Take 2 Theology

Episode 2.24 From Life to the Cosmos Is the design we see in nature just an illusion—or does it point to something more? In this second installment of our series on the teleological argument, we explore layers of apparent fine-tuning across biology, planetary systems, the solar system, and the universe itself. From the genetic code and molecular machines to the unique traits of Earth, the Sun, and...

Episode 2.23 What did Jesus talk about more than anything else? The Kingdom of God. In this deep-dive episode, we unpack the most central theme of Jesus' ministry: the Kingdom—not as a political empire or future fantasy, but as the present and coming reign of God. From its “already / not yet” tension to its ethical demands, spiritual entry requirements, and eternal destiny, this episode traces...

Episode 2.22 Introducing the Teleological Argument Is the fine-tuning of the universe the result of necessity, randomness, or intelligent design? In this first episode of our new series, we explore the teleological argument—the idea that purpose, order, and complexity in the universe point to a Designer. We trace the argument’s roots from Aquinas and Paley to modern thinkers like Dembski, Behe, Go...

Episode 2.21 The Final Chapters of Ezra and Nehemiah In the concluding episode of our Ezra-Nehemiah series, we walk through Nehemiah 8–13—an emotional and theological rollercoaster. From the public reading of the Law and national covenant renewal to the bittersweet failures that follow, this episode traces Israel’s spiritual high points... and its all-too-human shortcomings. We see the people hung...

Episode 2.20 In the conclusion of this two-part series, Michael continues the conversation with Brian, whose farming accident became a turning point not just physically—but spiritually. In this episode, we shift from trauma to transformation. Brian reflects on the challenges of recovery, the unexpected graces that followed, and how God used pain to shape his priorities and deepen his faith. This i...

Episode 2.19 Walls, Warfare, and Worship In Episode 4 of our Ezra/Nehemiah series, we follow the bold return of Nehemiah as he hears of Jerusalem’s broken walls and leads a movement of restoration from ruin. Spanning chapters 1–7, this episode traces Nehemiah’s heartfelt prayer, strategic leadership, and relentless faith in the face of both external opposition and internal corruption. We explore t...

Episode 2.18 In this powerful and personal episode, Michael sits down with a friend from his hometown who shares the story of a farming accident that changed his life forever. This isn’t just about machinery or missteps. It’s about clarity in crisis. This is a story of tragedy, survival, and deep reflection. Of how quickly the status quo can shatter—and what really matters when it does. Whether yo...

Episode 2.17 In this episode, we witness a fresh movement in Israel’s return from exile—led not by a builder like Zerubbabel, but by a teacher and priest named Ezra. Sent by King Artaxerxes, Ezra returns to Jerusalem decades after the temple’s completion, carrying royal authority and a heart devoted to God’s Word. His mission? To study, obey, and teach the Law of the Lord. We explore Ezra’s arriva...

Episode 2.16 Can we explain morality, reason, consciousness, or beauty without God? In this episode, we walk through the Moral Argument for God's existence and expand into a broader set of transcendental arguments that point to a divine Creator. We begin by showing that if God does not exist, objective moral values and duties lose their foundation—morality becomes subjective or evolutionary. Y...

Episode 2.15 In this episode, we trace the first major movement of Ezra (chapters 1–6), where the Persian king Cyrus fulfills biblical prophecy by sending Jewish exiles back to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple. Though often overlooked, the main characters here aren’t Ezra, but Zerubbabel, a descendant of David, and Jeshua, the high priest’s grandson. Together they lead over 40,000 people on a journ...

Episode 2.14 The church isn’t a building or a brand—it’s a people on mission, empowered by God and equipped with spiritual gifts. In the final episode of our series on biblical church ministry, we turn our focus to the people who make up the body of Christ. We explore what Scripture teaches about the universal church and the local church, the ongoing roles of elders and deacons, and the unique, Sp...

Episode 2.13 They’re not miracle workers, prophets, or kings—so why do Ezra and Nehemiah matter? In this kickoff episode of our new series, Michael and Zach explore why these often-overlooked books are anything but boring. Too often reduced to leadership manuals, the real story is far richer: faithful men giving everything to restore God’s people… and still falling short. We unpack the structure,...

