Getting Wisdom

PODCAST · religion

Getting Wisdom

A podcast for thoughtful Christians seeking timeless wisdom in the words of Scripture and the Church Fathers. Hosts Myron Steeves and Martin Isreb offer calm, reverent conversation on classical theology, philosophy, and Christian living."Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."—Proverbs 4:7Visit www.gettingwisdom.org for show notes & reference guides.

  1. 53

    Conviviality

    Myron and Martin discuss Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life and the norms regarding faith-centered dialogue with friends and strangers. In today's readings, Aquinas reflects on angelic knowledge, while Calvin writes on imagery and the hazards of idolatry in worship."For when once men imagined that they beheld God in images, they also worshipped him as being there."—Calvin's Institutes, 1.11.905:13 Rules of Civility: Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life29:57 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q58–59)46:59 Institutes (1.11.9–16)

  2. 52

    Divided Attention

    Myron and Martin reflect on the erosion of family-centered wisdom before turning to modern challenges of civility in conversation, a roadside look at Baylor’s origins, Aquinas on angels and the limits of their knowledge, and Calvin on the dangers and distortions of religious imagery." Show the things that are to come here after, and we shall know that you are Gods."—Isaiah 41:2304:31 Opening Reflections: Generational wisdom31:11 Rules of Civility: Undivided Attention 45:00 Roadside Attractions: Baylor University49:39 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q51–57)1:09:55 Institutes (1.11.5–8)

  3. 51

    Seven Kinds of Prayer

    In this first episode of Season Three, Myron and Martin reflect on types of prayer, a civility rule on distraction and electronic interruptions, and a closing meditation on Calvin’s vision of creation as a summons to rejoice."There is not one blade of grass, there is no color in this world that is not intended to make us rejoice."—John Calvin, Sermon No. 10 on 1 Corinthians01:20 Opening Reflections: Prayer26:40 Roadside Attractions: San Diego40:35 Rules of Civility: Distraction53:06 Calvin's sermon

  4. 50

    Forge of Idols

    In this final episode of Season 2, Myron and Martin reflect on the formation of Christian ethics while reading Aquinas on angels and the immaterial order and Calvin on images, idolatry, and the unseen nature of God."The human mind is, so to speak, a perpetual forge of idols."—Calvin's Institutes, 1.11.801:02 Opening Reflections: Christian ethics25:11 Roadside Attractions: San Diego41:14 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q50)1:08:42 Institutes (1.11.1-16)

  5. 49

    Persona Non Grata: Donors and Dissidents in the Ivy League

    In this guest episode, Myron and Martin are joined by Cornell alumnus Carl Neuss, who recounts his shift from major donor to organized opposition of institutional capture. He describes how ideological drift, donor leverage, media exposure, and external pressure converged to challenge the university’s departure from free speech, Western tradition, and Christian foundations.Cornell Free Speech Alliance: https://www.cornellfreespeech.org/00:18 Guest Introduction: Carl Neuss01:04 Cornell, then and now28:02 Cornell Free Speech Alliance41:15 Removing Ivy League presidents1:01:06 Why are people terrified of changing the status quo? 1:13:12 Closing question

  6. 48

    High Station

    Myron and Martin reflect on the modern expectation of “knowing God’s will,” arguing that Christian maturity consists not in waiting for divine signals but in exercising wisdom, agency, and judgment—before turning to civility across social ranks, Aquinas on good and evil, and Calvin on Scripture’s testimony to the one true God."For I know that my redeemer liveth"—Job 19:2503:19 Opening Reflections: Praying for guidance30:45 Roadside Attractions: Arizona42:58 Rules of Civility: Social status59:43 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q47–49)1:14:39 Institutes (1.10.1-3)

  7. 47

    Rightly Ordered

    Myron and Martin reflect on Christian time management as an ordering of life toward worship, work, and virtue. Today’s civility discussion balances flattery and sincerity. In the readings, Aquinas turns to the procession of all creation from God, while Calvin defends Scripture’s credibility through prophecy, history, and witness. "All beings apart from God are not their own being, but are beings by participation."—Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q4402:11 Opening Reflections: Time management37:35 Roadside Attractions: Los Angeles51:49 Rules of Civility: Flattery1:03:32 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q44)1:09:47 Institutes (1.8.8-13)

