Best Jeff Bates Podcasts (2025)

1
EP075: John 6:41-71: Being Drawn to Jesus by the Father 1:05:34

Play Pause

2h ago1:05:34

1:05:34

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the latter part of John 6, taking on the themes of forgiveness, the identity of Jesus, and the implications of his teachings on communion (they understand the concept of eating Jesus' flesh to be metaphorical for internalizing his teachings and life). They explore the complexities of forgiveness, and how this …

1
Episode 113 - Jeff Bryant 1:05:56

2d ago1:05:56

1:05:56

Jeff Bryant’s fire service career began in 2007 when he joined his small town volunteer fire department as a third-generation firefighter. He served a couple of suburban fire departments until 2014 when he was hired by the Aurora (IL) Fire Department. He is currently assigned to Central Station Truck 2.Bryant’s true passion lies in training and cul…

1
EP074: John 6:1-40: Eating the Bread from Heaven 1:00:41

1d ago1:00:41

1:00:41

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss two miracles recorded in John 6:1-40 (the feeding of the 5000 and Jesus' walking on the water), recommending that many who wanted Jesus to be a king misunderstood his primary concern that his followers become truly human in thought and action. The motivations behind seeking Jesus are noted as being complex and…

1
EP073: John 5:16-47: Honoring Both Father & Son 1:18:58

9d ago1:18:58

1:18:58

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the significance of Jesus' actions and speeches in John 5. The text leads them to discuss some of the necessary complexities of the Trinity, especially the relationship between the Father and the Son. They also talk about the role of good works in faith, noticing that the early church did not fear good works a…

1
EP072: Divine Council Discoveries: Chris and Heather’s Story 22:01

16d ago22:01

22:01

Mel sits down with Chris and Heather at the first DCW Conference in Indiana to discuss their journey and how Dr. Michael Heiser’s work has reshaped their understanding of Scripture. They reflect on the power of exploring divine council theology and cosmic geography to deepen faith and bring clarity to the biblical narrative.…

1
EP071: Q&A Session #4 1:00:30

23d ago1:00:30

1:00:30

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer six questions sent in by listeners: 1) Can a DCW track alongside Reformed theology? 2) What did “salvation” mean to an ancient reader of the OT? From what or whom or where were they were being “saved”? 3) If the Law of Moses was given as a concession for Israel to realign pagan practices towards Yahweh, why doe…

1
EP070: Q&A Session #3 59:06

30d ago59:06

59:06

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) What was the relationship between the human Jesus and his mother Mary during his earthly ministry? 2) What is the best argument against the thought that the divine council does not actually exist but is just a divine accommodation? 3) How does the grammar and syntax in Ge…

1
Episode 112 - Mitch Gourley 54:33

1M ago54:33

54:33

Mitch is a 3rd generation firefighter from Ontario, Canada.He has been on the job for over a decade and has merged my passion for fitness and firefighting to found Everyday Heroes, a platform that allows first responders to realize their true potential and prioritize their physical and mental health.He has felt firsthand how the job and life can pi…

1
EP069: Q&A Session #2 1:03:35

1M ago1:03:35

1:03:35

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) Is it proper to say that Christians worship two beings? Or are Jesus and the Father considered the same being? 2) Is Filipino tradition possibly similar to Chinese tradition when it comes to the worship of ancestors? 3) What exactly happens to my moral sins through Jesus’…

1
EP068: Behind Bars, Beyond Walls: A Journey into Prison Ministry 1:07:15

1M ago1:07:15

1:07:15

In this moving episode, Mel and Rich explore Rich’s powerful journey into prison ministry, shedding light on the challenges, faith, and transformation he encountered along the way. He and Mel discuss the role of faith, the value of vulnerable male relationships, and the deep need for community within and beyond prison walls. Listeners are inspired …

