The Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast

Episode 299 examines an apparent contradiction in Scripture: some passages describe the earth as lasting forever, while others—including Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:35—say that heaven and earth will pass away. Lance examines relevant Old and New Testament passages, the scientific context surrounding the future of the universe, manuscript variants, and theological interpretations from several scholars. The episode concludes that the Bible distinguishes between the present creation—temporary and subject to judgment—and a renewed creation that will endure forever. God’s plan is not to abandon His creation, but to transform and restore it into a new heaven and new earth where the righteous inherit the earth and creation is liberated from decay. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptic’s Annotated Bible – “Will Jesus's second coming be visible to all?” https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/earth.html  GotQuestions.org, “What does it mean that heaven and earth will pass away?” https://www.gotquestions.org/heaven-and-earth-will-pass-away.html Joseph R. Nally, Jr., “Does the earth abide forever?” Third Millennium Ministries. https://thirdmill.org/answers/answer.asp/file/40189 John Piper, “What Happens When You Die? Glorified and Free on the New Earth,” Desiring God, August 8, 1993. https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/what-happens-when-you-die-glorified-and-free-on-the-new-earth Randy Alcorn, “Will the Present Earth Be Completely Destroyed…,” Eternal Perspective Ministries, March 19, 2019. https://www.epm.org/resources/2019/Mar/19/present-earth-destroyed-resurrection/ Lita Cosner and Gary Bates, “The new earth,” Creation.com, 24 Feb 2014, updated 1 Nov 2022. https://creation.com/en/articles/new-earth Peter Goeman, “Does 2 Peter 3:10 Say the Earth Will Be Burned Up or Exposed?” The Bible Sojourner. https://petergoeman.com/does-2-peter-310-say-the-earth-will-be-burned-up-or-exposed/ Larry Perkins, “The Future of the Earth according to 2 Peter 3:10 heurethēsetai,” Internet Moments with God’s Word, 13 March 2017. https://moments.nbseminary.com/archives/157-the-future-of-the-earth-according-to-2-peter-310-heurethesetai/ Earl R. Bunch Jr., “Will the Cosmos Be Destroyed and Re-Created or Instead Renovated?” McMaster Journal of Theology and Ministry 23 (2021–2022): 103–30. https://mcmasterdivinity.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/23.MJTM_.103-30-Bunch.pdf J. Richard Middleton, “A New Heaven and a New Earth: The Case for a Holistic Reading of the Biblical Story of Redemption,” Journal for Christian Theological Research 11 (2006): 73–97. G. K. Beale, “A Review and Evaluation of J. Richard Middleton, A New Heaven and a New Earth,” Unio Cum Christo 3.1 (April 2017): 235–47. Review of Middleton, A New Heaven and a New Earth: Reclaiming Biblical Eschatology (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2014).

Episode 298 examines C.S. Lewis’ chapter on Christian marriage and what it means for a husband and wife to become “one flesh.” Lance Smith explores why Christianity views marriage as a lifelong covenant and why keeping that promise is a matter of justice as well as sexual morality. Lewis also distinguishes the temporary feelings of being “in love” from the deeper, will-based love that sustains a marriage. The episode considers Lewis’ challenge to modern ideas about romance and divorce, as well as his distinction between civil marriage and the Christian understanding of marriage. Finally, Lance examines Lewis’ discussion of headship through the lens of Scripture. Biblical headship is not domination or dictatorship, but a responsibility to lead, protect, sacrifice, and serve—following the example of Christ. The episode asks what happens when we stop defining marriage by changing cultural expectations and return to the biblical pattern. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk  

Deuteronomy 2:19: Did Israel Steal Ammon’s Land? Solving a Biblical “Contradiction” Did God tell Israel not to take any of Ammon’s land, only for Joshua to later say that the tribe of Gad received “half the land of Ammon”? At first glance, that sounds like a contradiction. In this episode, Lance Smith examines the geography and history behind Deuteronomy 2:19 and Joshua 13:25. Israel did not conquer Ammon’s homeland. Instead, Israel defeated Sihon, king of the Amorites, and received the territory that Sihon controlled—including land that had previously been associated with Ammon. By looking at Numbers 21, Deuteronomy 2, Joshua 13, and Jephthah’s later explanation in Judges 11, we can see why these passages are not necessarily describing the same piece of land. The episode also highlights an important lesson from the story: God gave Israel victory, but He also gave them boundaries. Israel had to trust God enough to fight when He said “go”—and trust Him enough to stop when He said “no.” Sometimes what looks like a biblical contradiction is really a geography problem. And sometimes, putting the map on the table makes all the difference. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Guzik, David. “Deuteronomy 2 Commentary: Moses Remembers the Wilderness.” Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/deuteronomy-2/ GotQuestions.org. “What is the significance of the land of Ammon in the Bible?” https://www.gotquestions.org/Ammon-in-the-Bible.html Cogan, Mordechai. “Transjordan Is Not the Promised Land, Even in Deuteronomy.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/transjordan-is-not-the-promised-land-even-in-deuteronomy Ben-Gad HaCohen, David. “Jephthah’s Wandering Biblical Message to the King of Ammon.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/jephthahs-wandering-biblical-message-to-the-king-of-ammon Klein, Reuven Chaim. “Between the Rivers Arnon and Jabbok.” Jewish Bible Quarterly. https://www.jewishbible.org/articles/between-the-rivers-arnon-and-jabbok/ Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges. Commentary on Deuteronomy 2:19. https://www.bibliaplus.org/en/commentaries/254/cambridge-bible-for-schools-and-colleges/deuteronomy/2/19 MacDonald, Burton. “East of the Jordan”: Territories and Sites of the Hebrew Scriptures. American Schools of Oriental Research, 2000. https://www.bu.edu/asor/pubs/books-monographs/macdonald.pdf Fisher, James Roger. Ammon in the Hebrew Bible: A Textual Analysis and Archaeological Context of Selected References to the Ammonites of Transjordan. PhD dissertation, Andrews University, 1998. https://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1049&context=dissertations Wood, Bryant G. “New Light on the ‘Forgotten’ Conquest.” Associates for Biblical Research, 14 April 2011. https://biblearchaeology.org/research-articles/new-light-on-the-forgotten-conquest/

Episode 296 examines the claim that Jesus’ second coming will be invisible based on John 14:19, and compares that passage with Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Revelation, which describe His return as public and visible. Lance Smith looks at the immediate context of John 14, including Jesus’ conversation with His disciples before the crucifixion, and considers how the passage fits with His post-resurrection appearances. The episode also briefly considers the Watchtower’s invisible-return interpretation and other views of the “coming on the clouds.” The conclusion is that John 14:19 is not describing Jesus’ final return. When each passage is read in its proper context, the supposed contradiction disappears. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptic’s Annotated Bible – “Will Jesus's second coming be visible to all?” https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/seejesus.html  Robert M. Bowman Jr., “Does Christ Return Invisibly?” Institute for Religious Research – https://wit.irr.org/does-christ-return-invisibly GotQuestions.org – “What does it mean that every eye will see Him when Jesus returns (Revelation 1:7)?” – https://www.gotquestions.org/every-eye-will-see-Him.html “The Upper Room: There and Back Again” – BJU Seminary – https://seminary.bju.edu/theology-in-3d/the-upper-room-there-and-back-again/ Precept Austin – Matthew 24 Commentary – https://www.preceptaustin.org/matthew-24-commentary Life, Hope & Truth – “Combating Confusion About Jesus’ Second Coming” – https://lifehopeandtruth.com/prophecy/end-times/olivet-prophecy/part-7combating-confusion-about-jesus-second-coming/ White Throne Ministries – “The Manner of Christ’s Second Coming” – https://whitethroneministries.org/resources/lessons/the-manner-of-christs-second-coming Watchtower Society – Reasoning From the Scriptures (Return of Christ section) – https://www.jw.org/en/library/books/Reasoning-From-the-Scriptures/Return-of-Christ/

In Episode 295, Lance Smith walks through Chapter Five of C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity, one of the book’s most challenging chapters: “Sexual Morality.” Lewis distinguishes Christian chastity from changing standards of social propriety and argues that the problem isn't sex, the body, or pleasure themselves, but the disordered way our sexual appetites can operate. Lewis affirms the goodness of the body and marriage while calling Christians to faithfulness within marriage and abstinence outside it. He also offers practical encouragement: pursue virtue honestly, ask forgiveness when you fail, get back up, and keep trying with God's help. But Lewis ends with an even more challenging point: sexual sin isn't the center of Christian morality. Spiritual pride, hatred, cruelty, and the desire to dominate others can be even more destructive. The real goal isn't simply avoiding certain behaviors—it's becoming the kind of person Christ is shaping us to be. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