  8. 46

    The Klappvisier Principle

    Myron and Martin return to the topic of growth in knowledge and curiosity and discuss dining etiquette. In today’s readings, Aquinas wrestles with the ineffable mystery of the Trinity, while Calvin highlights how Scripture’s long-fulfilled promises reveal its divine authorship."When David is anointed by Samuel, what apparent ground is there for the transference? Who could have looked for a king out of the plebeian family of a herdsman? And out of seven brothers, who could have thought that the honour was destined for the youngest?"—Institutes, 1.8.701:43 Opening Reflections: The Klappvisier Principle23:36 Roadside Attractions: The Iron Door, estd. 185231:12 Rules of Civility: Rules for Food & Drink53:25 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q40–43)59:23 Institutes (1.8.6–7)

  9. 45

    Tithing Your Time

    Myron and Martin reflect on tithing time with intention. They discuss another of George Washington's Rules of Civility—this one on pointing, crossing legs, and fidgeting. In today’s readings, Aquinas offers a dense meditation on the nature of the Trinity, while Calvin affirms Scripture’s divine authority through its revelation to undistinguished observers."[Moses] remaining there forty days separated from human society; his countenance glistening during the promulgation of the law, as with meridian effulgence; the lightnings which flashed on every side; the voices and thunderings which echoed in the air; the clang of the trumpet blown by no human mouth; his entrance into the tabernacle, while a cloud hid him from the view of the people; the miraculous vindication of his authority..."— Institutes, 1.8.504:21 Opening Reflections: Embracing adulthood12:34 Tithing your time27:13 The classics34:20 Rules of Civlity: Fidgeting 39:41 Roadside Attractions: The Ark Encounter46:08 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q39)54:37 Institutes (1.8.1-5)

  10. 44

    Fellowship, These Days

    Myron and Martin reflect on honoring God through daily choices, the value of wisdom earned over time, and resisting modern distractions that erode purpose and friendship. In today’s readings, Aquinas explores the language of the Trinity, while Calvin defends the role of Holy Spirit in affirming Scripture."The Spirit is called an earnest and seal to confirm the faith of the godly."– Institutes, John Calvin, 1.7.4 01:07 Opening Reflections: Generational wisdom11:00 Fellowship and making friends22:05 Planning your time28:41 Assassination of Charlie Kirk35:40 Roadside Attractions: Niagara Falls by bike42:07 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q36)47:41 Institutes (1.7.3–5)

  11. 43

    What Angels Cannot Do

    Myron and Martin reflect on the freedom God gives us to choose well—or poorly. In today’s readings, Aquinas examines the name “Father” as a personal name of God, while Calvin affirms that Scripture reveals God more clearly than any other source. Today's roadside attraction is a beignet café in New Orleans, and today's civility rule addresses the subtle etiquette of accepting an invitation to stay as a houseguest."Scripture bears upon the face of it as clear evidence of its truth, as white and black do of their colour, sweet and bitter of their taste."—Institutes, 1.7.202:33 Opening Reflections: On moral choices and modern comforts27:19 Rules of Civility: Accept after one refusal41:36 Roadside Attractions: Café Du Monde46:32 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q35)58:56 Institutes (1.6.3–1.7.2)

  12. 42

    Unenviable Circumstances

    Myron and Martin explore the relationship between free will and divine providence, how worship can deepen through suffering, and the quiet blessings we overlook in daily life. In today's readings, Calvin urges us to begin with Scripture to know God rightly, while Aquinas reflects on Christ as the eternal Word."For not only does faith, full and perfect faith, but all correct knowledge of God, originate in obedience. And surely in this respect God has with singular Providence provided for mankind in all ages."— Institutes, 1.6.203:50: Opening Reflections: Free will10:13 Worship through difficulty24:24 Roadside Attractions: Quail Trail34:31 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q34)41:55 Institutes (1.6.2)

