Trap Theology

Jason Ellerbee

3.5 (2)
Christianity
Weekly

Learning the deep truths of God through his Word and theology RSSVERIFY

Oct 20

When Scripture Shows You Where You’ve Missed It, Keep Walking Toward God

When the Israelites heard the law, they grieved over how badly they had missed the mark—but Nehemiah told them to celebrate: “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Jason connects that moment to the prodigal son’s return, then turns to a bigger question: how does God reveal himself across the Bible? He breaks down four features of biblical theology—systematization, historical context, progressive revelation, and its focus on Scripture—and explains how they help readers understand the Bible’s unfolding story. Along the way, he draws on the Cross Movement’s “Lord You Are” and shares practical encouragement for studying Scripture without letting conviction become discouragement. The Moody Handbook of Theology: https://a.co/d/01yM5T5R Christian Theology: https://a.co/d/0i1x5CC1 Basic Theology: https://a.co/d/0cfrHNSQ Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2x Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueeze Welcome and Listener Appreciation (00:00:08) Jason greets listeners, thanks them for their support, and asks them to share and subscribe. Inspiration: Finding Strength in God’s Joy (00:02:27) Jason reflects on Nehemiah 8:10, encouraging listeners to respond to conviction and hardship with God’s joy. Reconciliation and the Prodigal Son (00:03:50) He explains the passage’s context and uses the prodigal son to illustrate returning to God and celebrating reconciliation. Theological Lyrics: Cross Movement’s “Lord You Are” (00:10:56) Jason shares lyrics celebrating God’s majesty and reflects on knowing and becoming more like God. Introduction to Biblical Theology (00:13:49) Jason transitions to the teaching section and introduces biblical theology as the episode’s subject. Definition and Elements of Biblical Theology (00:15:14) He defines the method and outlines its elements: systematization, historical context, progressive revelation, and biblical focus. Application, Prayer, and Closing (00:20:56) Jason encourages continued Bible study, prays for listeners, and closes the episode.
Oct 13

“Be Anxious for Nothing”—What to Do When Anxiety Still Comes

Jason challenges the idea that strong faith should eliminate anxiety: even Jesus faced anguish in Gethsemane, and Paul’s instruction to “be anxious for nothing” assumes anxious thoughts will come. In this episode, Jason reflects on what to do when they arrive—rejoice, pray, and give thanks—and shares how gratitude helped his own worries fade. He also unpacks rap lines from The Ambassador’s “It's Yours” before surveying Old Testament theology methods, including Walter Kaiser’s promise theme and approaches that trace God’s design for Israel. The Moody Handbook of Theology: https://a.co/d/01yM5T5R Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2x Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueeze Welcome and listener shout-outs (00:00:11) Jason welcomes listeners, introduces himself, and thanks the audience for tuning in. Weekly updates and show support (00:00:56) He shares the Tuesday release schedule and asks listeners to share and subscribe. Motivation: Responding to anxiety with faith (00:01:25) Jason discusses why anxiety affects believers and explains that anxious thoughts can arise even amid faith and spiritual practices. Philippians 4: Rejoice, pray, and give thanks (00:06:35) He reflects on Paul’s guidance to bring worries to God through prayer and gratitude, receiving God’s peace. Personal experience with anxiety (00:13:09) Jason describes how gratitude, praise, and trust in God helped him through anxious thoughts. Theological lyrics: “As Yours” by The Ambassador (00:13:48) He highlights lyrics celebrating God’s love, faithfulness, hope, and power to end anxiety. Old Testament theology methods, part two (00:16:20) Jason introduces the episode’s teaching segment, continuing his overview of approaches to Old Testament theology. Formation of tradition and thematic dialogue methods (00:16:42) He explains approaches associated with Geerhardus Vos and Walter Brueggemann, including tradition’s development and theological dialogue. New biblical theology and canonical approaches (00:19:41) He summarizes Brevard Childs’s focus on biblical texts and Gerhard Hasel’s framework for canonical Old Testament theology. Promise as the theme (00:24:41) Jason describes Walter Kaiser’s approach, tracing God’s promises through Israel’s history, the Messiah, and the future kingdom. God’s design as the theme (00:24:41) He outlines a framework focused on deliverance, community, relationship with God, and life in the promised land. Closing reflections and prayer (00:27:43) Jason encourages continued study, thanks listeners, prays for their growth and peace, and signs off.
Oct 6

Are We Trading Our Freedom in Christ for the Comforts of This World?

