Two Texts
John Andrews and David Harvey
A Podcast about the Bible
Every two weeks, from two different countries, the two hosts of the Two Texts podcast pick two biblical texts to talk about. Each episode we pick one text to talk about, which invariably leads to us talking about two texts and often many more.
Dr John Andrews and Dr David Harvey share a mutual fascination with the Bible. Simple yet complex; ancient yet relevant; challenging yet comforting. But one thing that fascinates them consistently is that, like a kaleidoscope, no matter how many times they look at it there is something new, fresh and exciting to talk about.
This podcast is designed for you regardless of how much or how little you've read the Bible. Grab a hot beverage, a notepad (or app), and a Bible, sit back, listen, enjoy, and learn to also become fascinated (or grow your fascination) with this exciting, compelling and mysterious book.
John and David are two friends who love teaching the Bible and have both been privileged enough to be able to spend their careers doing this - in colleges, universities, churches, homes and coffee shops. The two of them have spent extended periods of time as teaching staff and leadership in seminary and church contexts. John has regularly taught at David's church, and there was even a point where John was David's boss!
Nowadays David is a Priest and Pastor in Calgary, Canada, and John teaches and consults for churches in the UK and around the world. They're both married with children (John 3, David 1) and in John's case even grandchildren. In their down time you'll find them cooking, reading, running or watching football (but the one thing they don't agree on is which team to support).
If you want to get in touch with either of them about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
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Top 10 Two Texts Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Two Texts episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Two Texts for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Two Texts episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
01/23/24 • 34 min
In which John and David discuss the momentous decisions of the Council of Jerusalem—a pivotal point where Christianity embraced Gentiles, unfettered by Jewish customs. As we investigate this landmark event detailed in Acts 15, we reveal how the seeds of unity were sown and the groundwork was laid for a church that transcends divisions of heritage and tradition. The diversity of teachers and the optimistic wave that buoyed the early Christian mission shines through in our conversation, offering a fascinating glimpse into the shaping of our faith's history.
Wrestle with the complexities of leadership and companionship within the ministry as we scrutinize the dynamic tension between Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark. The episode casts Barnabas in the light of forgiveness, extending second chances where Paul initially hesitates due to doubts about John Mark's dependability. Through an insightful discussion, we touch upon the evolution of their relationship, contemplating its profound influence on the New Testament and the teachings that guide us today. Join us as we reflect on the themes of trust, reconciliation, and the redemptive grace that punctuated the formative stages of the Christian church.
Episode 132 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 77
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
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05/16/24 • 35 min
In which John and David continue their exploration of the Apostle Paul's transition from Athens to Corinth, delving into the striking contrast between the intellectual debates in Athens and the grounded, everyday reality of tent-making in Corinth with Priscilla and Aquila. Emphasizing the significant shift in Paul's ministry and his interactions with both Jewish and Gentile communities, the episode examines themes of opposition, adaptation, and the spread of Christianity. They also contextualize the discussion with reflections on historical tensions, migrations, and the human aspects underpinning New Testament narratives, advocating for a nuanced appreciation of community, identity, and faith in the early Christian world.
Episode 149 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 94
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show
John and David want to ensure that Two Texts always remains free content for everyone. We don't want to create a paywall or have premium content that would exclude others.
However, Two Texts costs us around £60 per month (US$75; CAD$100) to make. If you'd like to support the show with even just a small monthly donation it would help ensure we can continue to produce the content that you love.
Thank you so much.
06/04/21 • 54 min
In which John and David discuss how Jesus tells a somewhat controversial story. The parable of the Pharisee and the Tax-Collector is often told as an instruction to stay humble, but what if Luke wanted to make sure that we saw something more fundamental that Jesus was hinting at?
- Click Here to read the text from Luke 18:9-14
- Click Here to read the text from Romans 3:21-28
- Click Here to see some of Robert Farrar Capon's Kingdom, Grace and Judgment which David really wants you to read.
- Click Here if you're interested in the book that informed some of David's comments about "world upside-down" and "temple to house". The Social World of Luke-Acts is an academic level exploration of some of the contextual realities in this gospel.
- Click Here for Miroslav Volf's Exclusion and Embrace where he discusses Jesus' ministry "against exclusion". This book isn't an easy read, but a google of the reviews online will give you an idea of what Volf's pursuing.
