11: Babel

In today’s episode, Dr. David Pocta and Hannah DeSouza journey through Genesis 10 and 11, dissecting the fascinating stories of Noah's sons' genealogy and the tale of the Tower of Babel. This exploration will deepen your understanding of these biblical narratives. 

David and Hannah examine Genesis 10, unraveling the genealogy of Noah's sons and the profound implications of the different languages spoken in their respective territories. As the focus shifts to Genesis 11, you’ll hear an exploration of the pivotal story of Babel, raising critical questions about human nature. Consider challenges to literal interpretations of the text and trace the history of all creation leading up to the promise of salvation through the nation of Israel. 

Topics Discussed: 

• The transition of the episode title from Empire to Babel for a deeper exploration of the narratives. 
• Exploration of the genealogy and implications of different languages in each of Noah's sons' territories. 
• The story of Babel in Genesis 11, and the questions it raises about human nature. 
• Questioning literal interpretations of the text  
• The history of creation and the concept of salvation through Israel. 
• The intersection of multiculturalism and Christian mission. 
• The influence of dominant cultures on church culture and the dangers of token diversity. 
• The destructive effects of cultural superiority. 
• The beauty of diversity reflected in global platforms like the United Nations and the Olympics, and even in the culinary world. 
• A sneak peek into the upcoming series, God's Nation Birth. 

Quotes: 

“This genealogy shows how the history of all creation is moving toward the history of this one people and this one man. For the sake of the one promise.” –Hannah DeSouza 

“We have to accept that there's something bigger going on here than a literal, at face value meaning. What is God trying to tell us?” –Dr. David Pocta  

“It makes sense that if God cares about his glory and kind of has that same passion in a way, that we also would reflect some of that in our own identity, bearing his image.” –Hannah DeSouza 

Links: 

Dr. David Pocta 

Hannah DeSouza 

Slideshow