Episode 2.54
Adoption isn’t a side note to salvation—it’s the summit of it.
In this opening week, Zach and Michael explore what Scripture means when it calls believers “sons of God.” Drawing from Ephesians 1, Romans 8, and Galatians 4, they unpack how adoption is both legal—a new standing before God—and transformational—a new likeness to Christ.
The discussion follows the ordo salutis to show why J. I. Packer called adoption “the highest privilege of the gospel.” A look at first-century Roman adoption sheds light on Paul’s language: adopted children received full rights, name, and inheritance, not as second-class heirs but as true sons.
Takeaway:
Adoption reveals the Father’s heart. Through Christ, we’re not just forgiven servants—we’re beloved sons invited to live like heirs of the King.
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Episode 2.53
Paul’s life was a contradiction — beaten yet joyful, weak yet unstoppable.
By the mid-50s A.D., he had endured rejection, imprisonment, and exhaustion. Yet his writings from this period reveal a man who found grace not by escaping pain, but by enduring it.
In this episode, Zach and Michael walk through Paul’s “theology of scars,” exploring how his sufferings shaped both his ministry and message. From the “spectacle” language of 1 Corinthians to the “thorn in the flesh” of 2 Corinthians and the anguish of Romans, Paul’s life becomes a living sermon: God’s strength is made perfect in weakness.
Covered in this episode:
– Why Paul’s ministry looked like failure to the world but victory to heaven
– The paradoxes of apostleship: sorrowful yet rejoicing, weak yet strong
– The “Fool’s Speech” and the radical humility behind Paul’s boasting
– Romans 7–9: Paul’s inner conflict and his deep compassion for Israel
– How hardship, not applause, authenticates the gospel worker
Takeaway:
The Christian life isn’t about avoiding pain—it’s about discovering power through it. Paul’s story reminds us that endurance, not ease, is the true proof of grace.
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Episode 2.52
Two short books. One urgent message.
Jude and 2 Peter sound like echoes of each other—warning about false teachers, moral corruption, and a church tempted to drift. But behind their similarities lies a sharp, Spirit-led call to courage and purity.
In this episode, Zach and Michael unpack how these “forgotten books at the back of the Bible” fit into the bigger New Testament story. They explore their shared language, debated relationship, and the timeless message that faith must be defended, not diluted.
Covered in this episode:
– How Jude and 2 Peter mirror each other almost word-for-word
– Whether Peter borrowed from Jude—or Jude from Peter
– What their warnings reveal about early heresies and modern ones
– 2 Peter’s threefold defense: God’s Word, judgment, and return
– Why Jude quotes 1 Enoch—and how it doesn’t undermine Scripture
– The call to “contend for the faith once delivered” in an age of moral confusion
Takeaway:
Grace doesn’t excuse sin, and delay doesn’t mean denial. God’s patience is mercy—but judgment and redemption are still on the clock.
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Episode 2.51
Before the shipwrecks and prison letters, Paul was a man under suspicion.
Not one of the Twelve. A former persecutor now claiming divine authority.
In his earliest writings—Galatians and 1 Thessalonians—Paul defends his calling, clarifies his gospel, and opens his heart as a pastor.
In this episode, Zach and Michael trace Paul’s transformation from zealot to apostle, exploring how God turned an enemy of the church into its most tireless servant.
Covered in this episode:
– Galatians 1: Paul’s authority “not from man, but from Christ”
– Galatians 2: Standing alone for gospel truth—even against Peter
– Galatians 4 & 6: The emotional cost of authentic ministry
– 1 Thessalonians 2–3: A pastor’s integrity and affection under fire
– How authority, courage, compassion, and credibility shaped Paul’s early ministry
Takeaway:
The early Paul isn’t polished—he’s passionate, bruised, and believable. His defense of apostleship shows what real ministry looks like when truth and tenderness meet.
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Episode 2.50
Who Said It? The Quotation Debate in James 2:18–19
What if a single pair of quotation marks changed how you understand faith and works?
In this episode of Take 2 Theology, Zach and Michael unpack one of the most overlooked translation debates in the New Testament—who’s actually speaking in James 2:18–19?
Since the original Greek had no quotation marks, translators must decide how long the “someone will say” quotation runs. Does it end quickly (like in the ESV)? Continue through verse 19 (NASB)? Or include both verses (NIV, NRSV)? Each choice changes how we hear James’s tone—rebuke, debate, or diatribe.
Covered in this episode:
– How Greek manuscripts handled quotations and voices
– The short, medium, and long quotation theories
– Why modern Bibles make different punctuation choices
– What leading commentators (Moo, Davids, Blomberg) argue
– How punctuation affects tone but not theology
In the end, James’s message stands: “Faith without works is dead.”