1
EP067: Q&A Session #1 55:44

2M ago55:44

55:44

In this episode, Ronn and Mike answer five questions sent in by listeners: 1) What are some DCW topics that could benefit from further scholarly attention? 2) Was Jacob's vow in Genesis 28:20 unique? 3) Was the mal’ak of Yahweh in the OT the pre-incarnate Jesus? 4) How should we understand human decision-making and God's sovereignty playing out tog…

1
EP066: John 5:1-15: Healing at the Pool of Bethesda 54:27

2M ago54:27

54:27

In this episode, Ronn Mike Chu discuss the man healed at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5:1-15). They describe how this story ultimately illustrates loyalty to the correct deity, as this pool had traditionally been understood to be dedicated to Asclepius, the Roman god of healing. Thus when Jesus cautioned the man to “sin no more” (5:14) he was warning…

1
Episode 111 - Julie Bates-Maves 1:15:58

2M ago1:15:58

1:15:58

Julie, LPC, PhD is a licensed professional counselor and professor of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. She specializes in treating trauma, substance use disorders, and resilience-building. She has a special interest in the mental health and well-being of first responders. She is a critical incident stress debr…

1
Episode 110 - Jacob Hillhouse 50:21

2M ago50:21

50:21

Jacob is a Lieutenant with the Cibolo Fire Department and has been proudly serving in the fire service for over 10 years. He’s passionate about leading with strong values, building deep relationships, and helping firefighters find purpose in their work. Jacob has been married for 7 years and is a proud dad of two kids. His family plays a huge role …

1
EP065: John 4:27-54: Jesus, Savior & Protector of the World 1:19:03

2M ago1:19:03

1:19:03

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the second half of John 4 (verses 27 through 54) which concludes the Samaritan woman narrative. They note how eternal life, which originally was linked to promises made to Israel, now becomes a promise for the entire world as any person places their loyalty in Jesus Christ. They investigate the meaning of “sav…

1
EP064: Divine Appointments and Deeper Truths 50:34

2M ago50:34

50:34

Mel, Rich, and Ronn unpack their experience at the Divine Council Worldview Conference, highlighting meaningful connections, diverse perspectives, and Spirit-led conversations. They dive into deep topics like the authority of Scripture, the role of the church fathers, and the centrality of atonement within the Divine Council framework. This episode…

1
EP063: John 4 & the Woman at the Well 1:17:20

3M ago1:17:20

1:17:20

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the story of the woman of Samaria in John chapter 4. They discuss the theological implications of faith and loyalty, responding to critiques of Matthew Bates' work on salvation. The conversation also describes the historical context of the relationship between Jews and Samaritans, highlighting the long-standin…

1
Episode 109 - The Growth Experience 51:01

3M ago51:01

51:01

THE GROWTH EXPERIENCE was born of a deep need among men for a deeper sense of connection, meaning and presence in an increasingly chaotic and lonely world. Many of the social, tribal and cultural institutions that used to support men have lost relevance and meaning in the digital age, yet healthy spaces for men to connect are needed more than ever…

1
EP062: Baptism, Purification, and Gentile Sanctification 1:23:41

3M ago1:23:41

1:23:41

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the various themes present in John 3:22-36: righteousness, sin, Jesus’ atonement, the significance of baptism, and the acceptance of Gentiles into the family of Abraham. Ronn particularly introduces his understanding of the Holy Spirit’s “sanctification” of Gentile communities in the upcoming Book of Acts, rec…

1
EP061: John 3:1-21: The Nicodemus Interview 1:40:30

3M ago1:40:30

1:40:30

In this episode, Ronn & Mike explore Nicodemus' interview with Jesus as recorded in John 3:1-21. They discuss the possiblew misconceptions surrounding the Mosaic law, the Jewish expectations of what a messiah would accomplish, the nature of Jesus' teachings, and the meaning behind the term 'born again.' The conversation highlights the historical co…

1
Episode 108 - Marcos Orozco 48:01

3M ago48:01

48:01

Marcos Orozco was born and raised in Texas and became passionate about fitness at the age of 12 when his Dad bought him his first gym membership. He played sports throughout high school and ran track for ASU (400m and 4x400m relay) where he got a Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science/Kinesiology. Marcos has been a career fireman for 17 years and ha…