  13. 41

    Spectacles and Scripture

    Myron and Martin return with a mini episode today, reflecting on a volcanic national park and the usual readings. Aquinas explores the personal name of God as Father, while Calvin considers how Scripture illuminates Him."So Scripture, gathering together the impressions of Deity, which, till then, lay confused in our minds, dissipates the darkness, and shows us the true God clearly."— Institutes, 1.6.100:27 Roadside Attraction: Lassen Volcanic National Park14:41 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q33)19:28 Institutes (1.6.1)

  14. 40

    Latecomers

    In this episode, Myron and Martin take a break from the Aquinas and Calvin readings to reflect on discernment and etiquette. They discuss the temptation to leave difficult decisions up to God, the social customs of sitting and standing, and how structured traditions can relieve anxiety rather than add to it."Grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what you would have us to do, that the Spirit of wisdom may save us from all false choices, and that in your light we may see light, and in your straight path may not stumble..."—Anglican Book of Common Prayer02:20 Leaving it up to God28:38 Prayer for guidance33:03 Greeting latecomers46:53 Cutoms and anxiety

  15. 39

    Is Authenticity a Virtue?

    Myron and Martin reflect on curiosity as virtue and temptation, the tension between novelty and wisdom, and the anxiety of post-Christian culture. In today’s readings Aquinas examines the procession of divine persons within the Trinity and Calvin explores the insufficiency of creation to reveal God fully. "How few of us are there who, in lifting our eyes to the heavens, or looking abroad on the various regions of the earth, ever think of the Creator?"— Institutes, 1.5.1100:47 Opening Reflections: Curiosity09:01 Sartorial wisdom29:20 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q28)40:24 Institutes of the Christian Religion (1.5.5-15)

  16. 38

    The Book of Life

    Myron and Martin discuss the church’s proper relationship to politics and continue their study of Aquinas and Calvin—covering the Book of Life, the power of God, and how creation itself testifies to the divine. "Can any thing be more detestable than this madness in man, who, finding God a hundred times both in his body and his soul, makes his excellence in this respect a pretext for denying that there is a God?"— Institutes, 1.5.400:21 Opening Reflections: Church & politics19:30 Roadside Attractions: Arlington National Cemetery23:56  Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q24)37:24 Calvin's Institutes (1.5.4)

  17. 37

    Right Hand of the Father

    Martin and Myron explore eschatology, the humanity of Christ, and the doctrine of predestination, while offering a grounded reminder of the hope Christians have in the bodily resurrection. "Predestination is not anything in the predestined; but only in the person who predestines."— Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q2301:55 Opening Reflections: Eschatology & physicality26:46 Roadside Attractions: The Great American Boat Loop35:37 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q23)56:29 Calvin's Institutes (1.5.3)

  18. 36

    Out of Print

    Myron and Martin reflect on the wisdom of the past, a long walk down the Orange County coastline, and address an etiquette conundrum: the use of titles in social address. In today’s readings, Aquinas explores divine providence, and Calvin reflects on the clarity of God's creation."The Lord wraps himself in light as with a garment."— Psalm 104:202:06 Opening Reflections: Looking to the past25:13 Roadside Attraction: Orange County coastline34:12 Rules of Civility: Social position and titles42:02 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q22)49:27 Calvin's Institutes (1.7.4-5)

  19. 35

    Beauty, Civility, and Other Things of the Past

    Myron and Martin reflect on aesthetics, justice, and manners in a world shaped by novelty and transgression, grounding their conversation in classical virtues, theology, and the transcendent beauty of God."The work of divine justice always presupposes the work of mercy; and is founded thereupon."—Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q2100:34 Opening Reflections: Beauty in the post-Christian world27:36 Roadside Attraction: Royal Gorge33:40 Rules of Civility: Giving advice1:00:50 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q21)1:08:41 Calvin's Institutes (1.7.2)

  20. 34

    God, By Whom the Meek are Guided

    Myron and Martin explore how God leads us—challenging the popular idea that divine direction always comes through personal signs—and instead highlight wisdom, community, and Scripture as the ordinary means of discerning God’s will. They reflect on the nature of God’s justice and mercy in Aquinas and the authority of Scripture in Calvin.“Mercy does not destroy justice, but in a sense is the fullness thereof.”— Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q2102:06 Opening Reflections: God's voice06:23 Anglican prayer for guidance22:18 Roadside Attraction: Revolving restaurants27:49 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q21)41:40 Calvin's Institutes (1.7.2)

