As Braydee and Steve wrap up the season, they recap some of the latest topics discussed on the podcast including free will, heaven, and the notion of how our theology
Continue readingDeep Dive: Free Will, Heaven, Worship, and Lots More – RP 28
Steve recaps some of the highlights of this past season of the podcast and gives a few announcements for the upcoming fourth season. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/https://fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_225.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | DownloadSubscribe:
Continue readingSeason 3 Recap and Season 4 Announcements – FS 225
Today, Steve discusses some of the more prominent objections to the Molinist position on heavenly freedom and clarifies his position on the topic further. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/https://fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_224.mp3Podcast: Play in new window |
Continue readingObjections to the Molinist Perspective on Free Will in Heaven – FS 224
Is being in the overwhelming and holy presence of God enough to guarantee that we will never sin in Heaven? Considering that the devil, Adam, and Eve all fell while
Continue readingWhat Else Would Heavenly Free Will Require? – FS 223
In this devotional episode, Steve looks at how David appeals to four key attributes of God in the midst of his trials and the injustice he is experiencing. Can we
As we wrap up Season 3 of the podcast this week, Steve looks to a final view that can answer how free will and eternal sinlessness in heaven could be
Continue readingFree Will in Heaven? A Molinist View – FS 221
Continuing on with yesterday’s episode, Steve dives a little deeper into this “impeccable character” view of how we could reconcile a heaven without sin and a heaven with real creaturely
Continue readingFree Will in Heaven? A Critique of The “Impeccable Character” View – FS 220
Today, Steve outlines another view that attempts to reconcile eternal sinlessness with heavenly freedom. Unlike the so-called evictionist view we looked at yesterday, this view staunchly protects the biblical teaching
Continue readingFree Will in Heaven? The “Impeccable Character” View – FS 219
Today, we’ll look at one solution that’s been offered to reconcile eternal sinlessness and heavenly freedom. But does it swing the pendulum too far in the direction of human freedom?
Continue readingFree Will in Heaven? The “Evictionist” View (and Critique) – FS 218
What a great Proverb! Today, we’ll dive into the blessings that come with humility, the foolishness of pride, and a biblical understanding of what it means to have God’s blessing
Kicking off this addendum to our Problem of Evil series, Steve frames the discussion of free will in heaven by defining some terms and laying out a basic overview of
Closing out our main series in this season on the Problem of Evil, Steve summarizes the big questions we’ve covered thus far to answer the ultimate question: Why does God
Is it possible to balance the ideas of free will in Heaven and eternal sinlessness? Or are they mutually exclusive concepts? If God wanted both, what would be required? We
Today, Steve continues to look at biblical passages that teach us about what Heaven will be like and how Heaven and the life to come will properly frame our view
Continue readingHow Will Heaven Mitigate our Earthly Suffering ? (Part 2) – FS 213
In this Psalm, we find a great number of characteristics modeled by David that are worth examining and emulating in our own lives. Additionally, we find in this passage of
As we wrap up our final week on the main topic of the Problem of Evil, we turn our attention to one of the last remaining “big” questions: How will
Continue readingHow Will Heaven Mitigate Our Earthly Suffering? (Part 1) – FS 211
In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Steve and Braydee recap some of the issues raised by the Fruit Snacks episodes on the value of free will. We also cover
The conclusion of the interview with Mike Turturice on being a Christian teacher in a public school and thinking about education from a Christian perspective. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/https://fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_210.mp3Podcast: Play in new window
Continue readingInterview with Mike Turturice (Part 5) – FS 210
Part 4 of the interview with Mike Turturice on being a Christian teacher in a public school and thinking about education from a Christian perspective. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/https://fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_209.mp3Podcast: Play in new window
Continue readingInterview with Mike Turturice (Part 4) – FS 209
Part 3 of the interview with Mike Turturice on being a Christian teacher in a public school and thinking about education from a Christian perspective. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/https://fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_208.mp3Podcast: Play in new window
Continue readingInterview with Mike Turturice (Part 3) – FS 208
Part 2 of the interview with Mike Turturice on being a Christian teacher in a public school and thinking about education from a Christian perspective. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/https://fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_207.mp3Podcast: Play in new window
Continue readingInterview with Mike Turturice (Part 2) – FS 207
This week, we’re taking time to chat with another special guest, Mike Turturice. Mike is one of the elders at the Oasis Church in Gilbert, AZ and is also a
Continue readingInterview with Mike Turturice (Part 1) – FS 206
In this episode, we conclude our look at the purposes of suffering according to the Bible and wrap up the question, “What good is the suffering you and I endure?”
Continue readingWhat Good is My Suffering? (Part 4) – FS 205
Over the next two episodes, we look at what the Bible has to say about the various intended purposes of suffering and trials in our lives as Christians. God does
Continue readingWhat Good is My Suffering? (Part 3) – FS 204
We continue to answer the question, “What good is the suffering we face?” on today’s episode, focusing primarily on the question of so-called gratuitous or unjustified suffering in the world.
