Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the Christian world—but it’s also one of the most debated.
In this special Christmas episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven Gill, Jeremias Zuniga, and Andrew Herbst take a thoughtful, biblical look at the question: Should Christians celebrate Christmas?
The discussion explores the historical development of Christmas, common objections surrounding its origins, and—most importantly—how Scripture guides Christian worship, conscience, and liberty. Rather than approaching the topic polemically, the hosts aim to bring clarity, balance, and biblical grounding to a conversation that often generates more heat than light.
Whether you’ve celebrated Christmas your whole life, questioned it, or avoided it altogether, this episode invites believers to think carefully, biblically, and charitably about how Christ is honored.
Pre-order God's Kingship at https://publications.truthbook.co/godskingship
In this special launch episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew introduce God’s Kingship—the new companion volume developed alongside Semester 1 of the podcast.
Over the course of the semester, the hosts committed to writing essays that would parallel and expand upon each week’s discussion, resulting in a collection of forty-two essays tracing God’s kingship from Genesis through church history. In this conversation, they reflect on the vision behind the book, the decision to prioritize clarity and accessibility over exhaustive treatment, and the desire to create a resource valuable for students, pastors, teachers, and serious readers of Scripture.
Topics include the structure of the book, the balance between biblical theology and historical scholarship, the role of careful sourcing and footnoting, and the importance of engaging respectfully with both Apostolic and non-Apostolic scholarship. The hosts also discuss the significance of the cover design, the use of archaeological and historical evidence, and their hope that the book will serve as an entry point into deeper theological study rather than a final word on the subject.
This episode offers listeners a behind-the-scenes look at how God’s Kingship came together, why it exists, and how it is intended to be used—as a tool for learning, teaching, and continued conversation about the identity of Jesus Christ and the nature of God’s rule throughout Scripture.
In this bonus episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven and Andrew explore one of the most foundational disciplines in all theological study: hermeneutics—the principles and processes of interpreting Scripture. Drawing from years of classroom experience at Indiana Bible College, they discuss why every believer already uses a hermeneutic (whether they realize it or not), how interpretation shapes application, and why mishandling Scripture can lead even sincere readers toward serious error.
Key themes include the difference between faithful and harmful interpretive lenses, the importance of reading the New Testament through the Old, the danger of forcing Christological or allegorical meanings where the biblical authors did not place them, and the need for humility, context, and patience in studying God’s Word. The hosts also outline practical steps for better Bible reading—observation, correlation, interpretation, and application—and explain why preaching and teaching must stay rooted in the actual text rather than clever ideas or inspirational detours.
A timely and clarifying conversation for anyone who wants to handle Scripture with integrity, avoid common interpretive pitfalls, and grow in reading the Bible the way the apostles did. A valuable supplement to Semester 1 of God’s Kingship.
In this bonus episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Andrew and Jeremias step aside from the main semester arc to discuss a topic that affects every serious student of Scripture: how to engage the biblical languages wisely and fruitfully. Whether someone has formal training in Hebrew and Greek or has only used tools like concordances and interlinears, this conversation helps listeners understand both the benefits and the pitfalls of working with the original text.
Drawing from their academic backgrounds, the hosts explain how biblical languages can illuminate nuance, deepen confidence in translation, and sharpen a preacher’s understanding—while also stressing the importance of humility, context, and good hermeneutics. They discuss common mistakes (such as picking favorite definitions from a lexicon), the limitations of modern Hebrew/Greek for interpreting ancient forms, how grammatical features shape meaning, and why biblical languages are never meant to be mystical shortcuts to revelation.
The episode concludes by offering practical guidance: recommended tools, accessible starting points, trustworthy learning pathways, and examples of how even small steps—like learning the alphabet—can enrich one’s devotional and teaching life.
A thoughtful and encouraging bonus conversation reminding listeners that while biblical languages are valuable, God’s Word in faithful translation remains fully capable of forming, guiding, and transforming His people.
