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Today's episode contains a big announcement regarding my new book, Covenant Faithfulness: An Examination of Matthew 12:1-14.  Tune in as I discuss why I wrote the book, the writing process, and the content of the final product. Be sure to pick up a copy in our bookstore:
​https://www.christianresearcher.com/my-book.html 


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​Today's episode is a laid-back discussion of some of the books I have read during the COVID-19 quarantine and a couple projects I have recently undertaken.  Hope you enjoy!


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A little over two years ago I preached a sermon for the first and only time titled “Savage Death.” I have thought of this message many times and under many different circumstances including our current moment of crisis.  I hope that a reflection on the cross will help put our world, purpose, service, and affliction in their proper perspective. May God bless all who face times of testing in this difficult moment and may He receive all glory due Him for His marvelous gift in Christ. May the people of God continue to worship and remember the Son for the grace He poured out at Calvary.


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Fear: Our Greatest Enemy

Fear is one of the greatest weapons the Devil holds and wields and is a blasphemous attempt to usurp that which properly belongs to God.  Please open your Bible and follow along as we address a pressing issue in light of the pandemic that has befallen our nation/world.
Please share this message and feel free to distribute as you wish.
Fear: Our Greatest Enemy by Nathan Battey.mp3
File Size: 41994 kb
File Type: mp3
Download File


Calm in the midst of the Storm

In this episode we have dispensed with our regular format and content to provide a message that speaks to the chaos that is going on in our world.  With all that is happening it is easy to lose faith and focus on God, so we want to take a moment and provide some thoughts from the Bible that will hopefully provide some comfort in dark times.  God bless.

Books that left a Mark - Part 1: Impacting Young People

Today's episode is the first of several I will publish regarding books that have left their mark on my thinking and I hope will impact your thinking as well.  Here is a list provided with hyperlinks to all 13 of the titles we discuss in this first episode:
#1: New Testament Workbooks 
by Granville Tyler

#2 Why I Am A Member of the Church of Christ by Leroy Brownlow

#3 Proverbs: Bible Text Books by Mike Willis

#4 Richland Hills and Instrumental Music: A Plea to Reconsider by Dave Miller

#5 
Evidence That Demands a Verdict by 
Josh McDowell

#6 David Gibson
Living Life Backwards by 
David Gibson

#7 Muscle and a Shovel by Michael Shank

#8 Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland

#9  Introduction to Biblical Studies by James E. Smith

#10 Darwin's Leap of Faith by John Ankerberg and John Weldon

#11 The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom

#12 Life on the Edge by James Dobson

#13  Mature Enough For Marriage by James Orten

Honorable Mention:
Norman Geisler

Top 3 Reads of 2020: So Far

So far in 2020 I have found three articles that have been extremely helpful in my studies and today I want to share them with you.  

The first can be found in Gordon J. Wenham's Commentary on the Book of Numbers.  The section discussed is found in Wenham's introduction under the headings of Theology and Christian Usage.


The second article is David Dorsey's article titled The Law of Moses and the Christian.


The third article is Stephen G. Dempster's article Exodus and Biblical Theology: On Moving into the Neighborhood with a New Name.


​The latter two articles are available for free download in PDF format through the following link: https://www.christianresearcher.com/articles/top-3-reads-of-2020-so-far

Interview With Clint DeFrance - Part 2: Top Ten Recommendations

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In this week’s episode we continue our interview with Brother Clint DeFrance with a discussion of the three books that have had the greatest impact on his Biblical studies, his reading goals, and his Top 10 Recommendations.

Books discussed in this week’s episode include:
 
Reason and Revelation by Robert Milligan
The Great Commission by Robert Milligan
The Kingdom of the Messiah by Carl Ketcherside
Drawing Water From the Wells of Salvation by Doug Edwards
Handbook on Evidences by George Fisher
Civil Government by David Lipscomb
The Spirit and the Word by Z. T. Sweeney
The Gospel Plan of Salvation by T. W. Brents
A Refutation o f the Doctrine of Total Hereditary Depravity by Aylett Raines
The Formation of the Old Testament Canon by William Henry Green
Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis


Interview With Clint DeFrance - Part 1: Learning to Read

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This past week Brother Clint DeFrance joined me in the studio to record a two-part interview.  In this first episode we discuss Clint’s new podcast Verse by Verse and then transition into a discussion of learning to read, reading habits, first reads, and favorite reading genres.  Along the way Clint shares some wise advice for Bible study practices, good authors to get-to-know, and insights into why older books still hold great spiritual value.


