The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Ever stared at your Bible and thought, "Sprinkle? Pour? Is this a holy contradiction or just ancient wordplay?" Buckle up, truth-seekers—welcome to Episode 183 of The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast, where we turn Leviticus' ritual riddles into revelations of grace. From The Big Book of Bible Difficulties by Norman Geisler and Thomas Howe comes today's head-scratcher: Leviticus 3:2 commands priests to "splatter the blood against all sides of the altar" (NLT), while Deuteronomy 12:27 insists on "pour[ing] it out on the altar." Contradiction in the peace offering? Spoiler: Nope! Drawing on Jewish sage Maimonides, we unpack the two-step choreography—sprinkle the top (zārak: scatter like divine confetti), pour the base (shaphak: full release)—no conflict, just sacred precision. It's like two camera angles on a steakhouse sizzle: dash for flavor, pool for depth. But we don't stop at harmonizing verses. Dive deeper with P.M. Venter's "Atonement through Blood in Leviticus" (Verbum et Ecclesia, 2005), revealing blood as life's costly bridge in priestly reconciliation: "Sacrifice and blood are the main means…for reconciling man with God."  Then, Joshua M. Vis's Duke dissertation (The Purification Offering of Leviticus and the Sacrificial Offering of Jesus, 2012) flips the script: Blood purges both sanctuary and sinner in a two-stage dance—from guilt to forgiveness (Lev 4–5), sanctuary cleanse to purity (Lev 16)—echoing Hebrews' heavenly offering. Bridge to today with David Mathis (Desiring God, 2017) on Paul's "poured out" life (Phil 2:17) as modern peace offering, Cornelis van Dam's burnt-offering parallels (1991), and Daniel J. Brege's eucharistic ties in Hebrews (2002): From external sprinkles to internal feast—tabernacle to Lord's Table. Messy mercy? Absolutely. But every drop points to Christ's ultimate pour-out. Laugh at dad-joke analogies (IKEA holiness, anyone?), ponder your "splatter" stories, and emerge with faith fortified. Perfect for skeptics, seekers, and Sunday school pros. Listen now—grace awaits in the gore! Subscribe, rate, and share your Bible "gotcha" at bibledifficultiesandanswers@gmail.com. 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  Venter, P.M. "Atonement through Blood in Leviticus." Verbum et Ecclesia 26(1), 2005, pp. 275-279. Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/266529232_Atonement_through_blood_in_Leviticus Vis, Joshua M. "The Purification Offering of Leviticus and the Sacrificial Offering of Jesus." PhD Dissertation, Duke University, 2012. Available at: https://www.academia.edu/71249791/The_Purification_Offering_of_Leviticus_and_the_Sacrificial_Offering_of_Jesus Mathis, David. "Poured Out for Others: The Meaning of a Sacrificial Life." Desiring God, 2017. Available at: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/poured-out-for-others Brege, Daniel J. "Eucharistic Overtones Created by Sacrificial Concepts in the Epistle to the Hebrews." Concordia Theological Quarterly 66(1), 2002, pp. 61-78. Available at: https://ctsfw.net/media/pdfs/bregeeucharistic.pdf van Dam, Cornelis. "The Burnt Offering in Its Biblical Context." Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary, 1991. Available at: https://canadianreformedseminary.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1991-Burnt-Offering.pdf

