The BEMA Podcast
BEMA Discipleship
The BEMA Podcast is a walk-through of the context of the Bible and the Text itself, as well as surrounding history. We deconstruct our common readings of the Bible and attempt to reconstruct them through the lens of historical context.
The main body of work is contained in Seasons 1–5, and we encourage you to start with episode 0 (or even -1) and continue in order through episode 204. Beyond that, we explore new topics, revisit old topics, and dive deeper into practical ways of living out the things we have learned together.
BEMA Discipleship is a ministry of Impact Campus Ministries.
The main body of work is contained in Seasons 1–5, and we encourage you to start with episode 0 (or even -1) and continue in order through episode 204. Beyond that, we explore new topics, revisit old topics, and dive deeper into practical ways of living out the things we have learned together.
BEMA Discipleship is a ministry of Impact Campus Ministries.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Oct 30, 2025 • 1h 16min
481: Vice & Virtue — Sloth
Dive into the exploration of sloth, or acedia, a deeper spiritual malaise beyond mere laziness. The hosts discuss the overwhelming nature of modern life and how comfort can lead to indifference and cynicism. They connect acedia to scriptural themes and propose Sabbath as a remedy to reorient our care. Listeners are encouraged to confront their own tendencies toward apathy and distraction while discovering small, faithful practices that can revive passion and purpose. It's a thought-provoking journey into our relationship with productivity and spiritual vitality.
Oct 27, 2025 • 37min
480: The Chosen S5E7 — “The Upper Room, Part 1” (Bonus Episode)
Marty Solomon and Brent Billings dive into the intriguing dynamics of the foot-washing scene, revealing its deeper rabbinic implications. They explore the emotional conflict of Judas amid family tensions and reflect on Peter's evolving role as a preacher. The hosts discuss the significance of Mark's vision and the Essene connections, while also highlighting poignant backstories of the disciples through compelling flashbacks. Throughout their analysis, the theme of anticipation in the upper room unfolds, setting a rich backdrop for the unfolding narrative.
Oct 23, 2025 • 1h 4min
479: Vice & Virtue — Wrath
Exploring the complexities of wrath, Brent and Reed dive into the allure of revenge and its biblical implications. They discuss how God's anger, slow and restorative, contrasts with human anger's vengeful tendencies. Referencing scripture, they examine what provokes divine wrath and its ultimate goal of healing. The conversation highlights the dangers of misdirected anger and the use of pop culture to process feelings of revenge. They encourage self-reflection on anger's role in our lives and its potential for motivating compassion.
Oct 20, 2025 • 38min
478: The Chosen S5E6 — “Reunions” (Bonus Episode)
Dive into a gripping analysis of the latest episode, where the hosts dissect the intricate dynamics surrounding the Passover and Last Supper. Explore the tension between Nicodemus and Mary, highlighting their differing views on Jesus. Delve into Judas' secret negotiations with the high priest and the gripping political landscape under Pilate’s watch. Hear about Kofni’s vengeance and the reveal of Barabbas, culminating in Nicodemus's ominous scriptural reflections on Jesus' fate. This discussion uncovers layers of intrigue and character motivations!
Oct 16, 2025 • 1h 2min
477: Vice & Virtue — Envy
Brent and Reed dive into the complexities of envy, using The Talented Mr. Ripley to illustrate its consuming nature. They differentiate envy from covetousness, highlighting how it distorts identity and fosters zero-sum thinking. Exploring Aquinas' views, they discuss envy’s harmful social effects and its opposition to love and joy. The hosts examine cultural tendencies to leverage envy for competition, lined with biblical examples of Cain and Abel. Practical strategies to combat envy are shared, promoting self-examination and celebrating others.
Oct 13, 2025 • 31min
476: The Chosen S5E5 — “Because of Me” (Bonus Episode)
Marty and Brent dive deep into the intricacies of character development in The Chosen, exploring themes of betrayal and personal growth among the disciples. They discuss the intentional use of camera techniques and reflect on biblical moments, like Judas' possession and Thomas' anger. The market confrontation adds social tension while Claudia’s dream hints at Pilate’s domestic issues. Conversations around Sanhedrin politics reveal deeper power dynamics, leading to surprising character returns and suspenseful moments, such as Mary's kidnapping.
Oct 9, 2025 • 1h 2min
475: Vice & Virtue — Vainglory
Dive into the intriguing world of vainglory as the hosts explore its connection to fame and applause. They dissect pride through the lens of literature and cinema, showcasing how films like Whiplash and There Will Be Blood illustrate its complexities. John Chrysostom’s insights on pride’s impact on believers highlight the vice's subtle grip. Social media's role in fostering vainglory comes under scrutiny, revealing how recognition can distort self-worth. A monastic tale about burning baskets underscores the value of genuine, unrecognized effort.
Oct 6, 2025 • 42min
474: The Chosen S5E4 — “The Same Coin” (Bonus Episode)
Marty and Brent dive deep into Season 5 of The Chosen, analyzing key moments like the Passover scene and its structure. They explore the significance of Dayenu and the Seder elements. The portrayal of Judas and his controversial exit from the meal sparks a conversation about his motivations and political frustrations. The hosts also discuss how the disciples react to tension, the dynamics of the Sanhedrin plotting against Jesus, and the emotional depth of women's roles during the Seder. Their insights weave together history, drama, and character development.
8 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 1h 14min
473: Vice & Virtue — Greed
Elle Grover Fricks, a scholar in Christian ethics and reception history, joins the conversation to explore the complex nature of greed. They discuss iconic films like Wall Street and The Wolf of Wall Street, relating them to the disordered desire of greed. Elle emphasizes how greed obstructs kingdom living and shapes identity in consumer culture. The hosts examine the isolation it causes, the psychological toll it takes, and challenge norms around ownership and community practices, advocating for a mindset of liberality and reflection on our possessions.
Sep 29, 2025 • 38min
472: The Chosen S5E3 — “Woes” (Bonus Episode)
Join the hosts as they dive into the emotional intensity of Jesus weeping during the triumphal entry. They explore the disciples' confusion during the Passover, shedding light on the promise of the Holy Spirit. The episode challenges the authority of Jesus post-temple cleansing, unveiling the reactions of religious leaders debating their next moves. Judas’s character takes center stage, revealing his inner conflicts. The commentary includes a thought-provoking look at Jesus' teachings on the end times and the powerful portrayal of his lament over Jerusalem.
