Reformed Forum

General Assemblies, Rome, and Artificial Intelligence

Christ the Center — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this free-for-all episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Derrick Brite, Lee Hutchings, and Dan Borvan for a wide-ranging conversation following the summer season of Presbyterian and Reformed assemblies. They reflect on the PCA General Assembly, the OPC General Assembly, and the URCNA Synod, considering overtures, church order, the spirit of deliberation, and the practical realities of Presbyterian polity.

The conversation also turns to Reformed witness in Italy, Roman Catholicism, and the need to speak the truth clearly and charitably. Camden previews upcoming discussions on Pope Leo XIV’s encyclical Magnifica Humanitas, Catholic social teaching, artificial intelligence, human dignity, and the need for a sound Reformed anthropology in an age of rapid technological change.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Borvan, Derrick Brite, Lee Hutchings

Meeting God in His Means of Grace

Christ the Center — Fri, 10 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode we speak with Harrison Perkins about his book Meeting God in His Means of Grace: How Word, Sacrament, and Prayer Help Us Encounter Christ. Perkins argues that the Christian life is fundamentally receptive: We do not invent our own paths to God but meet him where he has promised to be present and active for the good of his people.

The conversation explores the ordinary means of grace—Word, sacraments, and prayer—as Christ’s appointed instruments for strengthening faith, assuring believers, and shaping the church’s worship. Perkins discusses the reading and preaching of Scripture, baptism as a covenantal sign, the Lord’s Supper as communion with Christ and a foretaste of the marriage supper of the Lamb, prayer as a means Christ uses to sustain his people, and congregational worship as active participation before God rather than religious spectatorship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Harrison Perkins

More Lessons from the Eternal City

Camden M. Bucey — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 20:23:34 +0000

I was recently in Rome for a gathering of the Rome Scholars and Leaders Network, convened by the Reformanda Initiative, where I was invited to deliver two lectures. We met in a beautiful quarter of the old city near the Imperial Forums, the Trevi Fountain, and two of the Roman Catholic Church’s great universities, the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas and the Gregorian.

Rome does not keep its beauty behind glass. You can wander into almost any old church and find a Caravaggio in a side chapel or a Bernini in a piazza. You do not need a museum ticket to see great art. So much of it is simply there, throughout the city. It was a trip I will never forget.

Carl Trueman recently wrote of his own love of the city in First Things.[1] I appreciate his reflections, and I thought I would share some additional lessons I took away from my time in the eternal city. Together they point to a single conviction: for all its beauty, allure, and warmth toward outsiders like me, Rome cannot give the one thing its nickname suggests: eternal life. It is still a mission field, hungry for the gospel of God’s free grace.

The event was hosted at Breccia di Roma, an evangelical church, for a week of excellent lectures delivered over a near-constant wail of police and ambulance sirens. I had come down to the city with an Italian minister, after preaching at his church in Umbria. I arrived knowing only a few of the scholars gathered there, and those only through their books and podcasts, though I left counting many of them friends.

During one of the sessions, Leonardo De Chirico led us through Leo XIV’s recent encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, the magisterium’s meditation on safeguarding the human person in this age of artificial intelligence.[2] For another session, we welcomed a Catholic priest from the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross to lecture on the relation of church and state (his answer would have scandalized many American Christian nationalists). One morning, on my walk to the church, I even ran into a Dominican theologian I had interviewed years before, and he invited me to join him to see the excavations under St. Peter’s. I have generally found Roman Catholic academics warm and inviting toward evangelicals; there is, it turns out, ample room even for a confessional Presbyterian.

I think I understand why that inclusion comes so easily. My doctoral study focused on Karl Rahner and the theology that remade Rome at the Second Vatican Council. Rahner saw every person as already oriented to grace, a supernatural existential written into the structure of the human, so that the sincere outsider may be an “anonymous Christian.”[3] The Council declared that the one Church of Christ “subsists in” the Catholic Church while acknowledging elements of grace beyond her visible bounds, and that the baptized who are not in communion with Rome are “separated brethren” rather than strangers.[4] Gaudium et Spes, which Leo XIV sets at the very head of his encyclical, teaches that “only in the mystery of the Word made flesh does the mystery of man truly become clear.”[5] This is a generous and confident vision, and it is exactly what makes the invitation so easy. A church certain that it already includes you, that your Protestantism is a deficient mode of its own fullness, has every reason to be warm and none to convert.