In this episode Lance Smith unpacks the apparent contradiction between Jesus' instruction to limit ministry to Israel (Matthew 10:5–6) and the later Great Commission to all nations (Matthew 28:19). He shows that the difference is one of timing and strategy—not a change of mind—describing Jesus' mission as a staged relay that begins with Israel and expands to the Gentiles. Drawing on examples from Matthew, Acts, Old Testament prophecy, and everyday analogies like farming and relay races, the episode traces how the gospel moved from Jerusalem to the ends of the earth and explains what that sequence teaches about discipleship and God’s timing 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  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/samaritans.html  Perriman, Andrew. "Why did Jesus instruct his disciples not to preach the kingdom of God to Gentiles and Samaritans?" Postost.net, November 2015. https://www.postost.net/2015/11/why-did-jesus-instruct-his-disciples-not-preach-kingdom-god-gentiles-samaritans SendU Blog. "Why did Jesus prohibit his disciples from going to the least reached?" March 7, 2019. https://sendublog.com/2019/03/07/why-did-jesus-prohibit-his-disciples-from-going-to-the-least-reached/ Robinson, Laura. "Mission, Jews, and Gentiles in the Gospel of Matthew." PhD Dissertation, Duke University, 2010. https://dukespace.lib.duke.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/d8f0d12e-0ca2-4f1e-a861-356e2d360d2b/content Staples, Jason. "Matthew's 'Lost Sheep of the House of Israel'." Substack, October 2024. https://jasonstaples.substack.com/p/matthews-lost-sheep-of-the-house  Konradt, Matthias. "Israel, Church, and the Gentiles in the Gospel of Matthew." (Referenced in Robinson). Pentecost, J. Dwight. "The Great Commission." Doctrine.org. https://doctrine.org/the-great-commission Bauer, David R. "Jesus and the Jewish Commission." Anglican Compass. https://anglicancompass.com/jesus-and-the-jewish-commission/ "How do we reconcile John 4:39-40 with Matthew 10:5-7?" Biblical Hermeneutics Stack Exchange. https://hermeneutics.stackexchange.com/questions/66627/how-do-we-reconcile-john-439-40-with-matthew-105-7 "Is The Great Commission Not For The Church Because It's In Matthew?" Believer.com. https://believer.com/frequently-asked-questions/is-the-great-commission-not-for-the-church-because-its-in-matthew Matthew 10:5 Verse-by-Verse Commentary. StudyLight.org. https://www.studylight.org/commentary/matthew/10-5.html

In the finale of the 20-week series on J. Steve Miller's Faith That's Not Blind, Lance Smith walks through the epilogue and appendices, highlighting Miller’s challenge called the "priority of the search" and the black swan analogy that disrupts naturalistic certainty. The episode emphasizes faith as an active, lifelong pursuit of truth, explains how multiple lines of evidence can stack and mutually support one another, and recommends practical ways to rate and tally arguments. Smith also points listeners to further resources in the appendices and issues a personal call to keep learning, seeking, and allowing the search to shape a deeper, growing 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  Plantinga, A. (n.d.). Two Dozen (or so) Theistic Arguments. Available at: https://appearedtoblogly.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/plantinga-alvin-22two-dozen-or-so-theistic-arguments221.pdf Craig, W. L. Suggested Readings List: https://www.reasonablefaith.org/christian-apologetics-books Apologetics Book Directory: https://apologetics315.com/2009/11/recommended-apologetics-book-directory/ Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: https://plato.stanford.edu/ Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy: https://iep.utm.edu/ Philosophy of Religion Journal List: http://philosophyofreligion.org/?page_id=488

Episode 180 unpacks Exodus 34:20 and the curious law about firstborn donkeys—why a lamb can substitute, when the donkey must be killed, and how later law allows monetary redemption. Host Lance Smith explains the theological principle that the firstborn belong to God, explores historical and practical reasons for the changing method from livestock to silver, and connects the ritual to themes of substitutionary redemption and devotion. 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  Fraser, Andrew. "Exodus 34: Covenantal Ethnotheology and the (Re-)Birth of the First Holy Nation." The Occidental Quarterly, vol. 16, no. 3, Fall 2016, pp. 71-80. Frankel, Rabbi Dr. David. "Laws of the Firstborn: How They Were Connected to the Tenth Plague." TheTorah.com, 2023. https://www.thetorah.com/article/laws-of-the-firstborn-how-they-were-connected-to-the-tenth-plague Danam, Gnanadas. "The Sacrifice of the Firstborn in the Hebrew Bible." PhD thesis, University of Leeds, 2018. https://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/id/eprint/21729/1/The%20Sacrifice%20of%20the%20Firstbron%20in%20the%20Hebrew%20Bible.pdf "Exodus 34:20." StudyLight.org Commentary. https://www.studylight.org/commentary/exodus/34-20.html "Morning Musing: Exodus 34:19-20." The-Nexus.blog, October 22, 2024. https://the-nexus.blog/2024/10/22/morning-musing-exodus-3419-20/ "Meaning of Exodus 34:20." Bible.art. https://bible.art/meaning/exodus-34:20

