In this Christmas episode of the Learning Laborers podcast, Denver and Taylor explore the multi-dimensional nature of Jesus' Messiahship through the lens of Matthew 1-2. Drawing on the work of Novenson, they explore the dynamics of Second Temple Messiah figures - some of who claimed messiahship based on birth, others based on merit. All of these figures, though, are compared to David in one way or another.

How does Jesus' birth story fit into this matrix of Messiahship? What makes Jesus the legitimate heir to David's throne? Tune in to to hear a fresh perspective on the Christmas story.

The Grammar of Messianism by Matthew Novenson

The True Meaning of Christmas by Michael Barber

00:00 Introduction to the Learning Laborers Podcast00:44 Christmas Greetings and Traditions02:20 Exploring Jesus as the Messiah06:39 Understanding the Term 'Messiah'10:16 Messianic Expectations in Second Temple Judaism16:57 Legitimizing Messianic Claims26:05 Matthew's Genealogical Claim for Jesus32:59 Jesus as the New David34:08 The Christmas Story and Prophecies35:06 Herod's Threat and Jesus' Early Life38:42 Jesus' Anointing and Baptism47:22 The Vulnerability of Baby Jesus49:26 Concluding Thoughts and Christmas Wishes

In this episode, Matt, Denver, and Taylor welcome Dr. Shane J. Wood, a professor of New Testament at Ozark Christian College and Lincoln Seminary.

The discussion delves into Dr. Wood's unique approach to biblical interpretation, which emphasizes empathy and vulnerability. Drawing from his books like Thinning the Veil and ongoing works, Dr. Wood explains how understanding the humanity of biblical characters and allowing the text to unearth personal experiences can lead to profound transformation. The conversation also touches on the challenges and responsibilities of pastors in guiding their congregations through the scriptures. Resources and methods for deeply engaging with the Bible across its various genres are discussed, offering listeners practical insights for their own study and ministry.

Thinning the Veil by Shane J. Wood

Between Two Trees by Shane J. Wood

The Drama of Ephesians by Timothy Gombis

Shane's Website

00:00 Welcome to the Learning Laborers Podcast

00:51 Introducing the Hosts and Today's Episode

01:19 Conversation with Dr. Shane J Wood

03:15 Diving into Biblical Interpretation

06:21 Empathy and Vulnerability in Biblical Study

18:06 The Transformative Power of Scripture

40:34 Challenges in Pastoral Ministry

43:16 The Inner Journey and Empathy in Pastoral Work

44:35 Challenges in the Modern Pulpit

46:00 Personal Struggles and Authenticity

48:12 Addressing Congregational Needs and Identity

52:00 The Role of Story in Scripture and Ministry

56:46 Empathy and Understanding in Biblical Context

01:00:36 The Transformative Power of Scripture

01:06:23 Living Out the Biblical Narrative

01:21:35 Final Reflections and Encouragement for Pastors

What did authentic hospitality look like in the ancient world? What were the lifelong implications for those who engaged in hosting and being hosted? How can the church get back to its roots of hospitality today?

These questions and more will be explored in this episode of the Learning Laborers, as Matt walks Denver and Taylor through the idea of biblical hospitality. This topic served as the central focus of Matt's doctoral research and so he brings some great insights for us to meditate on together.

Resources Mentioned:

Saved by Faith and Hospitality (Joshua Jipp)

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