Jason admits that procrastination can turn one missed episode into a month—and asks whether comfort, streaming, and football are crowding out the work God calls us to do. He connects that personal struggle to lyrics from Christian hip-hop group Nfrty, then shifts to a practical tour of five approaches to Old Testament theology, including covenant-focused, topical, and diachronic methods. Along the way, Jason names theologians such as George Lorenz Bauer, Chester K. Lehman, Walther Eichrodt, John L. McKenzie, and G. von Rad, and encourages listeners to explore how different methods can deepen their study of Scripture. The Moody Handbook of Theology: https://a.co/d/01yM5T5R Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2xj Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueeze Opening and Welcome (00:00:12) Jason welcomes listeners and introduces Trap Theology. Inspiration: Choosing God Over Worldly Comfort (00:01:35) Jason asks whether worldly comforts distract listeners from Christ’s freedom and God’s purpose. Personal Struggles with Priorities and Procrastination (00:04:34) Jason reflects on putting God first amid responsibilities, distractions, and delays in producing the podcast. Fear of Missing Out When Following God (00:07:23) He discusses prioritizing God despite concerns about missing entertainment and other activities. Theological Lyrics: “Infantry” (00:09:30) Jason interprets a song’s message about pursuing God’s calling while keeping leisure in balance. Old Testament Theology: Methods and Overview (00:13:04) Jason introduces methods for studying Old Testament theology and explains he will cover five of eleven. Dogmatic Method (00:15:27) He describes a God–humanity–salvation framework associated with George Lorenz Bauer and R. C. Denton. Genetic Progressive Method (00:16:53) Jason outlines an approach centered on God’s covenants with Noah, Abraham, and Moses. Cross-Section Method (00:18:10) He explains Eichrodt’s historical approach, organizing Old Testament theology around God and people, the world, and humanity. Topical Method (00:19:42) Jason describes Mackenzie’s Old Testament-focused study of Israel’s experience with Yahweh. Diachronic Method and Application (00:21:09) He presents von Rad’s focus on Israel’s interpretation of history and encourages listeners to study Scripture. Closing Prayer and Sign-Off (00:23:47) Jason prays for listeners’ growth in God’s Word and closes the episode.
Sep 29

A Practical Guide to Growing Spiritually and Understanding Old Testament Theology for Everyday Believers