Episode 294 examines the apparent tension between Deuteronomy 2:7—“you have lacked nothing”—and Israel’s complaints about their difficult wilderness experience recorded in Exodus and Numbers. Lance Smith looks at the context of Deuteronomy 2:7, the Hebrew wording, and several explanations for how Israel could experience hardship while still lacking nothing God needed to provide. The episode concludes that Israel’s wilderness experience was certainly difficult, but difficulty does not mean divine abandonment. God provided for Israel throughout their journey, even when the circumstances were harsh. The passage reminds us that having what we need from God does not necessarily mean having an easy life. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  “‘Lacked Nothing in the Wilderness’: Divine Sufficiency and the Verb חָסַר in Deuteronomy 2:7.” Biblical Hebrew. https://biblicalhebrew.org/lacked-nothing-in-wilderness-divine-sufficiency-and-verb-khasar-in-deuteronomy2-7.aspx “Deuteronomy 2:2–7 – You Lacked Nothing.” Thinking Torah. https://thinkingtorah.com/deuteronomy-2-2-7-you-lacked-nothing/ Guzik, David. “Deuteronomy 2 – Moses Remembers the Wilderness.” Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/deuteronomy-2/ DiMattei, Steven. Contradictions in the Bible. https://contradictionsinthebible.com/ “The Opening of Deuteronomy: A Recounting or Different Version of the Wilderness Experience?” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-opening-of-devarim-a-recounting-or-different-version-of-the-wilderness-experience Bruins, Hendrik J., and Johannes van der Plicht. “Radiocarbon Dating the ‘Wilderness of Zin.’” Radiocarbon 49, no. 2 (2007): 481–497. https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/7B5A0AD62D7137535957CB916F019AE6/S0033822200042417a.pdf/radiocarbon-dating-the-wilderness-of-zin.pdf BibleInterp articles on archaeology, biblical research, and ancient Israel. https://bibleinterp.arizona.edu/articles/archaeology-biblical-research-and-ancient-israel

After concluding his three-part series on Matthew 10 and Matthew 24, host Lance Smith returns with a bonus episode reflecting on Dr. William Lane Craig's recent podcast addressing the same passages. Smith explains that while Dr. Craig argues for a future, visible return of Christ distinct from the near-term judgment on Jerusalem in A.D. 70, that conclusion does not overturn the central point of the series: Jesus was speaking about multiple events, not making a failed prediction about the end of the world occurring within His disciples' lifetimes. Along the way, Lance highlights the importance of careful exegesis, engaging opposing viewpoints fairly, and remembering that the real debate is one of interpretation—not whether Jesus proved to be a false prophet. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Craig, William Lane. "Q&A: Did Jesus Expect the End in His Generation?" Reasonable Faith Podcast (Spotify episode). https://open.spotify.com/episode/7zYYJBvec2KPXuVWCj7wCe Craig, William Lane. Reasonable Faith. https://www.reasonablefaith.org Carson, D. A. Matthew. In The Expositor's Bible Commentary, Vol. 8. Zondervan. Schreiner, Thomas R. "Can We Hasten the Parousia?" Themelios. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/can-we-hasten-the-parousia/ Jackson, Wayne. "What Is the Meaning of Matthew 10:23?" Christian Courier. https://christiancourier.com/articles/what-is-the-meaning-of-matthew-10-23 McGowan, Sean. "Before the Son of Man Comes (Matthew 10:23)." Knowing Scripture. https://knowingscripture.com/articles/before-the-son-of-man-comes-matthew-10-23 Bowen, David, Ph.D. "Is Jesus Recorded as a Failed Apocalypticist?" Ehrman Project. https://ehrmanproject.com/is-jesus-recorded-as-a-failed-apocalypticist France, R. T. The Gospel of Matthew. New International Commentary on the New Testament. Eerdmans. Blomberg, Craig L. Matthew. New American Commentary. B&H Academic. Keener, Craig S. A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew. Eerdmans.

In episode 292 Lance Smith walks through C.S. Lewis’ chapter "Morality and Psychoanalysis," explaining the difference between psychological healing and moral choice. Lewis argues psychoanalysis repairs damaged instincts, while morality is what we do with the material we’re given. Key points: bad psychological traits are illnesses, not sins; each choice shapes the kind of person we become; growing closer to God increases awareness of our need for grace. Join Lance as he ties Lewis’ insights back to Scripture and invites listeners to keep asking honest questions about spiritual growth. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

Did Moses choose Israel’s judges, or did the people? Deuteronomy 1 tells the Israelites to choose qualified men from their tribes, while Exodus 18 says that Moses chose able men and appointed them as leaders. At first glance, it looks like a contradiction. But when we read Deuteronomy 1:13–15 carefully, we get a fuller picture: the people selected the men, and Moses formally appointed them. Both passages can therefore describe different parts of the same process. In Episode 291, we examine the qualifications given for these leaders, compare the process with the selection and appointment of the seven in Acts 6, and consider how critical scholars understand the differences between Exodus 18 and Deuteronomy 1. So, is this a contradiction—or simply two passages emphasizing different parts of the same event? Join me as we take a closer look at Deuteronomy 1:13 and see how the apparent difficulty can be resolved. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  DiMattei, Steven. “Who Initiates the Proposal to Appoint Judges: Moses or Jethro?” Contradictions in the Bible. https://contradictionsinthebible.com/who-initiates-the-proposal-to-appoint-judges-moses-or-jethro/ Farber, Zev. “The Opening of Devarim: A Recounting or Different Version of the Wilderness Experience?” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-opening-of-devarim-a-recounting-or-different-version-of-the-wilderness-experience Levinson, Bernard M. “The Founding of Israel’s Judicial System.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/the-founding-of-israels-judicial-system Bible Outlines. “Deuteronomy 1:9-18 – Preparing for Conquest by Establishing Delegated Leadership Structure.” https://www.bibleoutlines.com/deuteronomy-19-18-preparing-for-conquest-by-establishing-shared-leadership/

Did Jesus predict the end of the world during His disciples' lifetimes? In Episode 290, Lance Smith concludes his three-part examination of one of the New Testament's most debated passages by exploring Matthew 24 in its historical and prophetic context. Examining Jesus' Olivet Discourse alongside the work of D. A. Carson, Thomas Schreiner, R. T. France, Craig Blomberg, and others, Lance explains why many evangelical scholars understand Jesus to be speaking of both the near-term judgment on Jerusalem and His future visible return. Rather than demonstrating a failed prophecy, the episode argues that the Skeptic's Annotated Bible assumes all of Jesus' references to His "coming" describe the same event—an assumption many biblical scholars reject. By paying careful attention to context, prophecy, and first-century language, Lance concludes that the claim Jesus falsely predicted the end within His disciples' lifetimes is not supported. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptic’s Annotated Bible – “When will the end of the world come?” https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/end.html  Jackson, Wayne. "What Is the Meaning of Matthew 10:23?" Christian Courier. https://christiancourier.com/articles/what-is-the-meaning-of-matthew-10-23 McGowan, Sean. "Before the Son of Man Comes (Matthew 10:23)." Knowing Scripture. https://knowingscripture.com/articles/before-the-son-of-man-comes-matthew-10-23 Schreiner, Thomas R. "Can We Hasten the Parousia?" Themelios. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/can-we-hasten-the-parousia/ "Bible Prophecy: What Matthew 24 Tells Us About 'The End.'" Grace Communion International. https://www.gci.org/articles/what-matthew-24-tells-us-about-the-end/ Bowen, David, Ph.D. "Is Jesus Recorded as a Failed Apocalypticist?" Ehrman Project. https://ehrmanproject.com/is-jesus-recorded-as-a-failed-apocalypticist O'Neill, Tim. "Jesus the Apocalyptic Prophet." History for Atheists. https://historyforatheists.com/2018/12/jesus-apocalyptic-prophet/  Additional Recommended Reading Carson, D. A. Matthew. In The Expositor's Bible Commentary, Vol. 8. Zondervan. France, R. T. The Gospel of Matthew. New International Commentary on the New Testament. Eerdmans. Blomberg, Craig L. Matthew. New American Commentary. B&H Academic. Keener, Craig S. A Commentary on the Gospel of Matthew. Eerdmans.