Biblical Theology: Definition, Methodologies, and Proponents

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​One of the greatest influences in becoming a "Whole Bible Christian" is the practice of Biblical Theology.  But what is Biblical Theology?  How is it defined?  What makes it distinct? How is it practiced?  Who are its advocates?  These and other important questions are answered in this week's episode.  We hope this introduction will provoke listeners to investigate a critically important area of Bible study and research.
A transcript containing the material presented in today's episode can be downloaded through the following link. We hope the transcript will assist listeners in further disseminating the material. 


Download Transcript

Why Expository Preaching? A Review of David Jackman's Book

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The current episode reviews David Jackman's book Why Expository Preaching and also provides a primer on why expository preaching is such an important concept.  A critique of current training and teaching methods is provided and direction for a better way is shown.
Books referenced in this episode:
Why Expository Preaching? by David Jackman
Preaching: A Biblical Theology by Jason Meyer


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 In our first episode of the year we talk Reading Goals to set for the coming year. In particular we address 12 different areas of reading to help provide Bible students with a well rounded diet.

​Specific Books Mentioned in Episode:

Introduction to Biblical Studies by James E. Smith
What the Old Testament Authors Really Cared About by Jason DeRouchie
According to Luke by David Gooding
Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland
House to House by Ivan Stewart
Tactics by Greg Koukl
The Preacher and His Work by Jack Meyer Sr. 
Church Leadership and Organization by Flavel Yeakley
Equal Yet Different by Alexander Strauch
Gospel Plan of Salvation by T. W. Brents
Gospel Preacher by Benjamin Franklin
McGarvey's Sermons by J. W. McGarvey
Hermeneutics by D. R. Dungan
Principles of Interpretation by Clinton Lockhart
How Implication Binds and Silence Forbids by George F. Beals
Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by G. K. Beale
A Study Guide to Greater Bible Knowledge by Wayne Jackson
Why Expository Preaching? by David Jackman
Proverbs by James E. Smith
Proverbs by David Hubbard 
Proverbs by Derek Kidner
Living Life Backwards by David Gibson
Finding Favor in the Sight of God by Richard P. Belcher Jr. 
The Unfolding Mystery by Edmond Clowney
Dominion and Dynasty by Stephen Dempster
Series by Crossway Publications:  Short Studies in Biblical Theology 


2019:  Top 5 and Favorite Reads

This week's episode discusses some of my favorite reads from 2019, including my Top 5.  Here are the titles discussed:

Honorable Mentions:
Genesis by Richard P. Belcher Jr.
Follow the Lamb by Rob Dalrymple
Family Shepherds by Vodie Bauchham Jr.
Deserting the King: The Book of Judges by David Beldman (Transformative Word Series)
Disciplines of a Godly Man by R. Kent Hughes
The Parables of Jesus by David Wenham
Tactics by Gregory Koukl
How To Teach The Tabernacle by David Gooding
Leviticus By Jay Sklar (TOTC)
ESV Expository Commentary on Daniel by Mitchell L. Chase     
Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland (Re-read)
Living Life Backwards by David Gibson (Re-read)
Between the Cross and the Throne by Matthew Emerson (Re-Read)


Top 5 Books – 2019
1- According to Luke by David Gooding
2- Who Shall Ascend the Mt. of the Lord by L. Michael Morales
3- Why Expository Preaching? By David Jackman
4- Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by G. K. Beale
5- Forsaken by Thomas H. McCall

Let's Talk Daniel

This week’s episode centers around a discussion of the Book of Daniel and six challenges to understanding it’s message.  The six challenges include:
1. Unfamiliarity with Daniel 7-12
2. Predictive Prophecy vs. Pseudo Prophecy
3. The Identity of the Four Kingdoms of Daniel 2 &7
4. The 70 7’s of Daniel 9
5. The “shift” from Daniel 11:35 to 11:36
6. The Resurrection of Daniel 12:2&7
 
Authors discussed include:
Peter J. Gentry
Mitchell L. Chase
Homer Hailey
Paul R. House
James E. Smith
Christopher J. H. Wright
 
Bad Guys:
John Goldingay
J. J. Collins

Family Shepherds by Vodie Baucham Jr. 

