The Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast
Matt Whitman
Welcome to the Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast where we pick a book of the Bible and work our way through it a little bit each day! You can start with today's episode or go back to the beginning of any of these seven seasons:Season 1 - Matthew (Began October, 2019 - Episodes 1-800)Season 2 - One Book of the Bible Per Day (Began January, 2023)Season 3 - Esther (Began April 9, 2023)Season 4 - Nehemiah (Began January 1, 2024)Season 5 - Galatians (Began August 26, 2024)Season 6 - Philemon (Began October 19, 2025)SEASON 7 - John (CURRENT SEASON, Began February 9, 2026)You can also check out the daily audio-only podcast on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/@TenMinuteBibleHourPick up a copy of The Lightning-Fast Field Guide to the Bible by me (Matt Whitman) from Harper-Collins/Zondervan here: https://amzn.to/4pEYSS9More About the Show: I'm Matt, and if you're interested in understanding the Bible better and you prefer your Christianity quick and punchy with a healthy side of humor, and an equally healthy side of me not telling you what to do, we're probably going to get along great. This is my podcast where we pick a book of the Bible and then break it down one part at a time every weekday morning.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 16, 2026 • 13min
JOHN006 - They're Both Technically Cars, but Dang, That Tesla Is Next Level
A driving analogy compares a 1940s Ford to a Tesla to frame a discussion about two ways of understanding the same idea. The Tesla ride illustrates advanced, transformative features versus older limitations. The Greek concept of logos is unpacked and then contrasted with the fuller biblical 'Word' that creates rather than merely orders. A promise to dive deeper into philosophy and theology follows.
10 snips
Feb 13, 2026 • 27min
JOHN005 - Who Was John Writing This For?
A discussion about designing content with specific listeners in mind and how that shapes tone, music, and editing. They map imagined audience profiles like scattered Jews, God-fearers, and Gentile Christians. Historical context of the temple's destruction and John ministering from Ephesus is explored. They examine internal hints in language and intent that point to a targeted readership.
9 snips
Feb 12, 2026 • 12min
JOHN004 - Wait, Are We Talking About 6-7 or 6'7"?
A playful dive into how a viral 'six, seven' meme reshapes meaning based on audience. Short lessons on how each Gospel’s intended readers change interpretation. Quick sketches of Matthew, Mark, Luke and how those audiences help unpack John’s opening lines.
Feb 11, 2026 • 13min
JOHN003 - Ladies and Gentlemen, We've Got a Hinge Word Over Here and We're Going to Get to the Bottom of It
A playful take on how a single repeating word shapes meaning, starting with Poe and moving to ancient scripture. A deep dive into why John opens with 'the Word' instead of naming Jesus directly. Contextual history explains how audience and culture shaped that choice. A preview teases why different gospel perspectives matter for understanding the message.
9 snips
Feb 10, 2026 • 13min
JOHN002 - In the Beginning, John's a Little Intimidating, but It's Coming Into Focus Quickly
A brisk walk through John 1:1-5, unpacking why the opening feels puzzling. The host traces echoes of Genesis and teases the creation language. He wrestles with the identity and personhood of 'the Word.' Themes of life and light emerging from the Word and light overcoming darkness get spotlighted.
Feb 9, 2026 • 12min
JOHN001 - Is John the Best Thing Ever Written in the History of the World?
A lively kickoff that invites listeners into the Gospel of John with a fresh, approachable read-through. The host frames John 1:1-5, explains why its bold theology can feel intimidating, and promises accessible, conversational study. Expect discussions on John’s mix of deep theology and storytelling, its portrayal of Jesus’ life and signs, and an open invitation to read along together.
7 snips
Feb 7, 2026 • 3min
The Book of Philemon (How I Read It Out Loud With What I've Learned After 80 Episodes)
A lively reading of Philemon with attention to its greetings, prayers, and personal appeals. Themes include faith, love, and exhortations to active discipleship. The dramatic turn of Onesimus from slave to beloved brother is highlighted. Personal guarantees, requests for welcome, and warm final greetings round out the reading.
Feb 6, 2026 • 25min
PLMN080 - What Happened After Philemon and What's the Point of This Book?
Discussion of what likely happened to Philemon and Onesimus after the letter. Exploration of Paul's creative legal and moral approach to a fraught reconciliation. Examination of historical records and traditions about Colossae and possible later lives for these figures. Reflection on practical outcomes like manumission and wider lessons about reconciliation and community.
8 snips
Feb 5, 2026 • 13min
PLMN079 - The Letter Is Very Kind, but It Came with Clear Expectations
A playful look at neighborly awkwardness and how it mirrors Paul's warm but expectant tone in Philemon. Examination of ancient letter structure and rhetorical skill. Discussion of a bold offer to cover someone else’s debt. Reflections on requests for practical help and the letter’s effective closing greetings.
Feb 4, 2026 • 15min
PLMN078 - Paul's Willing to Put His Money Where His Mouth Is
A close look at Philemon and the ancient social world of slavery. Tension between forgiveness and justice is explored through Paul's actions. Paul offers to pay debts and even signs the letter himself to press for reconciliation. The episode highlights practical costs and moral risks involved in pursuing restored relationships.