Continue readingWhat Good is My Suffering? (Part 2) – FS 203
Just how important our your words? In today’s episode out of Proverbs 15, Steve discusses the Bible’s perspective on how, as followers of God, our relationship ought to be properly
This week, Steve turns to another big question as part of our overarching focus on the Problem of Evil: What possible good is the suffering you and I endure in
Continue readingWhat Good is My Suffering? (Part 1) – FS 201
Steve and Braydee discuss more issues associated with the death of children, the Canaanite conquest in the Old Testament, and how the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus provides the
Continue readingDeep Dive: Why Does God Let Children Die? – RP 26
On this episode of Fruit Snacks we wrap up the discussion on the value of free will and look at the only real logical alternatives feasible to God other than
Continue readingIs Free Will Really That Valuable? (Part 4) – FS 200
This is a bit of a lengthier episode, but in it we cover all kinds of common objections to the notion that free will as we experience it really is
Continue readingIs Free Will Really That Valuable? (Part 3) – FS 199
Continuing in our discussion on the value of free will, this episode focuses on the very real paradox that free will creates. If it’s so valuable, then why do we
Continue readingIs Free Will Really That Valuable? (Part 2) – FS 198
What a jam-packed short Psalm this is! Join Steve for a devotional into Psalm 15 and the picture it paints of someone in true fellowship with God. This passage will
This week on Fruit Snacks, Steve examines the nature of free will and if it could possibly be so valuable as to be worth all the evil and suffering it
Continue readingIs Free Will Really That Valuable? (Part 1) – FS 196
To wrap up this difficult question, Steve brings this week’s discussion full-circle to the issue of free will and how we really can’t answer a question about the death of
Continue readingWhy Does God Let a Child Die? (Part 4) – FS 195
While this episode is among the longest Fruit Snacks we’ve done, we cover a very important apologetic topic related to the death of children: the so-called “Canaanite Genocide” described in
Continue readingWhy Does God Let a Child Die? (Part 3) – FS 194
As we seek to answer this week’s big question, we should first step back and realize just how ill-equipped we are to answer it. Steve demonstrates with several hypothetical scenarios
Continue readingWhy Does God Let a Child Die? (Part 2) – FS 193
This time on Fruit Snacks, Steve looks at Proverbs 14 and the connection between our heart attitude, thoughts, words, and actions. There are lots of important introspective questions we should
This week begins a new difficult question as we seek to address the Problem of Evil this season on the podcast. The death of a child is always a tragedy
Continue readingWhy Does God Let a Child Die? (Part 1) – FS 191
Catching up on several weeks of Fruit Snacks, Steve and Braydee cover a wide gamut of topics and questions from the current Problem of Evil series. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/https://fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/Rooted_EP_025.mp3Podcast: Play in new
Continue readingDeep Dive: “Good” People, the Unevangelized, and Hell – RP 25
Part 5 of our interview with Pastor Jeff Royce on the impact of 2020 on the church and how Christians can maintain their witness and unity in the shifting landscape
Continue readingInterview with Pastor Jeff Royce (Part 5) – FS 190
Part 4 of our interview with Pastor Jeff Royce on the impact of 2020 on the church and how Christians can maintain their witness and unity in the shifting landscape
Continue readingInterview with Pastor Jeff Royce (Part 4) – FS 189
Part 3 of our interview with Pastor Jeff Royce on the impact of 2020 on the church and how Christians can maintain their witness and unity in the shifting landscape
Continue readingInterview with Pastor Jeff Royce (Part 3) – FS 188
Part 2 of our interview with Pastor Jeff Royce on the impact of 2020 on the church and how Christians can maintain their witness and unity in the shifting landscape
Continue readingInterview with Pastor Jeff Royce (Part 2) – FS 187
This week we take a short break from the Problem of Evil series to interview Jeff Royce, pastor of the Oasis Church in Gilbert Arizona, about the unique challenges of
Continue readingInterview with Pastor Jeff Royce (Part 1) – FS 186
Wrapping up this big question, Steve turns to a more emotionally-charged question we must consider as part of the doctrine of hell: what about my family and friends who don’t
Continue readingHow is Eternal Punishment Fair? (Part 4) – FS 185
In this episode of Fruit Snacks, we turn our attention from answering the question of the fairness of hell and look at some fascinating sociology to help us consider another
Continue readingHow is Eternal Punishment Fair? (Part 3) – FS 184
Continuing our discussion of the doctrine of hell and the fairness of eternal punishment, Steve looks at numerous examples to illustrate that, perhaps, lack of information about God, the gospel
Continue readingHow is Eternal Punishment Fair? (Part 2) – FS 183
This psalm fits right into a season focused on the problem of evil. Lamenting the seemingly endless wickedness of man, the psalmist finds himself looking to God as just judge
As we begin another big question this week, Steve discusses the doctrine of hell and why it’s so important to start from a biblical perspective. So much harm has come
Continue readingHow is Eternal Punishment Fair? (Part 1) – FS 181
This time on Fruit Snacks, we’ll conclude our discussion on “what about those who never hear the gospel?” and take a look at a significant number of scriptures to help
Continue readingThe Fate of the Unevangelized (Part 4) – FS 180
In this continuation of yesterday’s episode, Steve looks at a list of other supposed “unreached” people groups including Japan, India, Islamic countries, and Pacific islanders. Are they all “unevangelized” or
Continue readingThe Fate of the Unevangelized (Part 3) – FS 179
In answering the question about what happens to those who haven’t heard the gospel, Steve takes a look at a major country known for its hostility to Christianity: China. But,
Continue readingThe Fate of the Unevangelized (Part 2) – FS 178
Today on Fruit Snacks we look at Proverbs 13 and five characteristics or values that the righteous embody. These attributes are not only extremely valuable in the life of every
The next big question we’ll tackle in understanding the problem of evil is “What about those who never hear the gospel?” Otherwise known as the fate of the unevangelized, this
Continue readingThe Fate of the Unevangelized (Part 1) – FS 176
We finally arrive at our capstone episode on the question “Why do bad things happen to good people?” With all the evidence to the contrary, Steve brings us to the
Continue readingAre People Really “Good?” (Conclusion) – FS 175
In light of the previous episodes on the relative “goodness” of people, Steve asks and answers the question, “Why aren’t people worse?” The answer should cause all of us to
Steve continues the discussion of human violence and genocide, sharing numerous examples from around the world. Covering only relatively recent history of the last 120 years or so, today’s episode
Today we look at Psalm 13 and it’s encouragement to trust in God no matter what evil or wickedness we find ourselves surrounded by in life. We hope you find
In this second week of looking at the question, “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Steve continues a no-holds-barred look at the reality of human wickedness with a
We welcome back Braydee to his first podcast of Season 3, where he and Steve jump right in to a longer discussion on the various big questions associated with the
Closing out this week of Fruit Snacks, we look at Leviticus 18:22-23 and compare the sexually immoral practices of the Canaanite culture to the ever-darker practices we find our own
We continue our examination of just how “good” people are with a look at Leviticus 18:21 and the issue of child sacrifice in ancient times and its correlation to abortion
Today, we start the process of comparing human behavior to scripture and asking a couple of important questions. Are people really good in general? Are we more “civilized” than the
Before diving straight into the deep end of human “goodness” and “badness” as we answer “why bad things happen to good people,” Steve delves into Proverbs 12. In this passage,
As we transition to our next big question under the umbrella of the Problem of Evil, we’ll be spending the next two weeks focused on the often-asked question: why do
Continue readingWhy Do Bad Things Happen to Good People? An Overview – FS 166
As we wrap up this question of how we are connected to Adam (and therefore why we suffer for his sin), Steve offers another less-popular interpretation that deserves a hearing.
