Unpacked with Skyler

In this episode Skyler interview Dr. Tom Wright on his newly published book Into The heart of Romans: A Deep Dive Into Paul’s Greatest Letter. Dr. Wright brings his fresh perspective from over 50 years of studying the letter of Romans in this book. He is the former Bishop of Durham and has taught at various schools such as Oxford, Cambridge, and McGill University. Currently Dr. Wright is the research professor emeritus of New Testament and Early Christianity at at St Mary’s college and Senior research fellow at Wycliffe Hall at Oxford.    NOTES: Into the Heart of Romans, book Romans 8 N.T. Wright website: www.ntwrightonline.org  and www.ntwrightpage.com/ www.zondervanacademic.com/

In this episode Skyler interview Dr. Sandra Glahn on her newly released book Nobody's Mother: Artemis of the Ephesians in Antiquity and the New Testament. Dr. Glahn brings her Biblical expertise and person experience to shed light on a misunderstood background and interpretation to what Paul means when he says, "women will be saved through childbearing" (1 Timothy 2:15). Dr. Glahn is professor of media arts and worship at Dallas Theological Seminary where she focuses a lot of her time teaching about first-century backgrounds.    NOTES: 1 Timothy 2 For 20% off (and free shipping) on Sandra's book click THIS LINK and type in the promo code IVPPOD20 at checkout. Sandra's Website: aspire2.com Twitter: @sandraglahn, @ivpress, @ivpacademic Dallas Theological Seminary

In this episode Skyler interviews Peter Gurry on the ancient Bible manuscripts, common myths, objections, and the science behind the Greek New Testament used in our English Bibles. Peter serves as the Associate Professor of New Testament at Phoenix Seminary and the Director of the Text and Canon Institute. He holds a Ph.d from the University of Cambridge and is leading expert in the field of textual criticism.  Notes: Phoenix Seminary Text and Canon Institute * Two Reasons There Are Variants in Our Copies of the Bible (article) Scribes and Scripture: The amazing story of how we got our Bible (book) Myths and Mistakes in New Testament Textual Criticism (book)

In this episode Skyler interviews John Marriott on the Christian deconversion. John serves on the research staff at the Center for Christian Thought at Biola University, and adjunct professor in the department of philosophy. John's dissertation focused on deconversion from Christianity to atheism making him a leading voice in the area of understanding deconversion and a helpful resource to pastors, parents, and churches in today's world.  Notes: The Anatomy of Deconversion John Marriott website

In this episode Skyler interviews David L. Rowe on the Latter-Day Saints and how Christians can have better conversations with them. David served as professor and  dean of spiritual life at Salt Lake Theological Seminary, before transitioning to the dean of facilitators at The Vine Institute. In this interview David shares his wealth of knowledge and heart for the Latter-Day Saints.  Notes: I Love Mormons: A New Way to Share Christ with Latter-Day Saints The Vine Institute

In this episode Skyler interview Disciple-Making coach John King about the global movement of disciple-making and it's roots with the Discovery Bible Study.  John transition from pastoral ministry into disciple-making coach shortly after a conversation with David Watson about their disciple making efforts that resulted in over 100,000 churches planted in 167 nations. This led John to ask the simple question: “Why not in Murfreesboro? Why not in Tennessee?” In this interview John gives us the challenge to ask the same question of where we live: "Why not in ..."  Links Email: johnkennethking@gmail.com Twitter: @johnkking John's Blog Dmmcoach Final Command Ministries Renew 

In this episode Skyler interview Biblical scholar and Anglican priest Michael Bird about his most recent book, Seven things I Wish Christians Knew About the Bible.  Michael is the Academic Dean and Lecturer in Theology at Ridley College in Melbourne, Australia.  He has authored a number of books including one with N.T. Wright called the New Testament in its World. In this interview Michael shares his heart and hopes for giving Christians an mature view of the Bible in a readable format.  Links Seven Things I Wish Christians Knew About the Bible Newsletter Twitter @mbird12 Ridley College