But understanding how he said it might change how we hear him.
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Episode 2.49
Joy in chains. Unity through humility. Strength through surrender.
In this second part of Chains and the Gospel, Zach and Michael dive deep into the book of Philippians—Paul’s most personal and joy-filled letter, written from a Roman prison cell.
Far from despairing, Paul writes about partnership in the gospel, the mind of Christ, and the kind of joy that survives suffering. This letter reveals not a broken prisoner, but a triumphant disciple whose faith flourishes under pressure.
Covered in this episode:
– Why Paul’s imprisonment advanced the gospel (Phil. 1:12–18)
– The Christ Hymn (Phil. 2:5–11): humility, incarnation, and cosmic lordship
– How Paul redefines success: “to live is Christ, to die is gain”
– Warnings against pride, division, and false confidence
– Contentment and peace that surpass understanding (Phil. 4:4–13)
– The power of partnership and generosity in gospel work
Paul’s message rings clear: Joy isn’t found in freedom, comfort, or control—it’s found in Christ alone.
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Episode 2.48
Is the very idea of God enough to prove that God exists?
In this episode, Zach and Michael unpack one of the most famous—and most misunderstood—arguments in philosophy: the Ontological Argument. From Anselm’s “that than which nothing greater can be conceived,” to Descartes, Leibniz, Kant, and Alvin Plantinga’s modern modal version, they trace how the debate evolved over nearly a thousand years.
Covered in this episode:
– Why some concepts logically entail others (valley–mountain, shadow–light)
– Anselm’s original argument and the “greatest conceivable being”
– Kant’s critique that “existence is not a predicate”
– Plantinga’s modal argument: if God is possible, God is actual
– Atheist counterarguments and why they must deny God’s possibility itself
– Modern developments from Pruss & Rasmussen
The Ontological Argument remains as bold as ever—an exercise in pure reason that asks whether logic itself points to God.
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Episode 2.47
What would you write if you were chained to a Roman guard for your faith? Complaints? Regrets?
Paul wrote joy.
In this episode, Zach and Michael explore the first half of Paul’s Prison Epistles—Ephesians and Colossians—letters written not from comfort but from captivity. These epistles remind us that Christ’s lordship isn’t limited by our circumstances, and that the gospel still advances even when the messenger is confined.
Covered in this episode:
– How Paul’s imprisonment shaped his theology and tone
– The supremacy of Christ in Colossians 1 and the unity of the church in Ephesians
– Household codes and how the gospel reshapes family and work
– The connection between Paul’s chains and the church’s mission
– Why the church remains God’s “Plan A” for displaying His glory
Next time, the journey continues with Philippians—Paul’s letter of joy in suffering and the great Christ Hymn that reshapes how we think about humility, glory, and worship.
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Episode 2.46
In this special Q&A episode, Zach and Michael tackle three practical and often misunderstood questions from Take 2 listeners:
Is going to church a must-do?
Does the Bible command it, or is it just tradition? What if someone watches sermons online?
Isn’t prayer just like meditation or boxing—something therapeutic and repetitive?
What makes prayer different from other mental or emotional disciplines?
If God is a jealous God, does spending more time on work or hobbies mean I’m worshipping them?
How do we know when something becomes an idol?
Clear, biblical answers grounded in Scripture—plus some practical advice for living a God-centered life in a distracted world. Whether you're questioning tradition, seeking clarity, or wrestling with everyday faith, this episode is for you.
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Episode 2.45
A runaway slave. A personal letter. A gospel plea.
This episode dives deep into Paul's shortest—and most personal—epistle, written not to a church, but to a single man: Philemon.
Through a story of slavery, repentance, and mediation, we explore the power of reconciliation in Christ. Who was Onesimus, and why did he flee? Why did Paul step in? And what does this teach us about Christian intercession, accountability, and mercy?
Covered in this episode:
– Background on Philemon, Onesimus, and slavery in the Roman world
– Paul's prison setting and role as advocate
– Wordplay, theology, and irony in “useful” and “useless”
– A gospel-shaped appeal that mirrors Christ's own intercession
– Practical lessons for handling conflict, forgiveness, and restoration today
Whether read as ancient correspondence or gospel drama, Philemon calls Christians to radical grace—and reminds us that love often comes at a cost.
