Take 2 Theology

Michael Mott and Zach Hale
  • 5.0 (7)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

Take 2 Theology is a twice-weekly podcast hosted by Michael Mott and Zachary Hale, elders at Charleston Bible Church. Each episode explores Scripture, theology, and Christian living through thoughtful conversations, interviews, and the occasional friendly debate. Whether we’re walking through a book of the Bible, tackling a tough doctrinal topic, or drafting our favorite children’s Bible songs March Madness-style, our aim is the same: to think deeply about God’s truth and invite others to do the same.

  1. Cults | Is Jehovah’s Witness a Christian Denomination? Examining God, Christ, and Salvation

    4D AGO

    Cults | Is Jehovah’s Witness a Christian Denomination? Examining God, Christ, and Salvation

    Episode 2.86 In this episode, Michael and Zach apply the same standard used in the Mormonism discussion to another major movement: Jehovah’s Witnesses. The question is not about sincerity or moral seriousness. It is about theology. Does Jehovah’s Witness doctrine align with historic, creedal Christianity—or does it depart from it at a foundational level? We examine official Watchtower and JW.org sources on authority, the Trinity, the nature of the Holy Spirit, and the identity of Jesus Christ. Jehovah’s Witnesses explicitly reject Nicene Trinitarianism, deny the full deity of Christ, identify Jesus with Michael the Archangel, and describe the Holy Spirit as an impersonal force. Using their own New World Translation, we walk through key biblical texts—including Isaiah 42–48, John 1, John 17, Philippians 2, and Hebrews 1—to evaluate whether these claims cohere with Scripture. We also address distinctive teachings on salvation, the 144,000, the new birth, organizational exclusivity, and the nature of the soul. The cumulative question becomes unavoidable: if the identity of God, the person of Christ, and the structure of salvation are redefined, does the movement remain within Christianity—or does it constitute a separate religion using Christian vocabulary? The episode concludes by clarifying that the issue is not tone or intention, but doctrinal definition. By classical Christian standards, the differences are structural, not secondary. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/qb61zxXnEpw Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    45 min
  2. Joshua 8 | Serving the Lord in the Land: Covenant, Unity, and the Final Choice

    6D AGO

    Joshua 8 | Serving the Lord in the Land: Covenant, Unity, and the Final Choice

    Episode 2.85 In this episode, Michael and Zach conclude the book of Joshua by walking through chapters 22–24, where Israel’s response to God’s finished work takes center stage. After crossing, conquering, and dividing the land, the final question remains: How will God’s people live in the rest He has given them? Joshua 22 addresses a potential civil war sparked by an altar built by the eastern tribes. What appears to be apostasy turns out to be a misunderstanding rooted in a shared concern for covenant faithfulness. The tension reveals a crucial principle: unity without holiness is dangerous, but holiness without unity fractures the people of God. Joshua 23 records Joshua’s final address to Israel’s leaders. He calls them to courageous obedience, grounding his exhortation in both grace and warning. The same God who grants victory will also judge covenant unfaithfulness. The promises are sure—but they cut both ways. Joshua 24 closes at Shechem with covenant renewal. Joshua rehearses Israel’s history—from Abraham to Jericho—reminding them that their inheritance was entirely a gift of grace. Then comes the decisive call: “Choose this day whom you will serve.” Yet Joshua also warns that serving a holy God is not casual or automatic. The chapter’s repeated emphasis on “serve” presses the issue of loyalty, not sentiment. The book ends not with conquest, but with commitment. Rest in the land demands covenant faithfulness. God has kept every promise—now Israel must decide how they will live. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/7MkP-FTVOsQ Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    38 min
  3. Cults | Is Mormonism Christian? Defining Denomination, Doctrine, and the Divide