But there are no anonymous Christians. Salvation is not a hidden capacity every person already carries. It is given in covenant through the death and resurrection of the incarnate Son of God. It is an eschatological gift that comes as a result of a supernatural redemptive work in history. The “more than human” that transhumanism counterfeits, and that Leo XIV locates in a deifying union, is nothing less than the resurrection body given to those joined to the last Adam, who has become life-giving Spirit (1 Cor. 15:45).[6] It does not crown a nature already straining upward; it raises the dead. Leo XIV’s communion enables humans to transcend; the gospel raises sinners from death to life.

The gospel proclamation of Christ dying for sinners and being raised for their justification can go strangely unspoken amid the city’s celebrated beauty. It is certainly not neutral. Some of it catechizes precisely against the gospel we preach. There are altarpieces staging the triumph of the Mass over heresy, and a few steps from where we met, in the Chiesa del Gesù, a cherub cheerfully shreds books marked Luther and Calvin. Those Roman churches and their art were not built only to become museums. They were built to teach Catholic doctrine and to move the beholder into accepting it.[7] The form is indeed beautiful, but the beauty here is also an argument, and we cannot receive the one without reckoning with the other.

On my last night two evangelical missionaries took me to a small restaurant near one of their homes, a place they frequent often enough to know the owner and his staff by name. It played like a scene out of Fellini, and I half felt I was watching it from outside myself. While the owner regaled us in language that, as my friends quietly explained, far outran a sailor’s, his parrot did gymnastics in the corner. I have not laughed that hard in years. Trueman is right that evenings like this, good friends, good food, unhurried conversation, and the gratitude they awaken, are among the most humanizing things we are given, and I felt it deeply. For all its excitement, though, the night was never merely for entertainment. We were there to enjoy ourselves, and we did; but for these brothers la dolce vita was never an end in itself. It was subservient to the relationships they had established and the gospel they had come to share.

One of my friends nodded toward the young woman working the kitchen and called her a hero. She had endured a hard employer and a harder life, and still she persevered. It is one thing to enjoy the city for a week and then to move on. It is another to pack up a family and move there to minister to everyday people. He knew her story because he was there, week after week, human to human, for the sake of the gospel of God’s free grace, Christ crucified and raised for sinners. I was reminded that while I was enjoying the city as a tourist on a break from normal life, this was the missionary field my new friends have been cultivating moment by moment alongside faithful Italian brothers and sisters for years.

The first thing I had read on the English version of that restaurant’s menu, hours earlier, was a small phrase meant as a joke: “You shall have no other host beside me.” The animated restaurateur was referring to himself, but in this city the word carries additional weight. The “host,” of course, is also the Eucharistic bread lifted at the altar, and I suspect this irreverent line printed for a laugh meant more than he knew.

So much of Rome is beautiful, and the sweet life is wonderful. Rome offers much, but neither the city nor the Roman Catholic Church that crowns it can give what it does not have. The Italian people need what no piazza and no ornate basilica can finally supply: the good news that God justifies the ungodly. That is why my friends labor in Rome, and why more of us should join them, to plant churches, to train pastors, and yes, cultivating relationships long into the evening, so that Romans might have no other “host” but the one true God, no other mediator than the Lord Jesus Christ, and no other bread than his bread of life. I came home thinking less about the golden afternoons than about that crowded little kitchen, filled with several of the countless Romans whom God is still calling to himself, and to whom he sends laborers bearing the gospel. May he send many more to serve with his people there.

[1] Carl R. Trueman, “Lessons from the Eternal City,” First Things, March 19, 2026, https://firstthings.com/lessons-from-the-eternal-city/.

[2] Leo XIV, Magnifica Humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence (Vatican City: Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2026).

[3] Karl Rahner, Foundations of Christian Faith: An Introduction to the Idea of Christianity, trans. William V. Dych (New York: Crossroad, 1978); on the “anonymous Christian,” see Theological Investigations, vols. 5–6 (London: Darton, Longman & Todd, 1966–69).

[4] Second Vatican Council, Lumen Gentium §8, and Unitatis Redintegratio §3.

[5] Gaudium et Spes §22, cited at Magnifica Humanitas §1.

[6] Geerhardus Vos, The Pauline Eschatology (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 1930; repr. Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R, 1994), esp. chap. 8; cf. 1 Corinthians 15:42–49. On the deifying union Leo invokes, see Magnifica Humanitas §232.