  21. 33

    Temperate in Reprimand

    Myron and Martin reflect on hiking etiquette, the marvel of God’s image in humanity, and offer a book recommendation and the next rule of civility. In today’s readings, Aquinas teaches that love is found in God’s will, and Calvin argues that the authority of Scripture rests not on the Church, but on the Holy Spirit."My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?"—Psalm 22:103:38 Opening Reflections: Hiking in Santa Ana12:06 Angels and humans20:43  The Psalm on the Cross by David Roseberry25:28  Rules of Civility: How to criticize37:33  Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q20)48:12  Calvin's Institutes (1.7.1)

  22. 32

    Discipline and Distraction

    Myron and Martin take a thoughtful detour from Aquinas and Calvin to reflect on the long walk of wisdom—exploring how habit, curiosity, and introspection shape a virtuous life in a culture that idolizes ease and novelty."Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind."– Romans 12:202:44 Roadside attraction: Laguna Beach walk20:24 Curiosity, habit, distraction44:04 Knowing your limits

  23. 31

    Lead Us Not into Temptation

    Myron and Martin reflect on Samson and temptation, a hike through Trabuco Canyon, the enduring value of wisdom over novelty, and a surprising roadside attraction: the Colorado River Inspection Tour. In today’s readings, Aquinas explores God’s will to permit evil, and Calvin turns to Psalm 19 to show how Scripture completes what creation begins."The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple."—Psalm 19:701:17 Opening Reflections: Trabuco Canyon hike07:36 Samson's temptations19:35 Novelty and wisdom31:05 Roadside Attraction: Colorado River Inspection Tour36:12 Rules of Civility: Press on47:03 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q19)58:14  Calvin's Institutes (1.6.4)

  24. 30

    Corn Maze Wisdom

    Myron and Martin reflect on wisdom that comes with age, the resolution to pursue excellence, and a new roadside attraction: the Frederick Douglass House in Washington, D.C. In today’s readings, Calvin urges Scripture as our reliable guide beyond nature, and Aquinas explores the will of God."How prone the human mind is to lapse into forgetfulness of God, how readily inclined to every kind of error, how bent every now and then on devising new and fictitious religions..." — Institutes, 1.6.301:04 Opening Reflections: Wisdom with age06:01 Joy as a virtue11:57 Rules of Civility: pursuing excellence 20:24 Roadside Attractions: Frederick Douglass House27:14 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q19)44:03 Calvin's Institutes (1.6.3)

  25. 29

    Chronological Snobbery

    Myron and Martin discuss the nature of God’s leading, St. Augustine’s Advent homilies, and Washington, D.C.’s little-known C&O Canal. In today’s reading, Calvin writes on the necessity of Scripture to ground our knowledge of God."It is impossible for any man to obtain even the minutest portion of right and sound doctrine without being a disciple of Scripture."—Institutes, 1.6.202:09 Opening Reflections: God's leading35:26 Augustine's Advent homilies40:53 Roadside Attractions: C&O Canal52:39 Calvin's Institutes (1.6.2)

  26. 28

    Discernment and Civility

    Myron and Martin discuss God's leading through trials, civility rules for the dining table, and the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial in Washington, D.C. In today's chapters, Calvin writes on the need for scripture to understand God while Aquinas writes on the relationship of God to life. “All things in Him are the divine life itself.” — Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q1800:35 Opening Reflections: Discernment24:05 Rules of Civility: Conversation at the table35:33 Roadside Attractions: Theodore Roosevelt Memorial40:30 Institutes (1.6)49:09 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q18)

  27. 27

    Gold or Tin?

