What in the Word?

Presented by Logos
  • 5.0 (21)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

"What in the world does that verse mean?" This show tackles the hardest Bible verses to understand. Each episode, host Kirk E. Miller interviews an expert guest to discuss a text in the Bible that is known to be challenging to interpret. They do in-depth Bible study and survey scholars' interpretations. By investigating the strangest and hardest Bible verses, What in the Word? gets below the surface to learn their implications for understanding God and living the Christian life. Subscribe and join us weekly on Spotify, YouTube, and other podcast platforms. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3DYhMjP

  1. Why in the Word? | A Behind the Scenes Recap of Season 1

    06/11/2025

    Why in the Word? | A Behind the Scenes Recap of Season 1

    What in the Word? wraps up a rich and thought-provoking first season. In this special finale, host Kirk E. Miller turns the mic on himself, as Matt Barrios, the show’s producer, leads a reflective interview covering lessons learned, favorite passages, surprising insights, and behind-the-scenes moments. From tackling tough texts like Genesis 6, 1 Corinthians 15, and the Canaanite conquest to unforgettable interviews with scholars like Carmen Imes, Lynn Cohick, and Mike Horton, this recap offers a meaningful look back—and a peek forward at what’s to come in Season 2. Explore more: https://www.logos.com/grow/witw-season-1-recap?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=social

    13 min
  2. Is the Song Allegorical? | Fellipe do Vale on Song of Solomon

    06/04/2025

    Is the Song Allegorical? | Fellipe do Vale on Song of Solomon

    What’s the Song of Solomon really about? Is the Song a literal love poem, an allegory of God’s love, or something in between In this episode of What in the Word?, Kirk E. Miller is joined by Fellipe do Vale to explore the interpretive challenges of one of the Bible’s more difficult books. They examine the Song of Song's character dynamics, imagery, and theological purpose as wisdom literature. Discover how the Song contributes to a biblical vision of love and redemption. Learn more and get special offers from Logos: https://www.logos.com/grow/witw-song-of-solomon?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=social Disclaimer: Logos values thoughtful and engaging discussions on important biblical topics. However, the views and interpretations presented in this episode are those of the individuals speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Logos. We recognize that Christians may hold different perspectives on this passage, and we welcome diverse engagement and respectful dialogue. Outline: 00:00 Introduction: The Song of Solomon Debate 00:57 Meet Dr. Felipe Devele 01:25 Felipe's Journey and Specialization 02:30 Diving into the Song of Songs 04:03 Overview and Challenges of Interpretation 06:17 Historical and Theological Context 10:52 Debates and Interpretations 20:34 Marriage as a Metaphor in Scripture 24:09 Exploring the Song of Songs 24:50 Biblical Imagery in the Song of Songs 25:49 The Garden and Temple Imagery 29:13 Human and Divine Love in the Song of Songs 31:30 Edenic Imagery and Redemption 39:57 The Power of Love and Its Theological Implications 43:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    47 min
  3. What Does It Mean to Work Out Our Salvation? | Lynn Cohick on Philippians 2:12–13

    05/28/2025

    What Does It Mean to Work Out Our Salvation? | Lynn Cohick on Philippians 2:12–13

    In this episode of What in the Word?, Lynn H. Cohick joins Kirk E. Miller to unpack Paul's exhortation in Philippians 2:12–13. What does it mean to “work out your salvation with fear and trembling”? Does this imply salvation is earned? How do we reconcile Paul’s call to action with his insistence elsewhere that salvation is not by works? Together, Kirk and Lynn explore the passage’s literary and theological context, its implications for how we think about salvation and sanctification, and how this text shapes the Christian life. Explore more: https://www.logos.com/grow/witw-work-out-your-salvation?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=social Disclaimer: Logos values thoughtful and engaging discussions on important biblical topics. However, the views and interpretations presented in this episode are those of the individuals speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Logos. We recognize that Christians may hold different perspectives on this passage, and we welcome diverse engagement and respectful dialogue. Episode outline: 00:00 Introduction to Paul's Teachings on Salvation 00:28 Show Introduction and Listener Engagement 01:03 Guest Introduction: Dr. Lynn Cohick 01:39 Dr. Cohick's Background and Work 03:59 Context of Philippians and Paul's Relationship with the Philippians 08:47 Analyzing Philippians 2:12-13 10:44 Understanding Salvation in Paul's Writings 18:03 Theological and Ethical Implications of Salvation 23:11 Working Out Salvation: Practical Insights 26:23 The Whole Body Experience of Salvation 27:30 The Process of Sanctification 28:16 Community and Salvation 29:14 Unity in the Church 32:35 The Role of Citizenship in Philippians 39:18 Fear and Trembling in Salvation 43:12 Grace, Works, and Salvation 50:30 Practical Applications and Teaching 52:22 Conclusion and Call to Action

