Best Dr. Michael S. Heiser Podcasts (2025)

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EP086: Q&A Session #9 1:08:15

5d ago1:08:15

1:08:15

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) How does God handle ignorance about Jesus and his present lordship over all gods? 2) What are we to make about the large numbers in a book such as Numbers? 3) How do loyalty and obedience relate to each other? 4) Could Lazarus be the Beloved Disciple in John's gospel? 5) …

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EP085: Q&A Session #8 59:02

12d ago59:02

59:02

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) How is kosmos ("world") used in the NT? 2) How does Jesus use Psalm 82 in John 10:34-36? 3) What does the Bible teach on the state of soul after death? 4) Can Hindu polytheism be interpreted within the framework of DCW monotheism? 5) Why did Jesus use "eating flesh" langu…

1
EP084: Awakening a Generation: Testimony, Theology, and the Chinese Church 1:17:22

19d ago1:17:22

1:17:22

How do culture and suffering shape our faith? Mike Chu unpacks his story with Mel and Rich, exploring the Chinese church, Awakening School, and why theology, mentorship, and mission matter more than ever in today's spiritual landscape. You can find Awakening (AWKNG) School of Theology here: https://awkng.com/ You can find the Shane & Shane songs me…

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EP083: Q&A Session #7 1:23:33

26d ago1:23:33

1:23:33

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) How does a person go about studying the DCW and the related topics it uncovers? 2) How can a DCW increase a person's intimacy with God? 3) Are idols a human invention, and if so, does this show that gods are invented as well? 4) Can I combine Eastern Orthodoxy with wester…

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EP082: Q&A Session #6 1:23:30

1M ago1:23:30

1:23:30

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) Are there foundational beliefs regarding the identity of Jesus and Yahweh in order to be worshipping the correct deity? 2) Is the Hebrew text (MT) younger than the Septuagint? 3) What sins were considered "high-handed"? 4) Are spirit "hauntings" related to sacred space? 5…

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EP081: Q&A Session #5 1:17:33

1M ago1:17:33

1:17:33

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: Could the effects of Jesus' "finished work" have been true while he was still active in his ministry? Did the church fathers use "faith" to mean "loyalty" or "allegiance"? How does the Septuagint handle the Hebrew definite article when it translates the phrase "the angel of …

1
EP080: Raising Warriors: Faith, Identity, and the Unseen Battle 1:19:37

2M ago1:19:37

1:19:37

Faith, identity, and spiritual warfare collide in this powerful episode with Doug Overmyer. Discover how Chi Rho Outdoors is shaping boys through faith and nature—and why sharing your story could be more vital than ever. Doug's website: http://www.seerssee.com/ for his books or to get in contactBy Dr. Ronn Johnson

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EP079: John 8:13-59: "Abraham Rejoiced to See My Day" 1:23:57

2M ago1:23:57

1:23:57

In this episode, Ronn and Mike study the second half of John 8 (vv.13-59), noting that the conversation which follows Jesus' handling of the woman taken in adultery is key for understanding the full narrative. They discuss the theological implications of Jesus' claims, the nature of what it means to be a "sinner" in 2nd Temple Judaism, and the iden…

1
EP078: John 7:32-8:12: The Woman Taken in Adultery 1:20:42

2M ago1:20:42

1:20:42

In this episode, Ronn and Mike look at John 7:32-8:12, exploring the context of Jesus' teachings and his interactions with non-believers who had been threatening to kill him. They discuss the significance of the Holy Spirit's promised arrival, the debate surrounding Jesus' identity, and the woman caught in adultery. Ronn recommended that this last …

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EP077: John 7:1-31: Jesus, the Law 1:22:47

2M ago1:22:47

1:22:47

In this episode, Ronn and Mike look at John 7:1-31. They discuss the importance of constructive disagreements in theology (reflecting upon the recent death of Charlie Kirk), the secretive nature of Jesus' ministry, and the political context surrounding his teachings. Their conversation also explores the treatment of the law by Jesus, the nature of …

