On the Way with Max Botner: A Podcast of the Center for Bible Study

Max Botner

Come join us "on the way" as we learn to read Scripture faithfully. Support Dr. Botner's work with the Center for Bible Study by making your Amazon purchases through his storefront (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecenterforbiblestudy?ccs_id=a016a112-d9bd-42c6-bc88-b341521236bf&linkCode=ll2&tag=mbotner12-20&linkId=03e97064844be6458c7cda8ca79adae8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl Become a Member of the Center for Bible Study! 👉 https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e0

  1. 5D AGO

    How Did We Get The Bible? Thinking Theologically about the Formation of Text and Canon

    How did the Bible come to be? Why do Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Bibles differ? And what role did scribes, church communities, and the Holy Spirit play in shaping the Scriptures we read today? In this episode, Max Botner explores the formation of the biblical canon, the history of manuscript transmission, and the theological significance of textual variation. From the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls to debates over the Deuterocanonical books, you’ll discover how history, community discernment, and divine guidance together shaped the Bible.This conversation unpacks major questions in biblical studies:- How the Old Testament developed, including the Masoretic Text and the Dead Sea Scrolls- What textual variants and scribal practices reveal about transmission- How the New Testament canon emerged in the early church- Why apostolicity, orthodoxy, and catholicity mattered for canon formation- How different Christian traditions (Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox) came to have slightly different Bibles- The role of the Holy Spirit not only in inspiration, but in preservation and receptionRather than imagining the Bible as a book that “dropped from the sky,” this episode presents Scripture as a divine-human gift formed through centuries of faithful transmission. Understanding canon formation and textual criticism doesn’t weaken confidence in the Bible—it deepens it.Grab Your Copy of How Then Shall We Read? A Student's Guide to Interpreting the New Testament 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0802883842?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzmaxbotne-20&creativeASIN=0802883842&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.1Z0VC22LJXOFX&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin

    42 min

  2. FEB 16

    Were Luther and Calvin "Christian Nationalists"? A Conversation with Dr. Steven Tyra

    In this episode, we sit down with Steven Tyra to explore the powerful intersections of church history, eschatology, and Christian nationalism—and why historical theology matters more than ever in today’s political and cultural climate.Dr. Tyra shares how his academic journey began at Fuller Theological Seminary, where he developed a passion for historical theology and the Reformation. His research focuses especially on John Calvin’s eschatology, the doctrine of the interim state, and how Calvin’s theology has been misrepresented in modern debates about dominion and political power.We discuss:- Calvin’s theology of the future kingdom and why it challenges modern “dominion mandate” interpretations- How Christian nationalism often depends on particular eschatological assumptions- Why figures like Calvin and Martin Luther are frequently oversimplified in popular discourse- The historical and theological problems with contemporary Christian nationalist arguments- Calvin’s advocacy for refugees—and how his experience as an exile shaped his theologyDr. Tyra argues that many modern appeals to the “dominion mandate” misunderstand both Genesis and the Reformers. For Calvin, dominion is ultimately tied to a future eschatological reality fulfilled in Christ—not a present political conquest. This distinction has profound implications for how Christians think about power, nationhood, and public theology.Whether you’re interested in Reformation history, Christian nationalism, Calvin’s theology, or contemporary debates about faith and politics, this conversation offers careful historical insight and theological clarity.Dr. Tyra's Article "Babeling Nationalism" 👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/swtyra/overlay/1722447705115/single-media-viewer/?profileId=ACoAAA6UIcwBRC5Buy6AiWfYpLAb8d8rMDEXZqcDr. Tyra's Article "Christ Is Not the Shepherd of Wolves"👉 https://brill.com/view/journals/chrc/105/3-4/article-p429_10.xmlBecome a member of the Center for Bible Study! 👉https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e06Join the Join our Facebook Group for ongoing conversation about the Bible, live Q&A sessions, and great community. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/908391187019803

