Solid Food

In this episode of Solid Food, we explore a truth that challenges a common assumption: not all sin leads to separation from God. Drawing from First Epistle of John 5:16–17, we examine what Scripture means by “sin not leading to death” and how it functions within the life of a believer. By looking at the fall in Eden, the life of David, and the restoring work of Christ, we see that sin can wound fellowship without ultimately ending relationship. This is not a license to sin, but a call to understand both the seriousness of sin and the depth of God’s grace. We also consider our responsibility to pray for and restore one another with gentleness and humility. Join us as we begin this two-part study on sin, restoration, and the nature of true separation.Works CitedDaniel L. Akin, 1, 2, 3 John, vol. 38, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2001), 208.Daniel L. Akin, Exalting Jesus in 1,2,3 John (Nashville, TN: Holman Reference, 2014), 143.

In one of the most well-known yet often misunderstood passages in Scripture, Jesus tells Nicodemus that no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are “born again.” But what does that actually mean? In this episode, we take a deep dive into John 3:1–11, exploring the meaning of being “born from above,” the role of water and the Spirit, and why Nicodemus—an expert in the law—struggled to understand it. We examine four major interpretations of “born of water” and evaluate them through careful study of the text and its Old Testament background. Ultimately, this passage is not about what we do, but about what God does—revealing that salvation comes from Him alone. If you’ve ever wrestled with this passage, this study will bring clarity, depth, and renewed appreciation for God’s grace. Works CitedJoseph Henry Thayer, A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Being Grimm’s Wilke's Clavis Novi Testamenti (New York: Harper & Brothers., 1889), 649.Gerald L. Borchert, John 1–11, vol. 25A, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1996), 169.Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament (Chattanooga, TN: AMG Publishers, 2000).James Strong, A Concise Dictionary of the Words in the Greek Testament and The Hebrew Bible (Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2009), 13.Colin G. Kruse, John: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 4, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2003), 109.

In this episode of Solid Food, Dr. Lee Lewis examines the sobering account of Nadab and Abihu in Leviticus 10 and the offering of “strange fire.” What made their worship unacceptable—and why was God’s response so severe? By exploring the broader context of Leviticus and the holiness of God, this study reveals that worship is not self-defined but regulated by divine instruction. What happens when those closest to God treat Him as common? Join us as we wrestle with the weight of God’s holiness and what it means to truly honor Him.Works CitedMark F. Rooker, Leviticus, vol. 3A, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 158.R. K. Harrison, Leviticus: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 3, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1980), 115.Allan Moseley, Exalting Jesus in Leviticus, ed. David Platt, Daniel L. Akin, and Tony Merida (Nashville, TN: Holman Reference, 2015), 110.

In this episode of Solid Food, Dr. Lee Lewis explores one of Scripture’s most fascinating and misunderstood figures — the serpent of Genesis 3. Is the serpent merely a snake, or something far more complex? By tracing the biblicalstoryline from Eden to Ezekiel, Isaiah, and ultimately Revelation, this study examines how progressive revelation clarifies the identity of the great adversary. What does the Bible actually say about Satan — and what assumptionshave we imported into the text? Join us as we pursue accuracy over tradition and seek to understand “The Serpent, The Devil, and Satan.” Works CitedA. E. Day and G. D. Jordan, “Serpent,” in The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, Revised, ed. Geoffrey W. Bromiley (Wm. B. Eerdmans, 1979–1988), 417.Elaine A. Phillips, “Serpent,” in The Lexham Bible Dictionary, ed. John D. Barry et al. (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2016).Matthews Louis Sweet, “Satan,” in The International Standard Bible Encyclopaedia, ed. James Orr et al. (Chicago: The Howard-Severance Company, 1915), 2694.Duane F. Watson, “Devil,” in The Anchor Yale Bible Dictionary, ed. David Noel Freedman (New York: Doubleday, 1992), 183.

Why did Jesus ask “Who do you say that I am?”At a pagan worship center.At the foot of Mount Hermon.At a place associated with the underworld.In this special episode of Solid Food, Dr. Lee Lewis is joined by his covenant brother, Dr. Thomas Jackson, to explore Matthew 16:13–20 through the lens of geography, culture, language, and Second Temple worldview. Our study is amplified by relating our experience in traveling to Ceasarea Phillipi and standing upon that very rock.What if “the gates of hell” was never about defense…but about offense?This conversation will stretch your understanding of Scripture, deepen your biblical literacy, and remind you that the church was never meant to retreat.🎧 Listen now and bring your Bible.

