144 episodes

A podcast about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith. Hosted by Ryan Sarver and Brian Johnson..

Ryan and Brian's Bible Bistro Ryan Sarver

    • Religion & Spirituality
    • 4.9 • 19 Ratings

A podcast about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith. Hosted by Ryan Sarver and Brian Johnson..

    A Journey of Doubt & Faith with Dr. John Castelein

    A Journey of Doubt & Faith with Dr. John Castelein

    Welcome back to Ryan's Bible Bistro, where we dive into the narratives and teachings of the faith. Today, we have the privilege of engaging with John Castelein in a discussion. John shares with us his journey, a tale of disconnection from Christianity followed by experiences that brought him back to his faith. His story unfolds with reflection and sincerity, touching upon the influences of his family, hardships, and his pursuit of understanding. John's account is poised to touch the hearts of our listeners, offering a look at the ebbs and flows of a life dedicated to faith.
    We also delve into the story of Don Sharp's mission and the emergence of Belgium's Christian church. We navigate through narratives that span from a baptism in a pond to the trials of learning English through television. This episode transcends the story of belief, intersecting with themes of education, ministry, and the search for authenticity. Our conversation intertwines experiences with insights, illuminating the journey of holding firm to one's convictions amid the challenges of life.
    As we discuss, we confront the relationship between knowledge and wisdom, belief and understanding. We recount moments of doubt and significant encounters, such as the care for a loved one with ALS, which can lead us back to a place of faith. This dialogue stands as a testament to the ways life's adversities can fortify our beliefs and serves as a reminder of the quest for truth that navigates us through our personal and shared spiritual journeys.
    So, tune in and allow this conversation to spark your own contemplations on wisdom, the pursuit of transcendence, and the continuously unfolding path of faith.
    LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistro
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistro
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmg
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6A
    Website: https://www.thebiblebistro.com
    Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

    • 1 hr 18 min
    Leviticus 11-15: Clean & Unclean

    Leviticus 11-15: Clean & Unclean

    Welcome back to the Bible Bistro, where Ryan and I have sailed to the halfway point in our exploration of Leviticus, diving deep into the world of chapters 11 to 15. This section might not top the charts as the most exhilarating, but we're here to show you just how riveting it can be. Join us as we decipher the ancient rules of purity, detailing the laws of clean versus unclean. While Leviticus may not be your first choice for a page-turner, we promise to make it worth your while as we tie these age-old ordinances to the essence of our current spiritual practices.
    This episode is all about connecting dots from dietary regulations to the complexities of handling skin diseases and bodily discharges. We'll walk you through how these seemingly outdated laws shape our understanding of the entire scriptural landscape. Our aim is to shed light on the transformative messages of Jesus found in the New Testament, rooted in these Levitical laws.
    Amidst our deep dive into the significance of holiness, we'll sprinkle in some humor and relatable cultural references to keep things lively. We tackle the heavy topics of identity and separation from pagan practices, examining how dietary laws carved out a unique space for the Israelites. The battle to extricate Egypt's cultural and spiritual influence from the hearts of God's people is as relevant today as it was then, and we're eager to unpack it for you.
    Prepare for a compelling hour as we narrate stories from the New Testament that reflect Levitical laws, like the touching account of the woman with the issue of blood and how she found healing through Jesus. Our discussion ventures into the struggles faced by the early church in integrating Gentile believers and the monumental outcomes of the Jerusalem Council that still echo in our faith practices today.
    Leviticus is far more than a list of ancient rituals—it's a treasure trove of wisdom that still reverberates with the core of Christian identity and worship. So, tune in and join the feast of thought as we unearth the enduring relevance of these ancient scriptures and how they continue to influence our lives in the modern world.
    LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistro
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistro
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmg
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6A
    Website: https://www.thebiblebistro.com
    Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

