Ask NT Wright Anything

Tom and Mike tackle deep theological questions about resurrection, faith, works, and biblical interpretation, in today's episode of Ask NT Wright Anything. Does Psalm 16 really point to resurrection? Tom unpacks its complex layers of meaning and how first-century Jews understood scripture. We also tackle the thorny question of faith vs. works—what does the New Testament actually teach? Are faith and works interconnected? These questions and more in today's episode! Got Questions for Tom? Go to: askntwright.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From 2019. Listeners want to know about Tom -  Who are his favourite authors? If he could have dinner with anyone from the 20th Century who would it be? Why is he an Anglican? Has he ever struggled with his own faith? • Subscribe to the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast: https://pod.link/1441656192• More shows, free eBook, newsletter, and sign up to ask Tom your questions: https://premierunbelievable.com• For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live• For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training• Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow• Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How should Christians think about transgender identity and faith? What does it mean to deconstruct and reconstruct belief in today’s world? And how do we understand Jesus’ prophecy about the end times?In this episode of Ask NT Wright Anything, Tom Wright and Mike Bird engage with deeply personal and theologically rich questions. They explore how the grace of God meets us amid identity struggles, why pastoral care matters so much in conversations about gender and faith, and how deconstruction can lead to a more resilient Christianity. Got a question for Tom? Go to ⁠⁠askntwright.com⁠ Start going deeper in the Bible with a free trial at ⁠⁠⁠logos.com/NT⁠⁠⁠ 👉 If you’re enjoying this exclusive series, leave us a comment or share what you’re learning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cremation, grace & Resurrection:. This week Tom tackles what does grace really mean in the Bible? Does cremation affect the Christian hope of resurrection? And how should we understand Jesus’ relationship to the Old Testament law? In this episode of Ask NT Wright Anything, Tom Wright and Mike Bird explore the deep connections between 'hesed' in the Old Testament and 'charis' in the New, offering a rich picture of God’s love and faithfulness. They tackle the sensitive topic of cremation and Christian burial, affirming the unshakable hope of resurrection. Finally, together Mike and Tom unpack how Jesus fulfils— not abolishes —the law, showing the continuity between the covenants and the forward-looking nature of practices like the Sabbath. Got a question for Tom? Go to ⁠⁠askntwright.com⁠ Start going deeper in the Bible with a free trial at ⁠⁠⁠logos.com/NT⁠⁠⁠ 👉 If you’re enjoying this exclusive series, leave us a comment or share what you’re learning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom Wright and Mike Bird delve into the Jewish identity of Jesus in this week's episode of the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast. They respond to a listener's question about Paul's instructions in 1 Corinthians 11 and reflect on the moral dilemmas faced by Dietrich Bonhoeffer during the Nazi regime. With depth and clarity, they explore how seeing Jesus within his Jewish context enriches our understanding of the gospel, why Paul's words on worship remain controversial, and how Bonhoeffer's bold choices continue to challenge the church on questions of Biblical ethics, justice, and what role Christians should take on opposing tyranny. Got a question for Tom? Go to ⁠⁠askntwright.com⁠ Start going deeper in the Bible with a free trial at ⁠⁠⁠logos.com/NT⁠⁠⁠ 👉 If you’re enjoying this exclusive series, leave us a comment or share what you’re learning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome to a special Easter edition of Ask NT Wright Anything, where we dig into the historical and theological foundations of the resurrection of Jesus. New Testament scholar Mike Bird joins Tom Wright to raise some tough questions - like why, historically speaking, resurrection is such a radical claim, and whether it can be anything more than a statement of faith. Tom responds by exploring how early Christians understood the resurrection not as a metaphor, but as the bodily vindication of Jesus as Messiah. He highlights the Jewish context, the use of Scripture like 2 Samuel 7, and how this shaped the Church’s understanding of Jesus’ identity, God’s love, and victory over death. This is part one of a two-part Easter conversation. In the second half - free for now but shortly available exclusively to subscribers of Ask NT Wright Anything - Tom continues his seminar with Mike and explores the implications of the resurrection for the Church today and Christian mission. Got a question for Tom? Go to ⁠⁠askntwright.com⁠ Start going deeper in the Bible with a free trial at ⁠⁠⁠logos.com/NT⁠⁠⁠ 👉 If you’re enjoying this exclusive series, leave us a comment or share what you’re learning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are near-death experiences real? Do they give us a glimpse of the afterlife, or should we approach them with caution? What does it mean to live faithfully as a Christian? And who really has the authority to forgive sin— the individual believer, the priest or the church? In this episode of Ask NT Wright Anything, NT Wright and Mike Bird explore these listener questions, tackling the theology of near-death experiences and whether these experiences point to an afterlife, discussing the calling of all of us in our everyday Christian lives and fields of work, and the power and limits of forgiveness in the church. Ask NT Wright Anything is sponsored by Logos – start going deeper in the Bible with a free trial at logos.com/NT Got Questions for Tom? Go to: askntwright.