Covenants and Kingdoms

After the massacre at Shechem, Jacob's family sits in a foreign land, surrounded by hostile nations, their tents full of plundered goods and foreign idols. The covenant promises of land, seed, and blessing feel like a distant memory. Something has to give. In Episode 29, Nathan and Brad walk through Genesis 35:1-15 and Jacob's long-overdue return to Bethel. It's a moment of reckoning: put away the foreign gods, purify yourselves, change your garments. But before Jacob does any of it, God calls first. This chapter is one of the most theologically loaded in Genesis, a covenant renewal ceremony hiding in plain sight, a fulfillment of a 20-year-old vow, and a preview of the pattern that will define Israel's entire relationship with Yahweh for centuries to come. From Hosea to Isaiah to Paul, the echoes of Bethel never quite go away. ----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order! Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/ Scripture reading provided by Laurie Mullinax at https://www.mullinaxvo.com/

In our 28th episode, Nathan and Brad cover a very sensitive topic from Genesis 34. There are many passages in scripture that you may not want your children to read yet. This episode covers one of those passages, so this is one for them to skip, even though we know they are very big fans of ancient near-eastern studies. While Jacob's daughter Dinah was out in the land, the prince of the land assaulted and defiled her. This was a grotesque crime that warranted a violent response from her father, but Jacob seemingly does nothing. His sons were outraged, and decided to continue their family's legacy of deceit and destroy and plunder the entire city. Was Jacob justified in having no response? Were his sons justified in mass murder and kidnapping? There is so much more to this story than what is on the surface. Join us as we dig in and uncover what we can.----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order! Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/ Scripture reading provided by Laurie Mullinax at https://www.mullinaxvo.com/

When Jacob last saw Esau, there was deception, theft, and death threats. Jacob spent decades building a life, family, and flocks, but had the strife with his brother hanging over him the entire time. Now Jacob is returning, but how will Esau greet him? We find out in Genesis 33 that Esau comes with an army of men, but is it for battle, protection, or celebration? ----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order! Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/ Scripture reading provided by Laurie Mullinax at https://www.mullinaxvo.com/

Jacob and Laban have settled their differences, Laban has gone home, and all Jacob's problems are gone! Well, other than Esau, who Jacob stole everything from, and the whole reason Jacob fled his homeland in the first place. In this episode Nathan and Brad cover Genesis 32, where Jacob gets word that Esau is coming toward him with 400 men (either an army or a big party, we haven't found out yet!), Jacob sends a giant farm's worth of animals to him as a gift, then a strange man out of nowhere wrestles Jacob all night and gives him a limp.Who is this mysterious man? Why does he want to wrestle Jacob? How many goats would make a good peace offering for a sibling? Tune in and find out!----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/Scripture reading provided by Laurie Mullinax at https://www.mullinaxvo.com/

We've already covered Laban deceiving Jacob with his daughters, then Jacob turning goats colors to take Laban's livestock, and now Laban is hunting Jacob down to take it all back! Does Laban defeat Jacob in an epic battle? Does Jacob escape with magic tricks and secret tunnels? Tune in as we work through Genesis 31, orders from God, stolen household gods, camel saddles, heaps of stones, but unfortunately no mirth.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Our last two episodes covered how Jacob had been a trickster since birth, then was tricked himself by Laban. Today we cover Genesis 30 where Jacob asks to leave Laban, and comes out with a whole new set of tricks to make sure he gets the best of Laban's flocks. The passage has all kinds of back and forth with stripes, spots, sticks, and water, but what does it all mean? Is it some divine miracle, a convenient coincidence, or basic medicine and genetics? Nathan and Brad read through and comment on a blog post that can help shed some light on the subject.The blog post we are reading through:https://answersingenesis.org/genetics/animal-genetics/jacobs-odd-breeding-program-genesis-30/?srsltid=AfmBOorpQpn7c5rCVtKHs8HM6Pv0BcobUHTfQYrf1YET1bwKwe9zlGBZ----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Our last episode showed Jacob and his tendency to deceive. He deceived Esau to get the birthright, then deceived his father to get Esau's blessing. In this episode Nathan and Brad show how the tables have turned, and Jacob is the one being deceived! Jacob labors for over half a decade to marry the woman of his dreams, just to be tricked into marrying the wrong sister, and having to work another 7 years for the bride he was promised in the beginning. There isn't room in the description for all the conspiring and fighting between his wives, you'll have to watch the episode for that!----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Sibling rivalry takes center stage in this episode as Nathan kicks things off with the wild Roman myth of Romulus and Remus, brothers raised by wolves, founding Rome amid betrayal and murder, drawing parallels to Cain and Abel, and setting up the epic clash between Esau and Jacob.We dive into Genesis 25-28, unpacking the twins' birth, Esau selling his birthright for a bowl of stew, Jacob's sneaky scheme with Rebecca to steal Isaac's blessing, and Jacob's mind-blowing dream of a heavenly ladder with angels ascending and descending. Along the way, Brad and Nathan explore family dysfunction, how God uses flawed people despite their deceit, cosmic geography with spiritual portals, and how it all foreshadows Jesus as the ultimate connection between heaven and earth.Whether you're catching up on the patriarchs or loving these ancient twists, this episode ties history, theology, and drama together. Join us and drop a comment if you've got questions!----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