Continue readingOur Connection to Adam: Rebellious Mortality – FS 165
Moving on from Federal Headship, today we’ll look at another popular interpretive option for understanding humanity’s connection to Adam and the fall. Following yesterday’s pattern, Steve will briefly overview the
Continue readingOur Connection to Adam: Seminal Headship – FS 164
In this episode, we’ll look at what is probably the most popular interpretive option for understanding our connection to Adam – Federal Headship. We’ll look at the biblical case for
Continue readingOur Connection to Adam: Federal Headship – FS 163
This is another short (but jam-packed) Psalm with tons of immediate application to our world, culture, and lives today. Join Steve for a brief devotional out of God’s word today
This week, we’ll take a look at our first “big question,” which is “Why do we suffer for Adam’s sin?” While we’ve already addressed this more in-depth last season on
Continue readingWhat’s Our Connection to Adam? An Overview – FS 161
As we wrap up this week’s look into various Christian views on free will and the problem of evil, Steve ends with his personal viewpoint: libertarianism. After making a brief
Continue readingFree Will: A Libertarian Perspective – FS 160
Next up in t his week’s focus on Christian perspectives on free will, we look at the Compatibilist view. Also known as “soft determinism,” Steve will compare and contrast this
Continue readingFree Will: A Compatibilist Perspective – FS 159
Today, we’ll cover the determinist view of free will and offer a biblical case for it before looking at (from Steve’s perspective) some of its deficiencies and hard questions which
Continue readingFree Will: A Determinist Perspective – FS 158
In our first proverb of Season 3, Steve looks at the principle of perspective… how the wicked tend to focus on short-term gains in this life, while the righteous fix
This week, Steve covers a VERY brief overview of free will, how it relates to the problem of evil, and the pros and cons to the various positions that Christians
Continue readingLet’s Talk about Free Will (Topic Intro) – FS 156
Does the universe, with all the evil in it, make sense? That’s the crux of the evidential problem of evil and in this episode, Steve discusses how this particular question
Unlike the rational focus of yesterday’s look at the so-called logical problem of evil, today we’ll turn toward an emotionally-based problem. How can the Christian make “heart sense” of a
If evil exists, then God either isn’t good, isn’t powerful, or isn’t real! Today, Steve discusses the “logical” problem of evil, offers some brief history, and traces Christian answers to
Continuing the weekly look at a Psalm or Proverb from last season, today’s episode picks right back up with Psalm 11. In this short piece of scripture, we find some
It’s great to be back for another season of Fruit Snacks and the Rooted Podcast! In this episode, Steve covers some announcements and gives an overview of the main topical
Today is the last episode of Season 2 of the Rooted Podcast and Fruit Snacks! But, we’ll be back shortly with a new focus and plenty of fresh content for
Continue readingSeason 2 Wrap Up / Season 3 Announcements – FS 150
In this episode, we’ll wrap up our look at doctrine and the three victories of Jesus by examining how the gospel message was God’s direct solution to the third spiritual
Continue readingThe Three Victories of Jesus (Part 3) – FS 149
Today, we’ll look at the problems that arose out of the second spiritual rebellion recorded in the Bible found in Genesis 6:1-5 and expounded upon in the Jewish text known
Continue readingThe Three Victories of Jesus (Part 2) – FS 148
In today’s proverb, we take a look at how the Bible describes and contrasts the actions and words of the righteous versus the wicked, as well as the consequences God
This week, we put a bow on Season 2’s focus on doctrine by taking a holistic and big-picture approach to how some of what we’ve discussed about the Old Testament
Continue readingThe Three Victories of Jesus (Part 1) – FS 146
While we tend to assume that “saved” in the Bible always refers to eternal life in heaven, that’s not the case at all. In this episode, we’ll examine how the
Can you lose salvation? In this’s week’s focus on the doctrine of salvation, it’s only fair that we dedicate an episode to this highly contentious and often-debated question. Join Steve
Today, we’ll jump into James chapter 2 to take a peek into exactly what James is arguing for with his “justifed by works” examples using Abraham and Rahab. We’ll also
This may not be a “feel good” Psalm, but it sure is a timely one given the current state of our world. Why does it seem like God is hidden
On the heels of last week’s bad news (the doctrines of sin and death) comes the best news ever: the doctrine of salvation! Join Steve this week for a closer
Today, Braydee and Steve debrief the two-week series on Fruit Snacks covering good and bad spiritual beings and what the Bible does (and does not) say about them. Join us
Today on Fruit Snacks, we wrap up our focus on sin and death by looking at how the Bible says death will ultimately be dealt with, as well as the
Continue readingThe Doctrines of Sin and Death (Part 3) – FS 140
If Christians are really transformed from the inside, as the Bible teaches… then why do we still sin? Shouldn’t we be sinless? Or, is sinless perfection something that is attainable
In part two of this week’s doctrinal focus, we’ll take a look at Romans 5 and Hebrews 10 to see just how Adam and Jesus are directly compared in scripture.