In this final episode of Semester 1, God’s Kingship, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew revisit some of the most commonly cited “Trinitarian proof texts” and walk through how these passages have been understood across Scripture, history, and scholarship. Designed as a quick-reference guide, this discussion brings clarity to verses frequently raised in theological debates—particularly Genesis 1:26, the baptism of Jesus, and the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19.
The hosts explore how Old Testament background, Hebrew grammar, and early Jewish thought shape these texts, explaining why neither Jesus nor the New Testament authors present them as evidence of a triune Godhead. They unpack the plural language of Genesis, the royal-anointing imagery behind Jesus’ baptism, and the apostolic application of the name of Jesus in the early church. Together, they demonstrate how the New Testament uses distinction language within the framework of covenant, kingship, and Christ’s mission—not as metaphysical statements about multiple divine persons.
Far from fueling argument, this episode offers listeners a charitable, text-centered approach to some of the most frequently misunderstood verses in modern theological discourse—closing the semester with clarity, depth, and renewed confidence in the biblical revelation of one God.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew explore one of the most frequently misunderstood themes in the New Testament: the Father & Son language surrounding Jesus Christ. Rather than reading these passages through later philosophical frameworks, the hosts return to Scripture itself—tracing how the Gospels and Epistles use “Son of God,” “Son of Man,” and “Father” to reveal Christ’s mission, identity, and role as the last Adam.
Key topics include Jesus’ high-priestly prayer in John 17, the meaning of distinction language in the Gethsemane prayers, Paul’s Adam/Christ comparisons in Romans and 1 Corinthians, and why oneness theology takes Scripture’s sonship terminology seriously rather than explaining it away. The discussion also unpacks the biblical pattern of the firstborn, the Son’s obedience as the fulfillment of covenant fidelity, and how God was “in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself.”
Along the way, the hosts address common Trinitarian objections, evaluate misunderstood proof texts, and show how the New Testament presents Jesus not as “God the Son,” but as the Son of God—God manifested in the flesh, the anointed King, and the obedient mediator who restores what Adam lost.
A foundational episode for understanding how the New Testament actually uses Father & Son language—and why it reinforces, rather than challenges, the oneness of God revealed in Jesus Christ.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew tackle a topic often discussed—but rarely defined well: theophanies, the “appearances of God” in Scripture. The hosts explore how the term has been used throughout church history, why careless definitions can distort our understanding of the Godhead, and how modern Christians often read Trinitarian assumptions back into the Old Testament.
They discuss the difference between biblical manifestations of God and later ideas of “pre-incarnate Christ,” highlight the theological dangers of mislabeling OT encounters, and show how a proper understanding of divine revelation protects the oneness and uniqueness of God. A crucial conversation for anyone wanting to handle Scripture faithfully and avoid importing foreign categories into the biblical text.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew trace the development of early church councils—from the First Council of Nicaea in 325 to the Second Nicaea centuries later—and how they reshaped Christian doctrine and worship.
The hosts examine how Constantine’s political ambitions intertwined with theological debates, leading to the formation of the Nicene Creed, the elevation of Mary, and eventually the veneration of saints and images. Along the way, they explore the Arian controversy, the role of the Filioque clause in dividing East and West, and the philosophical language that introduced categories foreign to Scripture.
This wide-ranging discussion highlights the danger of departing from biblical authority in favor of tradition and politics—showing how the councils that began as efforts for unity ultimately redefined the nature of God, the identity of Christ, and the practice of Christian faith.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew examine two of the most influential early church writers—Justin Martyr and Tertullian—and how their ideas marked a departure from the apostolic teaching of the Godhead.
Beginning with Justin Martyr’s synthesis of Greek philosophy and Christian faith, the hosts trace how concepts like the “unmoved mover” and hierarchical divinity shaped his understanding of God, Christ, and the Spirit. They then turn to Tertullian, whose writings introduced key philosophical terms—including “Trinity”—and reveal how Stoic materialism and Roman logic influenced his theology.