The first 20 episodes of Covenants & Kingdoms were almost completely about Abraham, over 15 hours of discussion all about one man and his journey. Today, Nathan and Brad are summarizing all their previous conversations to give a simplified version of everything from God calling Abraham, to Abraham fighting clans of giants, to the promise of a son, to Sodom and Gomorrah, and much more. If you missed a few episodes, or are just now finding us, this is a great place to start! Jump in and study Biblical covenants and ancient kingdoms with us!----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Baba Noel is back for another episode to answer the question burning in Brad's mind, is Christmas Pagan?Nathan dips into history not just to see the origins of celebrating Christ's birth, but he delves into every one of our Christmas traditions and their origins. He covers everything from modern ideas from Wes Huff, to Martin Luther and Christmas Trees, to second century discussions about wreaths and laurels. Over on our Patreon Baba Noel continues the discussion to solve Christmas myths, and next will explain Christmas traditions around the world!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

This week we have a very special guest from a... Far off land? "Baba Noel" joins us for a special Christmas episode to answer the age old question: What is Jesus' real birthday?Nathan goes back to early Christian cultures, ancient astronomy, and of course scripture to see if he can find the real answer. Join us to see what the final answer is, or if there is one!----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

In part two of our series on righteousness and justice, Nathan and Brad explore the rich Hebrew vocabulary that paints a vivid picture of God's unchanging character. From steadfast love (chesed) to faithfulness (emet), they unpack why these words cluster around righteousness (tsedeq) and justice (mishpat), revealing how God isn't just righteous, He is our righteousness. With southern humor and scholarly insight, they dive into Psalms, Isaiah's shocking wordplay, and the grace-wrath dynamic. Why do these ancient terms matter for your faith today? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that bridges Old Testament poetry to New Testament hope!----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Brad and Nathan kick things off with a shocking quote from the Melian Dialogue (Thucydides, Peloponnesian War):“The strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must.”That’s the world’s idea of justice.But God gave Abraham a higher standard, before Moses, before Sinai, before any written code.Genesis 26:5 says “Because Abraham obeyed my voice and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws.”How? The law was written on his heart (Rom 2:15) and revealed in creation (Rom 1:20). No one is without excuse.This episode launches a 3-part series on righteousness (tsedeq) and justice (mishpat), the twin pillars of God’s covenant plan.We explore:- Abraham’s faith counted as righteousness (Gen 15:6)- God’s purpose: “that he may command his children… to keep the way of the LORD by doing righteousness and justice” (Gen 18:19)- Ancient parallels: - Phoenician gods Sydyk & Misor - Babylonian Kittu & Misharu (justice of the sun god Shamash) - Egyptian goddess Ma’at (cosmic balance via the heart) - Greek Dikē (order → punishment) vs. biblical covenant faithfulnessThe Bible’s answer? Righteousness is God’s standard. Justice is living it out.And only faith in Christ makes it possible.----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Nathan and Brad unpack the rich narrative of Genesis 24, where Abraham’s trusted servant embarks on a divine mission to find a wife for Isaac. They dive into the quirky oath ritual, the servant’s bold prayer, and God’s providential hand in leading him to Rebekah. Then, in Genesis 26, they explore God’s reaffirmation of the Abrahamic covenant to Isaac, revealing a timeless truth: God’s moral law was written on hearts long before Moses. Why does this ancient story matter today? Tune in for a lively discussion that connects faith, family, and God’s eternal promises.----------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Nathan and Brad dive deeper into Genesis 22, tackling the climactic moment of Abraham’s test to sacrifice Isaac. They explore the raw faith, heart-stopping tension, and divine intervention that define this story. From the Angel of the Lord’s pivotal role to the ram in the thicket, they unpack how this narrative points to Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice. Why did God stop Abraham, and what does it mean for us today? Join us for a lively, thought-provoking discussion that bridges ancient faith to modern hope.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