    53 min
  4. Did Jesus Falsely Predict His Return? | Jeannine Brown on Matthew 16:28

    05/21/2025

    Did Jesus Falsely Predict His Return? | Jeannine Brown on Matthew 16:28

    In this episode of What in the Word?, Kirk E. Miller is joined by New Testament scholar Jeannine Brown to explore one of Scripture’s most challenging passages: Matthew 16:28. Did Jesus mistakenly predict his return? Together, they examine various interpretations—such as the transfiguration, the resurrection, Pentecost, the fall of Jerusalem, and the second coming—and discuss the most compelling understanding of Jesus’s words. Tune in to gain clarity and learn how to apply and teach this often-misunderstood verse. Learn more and explore special offers from Logos: https://www.logos.com/grow/witw-did-jesus-falsely-predict-his-return?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=social Disclaimer: Logos values thoughtful and engaging discussions on important biblical topics. However, the views and interpretations presented in this episode are those of the individuals speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Logos. We recognize that Christians may hold different perspectives on this passage, and we welcome diverse engagement and respectful dialogue. Episode outline: 00:00 Introduction to the Controversial Passage 00:57 Meet Dr. Jeannine Brown 02:45 Diving into Matthew 16:28 03:56 Context and Interpretive Challenges 13:42 Exploring Different Interpretations 18:33 The Transfiguration View 23:18 The Resurrection View 23:34 Pentecost and the Coming of the Spirit 28:15 The Spread of the Kingdom 28:55 Exploring the Elusive Pentecost Idea 29:15 Mission's Discourse and the Son of Man 29:55 Witnessing in Jerusalem and Beyond 31:02 Destruction of the Temple and Daniel's Prophecy 33:54 Interpretations of the Son of Man's Coming 37:53 Daniel's Vision and Jesus' Vindication 51:21 Practical Significance and Teaching Recommendations 57:15 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    59 min
  5. Where Did Satan Come From? | Phillip Cary on Genesis 3

    05/14/2025

    Where Did Satan Come From? | Phillip Cary on Genesis 3

    If God is good and created all things good, where did evil come from? In this episode of What in the Word?, Phillip Cary joins Kirk E. Miller to explore Genesis 3 and the origins of evil. Where did the serpent—this cunning adversary and deceiver—come from? And how could Adam and Eve, who created good and without sin, fall into its temptation? What does the Bible teach about God’s relationship to evil? Learn more and get special offers from Logos: https://www.logos.com/grow/witw-where-did-satan-come-from?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=social Episode outline: 00:00 Introduction to the Cunning Serpent 00:18 Meet Dr. Phillip Cary 00:25 Support and Subscribe 01:01 Introduction to the Show 01:23 Dr. Philip Carey's Background 02:40 The Origin of Evil in Genesis 03:46 Reading Genesis 3:1-7 05:05 Philosophical and Theological Issues of Evil 06:29 Augustine's Perspective on Evil 11:18 Corruption and Deprivation 15:58 The Problem of Evil 16:48 Historical Viewpoints on Evil 17:16 The Serpent and Satan 18:14 Revelation and the Fall of Satan 25:19 Exploring the Invisible Heavens 26:50 Augustine's Interpretation of Light in Genesis 28:38 The Fall of Satan and the Origin of Evil 37:17 The Role of Free Will in Sin 41:27 Adam, Eve, and the Serpent: A Deeper Look 48:55 Practical Takeaways for Christians 50:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    52 min
  6. Is the Creation Story Literal? | Vern Poythress on Genesis 1:1-2:3

    05/07/2025

    Is the Creation Story Literal? | Vern Poythress on Genesis 1:1-2:3

    How should we understand the Bible’s Creation story in Genesis 1:1–2:3? In this episode of What in the Word?, Kirk E. Miller is joined by Vern Poythress to explore the genre, interpretation, and theological intent of Genesis 1:1–2:3. They discuss various interpretive models—such as literal 24-hour days, the literary framework view, day age theory, and more—while addressing questions of history, science, and the meaning of the “days” of creation. Tune in as we reflect deeply on how Scripture portrays God as the sovereign, wise, and beneficent Creator. Learn more about this episode and get special offers from Logos: https://logos.com/grow/witw-creation-story-genesis-1?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=social Disclaimer: Logos values thoughtful and engaging discussions on important biblical topics. However, the views and interpretations presented in this episode are those of the individuals speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Logos. We recognize that Christians may hold different perspectives on this passage, and we welcome diverse engagement and respectful dialogue. Episode outline: 00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Genesis 00:25 Welcome and Show Introduction 01:01 Guest Introduction: Dr. Verne Pores 02:52 Context of Genesis Chapter 1 07:38 Theological Significance of Genesis 10:41 Interpretive Challenges and Modern Context 16:21 Different Interpretations of Genesis 1 20:23 Framework and Day-Age Views 24:32 Analogical and Mature Creation Views 30:47 Relevance of Genesis Across Cultures 33:10 Sponsor Message and Additional Views 35:31 Different Views on Creation 36:44 Interpreting Genesis 1: Genre and Literalism 37:57 The Genre of Genesis: Nonfiction Hebrew Prose 41:34 Genesis 1 vs. Ancient Near Eastern Myths 46:08 Personal Views on Creation Days 56:08 Practical Significance and Preaching Genesis 1 01:01:00 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