Episode 289 continues our Sunday Series through C.S. Lewis's Mere Christianity with Chapter 3 of Book 3, Social Morality. Lance Smith explores Lewis' argument that Christianity applies not only to individual lives but also to society as a whole. Lewis begins with two foundational ideas: Christianity doesn't invent a new social morality but calls us back to the Golden Rule, and it cannot be reduced to the platform of any political party. Lewis then sketches what a genuinely Christian society might look like—one marked by honest work, humility instead of vanity, generosity instead of selfishness, respect for rightful authority, and genuine courtesy. Such a society, Lewis argues, would challenge both the political Left and the Right. He also raises historical questions about lending money at interest, not to settle the debate, but to encourage Christians to think carefully about assumptions our culture often takes for granted. The episode closes with Lewis' challenging call to generosity: Christian charity should cost us something. Ultimately, lasting social change begins not with politics, but with transformed hearts that love and obey God. Christianity is not a political ally to be enlisted—it is a Master to be followed. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

This episode examines the apparent contradiction between Numbers and Deuteronomy over whether the first generation of Israelites died in the wilderness. Lance Smith walks through the biblical texts and scholarly views to clarify what the Bible actually says. Key points: the age-based judgment in Numbers, exceptions like Joshua and Caleb, the Levites and women, inherited memory, and Moses’ corporate language. The episode argues that the passages can be reconciled without forcing a contradiction. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Kugler, Gili. “Did the Exodus Generation Die in the Wilderness or Enter Canaan?” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/did-the-exodus-generation-die-in-the-wilderness-or-enter-canaan Himmelfarb, Martha. “Who Is Deuteronomy’s Audience?” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/who-is-deuteronomys-audience Ingram, Chaim. “RE’EH: You have seen….” Times of Israel Blogs. https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/reeh-you-have-seen/ Carpenter, Eugene E. “Literary Structure and Unbelief: A Study of Deuteronomy 1:6–46.” The Asbury Theological Journal 42, no. 1 (1987): 77–84. https://place.asburyseminary.edu/asburyjournal/vol42/iss1/6 Schnittjer, Gary Edward. “Kadesh Infidelity of Deuteronomy 1 and Its Synoptic Implications.” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 63, no. 1 (2020): 95–120. DiMattei, Steven. “Bible Contradiction #280. Where are the 1st generation Israelites killed off?” Contradictions in the Bible. https://contradictionsinthebible.com/1st-generation-die-where/

In Episode 287 (Part 2), Lance Smith turns to Matthew 10:23, examining the skeptical claim that Jesus wrongly predicted His return within His disciples' lifetime. By exploring the passage's immediate context, the significance of the title "Son of Man," and several major evangelical interpretations, he shows that the central debate is not whether Jesus made a failed prophecy, but which event Jesus had in view. Drawing on scholars including Wayne Jackson, Sean McGowan, David Guzik, and others, Smith explains why some interpreters connect the passage to the judgment on Jerusalem in A.D. 70, others to the inauguration of Christ's kingdom, and still others to different near-term fulfillments. He concludes by previewing Part 3, where Matthew 24 takes center stage and the discussion turns to "the end," "all nations," and whether Jesus' Olivet Discourse predicts one event or several. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptic’s Annotated Bible – “When will the end of the world come?” https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/end.html  Jackson, Wayne. "What Is the Meaning of Matthew 10:23?" Christian Courier. https://christiancourier.com/articles/what-is-the-meaning-of-matthew-10-23 McGowan, Sean. "Before the Son of Man Comes (Matthew 10:23)." Knowing Scripture. https://knowingscripture.com/articles/before-the-son-of-man-comes-matthew-10-23 Brown, Austin. "Wrestling With Matthew 10:23." Gentle Reformation. https://gentlereformation.com/2011/03/31/wrestling-with-matthew-1023/ Guzik, David. Matthew 10 Commentary. Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/matthew-10/  Stallard, Michael D. Matthew 10:23 and the Coming of the Son of Man. Liberty University Digital Commons. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1095&context=pretrib_arch Bowen, David, Ph.D. "Is Jesus Recorded as a Failed Apocalypticist?" Ehrman Project. https://ehrmanproject.com/is-jesus-recorded-as-a-failed-apocalypticist  O'Neill, Tim. "Jesus the Apocalyptic Prophet." History for Atheists. https://historyforatheists.com/2018/12/jesus-apocalyptic-prophet/

In Episode 286 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, Lance Smith continues through Book Three of C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity by exploring Chapter Two, The Cardinal Virtues. Lewis introduces the four cardinal virtues—prudence, temperance, justice, and fortitude—and explains why they serve as the foundation of Christian character. Along the way, Lance examines why Christianity calls for both a childlike heart and mature thinking, why temperance applies to every area of life rather than just alcohol, and why courage is essential to practicing every other virtue. The episode concludes by exploring Lewis' important distinction between merely doing the right thing and becoming the kind of person who naturally does what is right. God is not simply interested in outward obedience or rule-keeping. He is shaping our character into the people He created us to become. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk  

Host Lance Smith launches a 35-week journey through the Book of Deuteronomy by tackling one of the Bible's most enduring questions: Did Moses really write it? This episode fairly presents the case made by biblical critics, examining the "beyond the Jordan" objection, the Documentary Hypothesis, and the theory that Deuteronomy was composed during King Josiah's reforms. It then evaluates those claims alongside the book's own repeated assertions of Mosaic authorship, the testimony of Joshua, the Old and New Testaments, Jesus' references to Moses, the covenant treaty structure of Deuteronomy, archaeological evidence, and the insights of both conservative and critical scholars. Finally, the discussion addresses the account of Moses' death in Deuteronomy 34 and explains why many conservative scholars see it as an inspired editorial conclusion rather than evidence against Mosaic authorship. Rather than avoiding difficult questions, this episode weighs the cumulative evidence and argues that substantial Mosaic authorship—with limited, inspired editorial additions—remains the most compelling explanation. It's the perfect foundation for a new verse-by-verse study through Deuteronomy. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  “Who wrote the book of Deuteronomy? Who was the author of Deuteronomy?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/who-wrote-the-book-of-Deuteronomy.html “The Book of Josiah’s Reform.” Bible.org. https://bible.org/article/book-josiahs-reform “Introduction to Deuteronomy.” Bible.org. https://bible.org/seriespage/introduction-deuteronomy “Death of Moses in Deuteronomy 34 and Authorship.” Christian Research Institute (equip.org). https://www.equip.org/articles/death-of-moses-in-deut-34-and-authorship/ Block, Daniel I. “Recovering the Voice of Moses: The Genesis of Deuteronomy.” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 44, no. 3 (2001): 385–408. https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/files_JETS-PDFs_44_44-3_44-3-PP385-408_JETS.pdf Wenham, Gordon. “The Date of Deuteronomy: Linch-pin of Old Testament Criticism.” Themelios / The Gospel Coalition. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/the-date-of-deuteronomy-linch-pin-of-old-testament-criticism/ “Evidence for Mosaic Authorship of the Torah.” Answers in Genesis. https://answersingenesis.org/bible-characters/moses/evidence-mosaic-authorship-of-torah/ “Mosaic Authorship of the Pentateuch—Tried and True.” Apologetics Press. https://apologeticspress.org/mosaic-authorship-of-the-pentateuch-tried-and-true-36/ Kline, Meredith G. Treaty of the Great King: The Covenant Structure of Deuteronomy: Studies and Commentary. Eerdmans, 1963. “Who Wrote Deuteronomy?” BartEhrman.com. https://www.bartehrman.com/who-wrote-deuteronomy/ “Who Wrote the Torah According to the Torah?” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/who-wrote-the-torah-according-to-the-torah “Where in the Transjordan Did Moses Deliver His Opening Address?” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/where-in-the-transjordan-did-moses-deliver-his-opening-address

Episode 287 launches a three-part investigation into one of the most significant skeptical challenges to Christianity: Did Jesus wrongly predict that the end would come during His disciples' lifetime? Host Lance Smith presents the strongest version of the skeptical case, examining passages such as Matthew 10:23, Matthew 24:14, Matthew 24:34, and Mark 9:1, along with the arguments of critics including Bart Ehrman and Tim O'Neill. Rather than offering quick answers, Lance lays the groundwork for a careful, context-driven study that asks whether these passages all refer to the same event—or to different events in redemptive history. The first episode sets the stage for the series by defining the questions, surveying the competing interpretations, and explaining why context is essential before deciding whether Jesus made a failed prophecy. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptic’s Annotated Bible – “When will the end of the world come?” https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/end.html  Ehrman, Bart D. Is Jesus Recorded as a Failed Apocalypticist? https://ehrmanproject.com/is-jesus-recorded-as-a-failed-apocalypticist O'Neill, Tim. "Jesus the Apocalyptic Prophet." History for Atheists. https://historyforatheists.com/2018/12/jesus-apocalyptic-prophet/ "Bible Prophecy: What Matthew 24 Tells Us About 'The End.'" Grace Communion International. https://www.gci.org/articles/what-matthew-24-tells-us-about-the-end/

In Episode 283 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, Lance Smith begins Book Three of C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity by exploring Chapter One, The Three Parts of Morality. Many people think morality is simply a list of rules designed to keep us from enjoying life. Lewis argues the opposite. God's moral law isn't arbitrary. It is the instruction manual for how human beings were created to live and flourish. Using memorable illustrations of a machine, a fleet of ships, and a band playing music, Lance explains Lewis' three dimensions of morality: our relationships with others, the condition of our own hearts, and the ultimate purpose for which God created us. Along the way, he shows why laws can restrain evil but cannot transform the human heart, and why our understanding of reality shapes the way we live. The episode concludes by reminding us that if Christianity is true, every human being has eternal significance, making the condition of our souls far more important than any temporary kingdom, culture, or civilization. As Book Three continues, Lewis turns from explaining what Christians believe to showing what those beliefs look like in everyday life. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