Hey there, scripture fans! In episode 179 Lance Smith explores apparent discrepancies in the lists of the twelve apostles across Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Acts. He explains why names like Thaddeus, Judas son of James, Simon the Canaanite, and Simon the Zealot actually refer to the same people through nicknames, language shifts, and oral memory, showing these variations confirm authenticity rather than contradiction. 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/apostles.html  "Who Were the 12 Apostles? The Complete Guide," OverviewBible (overviewbible.com/12-apostles/) "List of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus: Names & Facts," Encyclopædia Britannica (www.britannica.com/topic/list-of-the-Twelve-Apostles-of-Jesus) "Introducing and Ranking the Twelve Apostles," Nathan Albright, Edge Induced Cohesion (www.edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011/01/30/introducing-and-ranking-the-twelve-apostles/) "An Almost Definite List of the Twelve Apostles," Jonathan McLachlan, The Reign of God (www.thereignofgod.com/2020/06/13/an-almost-definite-list-of-the-twelve-apostles/)

In this finale episode of the 20-week series, Lance Smith and J. Steve Miller’s Exhibit 20 unpack Blaise Pascal’s famous wager—why fence-sitters might prudently ‘bet’ on God when the eternal stakes vastly outweigh finite costs. Through vivid analogies, personal stories, and practical steps for exploring faith, the episode treats belief as a reasoned choice, not blind faith, and asks whether living as if God exists is the wise course when evidence feels evenly balanced. 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  Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (n.d.). Pascal’s Wager. Available at: https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/pascal-wager/  Voltaire. (1764). Philosophical Dictionary. Schaefer III, H. F. (2007). Science Came of Age: A Christian View of Science and Origins. James, W. (1897). The Will to Believe and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy.

Host Lance Smith dives into Exodus 33:3 to tackle whether God really changed His mind about going with the Israelites after the golden calf incident. The episode explains how God’s warning was conditional, how Moses’ intercession led to God’s relenting, and why this is better seen as relational responsiveness—not contradiction. Listeners will come away with a clearer view of prayer’s power, God’s faithfulness, and practical hope when God seems distant. 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  Opade, Ochenia Faith. "Historical Grammatical Analysis of Exodus 33:1-6 as a Response to Contemporary Interpretations of Ornaments." Pharos Journal of Theology, Vol. 103, No. 2 (2022). Available at: https://www.pharosjot.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_42_vol_103_2__2022_nigeria.pdf  Kent, Hannah. "How Moses’ Intercession Changed the Trajectory of Israel (Exodus 33:12-23)." Belmont Undergraduate Research Symposium (2019). Available at: https://repository.belmont.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1003&context=burs  Stewart, Don. "Did Moses Persuade God to Change His Mind?" Blue Letter Bible. Available at: https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/stewart_don/faq/does-god-know-everything/24-did-moses-persuade-god-to-change-his-mind.cfm  Various Commentators. "Exodus 33:3 Commentary." StudyLight.org. Available at: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/exodus/33-3.html  "Exodus 33." Walking With Giants Bible Study Notes. Available at: https://www.walkingwithgiants.net/bible-study-notes/old-testament/exodus/exodus-33/  Lamb, David T. "The Immutable Mutability of YHWH." Southeastern Theological Review, Vol. 2, No. 1 (2023). Available at: https://www.sebts.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/STR_2_1_Lamb.pdf 