    In this first episode of Season 2, Myron and Martin reflect on the virtues of peacemaking and curiosity and discuss today's roadside attraction: a seminary in Wisconsin older than the state itself. They continue to study John Calvin and Thomas Aquinas, exploring how God reveals Himself through creation and truth."Those external accidents, which resemble things other than themselves, are said to be false with respect to those things; thus gall is falsely honey; and tin, false gold." —Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q1700:53 Opening Reflections: Blessed are the peacemakers04:31 Curiosity 16:26 Roadside Attractions: Nashotah House20:22 Rules of Civility: Six aims of conversation30:27 Institutes (1.5.13-15)38:54 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q17)

  28. 26

    Vintage Technology

    In this final episode of Season 1, Myron and Martin discuss old methods of communication and the question of predestination. In our readings for this week, John Calvin critiques the folly of the wise in missing God’s handiwork, while Thomas Aquinas considers the nature of truth itself and its grounding in God.“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." — John 14:600:34 Opening Reflections: Fax machines, snail mail, and telephones41:24  Rules of Civility: A prayer for the pursuit of God53:44 Free will1:00:00 Institutes (1.5.12)1:10:30 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q16)Getting Wisdom will return in Season 2 with new rules of civility, roadside attractions, and reflections on the timeless wisdom of John Calvin and Thomas Aquinas.

  29. 25

    Ordinary Blessings

    In this episode, Myron and Martin reflect on divine providence and the many failings of human perception. John Calvin reminds us how blind we can be to God's glory, while Thomas Aquinas walks us through the nature of divine ideas."How few of us are there who, in lifting our eyes to the heavens, or looking abroad on the various regions of the earth, ever think of the Creator?"—Institutes (1.5.11)00:37 Opening Reflections: God's providence15:37 Institutes (1.5.11)26:08 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q15)33:13 Angels on the head of a pin

  30. 24

    The Anti-Therapeutic Church

    Myron and Martin discuss the modern church’s therapeutic tendencies in light of Ephesians 3, reflect on the devotional value of worship when we're not in the mood, and explore themes of divine justice and omniscience in Calvin and Aquinas."God knows contingent things not successively, as they are in their own being, as we do but simultaneously." — Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q1400:42 Opening Reflections: The therapeutic age12:11 Roadside Attractions: The Old Absinthe House23:18 Institutes (1.5.10)30:04 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q14)

  31. 23

    The Drowning Pigeon

    From Rudyard Kipling to General Patton to John Calvin, this episode traces the virtues of fortitude and faith amid modern distractions."The knowledge of God which we are invited to cultivate is not that which, resting satisfied with empty speculation, only flutters in the brain, but a knowledge which will prove substantial and fruitful wherever it is duly perceived." — Institutes (1.5.9)00:24 If— by Rudyard Kipling24:00 Maps32:56 Roadside Attraction: General Patton Museum40:53 Calvin's Institutes (1.5.9)57:02 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q13)

  32. 22

    A Preacher on Bourbon Street

    Myron and Martin reflect on New Orleans hotels, history, and street preaching. They have a conversation about Calvin’s view of divine providence—God’s care revealed through timely blessings—and Aquinas’s account of God’s perfect knowledge as the cause and comprehension of all things."God, in a wondrous manner, often brings sudden and unexpected succour to the miserable when almost on the brink of despair, whether in protecting them when they stray in deserts, and at length leading them back into the right path, or supplying them with food when famishing for want." — Institutes, 1.5.800:33 New Orleans 26:35 Calvin's Institutes (1.5.8)32:41 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q14)

  33. 21

    Too Noble for Anger

    Myron and Martin explore Calvin’s reflections on God's blessings in hardship, examine Aquinas’s teaching on God’s name as “He Who Is,” and introduce the first of Myron’s thirty-one life principles: to be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear."He is the protector, and even the avenger of innocence, by shedding blessings on the good, helping their necessities, soothing and solacing their griefs, relieving their sufferings, and in all ways providing for their safety." — Institutes (1.5.7)00:27 Roadside Attractions: Old Faithful in Calistoga, California08:27 Institutes (1.5.7) 20:20 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q13)

  34. 20

    Creation As Proof

    Myron and Martin reflect on customs and civility, then turn to John Calvin and Thomas Aquinas for insights on how creation reveals God's power and how the human intellect is illumined to know Him."By this light the blessed are made 'deiform'—i.e. like to God, according to the saying: 'When He shall appear we shall be like to Him, and we shall see Him as He is' (1 John 3:2)."— Summa Theologica, Prima Pars, Q1200:38 Customs & civility22:45 Calvin's Institutes (1.5.6)29:30 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q12)