Today's episode contains a review of Vodie Baucham Jr.'s book Family Shepherds. Baucham's book serves as a primer on parenting with a focus on the role, work, and influence of fathers. We discuss pros, cons, strengths, weaknesses, and overall content.  Our review does not contain a full chapter-by-chapter breakdown, but it does discuss the major themes of the book. In our final assessment we give it a 6/10.

New Testament Surveys

New Testament Surveys
Today’s episode discusses New Testament Surveys on an introductory, intermediate, and advanced level.  Titles and authors discussed include:
 
Beginner’s Level:
New Testament Books Made Simple by James E. Smith(Two other volumes in this series include Old Testament History Made Simple and Old Testament Books Made Simple)
Heart of the New Testament by H. I. Hester
The New Testament Book by Book by Roy Cogdill
 
Intermediate Level:
Waldron Three Year Study Set
New Testament Commentary by Wayne Jackson
The Cradle, The Cross, and The Crown by Kostenberger, Kellum, and Quarrles
An Introduction to the New Testament by Carson and Moo
 
Mixed Bags:
Survey of the New Testament by Robert Gundry
Popular Survey of the New Testament by Norman Geisler
 
Individual Book Surveys:
God With Us: An Introduction to Matthew by D. A. Carson
Between the Cross and the Throne by Matthew Emerson (An Introduction to Revelation)
 
Advanced Surveys: New Testament Theologies
A Theology of Matthew by Charles Quarrells
The Acts of the Risen Lord Jesus by Allan J. Thompson
Theology of the Book of Revelation by Richard Bauckham
 
Bad Guys:  Raymond E. Brown and Bart Ehrman

Old Testament Surveys

Grasping the Big Picture of the Bible is crucial to sound exegesis.  We want to challenge listeners to place yearly emphasis on reading a survey of the Bible (be it an Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey, or Bible Survey) to not only aid in building their own knowledge of the Bible but to also help in teaching others the Bible's message.   Today's episode focuses exclusively on Old Testament surveys and does so by addressing four categories of books:  Introductory Surveys, Intermediate Surveys, Old Testament Theologies, and Theologies of Individual Books of the Old Testament.  Here is the list of titles discussed in today's episode:
Introductory Surveys:
Introduction to Biblical Studies by James E. Smith
The Heart of Hebrew History by H. I. Hester
A Popular Survey of the Old Testament by Norman Geisler
From Creation to the Day of Eternity by Homer Hailey
Haley's Bible Handbook

Intermediate Surveys:
What the Old Testament Authors Really Cared About by Jason DeRouchie
Old Testament Survey by Paul House
The Message of the Prophets by J. Daniel Hayes
The Faith of Israel by William J. Dumbrell
A Survey of the Old Testament - 5 Volume Set - by James E. Smith
Exploring the Old Testament Series by Various Authors (including Gordon J. Wenham)

Theology of the Old Testament:
Old Testament Theology by Bruce Waltke
Old Testament Theology by Paul House

Mixed Bags: 
Old Testament Theology by John Sailhamer
Theological Interpretation of the Old Testament by Kevin J. Vanhoozer
Bad Guys:
Old Testament Theology by John Goldingay
Old Testament Theology by Gerhard Von Rad
Theology of an Individual Book of the Old Testament:
Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord by Michael Morales (Theology of Leviticus)
Now Choose Life by J. Gary Millar (Theology of Deuteronomy)
Finding Favor in the Sight of God by Richard P. Belcher Jr. (Theology of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, & Job)

Books Everyone Owns But Nobody Reads

Today we discuss how people build their libraries and wind up with a lot of books that they don't read.  Beyond discussing individual books and sets found unused in most libraries we discuss issues of why the books were purchased and why they go unused.  We hope this episode will provide listeners with some insights into how to avoid making mistakes in building their libraries, challenge them to read more, and motivate some to finally get around to reading books that they have put off reading for years.

