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The Word of Pod

The Word of Pod

By Matthew R. Steinfeld

Welcome to The Word of Pod, a podcast about the story of the Bible and relevant discussions of its text.
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Philippians 1:12-26 / Competition, Passion, and Purpose

The Word of PodApr 23, 2020

00:00
35:27
Galatians 6:11-18 / Effective Religion Is A New Creation

Galatians 6:11-18 / Effective Religion Is A New Creation

Paul ends his letter to the Galatians by challenging them to look at the product of their religion. It is actually changing them into new people or simply a self-focus source of pride?

Jun 15, 202122:51
Galatians 6:1-10 / The Responsibility of the Mature

Galatians 6:1-10 / The Responsibility of the Mature

If one is truly mature in Christ they will seek the benefit of others, especially those in need. Also, when they complete their duty they will not seek glory as if they did something special but rather that it was what they ought to have done. 

Jun 08, 202126:08
Galatians 5:16-26 / The Choice of Two Paths

Galatians 5:16-26 / The Choice of Two Paths

In this passage, Paul walks through the two paths of life that each person must choose on a consistent basis: either the way of the flesh or the way of the Spirit.

Jun 01, 202127:15
Galatians 5:1-15 - Slavery and The Purpose of Freedom

Galatians 5:1-15 - Slavery and The Purpose of Freedom

Paul transitions his argumentation toward the purpose of freedom and how the Galatians, in their pursuit of holiness, are actually abandoning their righteousness by going back to spiritual slavery. 

May 26, 202130:39
Galatians 4:21-31 - An Allegory of Two Women

Galatians 4:21-31 - An Allegory of Two Women

Paul continues in his argumentation against the Galatians and now turns to allegory.

May 18, 202128:38
Galatians 4:8-20 - Paul's Personal Appeal

Galatians 4:8-20 - Paul's Personal Appeal

This episode covers Paul's transition from logic-based theology to personal appeal in his attempt to convince the Galatians they have abandoned their faith and him in their pursuit of Judaism. 

May 12, 202134:59
Galatians 3:26-4:7 - Clothed in Christ and Heirs Through Faith

Galatians 3:26-4:7 - Clothed in Christ and Heirs Through Faith

This episode explores the equality under both sin and therefore the gospel through faith. Those who are of this faith are the heirs of the promise given to Abraham.

May 05, 202127:30
Galatians 3:15-25 - The Seed and Promise to Abraham

Galatians 3:15-25 - The Seed and Promise to Abraham

This episode discusses Paul's interpretation of the promise to Abraham, that the Messiah is the "seed" mentioned in the promise given to Abraham from God.

Apr 28, 202139:29
Galatians 3:1-14 - "The Foolish Galatians" and Their New Allegiance

Galatians 3:1-14 - "The Foolish Galatians" and Their New Allegiance

This episode discusses Paul's argument that the Galatians are turning against the Gospel and truth they once believed by their new desire to be back under the Law of Moses. 

Apr 22, 202131:32
Galatians 2:11-21 - The Law and Faith

Galatians 2:11-21 - The Law and Faith

In this passage, Paul speaks about the role of the law of Moses and how the promise of salvation through faith compare in the life of the Christian.

Apr 15, 202140:02
Galatians 2:1-10 - The Jerusalem Council

Galatians 2:1-10 - The Jerusalem Council

In the episode, we discuss the issue of Jewish ceremonial practices based on the Law of Moses and the conflict that arose in the early church surrounding their importance. 

Apr 03, 202125:01
Galatians 1:11-24 - Paul's Past

Galatians 1:11-24 - Paul's Past

This episode explores Paul's statements about his past and ultimately how they did not accomplish what he was seeking and what the Galatians are now seeking.

Mar 25, 202124:32
Galatians 1:1-10 - Authority of the Gospel and Confrontation

Galatians 1:1-10 - Authority of the Gospel and Confrontation

This is the first episode of season 7, which is our coverage of Paul's epistle to the Galatians. He begins his introduction with the authority and source of his gospel message. He then confronts the Galatians for their turning to what he calls a "false gospel".

Mar 20, 202130:02
2 Peter 3:11-18 - Therefore, How Shall We Live?

