Today’s episode marks a new chapter in The Distracted Christian. While Nate continues writing Part Two of “The Dark Night of the Soul” by St. John of the Cross, the show shifts gears into a more conversational season — bringing in guest co-host Wes Scott, a longtime friend, theologian, and minister, to help carry the torch.
They begin with some light-hearted banter about life updates, work, pastoral ministry, and how coffee (and grace) hold it all together. As Wes joins the team, listeners get a glimpse into his background — from youth ministry and seminary studies at Southeastern, to a passion for helping believers understand and apply Scripture deeply.
The trio’s shared history stretches back to long “truck day” theology talks at a certain unnamed hobby retail store, where unloading semis turned into seminary on the loading dock. It’s a story of friendship forged through labor, laughter, and hours of Dr. Michael Heiser discussions.
☕ Coffee & Theology Segment
Today’s featured brew: Mystic Monk Coffee – Mystic Monk Blend (Dark Roast)
Roasted by Carmelite monks in Wyoming — with tasting notes of almond, caramel, dark berries, and cedar.
Nate shares how this monastic coffee connects beautifully with St. John of the Cross and the Carmelite tradition.
Wes admits his Folgers allegiance, which quickly becomes a running joke (and possibly a spiritual test of humility).
📖 Introducing Wes’ New Series: “The Strange Passages of Scripture”
Wes unveils his upcoming mini-series exploring the weird and wonderful corners of the Bible — passages we often skip but shouldn’t.
Using three interpretive methods — Grammatical-Historical, Canonical, and the Deuteronomy 32 / Divine Council Worldview — he explains how context, language, and spiritual reality intersect in God’s Word.
Key idea: “If it’s weird in the Bible, it’s probably important.” — Michael Heiser
From giants with extra toes to the cosmic backdrop of Yahweh’s rule, Wes plans to help listeners see how even the strangest texts point to God’s holiness and mercy — and how they still apply to our everyday faith.
📜 Example: Ruth and Proverbs 31 — The Woman of Strength
Wes walks through a fascinating canonical insight: in the Hebrew Tanakh, Ruth follows Proverbs.
The “woman of strength” in Proverbs 31 (ʾēšet ḥayil) uses the same Hebrew phrase found in Ruth 3:11 — where Boaz calls Ruth that very title.
This reveals Ruth as the living embodiment of the Proverbs 31 ideal — loyal, courageous, industrious, and kind — a reflection of the redeemed heart Christ calls His people to have.
🙏 Closing Prayer
The episode ends in reverence as Wes leads the Lord’s Prayer, followed by the Aaronic blessing:
“The Lord bless thee and keep thee… and give thee peace.”
It’s a fitting conclusion to a conversation that’s equal parts theological and pastoral — reminding us that even amidst distraction, God is faithful, and His Word is alive.
🧠 Highlights
Life updates & ministry balance Folgers vs. Mystic Monk: the eternal debate The importance of weird passages in Scripture How the Tanakh structure reveals deeper meaning Friendship, mentorship, and faith in the everyday grind The call to apply theology, not just study it
☕ Support & Connect
Visit freshgroundtheology.com for show notes, merch, and upcoming series info.
Grab a Distracted Christian mug or Saint Boniface tee — because coffee tastes better when theology’s on the cup.
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📚 Recommended Mentions & References
Michael Heiser – The Unseen Realm, Supernatural
Athanasius – On the Incarnation
Robert Cole – Canonical Interpretation (Southeastern Seminary)
St. John of the Cross – The Dark Night of the Soul
Mystic Monk Coffee – Carmelite Monastery, WY
Fresh Ground Theology 
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