    • 57 min
    Leviticus 8: The Weight of Priesthood

    Leviticus 8: The Weight of Priesthood

    Join us at the Bible Bistro as we continue our exploration through Leviticus. Listen in as we discuss the ancient rituals of consecration, where the priests were anointed and set apart to serve the community. We ponder the challenges of initiating the sacrificial system, reflecting on the connection between holiness, consecration, and the leaders who guide their flock. Our conversation promises to deepen your understanding of these themes and hint at future guests and special location-based episodes that will enrich our theological journey.
    Embark on a journey through Leviticus with us, where we unwrap the solemn rites of ordination and consider Moses' role as a proxy high priest. Our latest episode paints a picture of the gravity and sanctity involved in ancient Israelite worship. Discover the details of priestly duties and the heavy weight of responsibility they bore. With insights into the tabernacle's anointing and the story of Aaron's sons' unauthorized sacrifice, we reveal the stern implications of approaching the divine presence without reverence.
    We examine the balance between the holy and the common, and the consequences of blurring these lines in today's spiritual landscape. We'll delve into the gravity of divine encounters and the role of ritual in connecting with the divine, all while looking forward to the contributions of our upcoming special guests, including Andrew Root. This is an episode you won't want to miss, offering a fresh perspective on how leadership and consecration serve to mirror God's majesty and glory in our lives.
    LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistro
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistro
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmg
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6A
    Website: https://www.thebiblebistro.com
    Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

    • 1 hr 2 min
    Navigating Faith & Ministry In A Secular World with Dr. Andrew Root

    Navigating Faith & Ministry In A Secular World with Dr. Andrew Root

    Join us at the Bible Bistro as we welcome Dr. Andrew Root, known as Andy, from Luther Seminary, to discuss faith and secular challenges. We dive into Andy's insights from his academic work and life in a small church community. Our conversation revolves around Charles Taylor's "A Secular Age" and Andy's books, "The Church in an Age of Secular Mysticism" and "When Church Stops Working." We examine the challenges facing faith communities today and explore ways to navigate faith formation in our secular society.
    Listen as Andy discusses the role of divine action in ministry and its relevance for our audience's faith engagement. We also consider the tension between secular pressures and transcendent faith experiences. Through personal stories and philosophical insights from Taylor, we explore the difficulty and potential of connecting believers with the divine.
    We delve into the theology of the cross and how stories of suffering can lead to moral and spiritual transformation. Andy helps us understand the impact of secularism on faith practices and offers ways to cultivate congregational life that acknowledges God's transformative work.
    In concluding our time with Andy, we address the pressing issue of church renewal in a challenging era. Reflecting on the exhaustion of competing with secular attractions, Andy advises a focus on genuine divine engagement. We discuss the implications for church leaders and present "When Church Stops Working," which aims to simplify complex ideas for a wider audience.
    Andy shares how small church communities have provided support through significant life events and how culture informs pastoral care. We also talk about secular mysticism, the rise of personal guilt in today's performance culture, and the influence of his writings on pastors seeking to rejuvenate their ministry amidst the growth of the "nones."
    LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistro
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistro
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmg
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6A
    Website: https://www.thebiblebistro.com
    Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

    • 53 min
    Leviticus 2-7: Worship, Sacrifice, & Atonement

    Leviticus 2-7: Worship, Sacrifice, & Atonement

    We delve into Leviticus 2-7, examining the various offerings detailed in the first seven chapters. We look at the different sacrifices, such as grain and fellowship offerings, and what they symbolize in terms of thankfulness, community, and recognizing God's gifts. Alongside some humorous personal tales, we gain a deeper appreciation for these ancient rituals.
    This episode also focuses on sin offerings and how an individual's social and economic status affected their sacrificial obligations. We discuss how the law's adaptability reflects God's compassion for His people. Stories from the Old Testament, like the golden calf incident and King Josiah's reforms, illustrate the ongoing theme of repentance and forgiveness.
    We also consider the importance of blood in these rituals and its connection to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. This discussion bridges the gap between ancient worship practices and contemporary Christian devotion, exploring the nature of worship and the significance of Jesus' atonement. We explore these topics, recognizing the importance of sacrifice in faith and encouraging a genuine, devoted relationship with God and community.
    LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistro
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistro
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmg
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6A
    Website: https://www.thebiblebistro.com
    Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