This episode examines the question: if people were raised from the dead before Jesus, how can the New Testament call him the "first" to rise? Lance Smith walks through examples from the Old and New Testaments—Saul and Samuel, Elijah and Elisha, Jairus’ daughter, Lazarus, and the saints after Jesus—to clarify the difference between temporary resuscitation and Jesus’ unique, permanent resurrection. Using passages like Matthew 9:23–25, Acts 26, and 1 Corinthians 15, the episode explains the theological meaning of "firstfruits" and why Jesus’ resurrection guarantees future glory for believers. 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/first.html  MacArthur, John. The MacArthur Study Bible: New Living Translation. Thomas Nelson, 2006. Available at: https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/macarthur-study-bible/  Bar, Shaul. "Resurrection in the Old Testament: Belief or Not?" Old Testament Essays 24, no. 1 (2011): 1-17. https://scielo.org.za/pdf/ote/v24n1/01.pdf  Yates, Gary E. "The Motif of Life and Death in the Elijah-Elisha Narratives and its Theological Significance in 1 Kings 17 - 2 Kings 13." Liberty University Digital Commons. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1011&context=lts_fac_pubs  Goeman, Peter. "Full List of Resurrections in the Bible." PeterGoeman.com. https://petergoeman.com/full-list-of-resurrections-in-the-bible/  McLatchie, Jonathan. "The Firstfruits Feast and the Case for the Resurrection." JonathanMcLatchie.com. https://jonathanmclatchie.com/the-first-fruits-feast-and-the-case-for-the-resurrection/  "Christ—the Firstfruits." Apologetics Press. https://apologeticspress.org/christthe-firstfruits-783/  Craig, William Lane. "Is There Historical Evidence for the Resurrection of Jesus? The Craig-Ehrman Debate." Reasonable Faith. https://www.reasonablefaith.org/media/debates/is-there-historical-evidence-for-the-resurrection-of-jesus-the-craig-ehrman  Craig, William Lane. "Old Testament Prophecies of Jesus’ Resurrection." Reasonable Faith. https://www.reasonablefaith.org/writings/question-answer/old-testament-prophecies-of-jesus-resurrection  "What does it mean that Jesus is the firstborn from the dead (Colossians 1:18)?" GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/firstborn-from-the-dead.html  Katz, David. "Gehazi and the Miracle Staff of Elisha." Jewish Bible Quarterly. https://jbqnew.jewishbible.org/current-issue/gehazi-miracle-staff-elisha/ 

In this episode Lance Smith examines pages 98–100 of J. Steve Miller’s Faith is Not Blind, arguing that positive cases for naturalism fall short compared to arguments for God’s existence. Highlighting Thomas Nagel’s critique of naturalism and other skeptical perspectives, the episode explains why natural explanations struggle with consciousness, morality, and the origin of the universe — and suggests theism offers a more comprehensive fit for those realities. Resources and readings are recommended, listeners are invited to rate the evidence, and the episode closes by preparing for the series finale next week. 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  Contemporary Christian Philosophy: A Primer. (2013). Bleeding Heart Libertarians. Available at: http://bleedingheartlibertarians.com/2013/10/contemporary-christian-philosophy-a-primer/  Kelly, E. F., et al. (2009). Irreducible Mind: Toward a Psychology for the 21st Century. Rowman & Littlefield. Nagel, T. (2012). Mind and Cosmos: Why the Materialist Neo-Darwinian Conception of Nature Is Almost Certainly False. Oxford University Press.

Host Lance Smith examines Exodus 32:14, wrestling with whether God truly changes his mind or expresses relational responses consistent with his unchanging character. Expect theological perspectives (Calvinist, Arminian, open theism), scholarly insights, and practical takeaways about prayer, intercession, and God’s mercy in Scripture. 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: New Living Translation. Thomas Nelson, 2006. Available at: https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/macarthur-study-bible/  Barrick, William D. "The Openness of God: Does Prayer Change God?" The Master's Seminary Journal, vol. 12, no. 2, 2001, pp. 221-246. Available at: https://tms.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/tmsj12g.pdf  Maier III, Walter A. "Does God 'Repent' or Change His Mind?" Concordia Theological Quarterly, vol. 68, no. 2, 2004, pp. 127-142. Available at: https://ctsfw.net/media/pdfs/wam3doesgodrepent.pdf  Chisholm Jr., Robert B. "Does God 'Change His Mind'?" Bibliotheca Sacra, vol. 152, no. 608, 1995, pp. 387-399. Available at: https://evangelicalarminians.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Chisholm.-Does-God-Change-His-Mind.pdf  Master, Jonathan. "Exodus 32 as an Argument for Traditional Theism." Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, vol. 45, no. 4, 2002, pp. 585-598. Available at: https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/files_JETS-PDFs_45_45-4_45-4-PP585-598_JETS.pdf  "Does God Change His Mind?" Reformed Theological Seminary. Available at: https://rts.edu/resources/does-god-change-his-mind/ 