In this episode Skyler interview New Testament scholar Michael Gorman about the Apostle Paul's vision for the spirituality of the Cross from his rerelease of his book Cruciformity: Paul's Narrative Spirituality of the Cross. Michael is the Raymond E. Brown Chair in Biblical Studies and Theology at St. Mary Seminary and University and a specialist in the theology and spirituality of the apostle Paul, the Gospel of John, the book of Revelation, and the missional interpretation of Scripture. Quote:  "Cruciformity is the all-encompassing, integrating narrative reality of Paul’s life and thought, expressed and experienced in every human dimension of his being, bringing together the diverse and potentially divergent aspects of that existence." (p. 371) Links Michael Gorman Cruciformity: Paul’s Narrative Spirituality of the Cross, 20th Anniversary Edition

In this episode Skyler interview with New Testament scholar Ben Witherington about the origins of the Reformation, Christian origins in America, and theological problem from a rerelease of his book "The Problem with Evangelical Theology." Ben is Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. He has althored over 60 books including a commentary on every book in the New Testament.  He brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom for biblical scholarship and down to earth Christian living. Links Ben Witherington III The Problem with Evangelical Theology: Testing the Exegetical Foundations of Calvinism, Dispensationalism, Wesleyanism, and Pentecostalism, Revised and Expanded Edition 

In this episode Skyler talks with Ruth Jackson about how to disagree without being disagreeable, and why we should welcome conversations with those we disagree with.  Ruth is a co-host with Premier Christian Radio and the Unbelievable Podcast where they specialize in bringing together Christians and non-Christians to discussion various topics.  She has also launched a Podcast with Alister McGrath called The C.S. Lewis Podcast.  Links Ruth Jackson (Twitter) Justin Brierley (Twitter) Premier Christian Radio Unbelievable Podcast Ask N.T. Wright Anything The C.S. Lewis Podcast The Daisy Chain Will Our Children Have Faith? by John Westerhoff III Tactics, by Gregory Koukle Podcasts, Books, and Resources Where is God in all the suffering? Amy Orr-Ewing and Jon Steingard Unbelievable? God, Gay Christians and the Church - Brandan Robertson and David Bennett The Big Conversation Unbelievable the Conference Alpha

In this episode Skyler interviews Alan Robertson from Duck Dynasty.  Alan helped his family with the family business (Duck Commander) making duck calls until he left to serve as a pastor at White's Ferry Road Church in West Monroe, LA. In 2012 he entered the rest of the Robertson family on the A&E Duck Dynasty show. Since the show last aired Alan has co-authored two books and travels frequently to speak on various topics. In this episode Skyler and Alan talk about his story, marriage, ministry, and the open doors God's brought their way  as a result of the show. Links Alan Robertson (Website) Unashamed with Phil & Jase Robertson (Podcast) White's Ferry Road Church A New Season (Book) The Duck Commander Devotional for Couples  (Book)

In this episode Skyler interviews Danny Davis a rural pastor, Bible college professor, and rural church revitalization coach. Danny  has planted and revitalized churches in South Africa and the USA. He holds a Doctor of Education in Transformational Leadership and is the author of "Rural Church Turnaround: Real Life Experiences of Rural Pastors and Lay-Leaders." In this episode Skyler and Danny talk about his story, God's work of revitalization, and our role in the process. Rural Church Turnaround (website) Rural Church Turnaround: Real Life Experiences of Rural Pastors and Lay-Leaders.

In this episode Skyler talks with Dr. Andy Bannister about Islam and Christianity. Andy is a respect and sought after Christian scholar and speaking on Islam, Atheism, and apologetics. He serves as the director of Solas and is an adjunct speaker with the Ravi Zacharias International Ministry. On this episode Andy helps us to understand the complexities if Christians and Muslims worship the same God. Links Andy Bannister St. Patricks Bad Analogies Solas Center For Public Christianity Ravi Zacharias International Ministry The Atheist Who Didn't Exist (Book) Do Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God?

