Episode Overview:Welcome back to Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro, where hosts Ryan and Brian dive into the Bible, theology, and all things pertaining to the Christian faith. Recorded during Holy Week, this episode explores the story of Malchus, the servant of the high priest, and discusses encouraging trends in Christian faith globally. From historical insights to modern revivals, Ryan and Brian cover it all with their signature wit and wisdom.Timestamps & Topics:[00:00 - 03:30] Introduction and BanterRyan and Brian kick off with playful banter about Brian’s “conversion” to the word “pertaining.”Setting the scene: It’s Holy Week, recorded the day after Palm Sunday, with Easter approaching.[03:30 - 06:00] Holy Week ContextBrian shares his busy schedule as a pastor, preparing for a unique Maundy Thursday service and Easter celebrations.The episode will cover two main topics: a biblical reflection for Holy Week and a discussion on current trends in Christianity.[06:00 - 28:00] The Story of MalchusFocus on Malchus, the servant of the high priest, whose ear is cut off during Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane.Examination of the account across all four Gospels:Mark 14:47: An unnamed person cuts off the servant’s ear; Jesus rebukes the action (Mark 14:48).Matthew 26:50-51: Similar account, with Jesus saying, “All who draw the sword will die by the sword” (Matthew 26:52).Luke 22:49-51: Adds that Jesus heals the servant’s ear, still unnamed.John 18:10-11: Names the servant as Malchus and the disciple as Simon Peter; Jesus commands Peter to put away his sword.Discussion on why details differ:Traditional view: Later Gospels add details for verisimilitude.N.T. Wright’s perspective: Gospel writers interacted, emphasizing different aspects.Scholarly insights from Richard Bauckham’s book (Jesus and the Eyewitnesses):Anonymity in earlier Gospels (Mark, Matthew, Luke) may have protected early Christians, like Malchus, from persecution.Naming in John could indicate safety or recognition of Malchus as a believer.Theories suggest Malchus became a Christian after Jesus healed him, supported by early church traditions.Criteria for authenticity:Multiple attestation (all four Gospels include the story).Criterion of embarrassment (Peter’s rebuke reflects poorly on him, suggesting authenticity).Connection to Holy Week: Jesus’ call to avoid violence and embrace a “cruciform life” of sacrifice.[28:00 - 50:00] Resurgence of Christian FaithThree encouraging studies highlight a revival in Christianity:UK Bible Society Report (The Quiet Revival):Interview with Dr. Rhiannon McAleer, Director of Research.Church attendance in England and Wales has grown, especially among Gen Z.Stats: Young men’s attendance up from 4% to 21% (2018–present), young women from 3% to 12%.Quote from Dr. Rob Barward-Simmons: Church offers meaning amidst mental health struggles, loneliness, and loss of purpose.Barna Group Study (US):66% of U.S. adults report a personal commitment to Jesus, up 12% since 2021.Gen Z men show a 15% increase in commitment (2019–2025).David Kinnaman’s Faith for Exiles: “This is the clearest trend we’ve seen in more than a decade pointing to spiritual renewal.”Ryan Burge notes a plateau and slight decline in “nones” (religiously unaffiliated).Voice of the Martyrs Report...

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