Bible Study Podcast

Wes McAdams
Bible Study Podcast

Study the Bible with Wes McAdams. Whether you are a seasoned Christian or a new Christian, you will enjoy these Bible studies. Each week, Wes visits with various guests to study another biblical topic, exploring the relevance Scripture has for our lives today. Though the topics vary greatly from week to week, the goal of every Bible study is the same, learn to love like Jesus. These Bible studies are brought to you by Radically Christian and the church of Christ on McDermott Road in Plano, Texas. www.radicallychristian.com

  1. 19 MAR

    How Ethnicity and Race Affect the Way We Read the Bible

    In this episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast, Wes McAdams engages in a thoughtful conversation with Marcus Stenson about the complex topics of race, ethnicity, and how these factors influence the way we read and interpret Scripture. They explore the historical and societal constructs of race, emphasizing how the idea of race as a biological reality has been debunked, and how ethnicity relates more to shared cultural experiences. The conversation highlights how societal perceptions shape our understanding of Scripture and why it's essential to acknowledge and embrace diverse perspectives. Marcus shares his personal experiences, detailing how his ethnic identity has shaped his worldview and his approach to Scripture. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing biases and cultural influences when engaging with biblical texts. Both Wes and Marcus discuss the concept of reading Scripture through one's ethnic lens and argue that understanding these perspectives can enrich and deepen biblical interpretation. They also emphasize the importance of diversity within the church, asserting that unity doesn't mean uniformity but rather a celebration of varied experiences within the body of Christ. Marcus Stenson serves as the preaching minister at the Leander Church of Christ. Beyond his local ministry, he is actively involved in kingdom-focused nonprofits, including initiatives in Kenya and leadership development programs in the United States. His passion lies in fostering disciple-making cultures and advancing conversations about biblical understanding and unity within the church. Links and Resources: * Logos Bible Study Software (https://logos.com/radicallychristian) * Reading While Black by Esau McCaulley * Leander Church of Christ (https://leanderchurch.org) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

    1h 4m
  2. 12 MAR

    Good Preaching Helps Us Take God Seriously

    What would we be like if we really took God seriously? Today's discussion centers around a profound statement Billy Wilson made at a preacher's retreat: "It's a good thing none of us take God seriously. If we did, we would never stop laughing." He explains that understanding God and seeing the world through Jesus' eyes reveals the joke of human striving—how so much of what we chase after is futile in light of God's kingdom. Through biblical examples, Billy illustrates how Jesus infused his ministry with humor and deeper theological meaning, helping believers grasp the true nature of reality. The conversation shifts to preaching, where Billy critiques modern sermons that focus more on behavior modification than on revealing the magnificence of God. He argues that if preachers truly immersed themselves in knowing and proclaiming God, congregations would be drawn to the Lord, not just to self-improvement strategies. He recounts personal experiences, including a pivotal moment with Jim McGuigan, who helped redirect his faith simply by talking about God's greatness. The episode concludes with a reflection on John 17:3—"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." Billy emphasizes that eternal life isn't just about knowledge about God, but about truly knowing Him in a relational sense. If believers took this seriously, it would reshape their lives, anchoring them in joy, meaning, and unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty. In this episode, Wes McAdams welcomes Billy Wilson, a preacher with a rich history of ministry in Scotland, Australia, and the United States. Billy shares his personal journey, including his experiences with adoption, fostering, and his unexpected return to full-time preaching after swearing it off for years. His story highlights God's providence and the unique congregation in Mineral Wells that drew him back into pulpit ministry. Links and Resources: * Logos Bible Study Software (logos.com/radicallychristian) This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

    51 min
  3. 5 MAR

    What You Need to Know About Bible Translations

    Many people have asked, “What is the best translation of the Bible?” Some wonder if there are unreliable versions of the Bible that should be avoided. There are also questions swirling around about whether or not modern translations remove verses from the Bible. This episode of The Bible Study Podcast explores how translations work and how to be a better Bible student by understanding translation philosophy. Wes McAdams and guest Kevin Burr, a Greek and New Testament professor at Harding University, discuss the differences between word-for-word and thought-for-thought translations. They emphasize that no single translation is "the best," but rather that each has strengths and weaknesses. They also explain why some translations exclude certain verses based on older, more reliable manuscripts. The conversation highlights how language changes over time, making updated translations necessary for clarity and accuracy. Kevin Burr teaches Greek and New Testament at Harding University and previously served as a discipleship minister at King’s Crossing Church of Christ in Corpus Christi, Texas. He has nearly a decade of congregational ministry experience and now equips future ministers in biblical studies. Resources Mentioned: * Logos Bible Study Software (www.logos.com/radicallychristian) * From the KJV to the NIV by Jack P. Lewis * Seven Things I Wish Christians Knew About the Bible by Michael Bird This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

    1h 7m
  4. 19 FEB

    Does the Bible Mean More Than the Authors Intended?