Continue readingThe Doctrines of Sin and Death (Part 2) – FS 138
In this parable, we see some interesting insights into the state of people in the life to come based on Jesus’ own teaching. Check out today’s episode to learn more
Continue readingThe Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus – FS 137
Leading directly from last week’s focus on the doctrine of mankind, we’ll focus this week mostly on two inter-related doctrines: sin and death. How exactly are these related and what
Continue readingThe Doctrines of Sin and Death (Part 1) FS – 136
This time, our focus on the doctrine of man centers around the ultimate destinies for humans… both heaven and hell. How are these described biblically and how is it that
You’ve probably heard the phrase before, but what does it really mean to take the Lord’s name in vain? Is it just avoiding a certain word or phrase? Or is
Continue readingWhat is “Taking God’s Name in Vain,” Exactly? – FS 134
In this episode, we’ll look more closely at just what went wrong in Eden and how it impacted humanity moving forward. What happened to the image of God as a
In this proverb, we find so much practical insight for how to live well and deal with those who, frankly, aren’t actually interested in pursuing truth. How should we respond
Moving on from our past two weeks on spiritual beings, this week we’ll focus on the doctrine of mankind. What does the Bible say about our original purpose, what has
In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Steve and Braydee discuss the previous Fruit Snacks episodes on Israelite cosmology and how we can trace their thinking throughout various passages in
As we conclude this week’s focus on spiritual evil, we’re going to examine the nature of demons, including what we know biblically as well as what was culturally accepted about
As we gear up for tomorrow’s focus on demons, we first need to clear up all the “Hollywood” nonsense that simply isn’t biblical. To do that, Steve is going to
In this episode, we focus on the “big bad” of the Bible, the Devil himself. But, how much of what we know about him actually comes from the Bible? Join
During a week like this one where we’re focusing on spiritual evil, it’s good to stop and be encouraged! That’s what today and our study in Psalm 9 is all
This week, we’re looking at the other side of the spiritual realm and examining what the Bible says about spiritual evil. First up, we’re looking at a group we’ve already
Today we finally get into the spiritual beings everyone knows about… angels. But, how much of what we “know” is actually found in the Bible? For instance, did you know
Since we’re on the topic of good spiritual beings this week, let’s tackle a related question – are guardian angels a biblical belief or are they something that has sprung
We continue our discussion of spiritual beings by looking at today’s “good guys,” the cherubim and seraphim. These creatures are quite awesome and quite mischaracterized by modern depictions. Join us
Continue readingGood Spiritual Beings: Cherubim and Seraphim – FS 123
In this parable, we get a peek behind the curtain at the spiritual realm from Jesus’ perspective. Join Steve as he ties it into the larger topic for the week
This week, we’re starting a two-week series on Fruit Snacks about the heavenly realm and spiritual beings. In this first week, we’re focusing on the “good guys” and starting with
Today, Braydee and Steve go a bit further into the historical and cultural contexts surrounding the creation narrative found in Genesis 1 and discuss how the cultures and creation stories
In this episode, we wrap up our discussion on the Bible and slavery by examining how important it is to define terms clearly and establish context. The fact is, the
Continue readingDoes the Bible Endorse Slavery? (Part 3) – FS 120
The status of women in the ancient world and throughout much of history has been un-equal to that of men. But, is that how the Bible and Jesus views women?
Today, we continue the discussion on slavery in the Bible and take a closer look at the historical and cultural differences between Hebrew slavery, other forms of ancient slavery, and
Continue readingDoes the Bible Endorse Slavery? (Part 2) – FS 118
Once again, we encounter Lady Wisdom in our study of Proverbs. In this passage, however, we begin to see a close connection between the Wisdom of God personified in the
This week, we’re focusing on another apologetics topic and discussing whether or not the Bible endorses slavery. This is a charge levied against the Bible and Christians since laws for
Continue readingDoes the Bible Endorse Slavery? (Part 1) – FS 116
To bring this week’s focus on Hebrew cosmology to a close, we cover the fascinating topic of the Sea (both literal and “cosmic”) as the final third of all that
Continue readingThe Hebrew Worldview: The Sea (Part 3) – FS 115
“The abyss” is a term that can cause a certain level of discomfort, not only because of the images it conjures of bottomless darkness, but also because it’s an unfamiliar
The next topic in our tour of ancient Hebrew cosmology is the Earth, making up another one-third of all that existed in their conception of creation. However, it’s a very
Continue readingThe Hebrew Worldview: The Earth (Part 2) – FS 113
In this Psalm, which fits in well with this week’s focus, we see how the ancient Hebrew worldview comes into play and how it focused and directed the worship of
This week, we pick up from our Genesis 1 focus to continue the discussion on Hebrew cosmology, how the ancients conceived of the world, and why that worldview has a
Continue readingThe Hebrew Worldview: The Heavens (Part 1) – FS 111
This time on the Rooted Podcast, we get deep into the doctrine of the atonement and discuss several different ways this doctrine has been interpreted by various Christian groups as
Today, we wrap up our discussion of the genetic fallacy by examining its underlying assumptions and asking the question, “Are they biblical?” Are the circumstances of your birth, including both
Continue readingRecognizing and Addressing the Genetic Fallacy (Part 3) – FS 110
We often throw the word “fellowship” around as Christians and use it in lots of different (and sometimes very casual) ways… but is that how the Bible uses the term?