Join Nathan and Brad for a gripping dive into Genesis 22, the heart-wrenching story of Abraham’s test to sacrifice his son Isaac. With their Southern charm and theological insight, they unpack this challenging narrative, exploring Abraham’s faith, God’s sovereignty, and the profound foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrifice. From the cultural context of ancient pagan practices to the hope of eternal life, this episode connects the dots between Abraham’s obedience and Jesus’ ultimate act of love. Tune in for a lively discussion that wrestles with tough questions and points to the gospel!Intro Readings:Christian perspective excerpt from The Gifts of the Jews by Thomas Cahill.Muslim perspective from the Quran, Surah 37:99–113.Jewish perspective from But Where Is the Lamb? by James Goodman.---------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

In this episode Nathan and Brad dive into Genesis 18, exploring the mysterious visit of three men to Abraham at the oaks of Mamre. They unpack the theological depth of this passage, revealing how one of these visitors is none other than Yahweh Himself, physically manifested, alongside two angels. Drawing parallels to Ovid’s Metamorphoses and its tale of divine visitors, they discuss how Abraham’s radical hospitality (washing feet, preparing a feast, and offering shelter) sets a powerful example for believers today.The episode delves into the promise of Isaac’s birth, Sarah’s laughter, and Abraham’s bold negotiation with God over Sodom’s fate, highlighting themes of faith, righteousness, and justice. Nathan and Brad connect these events to New Testament teachings, like Hebrews 13:2 and Romans 12:13, emphasizing the Christian call to show hospitality to strangers, who might just be angels unaware. From the Trinity’s foreshadowing to practical lessons on generosity, this episode ties ancient encounters to modern faith. Tune in for a lively discussion that brings the Bible to life!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

In part two of our deep dive into circumcision, Nathan and Brad explore the profound connection between the Abrahamic covenant in Genesis 17 and the New Testament sign of baptism. Picking up from the theological foundations laid in part one, they unpack how circumcision, as a sign of God’s covenant with Abraham, points to the ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Drawing from Colossians 2:9-12, they discuss how Christ’s death and resurrection accomplish a spiritual circumcision of the heart, freeing believers from the bondage of sin and making them complete in Him.The episode bridges Old Testament shadows to New Testament realities, examining baptism as a reenactment of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, a public pledge of faith that mirrors the covenant sign of circumcision. With their signature southern humor, Nathan and Brad address interpretive differences, from Baptist believer’s baptism to infant sprinkling, emphasizing unity in the body of Christ despite diverse practices. They challenge listeners to focus on the heart of the matter: the transformative work of Christ that brings life and fullness, not ritual acts. Tune in for a lively discussion that ties ancient covenants to modern faith!---------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based in Birmingham, AL. Visit babajavacoffee.com and use code "covenants" for 10% off your order!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

In this captivating episode, Nathan and Brad dive into the ancient practice of circumcision, starting with insights from Herodotus on Egyptian customs and moving into the theological depths of Genesis 17. They explore the Abrahamic covenant, where God establishes circumcision as a sign of His everlasting promise to Abraham and his descendants. Unpacking the tension between God’s eternal covenant and the consequence of being “cut off” for non-compliance, they connect this ancient rite to spiritual truths about sin, obedience, and salvation.The discussion takes a dramatic turn with the mysterious Exodus 4 narrative, where Zipporah’s quick thinking and priestly act of circumcising her son saves Moses from divine wrath. Nathan and Brad wrestle with the ambiguous pronouns, the cultural significance of “bridegroom of blood,” and the surprising role of Zipporah as a priestly figure, sparking debate about women in ministry. With humor and southern charm, they bridge ancient texts to modern faith, challenging listeners to embrace the deeper truths of God’s covenant.Join us for part one of this thought-provoking journey into circumcision, theology, and the wild grace of God. Stay tuned for part two!---------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based out of Birmingham, AL. Grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content that dives into the wild, weird, and wonderful! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

In this episode Nathan and Brad delve deeper into Plato’s Allegory of the Cave, drawing connections between its stages of awakening and the Christian call to move from darkness to divine light. Tackling listener comments, they explore the biblical reality of spiritual beings, citing Colossians 1, Hebrews 1, and Psalms to highlight Christ’s supreme authority over all things seen and unseen.Responding to comments questioning their approach and credentials, they passionately defend the accessibility of Scripture’s depths for every believer, not just scholars. They challenge listeners to move beyond simplistic faith toward the rich, transformative truths of God’s Word. Why linger in the shadows when Christ’s radiance beckons?Join us for a vibrant conversation blending philosophy, theology, and the liberating power of the gospel. Step into the light and discover the fullness of God’s truth!---------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based out of Birmingham, AL. Grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!Support us on Patreon for early, ad-free episodes and exclusive "Deeper Waters" content that dives into the wild, weird, and wonderful! patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdomshttps://www.covenantsandkingdoms.com/

