Understanding the Spiritual Realm

Show Notes

In this episode, Dr. Merrill Greene from Kingswood University dives into demonology, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and how the Bible came together. He breaks down different types of evil spirits, how early Christians understood them, and the influence of books like Enoch. They also tackle internet myths about spiritual topics and explain why knowing real history matters. Dr. Greene shares insights on the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Nag Hammadi Library, clearing up common misunderstandings. The big takeaway? Think critically, do your research, and don’t fall for sensationalized takes on ancient texts and spiritual warfare.

Show Notes & Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & Music

Welcome listeners back after a long break

New Year’s resolution to do things Ryan enjoys

00:38 – Guest Introduction

Dr. Merrill Greene’s background and expertise

His work on the Dead Sea Scrolls, demonology, and spiritual phenomena

Discussion of his books: The Weirdness of God and Drunk in the Spirit

01:37 – What is Demonology?

Definition and study of demons

Different types of evil spirits in Second Temple Judaism

Why grad students choose niche topics like demonology

02:31 – Biblical Perspective on Evil Spirits

Skepticism and concerns about supernatural claims

Nuanced perspectives on the spiritual realm

Experiences with questionable spiritual teachings

Different categories of spiritual beings in the Bible

How different evil spirits were understood in Jesus’ time

07:51 – Jesus & the Early Christian Understanding of the Spiritual Realm

Genesis 6:1-4 and the Watchers

The Book of Enoch’s influence on Jewish thought

The difference between fallen angels and demons in Second Temple Judaism

Different books of Enoch and their origins

Only the Ethiopian Orthodox Church includes 1 Enoch in its canon

How different Christian traditions view extra-biblical texts

11:04 – Biblical Canons & Why Some Books Were Excluded

The formation of the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament

Differences in Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox canons

Why some books were considered valuable but not scripture

12:53 – The Dead Sea Scrolls: What Are They? Other Ancient Texts: The Nag Hammadi Library

Discovery in 1946-47 by a Bedouin shepherd

Composition and significance of the scrolls

Why it took decades to publish them and debunking conspiracy theories

Common misconceptions about extra-biblical texts

17:49 – How early Christians determined what was authoritative

Criteria for including or excluding books

The influence of Jewish traditions on Christian scripture

Why some texts were left out (e.g., pseudonymous authorship, theological issues)

19:04 – The Problem with Popular Internet Theology

The rise of misinformation about biblical texts

The importance of scholarly study vs. viral content

Final thoughts on approaching spiritual topics responsibly

Outro & Closing Remarks

Where to find Dr. Merrill Green’s work

Encouragement to study historical and biblical texts thoughtfully

Farewell and teaser for future episodes