Today, the discussion continues regarding this common error in thinking as Steve looks at some examples and talks about the underlying assumptions made when someone commits this fallacy. Part 2
Continue readingRecognizing and Addressing the Genetic Fallacy (Part 2) – FS 108
In this famous parable of Jesus, we see some interesting insights and ties to this week’s main topic. Not only are we not bound to think, act, or “be” certain
This week, Steve examines a common error in thinking known as the genetic fallacy by discussing what it is, how we can identify it in everyday conversations, how to avoid
Continue readingRecognizing and Addressing the Genetic Fallacy (Part 1) – FS 106
This episode wraps up our focus on the ancient contexts for Genesis 1, but we’ll be continuing with more about the ancient Hebrew worldview in just a few weeks! Part
Continue readingGenesis 1 in (Ancient) Context: Part 3 – FS 105
Since we’re on the topic of creation this week, join Steve as he gives an overview of how the Bible describes Eden as both a garden and a mountain and
Today, Steve continues the discussion of the ancient worldview and cultural contexts that informed the writing of Genesis 1 and the biblical creation account. Part 2 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_103.mp3Podcast: Play
Continue readingGenesis 1 in (Ancient) Context: Part 2 – FS 103
In this Proverb, we see a rather blunt warning against the foolishness of sexual sin… and of sin in general. As we look closely, we see that this passage of
This week, we kick off a new topic looking at the creation account in Genesis 1 through the lens of ancient creation stories and the beliefs about the world that
Continue readingGenesis 1 in (Ancient) Context: Part 1 – FS 101
Today, we take a closer look at each of these divine attributes and how, in the person and work of Jesus Christ, these characteristics of God all find perfect harmony
Continue readingDeep Dive: God’s Holiness, Justice, Mercy, and Grace – RP 19
Thanks for listening to the 100th episode of Fruit Snacks! What a cool milestone for us and we’re so glad you’ve chosen to join us. Today, we wrap up the
While penal substitution may be the crown jewel of the doctrine of the atonement, it is by no means the only aspect of Jesus’ death. There have been plenty of
We continue our discussion of penal substitutionary atonement and why it is such a crucial doctrine for understanding the death and resurrection of Jesus. Part 2 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_098.mp3Podcast: Play
Do you consider God as a refuge? No matter what is happening around us, Psalm 7 assures us that God is not only perfectly just but that he will ensure
Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection are core beliefs of the Christian faith, and a necessary part of how we can be forgiven for sin. But how exactly does that work?
Today, we wrap up our discussion of the multiple contexts surrounding Leviticus 20 and the ancient Israelite laws surrounding sexual purity and conduct. Part 3 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_095.mp3Podcast: Play in
Continue readingThe Death Penalty for Gay People? The Bible in Context (Part 3) – FS 95
In this episode, we discuss the various translations of scripture that were used by the Jewish people in the first century, including Jesus and his disciples. How do these translations
Continue readingBible Translations in the Time of Jesus – FS 94
Join Steve as he looks at the historical context surrounding Leviticus 20 and how we should apply it to our thinking today with regard to LGBTQ topics and human sexuality
Continue readingThe Death Penalty for Gay People? The Bible in Context (Part 2) – FS 93
Today, we examine another parable of Jesus with quite a lot of insight into how we should think about evangelism… both in terms of what our role is (and isn’t)
This week, Steve hones in on another question from his youth group: doesn’t the Bible say that gay people are supposed to be killed in Leviticus 20:13? How are Christians
Continue readingThe Death Penalty for Gay People? The Bible in Context (Part 1) – FS 91
Braydee and Steve continue the conversation about New Testament reliability, including manuscript evidence, textual variants, and how the current manuscript evidence makes a compelling case for the reliability of modern
Continue readingDeep Dive: The Reliability of the NT – RP 18
Grace and mercy are often discussed together, but are they just synonyms or do that have distinct meanings? Join Steve as he looks at the usage of both these words
Continue readingMore Divine Attributes: Grace and Mercy – FS 90
Have you ever been accused of “causing someone to stumble?” Have you ever accused another Christian of causing you to stumble? In today’s episode, we’ll examine this phrase and take
Continue readingWhat Exactly is a “Stumbling Block?” – FS 89
God’s justice may be one of his most misunderstood attributes. A correct understanding of what it means for God to be just helps us see why God MUST judge sin
Join Steve for a short devotional out of Proverbs 6. The practical wisdom found in Proverbs is such a great (and applicable) resource for us as Christians. We hope you’ll
As we prepare to shift into some of the core doctrines of the Christian faith in the coming weeks, we first need to lay some ground work this week by
As we close this week’s main discussion on the exclusive claims of Jesus (and therefore Christians), Steve discusses how this question is used in our culture and some ways to
Today, we’ll examine how the roughly 36 hour period between Jesus’ burial and his resurrection could possibly be considered “three days” as the gospels claim. We’ll dive a bit into
Continue readingGood Friday to Easter Sunday = Three Days? – FS 84
Today on Fruit Snacks, we continue with the question of whether the Christian claims of the exclusivity Jesus are arrogant and intolerant. This time, we specifically hone in on the
Join Steve today for a short Bible study out of Psalm 6. If you’re dealing with suffering or personal turmoil (or know someone who is), this episode is for you!