  35. 19

    Stamp of Immortality

    Myron and Martin conclude their series on Christian living with a conversation about proclaiming the gospel in today’s cultural landscape. They also reflect on John Calvin’s argument for the soul’s divine origin and Thomas Aquinas’s teaching on the unity of God."Man bears about with him a stamp of immortality which can never be effaced." — Institutes, 1.5.500:48 Opening Reflections: Proclamation23:30 Roadside Attractions: Café Saugus29:03 Calvin's Institutes (1.5.5)37:13 Aquinas's Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q11)

  36. 18

    Evangelism in the Florida Keys

    Myron and Martin welcome guest Bill Welzien to share stories from nearly four decades of street preaching in the Florida Keys, his marathon swims around Key West, and reflections on gospel witness in an increasingly secular age.03:13 Swimming in the Florida Keys20:24 Street preaching in Mallory Square26:00 Evangelism over time37:31 Four major worldview questions44:58 J. Sidlow Baxter55:40 Closing question

  37. 17

    Across the Ages

    Martin and Myron reflect on cultivating wisdom across life stages, career changes, and asking for advice. They discuss Calvin’s writing on the human body and mind as evidence of God’s design and Aquinas's teachings on the nature of God's eternity."Can any thing be more detestable than this madness in man, who, finding God a hundred times both in his body and his soul, makes his excellence in this respect a pretext for denying that there is a God?" — Institutes, 1.5.400:41 Opening Reflections: The nature of wisdom19:03 Asking for advice34:27 Institutes (1.5.4)45:10 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q10)

  38. 16

    Man as Microcosm

    Martin and Myron discuss joy as an aspect of Christian living, the church’s role in public life and politics, and the curious unincorporated community of Amboy, CA. They continue their discussion of John Calvin and Thomas Aquinas with reflections on human nature as evidence of God’s design and on God’s immutability."Certain of the philosophers have not improperly called man a microcosm (miniature world), as being a rare specimen of divine power, wisdom, and goodness." — Institutes, 1.5.300:32 Opening Reflections: Christian living19:02 Church & politics31:57 Roadside Attractions: Amboy, CA40:45 Institutes (1.5.3)48:40 Summa Theologica (Prima Pars, Q9)

  39. 15

    Cultural Erosion and Revival

    We explore the battle over children’s books in public schools, the boundaries of free speech and how cultural shifts are eroding civil values. Featuring reflections on Calvin, Aquinas and the pursuit of wisdom."In attestation of his wondrous wisdom, both the heavens and the earth present us with innumerable proofs."— Institutes, I.5.200:27 Opening Reflections: Free speech11:20 Congress17:21 Christian basis of our culture30:15 Sharing the Gospel38:08 Growing in knowledge41:04 Institutes48:27 Summa Theologica 

  40. 14

    Courage to Question with Dr. Hoby Wedler

    In this final part of our conversation with Dr. Hoby Wedler, we explore objective truth, scripture, and the moral questions that often divide us—including those surrounding homosexuality and alcohol. We reflect on how upbringing and technology shape the way we see the world, and why honest, respectful conversation remains essential in times of rapid change.

  41. 13

    Memory and Faith with Dr. Hoby Wedler

    Dr. Hoby Wedler, a PhD chemist and entrepreneur, joins us to explore how creativity, technology, and mentorship can reshape limitations into strengths. We discuss accessible innovation, the impact of AI on communication and learning, and the role of sensory design in business. From his work in chemistry and inclusive branding to his reflections on faith and purpose, Dr. Wedler offers insight into how adversity can fuel vision. Part two of a three-part guest series.

  42. 12

    Academia, Technology & Mentorship with Dr. Hoby Wedler

    Dr. Hoby Wedler—chemist, entrepreneur, and accessibility advocate—kicks off a three-part series on turning life’s constraints into innovation. Join us as we dig into the mindsets that fuel wisdom.