​Book Review: The Gospel According to Jonah: Salvation Through Judgment and Mercy by Bryan Estelle

Today’s episode provides a full length review of Bryan D. Estelle’s book Salvation Through Judgment and Mercy: The Gospel According to Jonah.  Pick up a copy in our bookstore HERE.  Along the way we discuss issues such as historical accuracy, structure, typology, parallelism, turning points, salvation, repentance, open theology, and regression.  Estelle’s book brings a neglected gem into the light and causes the reader to marvel at it grandeur.  Our hope is that our review will provoke our listeners to pick up a copy of this great resource and rediscover some forgotten truths in God’s Word.
Other Books Referenced include:
Jesus and Jonah by J. W. McGarvey
Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by G. K. Beale

A Primer on Exodus Commentaries

Today's episode introduces listeners to some commentaries on the Book of Exodus.  The list of commentaries discussed is by no means exhaustive, but there are some helpful points for those wishing to study this fascinating book of the Bible.  We begin with a discussion of why it is important to study Exodus, and we conclude with a specific look a J. A. Motyer's commentary on Exodus.
Commentaries Referenced:
Devotional Read:
Exodus: The Lord and His Pilgrims

Introductory/Moderate Read
Exodus by J. A. Motyer (Bible Speaks Today Series)
Exodus a Commentary by James E. Smith

More Critical Works:
Commentary on Exodus by Umberto Caussuto
A Commentary on Exodus by Duane Garrett (Kregel Exegetical Library)
New American Commentary on Exodus by Douglas Stuart 
Exodus by T. Desmond Alexander (Apollos Old Testament Commentary Series)
Exodus: A Mentor Commentary by John L. MacKay
Exodus by Bevard Childs (Old Testament Library Series)


Zechariah 4 and the Two Olive Trees

In todays episode I discuss some of my recent findings within the books of Revelation and Zechariah.  In Revelation 11:4 the Bible speaks of two witnesses who are represented as  two olive trees and two lampstands.  What is the meaning behind the symbolism of lampstands and olive trees?  The olive tree symbolism of Revelation 11:4 is taken from Zechariah 4, but merely acknowledging the borrowing does not explain the symbolism.  Join us as we discuss this fascinating piece of Biblical prophecy.
Books Referenced:
Zechariah: A Christian Interpretation by James E. Smith 
ESV Expository Commentary on Zechariah by Anthony Peterson

To download George Battey's series on the Book of Revelation go to: www.IndyChurchofChrist.com

Commentary Sets: Pros, Cons, and Controversies

In today’s episode we discuss the pros, cons, and controversies surrounding the use of commentary sets. Should we even use commentaries? Should we only use commentaries from a church of Christ background? Are commentary sets more helpful that individual commentaries? These and other questions are address and hopefully the answers provided are helpful.
Books that receive honorable mention include:
Between the Cross and the Throne by Matthew Emmerson
God With Us by D. A. Carson
The Lamb, the Woman, and the Dragon by Albertus Pieters
Worthy is the Lamb by Ray Summers
Contending For the Faith: Matthew by John M. Criswell
New International Greek Testament Commentary on Revelation by G. K. Beale
New International Commentary of the New Testament on Matthew by R. T. France

Episode #19: Book Review with Jamie Thomson: Genesis by Richard P. Belcher Jr.

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Jamie Thomson joins today’s episode to discuss Richard P. Belcher’s commentary on Genesis from the Focus on the Bible Commentary Series.  We discuss Belcher’s background, the purpose and focus of his commentary, the benefits and hang-ups of his work, and much more in this round-table discussion.
 
Pick up a copy in our bookstore: 
​
Other books mentioned in today’s episode include:
 
Finding Favor in the Sight of God by Richard P. Belcher Jr. (part of the New Studies in Biblical Theology Series)
Isaiah by Alan Harmon (part of the Focus on the Bible Commentary Series)
Joshua-2Kings by Dale Ralph Davis (part of the Focus on the Bible Commentary Series)
The New American Commentary on Genesis by Kenneth Mathews


Episode #18: Do YOu Know James E. Smith?

Today I want to introduce my listeners to one of my favorite authors: James E. Smith.  
If you are not familiar with Smith's writings it's time to get acquainted.  Smith is a prolific writer on the Old Testament who holds a high view of inspiration and conservative approach to Biblical interpretation.  

Most of the books discussed in today's episode can be found in our bookstore at ChristianResearcher.com and  include:
Biblical Protology
Introduction to Biblical Studies
Bible Survey
A Christian View of the Old Testament
Biblical Typology
The Promised Messiah
Exploring Mt. Zion
Is There Any Word From The Lord?
Biblical Prophetism
Which Books Belong in the Bible?

God's Law Our Compass (This is the one book Smith has written that I do not recommend).