The discussion contrasts their ideas with the clear scriptural revelation of one God manifest in Christ, exploring how early philosophical compromise laid groundwork for later doctrinal shifts. A critical study in understanding where theology began to drift from its biblical foundation—and why returning to Scripture remains essential.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew step beyond the New Testament to explore how early church writers—from the first to the fourth century—understood and taught the Godhead. Focusing on figures like Ignatius, Noetus, Sabellius, and Tertullian, they trace the theological tensions that developed as the church moved toward the Council of Nicaea.
Key topics include the difference between scriptural monotheism and emerging Trinitarian formulations, the reliability of early sources, and how doctrines such as baptism and Christ’s identity were preserved or altered in the centuries following the apostles. The hosts examine how historical context, imperial power, and interpretation shaped the evolution of church doctrine—and why understanding this history matters for believers who hold Scripture as their highest authority.
A foundational discussion for anyone seeking to understand where the church’s teaching on the Godhead came from—and how it began to change.
In this episode, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew turn to the Book of Revelation to conclude their semester-long study of the Godhead. Rather than chasing speculation or modern eschatological trends, they center the discussion on the opening declaration: the revelation of Jesus Christ.
They explore Revelation’s deep dependence on the Old Testament—especially Daniel, Isaiah, and the prophets—and show how its imagery reveals Jesus as the Ancient of Days, the Son of Man, the Lamb, the King, and the Judge. Key topics include the blessing promised to its readers, the letters to the seven churches, the throne room scene, the unity of the One on the throne and the Lamb, the wrath and faithfulness of God, prophetic symbolism, the millennial reign, and the final vindication of the saints.
Far from being a book of confusion or fear, Revelation is presented as the culmination of covenant, kingship, and the ministry of the Son. The hosts show how its purpose is not to obscure Christ, but to unveil Him as Alpha and Omega—the fulfillment of all things.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew turn to the General Epistles—1 John, 1 Peter, and James—to explore how these letters reaffirm the revelation of the one true God revealed in Jesus Christ.
From John’s defense of Christ’s identity against false teachings to Peter’s vision of a royal priesthood and James’s call for faith proven by works, the hosts trace a unified theme: true fellowship with God is found only in Christ, the mediator and advocate for humanity. Together they examine key passages on sonship, obedience, and sanctification, clarifying how the Apostles upheld both the full humanity and full deity of Jesus.
The discussion also contrasts Apostolic understanding with later theological distortions, emphasizing that salvation calls believers not just to believe, but to be transformed. A powerful study showing how the General Epistles bring the story of divine kingship and covenant to its practical, lived conclusion.
In this bonus episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew step away from the main “God’s Kingship” series to answer questions from listeners. What Bibles do they carry and preach from? How should study Bibles and commentaries be used? And how can you evaluate whether a resource is trustworthy?
The discussion ranges from personal Bible preferences (Skyler, Allen, Thompson Chain, and more) to the importance of inerrancy, the pitfalls of redaction criticism, and the value of reading Scripture slowly and carefully. They also share practical tips for engaging with books written from different theological perspectives without compromising an Apostolic view of truth.
This Q&A highlights the tools and habits that help shape serious, faithful study of God’s Word.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew turn to the book of Hebrews—a text that richly ties together the themes of kingship, priesthood, and covenant. Beginning with the debated question of Pauline authorship, they outline the case for Hebrews as a sermon rooted in Paul’s theology and anchored in Old Testament scripture.
Key themes include Christ’s superiority over angels and Moses, His role as both high priest and sacrifice, and the fulfillment of Psalm 110 in the priesthood “after the order of Melchizedek.” The hosts trace how Hebrews emphasizes Christ as the mediator of a better covenant, established on better promises, and how the text admonishes believers not to fall away but to move on from foundational doctrines to maturity.