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EP076: Gaming the Unseen Realm: Faith and Fantasy in Allies of Majesty 22:32

3M ago22:32

22:32

Mel interviews Anthony Diastello at the DCW Conference about how his role-playing game *Allies of Majesty* weaves faith and divine council concepts into immersive storytelling. They explore how games can foster spiritual awareness, personal agency, and deeper engagement with the unseen realm. You can find his game here: https://www.youtube.com/watc…

1
EP075: John 6:41-71: Being Drawn to Jesus by the Father 1:05:34

3M ago1:05:34

1:05:34

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the latter part of John 6, taking on the themes of forgiveness, the identity of Jesus, and the implications of his teachings on communion (they understand the concept of eating Jesus' flesh to be metaphorical for internalizing his teachings and life). They explore the complexities of forgiveness, and how this …

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EP074: John 6:1-40: Eating the Bread from Heaven 1:00:41

3M ago1:00:41

1:00:41

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss two miracles recorded in John 6:1-40 (the feeding of the 5000 and Jesus' walking on the water), recommending that many who wanted Jesus to be a king misunderstood his primary concern that his followers become truly human in thought and action. The motivations behind seeking Jesus are noted as being complex and…

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EP073: John 5:16-47: Honoring Both Father & Son 1:18:58

3M ago1:18:58

1:18:58

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the significance of Jesus' actions and speeches in John 5. The text leads them to discuss some of the necessary complexities of the Trinity, especially the relationship between the Father and the Son. They also talk about the role of good works in faith, noticing that the early church did not fear good works a…

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EP072: Divine Council Discoveries: Chris and Heather's Story 22:01

3M ago22:01

22:01

Mel sits down with Chris and Heather at the first DCW Conference in Indiana to discuss their journey and how Dr. Michael Heiser's work has reshaped their understanding of Scripture. They reflect on the power of exploring divine council theology and cosmic geography to deepen faith and bring clarity to the biblical narrative.…

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EP071: Q&A Session #4 1:00:30

4M ago1:00:30

1:00:30

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer six questions sent in by listeners: 1) Can a DCW track alongside Reformed theology? 2) What did "salvation" mean to an ancient reader of the OT? From what or whom or where were they were being "saved"? 3) If the Law of Moses was given as a concession for Israel to realign pagan practices towards Yahweh, why doe…

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EP070: Q&A Session #3 59:06

4M ago59:06

59:06

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) What was the relationship between the human Jesus and his mother Mary during his earthly ministry? 2) What is the best argument against the thought that the divine council does not actually exist but is just a divine accommodation? 3) How does the grammar and syntax in Ge…

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EP069: Q&A Session #2 1:03:35

4M ago1:03:35

1:03:35

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) Is it proper to say that Christians worship two beings? Or are Jesus and the Father considered the same being? 2) Is Filipino tradition possibly similar to Chinese tradition when it comes to the worship of ancestors? 3) What exactly happens to my moral sins through Jesus'…

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EP068: Behind Bars, Beyond Walls: A Journey into Prison Ministry 1:07:15

4M ago1:07:15

1:07:15

In this moving episode, Mel and Rich explore Rich's powerful journey into prison ministry, shedding light on the challenges, faith, and transformation he encountered along the way. He and Mel discuss the role of faith, the value of vulnerable male relationships, and the deep need for community within and beyond prison walls. Listeners are inspired …

1
EP067: Q&A Session #1 55:44

5M ago55:44

55:44

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) What are some DCW topics that could benefit from further scholarly attention? 2) Was Jacob's vow in Genesis 28:20 unique? 3) Was the mal'ak of Yahweh in the OT the pre-incarnate Jesus? 4) How should we understand human decision-making and God's sovereignty playing out tog…

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EP066: John 5:1-15: Healing at the Pool of Bethesda 54:27