Episode 282 concludes our 31-week journey through the Bible difficulties of the Book of Numbers by examining the two-witness requirement in Numbers 35:30. Does this law mean that a murderer could only be convicted if two people actually witnessed the crime? If so, wouldn't most murderers simply go free? Lance Smith explores the skeptical objection, examines the Hebrew word ʿēd ("witness"), and shows that the Mosaic Law required corroborated evidence—not necessarily two literal eyewitnesses. Drawing on the work of Norman Geisler and Thomas Howe, David Guzik, Precept Austin, Edward D. Andrews, and GotQuestions.org, he demonstrates that God's law was designed to protect innocent life from false accusations while still allowing justice to be carried out when guilt could be firmly established. This episode also marks the conclusion of the Numbers series, highlighting how careful attention to language, context, and historical background often resolves passages that initially appear contradictory. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  “Why are two or three witnesses needed in Deuteronomy 17:6 and 19:15?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/two-or-three-witnesses.html Andrews, Edward D. “Witnesses in the Wilderness: The Biblical Law of Evidence and the Case of Unseen Transgression.” Christian Publishing House, November 2, 2023. https://christianpublishinghouse.co/2023/11/02/witnesses-in-the-wilderness-the-biblical-law-of-evidence-and-the-case-of-unseen-transgression/ Guzik, David. Enduring Word Commentary on Numbers 35. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-35/ Precept Austin. Numbers 35 Commentary. https://www.preceptaustin.org/numbers-35-commentary  

In Episode 281, Lance Smith concludes his two-part examination of Matthew 23:35 by tackling the question, "Has there ever really been a righteous person?" The Skeptic's Annotated Bible identifies just four passages that answer "No" and more than eighty that answer "Yes." Is that a contradiction? By examining passages such as Romans 3, Genesis 15, Hebrews 11, and Matthew 23, Lance shows that Scripture uses the word righteous in two distinct senses: perfect righteousness, which belongs to Jesus Christ alone, and credited (imputed) righteousness, which God gives to those who trust Him by faith. Far from exposing a contradiction, the Bible presents a consistent message from Genesis to Revelation. When read in context, these passages point to the heart of the gospel: Jesus took our sin upon Himself and offers His righteousness to all who believe. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptic’s Annotated Bible – “Has there ever been a righteous person?” https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/righteous.html GotQuestions.org – “What does it mean that ‘there is none who does good, no not one’ (Psalm 14:3; Romans 3:12)?” https://www.gotquestions.org/none-who-does-good-no-not-one.html Ligonier Ministries / R.C. Sproul – “None Righteous” https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/none-righteous The Master’s Seminary Journal, Vol. 32 No. 1 (Spring 2021) Full PDF: https://tms.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/TMSJ-32.1-rev.11.24.pdf J.V. Fesko – “Imputed Righteousness: The Apostle Paul and Isaiah 53” Peter Sammons – “In My Place Obedient He Lived: Imputed Righteousness in Romans 5:18–19”

In Episode 280 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast, Lance Smith concludes Book Two of C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity by exploring Chapter Five, The Practical Conclusion. If Christianity is more than simply trying to be a better person, how does the new life Christ offers actually become ours? Lewis argues that God ordinarily imparts the Christ-life through baptism, belief, and Holy Communion, using ordinary means to accomplish extraordinary spiritual purposes. Lance also examines Lewis' responses to two common questions: What about those who have never heard of Christ? And why doesn't God reveal Himself unmistakably to everyone right now? Throughout the discussion, Lewis points listeners back to the urgency of responding to Christ while the opportunity remains. The episode concludes Book Two by emphasizing that the Christian life is not about earning God's favor through human effort, but about receiving His transforming life and allowing Him to continue His work within us. Next week, the series moves into Book Three as Lewis begins exploring what Christian behavior looks like in everyday life. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

In Episode 279, Lance Smith examines the apparent contradiction in Numbers 35:19 between God's command, "You shall not murder," and His authorization of the avenger of blood to execute a convicted murderer. He explains the biblical distinction between unlawful murder and lawful capital punishment, explores the purpose of the cities of refuge, and shows how God's law balanced justice with mercy through careful safeguards and due process. Finally, Lance demonstrates how the cities of refuge point forward to Christ as our ultimate refuge and how the New Testament continues to affirm both God's justice and His mercy through the teachings of Jesus and the role of governing authorities. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Guzik, David. “Numbers 35 Commentary.” Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-35/ Janković, S. “The Rationale Behind the Homicide Law in Numbers 35:30–34.” Andrews University. https://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1009&context=papers “The Cities of Refuge Law in Numbers 35:9-34: A Study of Its Sources.” University of Haifa. https://cris.haifa.ac.il/en/publications/the-cities-of-refuge-law-in-numbers-35934-a-study-of-its-sources-/ “The Good News of the Death Penalty.” Knowing Scripture. https://knowingscripture.com/articles/the-good-news-of-the-death-penalty Jackson, James. “Day 069: Cities of Refuge (Numbers 35).” https://jamesjackson.blog/2025/03/10/day-069-a-shelter-and-a-savior-numbers-35-36/ Garrett, Charlie. “Numbers 35:9-21 (A Place of Refuge).” Superior Word. https://superiorword.org/numbers-35-9-21-a-place-of-refuge/ “Avenger of Blood.” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/avenger-of-blood.html

Episode 278 examines the apparent contradiction in Matthew 23:35 concerning the identity of Zechariah's father. Was Jesus referring to Zechariah the son of Jehoiada in 2 Chronicles, the prophet Zechariah son of Berekiah, or someone else entirely? Lance Smith explores the leading explanations, including ancient naming conventions, possible textual variants, the case for the prophet Zechariah, and other historical traditions. He weighs the evidence behind each view and explains why he finds the connection to the Zechariah of 2 Chronicles the most convincing. Ultimately, the episode shows that the passage presents no genuine contradiction and that Jesus' primary purpose was not to identify Zechariah's father, but to condemn a long history of rejecting and persecuting God's messengers. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/zechariah.html  Eric Lyons, “Zechariah Who?” Apologetics Press, January 28, 2007: https://apologeticspress.org/zechariah-who-2078/ Dr. Tim Chaffey, “Contradictions: Was Jesus Wrong About Zechariah’s Father?” Answers in Genesis, February 28, 2012: https://answersingenesis.org/jesus/jesus-is-god/was-jesus-wrong-about-zechariahs-father/ Franklin, “Who Was the Zechariah Referred to in Matthew 23:35?” Reformed Baptist Christian Blogger, April 6, 2023: https://reformedbaptistchristianblogger.wordpress.com/2023/04/06/who-was-the-zechariah-referred-to-in-matthew-2335/ James Bradford Pate, “Two More Ideas on the Identity of Zechariah in Matthew 23:35,” April 6, 2016: https://jamesbradfordpate.wordpress.com/2016/04/06/two-more-ideas-on-the-identity-of-zechariah-in-matthew-2335/ Lynne Hilton Wilson, “The Confusing Case of Zacharias,” Religious Educator 14, no. 2 (2013): 107–123 (BYU Religious Studies Center): https://rsc.byu.edu/vol-14-no-2-2013/confusing-case-zacharias John MacPherson, “Zacharias: A Study of Matthew 23:35,” The Biblical World, Vol. 9, No. 1 (January 1897): https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/pdf/10.1086/472016 (and reprint discussion at American Vision)

Episode 277 unpacks C.S. Lewis's chapter "The Perfect Penitent," showing how humanity's rebellion makes true repentance impossible on our own and why only God becoming man in Jesus can accomplish our rescue. Host Lance Smith highlights Lewis' rescue metaphor, the necessity of Christ's dual nature, and the central Christian claim that Christ's death puts us right with God. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

In Episode 276, Lance Smith tackles an apparent contradiction between the wilderness itineraries in Numbers 21 and Numbers 33. Why do the lists of Israel's campsites differ if they're describing the same journey? Drawing from The Big Book of Bible Difficulties by Norman Geisler and Thomas Howe, along with additional biblical and scholarly sources, Lance explains how the two passages serve different purposes—Numbers 21 highlights key events along Israel's journey, while Numbers 33 preserves the official travel record Moses kept at God's command. Along the way, he explores selective reporting, alternate place names, the realities of moving a nation through the wilderness, and why ancient itineraries weren't meant to function like modern GPS directions. Rather than revealing a contradiction, the two accounts complement one another and provide a powerful reminder of God's faithful guidance through every step of Israel's forty-year journey. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Guzik, David. “Numbers 33 Commentary: Review of the Exodus.” Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-33/ Precept Austin. Numbers 33 Commentary. https://www.preceptaustin.org/numbers-33-commentary Superior Word. “Numbers 33:16-49 – The Journeys of Israel, Part II.” https://superiorword.org/numbers-33-16-49-the-journeys-of-israel-part-ii-from-sinai-to-the-plains-of-moab/ Ben-Gad HaCohen, David. “Ironing Out Israel’s Itinerary Through the Transjordan.” TheTorah.com. https://www.thetorah.com/article/ironing-out-israels-itinerary-through-the-transjordan DiMattei, Steven. “The Wilderness Itinerary from the Exodus to the Plains of Moab: An Introduction to Numbers 33.” contradictionsinthebible.com. http://contradictionsinthebible.com/wilderness-itinerary-numbers-33/ DiMattei, Steven. “Borders of Moab or Amorite.” contradictionsinthebible.com. (Relevant discussion tied to the itinerary; see related posts on the site). https://contradictionsinthebible.com/borders-of-moab-or-amorite/  Baden, Joel S. “The Narratives of Numbers 20-21.” JSTOR. https://www.jstor.org/stable/43728525