In this episode of "Trap Theology," Jason encourages listeners to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, Bible reading, fellowship, and structured Scripture study using tools like commentaries and concordances. He emphasizes asking focused questions during Bible study for better understanding. In the "Theological Lyrics" segment, Jason reflects on a song by The Truth, highlighting Jesus as the foundation of hope. He then introduces Old Testament theology, tracing its historical development through various schools of thought, including the History of Religions, Salvation History, Neo-Orthodoxy, and Conservatism, closing with a prayer and a challenge to diligent Scripture study. The Moody Handbook of Theology: https://a.co/d/01yM5T5R Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2xj Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueezeI ntroduction and Welcome (00:00:09) Jason welcomes listeners, encourages them to subscribe and follow on social media, and thanks them for tuning in. Going Deeper with God (00:01:26) Jason challenges listeners to deepen their relationship with God, emphasizing that a Christian's walk should not be stagnant. How to Deepen Your Relationship (00:04:04) The host discusses practical ways to grow spiritually, including prayer, reading the Bible, and listening to God's word. The Importance of Fellowship (00:05:12) Jason explains that fellowship with other believers through church activities and service is crucial for spiritual growth. Tools for Studying Scripture (00:06:31) A list of helpful tools for Bible study is provided, including study Bibles, commentaries, concordances, dictionaries, and maps. Asking Questions in Bible Study (00:11:28) The host shares a personal story to illustrate the importance of asking specific questions to guide your Bible study. Theological Lyrics: The Truth (00:13:10) Jason reflects on the song "Healing Comes" by The Truth, highlighting its message of building hope on Jesus Christ. Introduction to Old Testament Theology (00:15:36) The teaching segment begins with an introduction to the history of Old Testament theology, referencing the Moody Handbook of Theology. The History of Religions School (00:20:29) This school of thought viewed the Old Testament as a historical document, influenced by Darwin's evolutionary theories. The Salvation History School (00:21:57) This school emphasized God's activity in history and the progressive development of salvation, but rejected the inspiration of Scripture. The Neo-Orthodoxy Movement (00:23:36) Emerging after World War I, this movement took a more serious attitude toward Scripture while acknowledging higher criticism. The Conservatism Movement (00:25:05) This 20th-century movement, centered at Princeton Seminary, provided leadership in conservative theology and shaped modern Christian beliefs. Application and Closing Prayer (00:26:24) Jason encourages listeners to study for themselves and closes the episode with a prayer for a deeper relationship with God.
Sep 22

Kingdom Builders: From Exile to Eternal Peace with Ezekiel’s Vision

In this episode of Trap Theology, host Jason explores the theme of partnering with God to establish His kingdom on earth — a kingdom of peace and order amid worldly chaos. He emphasizes total surrender, obedience, and dependence on God and others as essential to fulfilling God's calling. Jason then teaches on the prophet Ezekiel, who ministered to Jewish exiles in Babylon beginning around 598-597 BC, delivering messages of judgment but also hope and restoration — ultimately pointing to Jesus' millennial reign. Jason closes by encouraging listeners to remain faithful to God's mission regardless of life's challenges. Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2xj Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueeze Introduction to Trap Theology (00:00:10) Host Jason welcomes listeners and introduces the podcast's purpose: staying on the mission God has called him to. Partnering with God's Mission (00:01:08) Jason discusses partnering with God to establish His kingdom of peace and order on earth, contrasting it with worldly chaos. The World's Chaos and Disorder (00:01:45) A description of the chaos and disorder present in our lives, families, communities, and the world in general. God's Kingdom of Peace and Order (00:03:33) God's kingdom is one of peace and order, not chaos. We are called to be ambassadors for this kingdom. Submission and Obedience to God (00:04:47) To accept God's kingdom, we must submit to His ways and be obedient to His commands, avoiding procrastination. Dependence on God and Others (00:06:01) Living in God's kingdom requires total dependence on Him and others, as we cannot fulfill His calling alone. Introduction to the Prophet Ezekiel (00:07:28) The teaching segment begins, introducing the prophet Ezekiel, who ministered to Jewish exiles in Babylon around 598 BC. Ezekiel's Message of Judgment and Restoration (00:09:08) Ezekiel prophesied about God's glory departing the temple due to sin but also promised future restoration through Jesus's reign. Encouragement to Remain Faithful (00:10:04) Listeners are encouraged to remain faithful, partner with God, and continue pursuing His mission despite life's circumstances. Closing Remarks and Prayer (00:11:36) Jason provides closing remarks, directs listeners to show notes and social media, and offers a prayer for encouragement and strength.
Sep 15

Finding Joy in the Trap: A Deep Dive into Jeremiah’s Prophecy and Paul’s Prison Praise