Is it arrogant and intolerant of Christians to claim that Jesus is the only way to God? That’s our main topic of focus this week and, in this first episode,
Today, Braydee and Steve double back on the Fruit Snacks episodes about baptism to get into some of the finer points and clarify this doctrine a bit more. We hope
This time, we wrap up the conversation about the “sincerity trap” and how it has majorly impacted our current culture in the world today. Part 3 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_080.mp3Podcast: Play
This time on Fruit Snacks, we do a word study on “redemption” and its similarities and differences between our modern understanding and its biblical usage. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_079.mp3Podcast: Play in new window
Today, we continue the discussion of the so-called “sincerity trap” and how to decode the more foundational question at the heart of this topic. Part 2 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_078.mp3Podcast: Play
In this parable, we see not only the obvious application of the importance of being ready for Jesus’ imminent return, but also several cultural applications based in the history and
Our culture today values sincerity and passion for one’s beliefs over (almost) anything else… including the truth of those beliefs. So, how are we as Christians to think about and
On this episode we bring our discussion of the Gnostic gospels to a close as we look at several more and summarize our findings from this week’s study. Part 3
Continue reading“Lost” Gospels Left Out of the Bible (Part 3) – FS 75
On today’s Fruit Snacks, we take a closer look at Romans 5 to see what, exactly, we inherited from Adam. Spoiler alert: it isn’t a “sin nature.” Join me for
Today, we’ll continue looking at more Gnostic gospels and discussing their significance for us as Christians. Part 2 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_073.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | DownloadSubscribe: Android | Google
Continue reading“Lost” Gospels Left Out of the Bible (Part 2) – FS 73
In this proverb, we get a vivid picture of the contrast between wisdom and folly through the imagery of a young man tempted to commit adultery. We’ll not only examine
This week, we transition once again to another facet of discussing the New Testament scriptures. We’ll examine the so-called “lost” gospels and other “banned” books that were left out of
Continue reading“Lost” Gospels Left Out of the Bible (Part 1) – FS 71
Steve and Braydee discuss God’s attributes of omnipotence, omnipresence, and omniscience, diving further into the details and addressing really good questions about free will, sovereignty, the limits of God, and
In this episode, we wrap up our discussion on the formation of the New Testament canon. Part 3 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_070.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | DownloadSubscribe: Android | Google
Continue readingThe New Testament Canon and How We Got It (Part 3) – FS 70
How our modern Christian culture conceives of the presence of God is often at odds with how scripture describes it. Much of this confusion can, unfortunately, be laid at the
Continue readingHow Should We Think about the Presence of God? – FS 69
Today, we continue our discussion on the formation of the New Testament canon. Part 2 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_068.mp3Podcast: Play in new window | DownloadSubscribe: Android | Google Podcasts | Spotify
Continue readingThe New Testament Canon and How We Got It (Part 2) – FS 68
It’s time for another Psalm! In Psalm 5, we see an interesting “preview” of the New Testament economy foreshadowed by David’s prayer to God for justice for his enemies… even
If you listened to last week’s Fruit Snacks, you know the text of the New Testament is rock solid. But how do we know that we got all the books
Continue readingThe New Testament Canon and How We Got It (Part 1) – FS 66
Today, we’ll wrap up our closer look at the biblical manuscripts by examining three of the most important textual variants the New Testament has the offer. By the end, I
Continue readingThe Reliability of the New Testament (Part 3) – FS 65
We take a less-traveled side road in today’s episode as we discuss just how well-read the authors of the New Testament were… and the answer may surprise you! Some of
Continue readingThe Biblical Writers Read Other Books – FS 64
Join us as we continue our overview of textual criticism, manuscript variants, and their impact on the trustworthiness of the Bible. Part 2 of 3. https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_063.mp3Podcast: Play in new window
Continue readingThe Reliability of the New Testament (Part 2) – FS 63
In this parable of Jesus, we see a picture of the history of Israel, the prophets, Jesus himself, and his Church. Depending on what aspects you emphasize, this parable can
Get ready to join us on another deep dive as we explore the reliability of the New Testament manuscripts and examine the differences found within them. How problematic is it
Continue readingThe Reliability of the New Testament (Part 1) – FS 61
Braydee and Steve debrief Fruit Snacks episodes 41, 43, and 45 on the Trinity, answering questions and discussing the nuances of how to think biblically and consistently about this important
The Bible affirms that no one is like God and that we cannot fathom him in places like Job and the Psalms. And yet, scripture also affirms that God has
Continue readingMore Attributes of God: Transcendent, yet Immanent – FS 60
Who were the Pharisees, the Sadducees, and the Essenes during the time of Jesus? What did they believe? They differed in some pretty major ways and understanding these differences helps
How should we think about God’s eternality? What does it mean to say that he is eternal, or that he never had a beginning and will never have an end?
Continue readingMore Divine Attributes: Divine Aseity (God as Eternal) – FS 58
What a GREAT piece of scripture Proverbs 4 is! In this beautiful and poetic proverb of contrasts, we see lots of insight and wisdom, from the long-term results of a
Have you ever attempted to answer the question, “What kind of thing is God?” We’re looking at more attributes of God this week and we’ll be focusing specifically on some
Continue readingMore Attributes of God: Divine Simplicity (God as a Mind) – FS 56
As we wrap up our study on the doctrine of baptism, we’ll look at what the Bible teaches baptism actually does for believers and how we should frame it. Not
Today, we’re discussing lyrics in worship music and whether or not they are given much thought by those singing them (spoiler alert: not really!) By the end of this episode,
Continue readingDo You Think about What You’re Singing? – FS 54
In this next episode on baptism, we’ll look at some beliefs or interpretations about baptism that simply don’t line up with scripture upon closer scrutiny. This one is all about
Join Steve for a short devotional out of Psalm 4. In this Psalm, we’ll discuss the faithfulness of God and how focusing on his trustworthiness in times of difficulty can
In our next doctrinal deep dive, we’re looking at baptism. What exactly is baptism for? Who is it for? And when should a person be baptized according to the Bible?