Baptism is one of the most debated and misunderstood practices in Christianity, and yet Scripture speaks about it with remarkable clarity. In this episode of Solid Food, Dr. Lee Lewis explores what baptism is, what it accomplishes, and why it matters—drawing primarily from Romans 6 and the broader testimony of Scripture. Together, we examine baptism’s roots in Second Temple Judaism, its role in Christian initiation, and its connection to grace, faith, repentance, and new life in Christ. This is not a polemic, but a careful biblical study designed to inform conscience and strengthen conviction. Wherever you land, you are encouraged to let Scripture—not tradition orassumption—shape your understanding.Works CitedBenjamin Espinoza, “Baptism,” in The Lexham Bible Dictionary, ed. John D. Barry et al. (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2016).William Hendriksen and Simon J. Kistemaker, Exposition of Paul’s Epistle to the Romans, vol. 12–13, New Testament Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1953–2001), 195–196.Craig S. Keener, Matthew, vol. 1, The IVP New Testament Commentary Series (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1997), Mt 28:16–20.

What would happen if God showed you heaven — and then allowed you to suffer?In this episode of Solid Food, we dive deep into Paul’s mysterious ascent into Paradise and the thorn that followed. We explore why Paul’s heavenly encounter was not a reward, but a preparation — and how God used weakness to protect him from pride. By tracing Paradise back to Eden, and Paul’s suffering alongside Job’s, we uncover a profound truth: God reveals glory not to exalt us, but to keep us dependent on His grace.If you’ve ever wondered why God allows pain in the lives of His most faithful servants, this episode will reframe everything. Works CitedDavid E. Garland, 2 Corinthians,vol. 29, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1999), 508.Colin G. Kruse, 2 Corinthians: AnIntroduction and Commentary, ed. Eckhard J. Schnabel, Secondedition, vol. 8, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Nottingham, England: Inter-Varsity Press, 2015), 262.Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete WordStudy Dictionary: New Testament (Chattanooga, TN: AMGPublishers, 2000).Linda L. Belleville, 2 Corinthians,vol. 8, The IVP New Testament Commentary Series (Westmont, IL: IVP Academic, 1996), 2 Co 12:7–10.

In this episode, we trace God’s promise to Abraham—“In you all the families of the earth will be blessed”—and watch it come to life in Acts 10. Through a trance, a vision, and an unexpected Gentile seeker, God shows Peter that the barriersseparating Jew and Gentile are coming down. The sheet, the Spirit, and the arrival of Cornelius’ men reveal that God’s plan has always included all of us.In this moment, the door of the kingdom opens wide, fulfilling a promise made two thousand years earlier. Join us as we explore how God orchestrated people, timing, and revelation to welcome the world into the family of Christ.Works CitedM. G. Easton, Illustrated BibleDictionary and Treasury of Biblical History, Biography, Geography, Doctrine,and Literature (New York: Harper & Brothers, 1893), 674. John D. Barry, “Vision,” in TheLexham Bible Dictionary, ed. John D. Barry et al. (Bellingham, WA: LexhamPress, 2016). 

"Let's get right down to it. Should Christians celebrate Christmas? Everyone knows that it's all rooted in paganism, and besides that, we all know that Jesus wasn't born on the 25th of December. Shouldn't we just avoid the whole thing altogether?"Sure, those are things that people say, but are they true and accurate? Let's dig into the scriptures as well as some "historical resources to determine the truth for ourselves. Works CitedDavid Prior, The Message of 1Corinthians: Life in the Local Church, The Bible Speaks Today(Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985), 140.Ancient Sources on December 25th and Pagan FestivalsChronograph of 354 (Philocalian Calendar) – A.D. 354                                         Earliestrecord of December 25 as Christ’s birthday and of the pagan Natalis SolisInvicti (“Birth of the Unconquered Sun”).Hippolytus of Rome, Commentary on Daniel – ca. 200–230                              IdentifiesDecember 25 as Christ’s birth and calculates March 25 as date of the Passion.Tertullian, Against the Jews (Adversus Iudaeos) 8 – ca. 197–200 Links the Passion to March 25, forming part of the early Christian dating tradition.Augustine, De Trinitate 4.5 – ca. 399–419                                                          Affirms that early Christians held conception and death of Christ occurred on March 25.John Chrysostom, Homily on the Nativity – ca. 386- 390 Defends December 25 as the true date of Christ’s birth and notes its recent adoption in the East.Historia Augusta, “Aurelian” 25.3 – Late 4th century                            Describes Aurelian’s promotion of the Sol Invictus cult in A.D.274.Macrobius, Saturnalia – early 5th century                                                         Defines Saturnalia as December 17–23, confirming it did not include December 25.

