The Biblical Theme of Exile and Return

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Nicholas G. Piotrowski to discuss his book, Return from Exile and the Renewal of God’s People (Crossway). Throughout our conversation, Dr. Piotrowski unpacks the biblical theme of exile and return, demonstrating how it forms the central drama of Scripture—from Adam and Eve’s expulsion from Eden to the final restoration of God’s people in the new creation.

We explore how this theme echoes through the Psalms, the prophetic literature, and, most importantly, in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Dr. Piotrowski explains how Christ embodies the ultimate return from exile, fulfilling Israel’s hopes and opening the way for the church to experience renewal in the presence of God. We also discuss the implications of this theme for the mission of the church today, culminating in the final hope of God’s people dwelling with Him forever.

Join us as we trace this rich biblical-theological theme and consider how understanding exile and return shapes our reading of Scripture and our Christian walk.

Nicholas G. Piotrowski (PhD, Wheaton College) is the president of Indianapolis Theological Seminary where he also teaches hermeneutics and New Testament courses. His other books include In All the Scriptures and Matthew’s New David at the End of Exile.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 07:28 The Theme of Exile and Return
• 11:23 Why Is Exile and Return a Central Theme in Scripture
• 14:20 Exile and Return as the Bible’s Principal Theme
• 24:44 The Theme in the Psalms
• 29:29 Jesus’s Ministry as the Foreshocks of Return from Exile
• 35:02 Exilic Themes in the Ministry of Christ
• 44:19 The Mission of the Church and the Theme of Exile and Return
• 52:30 Coming Home
• 57:00 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Nicholas Piotrowski