Naked Bible Podcast Episode 169: Surviving and Thriving in Seminary: Conversation with Danny Zacharias and Ben Forrest

Ever thought about taking a seminary class? Getting a degree in biblical studies? Even if you haven’t and just want good advice on how to do biblical research on your own, you’ll want to listen in on this conversation. This episode of the podcast focuses on the book by Drs. Zacharias and Forrest, How to Survive and Thrive in Seminary. You’ll learn a lot about expert resources (some of them free) and some strategy hints for the serious study of Scripture.

The episode is now live.

In Episode 169 of the Naked Bible Podcast, Dr. Michael Heiser hosts a conversation with seminary professors Dr. Danny Zacharias and Dr. Ben Forrest, authors of Surviving and Thriving in Seminary. Whether you’re a prospective seminarian, current theology student, or a motivated layperson pursuing serious Bible study, this episode offers essential tools and encouragement.

Zacharias and Forrest share wisdom born from years of teaching, offering strategies for balancing seminary with life, family, ministry, and mental health. They address common seminary pitfalls, including burnout, performance anxiety, theological deconstruction, and disillusionment with academic or church structures.

The conversation also highlights key resources—from software and journals to language tools—and study techniques that can help any student of Scripture grow in understanding. Dr. Heiser contributes his own perspective on what seminary can (and can’t) do, emphasizing the importance of discipline, community, and calling in any serious pursuit of biblical studies.

Far from being an “insider-only” episode, this is a valuable guide for anyone who wants to build a healthy, informed, and enduring relationship with Scripture and theological study.