    FEB 19

    Cults | Is Mormonism Christian? Defining Denomination, Doctrine, and the Divide

    Episode 2.84 In this episode, Michael and Zach examine a foundational question: Is Mormonism a denomination of Christianity, or a distinct religion? The discussion moves beyond sincerity or moral character and focuses on theological definitions and historical continuity. They begin by clarifying key terms—what constitutes historic, creedal Christianity, and what defines a denomination. From there, the conversation analyzes LDS primary sources, particularly on the doctrine of God, the nature of the Godhead, and the concept of monotheism. While Mormonism uses Christian vocabulary, it explicitly rejects Nicene Trinitarianism and affirms three distinct divine beings united in purpose rather than essence. The episode also explores Joseph Smith’s restoration narrative, the claim of a Great Apostasy, and the logical implications of declaring historic Christian creeds “an abomination.” Further distinctions are examined in LDS teachings on pre-mortal existence, eternal marriage, exaltation, and the nature of salvation. Key questions addressed include: • What makes a group a “denomination” rather than a separate religion? • Is shared terminology the same as shared theology? • Can monotheism be redefined without altering Christianity’s foundation? • How does the LDS restoration claim reshape the entire Christian narrative? The conclusion is not rooted in polemics, but in doctrinal clarity: by its own authoritative teachings, Mormonism departs from historic Christianity at foundational points concerning God, Christ, and salvation. The disagreement is not secondary—it concerns the core of the faith itself. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/nLPVsd6obkA Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    40 min
  4. Joshua 7 | Dividing the Land: From Lot Casting to Lasting Promises

    FEB 17

    Joshua 7 | Dividing the Land: From Lot Casting to Lasting Promises

    Episode 2.83 In this episode, Michael and Zach walk through Joshua 18–21, a section often dismissed as tedious land surveys but loaded with theological weight. As the conquest narrative slows, the focus shifts from battle scenes to boundary lines—yet the central theme remains unchanged: Yahweh keeps His promises. Joshua 18 opens at Shiloh, where the tabernacle is established and the remaining tribes are confronted for their hesitation. Though the land has been subdued, Israel has grown slack in fully possessing what God has given. Through the casting of lots, the inheritance is formally distributed—Benjamin, Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Dan—each territory marking tangible fulfillment of ancient covenant promises. The episode highlights the structural bookends of this section: Caleb’s bold faith (Joshua 14), the hesitation of the Joseph tribes (Joshua 17), the sluggishness of the remaining seven tribes (Joshua 18), and finally Joshua’s quiet reward (Joshua 19). The contrast echoes the twelve spies: faith versus fear, obedience versus delay. Joshua 20–21 then move to the “finishing touches” of the land. The Cities of Refuge reveal a profound theology of justice, mercy, and substitution—where freedom comes through the death of the high priest, pointing forward typologically to Christ. The Levites receive no territorial inheritance, yet are scattered throughout Israel as a reminder that worship and instruction remain central in a decentralized, kingless nation. The episode culminates in Joshua 21:43–45—one of the theological high points of the book—declaring that not one word of the Lord’s promises failed. What appears mundane proves monumental. The dividing of the land is not administrative filler; it is covenant fulfillment in geographic form. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/t9RNimPBL28 Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    40 min
  5. Does Baptism Save? A Clear Framework for a Divisive Question

    FEB 12

    Does Baptism Save? A Clear Framework for a Divisive Question

    Episode 2.82 In this episode, Michael and Zach examine the doctrine of baptism using William Lane Craig’s carefully defined taxonomy, focusing not on mode or tradition, but on the central theological question: what, if anything, does water baptism actually do? The discussion begins by framing baptism as commanded, important, and normative for Christians—while also recognizing that disagreements over baptism, though real, are non-cardinal. From there, the episode walks through Craig’s two broad categories: the figuralist view, which sees baptism as symbolic only, and the realist view, which holds that saving realities are somehow present in the act itself. Under the realist umbrella, three increasingly strong models are evaluated: occasionalism, instrumental causation, and proximate causation. Each is assessed for biblical coherence, theological consistency, and historical pressure—particularly the early church’s reliance on exceptions such as the thief on the cross, baptism of blood, and baptism of desire. The episode then turns to Craig’s strongest exegetical argument from Acts, noting that water baptism and Spirit baptism never coincide in the narrative. This observation proves decisive in undermining all sacramental realist models, not merely the strongest versions. Infant baptism is also addressed, with attention to faith as a necessary prerequisite for baptism in the New Testament. The episode concludes by articulating Craig’s positive position: salvation is by faith alone, while baptism stands as the ordained culmination of conversion—an act of obedience, public identification with Christ, and entry into the visible church. Baptism does not save, but those who are saved are called to be baptized. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/EacK2AZXT6c Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    33 min
  6. Joshua 6 | Dividing the Land: Faithful Obedience, Partial Possession, and God’s Unfinished Work

    FEB 10

    Joshua 6 | Dividing the Land: Faithful Obedience, Partial Possession, and God’s Unfinished Work