    52 min

  3. FEB 2

    Biblicism Isn’t Working: How to Interpret the Bible Faithfully

    How should we interpret the Bible—and what goes wrong when biblicism takes over?In this episode, Max Botner explores biblical interpretation, critiques biblicism, and offers a faithful, embodied approach to reading Scripture. Drawing on historical awareness, theological reflection, and lived practice, this conversation invites viewers beyond simplistic approaches and into a richer, more responsible engagement with the Bible.In this episode, we cover:- Why the greatest obstacle to biblical interpretation is failing to recognize that interpretation is always happening- A critique of biblicism and the distortions it introduces into reading Scripture- The myth of democratic perspicuity and why interpretation requires dependence on others- The importance of historical and cultural context in responsible exegesis- A four-part model for faithful, embodied biblical interpretation- The role of community, tradition, and self-awareness in reading the Bible well- How to hold together the divine and human dimensions of ScriptureGrab Your Copy of How Then Shall We Read? A Student's Guide to Interpreting the New Testament 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0802883842?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzmaxbotne-20&creativeASIN=0802883842&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.1Z0VC22LJXOFX&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asinBecome a member of the Center for Bible Study! 👉https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e06Join the

    38 min

  4. 12/29/2025

    Telling the Story of How We Got the Text of the New Testament: A Conversation with Rev. Peter Rodgers

    Become a member of the Center for Bible Study! 👉https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e06Join the Join our Facebook Group for ongoing conversation about the Bible, live Q&A sessions, and great community. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/908391187019803SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Prof. Peter Rogers discusses his Scribes series, which creatively introduces the world of early Christianity and textual criticism. The dialogue explores the significance of textual variants, the role of scribes, and the human element in manuscript transmission. Rogers emphasizes the importance of storytelling in making complex theological concepts accessible, while also addressing contemporary trends in textual criticism and the ongoing relevance of these discussions in understanding the Bible's transmission.About The Scribes SeriesThe Star of the East is Book 4 in Rodgers’s Scribes series. The earlier titles — The Scribes,The Sign of the Dolphin, and The Pelican and the Phoenix — are all available on Amazon KDP. Each of the volumes can be read on its own. This installment in the Scribes series is ideal for readers who love historical fiction rooted in scholarship, faith based narratives, and stories that explore the human side of theological debate. Rodgers offers an immersive, enlightening experience that reveals how ancient questions of unity and identity still resonate today. For review copies, interview requests, or additional information, please contact Peter Rodgers: peterrodg@gmail.comGet The Scribes 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Scribes-Novel-About-Early-Church/dp/1481022482/ref=sr_1_2?crid=157XPGXLIXE3W&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8Sb0qIFI0zamb5CXis8-nKC3uuRXRohTb7rMcmBRsbxrq1S8OlohSDzn3duBmcSWpAXW0IPnEjnI-JNiXfD-HjH-RoBfAh5Ri0MD51kG4ES9KOQeovwCB7D0QjAlLhnsHZX62dhpEkEhyzbEmh6ACyrnbYawGiXaJwUpV-3b7mS3H-pOTdzXkpjqCWY9EwUK7IOkyNs4tqjMV1e-GFGSDRu2nctks4keY0qzfRJVESo.1E0CM7GiXbpp7firh9vKdfaQkk9Uns3mSJIQvgRlJJE&dib_tag=se&keywords=peter+rodgers&qid=1766967105&sprefix=peter+rodger%2Caps%2C254&sr=8-2Get The Sign of the Dolphin 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Sign-Dolphin-Book-Scribes/dp/1499151209/ref=sr_1_1?crid=IXI52WJOFYZY&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.g6aSzYXtxiUy270nT0Ramw.h2ozBgxBJqylR5CDVjGmo8zY00-B7qpA5cAk93Ej6nY&dib_tag=se&keywords=peter+rodgers%2C+the+sign+of+the+dolphin&qid=1766967159&sprefix=peter+rodgers%2C+the+sign+of+the+dolp%2Caps%2C365&sr=8-1 Get The Pelican and the Phoenix 👉https://www.amazon.com/Pelican-Phoenix-Peter-Rodgers/dp/B09MYYX198/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1OE85FQUHX493&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PbPuAcykiNqTp-Q5UvjH8g.OrNO1DvCowqniI4Fv1Wf7-ralTHER5VpG-dNjQvVaoI&dib_tag=se&keywords=peter+rodgers%2C+the+pelican&qid=1766967215&sprefix=peter+rodgers%2C+the+pelic%2Caps%2C294&sr=8-1Get The Star of the East 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Star-East-Book-Scribes/dp/B0FYWM1KB2/ref=sr_1_1?crid=157XPGXLIXE3W&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8Sb0qIFI0zamb5CXis8-nKC3uuRXRohTb7rMcmBRsbxrq1S8OlohSDzn3duBmcSWpAXW0IPnEjnI-JNiXfD-HjH-RoBfAh5Ri0MD51kG4ES9KOQeovwCB7D0QjAlLhnsHZX62dhpEkEhyzbEmh6ACyrnbYawGiXaJwUpV-3b7mS3H-pOTdzXkpjqCWY9EwUK7IOkyNs4tqjMV1e-GFGSDRu2nctks4keY0qzfRJVESo.1E0CM7GiXbpp7firh9vKdfaQkk9Uns3mSJIQvgRlJJE&dib_tag=se&keywords=peter+rodgers&qid=1766967140&sprefix=peter+rodger%2Caps%2C254&sr=8-1Rodgers's articles 👉 https://fuller.academia.edu/PeterRodgers

