a covenant of works and more about a narrative trajectory toward covenant presence…though we still have some work to fully flesh that out, so stay tuned!    Whether you’re a pastor, teacher, or a curious reader of Scripture, this episode will help you see “covenant” not as a theological label, but as a deeply embedded pattern of divine-human encounter.    Website: genesismarksthespot.com   Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot   Music credit: "Marble Machine" by WintergatanLink to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/  Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan  Chapters (00:00:00) - Bridging Rituals—From Wine to Water(00:05:21) - What Is a Covenant?(00:08:17) - Covenant Frames—Systematic vs Ancient Context(00:17:45) - Excavating the Ancient Near East(00:20:07) - What Did Covenant Mean in the Ancient World?(00:26:40) - Suzerain–Vassal Treaties in the Late Bronze Age(00:39:25) - Historical Prologues and Ritual Structure(00:48:12) - Ritual and Representation(01:01:10) - From Blessing to Brutality—Iron Age Covenants(01:05:26) - Reflection and Forward Motion

What connects wine, wrath, baptism, and the flood? This powerful bridge episode toes out into the deep waters of systematic theology that will lead to biblical theology in order to explore how God's covenantal signs—from the cup to the flood—shape a story of transformation.   The conversation sets up how creation, judgment, and restoration are tied together in symbols like water, wine, and blood, but first, a look into how we think about these using a more modern theological lens.  Why and how is the topic of covenant such contested theological ground?  Seeing this will help us step into more daring theology…theology that sees what Scripture sees. Along the way, we’ll look at: How covenant theology differs between dispensationalism and biblical frameworks Why it matters that covenants unfold across genres, authors, and history Whether or not there is a “covenant of works” at the beginning of creation How allegory and typology impact the way we read the beginning of time Whether you’re a longtime student of covenant theology or new to the conversation, this episode invites you to reflect on theology and bridging the gaps it might contain. Website: genesismarksthespot.com   Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot   Music credit: "Marble Machine" by WintergatanLink to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/  Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan Chapters (00:00:00) - Sacraments and Systematic Theology(00:03:31) - Wrath, Salvation, and Flood Motifs(00:14:37) - Covenant as a Transforming Symbol(00:15:24) - Introduction to Covenant Theology(00:21:05) - Covenant vs. Dispensational Frameworks(00:24:43) - Desiring God Article Review(00:38:54) - Biblical Theology and Narrative Flow(00:47:09) - The Creation Covenant Debate(00:57:04) - Typology, Headship, and Progressive Revelation(01:00:51) - Sacraments, Signs, and Identity(01:02:30) - Sign Up for the Newsletter

What does it mean that Jesus drank the cup—and said he would not drink again until the kingdom came? What is that mysterious cup that Jesus didn't want to drink? In this final episode on alcohol in Scripture and with the help of Mark Scarlata's book, Wine, Soil, and Salvation, Carey draws together themes of covenant, celebration, and sacrifice as she explores the messianic banquet and the wisdom of wine.    From the wedding at Cana to the crucifixion, wine serves as a sign of joy, a symbol of suffering, and a seal of the kingdom to come. Carey reflects on the contrast between Jesus and John the Baptist, the priestly significance of wine, and the long-awaited marriage supper of the Lamb.    Along the way, you'll discover:   How the Second Temple leads up to the New Testament   Why Jesus' first miracle wasn't random   How wine becomes covenantal communication   What the difference between John and Jesus reveals about divine calling   Why the cup Jesus took matters for every believer   And what the final feast will taste like   This is the final vintage in a full-bodied biblical theology series on alcohol.  Come thirsty.   Website: genesismarksthespot.com   Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot   Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan  Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/  Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan Chapters (00:00:00) - The Banquet to Come(00:03:18) - The Second Temple Vintage(00:09:46) - Enoch's Feast(00:14:19) - Jubilee's Joy - Wine in the Passover(00:15:40) - Walking Past the Second Temple - 2 Baruch/4 Ezra(00:17:58) - Dead Sea Scrolls - Calendar and New Wine Festival(00:21:13) - Damascus Rule - Not Messing Around with those Greeks(00:25:07) - New Testament: Jesus vs John, Epic Showdown!(00:31:39) - Wedding at Cana: Jesus Opens the Banquet(00:35:03) - Mary, Eve, and the Hour(00:39:17) - Dionysus has Nothing on Jesus(00:40:29) - Old Wine, Old Covenant??(00:43:17) - "Eucharist"(00:47:35) - Jesus as the Paschal Lamb--but Wait! There's More!(00:52:29) - Jesus and the Cup of Wrath(00:56:11) - The Cup of Suffering(01:01:29) - The Cup on the Cross(01:04:04) - Jesus as the True Vine: Abide in Him(01:06:41) - Beyond the Gates of Eden and Revelation 19

