Michael Heiser, the Divine Council, and the Unseen Realm (Mike Chu) Ep. #271

This episode explores the life, scholarship, and theological legacy of biblical scholar Michael Heiser, best known for his work on the Divine Council worldview and the biblical unseen realm. Dru Johnson speaks with Mike Chu about Heiser’s academic background, his work with Logos Bible Software, his approach to critical and evangelical biblical scholarship, and the development of AWKNG School.The conversation examines what Heiser meant by the Divine Council worldview and why he believed the biblical authors understood the unseen realm as a genuine reality that interacts with the physical world. Mike Chu explains Heiser’s approach to passages involving the sons of God, Elohim, angels, demons, and the Divine Council, while also discussing how Heiser distinguished careful biblical scholarship from conspiracy theories and speculative interpretations.The episode also considers Heiser’s influence as a teacher and his commitment to helping people ask difficult questions about Scripture. Finally, the discussion turns to theosis, resurrection, Revelation, the new heavens and new earth, and Heiser’s understanding of humanity’s future participation in God’s divine council.The episode offers an accessible introduction to Michael Heiser’s scholarship, theology, and lasting influence on biblical studies.Check out AWKNG courses here: https://awkng.com/We are listener supported. Give to the cause here: https://hebraicthought.org/giveFor more articles: https://thebiblicalmind.org/Social Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HebraicThoughtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebraicthoughtThreads: https://www.threads.net/hebraicthoughtX: https://www.twitter.com/HebraicThoughtBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/hebraicthought.orgChapters:00:00 Introduction to Michael Heiser and his scholarship01:51 Heiser's background in Semitic languages and his journey to Logos03:55 Critical scholarship and evangelical faith in Heiser's work07:12 The divine counsel worldview explained10:04 Heiser's move to Florida and the founding of Awakening School12:01 Heiser's battle with cancer and his final message15:01 Heiser's personal qualities and impact on students17:59 Understanding angels and spiritual beings in Scripture21:03 The significance of the divine counsel for modern believers24:01 Heiser's nuanced approach to biblical interpretation26:55 The role of the divine council in eschatology and the future30:05 Heiser's influence on biblical scholarship and popular theology35:13 The legacy of Michael Heiser and ongoing influenceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.