    1h 4m
  7. Is It Wrong to Want to Be Rich? | Malcolm Foley on 1 Timothy 6:6–10

    04/30/2025

    Is It Wrong to Want to Be Rich? | Malcolm Foley on 1 Timothy 6:6–10

    In this episode of What in the Word?, Malcolm Foley joins Kirk E. Miller to discuss the challenging passage of 1 Timothy 6:6–10. Together, they unpack Paul’s warnings about the desire for wealth and consider how the love of money is described as a root of all kinds of evil. Dr. Foley—pastor, scholar, and author—helps us think biblically about wealth, contentment, and how the church can resist the cultural pull toward materialism. Learn more and get special offers from Logos: https://www.logos.com/grow/witw-desire-for-wealth-1-timothy-6?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=social Disclaimer: Logos values thoughtful and engaging discussions on important biblical topics. However, the views and interpretations presented in this episode are those of the individuals speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Logos. We recognize that Christians may hold different perspectives on this passage, and we welcome diverse engagement and respectful dialogue. Episode outline: 00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts 01:17 Meet Dr. Malcolm Foley 02:05 Diving into 1 Timothy 6:9 02:36 Context and Contentment 04:41 Warnings Against Wealth 06:06 The Love of Money 09:48 Historical Interpretations of Wealth 24:26 The Love of Money and Its Consequences 26:33 Different Translations and Interpretations 31:19 Theological Implications of Wealth 43:33 Practical Applications for the Church 51:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    53 min
  8. Is Jesus Inferior to the Father? | Michael Horton on John 14:28

    04/23/2025

    Is Jesus Inferior to the Father? | Michael Horton on John 14:28

    Is Jesus really less than the Father? In this What in the Word? episode, Kirk E. Miller is joined by theologian Michael Horton to tackle John 14:28, where Jesus says, “The Father is greater than I.” Does this verse contradict Jesus divinity and equality with the Father? What did Jesus mean in context—and what have Christians historically believed about this passage? Together, Kirk and Mike explore multiple interpretations explanation, including Arianism, eternal generation, the state of Christ’s humiliation, eternal functional subordination, and more. They conclude with practical insights for teaching and applying this deeply theological text. Learn more and get special offers from Logos: https://www.logos.com/grow/witw-john-14-28?utm_campaign=show-witw&utm_source=spotify&utm_medium=social Disclaimer: Logos values thoughtful and engaging discussions on important biblical topics. However, the views and interpretations presented in this episode are those of the individuals speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official position of Logos. We recognize that Christians may hold different perspectives on this passage, and we welcome diverse engagement and respectful dialogue. Episode outline: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:54 Guest Introduction: Dr. Michael Horton 02:39 Context of John 14:28 03:24 Jesus' Upper Room Discourse 05:20 Theological Implications of John 14:28 10:53 Orthodox Interpretation of John 14:28 17:52 Alternative Interpretations and Debates 26:14 Exploring Social Distinctions and Hierarchical Roles 26:45 Understanding Heresies: Modalism and Subordination 28:58 Logos Bible Study Platform: Enhancing Your Scripture Study 29:43 Diverse Views on the Trinity and Eternal Generation 30:40 Theological Implications of Eternal Generation 33:10 Practical Applications of Theological Concepts 38:57 Jesus' Redemptive Mission and the Role of the Holy Spirit 44:06 Teaching and Preaching: Equipping Others to Read the Bible 47:53 Conclusion and Call to Action

    49 min
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"What in the world does that verse mean?" This show tackles the hardest Bible verses to understand. Each episode, host Kirk E. Miller interviews an expert guest to discuss a text in the Bible that is known to be challenging to interpret. They do in-depth Bible study and survey scholars' interpretations. By investigating the strangest and hardest Bible verses, What in the Word? gets below the surface to learn their implications for understanding God and living the Christian life. Subscribe and join us weekly on Spotify, YouTube, and other podcast platforms. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3DYhMjP

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  • Creator
    Presented by Logos
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    22
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    © Presented by Logos
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    What in the Word?