In this episode of Trap Theology, host Jason opens with an inspirational segment asking listeners what occupies their minds, encouraging believers to meditate on God's Word rather than worry. Drawing from Philippians 4:6-9 and the Psalms, he emphasizes replacing anxiety with prayer and gratitude. He then teaches on the prophet Jeremiah, exploring his priestly background, role as the "weeping prophet," and warnings about Babylonian exile. Jason highlights Jeremiah 31's new covenant prophecy and encourages hope through hardship, referencing Jeremiah 29:11 and Paul's joy in prison. The episode concludes with a prayer. Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2xj Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueeze Introduction to Trap Theology (00:00:12) Jason welcomes listeners back to the show and introduces the first segment, the inspiration portion, with a question. What Are You Thinking About? (00:01:19) Jason asks listeners what is on their minds, suggesting believers should focus on the Word of God, not worldly worries. Finding Peace Through God's Word (00:02:42) Jason discusses how meditating on the Psalms and Philippians 4:6-9 helps replace worry with God's peace and right thinking. The Call to Meditate and Hope (00:07:43) Jason challenges listeners to meditate on God's word for peace and expresses gratitude for their continued support of the podcast. Introducing the Prophet Jeremiah (00:08:54) The teaching segment begins, focusing on the prophet Jeremiah, who was also a priest during King Josiah's reign. The Downfall of Judah (00:11:29) Jeremiah, the "weeping prophet," warned Judah about the Babylonian exile due to their disobedience and witnessed Jerusalem's destruction. The Prophecy of a New Covenant (00:14:31) Jason discusses Jeremiah's prophecy of a new covenant from Jeremiah 31, where God will write His law on people's hearts. Application: Always Have Hope (00:15:36) Jason encourages listeners to always have hope, referencing Jeremiah 29:11 and Paul's joy while imprisoned in Philippians. Closing Prayer (00:18:16) Jason concludes the episode with a prayer for listeners to maintain hope and meditate on God's word through their struggles.
Feb 25

From Milk to Meat: The Journey of Growing in Faith Through Scripture

In this episode of "Trap Theology," host Jason encourages listeners to deepen their relationship with God by studying the Bible beyond surface reading. He shares personal experiences, offers practical study tips, and highlights the importance of using tools like commentaries and concordances. Jason discusses the prophetic role of Isaiah, exploring themes of judgment, hope, and messianic prophecy. He connects biblical insights to Black History Month and inspires listeners to be open to God’s calling, closing with a heartfelt prayer for spiritual growth and commitment. Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2xj Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueeze Introduction and Welcome (00:00:11) Jason welcomes listeners, thanks longtime supporters, and introduces the episode’s focus on deepening one’s relationship with God. The Importance of Studying God’s Word (00:01:20) Encouragement to study the Bible deeply, not just superficially, to truly know God. How to Study the Bible Effectively (00:02:41) Advice on engaging with scripture: ask questions, understand context, and avoid surface-level reading. Developing Spiritual Disciplines (00:03:52) Emphasizes study as a spiritual discipline, alongside prayer, reading, and meditation. Practical Study Steps and Tools (00:05:16) Suggests rereading passages, asking questions, and using resources like concordances and Bible dictionaries. Personal Story: The Value of Commentaries (00:06:44) Jason shares how a commentary helped him understand a difficult passage and deepened his study. Balancing Reading, Meditation, and Study (00:09:17) Discusses the difference between reading for devotion and deeper study, and the importance of meditation. Further Study Resources and Episode References (00:11:10) Recommends previous podcast episodes for more study tips and tools. Transition to Black History Month (00:12:23) Jason introduces the Black History Month segment, sharing his background as a historian. Book Recommendation: Frederick Douglass (00:13:30) Discusses the book "Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom" and its exploration of Douglass’s life and prophetic voice. Connecting Black History and Theology (00:14:51) Reflects on Douglass as a prophetic figure and encourages listeners to seek God and their calling. Introduction to the Prophets as Kingdom Mediators (00:16:15) Begins teaching about biblical prophets, focusing on their role as God’s mouthpieces. Focus on Isaiah: Background and Authorship (00:17:36) Explains Isaiah’s role, the meaning of his name, and debates about the book’s authorship. Isaiah’s Ministry and Historical Context (00:19:05) Details Isaiah’s prophetic ministry, his access to kings, and the historical setting. Authorship Debates and Theological Perspective (00:20:19) Discusses scholarly debates on Isaiah’s authorship and asserts God’s ultimate authorship. Isaiah’s Prophecies and Themes (00:23:16) Covers Isaiah’s prophecies about Assyria, Babylon, exile, return, and the coming Messiah. Application: Being Available to God (00:26:14)
Feb 3

