HeBelieved Episode 2: The Power of Story

In this episode, we explore why we are "all about the story." While modern Christianity is often defined by Systematic Theology (ST), we look at why the narrative of Scripture is the primary way we are meant to encounter God and shape our worldview.

Key Discussion Points

• Systematic Theology vs. Narrative: ST is a human response to Scripture—a helpful tool for defining orthodoxy, but a human construct nonetheless. We discuss the risks of elevating "systems" to the level of the text itself.
• The Modernist Trap: How the Enlightenment shifted our focus toward scientific dissection of God rather than experiencing the story He told.
• Worldview and the Heart: A worldview isn't just an intellectual exercise; it is a "heart commitment" that connects our limited, physical experience to the transcendent Creator.
• The Goal of the Narrative: Scripture explains how we came to be, why we are here, and where we are going. It isn’t a textbook; it’s a story that shapes our reality.

Resources Mentioned

• The Literature of the Bible by Leland Ryken
• The Art of Biblical Narrative by Robert Alter
• Poetics and Interpretation of Biblical Narrative by Adele Berlin

Summary

Scripture is story, and story is powerful. While Systematic Theology is a helpful tool for defining orthodox limits, we must be careful not to let it replace the narrative as the Bible presents itself. Ultimately, the story of Scripture is intended to shape our own stories and our relationship with the Creator.

In this opening episode of He Believed, Dennis and Levi introduce the heart behind the podcast: trusting the LORD as Abraham did and exploring the grand story of Scripture together. Dennis shares his passion for understanding and teaching the biblical narrative, while Levi joins the conversation with growing curiosity and a willingness to handle the technical side of things.

This podcast exists to help listeners grow in knowing Jesus, primarily by learning to read the Bible with greater clarity and awareness of its overarching story. Rather than beginning with theological systems or denominational grids, we aim to start where Scripture presents itself—as a narrative centered on God’s covenant with Abraham, the history of Israel, and the fulfillment of that promise in the Jewish Messiah.

As Gentiles grafted into Israel’s olive tree (Romans 11), we believe the story cannot be understood apart from its Jewish foundation. Drawing from Genesis 15:6 and Luke 24, we reflect on the central theme of belief—trusting what the LORD has spoken—as the key to entering and understanding the story.

This episode lays the groundwork for where we’re headed and why the narrative of Scripture matters for all who believe.