5M ago54:27

54:27

In this episode, Ronn Mike Chu discuss the man healed at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5:1-15). They describe how this story ultimately illustrates loyalty to the correct deity, as this pool had traditionally been understood to be dedicated to Asclepius, the Roman god of healing. Thus when Jesus cautioned the man to "sin no more" (5:14) he was warning…

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EP065: John 4:27-54: Jesus, Savior & Protector of the World 1:19:03

5M ago1:19:03

1:19:03

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the second half of John 4 (verses 27 through 54) which concludes the Samaritan woman narrative. They note how eternal life, which originally was linked to promises made to Israel, now becomes a promise for the entire world as any person places their loyalty in Jesus Christ. They investigate the meaning of "sav…

1
EP064: Divine Appointments and Deeper Truths 50:34

5M ago50:34

50:34

Mel, Rich, and Ronn unpack their experience at the Divine Council Worldview Conference, highlighting meaningful connections, diverse perspectives, and Spirit-led conversations. They dive into deep topics like the authority of Scripture, the role of the church fathers, and the centrality of atonement within the Divine Council framework. This episode…

1
EP063: John 4 & the Woman at the Well 1:17:20

6M ago1:17:20

1:17:20

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the story of the woman of Samaria in John chapter 4. They discuss the theological implications of faith and loyalty, responding to critiques of Matthew Bates' work on salvation. The conversation also describes the historical context of the relationship between Jews and Samaritans, highlighting the long-standin…

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EP062: Baptism, Purification, and Gentile Sanctification 1:23:41

6M ago1:23:41

1:23:41

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the various themes present in John 3:22-36: righteousness, sin, Jesus' atonement, the significance of baptism, and the acceptance of Gentiles into the family of Abraham. Ronn particularly introduces his understanding of the Holy Spirit's "sanctification" of Gentile communities in the upcoming Book of Acts, rec…

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EP061: John 3:1-21: The Nicodemus Interview 1:40:30

6M ago1:40:30

1:40:30

In this episode, Ronn & Mike explore Nicodemus' interview with Jesus as recorded in John 3:1-21. They discuss the possiblew misconceptions surrounding the Mosaic law, the Jewish expectations of what a messiah would accomplish, the nature of Jesus' teachings, and the meaning behind the term 'born again.' The conversation highlights the historical co…

1
EP060: Beyond the Silo: Michael Heiser's Legacy and the Courage to Think Bigger 26:00

6M ago26:00

26:00

Recorded live at the DCW Conference in Indianapolis, Mel sits down with Jason Bostow, host of the Ring Them Bells podcast, for a powerful conversation on the legacy of Dr. Michael Heiser. They explore Heiser's impact on biblical scholarship, the need for interdisciplinary boldness, and the personal stories inspiring Jason's upcoming documentary.…

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EP059: Interview w/Dr. Matthew Bates on "Beyond the Salvation Wars" 1:12:46

7M ago1:12:46

1:12:46

In this episode, Ronn & Mike welcome Dr. Matthew Bates back to the podcast to discuss his recently released book, Beyond the Salvation Wars. They discuss what the NT Greek word family of pistis indicates for how all peoples are to respond to the Gospel of King Jesus. They dive into the rifts between Protestants and Catholics, and the tensions among…

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EP058: John 2:23-25: Does Faith Include Loyalty? 1:20:37

7M ago1:20:37

1:20:37

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the final three verses of John 2. This short passage allows their conversation to develop at length the concepts of "belief" and "faith" in both the Old Testament (Hebrew, aman) and the New Testament (Greek, pisteou). The study details the implications of Jesus' understanding of belief and loyalty when it come…

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EP057: John 2:13-22: Jesus & the Law 1:19:46

7M ago1:19:46

1:19:46

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Jesus' cleansing of the Temple in John 2:13-22. They use this opportunity to then talk through the complexities of the Old Testament law, its interpretation within evangelicalism, and the historical context of the temple's significance. Their discussion highlights how Jesus' fulfillment of the law is often mis…

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EP056: From Skeptic to Storyteller: Jeff Lees on Faith, Art, and Reimagining the Image of God 1:04:31