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Episode 2.44
Only 11 verses in Revelation mention them—but the Two Witnesses have sparked centuries of debate. In this episode, we dive into Revelation 11 and explore who these mysterious prophets are, why they breathe fire, and what their dramatic ministry means for the end times. Are they Elijah and Moses returned? Or do they represent something symbolic like the Law and the Prophets—or even the Church itself? From their plagues and prophecies to their shocking death, resurrection, and global broadcasted ascension, the story of the Two Witnesses is one of judgment and mercy, grief and glory. Whether literal figures or prophetic symbols, they embody God's unflinching call to repentance in the darkest hour of human history.
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Episode 2.43
Building a Faithful Church
What if Paul wrote you a personal letter for how to live, lead, and finish well?
In this episode, Zach and Michael unpack the Pastoral Epistles — 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus — as Paul’s final, Spirit-inspired words to guide the church. Written to two young pastors in tough environments, these letters lay out what it means to guard sound doctrine, appoint godly leaders, and endure in gospel ministry.
Covered in this episode:
– Background on Timothy, Titus, and their cities
– Major themes: sound doctrine, leadership, and endurance
– Snapshots of each letter’s structure and purpose
– The “Faithful Sayings” and the Christological hymn
– Relevance for today: why leadership and doctrine still matter
Whether leading a church or living as a faithful Christian, the Pastoral Epistles are a roadmap for staying grounded in truth and finishing the race well.
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Episode 2.42
Philosophical Case for the Supernatural
Can miracles be intellectually defended—or are they just wishful thinking in a scientific age?
In this follow-up to the theological case for miracles, Zach and Michael explore the philosophical foundations for believing in the miraculous. Drawing from the work of C.S. Lewis, Alvin Plantinga, Richard Swinburne, William Lane Craig, and others, they address classical objections from Spinoza and Hume, explain Bayesian probability, and unpack why Christianity stands or falls on historical miracle claims—especially the resurrection.
Covered in this episode:
– What qualifies as a miracle (and what doesn’t)
– Why miracles are necessary for Christian faith
– Whether natural laws rule out divine intervention
– The failure of Hume’s argument against miracles
– How probability theory supports miracle testimony
– Why Christianity’s claims are evidential, not blind
If theism is true, miracles aren’t just possible—they’re expected. This episode shows why the miraculous still makes philosophical sense.
WLC discussing Bayesian Equation: https://www.reasonablefaith.org/question-answer/P90/do-extraordinary-events-require-extraordinary-evidence
The Book Michael Referenced: Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts, https://a.co/d/hjzHvWL
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Episode 2.41
Who was the man behind half the New Testament? In this episode of Take 2 Theology, Zach and Michael trace the incredible story of Saul of Tarsus—devout Pharisee, relentless persecutor of Christians—who became Paul the Apostle, tireless church planter and theologian of grace.
Covered in this episode:
– Paul’s Jewish and Roman background
– What it meant to be a Pharisee
– His Damascus Road conversion
– The meaning behind “Saul to Paul”
– Overview of his 13 letters and major themes
– The thorn in the flesh and possible singleness
– His missionary journeys and eventual martyrdom
– Why Paul still matters for the church today
Paul’s life proves that no one is too far gone, and no training—no matter how misguided—goes to waste in the hands of a redeeming God.
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Episode 2.40
Lament, Justice, and Courage in a Free Society
When tragedy strikes, how should Christians respond? In the wake of the murder of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University, this episode of Take 2 Theology explores how believers can grieve with hope, pray imprecatory prayers without vengeance, support justice through lawful means, and boldly engage in the battle of ideas—not fists.
Covered in this episode:
– Biblical lament: honest grief in the presence of God
– Imprecatory psalms: calling for justice without becoming vindictive
– The line between vengeance and rightful prosecution
– Defending life, not initiating violence
– Going on offense with truth, reason, and grace
– Safeguarding free speech in a polarized society
– Practical discipleship habits in an age of outrage
Evil is real. But so is the God who sees, judges, and saves. This is a call to act—not with rage or retreat, but with righteous resolve.
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Episode 2.39
From Adam naming the animals to Christ bearing the name above every name, Scripture treats names with reverence, authority, and purpose. In this episode of Take 2 Theology, Zach and Michael trace the biblical theme of naming—from dominion in Eden to identity in Revelation.
Covered in this episode:
– Adam’s authority in naming creation
– God naming children and defining destinies
– The divine self-naming at the burning bush
– Hagar and the testimony of El Roi
– Demons trying to control Jesus by name
– Jesus naming and renaming His followers
– The mysterious name in Revelation
– Our adoption and being named as children of God
A name in Scripture is never just a label. It’s identity. It’s mission. It’s ownership. And in Christ, it's destiny.
