212. Bible - Should Genesis Be Read Through an Ancient Near Eastern Lens?

How should we interpret Genesis 1–3—strict historical narrative or ancient theological literature shaped by its cultural world? In this episode, Old Testament scholar Dr. Arvind Menon argues that Genesis presents a unique, historically grounded account, while biblical theologian Dr. Caleb Whitfield contends that Genesis must be read through its Ancient Near Eastern framework to grasp its theological intent. Engaging the work of scholars like John Walton and N. T. Wright, this debate explores what’s truly at stake in how we read the Bible’s opening chapters.