    1h 8m

  5. 12/15/2025

    An Invitation to North American Indigenous Interpretation: A Conversation with Drs. Chris Hoklotubbe and Danny Zacharias

    Dr. Botner interviews Drs. Danny Zacharias and Chris Hoklotubbe on their new book: Reading the Bible on Turtle Island: An Invitation to North American Indigenous Interpretation. They discuss the importance of cultural context, the role of creation in Indigenous theology, and the concept of salvation as Jubilee. The conversation also addresses historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and emphasizes the need for asset-based theology that recognizes the strengths of Indigenous cultures. They advocate for the integration of Indigenous ceremonies into Christian worship, highlighting the freedom and creativity that can emerge from this approach. Get your copy of Reading the Bible on Turtle Island 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/1514007568?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzmaxbotne-20&creativeASIN=1514007568&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.187O2RHGHXS6E&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin Become a member of the Center for Bible Study 👉https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e06

    1h 6m

  6. 11/11/2025

    The Ten Commandments throughout the Ages: A Conversation with Dr. Sara Koenig

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Sara Koenig discusses her journey into biblical studies and her exploration of the Ten Commandments through the lens of reception history. She emphasizes the importance of understanding biblical law as both absolute and case law, inviting personal interpretation and application in modern life. The discussion covers various themes, including idolatry, the significance of God's name, the justice implications of the Sabbath commandment, and the nuances of the commandments against killing and coveting. Dr. Koenig encourages listeners to see the commandments as invitations to a deeper life with God and others, rather than rigid rules.Takeaways- Dr. Koenig's journey into biblical studies began with a passion for the Old Testament.- The Ten Commandments invite personal interpretation and application in modern life.- Biblical law can be seen as both absolute and case law, inviting deeper reflection.- Different traditions interpret the Ten Commandments in varied ways, affecting their application.- Understanding God's identity is crucial to interpreting the commandments.- The commandments emphasize love for God and neighbor as central themes.- Idolatry has evolved from physical representations to modern-day distractions.- Taking God's name in vain involves more than just speech; it reflects our actions.- The Sabbath commandment has implications for justice and societal well-being.- Coveting can lead to a lack of gratitude and contentment in one's life. Dr. Sara Koenig is Professor of Old Testament at Seattle Pacific University. Her area of research is reception history, studying how various texts in the Bible have been received, interpreted, and passed on throughout the centuries in various genres. She is passionate about hermeneutics, the literary features and ethical implications of the biblical text, and the way the Old Testament presents God. Grab your copy of The Ten Commandments throughout the Ages 👉 https://www.amazon.com/dp/0802882129?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzmaxbotne-20&creativeASIN=0802882129&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.187O2RHGHXS6E&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d_asin