Host Lance Smith examines the story of the woman who touched Jesus' robe (Matthew 9:20–22; Mark 5:25–29; Luke 8:43–45) to determine whether her healing was immediate or delayed. Comparing translations, cultural context, and priestly imagery, he concludes the Gospels agree the cure was instantaneous, explores the theological and social significance of her faith, and invites listeners to reflect on their own moments of reaching out. 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/immediately.html  BibleRef.com: What does Matthew 9:22 mean? https://www.bibleref.com/Matthew/9/Matthew-9-22.html  BibleRef.com: What does Mark 5:28 mean? https://www.bibleref.com/Mark/5/Mark-5-28.html  Keystone Victoria: When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. Mark 5:27 https://www.keystonevictoria.com/a-good-word/2017/6/6/when-she-had-heard-of-jesus-came-in-the-press-behind-and-touched-his-garment-mark-527  Harvard DASH: The Body and the Blood: A Theological Reinterpretation of the Hemorrhaging Woman https://dash.harvard.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/f36c33fc-85d9-4bf3-9b82-eaf3e7bd6cd8/content  Bethel Spark: The Markan Narrative of the Hemorrhaging Woman: Injustice Through Systems Then and Now https://spark.bethel.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1000&context=bible-theology-students  Watford, Joshua Michael. "The Priest's Garments and the Woman's Faith: An Examination of Mark 5:25-34 in Light of Wisdom of Solomon 18:20-25." Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, May 2, 2022.

In week 18 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, Lance Smith examines J. Steve Miller's section on why common objections to theism — like the problem of evil and the claim that a complex God is unlikely — are not insurmountable. The episode reviews thinkers such as Marilyn McCord Adams and Paul Draper and critiques Richard Dawkins’ argument from The God Delusion. Through reasoned responses from philosophers and scientists, the episode argues these challenges open further inquiry rather than closing the case against God, and points listeners to resources for deeper study. 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  Yancey, P. (1977). Where is God When It Hurts? Zondervan. Koop, C. E. (1977). Sometimes Mountains Move. Tyndale House. Lewis, C. S. (1940). The Problem of Pain. Geoffrey Bles. Lewis, C. S. (1961). A Grief Observed. Faber and Faber. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (n.d.). The Problem of Evil. Available at: http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/evil/  Miller, J. S. (2007). Richard Dawkins and His God Delusion. Wisdom Creek Press. Orr, H. A. (2007). A Mission to Convert. New York Review of Books, Jan. 11.

In this episode, Lance Smith explores Exodus 31:18 and the phrase "written by the finger of God," asking whether it implies a literal digit or serves as a metaphor. He examines anthropomorphism, ancient Near Eastern imagery, and related biblical passages to clarify how language about God conveys theological truth. Drawing on historical and scholarly insights, the episode argues the "finger of God" emphasizes God’s direct authority and personal involvement in giving the Ten Commandments, rather than a physical attribute. 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  Doak, Brian R. “Written with the Finger of God: Divine and Human Writing in Exodus.” Digital Commons at George Fox University, 2014. Available at: https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1223&context=ccs  Hundley, Michael B. “Anthropomorphisms in Ancient Israelite Religion.” Digital Commons at George Fox University, 2019. Available at: https://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1223&context=ccs Heiser, Michael S. “Anthropomorphisms in P.” The Naked Bible. Available at: https://drmsh.com/TheNakedBible/Anthropomorphisms%20in%20P.pdf  Harrington, Wilfrid J. “The Finger of God.” Grace in Focus, Faith Alone, 2018. Available at: https://faithalone.org/grace-in-focus-articles/the-finger-of-god/  “Anthropomorphism.” Jewish Virtual Library. Available at: https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/anthropomorphism  “What does it mean that the tablets with the Ten Commandments were written by the finger of God?” GotQuestions.org. Available at: https://www.gotquestions.org/finger-of-God.html 