Did Jesus contradict Himself? In Matthew 23, Jesus tells the crowds to obey the Pharisees. Yet elsewhere He warns His disciples to beware of their teaching. At first glance, those statements seem impossible to reconcile. In Episode 275, Lance Smith examines the historical context behind "Moses' seat," explains the difference between God's Law and the traditions the Pharisees added to it, and shows why Jesus could both affirm their role as teachers and condemn their hypocrisy. Along the way, you'll discover what legalism really is, why truth doesn't depend on the character of the person speaking it, and how reading these passages in context completely resolves this alleged contradiction. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/do_what.html David Guzik, Enduring Word Bible Commentary, Matthew 23 (https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/matthew-23/) John F. Walvoord, "Jesus Condemns the Scribes and Pharisees," bible.org (https://bible.org/seriespage/23-jesus-condemns-scribes-and-pharisees) Precept Austin, Matthew 23 Commentary (https://www.preceptaustin.org/matthew-23-commentary) Phillip J. Long, "Pharisees and Religious Hypocrisy – Matthew 23:1-12," Reading Acts (https://readingacts.com/2022/05/03/pharisees-and-religious-hypocrisy-matthew-231-12/) Tim MacBride, "Pharisees in the hot seat (Matt 23:1-4)" (https://timmacbride.com/2016/05/11/pharisees-in-the-hot-seat-matt-231-4/) Ross K. Nichols, "The Seat of Moses: A Note on Matthew 23:2-3 According to Shem Tob's Hebrew Matthew," Bible and Interpretation (https://bibleinterp.arizona.edu/opeds/nichols357923) Jordan B. Cooper, "Does the Pharisees Sitting in Moses's Seat Prove Papal Authority?" (https://jordanbcooper.substack.com/p/does-the-pharisees-sitting-in-mosess) Noel S. Rabbinowitz, "Matthew 23:2-4: Does Jesus Recognize the Authority of the Pharisees and Does He Endorse Their Halakhah?" Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 46/3 (2003) (https://etsjets.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/files_JETS-PDFs_46_46-3_46-3-pp423-447_JETS.pdf) Kent T. Maitland, "The Pharisees: Their History, Character, and New Testament Portrait," Liberty Theological Review (https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1257&context=eleu)

In episode 274 Lance Smith walks through Chapter 3 of C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity, explaining why God gave creatures free will, how that freedom made evil possible, and why true happiness requires union with God. Lewis’ famous “Lord, Liar, or Lunatic” argument is highlighted: Jesus’ claims demand a response. The episode challenges listeners to choose how they understand Jesus and to keep asking honest questions. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

Numbers 31 contains one of the most difficult passages in the entire Old Testament. How could a holy and loving God command the destruction of the Midianites? In this episode, Lance Smith examines the historical and biblical context behind this challenging chapter, tracing the story back to Israel's rebellion at Baal Peor in Numbers 25. Along the way, he addresses common skeptical objections, explores what respected Christian scholars have said about the passage, and explains why Scripture presents these events as a unique act of divine judgment rather than arbitrary violence. If you've ever struggled with Numbers 31, or wondered how Christians should respond to questions about it, this episode offers a thoughtful, biblical perspective while ultimately pointing to God's justice, mercy, and redemption through Jesus Christ. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  “Why did God command the Israelites to completely destroy the Midianites in Numbers 31:17?” GotQuestions.org. Available at: https://www.gotquestions.org/Numbers-31-17-Midianites.html Guzik, David. “Numbers 31 – Vengeance on Midian.” Enduring Word Bible Commentary. Available at: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-31/ “Numbers 31 Commentary.” Precept Austin (includes material from Gleason Archer). Available at: https://www.preceptaustin.org/numbers-31-commentary “The Killings of Numbers 31.” Apologetics Press. Available at: https://apologeticspress.org/the-killings-of-numbers-31-763/ Engheta, Matthew. “Did God Command Genocide in Numbers 31?” Reasonable Apologetics (Medium). Available at: https://medium.com/reasonable-apologetics/did-god-command-genocide-in-numbers-31-984e715df861 “What about God’s cruelty against the Midianites?” Christian Think Tank. Available at: https://www.christian-thinktank.com/midian.html Dawkins, Richard. The Root of All Evil? (Channel 4 documentary, 2006). Widely available on video platforms. Hitchens, Christopher. God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything (2007); also 2007 debate with Al Sharpton. Andrews, Seth. Deconverted: A Journey from Religion to Reason (2012); also content on The Thinking Atheist channel.

Episode 272 examines the difficult charge that the Bible endorses slavery by distinguishing ancient biblical servitude from modern chattel slavery, reviewing key Old and New Testament passages, and noting protections and limits found in Scripture. The episode also connects the biblical trajectory toward human dignity with the church’s role in opposing historical and contemporary forms of slavery, including human trafficking and forced labor. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/slavery.html  Apologetics Canada. Does the Bible Endorse Slavery? YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qemsox_PlCo CARM. Does the Bible Approve of Slavery? https://carm.org/does-the-bible-approve-of-slavery Global Slavery Index 2023. Walk Free Foundation. https://www.walkfree.org/global-slavery-index/ Mako A. Nagasawa. Slavery in the Bible and Slavery Today. New Humanity Institute. http://www.newhumanityinstitute.org/pdfs/article-slavery-in-the-bible.pdf Midtown Columbia. Does God Condone Slavery? https://midtowncolumbia.com/blog/does-god-condone-slavery Gavin Ortlund. "Is the Bible Pro-Slavery?" The Gospel Coalition, July 2, 2024. Skeptics Annotated Bible. Does God Approve of Slavery? https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/slavery.html U.S. Department of State. Trafficking in Persons Report (annual edition). https://www.state.gov/trafficking-in-persons-report/ United Nations and International Labour Organization. Global Estimates of Modern Slavery. Human Rights Watch. Reports on slavery and human trafficking in Mauritania and Libya. https://www.hrw.org/ BBC News. Investigative reporting on slavery in Libya and Mauritania. https://www.bbc.com/  Hochschild, Adam. Bury the Chains: Prophets and Rebels in the Fight to Free an Empire's Slaves. Houghton Mifflin, 2005. Copan, Paul. Is God a Moral Monster? Making Sense of the Old Testament God. Baker Books, 2011. 

In this episode, we continue through C.S. Lewis’s Mere Christianity with Book Two, Chapter Two — The Invasion. Lewis takes on Dualism, the idea that two equal powers — one good and one evil — are locked in an eternal war. He argues that this view ultimately fails because evil is not an independent force. Evil is “spoiled goodness” — a parasite that must borrow its power from good in order to exist. This is why Christianity has always said the devil is a fallen angel. Lewis then offers one of his most striking images: “Enemy-occupied territory — that is what this world is. Christianity is the story of how the rightful King has landed, you might say landed in disguise, and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign of sabotage.” This chapter challenges the comfortable, feel-good version of Christianity so common today. Lewis reminds us that real Christianity has both a heart and a head. It tells us we are loved, but it also tells us the truth about the war we’re in — and calls us to join the King in taking back enemy-occupied territory. And unlike every other rebellion in history, this one ends in victory, because the King has already conquered through His death and resurrection. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk  

Host Lance Smith examines the apparent discrepancy between Numbers 25 and 1 Corinthians 10 about whether 23,000 or 24,000 Israelites died after the Baal Peor incident, explaining that Moses records the total deaths while Paul specifies that 23,000 fell in a single day. The episode reviews the background—Israel’s compromise with Moabite worship, Phinehas’ decisive action, and God’s judgment—and shows how careful reading resolves the numbers. The episode concludes with practical lessons: Paul’s purpose was pastoral, not statistical, urging believers to learn from Israel’s failure, resist gradual compromise, and rely on Christ’s mercy rather than human perfection. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Lyons, Eric. "A Slip of the Mind?" Apologetics Press, 2001. https://apologeticspress.org/a-slip-of-the-mind-875/ Manning, Gary. "Were There 23,000 or 24,000 Slain?" Evidence Unseen. https://evidenceunseen.com/new-testament/1-corinthians/difficulties/were-there-23000-or-24000-slain/ Guzik, David. Numbers 25 Commentary. Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-25/ Mody, Rohintan. "Did Paul's Abacus Break? Numbers 25:9 and 1 Corinthians 10:7–10." Churchman 121, no. 1 (2007). https://www.churchsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Cman_121_1_Mody.pdf "Why 24,000 vs. 23,000 Deaths?" Bible Hub. https://biblehub.com/q/why_24,000_vs._23,000_deaths.htm "Israel's Whoredom as a Warning for Us (1 Corinthians 10:5–11)." Knowing Scripture. https://knowingscripture.com/articles/israels-whoredom-as-a-warning-for-us-1-corinthians-10-5-11 Grant Richison. "1 Corinthians 10:8–11." Verse by Verse Commentary. https://versebyversecommentary.com/2002/10/20/1-corinthians-108-11/ "Bible Contradiction? How Many Did God Kill for Committing Whoredom with the Daughters of Moab?" Veritas Domain. https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2022/09/06/bible-contradiction-how-many-did-god-kill-for-committing-whoredom-with-the-daughters-of-moab/ "Did Paul Contradict Moses in 1 Corinthians 10:8?" Thoughts on Biblical Subjects. https://thoughtsonbiblicalsubjects.blogspot.com/2012/08/did-paul-contradict-moses-in-1.html