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Episode 2.38 (re-upload with correct audio file!)
What counts as a real miracle—and why does it matter?
In this episode of Take 2 Theology, Zach and Michael define what a biblical miracle is (and isn’t), explore how miracles appear across Scripture, and reflect on their purpose in God’s redemptive plan. Drawing from theologians like Wayne Grudem and John Frame, the episode highlights how miracles aren’t just flashy interruptions but covenant-signs of God’s power and faithfulness.
Covered in this episode:
– Defining miracles: Grudem vs. Frame
– Why miracles are rare—and why that’s the point
– Old and New Testament miracle clusters
– Why some eras (like Judges or today) see fewer miracles
– The difference between miracles and providence
– Whether miracles still happen today
– Why the greatest miracle may be the new birth
Not all wonders are miracles—but every true miracle points to the God who rules nature, time, and salvation itself.
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Episode 2.37
If all humanity came from Noah’s family, where did the nations come from—and how does that story impact the Gospel? In this episode of Take 2 Theology, Zach and Michael trace the sons of Noah through Genesis 10 and 11 and connect them to biblical nations, Israel’s history, and the events of Pentecost.
Covered in this episode:
– What Genesis 10 and 11 reveal about the world after the flood
– How the descendants of Ham, Shem, and Japheth shape biblical history
– Clarifying the “curse of Ham” and its misuse
– How the divided nations of Babel are reunited at Pentecost
– Why it matters for understanding the global scope of the Gospel
With key texts from Genesis, Acts, Galatians, and Revelation, this episode weaves theology, history, and hope into one sweeping narrative.
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Episode 2.36
Texts, Myths, and Manuscripts
Is the New Testament historically trustworthy—or just a rewritten patchwork of pagan myths? In this episode of Take 2 Theology, Zach and Michael respond to online critics who claim the Bible is unreliable and Jesus is just a recycled myth.
Covered in this episode:
– What do textual variants actually show?
– How do the Dead Sea Scrolls impact our confidence in Scripture?
– How was the New Testament canon formed—and does it hold up under scrutiny?
– Are the popular “copycat messiah” claims (Horus, Mithras, Dionysus, etc.) grounded in truth or internet fiction?
Drawing from respected scholars like Bart Ehrman, N.T. Wright, and Ronald Nash, this episode unpacks the facts and clears the fog—so you can know what the Bible really is and why it still stands.
Lutheran Satire Video--Horace Ruins Christmas: https://youtu.be/s0-EgjUhRqA?si=dNr0t7vhazj-Afkm
David Wood is the gentleman whose first name Michael could not remember.
Jesus, Recycled Redeemer? (STR Article): https://www.str.org/w/jesus-recycled-redeemer-
Person of Interest by J. Warner Wallace: https://coldcasechristianity.com/person-of-interest-by-j-warner-wallace/
Books by Michael Kruger on the Canon:
https://a.co/d/fqYyP8z
https://a.co/d/gLaG99d
Prominent atheists and skeptics who converted to Christianity:
C. S. Lewis (Oxford scholar, Mere Christianity), Francis Collins (geneticist, The Language of God), Alister McGrath (theologian, The Dawkins Delusion), Rosalind Picard (MIT professor), Allan Sandage (cosmologist), Anthony Flew (philosopher, late-life belief in God), A. N. Wilson (novelist/biographer), Guillaume Bignon (French philosopher), Malcolm Muggeridge (journalist/satirist), Lee Strobel (The Case for Christ), Andrew Klavan (novelist/screenwriter), Jennifer Fulwiler (Something Other Than God), J. Warner Wallace (cold-case detective, Cold-Case Christianity), Abdu Murray (former Muslim apologist), Nabeel Qureshi (Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus), and Jonathan Noyes (former atheist lawyer, now apologist with Stand to Reason).
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Episode 2.35
The Mountain, The Son, and The Substitute
Abraham’s near-sacrifice of Isaac in Genesis 22 is one of the most gripping and unsettling scenes in the Bible—but it’s also one of the most theologically rich. In this episode, Zach and Michael unpack the deeper meanings behind this test of faith, revealing how it foreshadows the gospel itself.
From God’s sovereign right over life and death, to Abraham’s belief in resurrection, to the striking parallels between Isaac and Jesus—this episode explores the profound continuity between the Old and New Testaments. Along the way, we’ll contrast God’s test with the horrific child sacrifices of pagan religions and examine how geography ties Mount Moriah to the Temple and the Cross.
Whether you’re familiar with the story or hearing it with fresh ears, this episode offers a Christ-centered look at one of Scripture’s most iconic moments.
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