Episode 170 examines whether Jairus’ daughter was dead or dying when he approached Jesus by comparing Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The hosts walk through the timeline, note Matthew’s summary style versus Mark and Luke’s sequence, and include scholar perspectives and humor. The conclusion: Mark and Luke show she was dying when Jairus reached Jesus and died en route, while Matthew compresses the account; the episode highlights faith as the central theme of the story. 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/Jairus_daughter.html   Gangel, Kenneth O. (2000). Holman New Testament Commentary: Matthew. Digital Commons @ Liberty University. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1233&context=second_person  Blomberg, Craig L. (1992). Matthew: The New American Commentary. Cited in Answers in Genesis. Seibt, Jim. (2024). Jairus’s Daughter in Three Gospels: Do the Differences Destroy the Truth of the Stories? https://drjimsebt.com/2024/03/04/jairuss-daughter-in-three-gospels-do-the-differences-destroy-the-truth-of-the-stories/  Vridar. (2011). Why Matthew Changed the Way Mark Wrote About Jairus’ Daughter and the Hemorrhaging Woman. https://vridar.org/2011/07/17/why-matthew-changed-the-way-mark-wrote-about-jairus-daughter-and-the-hemorrhaging-woman/  Lowery, David K. (2000). Raising Jairus’ Daughter. Bible.org. https://bible.org/seriespage/18-raising-jairus-daughter  Veritas Domain. (2016). Bible Contradiction? Was Jairus’ Daughter Alive When Jesus Was Approached? https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2016/06/07/bible-contradiction-was-jairus-daughter-alive-when-jesus-was-approached/  IsJesusAlive.com. (2020). A Look at an Alleged Contradiction in the Gospels: Was Jairus’ Daughter Alive When Jesus Was Approached or Was She Already Dead? https://isjesusalive.com/a-look-at-an-alleged-contradiction-in-the-gospels-was-jairus-daughter-alive-when-jesus-was-approached-or-was-she-already-dead/  BibleHub. Was Jairus’ Daughter Dead or Alive? https://biblehub.com/q/was_jairus'_daughter_dead_or_alive.htm  Answers in Genesis. Was Jairus’ Daughter Dead? https://answersingenesis.org/contradictions-in-the-bible/was-jairus-daughter-dead/ 

In week 17 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, Lance Smith examines Exhibit 17 from J. Steve Miller’s Faith That's Not Blind and discusses why many respected intellectuals—scientists, historians, and philosophers—find theism more plausible after careful study. Using Henry Schaefer III and other examples, the episode shows how reasoned, evidence-based journeys to faith contribute to a cumulative case for God. The episode clarifies this is not an argument from authority but an invitation to weigh the evidence: these informed theists challenge the notion that faith is anti-intellectual and encourage listeners to consider the arguments for themselves. 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  Dimitrov, T. (n.d.). 50 Nobel Laureates and Other Great Scientists Who Believe in God. Available at: http://nobelists.net  Varghese, R. A. (1984). The Intellectuals Speak Out about God. Regnery Gateway. Schaeffer, H. F. III. (2003). Science and Christianity: Conflict and Coherence. Apollos Trust. Talks available at: http://www.leaderu.com/offices/schaefer/lectures.html  Barrett, E., & Fisher, D. (1984). Scientists Who Believe: 21 Tell Their Own Stories. Moody Press.

Episode 168 examines the apparent contradiction between Exodus 20's ban on graven images and Exodus 25's command to make golden cherubim for the Ark of the Covenant. Lance Smith explores context, intent, and biblical examples to show why the prohibition targets idolatry, not divinely authorized symbolism. The episode surveys scriptural passages, Jewish tradition, archaeological evidence, and related cases (like the bronze serpent and the tabernacle artisans) to explain how the cherubim functioned as God‑ordered symbols pointing to His presence—not objects of worship. Conclusion: the command demonstrates a distinction between forbidden idols and symbolic representations authorized by God, emphasizing intent and worship rather than a blanket ban on imagery. 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  Ehrlich, Carl S. “Make Yourself No Graven Image”: The Second Commandment and Judaism. BibleHub: Why Does Exodus 25:18 Allow Cherubim? https://biblehub.com/q/why_does_exodus_25_18_allow_cherubim.htm Veritas Domain: Bible Contradiction? Is it OK to make images? https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2022/05/28/bible-contradiction-is-it-ok-to-make-images/ Catholic Stand: A Biblical Defense of Religious Images. https://catholicstand.com/a-biblical-defense-of-religious-images/ Trivial Devotion: Hammering Out Cherubim (Exodus 25:18). https://trivialdevotion.blogspot.com/2012/04/hammering-out-cherubim.html Patheos: Golden Calf & Cherubim: Biblical Contradiction? https://www.patheos.com/blogs/davearmstrong/2020/11/golden-calf-cherubim-biblical-contradiction.html Cambridge Core: Cherubim: (Re)presenting Transcendence. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/signs-and-society/article/cherubim-representing-transcendence/8D12F23A504B82C14E31C980A301169F TheTorah.com: The Cherubim: Their Role on the Ark in the Holy of Holies. https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-cherubim-their-role-on-the-ark-in-the-holy-of-holies