7M ago1:04:31

1:04:31

In this episode of the Divine Council Worldview Podcast, Mel and Rich sit down with Jeff Lees to explore his remarkable journey from skepticism to a vibrant faith shaped by ministry, creativity, and the teachings of Dr. Michael Heiser. Jeff opens up about his time in youth ministry, his transition into art and toy design, and how these paths inters…

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EP055: John 2:1-12: Exploring Jesus' Miracles 1:30:33

8M ago1:30:33

1:30:33

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the significance of Jesus' first recorded miracle, his turning of water into wine at the wedding of Cana. They discuss the implications and nature of miracles in the context of faith to Yahweh, especially in context of John's original audience which would have known that created divine beings could perform mir…

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EP054: John 1:29-51: How Did Jesus "Take Away the Sin of the World"? 59:13

8M ago59:13

59:13

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss John 1:29-51, especially noting how Jesus would be the "lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (1:29). They begin by interpreting Old Testament "atonement" (Hebrew, kaphar) texts within their original context. They note how the practice of sacrifice across the ancient world was often accompanied by s…

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EP053: John 1:19-28: How is Jesus "the Messiah"? 1:19:25

8M ago1:19:25

1:19:25

In this episode, Ronn and Mike study John 1:19-28, noting how John the Baptist's story was pivotal in understanding Jesus' identity. They discuss how John's prophetic ministry faced resistance from Jewish leadership, how John's practice of baptism functioned as an act of allegiance in early Christianity, and how the concept of a "messiah" (even "th…

1
EP052: Thoughts and Reflections with the DCW Podcast Hosts 1:09:30

8M ago1:09:30

1:09:30

In this episode, Ronn, Mike, Mel, and Rich come back together as a podcasting team to reflect on a year's worth of episodes, adjustments, and hopes for the DCW, Dr. Heiser's legacy, the work of the Michael S. Heiser Foundation, and the glimmers of change within society at large. They talk about their thoughts and feelings on having lost Dr. Heiser …

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EP051: John 1:2-18: Is Jesus a "Unique Deity"? 1:09:38

9M ago1:09:38

1:09:38

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore John 1:2-18. They consider John's explanation of Jesus' pre-existence, his role as co-creator with the God, the active role of disciples "taking" Jesus in becoming "children of God" (1:12), and the description of Jesus as "the only begotten" of God (1:14, 18). They explore the invisibility of the God of Israel…

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EP050: Healing, Faith & The Unseen Realm: A Pastor's Journey from Trauma to Transformation 1:37:21

9M ago1:37:21

1:37:21

In this episode, Rich and Mel sit down with Pastor Jeremy Keys from Calgary, Alberta, to explore his incredible journey from a traumatic childhood and struggles with addiction to a life transformed by faith. Jeremy shares how his experiences shaped his understanding of the gospel and the importance of family and community in healing. The conversati…

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EP049: John 1:1: Is Jesus God? 1:20:53

9M ago1:20:53

1:20:53

In this episode, Ronn and Mike begin their study of the Gospel of John, focusing specifically on its opening verse. They explore the Greek concept of logos, the apparent distinction between logos and theos, and the concept of the pre-existence of Jesus. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of understanding the relationship betwe…

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EP048: Does Theos mean "God"? 1:08:49

9M ago1:08:49

1:08:49

In this episode, Ronn and Mike Chu discuss the meaning of the term "God" in the New Testament, especially noting the lexical movement between the words elohim and theos as Semitic and Greco-Roman languages developed over the centuries. The importance of this study will be reflected in the opening lines of John 1:1 and the identification of Jesus ("…

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EP047: Israel's Story from Genesis to John 1:15:22

10M ago1:15:22

1:15:22

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the transition from the book of Genesis to the Gospel of John, the next subject of study for this podcast. They recommend that the Bible's authority lies primarily in the overarching story it tells, and that for this reason we must know the background and context of any biblical book before studying it. Their …

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EP046: Genesis 48-50 & Israel's Arrival in Egypt 1:39:40

