Wise Counsel

On this episode of Wise Counsel , host Robert Smith explores Genesis 1:1–31 as more than a story of beginnings—it is a poetic, structured proclamation of God’s cosmic order and kingship. Drawing on insights from biblical scholars like John Walton, Michael Heiser, and Bruce Waltke, this episode considers how the creation narrative mirrors ancient temple liturgy and reflects God’s intention for wors...

 In this episode of Wise Counsel , host Robert Smith explores the mystery and majesty of Job 38:7 , where God describes the moment of creation with poetic imagery: “when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy.” What does this cosmic celebration mean, and who are these “sons of God”? Drawing from the divine council worldview of Dr. Michael Heiser and the literary in...

On this episode of Wise Counsel , host Robert Smith explores Genesis 35 as a moment of personal and national renewal. Drawing from biblical scholarship and U.S. history, particularly Abraham Lincoln's call for national repentance during the Civil War, this episode highlights how moments of crisis can become invitations to return to God. Featuring insights from Gordon Wenham and John Walton, th...

In this episode of Wise Counsel , host Robert Smith walks listeners through the profound prayer of Jesus in John 17, often called the "High Priestly Prayer." Drawing from the insights of biblical scholars Dr. Michael S. Heiser and Dr. D.A. Carson, Robert explores the themes of glory, unity, and mission that define Jesus' final recorded prayer before His arrest. Listeners will hear a...

In this episode of Wise Counsel, we explore Deuteronomy 6:8 and its deeper meaning beyond a literal mark. What does it mean to bind God’s commandments to our hands and foreheads? How does this Old Testament command relate to the Mark of the Beast in Revelation? Join Elder Josiah as he unpacks the biblical concept of allegiance, showing how our thoughts and actions reveal whether we bear the mark o...

What exactly is Leviathan —a sea monster, a myth, a metaphor for chaos? In this episode of the Wise Counsel Podcast , we dive deep into the biblical and ancient Near Eastern background of this mysterious creature. From the thundering poetry of Job 41 to the apocalyptic promises of Isaiah 27, Leviathan serves as a symbol of untamable power, cosmic disorder, and God’s unmatched sovereignty. We explo...

In this heartfelt and empowering episode, we explore the subtle yet damaging tactic of gaslighting—where individuals are manipulated into doubting their own reality—and how God's truth offers clarity, healing, and strength. Through a biblical lens, we examine Joseph’s story in Genesis, Jesus’ words in John 8:32, and practical steps to combat emotional and spiritual manipulation. Whether you’ve fac...

In just one verse, the entire message of the Gospel comes into focus. In this five-minute devotional, we reflect on John 3:16—the depth of God's love, the gift of His Son, and the promise of eternal life for all who believe. Whether you're familiar with this verse or hearing it with fresh ears, let its truth renew your heart today. Join us as we explore what it means to believe, to live in...

In this five-minute devotional, we explore the opening verses of John’s Gospel, where Jesus is revealed as the eternal Word, the Creator, the Light, and the source of life. Reflect on the wonder of the incarnation—God taking on flesh to dwell among us—and the hope of being called children of God. With scripture, prayer, and a brief reflection, this episode invites you to marvel at the grace and tr...

In this devotional, we explore Genesis 15 and the profound moment when Abram (later Abraham) is reassured by God of His promises, despite his doubts and lack of an heir. Through the lens of "believing loyalty," as described by scholars like Dr. Michael Heiser and Dr. Ronn Johnson, we delve into what true faith looks like—beyond intellectual agreement, it is a steadfast, unwavering trust...

Welcome, friends! In today’s episode, we journey through Genesis 1, uncovering its deep theological layers and examining how it serves as a polemic against the creation myths of the ancient Near East. Genesis 1 begins with the radical declaration, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth,” setting it apart from the common narratives where gods emerge from chaos. Instead, Genesis pr...

In this episode of Wise Counsel , we explore one of the most significant themes in biblical theology: the concept of God's temple and His presence among His people. From the grandiosity of Solomon's Temple to the more subdued Second Temple, we examine whether Yahweh was ever truly impressed with these monumental structures or if He had something greater in mind all along. We’ll dive into the theol...