When the Message Gets Tough: Embracing Your Role as a Proclaimer

In this episode of "Trap Theology," host Jason explores the challenge of proclaiming the message God gives each believer, drawing inspiration from the prophet Jeremiah’s struggles and faithfulness. Jason emphasizes the importance of speaking God’s word, even when it’s unpopular or difficult, and highlights the prophets’ roles as mediators of God’s kingdom. He encourages listeners to pursue a personal relationship with God, participate in discipleship, and boldly share their God-given message, trusting that God is with them despite opposition or rejection. The episode concludes with a prayer for strength and encouragement. Newsletter: grace.trap.akademics@gmail.com Donate to the show: https://paypal.me/JasonEllerbee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grace.trap.akademics?igsh=Z3Y2YW9hNHpmN2xj Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17DquWLFh5/ Timestamps by PodSqueeze Welcome and Introduction (00:00:11) Jason welcomes listeners, thanks supporters, and encourages sharing the podcast. The Message You Need to Proclaim (00:01:26) Jason asks what message God has given you to proclaim and challenges listeners to speak out. Jeremiah’s Calling and Message (00:02:46) Jason reads Jeremiah 1:4-10, discussing Jeremiah’s prophetic calling and the importance of proclaiming God’s message. Knowing God vs. Theology (00:05:24) Emphasizes that a relationship with God is more important than perfect theology. Jeremiah’s Struggle to Speak (00:06:45) Explores Jeremiah 20:7-9, Jeremiah’s reluctance, and the necessity of speaking God’s word despite opposition. Unpopular Messages and Perseverance (00:08:07) Discusses the unpopularity of Jeremiah’s message and the need to proclaim truth even when it’s hard. Jeremiah’s Lament and Encouragement (00:09:21) Reads Jeremiah 20:7-18, highlighting Jeremiah’s emotional struggle and God’s support for those who speak His word. Encouragement to Proclaim Your Message (00:13:29) Jason encourages listeners to pursue intimacy with God and continue proclaiming His message despite challenges. Transition to Teaching: Prophets as Mediators (00:14:19) Introduces the teaching segment on Old Testament prophets as mediators of God’s kingdom. Role and Message of the Prophets (00:14:53) Explains the prophets’ role during kingly apostasy and their twofold message: obeying the Mosaic law and prophesying the future kingdom. Overview of Major Prophets (00:16:16) Briefly introduces Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel, and their unique contributions to kingdom theology. Jeremiah and the New Covenant (00:17:43) Focuses on Jeremiah’s prophecy of the new covenant and its significance for Israel’s future. Ezekiel and Restored Worship (00:19:17) Mentions Ezekiel’s vision of restored worship in the future kingdom. Daniel and the Millennial Kingdom (00:20:32) Describes Daniel’s vision of the Messiah establishing God’s eternal kingdom. Call to Action and Closing Prayer (00:21:48) Encourages listeners to advance God’s kingdom, join a church, and closes with a prayer for encouragement. Final Blessing and Farewell (00:23:06) Jason signs off, blessing listeners and ending the episode.

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3.5

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Learning the deep truths of God through his Word and theology RSSVERIFY

Creator

Jason Ellerbee
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

55
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Jason Ellerbee
Show Website

Trap Theology