Episode 2.12 Programs can be a powerful tool for church ministry—but only when they serve the right purpose. In this episode, we look at how church programs help fulfill the biblical mission to glorify God through evangelism and edification. Drawing from Acts 2:42, Michael and Zach walk through the difference between faithful structure and fruitless tradition. How can you tell when a program is wo...

Episode 2.11 From million-dollar mansions to private jets, the rise of “celebrity pastors” has sparked questions about fame, finances, and faithfulness in church leadership. In this episode, we explore the complex topic of pastoral compensation, beginning with high-profile examples like Joel Osteen, Creflo Dollar, and Carl Lentz—and what ethical concerns their lifestyles raise. Then we turn to Scr...

Episode 2.10 What did the earliest church focus on—and what should we still be devoted to today? In this episode, we unpack Acts 2:42, where four clear priorities are laid out: the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayer. These weren’t optional extras; they were the foundation of a healthy, God-glorifying church. Michael and Zach walk through each priority, showing how it...

Episode 2.9 What the New Testament Teaches About Generosity What does the New Testament really say about giving? Is the tithe still required—or has something deeper taken its place? In this episode, we unpack the language, theology, and practical teachings of New Testament generosity. From Jesus' teachings to Paul's letters, we trace how giving moves from law-based obligation to grace-driv...

Episode 2.8 Why does the church exist? In this episode, we begin a short series on biblical church ministry by laying the foundation: the church exists to glorify God. Drawing from passages like Romans 15 and 1 Corinthians 6, we explore how the church’s ultimate purpose isn’t growth, tradition, or activity—but glory. That glory takes shape through the Great Commission—evangelism (reaching the lost...

Episode 2.7 Was tithing in the Old Testament just 10%? In this episode, we take a deep dive into the tithes and offerings required under the Mosaic Law and discover a much broader and more complex picture than many realize. We explore the Levitical tithe, the Festival tithe, and the Charity tithe, which together averaged around 20–23% annually over a 7-year cycle—plus a range of sacrificial offeri...

Episode 2.6 In this special episode, Zach interviews Stephen and Emily Bostic as they share their heart for fostering children. Recorded on the road while returning from a conference on foster care and adoption, the conversation captures the passion, challenges, and calling behind their decision to pursue fostering. Stephen and Emily open up about what led them to this step, how the Lord has worke...

Episode 2.5 In Part 2 of our series on Biblical stewardship, we continue exploring practical, gospel-centered principles for managing money well. This episode covers four more key areas of financial wisdom—focusing on the heart behind how we use money. We discuss the dangers of greed and materialism, the biblical responsibility to provide for your family, how to trust God in financial trials, and...

Episode 2.4 Episode Description: In Part 2 of our deep dive into Genesis 1, we ask the big question: Which creation view best fits both the Bible and the observable universe? Building on our discussion of yom in Part 1, we compare major views—Young Earth, Old Earth, Theistic Evolution, and more—and examine how broader creation passages across Scripture (Job, Psalms, Romans, etc.) shape our underst...

Episode 2.3 The Bible has a lot to say about money—and so have we. But how do we take timeless truths and turn them into daily habits? In this episode, Michael and Zach move from principle to practice as we explore eight key areas of faithful financial stewardship. From recognizing God’s ownership to making wise investments, we offer practical, Scripture-rooted advice for managing your money to th...

Episode 2.2 In this Think Tank Thursday (T3) episode, we dive into one of the most debated words in Genesis 1—yom, the Hebrew word for “day.” Can a faithful, text-driven reading of Scripture support the idea that the creation “days” were long periods rather than 24-hour intervals? Michael and Zach unpack the linguistic range of yom in the Old Testament and address common objections to the Day-Age...

Episode 2.1 In this episode, we begin a biblical theology of money and possessions, focusing on the book of Proverbs. Using Kevin DeYoung’s material as a foundation, we explore ten key principles about money that range from the dangers of extremes to the value of generosity and wisdom. Proverbs presents a balanced, God-centered view of wealth—affirming hard work and wise planning while warning aga...

Episode 129 In this heartfelt episode, Michael and Zach sit down with Michael’s eldest child, Chloe, for a candid conversation about her journey of faith. Chloe shares her testimony, what God has been teaching her lately, and how she’s learning to walk with Christ in everyday life. From personal challenges to moments of encouragement, this episode offers a glimpse into a young believer’s growing r...