1
EP060: Beyond the Silo: Michael Heiser’s Legacy and the Courage to Think Bigger 26:00

4M ago26:00

26:00

Recorded live at the DCW Conference in Indianapolis, Mel sits down with Jason Bostow, host of the Ring Them Bells podcast, for a powerful conversation on the legacy of Dr. Michael Heiser. They explore Heiser’s impact on biblical scholarship, the need for interdisciplinary boldness, and the personal stories inspiring Jason’s upcoming documentary.…

1
EP059: Interview w/Dr. Matthew Bates on "Beyond the Salvation Wars" 1:12:46

4M ago1:12:46

1:12:46

In this episode, Ronn & Mike welcome Dr. Matthew Bates back to the podcast to discuss his recently released book, Beyond the Salvation Wars. They discuss what the NT Greek word family of pistis indicates for how all peoples are to respond to the Gospel of King Jesus. They dive into the rifts between Protestants and Catholics, and the tensions among…

1
EP058: John 2:23-25: Does Faith Include Loyalty? 1:20:37

4M ago1:20:37

1:20:37

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss the final three verses of John 2. This short passage allows their conversation to develop at length the concepts of “belief" and “faith” in both the Old Testament (Hebrew, aman) and the New Testament (Greek, pisteou). The study details the implications of Jesus' understanding of belief and loyalty when it come…

1
EP057: John 2:13-22: Jesus & the Law 1:19:46

4M ago1:19:46

1:19:46

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss Jesus’ cleansing of the Temple in John 2:13-22. They use this opportunity to then talk through the complexities of the Old Testament law, its interpretation within evangelicalism, and the historical context of the temple's significance. Their discussion highlights how Jesus' fulfillment of the law is often mis…

1
Episode 107 - Andrew Pristach 1:21:04

4M ago1:21:04

1:21:04

Andrew Pristach is a 14 year firefighter, currently a Sergeant on a heavy rescue with the City of Spartanburg Fire Department in Upstate South Carolina. He is an instructor with the Mississippi State Fire Academy, a founding member of Dixie Firemanship, the owner of Tradesman Fire & Fabrication, and the co-designer of the Council Tool TD30 halligan…

1
Episode 106 - Nick Ledin 1:28:00

4M ago1:28:00

1:28:00

Nick Ledin is a Captain with Eau Claire (WI) Fire Department, currently assigned to Truck 8. Ledin has been a student of the job for 18 years and is a contributor to ‘Firefighter Rescue Survey’, was the former president of the Northland FOOLS, and is a board member of FireNuggets. He’s a technical committee member for NFPA 1700, was a former techni…

1
Episode 105 - Darren van Zandbergen 45:32

4M ago45:32

45:32

Darren was born and raised in a small town in Saskatchewan. With 25 years of experience in the fire service, he has taught and mentored at various level, always striving to pass on his knowledge and passion for the job. For the Past 16 years, Darren has been a proud member of Oakville Fire. He began as a training Officer, where he helped shape the …

1
EP056: From Skeptic to Storyteller: Jeff Lees on Faith, Art, and Reimagining the Image of God 1:04:31

5M ago1:04:31

1:04:31

In this episode of the Divine Council Worldview Podcast, Mel and Rich sit down with Jeff Lees to explore his remarkable journey from skepticism to a vibrant faith shaped by ministry, creativity, and the teachings of Dr. Michael Heiser. Jeff opens up about his time in youth ministry, his transition into art and toy design, and how these paths inters…

1
EP055: John 2:1-12: Exploring Jesus' Miracles 1:30:33

5M ago1:30:33

1:30:33

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the significance of Jesus’ first recorded miracle, his turning of water into wine at the wedding of Cana. They discuss the implications and nature of miracles in the context of faith to Yahweh, especially in context of John’s original audience which would have known that created divine beings could perform mir…