Have you ever wondered what it meant for God to harden Pharaoh's heart? Does it raise questions in your mind about whether we actually have free will or not? It wasn't until I went to Egypt that I developed a fuller understanding of not only the concept, but implications for Bible study in general. Briefly put, travel to ancient biblical lands can add depth to your study available in no other way. Let's talk about it.

In "About the Rapture Pt. 1" we studied the timing of the rapture in response to a recent well-known failed prediction. In Pt. 2, we will seek to answer the question, "What is the rapture and what is its purpose?" To be forewarned is to be forearmed, and to be informed is to be prepared. Let's talk about the rapture. Works CitedSpiros Zodhiates, The Complete WordStudy Dictionary: New Testament (Chattanooga, TN: AMGPublishers, 2000).D. Michael Martin, 1, 2 Thessalonians,vol. 33, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1995), 145.Brandon Smith, “The Rapture,” in Lexham Survey of Theology, ed. Mark Ward et al. (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2018).

Do you know what has been in the news a lot lately?The rapture. It’s because a preacher recently claimed to have been told by God that the rapture would happen on September 23-24, 2025. When that did not happen, it was revised to October 7-9, 2025. What did you think of that? This is not the first time such a thing has happened. What is the rapture anyway, and when will it happen? There is a biblical answer for one of those questions. Let's study together. Works Citedhttps://www.newsweek.com/10-rapture-predictions-that-never-came-to-pass-10476612 D. Michael Martin, 1, 2 Thessalonians,vol. 33, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & HolmanPublishers, 1995), 236. Brandon Smith, “The Rapture,” in Lexham Survey of Theology, ed. Mark Ward et al. (Bellingham, WA:Lexham Press, 2018).

Perhaps you've heard about a sin (or sins) that are said to be unpardonable. They range from suicide to adultery to homosexuality and more. But did you know the Bible only specifically and expressly identifies one sin as such? Let's study together in order to know what it is and avoid eternal jeopardy. Works CitedCraig Blomberg, Matthew,vol. 22, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & HolmanPublishers, 1992), 204. Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete WordStudy Dictionary: New Testament (Chattanooga, TN: AMGPublishers, 2000). R. T. France, Matthew: AnIntroduction and Commentary, vol. 1, Tyndale New TestamentCommentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985), 96. Jay E. Adams, Fifty DifficultPassages Explained (Cordova, TN: Institute for NoutheticStudies, 2020), 38.WeHi

One of the best tools for Bible study is your own mind. What is meant by that is that we have an innate desire to seek information and are naturally curious. We are at our best when we apply those natural tendencies to our time with Scripture. For example, in Mark 8:22-24, Jesus heals a blind man, but it took multiple efforts. We should naturally wonder why and then seek the answer. Let's do just that together.

We all know John the Baptist as the forerunner of Christ. He was well known for his spartan appearance, his fervor for his mission, and his fearless righteousness. He famously baptized Jesus, but would later ask if he was actually the Messiah. What would cause him to ask such a question? Further, what was Jesus' answer, and why did he choose to answer him the way that he did? Let's study.

Family, today’s inspiration comes from something that I hear referenced often during conversations about the Bible or in Bible studies that involve things like the sinner’s prayer, whereChristians go when they die, and the necessity of baptism (or lack thereof). Of course, there are widely varying opinions about each of those topics, but they all seem to work their way around to referencing the “thief on the cross.” Many point to “the” thief on the cross as having been saved, without the ritual of baptism, and to having gone straight to heaven with Jesus upon their deaths. Have you ever heard anyof these positions? Do you advocate for any of them? Because I’ve heard these and other claims about the narrative, I thought it would make an excellent subject of study. Join me. Works Cited Ceslas Spicq and James D. Ernest, Theological Lexiconof the New Testament (Peabody, MA: Hendrickson Publishers,1994), 241.Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete WordStudy Dictionary: New Testament (Chattanooga, TN: AMGPublishers, 2000).Allison A. Trites, William J. Larkin, CornerstoneBiblical Commentary, Vol 12: The Gospel of Luke and Acts (CarolStream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2006), 303.Trent C. Butler, Luke, vol. 3, Holman New Testament Commentary (Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 2000), 395.Benjamin M. Austin, “Afterlife,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al., LexhamBible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).Robert H. Stein, Luke,vol. 24, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1992), 593.