[7] On the systematic coherence that makes Catholic theology a whole rather than a set of detachable parts, see Leonardo De Chirico, Same Words, Different Worlds: Do Roman Catholics and Evangelicals Believe the Same Gospel? (London: Apollos, 2021).

Lively Truths of the Puritans

Christ the Center — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey welcomes Stephen Yuille, director of Puritan publishing at Reformation Heritage Books, for a conversation on Puritan spirituality and the devotional series 90 Days with the Puritans. Yuille reflects on his work with Puritan writings, the relationship between the mind and the affections, and the way the Puritans seek to move biblical truth from mere cognition into doxology, repentance, obedience, and perseverance.

The discussion centers on five “lively truths” that recur throughout the Puritan tradition: the majesty of God, the beauty of Christ, the severity of sin, the mystery of providence, and the hope of glory. Along the way, Camden and Stephen consider biblical meditation, Thomas Manton, holiness as divine beauty, beholding Christ through Scripture rather than mysticism, affliction as fatherly discipline, and the believer’s blessed hope in the face of death and suffering.

Resources Mentioned

Participants: Camden Bucey, Stephen Yuille

Heaven Opened: Biblical Theology in the Gospels and Acts

Christ the Center — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey welcomes Adam York and Randy Lee back to the Reformed Forum classroom for the second part of a conversation on global theological education and OPC foreign missions. Whereas the previous discussion focused especially on Uganda and faith-centered finance, this episode turns to York’s recent teaching trip to Ethiopia and the biblical-theological material he taught on the Gospels and Acts.

The conversation traces major themes from John 1:51 and Jacob’s ladder to Matthew’s genealogy, Jesus as true Israel, the Sermon on the Mount, the parables of the kingdom, Peter’s confession, Matthew 24–25, the Great Commission, and the book of Acts. Along the way, York shows how the hope of heaven opened in Christ, the end of exile, the gift of the Spirit, and the church’s missionary calling all belong together in the unfolding work of the risen and ascended Lord.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

0:00 Introduction from the Reformed Forum classroom
0:57 Review of OPC foreign missions and the previous conversation
1:51 Focusing on Adam York’s Ethiopia teaching trip
3:32 Christianity and the Reformed church in Ethiopia
5:36 Ethiopian Mercy Reformed Church and local pastors
7:08 Joyful worship with few earthly comforts
9:09 Travel, Addis Ababa, and cross-cultural observations
10:35 Teaching the Gospels and Acts
11:20 John 1:51 and heaven opened in Christ
13:39 Why begin with Nathaniel and Jacob’s ladder?
15:24 Heaven, creation, exile, and the hope of God’s presence
18:47 Matthew’s genealogy and the fulfillment of Jubilee
21:02 Teaching biblical theology through translation
26:02 Jesus as true Israel in Matthew’s temptation narrative
30:21 The Sermon on the Mount and access to God’s presence
31:57 The Transfiguration and mountain theology
33:30 Parables, mystery, judgment, and the two-age structure
38:04 Peter’s confession and the keys of the kingdom
42:14 Matthew 24, partial preterism, and biblical prophecy
45:17 Watchfulness, imminence, and the blessed hope
47:25 Heaven opened, the Great Commission, and Christ’s authority
49:17 The Spirit, Acts, and embracing the cross
50:15 Teaching Acts while serving in Ethiopia
52:13 Praying and serving in foreign missions
53:31 Reformed Forum resources and upcoming events

Resources mentioned

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Randy Lee

Global Theological Education and the Biblical Foundations of Finance

Christ the Center — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey welcomes Randy Lee and Adam York from Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois, to discuss recent teaching trips connected with OPC foreign missions in Uganda and Ethiopia. Lee, a ruling elder, reflects on teaching personal finance at Knox School of Theology in Uganda, while York, pastor of Hope OPC, describes his work teaching and training pastors in Ethiopia.

