Episode 13: What's Wrong with the Old Testament?!

In this episode, Matthew Wireman interviews Dr. Duane Garrett, a
former professor of his and current professor at Southern
Seminary in Old Testament, Hebrew, Old Testament exegesis, and
hermeneutics. Dr. Garrett shares his story of his journey to
faith and how he became an Old Testament professor. He addresses
the misconception of the God of the Old Testament being wrathful
while the God of the New Testament being gracious. He emphasizes
that wrath is seen in the New Testament as well, and that both
testaments must be kept in balance.


The conversation then delves into the complexities of Old
Testament scripture in relation to modern Christian beliefs. Dr.
Garrett points out that it is often easier to slide into
heterodoxy when it comes to Old Testament studies due to a lack
of hard limits when compared to New Testament studies. He then
discusses the "Frankenstein Hypothesis", which discusses the
documentary hypothesis and its problems. Dr. Garrett also
explains that the Proverbs are general truths, and that although
they are generally true, there may be exceptions to them.


The conversation then shifts to the two focuses in the Old
Testament: the election of Israel and the way God has structured
the world. Dr. Garrett explains that the election of Israel is
focused on God's covenant with them and their mission to
reconcile the world to God, while the wisdom literature focuses
on living a good life in this world by following the rules of God
that are built into creation.


Regarding the law, Dr. Garrett explains that the law was given to
Israel as a pedagogue in order to keep them in line as much as
possible until the coming of the Messiah. He further explains
that the law is still canonical for New Testament believers and
still teaches them, although there is a cultural gap between
ancient Israel and modern Western countries.


The episode ends with a reminder to share and keep growing and
going. This is a fascinating conversation for anyone interested
in theology and the practicality of Old Testament scripture in
modern Christian beliefs.


Thank you for listening! If you want to find out more about Matt
and how you can get coached toward your better self, visit
www.matthewwireman.com and check out his LinkedIn and Instagram
accounts @matt.wireman.