- Click Here for the T.S. Elliot poem that concluded the episode
Episode 11 of the Two Texts Podcast | Parables of Jesus Series 11
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
03/19/24 • 42 min
In which John and David embark on an exploration of faith and transformation in our latest episode, continuing to focus on the gripping narrative of Acts 16, where the Holy Spirit’s influence in the early church is unmistakable. Together, we keep unravelling the story of Paul, Silas, and a Roman jailer whose life is forever changed, reflecting on the intersection of the Good Samaritan's parable and the compelling themes of both spiritual and physical liberation.
As we wrestle with the jailer's poignant question, "What must I do to be saved?" we delve into the tension between the pursuit of salvation and the gospel's declaration that salvation is a gift of grace. Our conversation explores the heart of the gospel message, where actions are not the path to salvation, but instead, it is through trust that we embrace the work already done. This episode is a journey into the very essence of Christian grace, as seen through the eyes of the early believers, revealing the instant and egalitarian nature of God's gift of salvation — a concept that remains as radical and transformative today as it was millennia ago.
Diving into the sacraments, we discuss how the early church grappled with the intricacies of faith and practice, specifically the act of baptism, and how these traditions have evolved over the centuries. Our dialogue offers a deeper understanding of how tangible expressions of faith, like baptism and communion, serve as vital reminders of our spiritual convictions. We close with our heartfelt thanks to our listeners and supporters, who make these enriching discussions possible, inviting you to immerse yourself in an episode that celebrates faith's timeless practices and the enduring power of the gospel.
Episode 140 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 85
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show
John and David want to ensure that Two Texts always remains free content for everyone. We don't want to create a paywall or have premium content that would exclude others.
However, Two Texts costs us around £60 per month (US$75; CAD$100) to make. If you'd like to support the show with even just a small monthly donation it would help ensure we can continue to produce the content that you love.
Thank you so much.
03/20/24 • 37 min
We then shift gears to a heartfelt examination of forgiveness and accountability, inspired by modern-day parallels like the recovery steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. As we navigate the complexities of true repentance versus superficial apologies, our conversation challenges you to consider the transformative power of owning one's mistakes. We discuss the delicate balance of forgiveness and making amends, emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the Gospel through transparent acts of grace. This episode promises an engaging and thought-provoking journey through the significance of these acts and their potential to transform communities.
Episode 141 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 86
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show
John and David want to ensure that Two Texts always remains free content for everyone. We don't want to create a paywall or have premium content that would exclude others.
However, Two Texts costs us around £60 per month (US$75; CAD$100) to make. If you'd like to support the show with even just a small monthly donation it would help ensure we can continue to produce the content that you love.
Thank you so much.
02/06/24 • 36 min
In which John and David navigate the aftermath of the Jerusalem Council in Acts 16, where Paul's trials in Lystra pave the way for Timothy's introduction. Be prepared to uncover the critical moments that steered the early church's expansion and how Timothy's backstory is intertwined with the redemptive journey of the Christian community.
Our dialogue takes a heartfelt turn, examining the profound connection between Paul and Timothy. Through their story, we gain a window into the essence of spiritual mentorship and its power to shape the church. Discover Timothy's transformation into the quintessential pastor as we highlight the influence of Paul's letters and the virtues essential for church leadership. This relationship, both personal and spiritual, offers timeless lessons for today's faith leaders.
Finally, we grapple with the gripping concept of gospel freedom through Timothy's controversial circumcision. The episode dissects the strategic moves made by Paul and Timothy to ensure the gospel resonated across cultures—a testament to their commitment to 'becoming all things to all people.' Reflect on the pivotal sacrifices that have fortified the church's foundation and how this principle can guide contemporary churches. Join us for this thought-provoking journey, where tradition, transformation, and the cost of discipleship collide.
Episode 134 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 79
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show
03/07/24 • 31 min
In which David and John unravel the story of a first-century jailer whose encounter with Paul and Silas turned despair into hope. We reflect on this profound event recorded in Acts 16, where economic turmoil and spiritual darkness are pierced by the radiant light of the Gospel. The episode traverses the emotional landscape of the jailer's transformation, scrutinizing the metaphorical 'calling for lights' as a universal yearning for enlightenment. We bridge the ancient narrative with contemporary resonances, acknowledging how deeply this story touches our own lives and compels our own awakening.