The conversation explores the global need for theological education, Reformed Academy’s role in serving the church worldwide, and the biblical doctrine of stewardship. The discussion turns especially to Biblical principles of finance: why money must be brought under the lordship of Christ, how Scripture and the Reformed confessions shape our view of possessions, how prosperity theology distorts Christian hope, and why work, generosity, contentment, and vocation all belong to faithful stewardship before God.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

0:00 Introduction from the Reformed Academy classroom
0:39 Global theological education, Uganda, and Ethiopia
1:21 Prayer for Peter Stafford and missionary medical work
3:21 Reformed Academy and the global need for theological education
5:09 Randy Lee’s call to teach personal finance in Uganda
6:24 Adam York’s trip to Ethiopia
7:28 OPC foreign missions and theological training
10:58 Preparing to teach faith-centered finance
13:25 Randy’s business background
15:26 Biblical and practical resources for finance
18:21 Teaching finance and stewardship in the church
21:42 Stewardship beyond money
26:13 Reformed confessions and finance
29:11 Manifesting, prosperity theology, and biblical worldview
36:45 Five uses of money
40:14 Cultural differences and family obligations in Uganda
44:16 Need, want, generosity, and work
49:37 Lessons learned in Uganda
52:24 Opportunities to serve in foreign missions
53:47 Closing resources and Reformed Forum updates

Resources mentioned

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Randy Lee

Act Like a Man: Biblical Masculinity

Christ the Center — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0000

We welcome Matthew Adams, senior pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Dillon, South Carolina, to discuss his book Act Like a Man: Understanding the Biblical Call to Masculinity, published by Christian Focus. Adams argues for a vision of manhood grounded in Scripture and formed by the Holy Spirit rather than by cultural capitulation, reactionary posturing, or online personality-driven models of masculinity.

The conversation considers why the doctrine of Scripture and the work of the Spirit must come before any faithful account of biblical masculinity. Adams unfolds five marks of manhood—righteous living, sacrificial love, dependent leadership, courageous zeal, and humble servanthood—using David’s life as both a positive and negative example that ultimately points to Christ. The episode also addresses contemporary challenges in the church, the need for fathers and elders to disciple younger men, and the importance of presence, faithfulness, and generational responsibility in the home and covenant community.

Watch on YouTube

Resources mentioned

Act Like a Man: Understanding the Biblical Call to Masculinity by Matthew Adams
Christian Focus Publications
Reformed Forum Events
Reformed Academy

Participants: Camden Bucey, Matthew Adams

The Nature of the Church

Christ the Center — Fri, 29 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

We welcome Matthew Vogan to discuss The Nature of the Church by John Brown of Wamphray, a concise seventeenth-century work on Presbyterian ecclesiology republished by Grange Press. Brown, a Scottish Covenanter exiled to the Netherlands, wrote with deep conviction about Christ’s headship over the church, the visible and invisible church, church government, discipline, unity, and the distinction between church and state.

This conversation explores why Brown’s work remains timely for pastors, elders, seminarians, and church members today. Rather than treating church government as a secondary or merely practical matter, Brown presents the church as a visible spiritual society established by Christ, governed by his Word, and ordered for the edification of his people.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

0:00 Introduction
1:15 The Nature of the Church by John Brown of Wamphray
4:30 John Brown’s life, ministry, exile, and Covenanter context
8:40 Matthew Vogan’s introduction to John Brown
9:36 Brown’s 32 theses and the Westminster Confession
10:54 A majestic view of Christ’s church
12:33 The scope of Brown’s ecclesiology
15:12 The church as a visible spiritual society
21:43 Church and state under Christ’s authority
27:08 Scripture and Presbyterian church government
30:53 Brown’s polemics against Erastianism, prelacy, and independency
35:00 Ministerial authority and edification
39:17 The church’s spiritual government
42:14 The spirituality of the church
44:59 Key insights from Brown’s work
46:06 Communion within the visible catholic church
52:21 Further reading: Durham, Gillespie, Rutherford, and Bannerman
53:55 Final thoughts on The Nature of the Church
55:00 Scottish football and closing conversation
56:57 Reformed Forum resources and conclusion

Resources mentioned

Grange Press
The Nature of the Church by John Brown of Wamphray
Trinitarian Bible Society
Christ the Center 682: David Dickson’s Sermons on Lamentations

Participants: Camden Bucey, Matthew Vogan

John Calvin as Counselor: Pastoral Wisdom from His Letters

Christ the Center — Fri, 22 May 2026 12:40:46 +0000

We welcome Dr. Michael Mock to discuss his D.Min. dissertation on John Calvin’s pastoral counseling through his correspondence. Drawing from Calvin’s letters, Mock shows how the Reformer cared for people amid grief, anxiety, marital conflict, abuse, persecution, and suffering with theological depth and compassion.