In this episode Lance Smith examines apparent differences between Matthew and Mark about when Jesus cursed the fig tree and when it withered, arguing the accounts reflect different emphases rather than a contradiction. He explains Mark’s chronological “sandwich” and Matthew’s focus on immediacy, and connects the fig tree’s fruitlessness to a symbolic judgment on hollow religiosity. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/fig_temple.html and https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/fig.html  Evidence Unseen: Does this account of Jesus cursing the fig tree contradict Mark’s account? https://evidenceunseen.com/new-testament/matthew/difficulties/does-this-account-of-jesus-cursing-the-fig-tree-contradict-marks-account-mk-1111-15-19-25 The Gospel Coalition: Why Did Jesus Curse the Fig Tree? by Greg Lanier (October 2, 2018) https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/jesus-curse-fig-tree/ Enduring Word Bible Commentary: Mark 11 by David Guzik https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-11/ Gutenberg.edu: Making Sense of Jesus Cursing the Fig Tree https://gutenberg.edu/making-sense-of-jesus-cursing-the-fig-tree/ GotQuestions.org: Why did Jesus curse the fig tree? https://www.gotquestions.org/curse-fig-tree.html Catholic.com: Why Does Jesus Curse the Fig Tree? https://www.catholic.com/magazine/online-edition/why-does-jesus-curse-the-fig-tree Keel, Perry S. Research Paper: The Temple Cleansing in John 2:13-22 and The Cursing of the Fig Tree in Matthew 21:18-22 (NBST815) Simmonds, Andrew. “Cursing the Fig Tree in Mark” (2015)

This week we step into Book Two of Mere Christianity as C.S. Lewis begins unpacking what Christians actually believe about God. Lewis addresses a common question: Do Christians have to believe every other religion is entirely wrong? He then explores the major division between those who see God as “beyond good and evil” and those who believe God is good, righteous, and actively calls us to set right what has gone wrong in His world. In one of the most famous passages in the book, Lewis explains why Christianity has always carried a “fighting edge” — not against people, but against evil and brokenness itself. He also delivers his well-known argument: “A man does not call a line crooked unless he has some idea of a straight line.” If you’ve ever wondered how Christianity makes sense of the injustice and suffering we see in the world, this episode offers clear, thoughtful insight from one of the 20th century’s greatest apologists. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

This episode examines Numbers 24:7, where Balaam's oracle says Israel's king will be greater than Agag—though the famous Agag in 1 Samuel lived centuries later. The host explains common solutions: Agag may have been a dynastic title for Amalekite rulers, prophetic foresight, or a case of later names used for clarity. The discussion touches on the Septuagint reading "Gog," the historical context of Amalek, and how the prophecy points beyond Saul and David to the ultimate king in the Davidic line. Practical and scholarly perspectives are offered to resolve the apparent chronological difficulty. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Guzik, David. “Numbers 24 – The Prophecies of Balaam (continued).” Enduring Word. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-24/ Precept Austin. “Numbers 24 Commentary.” https://www.preceptaustin.org/numbers-24-commentary Translation Insights and Perspectives. “Translation commentary on Numbers 24:7.” https://tips.translation.bible/story/translation-commentary-on-numbers-247/ Biblical Scholarship. “Commentary on Numbers 23:27-24:13.” https://biblicalscholarship.wordpress.com/2017/09/03/commentary-on-numbers-2327-2413/ Additional background consultation included Bible Hub cross-references and related articles on biblical prophecy and intertextual themes. These supplementary resources informed the study but were not directly quoted.

Sidebar Episode: 2026 Midyear Review (Episode 266) Hello again, everybody! Join host Lance Smith for a special midyear check-in on the Bible Difficulties and Answers Podcast. Whether you’ve been listening since our 2023 trailer or you’re just joining us, this episode is packed with encouragement, gratitude, and the latest numbers showing how God continues to use this little podcast. We take a honest look back at the first half of 2026: • 11,755 downloads — a strong 70.8% increase over the first half of 2025 • Average ~1,959 downloads per month and ~245 downloads per episode (up from 143 last year) • On pace for over 23,000 downloads in full-year 2026 • International growth exploding: U.S. at 65.17%, with big surges from Singapore (13.94%) and Canada (10.70%), plus listeners across the UK, Germany, Hong Kong, and many more countries • Desktop listening surging (Windows at 29.77%, Google Chrome leading sources at 27.72%) alongside strong mobile numbers We also celebrate the ongoing Tuesday Contradictions series (born from your feedback) and the well-loved Sunday series walking through C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity. Plus, Lance shares listener patterns, favorite moments, and why these “numbers” really represent people opening their Bibles and wrestling with God’s Word. This episode is full of gratitude, honest reflection, and excitement for what’s ahead in the second half of 2026. Slow thinking still beats fast answers—thank you for being part of this community! Links & Ways to Connect: • Website: https://bibledifficultiesandanswers.podbean.com • Email questions: [email protected] • Facebook Group: Bible Difficulties and Answers (great conversations happen here!) • Support (optional): https://buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith If this podcast has encouraged you, please: ✅ Tell two friends about it ✅ Leave a 5-star rating/review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Podbean, etc. ✅ Join the conversation in our Facebook group New episodes drop regularly—subscribe so you never miss one!

Episode 265 examines the alleged gospel contradiction about Jesus riding a donkey and its colt into Jerusalem. The host explains how Matthew mentions two animals present while Mark, Luke, and John focus on the colt Jesus rode, showing the accounts are complementary rather than contradictory. The episode also explores how Matthew’s detail highlights fulfillment of Zechariah’s prophecy and offers practical reasons—like keeping the colt calm—for bringing the mother donkey. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/one-or-two.html  CARLSON, S. C. (2019). “The Jenny and the Colt” in Matthew’s Messianic Entry, Part 1: Matthew 21:5 as a Reading of Zechariah 9:9 in Light of Mark 11:1-10. The Catholic Biblical Quarterly, 81(1), 62–84. http://www.jstor.org/stable/26649077  Eric Lyons, “A Donkey and Her Colt,” Apologetics Press: https://apologeticspress.org/a-donkey-and-her-colt-773/ “Did Jesus Ride into Jerusalem on One Donkey or Two?,” Reluctant Xtian: https://reluctantxtian.com/2020/04/03/did-jesus-ride-into-jerusalem-on-one-donkey-or-two/ “Jesus rode into Jerusalem on one or two donkeys? The Triumphal Entry in the Gospels,” Essential Church: https://essentialchurch.net/2018/01/29/jesus-rode-into-jerusalem-on-one-or-two-donkeys-the-triumphal-entry-in-the-gospels/ “Did Jesus ride more than one donkey in His triumphal entry?,” Compelling Truth: https://www.compellingtruth.org/Jesus-ride-one-two-donkeys.html Wayne Coppins, “Sitting on Two Asses? Second Thoughts on the Two-Animal Interpretation of Matthew 21:7”: https://religion.uga.edu/sites/default/files/inline-files/Sitting-on-Two-Asses.pdf Catherine Sider Hamilton, “Commentary on Matthew 21:1-11,” Working Preacher: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/sunday-of-the-passion-palm-sunday/commentary-on-matthew-2711-54-7 Instone-Brewer, David. "The Two Asses of Zechariah 9:9 in Matthew 21." Tyndale Bulletin 54.1 (2003), pp. 87–98. https://tyndalebulletin.org/article/30226-the-two-asses-of-zechariah-9-9-in-matthew-21.pdf 

Episode 264 explores C.S. Lewis' chapter five of Mere Christianity, where he argues that Christianity begins when we honestly face the moral law, recognize our failure, and receive forgiveness. Lance Smith guides listeners through Lewis' candid diagnosis of the human condition and the path from uneasy conviction to real comfort. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk

Episode 263 explores Numbers 22: the odd story of Balaam, his talking donkey, and the angel who blocks the road. The episode examines the apparent contradiction where God permits Balaam to go yet becomes angry, and recounts the humorous and sobering events as the donkey repeatedly avoids the angel while Balaam remains blind to it. The host explains that God’s permission was conditional while His opposition targeted Balaam’s greedy motives; the donkey’s interventions are shown as merciful corrections. The episode emphasizes that God judges intentions as well as actions and uses this strange episode to teach humility and divine sovereignty. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Miller, Jeff. “Why Was God Mad at Balaam for Going If He Said He Could?” Apologetics Press. https://apologeticspress.org/qa-why-was-god-mad-at-balaam-for-going-if-he-said-he-could-4829/ Guzik, David. Enduring Word Commentary on Numbers 22. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-22/ Wax, Trevin. “Donkeys and Diviners Are Under God’s Hand.” The Gospel Coalition. https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/donkeys-diviners-gods-hand/ “Why does God tell Balaam to go with the Moabites and then get angry because he went?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/Balaam-God-change-mind.html Laurie, Greg. “Angels Stop Us.” Harvest.org. https://harvest.org/resources/devotion/angels-stop-us/ Schorer-Finkelman, Nava. “Understanding Balaam’s Donkey: An Intertextual Approach.” Jewish Bible Quarterly. https://jbqnew.jewishbible.org/assets/Uploads/492/jbq_492_schorerbalaam.pdf Frisch, Amos. “The Story of Balaam’s Ass (Numbers 22:21–35): A New Literary Insight.” Hebrew Studies 56 (2015): 103–113. https://www.academia.edu/22340493/_The_Story_of_Balaam_s_Ass_Numbers_22_21_35_A_New_Literary_Insight_Hebrew_Studies_56_2015_pp_103_113  