    • 1 hr 4 min
    Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering

    Leviticus 1: The Burnt Offering

    Explore the significance of Leviticus, a book sometimes seen as outdated, in our new podcast episode. Join us, Ryan and Brian, as we delve into one of the Bible's most challenging texts, demonstrating its ongoing importance and connection to contemporary faith. We directly address the view that Leviticus lacks relevance after Jesus and illustrate why its intricate laws are essential for understanding divine teachings.
    Leviticus is a key part of the Pentateuch that connects the narratives of Exodus and Numbers through its detailed laws and ceremonies. We discuss the historical and cultural background of this ancient scripture, noting the differences between Egyptian customs and the unique identity of the Israelites shaped by Leviticus. Blending storytelling with theological analysis, we affirm the traditional authorship of Moses and recreate the atmosphere of the Exodus era. Our discussion explores complex topics such as sin, atonement, and sacrifice, and how they relate to Christ's ultimate sacrifice.
    Conclude with a look at the reasons for Leviticus's burnt offerings and the concept of ritual purity, which pave the way for the New Testament's depiction of Jesus. We consider the tangible and emotional aspects of these ceremonies and their importance in conveying the concept of substitutionary atonement. We highlight how the sacrificial system included everyone, ensuring that people of all social ranks could engage in the collective path to reconciliation with God. Tune in as we investigate the lasting messages of Leviticus, equipping you to better appreciate the significance of Jesus' sacrifice.
    (00:12) Understanding the Book of Leviticus
    Leviticus is often overlooked, but we argue for its value as God's Word and offer guidance for reading its arcane rituals.

    (07:58) Understanding the Book of Leviticus
    Leviticus is a central book in the Pentateuch, revealing God's character through laws and narratives, set during the Exodus period.

    (16:11) Interpreting Leviticus in Its Cultural Context
    Egyptian culture's influence on Israelites, social imaginary, Leviticus laws, setting apart from past and future encounters.

    (23:08) Understanding Sin and Leviticus
    Leviticus is a vital part of God's Word, discussing societal vs. divine perspectives on sin and the nature of sin from human and God's viewpoints.

    (35:09) Understanding the Purpose of Burnt Offerings
    Ancient Israelite worship involved costly burnt offerings of unblemished male animals to maintain a right standing with God. Jesus is referenced as a sacrifice, and laying hands on the offering symbolizes substitutionary atonement.

    (48:35) Significance of Sacrifices in Leviticus
    Nature's sacrifices taught about substitutionary atonement and inclusivity, preparing believers for Christ's ultimate sacrifice.

    LinksSupport Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thebiblebistro
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebiblebistro
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebiblebistro/
    Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3H7qRmg
    Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3I7Gw6A
    Website: https://www.thebiblebistro.com
    Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is a podcast

    • 58 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
19 Ratings

19 Ratings

Mick Marvel ,

One of Christianity’s Best!

If you’re looking for entertaining conversation that is also deepens your study in the Bible, Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro is for you! This podcast is all about the Bible, with great theology and no hidden agenda. The back and fourth banter, the cultural backstory to the scriptures, and a slew of guests always keeps my attention, and I’m constantly looking forward to the next episode.

mike strunga ,

Deep theology in simple terms

Brian and Ryan are down to earth and conversational as they approach difficult and interesting biblical topics. I had Brian as a freshman in Bible college and it feels like I’m in his class again. This podcast is also simple enough for a teen to understand, but it gives topics the thoughtfulness they deserve in higher education.

kirbycrook ,

Great podcast about a wide range of topics in the Bible

Awesome podcast for anyone wanting to learn more about the Bible. Ryan and Brian tackle tough-to-grasp concepts

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