Episode #17: Reading WIth Aaron Battey

In Part 2 of my interview with Aaron Battey we discuss reading goals, Bible reading plans, books that have had the greatest impact on his thinking (outside the Bible), books he recommends, study helps, tips, tools, and more.  If you haven’t checked out Aaron’s website be sure to take a look @ www.fiveminutebiblestudy.com .

Books discussed this week include:
I Don’t Have Enough Faith to be an Atheist by Norman Geisler and Frank Turek
Drawing Water From The Wells of Salvation by Doug Edwards
Introduction to Biblical Studies by James E. Smith
The Origin of the Bible by Philip Comfort
The Unfolding Mystery by Edmond Clowney
The Man Who Gave God an English Voice by David Teems

Episode #16: Interview with Aaron Battey: Learning From the Greats

Young aspiring evangelist Aaron Battey (a.k.a my brother) stopped in the studio today to discuss the training he has recently undergone with two evangelists in preparation for going into the field full-time..  In particular, reading assignments and tools that he was introduced to along the way. 

Episode #15: Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland - Reviewed

Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland is a fascinating book that challenges Christians to develop their intellectual mind for the glory of God.  We provide an in-depth review of the Pros and Cons to both provoke listeners to read the book and help equip them to avoid a few pitfalls they will encounter along the way. 
Other books referenced/recommended along the way include:
Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland (2nd edition)
The King Jesus Gospel by Scott McKnight
Debate Notes on Bible Classes by George F. Battey
A Weed in the Church by Scott T. Brown
God and Government by Lee M. Rogers
Civil Government by David Lipscomb
The Final Word by O. Palmer Robertson

Episode #14: Devotional vs. Intellectual Reading Strategies

What is the purpose of devotional reading?  Is devotional reading a valid practice?  Are there good materials to encourage devotional reading?  What is the main difference between devotional reading and intellectual reading?  What should be the main focus of intellectual reading? What are some good practices to follow when reading critically?  What challenges should you present to yourself when reading critically?  These and other great questions are discussed in today's episode.

​Books Recommendation in This Episode: (Hyperlinks provided)

Granville Tyler Workbooks
New Testament Questions by E. M. Zerr
Mrs. Lee’s Bible Stories
Psalms by the Day by Alec Motyer
The Parables by Simon J. Kistemaker
The Miracles by Simon J. Kistemaker
Mark: DoubleDay Bible Commentary by R. T. France

Episode #13: Leviticus Research

Today’s episode of the Been There Read That Podcast centers around commentaries on the book of Leviticus. While searching for a good commentary to provide a sound structure, big picture, and thorough introduction to Leviticus, Nathan discovered both positive components and problematic pitfalls in a number of commentaries. His research ultimately lead him to what will hopefully be a worthwhile commentary to add to any library.
Commentaries discussed in this episode include:
New International Commentary on Leviticus by Gordon J. Wenham
Leviticus, A Commentary by James E. Smith
Mentor Commentary: Leviticus by Robert Vasholz
Holiness to the Lord: A Guide to the Exposition of the Book of Leviticus by Allen P. Ross
Bible Speaks Today Commentary: Leviticus by Derek Tidball
New American Commentary: Leviticus by Mark F. Rooker
Tablets of Stone by John Reisinger
Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord by L. Michael Morales
Tyndale Old Testament Commentary: Leviticus by R. K. Harrison
Tyndale Old Testament Commentary: Leviticus by Jay Sklar

Episode #12: Bad Guys: Authors to Avoid

In this week's episode we provide a list of a "dirty dozen" dangerous authors to avoid when building your library.  Rather than merely naming the authors, we have also provided a brief discussion of the positions they hold that make them dangerous.  Our list includes:
John MacArthur
John Piper
John Stott
John Goldingay
Water Bruggemann
Robert Alter
Hugh Ross
C. John Collins
Julius Wellhausen
Steve Moyse
Don Preston
Edward Fudge


Recommended Reads:
Focus on the Bible Commentary: Genesis by Richard P. Belcher Jr.
The Gagging of God by D. A. Carson

Episode #11: Current Reads and More Reading Tips

In this week's episode we share a few more reading tips and discuss the following books that are on my current reading list:
The Spirit and the Word by J. C. Holloway
The Life of Christ by R. C. Foster
What the Old Testament Authors Really Cared About by Jason S. DeRouchie