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Ask NT Wright Anything, Tom and Mike dive into two foundational topics: the resurrection and the role of apostles in the early church. What did first-century Jews believe about resurrection? Tom responds to William Lane Craig’s argument that individual resurrections weren’t expected before the End Times. He unpacks how Jesus’ resurrection differs from all others, marking the beginning of God’s new creation. What makes someone an 'Apostle'? The discussion explores Paul’s apostleship, the fluid roles of teachers, prophets, and elders, and the importance of apostolic succession in church leadership. 🎧 If you’ve ever wondered about the resurrection, Paul’s authority, or how church leadership was established, grab your headphones and go ahead and press play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom Wright and Mike Bird explore the biblical concept of the soul, challenging Greek-influenced ideas of dualism and emphasising the New Testament’s focus on bodily resurrection. Does the Bible really teach that we have an immortal soul, or is that a later philosophical addition? They also dive into the genealogies of Jesus in Matthew and Luke, unpacking their differences, theological significance, and historical context. Why do these accounts diverge? What do they reveal about Jesus’ true identity? 🎧 If you've ever questioned what happens after death or why Jesus' genealogy matters, this episode is packed with insights to deepen your faith. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Ask NT Wright Anything, Tom Wright and Mike Bird tackle the controversial question: Was Paul a false apostle? Some argue his message contradicts Jesus, but what does Scripture say? 💡 Key topics this week: Answering historical skepticism toward Paul Paul's apostolic authority, and how his gospel aligns with Jesus’ teachings Plus, Tom discusses Sola Scriptura’s evolution and the Church Fathers' engagement with Scripture and C.S. Lewis’ insights on reading old texts 📖 If you've ever wondered about Paul's authority, his role in early Christianity, or how to interpret Scripture faithfully, this episode is a must-listen! Got Questions for Tom? Go to: askntwright.com • Subscribe: https://pod.link/267142101 • Explore more: https://premierunbelievable.com • Join live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • Support the show: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Was Jesus really the Son of God? Bart Ehrman says no—Tom Wright responds. In this episode of Ask NT Wright Anything, Tom and Mike Bird tackle Jesus' divinity, the Eucharist, the Ten Commandments, and the Sabbath. 💡 Key topics this week: Did Jesus claim to be the Son of God? Tom Wright challenges Ehrman’s argument. The Eucharist—why it matters for Christian worship. The Ten Commandments—do they still apply today? The Sabbath—how Christ fulfills true rest. Got Questions for Tom? Go to: askntwright.com • Subscribe: https://pod.link/267142101 • Explore more: https://premierunbelievable.com • Join live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • Support the show: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom Wright and Dr. Mike Bird dive into deep theological questions in this episode, tackling Inclusion Theology, Universalism, Predestination, and the question of Free Will. 💡 Is salvation universally available? Does predestination mean some are excluded? How do free will and God’s purposes coexist? Tom and Mike unpack these complex questions, shedding light on biblical perspectives that emphasize transformation, assurance, and the church’s role in reflecting God’s image in the world. Key themes in today's episode: Why determinism vs. free will is often a misleading debate. How predestination is about God’s purpose, not exclusion. The Holy Spirit’s role in salvation and human responsibility. Why the New Testament presents salvation as both universal and personal. The Biblical view of the soul vs. Platonic philosophy. 🎧 If you’ve ever wrestled with questions about election, inclusion, or what it means to be human in God’s plan, this episode offers fresh insights to challenge and encourage your faith. Got Questions for Tom? Go to: askntwright.com • Subscribe: https://pod.link/267142101 • Explore more: https://premierunbelievable.com • Join live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • Support the show: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom Wright dives into heaven, the rapture, and the nature of hell through the lens of Christian eschatology in this thought-provoking episode. They address the dangers of sensationalism in interpreting scripture and emphasize the importance of viewing these topics within the broader narrative of God’s new creation. 💡 Does God send sinners to eternal torment? Where is heaven exactly? Can baptized Christians who fall away from faith still face hell? How can we be certain of our salvation? These crucial questions are explored, alongside key insights into dispensationalism, misunderstandings about the rapture, and the relational reality of heaven. ✨ The conversation also unpacks: The restrained New Testament view of hell as tragic loss, not eternal torment. Comfort from biblical texts like Romans and Isaiah for those struggling with faith or anxiety. The enduring connection between heaven and earth in biblical theology 👉 Whether you’re wrestling with questions about salvation, curious about the nature of hell, or seeking a deeper understanding of Christian eschatology, this episode offers clarity, hope, and encouragement. Got Questions for Tom? Go to: askntwright.com • Subscribe: https://pod.link/267142101 • Explore more: https://premierunbelievable.com • Join live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • Support the show: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Mike Bird and Tom NT Wright take us on a deeply personal journey through their denominational experiences in today's episode of the podcast. From Anglican roots to Catholic insights, they explore the rich tapestry of Christian traditions and reflect on how faith evolves across life’s seasons. 