We also explore the echoes of household salvation, from Lydia's conversion to the baptism of the jailer's entire family, showcasing the Gospel's inclusive reach. Through the lens of the original Greek text, we scrutinize the weighty significance of the name of Jesus in the salvation story. We envisage the jailer and his family, years later, gathered to hear Paul's letter to the Philippians, realizing the seeds of faith planted in that dark cell bore fruit in an enduring Christian fellowship. This episode uncovers the transformation that occurs when the message of hope is not only heard but embraced, challenging us to consider the lasting impact of faith on our lives and communities.
Episode 139 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 84
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show
John and David want to ensure that Two Texts always remains free content for everyone. We don't want to create a paywall or have premium content that would exclude others.
However, Two Texts costs us around £60 per month (US$75; CAD$100) to make. If you'd like to support the show with even just a small monthly donation it would help ensure we can continue to produce the content that you love.
Thank you so much.
04/30/24 • 39 min
In which John and David peel back the layers of Paul's engagement with Greek thinkers, using their own religious and cultural touchstones to introduce Jesus and the Gospel.
As we unravel the nuances of Paul's argument, we ponder his approach in adapting scriptural teachings for a polytheistic audience. We explore his use of the Athenians' altar to the 'unknown God' to pivot to a discussion on how this was the God he wanted to introduce to them.
With a touch of scholarly critique and reflection, we also address the human condition of searching for the divine. This discussion opens up a compassionate view of spiritual hunger and the human attempts to grasp the divine, even when shrouded in ignorance. Through Paul's personal revelations, we explore the notion of divine intimacy—how it's not about our efforts to know God, but the transformative power of being known by Him.
Episode 146 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 91
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
________
Help us keep Two Texts free for everyone by becoming a supporter of the show
John and David want to ensure that Two Texts always remains free content for everyone. We don't want to create a paywall or have premium content that would exclude others.
However, Two Texts costs us around £60 per month (US$75; CAD$100) to make. If you'd like to support the show with even just a small monthly donation it would help ensure we can continue to produce the content that you love.
Thank you so much.
10/20/22 • 33 min
In which John and David discuss the deep generosity of the disciples in Acts. Exploring how they lived out the call of Jesus (and Torah), we discuss the disciples' behaviour and attitude towards the poor.
Episode 73 of the Two Texts Podcast | Disruptive Presence 20
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
________
Ads that support our show, or a chance for you to support us:
Lost Son x2 | Parables 8
Two Texts
06/01/21 • 67 min
In which John and David look at the parable of the lost son in Luke 15. But is it a parable about only one lost son, or two? And how might understanding a Jewish tradition called Keżażah help us appreciate this parable in a whole new way? And why does David want to know how many hamburgers are made from one cow?
- Click Here to read the text from Luke 15:11-32
- Click Here to learn more about Bailey's Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes that John and David mention in this episode
- Click Here to read about Keżażah
- Click Here to learn more about the book John bought for his Dad - Bailey's The Cross and the Prodigal
- Click Here to see a book on grace that David recommended by John Barclay
Episode 8 of the Two Texts Podcast | Parables of Jesus Series 8
If you want to get in touch about something in the podcast you can reach out on [email protected] or by liking and following the Two Texts podcast on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. If you enjoy the podcast, we’d love it if you left a review or comment where you’re listening from – and if you really enjoyed it, why not share it with a friend?
Music by Woodford Music (c) 2021
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FAQ
How many episodes does Two Texts have?
Two Texts currently has 196 episodes available.
What topics does Two Texts cover?
The podcast is about Christianity, Testament, Spirituality, Religion & Spirituality, Podcasts, Religion, Biblical, Bible and Scripture.
What is the most popular episode on Two Texts?
The episode title 'Table Service | Disruptive Presence 25' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Two Texts?
The average episode length on Two Texts is 40 minutes.
How often are episodes of Two Texts released?
Episodes of Two Texts are typically released every 2 days, 5 hours.
When was the first episode of Two Texts?
The first episode of Two Texts was released on May 1, 2021.
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