What did the apostle Paul mean when he expressed the preference to be absent from the body and present with the Lord? As it turns out, there is quite a bit involved with the multiple concepts he is conveying. Let's study it together. Works CitedCraig A. Smith, “Complaining,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al., LexhamBible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).FrancescoBianchi, “Desire,” in LexhamTheological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al., Lexham BibleReference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).Spiros Zodhiates, The Complete WordStudy Dictionary: New Testament (Chattanooga, TN: AMGPublishers, 2000).David E. Garland, 2 Corinthians,vol. 29, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & HolmanPublishers, 1999), 261.

Not long ago, I asked a great friend if he believed in ghosts. At the time, I did not. His response was, "Well, there's one in the Bible." Naturally, that is all that was needed to launch into a study. What was found was a need to also examine the consequences of disobedience to God. It is fascinating how the two considerations collided in Scripture. Works Cited  Robert D. Bergen, 1, 2 Samuel,vol. 7, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & HolmanPublishers, 1996), 268.James Swanson, Dictionary ofBiblical Languages with Semantic Domains : Hebrew (Old Testament)(Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1997).

It seems that the world is full of turmoil. The news constantly broadcasts wrongs done to some by others. Social media seems to traffic in little else. Even face-to-face interactions can erupt into conflicts and violence. Why is there such inhumanity between humans? Let's study a biblical narrative to provide at least one answer as well as a solution. Works Cited Henry George Liddell et al., A Greek-English Lexicon (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1996), Aaron C. Fenlason, “Beauty,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al., Lexham Bible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014). K. A. Mathews, Genesis 1-11:26, vol. 1A, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1996)John R. W. Stott, The Letters of John: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 19, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1988) 

There are many paths to faith. It is virtually an inexhaustible topic. In this episode, we will accompany a young lady who has lost all resources, all ability, and all hope until she finds faith. Let us do as she did and reach out.[1]Eric Lewellen, “Miracles,” in Lexham Theological Wordbook, ed. Douglas Mangum et al., LexhamBible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).[2]Leon Morris, Luke: AnIntroduction and Commentary, vol. 3, Tyndale New TestamentCommentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1988), 179.

We all have a pretty good idea of the general meaning of "forgive," but what does the Bible have to say about it? What is its biblical definition? What are its implications? What responsibility do we have to extend forgiveness? Is God's forgiveness of us conditional? Let's study! Sources J. David Stark, “Forgiveness,” ed. Douglas Mangum et al., Lexham Theological Wordbook, Lexham Bible Reference Series (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2014).   Jeffrey E. Miller, “Concordance,” ed. John D. Barry et al., The Lexham Bible Dictionary (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2016).   Horst Robert Balz and Gerhard Schneider, Exegetical Dictionary of the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 1990–), 181.   R. T. France, Matthew: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 1, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1985), 280.    

Let us consider the word of God. It is described in Hebrews 4:12 as "quick, powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword." What does that mean and what does it mean for our lives? Let's study.

If you read the King James version of the Bible, you will notice that in James 1, the word "temptation" is used liberally, but does each use have the same meaning? If there are differences, what are they and why are they there? Let's study together!

John 6:48-58 contains some of the most surprising, shocking, and, to some, offensive words Jesus ever spoke. As a result, many of those who were following him at the time left him. Early Christians were considered by some to be cannibals because of them. The Eucharist (Lord's Supper) is believed by some to transmute to the actual flesh and blood of Christ as a result of them. What's it all about? Let's study and find out. Works CitedEugeneCarpenter, Exodus, vol. 1, Evangelical Exegetical Commentary (Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2016), 282. John D. Hannah, “Exodus,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 114. James Swanson, Dictionary ofBiblical Languages with Semantic Domains : Hebrew (Old Testament)(Oak Harbor: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 1997).

From the perspective of our 21st-century worldview, Satan and demonic forces are more concepts than reality, but it was not so in Jesus' time. Should it be in ours? Paul has a stark warning for believers regardless of era.

It has been said that "A text without context is a pretext for a proof text." Let's discuss why context matters and how it leads to more accurate scriptural interpretation.

There are many qualities of God assigned to Jesus found in Scripture. Does this mean that Jesus is God? Let's discuss.

James famously wrote that "faith without works is dead." What does that mean? Let's apply robust tools and methods to our study and find out!

What is the purpose of prayer? Is it to glorify and align with God or to receive granted wishes? Let us see what the Scripture has to say.

Paul wrote to the church in Rome that they should accept those who are "weaker in faith" without judging them for the differences of disputable opinions. What does that mean and why did he find it necessary to write about it? Let us use Bible tools and exegetical methods to arrive at an interpretation and application of the passage.