2 Peter 3:11-18 - Therefore, How Shall We Live?

This episode wraps up season 6 and 2 Peter with a strong call to continue to live in a disciplined way that focuses on the gospel and not potential teachings that might sound good but are destructive. 

Mar 13, 202134:40
2 Peter 3:1-10 - The Day of the Lord and Doubters

2 Peter 3:1-10 - The Day of the Lord and Doubters

This episode begins chapter 3 and Peter's call to remember the teachings of Christ. This is essential in a time when doubters will try to convince those of faith that they believe in vain. 

Mar 03, 202123:28
2 Peter 2:12-22 / False Teachers and Their Tactics

2 Peter 2:12-22 / False Teachers and Their Tactics

This section continues on the description of false teachers and their approach to weaker Christians who are seeking relief from the often troubling  experiences of a Christ-follower.

Feb 22, 202139:43
2 Peter 2:1-11 / The Coming False Teachers and Their Motivations

2 Peter 2:1-11 / The Coming False Teachers and Their Motivations

Peter begins chapter two with a discussion of the coming of false teachers in the church, the main departure of their teaching being their denial of Jesus.

Feb 19, 202132:38
2 Peter 1:12-21 / The Source of the Message

2 Peter 1:12-21 / The Source of the Message

This episode gets into the details of the source of Peter's message and why it can be trusted. 

Feb 11, 202129:54
2 Peter 1:1-11 / Introduction and Supporting One's Faith

2 Peter 1:1-11 / Introduction and Supporting One's Faith

As we kick off this book/letter, we discuss some issues pertaining to the reception of the letter. Peter claims God's divine power is given to the Christian and the response to such a gift ultimately determines how the gospel changes the life of the believer. 

Feb 06, 202135:56
1 Peter 5:1-14 / Leadership and Humility in the Church

1 Peter 5:1-14 / Leadership and Humility in the Church

This season finale wraps up 1 Peter as he addresses the need for leaders to lead, and the church to follow, with humility and affection in accordance with the life and actions of Jesus.

Feb 02, 202144:28
1 Peter 4:12-19 / God's Desire For Good During Suffering

1 Peter 4:12-19 / God's Desire For Good During Suffering

This section reveals Peter's understanding of how God uses suffering in the life of the Christian to reveal the true nature of God and the value of the gospel.

Jan 27, 202128:02
1 Peter 4:1-11 / The Will of God and Desires of the Flesh

1 Peter 4:1-11 / The Will of God and Desires of the Flesh

This section explores the comparison between the work and suffering Jesus versus the indulgence of the "pagan" libertines seeking their own pleasure who are undisturbed by the future judgment of God.

Jan 22, 202136:32
1 Peter 3:8-22 / The Christian Response to Suffering

1 Peter 3:8-22 / The Christian Response to Suffering

Peter begins to conclude his letter to the Diaspora (scattered Christians across the Empire) focusing the proper perspective and response to suffering in a world that is against the teachings of Jesus. 

Jan 15, 202146:09
1 Peter 3:1-7 / Submitting For Christ's Sake In Marriage

1 Peter 3:1-7 / Submitting For Christ's Sake In Marriage

Though this text has been misused to propagate inequality, this passage is actually advocates for the Christian response of those who find themselves  both in positions of power or lack thereof in the conventional spectrums of social and domestic inequality.


Oct 30, 202050:28
1 Peter 2:13-25 / Submitting For Christ's Sake

1 Peter 2:13-25 / Submitting For Christ's Sake

This text is a controversial passage about being willing to submit unto death, like Christ, for the sake of the gospel and a testimony for God. 

Oct 22, 202034:24
1 Peter 2:1-12 / Becoming the People of God

1 Peter 2:1-12 / Becoming the People of God

This text is full of metaphor and imagery concerning the church and it's members. Peter relays to his struggling audience that they are chosen, special, and developing through the past and present work of Jesus. 

Oct 16, 202038:24
1 Peter 1:13-25 / Being Mindful and Prepared to Live Holy

1 Peter 1:13-25 / Being Mindful and Prepared to Live Holy

In light of the present inheritance and future salvation to be gained from the return of Christ, those who suffer and experience hardship should live a life ready to serve and love genuinely as they are loved by Jesus Christ. 

