043: (More) New Testament Basics with John Bergsma

The Art of Catholic with Matthew Leonard

There are 27 books in the New Testament...19 of them came from just two guys. Sts. Paul and John are two of the most influential men in the history of the world. 14 of the books of the most popular book in the history of the world (the Bible...just in case you were scratching your head) are traditionally ascribed to Paul. Not to be outdone, St. John wrote the "greatest piece of world literature, period" says John Bergsma. (Plus four other New Testament books.) These guys are Bible rock stars. Even so, they need some explication. Paul is sometimes clear as mud. (Have you read Romans?) John sometimes soars so high into the celestial mist that he needs to brought back down to earth. Theologians spend years trying to unpack what both have to say. We don't have that kind of time. But we do have Dr. John Bergsma. Bergsma's famous art! In this rollicking conclusion to my two part interview on New Testament Basics for Catholics, we'll finish off what we started in episode 42. First, we'll conclude our discussion of Luke and its sequel, Acts, and then pivot to Paul and John. Among other things we'll: Unveil the two stars of the book of Acts and the two sections of the book (Act 1 and Act 2:) Answer the famous question posed by an ex-priest of why Jesus kept promising a kingdom, but all we got was a Church Unpack the overall purpose of the book of Romans (good luck!) Explain what Paul means by the controversial phrase "obedience of faith". (A very important concept to understand for discussion with our Protestant brethren.) Identify the "good news" and "bad news" of Romans (We'll do the bad news first, of course.) Hear Bergsma explain why the Gospel of John the "greatest piece of world literature, period" Show why St. John is SO Catholic. You do NOT want to miss this episode. Enjoy! Matthew P.S. Don't forget to grab your FREE copy of my quick guide to deeper prayer 8 Ways To Jumpstart Your Prayer Life! It's an easy step-by-step guide to help you rocket to God! Don't miss a show! Subscribe to The Art of Catholic by clicking this link and then clicking "View in iTunes" under the picture and then "Subscribe"! Android user? You can listen to The Art of Catholic on the Beyond Pod app from the Google Play Store. Want to experience Catholic Europe? Join Matthew on his pilgrimage to Fatima, Lourdes, Avila, and many other amazing holy sites this October 23rd to November 1st. Click here for details.