7.138: Does God anoint presidents?

Enter the Bible hosts Kathryn Schifferdecker and Katie Langston discuss anointing with blood, its scriptural roots, and risks of modern misinterpretation.

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In our 138th episode of the Enter the Bible podcast, hosts Kathryn Schifferdecker and Katie Langston explore a listener’s question regarding the biblical practice of anointing with blood and its potential connection to current events.

They delve into the practice’s scriptural context, discussing its origins in the ordination of priests and the significance of blood in ancient rituals. The conversation highlights the dangers of misinterpreting scripture to fit contemporary narratives, emphasizing the importance of understanding the Bible in context. The hosts also reflect on the nature of faith in uncertain times and the responsibility of discerning leadership based on the fruits of the leader’s actions.

Original question submitted:

“Where in Scripture does it mention that anointing the ear with blood is a practice instituted by God?”

Additional Information and References

Today's Episode Hosted By

Kathryn Schifferdecker Luther Seminary headshot

Kathryn Schifferdecker

Katie Langston

Katie Langston

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Hosted By:

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Kathryn M. Schifferdecker

Kathryn M Schifferdecker came to Luther Seminary as an assistant professor of Old Testament in 2006. Ordained in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America in 2001, Schifferdecker was associate pastor for five years at Trinity Lutheran Church, Arkdale, Wisc., before coming to Luther. Schifferdecker is a frequent contributor to workingpreacher.org, Word & World and the author of Out of the Whirlwind: Creation Theology in the Book of Job (Harvard University Press, 2008). She is currently writing a commentary on the book of Esther.

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Katie Langston

Katie Langston is a doubter by nature and a believer by grace. She grew up Mormon in a small Utah town and still isn't sure she fits in anywhere sophisticated enough to have a Target. She's the author of Sealed: An Unexpected Journey into the Heart of Grace, an acclaimed spiritual memoir about her conversion to orthodox Christianity. Katie works as the director of digital strategy for Luther Seminary's innovation team, where she oversees digital projects aimed at cultivating vibrant Christian spirituality in a post-modern, post-Christian cultural context.

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