This episode examines the apparent contradiction between John and the Synoptic Gospels about when Jesus cleansed the temple—early in his ministry or during Passion Week. After comparing details and timing, the host argues the simplest solution is that Jesus likely cleansed the temple twice, highlighting his consistent zeal for true worship and confronting corrupt practices. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/tantrum.html  Clayton Kraby, “Did Jesus Cleanse the Temple Once or Twice? A Look at the Facts” – https://reasonabletheology.org/did-jesus-cleanse-the-temple-once-or-twice-evidence-for-twice/ Dr. Tim Chaffey, “The Temple Cleansing” – https://answersingenesis.org/jesus/the-temple-cleansing/ Eric Lyons, “Chronology and the Cleansing of the Temple” – https://apologeticspress.org/chronology-and-the-cleansing-of-the-temple-660/ GotQuestions.org, “How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple?” – https://www.gotquestions.org/temple-cleanse.html Ligonier Ministries, “Jesus Cleanses the Temple” – https://learn.ligonier.org/devotionals/jesus-cleanses-the-temple Allan Chapple, “Jesus’ Intervention in the Temple: Once or Twice?” – https://faithalone.org/journal-articles/jesus-intervention-in-the-temple-once-or-twice/ Reading Acts blog, “John 2:13-25 – The Temple Incident” – https://readingacts.com/2012/11/30/john-213-25-the-temple-incident-2/ Jimmy Akin (Catholic Answers), “Jesus Cleansing the Temple—Why and When?” – https://www.catholic.com/audio/tjap/jesus-cleansing-the-temple-why-and-when

In this episode Lance Smith walks through chapter 4 of C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity, examining the moral law and whether something like a mind or director lies behind the universe. He contrasts the materialist and religious views, explains why science can’t answer the “why” behind existence, and points to our inner sense of ‘ought’ as a clue. The host invites listeners to notice the inner tug of conscience, honestly consider its source, and continue the series into chapter 5 where Lewis explores why that unease can be good news. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected] Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk  

Episode 260 examines the bronze serpent in Numbers 21 and the apparent conflict with the second commandment, explaining how the image functioned as a God-given symbol — not an idol — and how Israel later misused it. The episode explores the historical context, the difference between symbol and worship, Hezekiah’s destruction of Nahushtan, and Jesus’ reference in John 3 that the bronze serpent foreshadowed his being lifted up for salvation. It closes with practical lessons about guarding against turning good things into substitutes for God. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Gill, David L. “Snakes on a Plain: Numbers 21:4-9.” Covenant Theological Seminary paper, November 24, 2010. Available at: https://www.academia.edu/12579792/Snakes_on_a_Plain_Numbers_21_4_9 GotQuestions.org. “Why is a bronze serpent used to save the Israelites in Numbers 21:8-9?” https://www.gotquestions.org/bronze-serpent.html JesusPlusNothing.com. “Faith, Idolatry and the Bronze Serpent.” https://jesusplusnothing.com/series/post/Wilderness8Num21 ChristOverall.com. “Snakes Alive!? or How Jesus Fulfills Numbers 21.” https://christoverall.com/article/concise/snakes-alive-or-how-jesus-fulfills-numbers-21/ Keystone Project. “Lessons from the Bronze Serpent.” https://www.keystoneproject.org/blog/lessons-from-the-bronze-serpent BibleHub. “Why would God command Moses to create a bronze serpent?” https://biblehub.com/q/why_did_god_command_a_bronze_serpent.htm TheTorah.com. “Nehushtan, the Copper Serpent: Its Origins and Fate.” https://www.thetorah.com/article/nehushtan-the-copper-serpent-its-origins-and-fate Awabdy, Mark A. “Snake Iconography, Mythology, and the Meaning of the Bronze Snake Image in Numbers 21:4–9 and 2 Kings 18:4.” The Asbury Journal 77, no. 2 (2022): 217–244. https://place.asburyseminary.edu/asburyjournal/vol77/iss2/5 (PDF available via the site) YouthPastorTheologian.com. “The Bronze Snake and John 3:16… A Lesson in Typology.” https://www.youthpastortheologian.com/blog/the-bronze-snake-and-john-316-a-lesson-in-typology

Episode 259 explores the story of Jesus healing blind men near Jericho and tackles the apparent discrepancy where Matthew records two blind men while Mark and Luke spotlight only Bartimaeus. The episode explains that the accounts are complementary: Matthew records the total number, Mark and Luke focus on the most notable witness, and historical/contextual details (like two Jerichos) reconcile differences—showing the Gospels offer multiple, harmonious perspectives on the same event. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/blindmen.html  GotQuestions.org, “Did Jesus heal two blind men or one blind man?” – https://www.gotquestions.org/one-two-blind-men.html Eric Lyons, “Controversial Jericho,” Apologetics Press – https://apologeticspress.org/controversial-jericho-666/ SlimJim, “Bible Contradiction? How many blind men were healed near Jericho?,” Veritas Domain – https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2018/10/04/bible-contradiction-how-many-blind-men-were-healed-near-jericho/ Peter Goeman, “Does Blind Bartimaeus Expose a Contradiction in the Gospels?” (2026) – https://petergoeman.com/does-blind-bartimaeus-expose-a-contradiction-in-the-gospels/ Good Question Blog, “Why does Matthew say that Jesus healed two blind men...” – https://goodquestionblog.com/2020/07/05/why-does-matthew-say-that-jesus-healed-two-bind-men-outside-jericho-when-mark-and-luke-only-say-one/ Dr. Jim, “Two Blind Men Are Healed Near Jericho” – https://drjimsebt.com/2023/06/21/two-blind-men-are-healed-near-jericho/ Debie Thomas, “Blind Bartimaeus,” JourneyWithJesus.net – https://www.journeywithjesus.net/essays/412-blind-bartimaeus

Episode 258 explores C.S. Lewis’s chapter 3 of Mere Christianity, examining the mysterious Moral Law that tells us how we ought to behave even when we don't. Lance Smith unpacks Lewis’ argument that this ‘ought’ is real, not merely social convention or instinct. Listen for the key takeaways: notice the gap between what you ought to do and what you do, feel the inner pressure of moral obligation, and ask what or Who placed that law in us. Next week’s episode moves into chapter 4 to investigate the source behind the law. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk 

Episode 257 examines the apparent contradiction between Numbers and Deuteronomy about Israel’s encounter with Edom, using geography, Hebrew language, historical commentary, and archaeology to show the two accounts describe different aspects of the same journey. Rather than a contradiction, the episode presents a harmonizing view: Israel was denied passage through Edom’s heartland, took a longer route around its borders, interacted peacefully along the edges, and followed God’s guidance—a lesson about detours and faithful direction. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  James, Mike. “Another Alleged Bible Discrepancy.” Church of God International, September 14, 2023. https://www.cgi.org/news-and-events/2023/9/14/another-alleged-bible-discrepancy Seeking Scripture Team. “Sidebar: Is There A Contradiction Between Deuteronomy 2 and Numbers 20?” https://seekingscripture.com/sidebar-is-there-a-contradiction-between-deuteronomy-2-and-numbers-20/ Glatt-Gilad, David A. “Reimagining the Israelite-Edomite Encounter.” TheTorah.com, 2016. https://www.thetorah.com/article/reimagining-the-israelite-edomite-encounter “You Shall Not Pass: Israelite Encounter with Edomites and Fear-Based Policy.” HIAS.org PDF. https://hias.org/wp-content/uploads/You-Shall-Not-Pass-Israelite-Encounter-with-Edomites-and-Fear-Based-Policy.pdf  Guzik, David. Enduring Word Commentary on Numbers 20. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-20/ “Evidence of Elusive Edom.” Biblical Archaeology Review / Biblical Archaeology Society. https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/evidence-of-elusive-edom/  Bienkowski, Piotr. “The Emergence of Edom: Recent Debate.” ANEToday, March 2023. https://anetoday.org/bienkowski-emergence-edom/ Nagtegaal, Brent. “Archaeology Confirms Biblical Account of Edomite Statehood.” Armstrong Institute, November 12, 2019. https://armstronginstitute.org/201-archaeology-confirms-biblical-account-of-edomite-statehood