1
EP054: John 1:29-51: How Did Jesus "Take Away the Sin of the World"? 59:13

5M ago59:13

59:13

In this episode, Ronn and Mike discuss John 1:29-51, especially noting how Jesus would be the “lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (1:29). They begin by interpreting Old Testament “atonement” (Hebrew, kaphar) texts within their original context. They note how the practice of sacrifice across the ancient world was often accompanied by s…

1
EP053: John 1:19-28: How is Jesus "the Messiah"? 1:19:25

5M ago1:19:25

1:19:25

In this episode, Ronn and Mike study John 1:19-28, noting how John the Baptist’s story was pivotal in understanding Jesus’ identity. They discuss how John’s prophetic ministry faced resistance from Jewish leadership, how John’s practice of baptism functioned as an act of allegiance in early Christianity, and how the concept of a “messiah” (even "th…

1
Episode 104 - Bobby Reichardt 54:31

5M ago54:31

54:31

Born and raised in El Paso Texas, Bobby Reichardt began his fire service journey at West Valley Volunteer Fire Department at the age of 17 and left 14 years later at the rank of Captain. He currently serves as a Logistics Lieutenant with the El Paso Fire Department and is a licensed Paramedic. He holds a Masters degree in Public Safety Administrati…

1
Episode 103 - Joshua Graham 1:03:20

5M ago1:03:20

1:03:20

Josh Graham is a second-generation career firefighter with over a decade of experience in a large, fast-growing urban fire department in the Greater Toronto Area. In addition to his firefighting career, he has more than ten years of paramedic experience, having worked in both urban and rural settings.Josh spent two years in the Training Division as…

1
EP052: Thoughts and Reflections with the DCW Podcast Hosts 1:09:30

5M ago1:09:30

1:09:30

In this episode, Ronn, Mike, Mel, and Rich come back together as a podcasting team to reflect on a year's worth of episodes, adjustments, and hopes for the DCW, Dr. Heiser's legacy, the work of the Michael S. Heiser Foundation, and the glimmers of change within society at large. They talk about their thoughts and feelings on having lost Dr. Heiser …

1
EP051: John 1:2-18: Is Jesus a "Unique Deity"? 1:09:38

6M ago1:09:38

1:09:38

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore John 1:2-18. They consider John’s explanation of Jesus’ pre-existence, his role as co-creator with the God, the active role of disciples “taking” Jesus in becoming “children of God” (1:12), and the description of Jesus as “the only begotten” of God (1:14, 18). They explore the invisibility of the God of Israel…

1
EP050: Healing, Faith & The Unseen Realm: A Pastor’s Journey from Trauma to Transformation 1:37:21

6M ago1:37:21

1:37:21

In this episode, Rich and Mel sit down with Pastor Jeremy Keys from Calgary, Alberta, to explore his incredible journey from a traumatic childhood and struggles with addiction to a life transformed by faith. Jeremy shares how his experiences shaped his understanding of the gospel and the importance of family and community in healing. The conversati…

1
Episode 102 - Rob Thibert 49:23

6M ago49:23

49:23

Rob Thibert is an 18-year member of the Fire Service. Rob is the Deputy Fire Chief with the Minden Hills Fire Department in Ontario, Canada. Rob's leadership style is to lead from the front, aggressively progressing the department's tactics and succession all while keeping the safety of his crew in mind and always striving to leave the job better t…

1
EP049: John 1:1: Is Jesus God? 1:20:53

6M ago1:20:53

1:20:53

In this episode, Ronn and Mike begin their study of the Gospel of John, focusing specifically on its opening verse. They explore the Greek concept of logos, the apparent distinction between logos and theos, and the concept of the pre-existence of Jesus. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of understanding the relationship betwe…

1
EP048: Does Theos mean "God"? 1:08:49

6M ago1:08:49

1:08:49

In this episode, Ronn and Mike Chu discuss the meaning of the term “God” in the New Testament, especially noting the lexical movement between the words elohim and theos as Semitic and Greco-Roman languages developed over the centuries. The importance of this study will be reflected in the opening lines of John 1:1 and the identification of Jesus (“…