The conversation challenges the caricature of Calvin as cold or detached, highlighting his attention to the whole person—mind, heart, and will—and his confidence in God’s providence, prayer, Scripture, and the ministry of the local church. Calvin’s letters reveal a model of soul care that remains deeply relevant for pastors, elders, and church members today.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction and guest welcome
2:01 Michael Mock’s D.Min. project and biblical counseling
4:37 Bringing Calvin and counseling together
9:49 Calvin’s letters in the Banner of Truth edition
14:11 Calvin as a suffering saint who needed counsel
17:42 Calvin’s ministry and the care of souls
23:18 Calvin’s doctrine of the heart and whole-person counsel
27:21 Answering caricatures of Calvin as cold-hearted
29:39 Prayer, suffering, and compassionate counsel
32:59 Counseling the martyrs in Lyon
35:39 Abuse, suffering, and Geneva’s consistory
42:01 Discipline, sympathy, and the company of pastors
44:24 The church as mother and the context for counsel
50:28 Whole-heart ministry and elder care today
57:28 If Calvin had time: counsel as pastoral ministry

Resources Mentioned

Participants: Camden Bucey, Michael Mock

Confessional Reformed Renewal in Germany

Christ the Center — Fri, 15 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this special on-location episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey visits Gießen, Germany, to explore a remarkable work of confessional Reformed renewal. Through conversations with Jochen Klautke, Lukas Strauß, and Philip Paul, listeners are introduced to the Academy for Reformed Theology, a growing seminary that serves students across German-speaking Europe through a hybrid model of in-person intensives, online instruction, and close partnership with local churches. The episode also traces the recent formation of a new continental Reformed denomination in Germany, the challenges of church planting in a highly secular and heavily taxed society, and the need for pastors who can preach, plant, and patiently build confessional churches from the ground up by God’s grace.

What emerges is a deeply encouraging portrait of ordinary, faithful labor. The conversation highlights the need for indigenous theological leadership, German-language Reformed resources, and strong ecclesial communities where believers are not left to grow in isolation. Lucas reflects on discovering Reformed theology and using podcasting and social media to introduce it to German listeners, while Philip describes the theological journey that led his family to move for the sake of a confessional church home. Taken together, these conversations offer a vivid glimpse into the opportunities and difficulties of gospel ministry in Germany today—and a compelling call to pray for theological training, church planting, and lasting Reformed witness.

Chapters

0:00 — Introduction from Gießen, Germany
3:36 — The Academy for Reformed Theology—history and mission
7:23 — How the seminary serves students across Germany and Switzerland
13:14 — Why part-time theological training matters in Germany
16:53 — A new confessional Reformed denomination in Germany
21:43 — What church planting requires: men, people, and finances
25:59 — How the seminary is funded and how students manage study and work
28:51 — Why Germany needs indigenous Reformed pastors and literature
34:53 — Bullinger, suffering, and providence
38:56 — Lukas Strauß on becoming Reformed and serving through media
49:18 — Podcasting, social media, and explaining Reformed theology in German
58:17 — Why Reformed believers in Germany need real church connection
1:02:23 — Philip Paul on law, theology, and moving for church
1:18:09 — From Calvinism to covenant theology and paedobaptism
1:32:46 — Elder service, church commitment, and counsel for German Christians
1:39:13 — Reasons for gratitude and prayer for Reformed churches in Germany

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jochen Klautke, Lukas Strauß, Philip Paul

Why Pastors Need Deep Theology and Real Friendship

Christ the Center — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Pastoral ministry requires more than competence, productivity, or weekly sermon preparation. It requires deep theological roots and the kind of real friendship that helps a man endure, grow, and remain faithful over time. In this conversation, Camden Bucey is joined by Derrick Brite and Sean Morris to explore why theological formation and pastoral brotherhood are essential for long-term ministry health.

Together, they reflect on the value of places like Twin Lakes Fellowship, the dangers of pastoral isolation, and the way meaningful friendships can provide encouragement, accountability, and spiritual strength. They also make the case that deep theology is not a luxury for academics or large churches, but a necessity for faithful ministry in every context. This episode is a reminder that pastors are not meant to serve alone, and that rich doctrine and honest friendship are two of God’s ordinary means for sustaining those called to shepherd his people.