Love Your God With All Your Mind by J. P. Moreland
Handbook to the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by G. K. Beale
From Paradise to the Promised Land by T. Desmond Alexander

1 & 2 Chronicles by Richard L. Pratt ( A Mentor Commentary)
2 Samuel by Dale Ralph Davis (Focus on the Bible Commentary Series)
Christ Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in 1+2 Samuel by Heath Thomas and J. D. Grear

Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes by Kenneth E. Bailey
Tyndale Commentary on 1 Corinthians by Thomas Schreiner 


Episode #10: Kingdom Come by Sam Storms - A Book Review

This week’s episode contains a review of Sam Storm’s book Kingdom Come.  We have attempted to present an unbiased view of the book while noting both its strengths and shortcomings.

Here are books that are recommended as alternative reads to particular areas of study presented within Storm’s work:
  • An alternative view to Storm’s position on Daniel’s 70 Weeks Prophecy:
  • Kingdom Through Covenant by Peter Gentry
 
  • Alternative to Storm’s positon on the Four Kingdoms of Daniel’s Prophecies:
  •  A Commentary on Daniel by Homer Hailey
  • Daniel by Jim McGuiggan
  • The Prophecy of Daniel by Edward J. Young
 
  • A better presentation of Matthew 24 from Storm’s point of view:
  • New International Commentary on Matthew by R. T. France
 
  • An alternative view to Storm’s position on Matthew 24:
  • Jesus and the Future by Andreas Kostenberger and Alexander Stewart
 
  • Better material on typology:
  • A Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by G. K. Beale
  • Typology in Scripture by Richard M. Davidson
 
  • Better material on Romans 11 and the “Future of Israel”:
  • Contending For The Faith Commentary on Romans by Alan Bonifey
 
  • Referenced material on the subjects of Hell and Eternal Punishment:
  • The Gagging of God by D. A. Carson

​Recommended Viewing:

An Evening of Eschatology: Premillennialism, Amillennialism, and Postmillennialism (available on YouTube)
The Anti-Christ by George Battey (available on ChristianLandmark.com)
The Mark of the Beast by George Battey (available on ChristianLandmark.com)

Episode #9: An Interview WIth George Battey on the Book of Revelation - Part 2

This week's episode centers around a discussion of books to avoid and obtain in studying the Book of Revelation.  Brother George Battey is in the process of writing his own commentary on the Book of Revelation and has done a ton of reading and research in the process.  We are thankful for his willingness to sit down with us and share some of the materials that he has found helpful.

Bad Authors To Avoid:
John Walvoord
Dwight Pentecost
John MacArthur
Clarence Larkin
Jerry Jenkins
Tim LaHaye
John Hagee
Don Preston
Max King
 
Introductory Recommendations:
The Woman the Lion and the Dragon by Albertus Pieters
The Returning King by Vern Poythress
Between the Cross and the Throne by Matthew Emerson
Kingdom Come by Sam Storms
A Case For Amillennialism by Kim Riddlebarger
 
Intermediate Recommendations:
The Triumph of the Lamb by Dennis Johnson
The Revelation of John a Narrative Commentary by James L. Resseguie
The Drama of Christianity by S. L. Morris
Behold the Revelation of Jesus Christ by James E. Smith
The Message of Revelation by Michael Wilcock
More Than Conquerors by William Hendriksen
ESV Expository Commentary on Revelation by Thomas R. Schreiner
The Expositor’s Bible on Revelation  by William Milligan
Lectures of the Apocalypse by William Milligan
 
Advanced Recommendations:
New International Greek Testament Commentary on Revelation by G. K. Beale
Revelation: A Shorter Commentary by G. K. Beale
A Theology of the Book of Revelation by Richard Bauckham
The Climax of Prophecy by Richard Bauckham
The Revelation of St. John by G. B. Caird
The Revelation of St. John by R. C. H. Lenski
The Pulpit Commentary on Revelation by Alfred Plummer

Episode #8: An Interview With George Battey on the Book of Revelation - Part 1

In today’s episode we have our first guest interview. Evangelist and author Brother George Battey (my father) joins us to discuss the Book of Revelation. Brother Battey is currently writing a commentary of the Book of Revelation and shares with us some helpful historical and theological information regarding this challenging book of the Bible. Topics discussed include:
  • The historical background of each of the major interpretive approaches to the Book of Revelation and their origins
  • Distinctions between Historical and Dispensational Premillennialism
  • Distinctions between Moderate and Full Preterism
  • Distinctions between Premillennial, Postmillennial, and Amillennial views of the Millennium
  • Authors to avoid in your studies
  • How the different interpretive approaches to Revelation have affected churches of Christ historical and which ones pose the greatest threats in the present. 
Be sure to join us again next week for part two of this interview where Brother George will review both helpful and problematic commentaries on the Book of Revelation.