1
Episode 101 - Joey Scrivani 1:02:21

7M ago1:02:21

1:02:21

Joey is 34 years old and a happily married father of two young boys.After 10 years in the fire service, I was diagnosed with PTSD. My symptoms included panic attacks, disassociation, suicidal ideations, sleep issues, anxiety and depression. As I began my treatment, I found it lacking as the conventional treatment was aimed at giving pharmaceuticals…

1
EP047: Israel's Story from Genesis to John 1:15:22

7M ago1:15:22

1:15:22

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the transition from the book of Genesis to the Gospel of John, the next subject of study for this podcast. They recommend that the Bible's authority lies primarily in the overarching story it tells, and that for this reason we must know the background and context of any biblical book before studying it. Their …

1
EP046: Genesis 48-50 & Israel's Arrival in Egypt 1:39:40

7M ago1:39:40

1:39:40

In this episode, Ronn and Mike study the concluding chapters of Genesis. They begin by briefly overviewing the concept of biblical inspiration, anticipating that the poem of chapter 49 is likely the work of more than one person or even one era. They note Jacob’s curious mention of an elohim/mal’ak (48:15-16) who was responsible for the protection o…

1
Episode 100 - The MCP Team 1:04:09

7M ago1:04:09

1:04:09

To celebrate, the team comes together to talk all things MCP.Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradsheaMarketing: @m.pletzAdministration: @haileyfirefitPartnered with: @firefighternationhqBy Firefighting Podcast

1
Episode 99 - Gareth Lockhart 2:03:56

7M ago2:03:56

2:03:56

Gareth Lockhart is a career Firefighter and Acting Officer with over 14 years of experience in a medium-sized suburban department outside Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Gareth is best known for being a leader in driving successful lobbying of staffing, health & safety issues through political action as a union executive board member. He prese…

1
EP045: Genesis 45-47 & Joseph's Surprise 59:10

7M ago59:10

59:10

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore Joseph’s announcement to his brothers, appreciating how this kind of story makes us consider God’s involvement in human affairs. They recommend, in the end, that a Divine Council worldview plays an important and unique role in working through the complex question of God's sovereignty and human freewill. Their …

1
EP044: Genesis 42-44 & Joseph's Rise to Power 56:57

7M ago56:57

56:57

In this episode, Ronn and Mike explore the significance of Joseph's actions which led to his release from Egyptian prison. Their conversation touches on the possible significance of the absence of Yahweh’s name in the narrative, as well as themes such as deception, emotional burden, transformation, and character development. The discussion highligh…

1
EP043: Part 1 - From Engineer to Provocative Podcaster: Dr. Michael Bennett on Truth, Media, and Spiritual Growth 1:39:36

8M ago1:39:36

1:39:36

In part 1 of this thought-provoking episode of the Divine Council Worldview Podcast, hosts Mel and Rich sit down with Dr. Michael Bennett, a trailblazer in technology, as well as provocative Christian podcasting. Together, they reflect on Bennett’s journey from engineer to host of the acclaimed FutureQuake radio show, sharing his unique experiences…

1
Episode 98 - Stephanie White 1:00:15

8M ago1:00:15

1:00:15

Stephanie White is a 21-year veteran of the fire service. She started her journey as a volunteer and has been a career firefighter/paramedic in Virginia for the past 19 years. Over her career she’s been actively involved in firefighter health and wellness while being assigned to some pretty great companies. She is currently enjoying the challenge t…

1
EP042: Genesis 40-41 & Joseph's Descent into Prison 58:26

8M ago58:26

58:26

In this episode Ronn and Mike explore the story of Joseph’s trials in prison, considering how his experience speaks to the universal experience of suffering. They discuss how Joseph's faith and character became evident in a situation which was not of his own doing. Their conversation also touches on the broader theological implications of suffering…