In this episode of Wise Counsel , host R.M. Smith explores a striking biblical connection between Jacob’s ladder in Genesis 28 and the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11. Though these passages share the same Hebrew word ( sullam ), their meanings stand in stark contrast—one represents human pride and self-reliance, while the other reveals God’s initiative to bridge the gap between heaven and earth. Join...

In this episode, we explore the timeless truths of 1 Corinthians 13, often called the "Love Chapter." The apostle Paul teaches us that love is more than a feeling—it is the foundation of our faith, shaping our words, actions, and relationships. We'll reflect on the characteristics of true, selfless love, its enduring nature, and why it surpasses all spiritual gifts. Join us as we examine how we ca...

Welcome to Wise Counsel , where we seek biblical wisdom for life’s toughest questions. In today’s episode, we explore Joshua 9 —the story of the Gibeonites, who deceived Israel into making a covenant with them. Did Israel fail by not consulting Yahweh, or was this part of God’s providential plan? We’ll examine scholarly perspectives, historical context, and theological insights to uncover what thi...

In this episode of Wise Counsel , we examine the story of Achan in Joshua 7—a sobering lesson on how hidden sin can bring devastating consequences, not just for the individual but for the entire community. Why did Achan’s disobedience result in Israel’s defeat? How does this episode fit into the biblical theme of holiness and corporate accountability? We’ll explore insights from biblical scholars...

In this episode of Wise Counsel , we explore the story of the Nephilim and the giants in the Promised Land, focusing on the faith-filled response of Joshua and Caleb. What can we learn from their courage and trust in God when faced with overwhelming obstacles? Drawing on biblical insights and the theological perspective of Dr. Michael Heiser, we’ll uncover how these giants were more than just phys...

In this episode of Wise Council , we explore Obadiah 1:19 and its prophetic vision of Israel’s restoration, specifically the reference to “the land of the Philistines,” including Gaza. What did this prophecy mean in its ancient context, and how does it fit within the broader biblical theme of restoration? We examine Gaza’s historical significance, from its Philistine roots to its role in later emp...

In this episode of the Wise Counsel Podcast, we explore Joshua 1:1-9, a pivotal passage where God commissions Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land. As Joshua steps into a daunting new chapter, God reassures him with timeless truths: His unchanging faithfulness to His promises, the power of His presence, and the call to courage rooted in obedience to His Word. We’ll unpack how God’s covenan...

Episode Description: In this episode of the Wise Counsel Podcast, we delve into the story of the Akeda—the binding of Isaac in Genesis 22—and its profound implications for Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac. Through scripture readings and a reflective monologue from Sarah's perspective, we explore the emotional and spiritual toll of obedience, trust, and separation in the wake of this defining moment. How...

In this devotional, we dive into Exodus 15, a defining moment of praise as Moses and the Israelites sing in response to God’s miraculous deliverance at the Red Sea. The Song of Moses is a powerful blend of theology, gratitude, and prophecy, portraying God as a mighty warrior who vanquishes Israel's enemies, a holy and majestic being beyond compare, and a faithful guide committed to His covenant pr...

In this episode of the Wise Counsel Podcast, Robert Smith explores the transformative role of music and singing in worship, examining its biblical roots and its significance for believers today. Through scriptures from Psalms to the New Testament, Robert discusses how worship through song is more than an act of praise; it’s a powerful expression of prayer, a tool in spiritual battles, and a daily...

In this episode of the Five-Minute Devotional Podcast, we delve into the profound lessons found in the story of David, Nabal, and Abigail from 1 Samuel 25. The narrative uncovers deep truths about the nature of good and evil, how we respond to God’s grace, and the transformative power of shalom—a peace that goes beyond mere absence of conflict and embraces wholeness. We explore David’s initial str...

In this episode, we dive deep into Ephesians 6:12 to explore the spiritual realities behind our daily struggles. The Apostle Paul reveals that our true battle is not against "flesh and blood," but against a hierarchy of spiritual forces that exist beyond the visible world. Drawing from the Bible, including passages from the Old Testament like Psalm 82 and Deuteronomy 32, we unpack the biblical con...