In our final episode on Sales Process Evangelism, Braydee and Steve discuss how to maintain a Christlike attitude and witness regardless of the outcome of your efforts to share the
Continue readingSales Process Evangelism: Maintaining the Relationship – RP 14
What does it mean to say that God know’s “everything?” In this episode, not only will we define omniscience, but we’ll look at several examples from scripture that just may
Continue readingGod’s “Omni” Attributes: Omniscience – FS 50
Today, we’ll examine one of my favorite arguments for the existence of God: the fine-tuning of the universe. There is an unimaginable amount of precision baked into the constants and
Today, we look at another one of God’s “omni” attributes: his omnipresence. What does it mean to say that God is everywhere? And how does that square with the doctrine
Continue readingGod’s “Omni” Attributes: Omnipresence – FS 48
What can we learn from Jesus’ parable of the laborers? Is this evidence of God’s injustice or of his abundant grace? Understanding this teaching should not only fill your heart
Welcome back to another week of Fruit Snacks! This week, we’ll examine several of God’s so-called “omni” attributes, starting with omnipotence. What does “all powerful” actually mean? And is there
Continue readingGod’s “Omni” Attributes: Omnipotence – FS 46
In our final episode on the doctrine of the Trinity, Steve focuses on the Holy Spirit. How do we know he is personal and not just some force? Why do
In this episode, Steve tackles a well-known, but often misinterpreted passage of Scripture – Job 1. Many Christians assume the identity of the “satan” figure in this chapter to be
Continue readingThe “Satan” in Job Isn’t Who You Think – FS 44
This second installment on the Trinity focuses on the person of Jesus. How can Christians claim Jesus was divine when he never actually said “I am God?” How do we
We’re back in Proverbs and this one is PACKED with content! We’d strongly encourage you to study Proverbs 3 more in-depth because it’s chock-full of amazing truth. In this episode,
Welcome to Season 2 of Fruit Snacks! In this doctrine-focused season, we’ll explore a doctrine or set of doctrines every week. This week, we’re jumping right into the deep end
We’re back for Season 2 of the Rooted Podcast! As Braydee and Steve wrap up their final episodes discussing evangelism in our modern culture, the conversation turns toward knowing when
Continue readingSales Process Evangelism: Asking for the Sale – RP 13
Hey everyone! This is a quick update on what’s happening at Rooted Productions. Basically, we’ve diminished our backlog of episodes and will be taking a short break to continue production
Next up in our mini-series on arguments for the existence of God, we come to the Kalam Cosmological Argument. How does the universe’s beginning (and all other “beginnings”) help us
Continue readingDoctrine, Apologetics, and Theology: The Kalam Cosmological Argument – FS 40
Have you ever wondered why Samaritans were treated the way they were in Jesus’ day? Or why his conversation with the woman at the well was so “scandalous?” Well, some
Continue readingBible Background: Who Were the Samaritans? – FS 39
In this word study episode of Fruit Snacks, we look at one of the most ubiquitous words in the Christian faith: “grace.” But, by examining it more carefully, we can
Today, we tackle another Psalm, which offers some eerily relevant insights into how we ought to think about topics like vengeance, justice, and retribution… even when such actions would be
Continue readingParable, Proverb, or Psalm (3P): Psalm 3 – FS 37
In this Closer Look, we examine Jesus’ nighttime conversation with Nicodemus and discover just why this Pharisee was having such a hard time grasping Jesus’ meaning. Turns out, there’s a
Continue readingA Closer Look: Jesus’ Double Meaning in John 3 – FS 36
Welcome to another episode of the Rooted Podcast. In today’s discussion, Braydee and Steve talk about how to demonstrate your faith in ways that help someone see you are “walking
Continue readingSales Process Evangelism: “Show” More, “Tell” Less – RP 12
In this episode, we examine the first in a series of apologetic arguments for the reasonableness of belief in God. The moral argument is perhaps one of the simplest, but
Continue readingDoctrine, Apologetics, and Theology: The Moral Argument for God – FS 35
Most of us have heard the story of Ruth and Boaz, but do we understand the cultural practice of the kinsman redeemer and why it is so significant for us
Continue readingBible Background: What Was a Kinsman Redeemer? – FS 34
We’ve already examined Paul’s discussion on spiritual bodies, but what does it mean to be a “spiritual” person? How do we become spiritual? And is there anything we need to
Today, Steve examines the parable of the talents for insights into how we should view our own Christian responsibilities and also how this parable should inform our view of other
Continue readingParable, Proverb, or Psalm (3P): The Parable of the Talents – FS 32
We don’t often think about the fact that our Bible’s have been deliberately translated a certain way… and that there are other translations “roads” out there not taken. One such
Continue readingA Closer Look: Faith “in” Christ or the Faith “of” Christ? – FS 31
Get ready for a walk on the philosophical side on today’s episode of Fruit Snacks. Are there any reasons at all for believing that the soul is real? Are those
Continue readingDoctrine, Apologetics, and Theology: The Case for the Soul – FS 30
On this episode of Fruit Snacks, Steve steps through the Lord’s Prayer and discusses several important ways that it functions as a road map for our own prayer lives. Join
Continue readingBible Background: A Deeper Dive into the Lord’s Prayer – FS 29
In this word study episode, Steve tackles two phrases unique to Matthew and looks to the context to help uncover more of the possible meaning behind these vague, and often
When was the last time you prayed and asked God for wisdom? Today, we continue in Proverbs by taking a look at how wisdom is acquired and both the benefits
Continue readingParable, Proverb, or Psalm (3P): Proverbs 2 – FS 27
We often hear Christian phrases thrown around about “not seeing any fruit” in a person’s life… but is that actually a biblical assessment? Join Steve in today’s Closer Look as
Continue readingA Closer Look: What is the Opposite of “Good Fruit?” – FS 26
In this episode, Braydee and Steve continue their discussion of how to maximize your effectiveness when you finally are given the opportunity to share your beliefs and perspective with someone
Continue readingSales Process Evangelism: Three Presentation Tools – RP 11
The Bible contains some downright weird stuff at times, and Ezekiel’s vision in the first chapter of his book is a prime example. But, did he see a UFO or
Have you ever wondered about some of the Old Testament laws and practices? While they all had significance and meaning for Israel, one in particular stands out… the year of
Continue readingBible Background: The Year of Jubilee and its Significance for Us – FS 24
In this episode, we’ll compare our modern concept of foolishness with the Bible’s definition. And boy, they are definitely not the same! This one will challenge us all to keep
Continue readingWord Study: What Does It Mean to Be “Foolish?” – FS 23
Psalm 2 contains some very interesting content and, quite possibly, strong messianic allusions. Join Steve for a quick dive into some pertinent observations about this second Psalm and how they