  43. 11

    Wisdom, Faith & Calling: A Conversation with Michael Schutt

    In this special episode, Myron Steeves talks with Michael Schutt, author of Redeeming Law, to explore wisdom, faith, and calling. They discuss how work shapes us, the books that shift perspectives, and why true wisdom requires community. We hope you enjoy this thought-provoking conversation.

  44. 10

    From Ranches to Reason: Working Hard and Seeking God

    In this episode of Getting Wisdom, Martin Isreb and Myron Steeves delve into the profound connections between work, maturity, and the pursuit of God. Drawing from personal stories, philosophical insights, and theological reflections, they explore how early responsibilities—like working on family ranches—build character and wisdom. The episode also examines John Calvin's passionate arguments about the innate knowledge of God and Thomas Aquinas. With practical takeaways and deep reflections, this discussion invites listeners to consider how hard work, lifelong learning, and faith shape a meaningful life.

  45. 9

    Truth in a Secular World

    This week's episode of Getting Wisdom we dive into the contemporary struggle of the modern evangelical church as it seeks harmony in an increasingly secular world. Revisiting foundational texts from Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion and Aquinas’s Summa Theologica, they explore why metaphors in Scripture are vital, the implications of truth as a self-evident principle, and the cultural shift from a God-centered to self-centered worldview. With perspectives on why “whatever you win them with is what you win them to,” we question whether the church’s drive for relevance may risk diluting the essence of the gospel. This episode challenges listeners to consider the cost of faith, the moral code within us, and the profound sense of purpose embedded in our nature.

  46. 8

    Grow Up: Embracing Wisdom and Maturity

    Exploring the importance of growing up and embracing maturity as part of the pursuit of wisdom. Reflections on the Baby Boomer generation's impact on societal values, contrasting the idealization of youth with the benefits of adulthood. Discussion on the relevance of ancient texts like Homer's "Odyssey," the significance of religious belief in personal contentment, and the pitfalls of contemporary cultural shifts, including the rise of groups like the Satan Club in San Clemente. Encouraging listeners to appreciate their blessings and strive for a deeper understanding of life and faith.

  47. 7

    Traditions and Theology

    Explore the interplay between cultural customs and divine wisdom in this episode of "Getting Wisdom." The discussion centers on the philosophical significance of customs in shaping identity, paired with an analysis of John Calvin's and Thomas Aquinas's theological insights. Delve into how traditions influence personal growth and community cohesion, and how they relate to deeper theological understanding. This episode invites reflection on balancing cultural heritage with individual expression in the pursuit of wisdom.

  48. 6

    Navigating Hardship and Divine Insight

    In this episode of "Getting Wisdom," hosts Martin Isreb and Myron Steves continue their exploration into John Calvin's Institutes and Thomas Aquinas' Summa Theologica. They delve into the themes of divine providence and the unity of sacred doctrine, discussing how challenges enrich our philosophical and spiritual insights. The conversation covers how the pursuit of wisdom involves both understanding and experiencing the divine intricacies laid out by historical theologians. Join them as they connect profound theological concepts with practical understanding, emphasizing the transformative power of grappling with complex spiritual truths.

  49. 5

    Customs and Community

    In this enlightening episode of "Getting Wisdom," hosts Martin Isreb and Myron Steeves discuss Steeves' travels in New York and Washington D.C. Steeves shares his observations on the vibrant life and unexpected normalcy in New York City post-COVID, challenging the prevalent media narratives. The discussion delves into the importance of community sensibility in urban settings compared to suburban isolation, the role of tradition in fostering wisdom, and the delicate balance between following customs and personal autonomy. Join us as we explore how embracing community traditions and questioning modern perceptions can lead to a richer, wiser life.

  50. 4

    Cynicism v. Wisdom

    Explore key topics that deepen our appreciation of divine goodness. Tune in to discover how historical theology intersects with modern life, fostering a deeper understanding of self-knowledge and divine understanding.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

A podcast for thoughtful Christians seeking timeless wisdom in the words of Scripture and the Church Fathers. Hosts Myron Steeves and Martin Isreb offer calm, reverent conversation on classical theology, philosophy, and Christian living."Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."—Proverbs 4:7Visit www.gettingwisdom.org for show notes & reference guides.

HOSTED BY

Myron Steeves and Martin Isreb

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