S1 Ep 20: Dr. Mark Janzen
Fully Armed Podcast: A Deep Dive into Faith and Archeology with Dr. Mark Janzen and Aubrey McGowan
In a recent episode of the Fully Armed Podcast, host Chris Hennessee welcomed Dr. Mark Janzen, a professor of archeology and ancient history at Lipscomb University, alongside guest co host Aubrey McGowan. This enlightening conversation navigated through the intersection of faith, history, and science, touching on Dr. Janzen's career, archeological insights, and how these discoveries can deepen our understanding of the Bible.
The Journey of an Archeologist
Dr. Janzen shared his path from growing up in Peoria, Illinois, to becoming a professor and archeologist specializing in ancient Egyptian history. Initially studying biblical languages and considering pastoral ministry, his academic journey shifted when he took a course in archeology with renowned Egyptologist Dr. James Hoffmeier. Inspired, Dr. Janzen pursued further studies, including mastering hieroglyphs and conducting fieldwork in Egypt.
Digging into History: Archeological Work in Egypt
Dr. Janzen detailed his work at the Karnak Temple in Luxor, Egypt, one of the largest ancient temples ever built. His team focuses on epigraphy—the study of inscriptions and carvings—to digitally preserve the temple's walls for future generations. These inscriptions, etched thousands of years ago, provide valuable insights into ancient Egyptian culture and its potential intersections with biblical history.
One fascinating aspect Dr. Janzen highlighted was how archeology uncovers everyday life from millennia ago. For instance, texts from worker villages reveal surprisingly relatable moments, such as a request to borrow a dress—a glimpse into the humanity of ancient civilizations.
Connecting Archeology and Faith
The discussion explored how archeological findings can contextualize biblical events, particularly stories from the book of Exodus and Joshua. Dr. Janzen emphasized that while archeology rarely offers definitive proof, it provides evidence and cultural context that enrich our understanding of scripture. For example, he explained how ancient conquest narratives, like those in Joshua, often employed hyperbolic language to convey victory, aligning with literary norms of the time.
Dr. Janzen also addressed the limitations of archeology, cautioning against using it to "prove" the Bible, as it can lead to misinterpretations. Instead, he advocated for studying scripture carefully, with an emphasis on reading in context and consulting accurate translations like the ESV Archeology Study Bible.
Faith Through the Lens of History
A key takeaway from the episode was the role of faith in interpreting both archeology and scripture. Dr. Janzen shared how his work inspires humility and awe, especially when reflecting on the vast timeline of human history. He noted that even Jesus, during His time in Egypt as a child, would have seen the pyramids—already ancient by that time.
The conversation also delved into the importance of moving beyond surface-level Bible study. Aubrey McGowan echoed this sentiment, encouraging believers to transition from "milk to meat" in their spiritual growth by diving deeper into scripture and its historical context.
Lessons for Modern Discipleship
As the discussion wrapped up, the trio reflected on how archeology and theology can strengthen faith, particularly for younger generations. By equipping believers with historical context and tools to wrestle with challenging questions, they can foster a more resilient and informed faith.
Dr. Janzen’s work serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between faith and intellect, urging believers to love God with all their heart, soul, and mind. His insights challenge us to explore scripture not just as a spiritual guide but also as a rich historical document.
Conclusion
This episode of the Fully Armed Podcast provides a unique blend of history, faith, and archeology, offering listeners a deeper appreciation for the Bible and its cultural backdrop. Whether you're a history enthusiast or someone looking to strengthen your spiritual journey, Dr. Mark Janzen's insights are both thought-provoking and inspiring.