Episode #7: Don't Waste Your Money

In this week's episode we discuss keys to building your library wisely on a budget. Tips include utilizing free books, selling books you don't use, knowing what a good price is for a book, how to assess a book you are not familiar with, how and where to find book reviews, and how to target/discover good books.

Books discussed in this episode includes:
The Preacher and His Work by Jack Meyer Sr.
Old Testament Commentary Survey by Tremper Longman III.
New Testament Commentary Survey by D. A. Carson

Episode #6: Reading Assignment, Sabbath,and Creation

Episode #6 discusses the pros and cons of the weekly reading assignment in T. Desmond Alexander’s book From Paradise to the Promised Land. Two issues that surfaced in the assignment were the concept of a corrupted creation through man’s fall and keeping the Sabbath ordinance of the Old Testament. Reading recommendations related to these two issues included:
Books Recommended:
God’s Good Earth by Jon Garvey

Sabbath Day or Lords Day by George Battey 

The Believer’s Sabbath by John G. Reisinger

The Sabbath and the Lord’s Day by H. M. Riggle

Seventh Day Adventism Renounced by D. M. Canright

​From Sabbath to Lord’s Day: A Biblical, Historical and Theological Investigation by D. A. Carson
Two other books discussed were:
Creation and Change by Douglas Kelley

​Seriously Dangerous Religion: What the Old Testament Really Says and Why it Matters by Iain Provan

Episode #5: Author Highlight: O. Palmer Robertson

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Today’s episode shines the spotlight on author O. Palmer Robertson.  Robertson’s major works are introduced and then a full review is given of his two best books.
Books Mentioned:
  • Christ of the Prophets
  • The Genesis of Sex
  • The Israel of God
  • The Christ of Wisdom
  • The Christ of the Covenants (not recommended)
  • The Current Justification Controversy (not recommended)
Books Reviewed:
  • The Final Word
  •  God’s People in the Wilderness

Episode #4: The Pentateuch, THe Garden, The Kingdom, and More

Episode #4 begins with some helpful reading practices, discusses last week's assigned reading, introduces some books that arrived in the mail, and opens a discussion topic on Calvinism.  The largest portion of the episode features a discussion of the high points from chapters 7 & 8 of T. Desmond Alexander's "From Paradise to the Promised Land".  Alexander's book is currently featured in the weekly reading assignments.  There are also brief reviews and introductions to "Kingdom Come" by Sam Storms, "Paul Through Mediterranean Eyes" by Kenneth E. Bailey, "Drawing Water From The Wells Of Salvation"Doug Edward, "Practicing Proverbs" by Richard Mayhue, "Jesus the Sage" by Ben Witherington, "Seriously Dangerous Religion" by Iain Provan, "Elect in the Son" by Robert Shank, and "The Gospel Plan of Salvation" by T. W. Brents.  If you have a favorite book to recommend on the topic of Calvinism, please send us the title and author's name to ChristianResearcher@gmail.com. ​

Episode #3: Reading GOals and Reviews

Today's episode features a discussion of New Year's resolution reading goals, reading strategies, a few brief reviews of Nathan's current reading material, and an invitation to join in a reading study through the Pentateuch.

Episode #2: Where we are Going

In today's episode we will discuss all of the different types of content you can expect to find in upcoming episodes including reading programs, book reviews, study recommendations, interviews, and much more.

Episode #1: Intro And Goals of the Podcast

Join us for our first episode and get to know us, our website (www.ChristianResearcher.com), and the goals we hope to accomplish through our podcast.  Our main goal is to promote Bible knowledge by offering encouragement pointing listeners toward helpful resources and techniques.  We're excited about this new endeavor and hope you will join us in our weekly journey.
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"The man who never reads will never be read; he who never quotes will never be quoted. He who will not use the thoughts of other men's brains proves that he has no brains of his own."  
                                                            - C. H. Spurgeon