10M ago1:39:40

1:39:40

In this episode, Ronn and Mike study the concluding chapters of Genesis. They begin by briefly overviewing the concept of biblical inspiration, anticipating that the poem of chapter 49 is likely the work of more than one person or even one era. They note Jacob's curious mention of an elohim/mal'ak (48:15-16) who was responsible for the protection o…

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EP045: Genesis 45-47 & Joseph's Surprise 59:10

10M ago59:10

59:10

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore Joseph's announcement to his brothers, appreciating how this kind of story makes us consider God's involvement in human affairs. They recommend, in the end, that a Divine Council worldview plays an important and unique role in working through the complex question of God's sovereignty and human freewill. Their …

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EP044: Genesis 42-44 & Joseph's Rise to Power 56:57

10M ago56:57

56:57

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the significance of Joseph's actions which led to his release from Egyptian prison. Their conversation touches on the possible significance of the absence of Yahweh's name in the narrative, as well as themes such as deception, emotional burden, transformation, and character development. The discussion highligh…

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EP043: Part 1 - From Engineer to Provocative Podcaster: Dr. Michael Bennett on Truth, Media, and Spiritual Growth 1:39:36

10M ago1:39:36

1:39:36

In part 1 of this thought-provoking episode of the Divine Council Worldview Podcast, hosts Mel and Rich sit down with Dr. Michael Bennett, a trailblazer in technology, as well as provocative Christian podcasting. Together, they reflect on Bennett's journey from engineer to host of the acclaimed FutureQuake radio show, sharing his unique experiences…

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EP042: Genesis 40-41 & Joseph's Descent into Prison 58:26

11M ago58:26

58:26

In this episode Ronn and Mike explore the story of Joseph's trials in prison, considering how his experience speaks to the universal experience of suffering. They discuss how Joseph's faith and character became evident in a situation which was not of his own doing. Their conversation also touches on the broader theological implications of suffering…

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EP041: Genesis 37-39 & The Story of Joseph 1:02:48

11M ago1:02:48

1:02:48

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis 37-39, the beginning of the Joseph narrative. They highlight the significance of Joseph's garment, the deception of the brothers which spanned two decades, and Judah's ironic transformation. The discussion also touches on the nature of sin, the essence of discipleship, and the character of Joseph as se…

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EP040: Genesis 35-36 & The Family of Esau 1:02:13

11M ago1:02:13

1:02:13

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the curious situation of Esau. It can be argued, with a fair amount of certainty, that Easu did not worship Yahweh but instead chose to become loyal to other gods. This will be the primary reason that, in the end, the prophets can say that Jacob is "loved" by Yahweh while Esau is "hated" by him (Malachi 1:2-3)…

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EP039: Divine Transformations: Jorge Gil's Journey from Prison to Global Ministry 1:42:36

11M ago1:42:36

1:42:36

What happens when a life of chaos transforms into a mission to change lives? In this episode of Divine Council Worldview, Mel and Rich sit down with Jorge Gil—a producer, host, and all round workhorse behind not only this podcast, but also the podcast series, 'I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist' and 'Rara Biblia.' Jorge's story is one of dr…

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EP038: Jacob's Reunion with Esau 1:06:11

12M ago1:06:11

1:06:11

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Genesis chapters 33-34, exploring themes of reconciliation, morality, and divine intervention. They review Jacob's reunion with Esau, the implications of the Dinah incident, and the theological significance of Jacob's journey back to Bethel. The conversation highlights the complexities of faith, the nature of …

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EP037: Genesis 31-32 & Jacob's Wresting Match 1:13:48

12M ago1:13:48

1:13:48

In this episode, Ronn and Mike talk through the complexities of Jacob's story in Genesis, focusing on the themes of divine encounters, the complex nature of Jacob's relationship to his god, and the significance of the human/divine wrestling match of Genesis 32. They explore the implications of the two powers in heaven concept, as well as the theolo…

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Dr. Michael S. Heiser Podcasts

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