💡 Together, they tackle a listener's heartfelt dilemma: navigating faith within a family where religious backgrounds differ. Should you join the Catholic Church or embrace a Reformed tradition? Tom and Mike unpack this complex decision, emphasizing the role of conscience, community, and theological understanding in shaping one’s spiritual path. The discussion also dives into the transformative doctrine of justification, examining the interplay of faith, works, and the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. Unity among Christians and the ongoing sanctification process are central themes, offering fresh perspectives for anyone wrestling with denominational differences or seeking deeper theological insight. ✨ Highlights include: Tom Wright's reflections on growing up Anglican and its profound impact on his theology. Mike Bird’s vibrant denominational journey, from Baptist beginnings to his embrace of Anglicanism. A breakdown of Catholic and Protestant views on justification, faith, and works. The unifying power of the Holy Spirit in the global Church. 👉 Whether you’re exploring your own denominational identity, facing family faith tensions, or yearning for a better understanding of Christian unity, this episode is packed with wisdom to inspire and challenge you. 🎧 Tune in now, share with someone navigating their faith journey, and join the conversation! #AskNTWrightAnything #FaithAndFamily #DenominationalJourneys #HolySpirit #ChristianUnity #Justification #FaithAndWorks • Subscribe to the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast: https://pod.link/267142101 • Explore more shows, free eBooks & resources: https://premierunbelievable.com • Join live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • Online learning opportunities: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us worldwide: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the highly anticipated Season 2 premiere of the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast, Dr. Michael Bird joins legendary theologian Tom Wright for an inspiring deep dive into the historical foundations of Christianity. Together, they explore, why historical accuracy matters in understanding the Bible, unpack the literary tools used in scripture and reflect on the resurrection’s profound impact on time and identity . 💡 The episode also tackles tough questions about skepticism surrounding the resurrection, exploring common theories and the historical expectations of a Messiah. Whether you’re grappling with doubts or seeking to deepen your faith, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss! 👉 Have a burning question for Tom? Submit it now at askntwright.com and it could be featured in an upcoming episode! 🎧 Tune in, share with a friend, and join the conversation! #askntwrightanything #FaithAndHistory #biblicaltruth #resurrection #timetravel • Subscribe to the Unbelievable? podcast: https://pod.link/267142101 • More shows, free eBook & newsletter: https://premierunbelievable.com • For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom answers listener questions about his role as Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall Oxford, his work habits and love of classical music... plus a Christmas question or two. Originally Aired: 23 Dec 2021 • Subscribe to the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast: https://pod.link/1441656192 • More shows, free eBook, newsletter, and sign up to ask Tom your questions: https://premierunbelievable.com • For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From the archives: Tom answers listener questions about whether shrines are pagan, whether infant baptism is biblical, and how we can live in unity despite theological differences around sexuality. • Subscribe to the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast: https://pod.link/1441656192 • More shows, free eBook, newsletter, and sign up to ask Tom your questions: https://premierunbelievable.com • For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's episode features a special guest - renowned Australian Bible scholar, co-authored and friend of Tom's, Mike Bird. Together, they delve into their groundbreaking collaborative work, "The New Testament in its World: An introduction to the history, literature, and theology of the first Christians" which both combines and unpacks years of Tom's major study into this seminal volume. For more books written by Tom Wright and Mike Bird • Jesus and the Powers: Christian Political Witness in an Age of Totalitarian Terror and Dysfunctional Democracies (2024) https://shorturl.at/cwzBP • The New Testament in its World (2019) https://shorturl.at/BGLOX This episode originally aired on 6 Nov 2019 • Subscribe to the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast: https://pod.link/1441656192 • More shows, free eBook, newsletter, and sign up to ask Tom your questions: https://premierunbelievable.com • For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/courses • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tom offers advice to a listener who is moving away from Christianity because she believes the Bible seems to treat women as second class citizens. Another is an agnostic who has been praying for the war in Ukraine. Will God hear my prayers if I’m not even sure I believe? Originally Aired: 25 August 2022 • Subscribe to the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast: https://pod.link/1441656192 • More shows, free eBook, newsletter, and sign up to ask Tom your questions: https://premierunbelievable.com • For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tackling one of the biggest questions of all time, the problem of evil and suffering, in today's episode an atheist listener asks a question about free will and the problem of evil. Will it be possible for there to be another ‘fall’ in the new creation? And the hosts of the Libertarian Christian Podcast have some questions for Tom about living as Christians in today’s world. Originally Aired: Sept 2019 • Subscribe to the Ask NT Wright Anything podcast: https://pod.link/1441656192 • More shows, free eBook, newsletter, and sign up to ask Tom your questions: https://premierunbelievable.com • For live events: http://www.unbelievable.live • For online learning: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/training • Support us in the USA: http://www.premierinsight.org/unbelievableshow • Support us in the rest of the world: https://www.premierunbelievable.com/donate Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices