EPISODE · Nov 24, 2025 · 21 MIN
Isaac: The Quiet Patriarch — with Dr. Matthew Umbarger
from The Great Men of the Bible Series · host Iowa Catholic Radio
Guest: Dr. Matthew Umbarger — professor of theology at Newman University, PhD in Hebrew Bible, former missionary in Israel.Dr. Umbarger discusses:His personal faith journey, mission work in Israel, and conversion to CatholicismIsaac as the hinge figure between Abraham and JacobJewish interpretations of the near-sacrifice on Mount Moriah (the Akedah)Parallels between Isaac’s willingness and Christ’s sacrificeIsaac’s contemplative nature and why he is more active spiritually than he may appearThe repeated biblical pattern of the younger son rising above the olderHow covenant transforms enemies into brothers (Genesis 26 insight)Next Week: Part 2 continues with Dr. Umbarger exploring the life and lessons of Jacob.#GreatMenOfTheBible #CatholicPodcast #BibleStudy #Isaac #HebrewBible #CatholicFaith #OldTestament #ScriptureStudy #FaithFormation #SalvationHistory Iowa Catholic Radio Network Shows:Be Not Afraid with Fr. Fabian Moncada and Fr. Bruce RiebeBe Not Afraid in Spanish with Fr. Fabian MoncadaCatholic Women Now with Chris Magruder and Julie NelsonMaking It Personal with Bishop William JoensenMan Up! with Joe StopulusSunday Dive with Katie PatrizioThe Catholic Morning Show with Dr. Bo BonnerThe Daily Gospel Reflection with Fr. Nick SmithThe Uncommon Good with Bo Bonner and Dr. Bud MarrFaith and Family Finance with Gregory WaddleWant to support your favorite show? Click Here Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What this episode covers
In this episode of Great Men of the Bible, host Joe Stopulos welcomes biblical scholar Dr. Matthew Umbarger, whose journey from Protestant ministry and mission work in Israel eventually led him into the Catholic Church. Together, they explore the role of Isaac, a pivotal but often understated figure in salvation history. Dr. Umbarger sheds light on Isaac’s near-sacrifice on Mount Moriah and how Jewish tradition views his offering as prefiguring Christ’s sacrifice. The conversation also looks at Isaac’s contemplative spiritual life, his role as a hinge between Abraham and Jacob, and how covenant transforms relationships — even turning enemies into brothers. This episode is rich with biblical insight and historical context, offering listeners a deeper appreciation of Isaac’s quiet strength, spiritual leadership, and enduring impact on God’s plan.
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Isaac: The Quiet Patriarch — with Dr. Matthew Umbarger
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