Check out the Larger for Life podcast.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Twin Lakes recap
02:55 Pastors Scholars Fellowship and last year’s experiment
04:15 Chicago food banter, deep dish, beef, and regional cuisine
10:54 Why pastors need deep theology and real friendship
12:10 Reformed Forum updates, conference news, and the 1000th episode summit
18:03 Sean Morris on discovering Twin Lakes Fellowship
21:55 Derrick Brite on how Twin Lakes shaped his ministry path
25:01 What’s at stake when pastors become isolated
36:19 Ministry networking vs. real pastoral friendship
41:57 How pastoral friendships bless wives and families too
45:06 Theology, friendship, and sharpening one another in ministry
55:36 Why deep theology matters in rural and small-church contexts
1:08:46 Theology, worship, and why doctrine leads to doxology
1:09:48 Larger for Life, listener feedback, and closing remarks

Participants: Camden Bucey, Derrick Brite, Sean Morris

Planting Ordinary Means of Grace Churches: Trusting Christ to Build His Church

Christ the Center — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:21:19 +0000

In this episode, Camden Bucey speaks with Lee Hutchings and Ben Kappers about the work of planting churches according to the ordinary means of grace and learning to trust Christ to build his church. Drawing from their ministry experience in North Canton, Ohio, and St. George, Utah, they reflect on the challenges of church planting, the slow and often hidden nature of growth, and the need to rest not in novelty, personality, or technique, but in the ordinary means God has appointed.

Lee Hutchings serves as senior pastor of Trinity PCA in North Canton, Ohio, a congregation he planted after years of ministry in Mississippi. Ben Kappers serves All Saints Reformed Church in St. George, Utah, as an evangelist under the oversight of Northern California Presbytery, bringing experience from both the Reformed Church in America and the Presbyterian Church in America.

Together they offer pastoral wisdom on planting confessionally Reformed churches through the clear proclamation of Christ, the faithful teaching of Scripture, prayer, and the ordinary ministry of the church. This conversation encourages pastors, elders, and church members alike to labor patiently and confidently, knowing that the Lord is pleased to gather and strengthen his people through his appointed means.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
03:15 Twin Lakes Fellowship, encouragement, and ministry refreshment
08:20 Lee Hutchings’s Jackson years and his memorable film-extra story
13:10 Ben Kappers’s path from the RCA to the PCA
19:25 How the St. George and North Canton church plants began
29:40 Trusting Scripture and Christ rather than strategy or novelty
34:05 What ordinary means church planting looks like in practice
39:20 Slow growth, discouragement, and resisting church-growth pressure
46:35 Confessional identity, Mormon context, and knowing the people you serve
56:10 Planting for future generations and final encouragement

Participants: Ben Kappers, Camden Bucey, Lee Hutchings

Genesis 36:1–37:1 — A Directory of Earthly Inheritance

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Immediately after the death of Isaac in Genesis 35 we get a genealogy of Esau — an interruption, it seems, to the story of the patriarchs. Should you preach on a genealogy? Does it “preach” at all? In this episode we see how the story of Christ is found even in the genealogy of the ungodly line.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder

What Is a Presbyterian—and Why Does Presbyterian Government Matter?

Christ the Center — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

What is a Presbyterian? Is Presbyterianism merely a style of church government, or is it a coherent biblical and theological system? In this episode, we welcome Matthew Adams and Ben Ratliff for a lively conversation on Presbyterian identity, church government, and why polity still matters.

The discussion begins with Matt Adams’s article “Grassroots Presbyterianism ≠ Congregationalism” and expands into a broader exploration of Presbyterian ecclesiology. Along the way, the panel considers plurality and parity of elders, the role of presbyteries and general assemblies, the importance of connectionalism, and the ways accountability serves the peace, purity, and unity of the church.

They also reflect on differences in ecclesial culture among the PCA, OPC, and URCNA, discuss overtures and church courts, and offer practical encouragement for ordinary church members who want to be active, faithful Presbyterians in their local congregations.

Matthew Adams serves as Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Dillon, South Carolina. In addition to his pastoral ministry, Adams serves as a council member for the Gospel Reformation Network and co-hosts the podcast Larger for Life.