Continue readingParable, Proverb, or Psalm (3P): Psalm 2 – FS 22
Today, we’re examining another apparent contradiction in the gospel accounts and looking to ancient literature to help us resolve it. Were there two angels at the tomb, like John says
Continue readingA Closer Look: How Many Angels Were at Jesus’ Tomb? – FS 21
Today, Steve looks at a handful of the “Angel of the Lord” passages for clues to his identity… and the answer is far wilder and weird than you may have
Continue readingDoctrine, Apologetics, and Theology: Who Is the Angel of the Lord? – FS 20
This is one of our favorite examples of how cultural context can blow a passage of Scripture wide open. Join Steve as he sheds some light on how the geography
Continue readingBible Background: What Does It Actually Mean to Be “Lukewarm?” – FS 19
If you’ve ever sped through the first few verses of John 15, one verse stands out as a head-scratcher. What does verse 3 have to do with anything else? Quite
Continue readingWord Study: How “Clean” in John 15:3 Fits into the Rest of the Passage – FS 18
I guess we’re far enough into the week to stir up a little controversy! In today’s episode we look at the parable of the soils, Jesus’ explanation to his disciples,
In this episode, we discuss a seeming contradiction in Paul’s accounts of his own conversion experience in Acts 9 and Acts 22 by taking a closer look at the language
Continue readingA Closer Look: Did Paul’s Companions See But Not Hear? Or Hear But Not See? – FS 16
Steve and Braydee jump into the next phase of the evangelism “sales process” by comparing knowing your product as a salesperson to knowing your beliefs as an evangelist. How well
Continue readingSales Process Evangelism—Presentations 101: Know Your Product – RP 10
It’s such an important question, but one that many people keep asking because they’ve never been given a solid answer. In today’s episode, we take a scriptural look at what
Continue readingDoctrine, Apologetics, and Theology: How Can I Know God’s Will for My Life? – FS 15
This Bible Background episode focuses on a fairly controversial passage with a LOT of “baggage.” Entire theological systems and church models have been developed based on this verse… so no
Continue readingBible Background: Is Peter Really the “Rock” in Matthew 16:18? – FS 14
In today’s word study, we look at the infamous “don’t judge” passage found in Matthew 7 and compare it to other uses of the same Greek word in the New
Continue readingWord Study: Aren’t We Supposed to Never “Judge” Others? – FS 13
In this 3P, we’ll start the process of diving into the book of Proverbs, discussing some timely insights and encouraging reminders along the way! https://chtbl.com/track/B324GF/fruit-rooted-productions.sfo2.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/podcasts/FruitSnacks_EP_012.mp3Podcast: Play in new window |
Continue readingParable, Proverb, or Psalm (3P): Proverbs 1 – FS 12
In today’s “Closer Look,” we’ll discuss the idea of whether or not a sovereign God could ever NOT get his way. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think!
Continue readingA Closer Look: If God is Sovereign, His Will is Always Done… Right? – FS 11
Let’s cap off another week with some doctrine, apologetics, and theology! Paul talks about “spiritual bodies” throughout his letters, but isn’t that an oxymoron? It only seems that way because
Today’s Bible Background episode revolves around an interesting “creed” that Paul quotes in 1 Corinthians. Since he’s quoting it, it’s older than 1 Corinthians itself… but how much older? The
It’s “word study Wednesday,” so we’re looking at a somewhat obscure Old Testament passage to find out if a recent “interpretation” by a popular Christian worship leader holds any water.
Continue readingWord Study: Does Zephaniah 3:17 teach us to “twirl away” our problems? – FS 08
In today’s “3P,” we’ll take a look at Psalm 1 and discuss a few devotional insights that I hope you’ll find encouraging! God seems to promise that the righteous will
Continue readingParable, Proverb, or Psalm (3P): Psalm 1 – FS 07
It’s Monday, so it’s time to take a closer look at something. I’ve heard many people, Christian or otherwise, refer to the devil as “Lucifer” or “Lucifer Morningstar.” But, is
Continue readingA Closer Look: Is Satan’s “Real” Name Lucifer Morningstar? – FS 06
In this episode (recorded remotely… so please excuse any unusual sound quality issues!), Braydee and Steve discuss more effective questions and statements you can use in spiritual conversations to dig
Fruit Snacks is a five-minute podcast hosted by Steve every weekday. On Fridays, we’ll discuss a point of doctrine, a topic in the realm of apologetics, or a subject in
Continue readingDoctrine, Apologetics, and Theology: Faith and Works in James 2:24 – FS 05
Fruit Snacks is a five-minute podcast hosted by Steve every weekday. On Thursdays, we’ll take a look at some cultural or historical background that sheds more light on a passage
Fruit Snacks is a five-minute podcast hosted by Steve every weekday. On Wednesdays, we’ll do a short word study and look at its implications for how we read and think
Continue readingWord Study: Why is God’s name, “Elohim,” plural? – FS 03
Fruit Snacks is a five-minute podcast hosted by Steve every weekday. On Tuesdays, the focus is “3P,” where we’ll look at a parable, proverb, or psalm together. In this episode,
Continue readingParable, Proverb, or Psalm (3P): The Parable of the Weeds in Matthew 13 – FS 02
Fruit Snacks is a five-minute podcast hosted by Steve every weekday. On Mondays, the focus is “A Closer Look,” which covers something that requires a bit more thinking. In this
Continue readingA Closer Look: Does “Agape” Really Mean Unconditional Love? – FS 01
We take a break from our regular content to discuss the topic at the forefront of everyone’s mind – the COVID-19 virus. However, our intent with this episode is to
Continue readingReconciling our Christian Responsibilities and the Coronavirus – RP 08
In this episode, Steve and Braydee begin to look at the Needs Assessment – both what it is and how it can help steer a conversation intentionally through the use
In this episode of the Rooted Podcast, Braydee and Steve offer some low-stress methods for breaking the ice and getting to understand someone else’s perspective on spiritual things. We offer
In this episode, we discuss practical ways that every one of us can be more intentional about putting ourselves “in the way” of spiritual conversations with others. Additionally, we talk
Continue readingSales Process Evangelism: Generating “Leads” for Spiritual Conversations – RP 05
This time on the Rooted Podcast, Steve and Braydee take a look at how to apply the concept of a Sales Process from the business sphere to create a more
Continue readingWhat’s a Sales Process (And What Does It Have to Do with Jesus)? – RP 04
In this episode, Braydee and Steve look at two more hurdles that keep many of us from having the kind of frequent and fruitful spiritual conversations that we would like
Continue readingOvercoming Barriers to Sharing Your Faith (Part 2 of 2) – RP 03
In this episode, Braydee and Steve discuss one of the most common barriers to sharing our Christian faith… fear. We dive into what causes fears and anxieties to arise when
Continue readingOvercoming Barriers to Sharing Your Faith (Part 1 of 2) – RP 02
In our maiden voyage, Braydee and Steve lay out some background on their experience and education, as well as what prompted them to start the Rooted Podcast. According to Barna