In this thought-provoking episode, Brad and Nathan dive into Plato’s Allegory of the Cave to explore the journey from shadows to sunlight, drawing powerful parallels to the Christian faith. Responding to a viewer comment urging them to "just preach the blood of Jesus and Christ crucified," they unpack why the gospel is both beautifully simple and profoundly deep. From the crucifixion's foundational truth to the rich "gobbly goop" of spiritual warfare, Old Testament prophecies, and the preeminence of Christ, they challenge listeners to move beyond spiritual milk to solid food. Why settle for shadows when the full light of God's truth awaits? Join us for a discussion that bridges ancient philosophy and biblical wisdom, revealing how the whole story of Scripture transforms our understanding of reality. Will you stay in the cave, or step into the sunlight?

Welcome to Episode 8 of Covenants & Kingdoms! Brad and Nathan are back, diving into the world of ancient covenants with a story that fits our namesake. They start with a tale from Herodotus about a war between the Lydians and Medes, stopped by an eerie eclipse and sealed with a blood oath and a marriage. It’s a window into how ancient people made covenants that changed everything. Then they turn to Genesis 15, where God makes a covenant with Abraham that sets up all the rest of our scriptures. There’s a ritual with split animals, a strange fire, and something moving in the dark, but what does it mean? Brad and Nathan explore how this moment ties to Jesus in ways that will make you rethink everything, from shared cloaks to a meal that feels incredibly familiar. They’re holding back some of the biggest connections, so you’ll want to tune in to catch the full picture.Join them as they unpack a promise that still shapes our faith today. It’s deep, it’s powerful, and it’s all about God’s faithfulness. Plus, they give a shoutout to their Patreon for deeper dives into spiritual beings. Grab a coffee—maybe from Baba Java with the “covenants” code for 10% off—and come see what this ancient covenant reveals!-------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based out of Birmingham, AL. Grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!Support us on Patreon to get early and ad free episodes, and special "Deeper Waters" episodes that are a little too wild, weird, or in the weeds for our regular podcast!patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.comhttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms

In this faith filled episode, Nathan and Brad dive into Genesis 15:1-6 where Abram encounters the divine Word in a vision that shakes the cosmos. They unpack the mind-blowing theology of the logos, the Word that not only speaks, but walks Abram outside to gaze at the stars, promising a legacy vast and glorious. Drawing from the vivid imagery of the Apocalypse of Abraham, they explore how this encounter echoes through scripture, from Samuel’s call to John’s proclamation of Jesus as the eternal logos. The hosts tackle big ideas: justification by faith, the organic relationship God craves with His people, and the cosmic promise that Abram’s offspring will shine like heavenly stars, transformed to reign with Christ. With passion and humor, they connect the dots from ancient covenants to the radiant fulfillment in Jesus, urging listeners to embrace the one story of scripture. Plus, enjoy a sip of Baba Java’s passion fruit-fermented coffee and get 10% off with the coupon code "Covenants"!---------------------------------------------------------------------For the scriptures referenced at the end of the episode, visit covenantsandkingdoms.com/episodes and click on S1 E7.Support us on Patreon to get early and ad free episodes, and special "Deeper Waters" episodes that are a little too wild, weird, or in the weeds for our regular podcast!patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.comhttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms

Welcome to Episode 6 of Covenants & Kingdoms! In part two of their exploration of Melchizedek, Nathan and Brad continue unraveling the mystery of this enigmatic figure mentioned only a few times in scripture, yet described as greater than Abraham and a forerunner to Jesus. Building on Episode 5, they dive deeper into Genesis 14, Psalm 110, Hebrews 6-7, and the Dead Sea Scrolls, exploring Melchizedek’s roles as priest and king. Nathan examines ancient texts, including Philo of Alexandria and early church fathers, to uncover what scholars believed about Melchizedek’s identity: mortal man or divine manifestation? They also discuss Jesus’ own interpretation of Psalm 110 in Matthew 22, revealing connections to the Messiah. Join us as we dig into the Hebrew, ancient debates, and the profound link between Melchizedek and Jesus!Who is Melchizedek? Join in our episode and let's see if we can figure it out!---------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based out of Birmingham, AL. Grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!Support us on Patreon to get early and ad free episodes, and special "Deeper Waters" episodes that are a little too wild, weird, or in the weeds for our regular podcast!patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.comhttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms

