What’s the real story behind the Old Testament? Is it just a collection of rules and wrath, or does it reveal a God of love and guidance? In this episode of A Case for Grace, we explore the misunderstood narratives of the Old Testament and discuss how its prophecies pave the way for Christ’s arrival. Learn about the jaw-dropping probabilities of biblical prophecies coming true, the deeper meaning of God’s laws, and how the Old Testament shows His care for humanity.

💡 Topics Covered:

-Is the Old Testament God punitive or loving?

-How God’s laws are guidelines for a better life

-The role of prophecy: Over 300 Old Testament predictions fulfilled

-Gideon, Ruth, and God’s love beyond borders

-The stunning odds of prophecy fulfillment explained with jellybeans

-Drop your thoughts below and comment “Jellybean” if you’re ready for an epic experiment in a future episode!

0:00 - Welcome to A Case for Grace

1:00 - What Is the Old Testament?

2:30 - The Misunderstood God of the Old Testament

5:00 - How God’s Laws Reflect His Love

7:30 - Comparing Biblical Laws to Parenting Guidelines

10:00 - Prophecies: Over 300 Fulfilled in Christ

12:00 - Gideon’s Story: Doubts and God’s Patience

14:30 - Ruth’s Role in Christ’s Lineage

16:00 - Statistical Odds of Prophecy Fulfillment

19:00 - The Jellybean Metaphor Explained

21:00 - The Message of Love Across Both Testaments

22:15 - Wrap-Up & Jellybean Experiment Teaser

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In this episode premier episode of A Case for Grace, we explore one of the most profound and challenging questions in faith: Why does God allow suffering? Is God punitive, or is there a deeper design at play? Hosts Kate Gray and Jeff Slayter unpack the difference between a punitive view of God—where He enforces suffering as punishment—and the design law perspective, where God’s love and freedom shape our growth and healing.

We discuss scripture, the role of free will, and why trusting God’s plan can shift how we view hardship. Whether you’ve wrestled with doubts or are looking for clarity, this episode offers encouragement and hope for navigating life’s toughest questions.

0:00 - Welcome and Introduction to the Topic

1:20 - The Big Question: Why Does God Allow Suffering?

3:05 - The Punitive Lens: How We Misinterpret God’s Role

7:45 - Breaking Down the Design Law Perspective

10:15 - Scriptural Insights: Romans 8:28 and John 10:10

12:30 - How Our View of God Affects Our Daily Life

15:50 - Healing from Church Hurt and Misconceptions

18:40 - The Role of Free Will and Natural Consequences

22:10 - Avoiding Legalism and Embracing Grace

25:30 - Understanding the Spiritual Battle of Belief

29:00 - Why Relationship with God Matters Over Religion

31:15 - Final Takeaways: Trusting God’s Plan

33:10 - Conclusion and Next Steps for Listeners