In this episode Skyler talks with Jon Good from International Justice Mission (IJM) about the issue of modern day slavery and worldwide injustice. Jon serves as one of IJM’s church mobilization directors and helps equip churches by sharing the biblical call to justice, introducing churches to IJM’s ministry and mobilizing churches to engage in local and global justice ministries. Links Jon Good International Justice Mission Global Slavery Index Central Illinois Prevention of Abuse Become a Freedom Partner For Churches The Good News about Injustice (Book) Notes IJM's mission is to protect the poor from violence by partnering with local authorities to rescue victims, restore them back to health, retrain perpetrators, and restore the public justice system. Over 40 million people are enslaved today. Two main forms of slavery today: Forced Labor and Sex Trafficking. The 10-80-10 rule: in a corrupt system about 10% are corrupt and in it for the wrong reason, 10% are good and in it for the right reason, and 80% in the middle will go in the direction of whomever is getting the affirmation and the benefits.  

As many families are now experiencing the new advent of education at home is not simple and easy as it sounds. There are many factors and challenges that go into it, but at the same time there is also one of the greatest opportunities for parents, caregivers, and educators for discipleship. In this interview Skyler talks with Shelia Maia about a recent workshop that Rise City Church of Gresham, Oregon did to help resource parents with practical and biblical insights to navigate and redeem this new normal of distance learning. Links Rise City Church Tiny Theologians The Daily Grace Co Four Common Challenges Families Are Facing with Distance Learning Trying to recreate a 6 hour school day at home. An overabundance of screen time. Figuring out what to do with your kid if the parent(s) have to work. Figuring out how to balance working from home and doing home education.  Three Opportunities Presented to Families with Distance Learning A ministry opportunity for homeschool families and/or families with stay at home parent(s): offer support to working parent(s) by offering to open up your home for their kids to have a safe and supervised place for study or learning along with your kids.  Distance learning allows families greater flexibility for education. Pick the time that works best for you. The Discipleship opportunity is GREAT! Use this time to shepherd your kids heart toward Christ. Tips for educating and learning successfully  Create a vision statement for this school year. Be on the lookout for and acknowledge the Christlike character in everyday moments. Have them teach it back to you. Be your children biggest cheerleaders.  Be mindful of the struggle for the stress and struggle this season has on everyone. Set an example for how you expect your kids to act and respond (more will be caught than taught) Assume the best about your parents. Do the hard things first. Eat good snack and get adequate movement.

In this episode Skyler interviews Jon Sanders on life and ministry in rural America. Jon served as the Lead Pastor of The RESCUE Church in South Dakota. And had been considered a leading voice in the rural church arena. Jon hosts the Small Town Big Church Podcast that seeks to encourage rural pastors with the message that God delights in doing BIG things in small places. In addition to his passion for the rural church, Jon also serves as firefighter/EMT, and the regional director of the Rural Matter Institute. Links Rural Matters Institute Small Town Big Church (Podcast) Small Town Big Church (Website)

In this interview Skyler interview Dr. Gerry Breshears spiritual warfare, demons, and Jesus.  Gerry is a professor of Theology at Western Seminary, on the Board of Directors for the Bible Project, and an Elder at Grace Community Church in Oregon. Gerry I spent countless hours researching and teaching on this topic. [NOTE: Our Podcast will be releasing episodes every other week] Spiritual Warfare Couse 3 Crucial Questions about Spiritual Warfare, by Clint Arnold Gerry Breshear (Website) Western Seminary Spiritual Warfare takes place in ... In the World: The narrative of what will make you successful In the Flesh: Our selfish desires. And the Devil: demonic beings working through attachment to attack. Most common form in the Western world is accusation and deception. Method of Attack  Have an assessment of things in your life (physical, emotional, relation, and demonic) Gerry listens for an accusing voice, an oppressive presence, and if one has had involvement in spiritualism and occultism. Understand your foundation and authority you have in ChristYou're in the kingdom of light (Colossians 1), not in the kingdom of darkness. Jesus has disarmed the the demonic forces at the cross (Colossians 2), they have no authority over you. Act like Jesus  Speak Scripture out loud. Tells whatever it is to go away because you are a Son of the Most high God.  Focus 100% of your attention upon Jesus. Things you must know about Spiritual Warfare Demons are real (contrary to Western opinions) Our Problems as people are Multimodal, so see... a doctor to check on your physical health  a go to Christian counselor to check on your psychological health a pastor to check on your spiritual health a spirit led friend to help you discern your inner world 