This episode examines the apparent contradiction between Old Testament animal sacrifices and prophetic and New Testament statements that God desires mercy, not blood. Lance Smith traces the biblical trajectory—from prescribed covenantal rituals to prophetic rebukes of hollow offerings and finally to Christ’s fulfillment of atonement. Listeners will get a clear, concise explanation of why sacrifices were given, why prophets rejected ritual without repentance, and how Jesus transforms sacrifice into mercy and a life offered to God. 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/desire.html  GotQuestions.org: https://www.gotquestions.org/animal-sacrifices.html  Boyd, Greg. ReKnew: https://reknew.org/2019/09/why-did-god-require-animal-sacrifice-in-the-old-testament/  Church Life Journal: https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/the-sacrifice-of-praise-and-animal-sacrifice/  Piper, John. Desiring God: https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/did-jesus-disregard-the-sacrificial-system  Pigott, Susan. All-Creatures.org: https://www.all-creatures.org/articles/an-tpr-biblicallit.html  Pharos Journal of Theology: https://www.pharosjot.com/uploads/7/1/6/3/7163688/article_31_105_5__2024.pdf  SAET: https://www.saet.ac.uk/Christianity/SacrificeandtheOldTestament.pdf  Journal of Religion & Film: https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2288&context=jrf 

In this episode of Bible Difficulties and Answers, host Lance Smith examines Exhibit 16 from J. Steve Miller’s Faith is Not Blind (pp. 89–91), sharing remarkable firsthand encounters with God that transformed the lives of Mortimer Adler and Bill Wilson. Adler’s intellectual belief becomes personal during a hospital prayer, while Wilson—co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous—experiences a life-changing vision and immediate sobriety. Miller argues these encounters provide empirical, lasting evidence that supports theism over naturalism, challenging skeptics who dismiss such experiences as merely emotional. The episode invites listeners to reflect on where they’d rate such testimony on a scale from 0 to 10 and to share their own transformative encounters. 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  Keener, C. S. (2011). Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts (Two-Volume Set). Baker Academic. Also at  http://www.craigkeener.com/tag/conversion-from-atheism  Hartigan, F. (2000). Bill W.: A Biography of Alcoholics Anonymous Cofounder Bill Wilson. Simon & Schuster. James, W. (1902). The Varieties of Religious Experience: A Study in Human Nature. Longmans, Green, and Co. Schaeffer, F. A. (various works, e.g., 1972). He Is There and He Is Not Silent. Tyndale House Publishers.

Episode 165 examines Exodus 24:10 and the question: can God be seen? Lance Smith walks through the Sinai theophany, the significance of the brilliant blue lapis lazuli pavement, and how partial visions of God’s glory fit with passages that say no one can see God and live. The episode connects Old Testament visions to the New Testament revelation in Jesus, explains the covenant context of the vision, and offers practical takeaways on recognizing God’s presence in creation, Scripture, and Christ. 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  Enduring Word. Bible Commentary: Exodus 24. Available at: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/exodus-24/  BibleRef. Exodus 24:10. Available at: https://www.bibleref.com/Exodus/24/Exodus-24-10.html  Aish. Vision of God of Exodus 24:10-11. Available at: https://aish.com/vision-of-god-of-exodus-2410-11/  Precept Austin. Exodus 24 Commentary. Available at: https://www.preceptaustin.org/exodus-24-commentary 

In this episode Lance Smith examines an alleged contradiction about how Jesus treated tax collectors and sinners versus how the church should treat unrepentant believers. Exploring passages from Matthew, Mark, and Luke, he explains the difference between Jesus' outreach to outsiders and Matthew 18's call for church discipline, arguing that the two are complementary: radical hospitality toward nonbelievers and loving accountability within the church. 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/publicans.html  GotQuestions.org. “Why did Jesus eat with sinners?” https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-with-sinners.html  Credo Magazine. “Jesus with Sinners at the Table.” https://credomag.com/2018/01/jesus-with-sinners-at-the-table-2/  BibleRef.com. “Matthew 18:17.” https://www.bibleref.com/Matthew/18/Matthew-18-17.html  Lowery, David. “The Biblical Basis for Church Discipline.” Liberty University Thesis. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2175&context=masters  Hutton, James. “Jesus Ate with Tax Collectors, Prostitutes, & Other Sinners, and We Can Too.” https://jameslhutton.com/2019/08/05/jesus-ate-with-tax-collectors-prostitutes-other-sinners-we-can-too/