    1h 2m

  7. 10/13/2025

    The Fourth Synoptic Gospel: John's Knowledge of Matthew, Mark, and Luke: A Conversation with Dr. Mark Goodacre

    Grab your copy of The Fourth Synoptic Gospel 👉https://www.amazon.com/dp/0802875130?linkCode=ll2&tag=onamzmaxbotne-20&creativeASIN=0802875130&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.187O2RHGHXS6E&ref_=as_li_ss_tl_asinIn this conversation, Dr. Mark Goodacre discusses his book, 'The Fourth Synoptic Gospel: John's Knowledge of Matthew, Mark, and Luke,' which challenges the traditional divide between the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) and the Gospel of John. He explores the similarities and intertextuality between these texts, arguing that John is not as independent as often thought. Goodacre delves into the structure of John's Gospel, the concept of the Messianic secret, and the implications of minor agreements between John and the Synoptics. He also addresses the identity of the beloved disciple and the Christological developments in John's writing, ultimately advocating for a paradigm shift in gospel scholarship that recognizes the interconnectedness of these texts.Dr. Mark Goodacre is Professor of New Testament and Christian Origins in the Religious Studies Department at Duke University. Check out his website 👉 https://markgoodacre.org/

    1h 2m

  8. 09/08/2025

    How Did They Read the Prophets?: A Conversation with Dr. Michael Shepherd

    Become a member of the Center for Bible Study! 👉https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e06Join the Facebook Center for Bible Study Group for ongoing conversation about the Bible, live Q&A sessions, and great community. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/groups/908391187019803In this engaging conversation, Dr. Michael Shepherd discusses his new book, which explores the interpretive nature of the Bible, particularly focusing on the prophets. He emphasizes that the Bible itself is a product of interpretation, with early biblical authors serving as its first interpreters. The discussion delves into the complexities of ancient interpretations, the relationship between the Hebrew text and its interpretations, and the significance of the New Covenant. Dr. Shepherd also highlights the interconnectedness of the Twelve Prophets and the transition from oral to written prophecy, providing valuable insights for modern readers.Key Takeaways- The Bible is an interpretive project itself.- Early biblical interpreters are the biblical authors.- Interpretation generates the Bible, not just transforms it.- Ancient interpretations can be valuable for modern readers.- The relationship between the Hebrew text and its interpretations is complex.- Isaiah connects to the Mosaic tradition in significant ways.- Jeremiah's text has two distinct versions with different theological implications.- Ezekiel discusses statutes that expose human inability to follow God's laws.- The New Covenant is a transformative relationship, not a mere renewal.- The Twelve Prophets are interconnected and should be read as a single composition.Grab your copy of How Did They Read the Prophets? 👉 https://www.amazon.com/How-They-Read-Prophets-Interpretations/dp/0802885411/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3SVVJW2EY25EC&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.7RyiZ6cfU3M6IKZNheMUQdL7tNpTnOc9G-x3zYVbNoA.iWD5M6CbRv2DweMz67S2JAhAaJbh7FvC_-7NaLM9KBM&dib_tag=se&keywords=how+did+they+read+the+prophets&qid=1757351136&sprefix=how+did+they+read+the+%2Caps%2C148&sr=8-1

    1h 8m
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About

Come join us "on the way" as we learn to read Scripture faithfully. Support Dr. Botner's work with the Center for Bible Study by making your Amazon purchases through his storefront (As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) 👉 https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecenterforbiblestudy?ccs_id=a016a112-d9bd-42c6-bc88-b341521236bf&linkCode=ll2&tag=mbotner12-20&linkId=03e97064844be6458c7cda8ca79adae8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl Become a Member of the Center for Bible Study! 👉 https://give.ministrylinq.com/App/Form/d96bbdb5-197e-4a2d-820c-e3e4e3683e0

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