In this episode Skyler shares some of his own research and questions on the Apocalyptic literature in the Bible following his interview with Dr. Shane Wood (Episode 13). He looks at questions such as "Why do churches shy away from Apocalyptic parts of the Bible? Where did this literature come from? What do people actually believe about it? and why did God speak in Apocalypses? Skyler is the pastor at the Christian Church of Litchfield in Litchfield, IL and a student at Lincoln Christian University where he is finishing up his Master in the New Testament. Links: My Strange Bible: Shane Wood The Bible Project: Apocalypse Series Brent Sandy, Plowshares and Pruning Hooks: Rethinking the language of Biblical Prophecy and Apocalyptic Notes: Apocalyptic Passages: Isaiah 24–27; 33; 34–35; Jeremiah 33:14–26; Ezekiel 38–39; Joel 3:9–17; Daniel 7-12; Zechariah 12–14; Matthew 24; Mark 13; 2 Thessalonians 2; Revelation. The Fall out of Apocalyptic preaching in America happened through three cultural movements The rise of Higher criticism Comparative study of religion Darwinism What is an Apocalypse?  The literature existed for about 700 years. Distinctly Jewish and Christian literature. Was seen with great skepticism after a heretical group used Revelation to espouse new teaching. SBL Definition: "a genre of revelatory literature with a narrative framework, in which a revelation is mediated by an otherworldly being to a human recipient, disclosing a transcendent reality which is both temporal, insofar as it envisages eschatological salvation, and spacial insofar as it involves another, supernatural world."Skyler's paraphrase: "Apocalyptic literature is a writing style that reveals hidden truth in story form. Revealing future salvation and the supernatural world to humans by a heavenly messenger." Five theme of Apocalyptic literature: Dualism Symbolism Narrative Cosmic End Future Salvation Six functions of Apocalypses A call to worship Comfort that God is in control Insight into cosmic issues Hope for the persecuted Assurance of God’s victory Call to purity

In this interview Skyler interview Dr. Tremper Longman III on one of the most cited passages in the Old Testament about the End of the World. Tremper is a sought after Bible scholar who has been involved with translating several english translations, author numerous popular level as well as scholarly level books and commentaries. Tremper earned his PhD at Yale University and has recently retired from his full time teaching position at Westmont College -- but he continues to write and lecture. Links Tremper Longman III Daniel (the NIV Application Commentary) How to Read Daniel Bible and the Ballot Confronting Old Testament Controversies  Notes The Old Testament uses highly symbolic language and numbers. Apocalypses communicate to the reader (without plotting it out on a calendar) that God is in control and evil will not last forever. Daniel 9 is clear on the big points, but not our specific points. Old Testament prophecy may have near term fulfillment and often further fulfillment  in Christ.  We need caution when interpreting the Bible and respect toward differing opinions.

In this interview Skyler interview Dr. Tyler Stewart on the time between the Old and New Testament often referred to as the Second Temple period. This is an often overlooked period that has tremendous impact on how we understand the Bible. Without it, it would be nearly impossible to enter the world of the New Testament. Dr. Tyler Stewart earned his PhD at Marquette University and is currently teaching New Testament at Lincoln Christian University. Tyler's Recommended Resources NRSV Harper Collins Study Bible Matthias Henze, Mind the Gap Warren Carter, Seven Events that Shaped the NT World Steve Mason, Josephus and the New Testament James VanderKam, Dead Sea Scrolls Today Kenneth Schenk, A Brief Guide to Philo Notes: 1. Three Biggest discoveries Learning Greek and Hebrew The Unity of the Bible Studying Second Temple Judaism 2. Four Reasons why we shouldn't call the period between the Old & New Testament years of silence This is a period of explosive literary production. The Jews then thought God was still speaking to his people.  This was an important time for the formation of the Old Testament. 3. Five Major events Death of Alexander the Great (323 BCE) Ptolemaic Rule (301–200 BCE); the Old Testament is translated into Greek  Seleucid Rule (200–167 BCE)  Hasmonean Dynasty (166–63 BCE) Roman Rule (63 BCE)