The conversation also explores the “cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 11, the call to endurance in Hebrews 12, and the ultimate hope of an unshakable kingdom. A crucial episode for understanding how Hebrews frames Jesus as King, Priest, and Savior—the culmination of God’s plan throughout scripture.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew turn to Paul—the apostle whose letters shape much of the church’s understanding of the Godhead. Beginning with his background as a Pharisee trained under Gamaliel and his dramatic conversion, they show how Paul’s grasp of the Old Testament saturates his writings.
Key themes include Paul’s comparison of Adam and Christ in Romans and Corinthians, his teaching on justification and the purpose of the law, and his Christological expositions in Philippians, Ephesians, and Colossians. The discussion highlights how Paul affirms continuity between the Old and New Testaments, confronts misconceptions about law and grace, and proclaims Jesus as both servant and exalted King.
Along the way, the hosts contrast Paul’s theology with later distortions, clarify how his writings resist both Judaizing and Hellenistic philosophies, and stress his central conviction: in Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and we are complete in Him.
In this episode of The Apostolic Classroom, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew explore how the book of Acts continues the story of God’s kingship revealed in the Gospels. Beginning with Pentecost, they trace the fulfillment of Old Testament promises through the outpouring of the Spirit, the anointing of God’s people, and the birth of the church.
Key themes include the connection between Sinai and Pentecost, the historicity of Acts and Luke’s reliability as a historian, Peter’s sermon and its Christological focus, and the extension of covenant promises from Israel to the Gentiles. Along the way, they highlight how Acts presents not novelty but fulfillment—the revelation of Jesus as both Lord and Christ, and the empowering of His people as citizens of His kingdom.
In this episode, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew continue Semester 1, God’s Kingship, by turning to the Gospels. The discussion begins with John 1:1 and the meaning of the Logos, exploring how Jesus is not “God the Son” but God revealed—the Word made flesh.
The hosts examine how each Gospel frames Christ’s identity: Matthew’s genealogy and fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant, Mark’s proclamation of Jesus as Messiah, Luke’s emphasis on the Spirit’s anointing, and John’s portrayal of the new creation. Key themes include Christ’s full humanity and divinity, the baptism of Jesus as an anointing rather than an example, and how kingship and sonship converge in the identity of the Son of God.
Along the way, they address common Trinitarian objections, clarify the biblical meaning of sonship, and show how the Gospels collectively affirm Jesus as God’s self-disclosure, the true King, and the mediator where heaven meets earth.
This week on The Apostolic Classroom, we turn to the Prophets—examining how their sermons, visions, and writings reveal the coming of the true King. From Isaiah’s temple vision to the child born in chapter 9, we trace the continuity of God’s covenant and kingship through Scripture.
We explore Isaiah’s prophecies, Ezekiel’s temple vision, and how the New Testament fulfills these themes in Jesus Christ.
In this pivotal episode, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew explore the Davidic Covenant and its foundational role in understanding the Godhead.
Tracing kingship from Abraham to David, they examine why David is called a man after God’s own heart, the nature of biblical sonship, and how the covenant promise of an eternal throne lays the groundwork for the identity of Jesus Christ.
Along the way, they address common objections, delve into biblical archaeology, and connect Psalm 2 to Christ’s baptism and coronation as King. A critical installment for grasping how Jesus is both Son of David and Son of God.
In this episode, Steven, Jeremias, and Andrew explore the kingship of God in the book of Exodus.
They contrast Yahweh’s authority with ancient Near Eastern views of gods and kings—especially Egypt’s deification of Pharaoh. Key topics include the spiritual symbolism of the plagues, God’s judgment on Egypt’s gods, the significance of Moses’ name, and the progression of Israel from a people to a nation under God’s name at Sinai.
The conversation also touches on modern misconceptions of worship and faith, showing how Exodus lays the theological groundwork for relationship, reverence, and obedience to the one true God.