In this episode Lance Smith examines an apparent Bible difficulty: Jesus says he gave his life as a ransom for many, while Paul says Christ purchased freedom for everyone. He explains how different authors emphasize different facets of the same truth, explores Calvinist and Arminian perspectives, and presents the idea that the atonement can be sufficient for all yet effective for those who believe. The episode also discusses God's foreknowledge and human free will with a clear illustration, then highlights practical implications for evangelism and personal assurance. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/ransom.html  Frank Turek video: “If God knows our choices before we make them, are we truly free?” https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1221904213172171  Veritas Domain. “Bible Contradiction? Was Jesus a ransom for many or a ransom for all?” November 13, 2020. https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/bible-contradiction-was-jesus-a-ransom-for-many-or-a-ransom-for-all/ GotQuestions.org. “Limited Atonement – Is it Biblical?” https://www.gotquestions.org/limited-atonement.html GotQuestions.org. “Is the Atonement of Christ Unlimited?” https://www.gotquestions.org/unlimited-atonement.html GotQuestions.org. “What does it mean that Jesus came to give His life as a ransom for many?” https://www.gotquestions.org/give-His-life-as-a-ransom-for-many.html Kayser, Phillip G. “Ransom Paid: Does the Bible Limit the Atonement?” Biblical Blueprints. https://biblicalblueprints.com/Booklets/Ransom-Paid Allen, David L. “Yes, Jesus Did Die for [the Sins of] Everyone!” https://drdavidlallen.com/yes-jesus-did-die-for-the-sins-of-everyone/ Piper, John. “Isn’t Unlimited Atonement More Glorious Than Limited Atonement?” Desiring God. https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/isnt-unlimited-atonement-more-glorious-than-limited-atonement Wilkin, Bob. “Is Jesus the Ransom for Many or for All? (Matthew 20:28).” Faith Alone. https://faithalone.org/blog/is-jesus-the-ransom-for-many-or-for-all-matthew-2028/

In this episode Lance Smith walks through chapter two of C.S. Lewis’ Mere Christianity, tackling common objections to the moral law—especially that it’s merely instinct or a social convention. Using Lewis’ piano analogy and examples like belief in witches and moral reformers, the episode argues for an objective, binding ‘I ought to’ that guides our choices. Listen for practical takeaways: notice the inner voice telling you what you ought to do, consider whether you treat it as real, and join the conversation as the series continues into the origin of the moral law next week. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk 

This episode examines the apparent contradiction about Kadesh’s location in Numbers, exploring two main solutions: that Kadesh sat in a border zone between the wildernesses of Zin and Paran, or that two sites shared the name. It reviews biblical passages, historical and archaeological evidence, and ancient commentators, and concludes that overlapping regional terms best explain the wording. The episode also reflects on Kadesh’s role in Israel’s story as a place of provision and testing, and how understanding ancient geography helps resolve modern reading challenges without undermining the text’s reliability. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Ben-Gad HaCohen, David. “Solving the Problem of ‘Kadesh in the Wilderness of Paran’.” TheTorah.com, 2015. https://www.thetorah.com/article/solving-the-problem-of-kadesh-in-the-wilderness-of-paran “Wilderness Wanderings: Where is Kadesh?” Biblical Archaeology Society. https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/biblical-sites-places/biblical-archaeology-places/wilderness-wanderings-where-is-kadesh/ Bible.ca article on the Wilderness of Paran. https://www.bible.ca/archeology/bible-archeology-exodus-route-wilderness-of-paran.htm “Contradictory Kadesh Traditions.” contradictionsinthebible.com. http://contradictionsinthebible.com/contradictory-kadesh-traditions/ Bible Mapper: “Kadesh-Barnea and Its Surroundings.” https://biblemapper.com/blog/index.php/2024/01/15/kadesh-barnea-and-its-surroundings/ Jewish Virtual Library: Kadesh. https://jewishvirtuallibrary.org/kadesh HolyLandSite.com: Kadesh Barnea. https://www.holylandsite.com/kadesh-barnea Finkelstein, Israel. “Kadesh Barnea: A Reevaluation of Its Archaeology and History.” Tel Aviv 37 (2010). https://israelfinkelstein.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/kadesh-barnea-tel-aviv-37-1.pdf

In this episode Lance Smith examines an apparent contradiction in Scripture: verses that portray Jesus as limited in his human life (unable to grant honors or do many miracles in Nazareth) versus verses that declare he now has all authority after the resurrection. The answer is the doctrine of the Incarnation and kenosis — Jesus is truly God and truly human, voluntarily accepting human limitations while remaining divine. By the end you'll have a clear, simple framework to explain these passages, strengthen your faith, and confidently respond to skeptics. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/power.html  GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/kenosis.html  Christ is the Cure: “Christ Emptied Himself – The Kenosis of Christ” https://christisthecure.org/christ-emptied-himself-the-kenosis-of-christ/  Evidence Unseen: “The Incarnation” https://evidenceunseen.com/theology/christ/the-incarnation  Mike Riccardi: “Veiled in Flesh the Godhead See” (TMSJ) https://tms.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Riccardi-Veiled-in-Flesh-the-Godhead-See-TMSJ-Printed.pdf  William Lane Craig: “The Incarnate Christ’s Knowledge” https://www.biola.edu/blogs/good-book-blog/2024/the-incarnate-christ-s-knowledge  Brian Hufing: https://brianhuffling.com/did-jesus-even-claim-to-be-god/  Monergism: https://www.monergism.com/kenosis-0 

Host Lance Smith opens episode 252 of the Bible Difficulties and Answers podcast with the start of a 33-week walk through C.S. Lewis's Mere Christianity. This week focuses on Book 1, Chapter 1, "The Law of Human Nature," exploring Lewis's observation that people everywhere appeal to a shared standard of right and wrong and that we frequently fail to live up to it. Smith invites listeners to notice everyday moments of moral complaint and to consider where the sense of "ought" comes from, teasing Chapter 2 for the following week. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Lewis, C.S. Mere Christianity. HarperOne, 2001. Available at: https://a.co/d/0eXcvERk 

This episode examines Numbers 16 and the question of whether Korah’s entire family was swallowed by the earth. It explains how Numbers 26 clarifies that Korah’s sons separated from the rebellion and were spared. The episode highlights that while judgment fell on those who joined the revolt, mercy preserved the faithful remnant—whose descendants later became temple singers, psalmists, and ancestors of Samuel. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Geisler, Norman L., and Thomas Howe. The Big Book of Bible Difficulties. Baker Books, 1992. Available at: https://a.co/d/7shn4hI  Guzik, David. Enduring Word Commentary on Numbers 16. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/numbers-16/ Garris, Zachary. “The Faithful Sons of the Rebel Korah (Numbers 16).” KnowingScripture.com. https://knowingscripture.com/articles/the-faithful-sons-of-the-rebel-korah-numbers-16 “What was the significance of the rebellion of Korah?” GotQuestions.org. https://www.gotquestions.org/rebellion-of-Korah.html Albright, Charlie. “Numbers 16:16-35 (Korah Meets His Maker).” SuperiorWord.org. https://superiorword.org/numbers-16-16-35-korah-meets-his-maker/ “The Redemption of Korah: the Sons of Korah.” Navigating by Faith. https://navigatingbyfaith.com/2020/07/04/the-redemption-of-korah-the-sons-of-korah/ “Numbers 16:23-35: The Sons of Korah Resist The Pull of Rebellion.” Edge Induced Cohesion. https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011/03/19/numbers-16-23-35-the-sons-of-korah-resist-the-pull-of-rebellion/

Episode 250 examines Matthew 20:20–21 and Mark 10:35–37, addressing the apparent discrepancy over who asked Jesus for places of honor. The episode explains that both accounts describe the same event: the mother likely voiced the request while her sons stood beside her, reflecting different emphases by the Gospel writers. The episode also explores the message behind the request—ambition and misunderstanding of Jesus' kingdom—and how Jesus teaches servant leadership, turning a moment of pride into a lesson on humility and sacrifice. References to items discussed and/or used on this podcast may be found at the following: buymeacoffee.com/lancesmith  The Bible Difficulties and Answers Website The Bible Difficulties and Answers Facebook Page Email Address: [email protected]  Skeptics Annotated Bible: https://www.skepticsannotatedbible.com/contra/best_seats.html  David Wright, “Contradictions: Mother Knows Best,” Answers in Genesis. https://answersingenesis.org/contradictions-in-the-bible/mother-knows-best/ Eric Lyons, “Who Made the Request to Sit at Jesus’ Side?,” Apologetics Press. https://apologeticspress.org/who-made-the-request-to-sit-at-jesus-side-4121/ “Bible Contradiction? Who asked for the best seats in heaven?,” Veritas Domain. https://veritasdomain.wordpress.com/2021/03/04/bible-contradiction-who-asked-for-the-best-seats-in-heaven/ Stephen J. Graham, “Does Matthew 20 contradict Mark 10?,” stephenjgraham.wordpress.com. https://stephenjgraham.wordpress.com/2016/12/12/does-matthew-20-contradict-mark-10/ Bible Hub community discussion: https://biblehub.com/q/why_does_matthew_mention_their_mother.htm Phil Long, “The Mother of James and John Asks for a Favor – Matthew 20:20–21,” Reading Acts. https://readingacts.com/2022/03/02/the-mother-of-james-and-john-asks-for-a-favor-matthew-2020-21/