    Episode 2.81 In this episode, Michael and Zach walk through Joshua 13–21, a section of the book that often feels tedious on first read but proves theologically rich on closer inspection. As Israel moves from taking the land to possessing it, the narrative slows down to show how God’s promises are fulfilled in real places, through real obedience—and real compromise. We examine Joshua’s advanced age and Yahweh’s command to divide land that has not yet been fully conquered, setting the stage for long-term faithfulness rather than immediate triumph. Caleb emerges as a living example of wholehearted trust in God’s word, while the allotments of Judah and the Joseph tribes reveal both courage and hesitation that will shape Israel’s future. Along the way, the text subtly shifts the storyline from Joseph to Judah, preparing the reader for kingship and pointing forward to Christ. Throughout the episode, we address key theological and biblical themes: • Why land is divided before it is fully possessed • Caleb as a model of persevering, word-centered faith • The significance of Judah’s prominence in the allotments • Partial obedience and its quiet but lasting consequences • How Joshua prepares the reader for the failures of Judges • God’s faithfulness despite Israel’s unfinished obedience The episode closes by showing that Joshua 13–21 is not about geography for its own sake, but about covenant faithfulness lived out over time. God keeps His promises—but His people must trust Him enough to walk in them fully. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/E-a1GXL9yuw Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    35 min
  7. From Psalms to Hymns: How the Church Learned to Sing Christ

    FEB 5

    From Psalms to Hymns: How the Church Learned to Sing Christ

    Episode 2.80 Why did the church move from singing only Psalms to writing and singing hymns—and was that shift faithful or dangerous? In this episode, Michael and Zach trace the history and theology of Christian hymnody, from the psalm-saturated worship of the early church to the rise of Christ-centered hymns, the Reformation divide, the golden age of hymn writing, and the modern praise movement. Along the way, we examine why hymns emerged in the first place, how they were used to teach doctrine and defend orthodoxy, and what was gained—and lost—as worship music changed over time. This is not a nostalgia tour or a critique for its own sake. It’s an attempt to answer a deeper question: what do our songs do to us? If worship forms belief, affections, and theology, then the church must think carefully about what it sings. Psalms anchor us in God’s Word. Hymns teach us to confess Christ clearly. Songs, for better or worse, shape the kind of Christians we become. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/-qx2wDD8CsE Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    50 min
  8. Joshua 5 | Victory, Failure, and the God Who Fights for Israel

    FEB 3

    Joshua 5 | Victory, Failure, and the God Who Fights for Israel

    Episode 2.79 In this episode, Michael and Zach walk through Joshua 9–12, a pivotal section of the book that contrasts Israel acting without Yahweh with Yahweh fighting for Israel. We examine Israel’s deception by the Gibeonites in Joshua 9, where careful reasoning replaces prayer—and obedience becomes costly but necessary. From there, the narrative turns to the southern and northern campaigns (Joshua 10–11), highlighting Yahweh as the true warrior who grants victory, commands obedience, and fulfills His promises over time rather than through a quick conquest. Along the way, we address key theological and historical questions: • Why Israel honored a deceptive oath • The meaning of Joshua’s long-day prayer • Divine sovereignty and human obedience in battle • Why “taking the land” differs from fully “possessing” it • How Joshua’s obedience models covenant faithfulness The episode concludes with Joshua 12’s king list, showing the scope of Yahweh’s victory and the unity of God’s people—east and west of the Jordan. The takeaway is clear: victory comes not from strategy or strength, but from dependence on the Lord who fights for His people. Find our videocast here: https://youtu.be/pxIEkAN7v00 Merch here: https://take-2-podcast.printify.me/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone⁠ License code: 2QZOZ2YHZ5UTE7C8 Find more Take 2 Theology content at http://www.take2theology.com

    40 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Take 2 Theology is a twice-weekly podcast hosted by Michael Mott and Zachary Hale, elders at Charleston Bible Church. Each episode explores Scripture, theology, and Christian living through thoughtful conversations, interviews, and the occasional friendly debate. Whether we’re walking through a book of the Bible, tackling a tough doctrinal topic, or drafting our favorite children’s Bible songs March Madness-style, our aim is the same: to think deeply about God’s truth and invite others to do the same.

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Mott and Zach Hale
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    234
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Michael Mott and Zach Hale
  • Show Website
    Take 2 Theology