In this episode of Genesis Marks the Spot, Carey uncorks the surprising biblical connection between wine and wisdom. What begins as a reflection on the interconnection of John Walton’s New Explorations and a survey of wisdom literature in Mark Scarlata's Wine, Soil, and Salvation blooms into a deeply interwoven meditation on creation order, covenant, and the spiritual maturity that wine represents in Scripture.   You'll hear how Lady Wisdom's banquet in Proverbs aligns with Walton’s evolving theology of creation-as-order, and how biblical wisdom challenges both moralistic and hedonistic extremes in our view of alcohol.  We also tease next week’s exploration into the New Testament, including the contrasting ministries of Jesus and John the Baptist, and what they reveal about God's relational intent.   If you’ve ever wondered what wisdom really looks like with a glass of wine in hand—or why kings shouldn’t drink while the poor might—this is your episode.    Topics Covered:   Covenant as the telos of creation   Wisdom as ordered living in God's world   Wine as blessing, danger, and discernment   Lady Wisdom’s mixed wine in Proverbs 9   Ecclesiastes, Noah, and the post-flood vineyard   A teaser: Why Jesus drank wine but John didn’t   Resources Referenced:   Wine, Soil, and Salvation by Mark Scarlata   The Walton family's work on Genesis and covenant theology   Book of Sirach and Second Temple imagery of feasting   Chapters (00:00:00) - Welcome to Wisdom's Table(00:01:24) - A Surprising Connection to Walton’s Theology(00:04:08) - Recap of the Wine Series So Far(00:06:29) - Why the Lord’s Table Matters in Biblical Theology(00:11:02) - Walton’s View: Creation and Order(00:14:05) - Ancient Covenant, Not Modern Contract(00:16:23) - Genesis 1–11 as a Subversive Narrative(00:19:56) - Wine, Wisdom, and Covenant: A Thematic Convergence(00:23:40) - Proverbs and the Fear of the Lord(00:25:10) - The Immaturity of Abstaining?(00:27:44) - Lady Wisdom’s Banquet and Wine in Proverbs 9(00:31:45) - Wine and Kingship: The Sobriety of Justice(00:36:12) - Drunkenness, Solitary Drinking, and Biblical Warnings(00:37:43) - Ecclesiastes and the Vapor of Life(00:42:46) - Genesis & Covenant vs Ecclesiastes & Toil(00:44:40) - Work as a Gift, Not a Curse(00:49:24) - Second Temple Wisdom: Sirach on Wine and Friendship(00:52:40) - Temple Rituals and Wine Offerings(00:55:03) - Preview of Next Week: Messianic Banquet Themes(00:57:13) - Reflections on Wisdom and Discernment(01:01:30) - What’s Next? Baptism, Feedback, and Prayer Requests

Reviewing John Walton’s newest entry in the Lost World series: New Explorations in the Lost World of Genesis. With clarity and candor, Carey explores Walton’s theological evolution—particularly the move from “functional” to “ordered” creation—and discusses the role of biblical theology in understanding Genesis 1–3.   Carey also responds to popular-level criticisms of Walton’s work, emphasizing the need for good-faith engagement and theological humility. Along the way, she previews ideas from J. Harvey Walton’s dissertation and highlights the foundational theme of covenant, presence, and participation with God—over and above the traditional sin-salvation narrative.   What you'll hear in this episode:   Why biblical theology matters and how it differs from systematic theology   Walton’s shift from “functional” to “ordered” creation   A defense against bizarre and shallow critiques   The Eden debate: temple or divine space?   Adam as priest—or not?   A call for thoughtful, communal theological conversation   This episode is for anyone curious about origins, Genesis 1–3, and how to responsibly engage Scripture in its ancient context.    Blog post on biblical theology mentioned: What Is Biblical Theology?     Website: genesismarksthespot.com   Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GenesisMarkstheSpot   Music credit: "Marble Machine" by Wintergatan  Link to Wintergatan’s website: https://wintergatan.net/  Link to the original Marble Machine video by Wintergatan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IvUU8joBb1Q&ab_channel=Wintergatan Chapters (00:00:00) - Good morning, John Walton.(00:03:25) - Reclaiming the Lost World: What’s Biblical Theology Anyway?(00:06:02) - From Functional to Ordered Creation(00:08:07) - Theology Isn’t a Solo Sport: On Thinking in Community(00:10:08) - What Is Biblical Theology, Really?(00:15:51) - Presence, Not Just Salvation: A New Canonical Meta-Narrative(00:19:51) - Walton, Heiser, and the Danger of Poisoned Wells(00:22:42) - Critics Gonna Critic: Footnotes, Family, and Exegesis(00:27:47) - Deploying the Old Testament: Not Redefining, Redeploying(00:32:24) - Presence, Covenant, and the Real Meta-Narrative(00:37:59) - Eden: Temple or Divine Space?(00:41:13) - Is Adam a Priest or Not?(00:44:13) - Covenant in Genesis 2–3: Is It There?(00:46:51) - Order Through Covenant, Not Civilization(00:49:06) - The Purpose of Covenant Isn’t Just Rules(00:52:28) - Ideas Have Weight: Why Theology Requires Method(00:54:56) - Redeploying the Sabbath: Practical Theology from Ancient Wisdom(00:56:43) - Should You Read This Book?(00:57:37) - What’s Next: Heiser, Divine Council, and More(00:59:20) - Sign-Off: Not About Finding the Lost Ark…