Oct 09, 202032:40
1 Peter 1:1-12 / Introduction and the Refining of Sojourners

1 Peter 1:1-12 / Introduction and the Refining of Sojourners

This episode introduces the first letter of Peter to the diaspora (exiled) Christians who are experiencing alienation and suffering as they seek to follow the life of Jesus Christ. Peter relates to them their hope and future despite their present circumstances.

Oct 01, 202045:45
Matthew 7:24-29 / The Houses on Rock and Sand

Matthew 7:24-29 / The Houses on Rock and Sand

This text wraps up Jesus teaching about him in both literal and spiritual metaphor. This series of teachings  known as the Sermon on the Mount is ultimately a revelation of who Jesus is, leaving them in amazement that Jesus can authoritatively speak about he Kingdom of God as the true Messiah. 

Sep 25, 202032:09
Matthew 7:15-23 / False Prophets and Knowing Jesus

Matthew 7:15-23 / False Prophets and Knowing Jesus

In this text, Jesus warns against false prophets and those who appear to follow God but who's deeds are not in fact for God. There are many, he explains, that do good deeds but in fact do not know Jesus, and, therefore, are not a true a disciple. 

Sep 18, 202032:09
Matthew 7:7-14 / Asking and the Narrow Door

Matthew 7:7-14 / Asking and the Narrow Door

Jesus explains that the narrow door that leads to the Kingdom of God is narrow, difficult to get through, yet is accessible by request only. 

Sep 11, 202025:54
Matthew 7:1-6 / The Repercussions and Motivation of Judging Others

Matthew 7:1-6 / The Repercussions and Motivation of Judging Others

Jesus  warns about the repercussions of judging others and implies that the source of judgment can orginate in one's own sin: both trying to cover it up or being blind to it.  

Sep 04, 202033:56
Matthew 6:25-34 / Worry and Seeking the Kingdom

Matthew 6:25-34 / Worry and Seeking the Kingdom

Jesus  teaches about worry (anxiety) and how it relates to ones perspective of the Kingdom. Jesus contrasts the nature of survival of the individual in contrast to the experience of one's life as the measure of true dependence 

Aug 29, 202031:05
Matthew 6:19-24 / On Serving God and Money

Matthew 6:19-24 / On Serving God and Money

Jesus teaches on the pitfalls of having one's heart set on money/wealth instead of "investing" on the treasures of heaven.

Aug 21, 202032:19
Matthew 6:5-15 / Jesus Teaches How to Pray

Matthew 6:5-15 / Jesus Teaches How to Pray

Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray, and the reward within this practice in comparison to those who would practice their religion publicly for praise.

Aug 13, 202036:06
Matthew 6:1-4; 16-18 / Public Worship and True Motivations

Matthew 6:1-4; 16-18 / Public Worship and True Motivations

These texts, which are bookends to the Lord's Prayer, pinpoint motivations of public worship and therefore demonstrate the true beliefs and hope of the individual. 

Jul 31, 202034:28
Matthew 5:38-48 / Love Your Enemies and Be Perfect!

Matthew 5:38-48 / Love Your Enemies and Be Perfect!

This episode reaches the punchline of Jesus' Sermon which should lead his listeners to the ultimate question "How then shall I enter the Kingdom of Heaven?" Perfection is required. Love for one's enemies is required. Above and beyond maturity and completeness, equal to God Himself.
Jul 26, 202025:46
Matthew 5:27-37 / Adultery and the Breaking of Covenants

Matthew 5:27-37 / Adultery and the Breaking of Covenants

This episode continues Jesus aggressive condemnation against practices that would have been relevant to his audience. As he continues his raising of moralistic standards, he causes his audience to question their righteousness and ability to follow the law. 


Jul 19, 202030:16
Matthew 5:21-26 / Judgment and the Disciple's View of Grace

Matthew 5:21-26 / Judgment and the Disciple's View of Grace

This episode explores the idea that if one is not able to extend grace to someone else, then they do not understand the grace that they have recieved. Because of this, one might be in danger of their own wrong doing which will result in judgment. The metaphor is extended to include a cosmic judgment, with Satan as prosecutor, and it is imperative one "deals with" the accusations before the court is in session. 

Jul 11, 202035:08
Matthew 5:12-20 / Salt, Light, and Impossible Righteousness

Matthew 5:12-20 / Salt, Light, and Impossible Righteousness

This episode transitions into the text where Jesus calls his followers "salt" and "light" and how his own ministry on earth is to fulfill the Law. This raises the question of "How can one become righteous if the Law is not abolished?" Jesus challenges the thinking of his followers which is his goal to get them to question what it is that they are trusting for godliness: their own moral lives or something else.