Welcome to episode 5 of Covenants & Kingdoms! Today Nathan and Brad dive into a mysterious figure who is only mentioned three times in all of scripture, mostly with no context for us to know anything about him, yet Hebrews describes him as greater than Abraham, and a predecessor to Jesus! To figure him out and provide context for the scripture, Nathan digs into the Hebrew meanings in his name, what the ancient scholars believed about him, and more!Who is Melchizedek? Join in our episode and let's see if we can figure it out!---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based out of Birmingham, AL. Grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!Support us on Patreon to get early and ad free episodes, and special "Deeper Waters" episodes that are a little too wild, weird, or in the weeds for our regular podcast!patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.comhttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms

Join us in the thrilling world of ancient giants and epic battles in Episode 4 of Covenants & Kingdoms! Hosts Brad and Nathan explore the mysterious Book of the Giants from the Dead Sea Scrolls, unpacking the story of the Nephilim and their descendants—towering figures like the Rephaim, Anakim, and Amorites. From Genesis 14’s account of Abram’s daring victory against a formidable alliance of kings to the spiritual significance of Bashan and Mount Hermon as the "gates of hell," this episode connects ancient texts to profound theological truths. Discover how God’s people reclaimed the land from these giant clans, fulfilling divine promises through faith and courage. Plus, learn about the historical and archaeological evidence supporting these biblical narratives, including ancient tablets mentioning the very kings from Genesis 14!We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based out of Birmingham, AL. Grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.compatreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms

In Episode 3 of Covenants & Kingdoms, Dr. Nathan Parvin and Brad Haynes delve into the Abrahamic covenant, starting with a dramatic reading from the Apocalypse of Abraham. Through ancient narratives and pivotal biblical moments, they explore how a single divine call reshapes history and points to a greater fulfillment. They also discuss things you've never noticed about God's name and presence, and something Jesus declares for the first time at a historic location. Expect rich discussions, surprising connections, and a fresh perspective on faith that will leave you inspired. Subscribe and dive in to uncover the story!We are sponsored by Baba Java Coffee, a specialty coffee roaster and cafe based out of Birmingham, AL. Grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.compatreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms https://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms

Today’s episode begins with an excerpt from God’s Rivals by Gerald McDermott, introducing Mary, Shang, and Sarah—three people wrestling with questions about other gods and religions in light of their Christian faith. Join hosts Brad Haynes and Nathan as they dive into the biblical reality of spiritual beings, exploring passages like 1 Kings 22, Daniel 10, and Psalm 82. What are these "Elohim," and where do they fit in God’s plan? From the divine council to the Tower of Babel’s fallout, discover how scripture reveals a cosmic battle—culminating in Jesus, the preeminent Creator who redeems all nations. Tune in for a deep, historical look at faith, deception, and ultimate hope.Subscribe for more, and grab your Baba Java Coffee at babajavacoffee.com with code "covenants" for 10% off!https://www.covenantsandkingdoms.comhttps://www.patreon.com/covenantsandkingdomshttps://linktr.ee/covenantsandkingdoms

Join Nathan Parvin and Brad Haynes, hosts of Covenants & Kingdoms, as they unravel the fascinating world of biblical history through the lens of ancient Near Eastern culture and mythology. In their debut episode, they dive into the Mesopotamian creation epic, the Enuma Elish, to shed light on Genesis 11 and the Tower of Babel, revealing how ancient cosmology, spiritual beliefs, and historical events deepen our understanding of Scripture.Drawing from their unique experiences living in Muslim countries and exploring texts like Isaiah 14 and Deuteronomy 32, Nathan and Brad challenge Western materialism, offering fresh perspectives on the Bible’s timeless stories. Expect a captivating blend of scholarly insight and personal anecdotes that bridges the ancient and the modern, the material and the spiritual.Subscribe now for a journey through the covenants, kingdoms, and enduring truths of Scripture—new episodes await!-----------------------------------------Use the discount code "COVENANTS" for 10% off your coffee order at babajavacoffee.com!Join our Patreon and help support Biblical teaching in historical context! https://www.patreon.com/covenantsandkingdoms CoffeeU Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2zT8dCpNL3CqVnTtDGryVw?si=m0V3lpdkR_uiiLTAyIQYNwLink to cosmology image:https://www.deviantart.com/jaysimons/art/Ancient-Sumerian-Cosmology-878264085-----------------------------------------CovenantsandKingdoms.com