    In this episode, Wes McAdams and Jared Saltz explore the significance of authorial intent in biblical interpretation. They discuss whether the meaning of a biblical passage is limited to what the human author originally intended or if the Holy Spirit inspired meanings beyond the author’s understanding. They also consider how modern readers can responsibly interpret Scripture without imposing personal biases. The conversation highlights the balance between respecting an author's intent and recognizing the fuller meaning that is the result of divine inspiration. They examine scriptural examples where biblical authors, prophets, and apostles interpreted past writings in ways that pointed to Jesus. They emphasize that while context and historical understanding are crucial, Scripture’s ultimate meaning unfolds through Christ and the broader story of God’s covenant people. Jared Saltz is the preacher at the Smoky Hill Church of Christ in Denver, Colorado. Previously, he was a bi-vocational minister and a Bible teacher at a Christian college. Jared has the unique ability to approach biblical studies from the perspective of an academic and a minister, making biblical interpretation accessible to everyday believers. Resources Mentioned * Logos Bible Software (https://www.logos.com/radicallychristian) * How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

    49 min
  5. 5 FEB

    Ask Better Bible Questions

    This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast continues the series on becoming a better Bible student. The conversation centers on how to ask better questions of Scripture and how cultural and generational trends affect biblical interpretation. The discussion highlights the importance of moving beyond a "what's in it for me?" mindset when reading Scripture. Garrett Best encourages humility in reading Scripture and emphasizes group Bible study for broader perspectives. Key concepts include the value of questioning, wrestling with the text, and seeking transformation rather than simply acquiring knowledge. Garrett Best, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Bible and Ministry and the Chair of the Department of Bible and Ministry at York University. Garrett has degrees from Freed-Hardeman University, Harding School of Theology (MDiv), and Asbury Theological Seminary (PhD Biblical Studies). He is passionate about helping students discover the depth and beauty of Scripture while fostering transformative learning experiences. Links and Resources: * Logos Bible Study Software (https://logos.com/radicallychristian) * The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt (https://amzn.to/4gubWo3) * Strange and Sacred Scripture by Matthew Schlimm (https://amzn.to/3WO6a9P) Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

    54 min
  6. 29 JAN

    The Problem with Proof-Texting the Bible

    This episode of the Radically Christian Bible Study Podcast is part of our, “How to Be a Better Bible Student” series. Today’s episode addresses the issue of proof-texting. What is proof-texting is? Why is it problematic? And how can we all approach Scripture with greater humility and accuracy. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding Scripture within its original context—recognizing historical, cultural, and literary factors. The conversation also touches on the need for humility when interpreting and teaching the Bible. Examples like Philippians 4:13, Jeremiah 29:11, and Hebrews 10:25 highlight how verses are often misused. The episode encourages readers to move beyond shallow interpretations and engage deeply with the broader biblical narrative. The guest, Boo Scott, preaches for the National Park Church of Christ in Hot Springs, Arkansas. With over a decade of ministry experience in youth and campus ministry, Boo brings a deep passion for preaching and teaching the Word of God. He emphasizes equipping others to be better Bible students and approaches ministry with humility and authenticity. Links and Resources: * Asking Better Questions of the Bible by Marty Solomon (https://amzn.to/4g9oKQs) * The Bema podcast (https://www.bemadiscipleship.com) * Logos Bible Study Software (extended free trial - https://logos.com/radicallychristian) Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

    49 min
  7. 15 JAN

    The Big Picture of the Bible

    In this episode, we continue our series, "How to Be a Better Bible Student" by discussing the importance of reading the Bible as a cohesive narrative rather than isolating it into disconnected parts. Wes McAdams and today's guest, Will Norrid, discuss the risk of reducing Scripture to a "recipe book" or a book of formulas, rather than engaging with its deeper, relational truths. The conversation delves into understanding Scripture as God’s overarching story, including creation, disruption (fall), salvation, and ultimate restoration. It highlights the need for reading contextually—not just the immediate verses but understanding the broader canonical and historical settings. Will advocates for seeing Scripture as a narrative that invites believers to participate in God’s eternal mission, moving beyond simplistic applications to embrace its transformative power. Will Norrid Will Norrid serves as the minister for the Lebanon church of Christ in Dresden, TN where he has worked for the last 21 years. In addition to preaching and teaching, he also serves in various roles in his rural community including writing a weekly spiritual life column that appears in print and online, speaking at community events, and volunteering with senior citizens groups. Will speaks and writes frequently on the intersection of faith and everyday experience, the value of reading in the spiritual life, and the importance of practicing faith in community. Links and Resources: * Logos Bible Study Software: https://logos.com/radicallychristian * The Sin of Certainty: https://amzn.to/3PyidnC Note: Some links may be affiliate links. Meaning, if you choose to buy something through these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.radicallychristian.com

    52 min

About

Study the Bible with Wes McAdams. Whether you are a seasoned Christian or a new Christian, you will enjoy these Bible studies. Each week, Wes visits with various guests to study another biblical topic, exploring the relevance Scripture has for our lives today. Though the topics vary greatly from week to week, the goal of every Bible study is the same, learn to love like Jesus. These Bible studies are brought to you by Radically Christian and the church of Christ on McDermott Road in Plano, Texas. www.radicallychristian.com

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