Jul 02, 202032:50
Matthew 5:1-11 / The Beginning and Promise of Blessing

Matthew 5:1-11 / The Beginning and Promise of Blessing

This episode is the beginning of Season 4 and the Sermon on the Mount. This text begins Jesus's message of an echatological breakthrough into the present world for those who are currently seeking him for change. Though this is clearly before Jesus' death and resurrection, it is his introduction to what they faithful would have in store, that is, assuming they except his terms. 

Jun 25, 202035:17
Philippians 4:10-23 / The Sharing of Tribulations and Support

Philippians 4:10-23 / The Sharing of Tribulations and Support

This season finale of Paul's Letter to the Philippians displays much of Paul's perspective. He is very much thankful for the support he has recieved from the Philippians, but what he wants more is there own growth in Christ. He has relayed his growing perspective, in the midst of his suffering, in order that he might instill in them the same growth and maturity in their Christian life. 

Jun 17, 202038:10
Philippians 4:1-9 / Praise and Mindset in the Midst of Suffering

Philippians 4:1-9 / Praise and Mindset in the Midst of Suffering

This particular passage reveals Paul's own perspective as he faces prison and encourages the Philippians in their own hardships. He tells them to rejoice and focus on the good things God has provided. God's power shows up in the midst of actively pursuing the life and perspective of Jesus. 

Jun 11, 202026:50
Philippians 3:12-22 / Attaining To That Which Has Been Accomplished

Philippians 3:12-22 / Attaining To That Which Has Been Accomplished

In this passage, Paul admits he has not attained the full benefits of being in Christ, yet he strives on toward his goal like an athlete in the games. He forgets the losses, the sins, behind him and strives toward his goal. He urges the Philippians to do the same as they, and he, continue to suffer.

Jun 02, 202025:34
Philippians 3:1-11 / Gratitude and Not Relying on Accomplishments

Philippians 3:1-11 / Gratitude and Not Relying on Accomplishments

This passage tells of Paul's safeguard against suffering and how he has transitioned from trusting his abilities and following of the law to attaining salvation through Christ and participating in his suffering.

May 28, 202039:40
Philippians 2:19-30 / Letter Couriers and Genuine Service

Philippians 2:19-30 / Letter Couriers and Genuine Service

This particular passage, though it may appear mundane or insignificant, gives an indirect account of both Paul's heart and motivations, but also those of the early churches he has been working with. Service and a genuine interest in others is always a reflection of the life of Christ in Paul's message to the Philippians. 



May 21, 202023:12
Philippians 2:12-18 / Working Out Salvation to Shine

Philippians 2:12-18 / Working Out Salvation to Shine

Paul encourages the Philippians to seize (or achieve) the salvation that they have already been given, to actually a continue what they have been doing, in order that they might fulfill their role in the world as representatives of Christ. This, Paul says, will allow him to rejoice that all of his work was not in vain. 


May 14, 202038:31
Philippians 2:1-11 / A Reminder of Christ's Obedience

Philippians 2:1-11 / A Reminder of Christ's Obedience

Paul reminds the Philippians that their humility, compassion, patience and forgiveness of others is not just simply a moralistic response of duty, but rather a reaction to the same that has been received from God through Jesus Christ. That such obedience and service is exactly what Jesus had done in his earthly ministry. 


May 08, 202034:52
Philippians 1:12-2:4 / Appointed to Suffer

Philippians 1:12-2:4 / Appointed to Suffer

Paul begins to transition the conversation with the Philippians toward suffering and the purpose of the Christian: to live in a way that is worthy of the gospel of Christ. While he doesn't focus on service as a means to salvation, he does suggest that service comes out of one's joy and gratitude in regard to salvation. 

Apr 30, 202026:54
Philippians 1:12-26 / Competition, Passion, and Purpose

Philippians 1:12-26 / Competition, Passion, and Purpose

As Paul sits in prison, he indirectly shares his thoughts which are meant to encourage the Philippian church, but also give us a glimpse into Paul's own development and growth in a challenging time. 


Apr 23, 202035:27