Ben Ratliff serves as Associate Pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, Mississippi. Ratliff is also a co-host of the podcast Polity Matters, where he helps lead conversations on Presbyterian polity and church government.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:49 Why Presbyterian government matters
03:12 Grassroots Presbyterianism is not congregationalism
08:56 Why the confusion persists
11:02 Different Presbyterian cultures: PCA, OPC, and URCNA
14:25 Overtures, church courts, and how change happens
22:27 What Presbyterianism is
25:50 Plurality, parity, and connectionalism
32:48 Accountability, freedom, and the well-being of the church
39:27 How church members can participate
48:36 Polity Matters, Larger for Life, and final thoughts

Participants: Ben Ratliff, Camden Bucey, Matt Adams

Who You Are in Christ—Identity, Purpose, and the Christian Life

Christ the Center — Fri, 06 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In a culture saturated with self-help strategies, identity politics, and the language of “manifesting,” where do Christians turn for a stable, coherent sense of self? On this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey sits down with pastor and author Justin N. Poythress to explore the deep theological roots of the identity crisis plaguing our age. Drawing from his new book, Who Am I? And What Am I Doing With My Life? Finding Stability and Purpose in Jesus (The Good Book Company), Poythress argues that only Christ can rightly function as our “master identity”—the organizing center beneath every role, relationship, and calling. Work, sexuality, politics, and even parenting all fail catastrophically when elevated to that ultimate position, because none of them can bear the weight of the human soul.

At the heart of the conversation lies a powerful biblical framework: we are in Christ while also being conformed to his image. Romans 8:29 declares that God predestined His people to be conformed to the image of His Son—a settled identity and a lifelong trajectory of growth. Poythress unpacks how 2 Corinthians 3:18 reframes the secular obsession with “manifesting” into the biblical practice of beholding Christ, the true mechanism of transformation. The episode also explores the church as a “thick community” designed for the kind of multi-dimensional, embodied relationships that curated online personas can never provide. For pastors, elders, and anyone seeking maturity in Christ, the takeaway is both liberating and compelling: the Christian life is a matter of becoming what you already are in Christ.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
08:50 Master and Sub-Identities
13:53 Identity as a Theological Issue
16:58 Romans 8:29
21:22 Manifesting vs. Beholding
28:09 The Means of Grace
32:19 Thick Communities
41:12 Authenticity
46:14 Work, Sexuality, and Politics as Functional Religions
51:12 Becoming What You Are in Christ
56:29 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Justin N. Poythress

Thy Word Is Truth: Scripture, God’s Nature, and the Worship that Follows

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Nick Bullock, senior pastor of Christ Church (PCA) in New Braunfels, Texas, joins Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy to discuss an upcoming conference themed “Thy Word is Truth” (February 27–March 1, 2026) and, more importantly, why a sturdy doctrine of Scripture is not a luxury but a necessity for the church. They explore how Scripture’s authority undergirds every other theological conversation, shaping how Christians understand God, worship him, and resist the many counterfeit “voices” that compete for allegiance.

The conversation also highlights a timely pastoral burden: weak views of Scripture often leave believers vulnerable—whether to “me-and-my-Bible” isolation (confusing sola with solo), or to the perceived stability of traditions that promise rootedness without delivering true unity. By reconnecting the doctrine of Scripture to the doctrine of God, the episode invites listeners to hear again the shepherd’s voice in God’s word and to respond with reverent, regulated, Christ-centered worship.

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Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:01:45 Ministry in Central Texas
00:10:03 Thy Word Is Truth Conference
00:17:18 Laying a Foundation on God’s Word
00:34:22 The Attributes of God and the Doctrine of Scripture
00:44:27 Mysticism and Apophaticism
00:49:38 The Sufficiency, Necessity, and Excellency of Scripture
00:53:44 The Regulative Principle of Worship
01:04:03 Conclusion

Ephesians 3:14–21 — For This Reason I Bow My Knees

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:00:00 +0000

The great Reformer, Martin Luther, once said that prayer is the breath of the soul. Christians pray! We are a people called to live and to walk in close fellowship and communion with our Savior and King. And as He speaks to us in his word, so we speak and enjoy fellowship with the Lord through prayer. In Eph 3:14–21, we see the Apostle Paul at prayer. What moves him to prayer? What sustains his prayer life? What does he pray for? What is Paul’s burden for the church? What is the Lord’s burden for you and for me? Join us as we listen in and learn from the great Apostle as he goes to the throne of grace to receive mercy and find grace to help in our time of need.

Participants: Mark A. Winder, Robert Arendale

Mark 2:1–12 — Healing from Sin

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

The story of the healing of the paralytic is a picture of God’s work of redemption through Jesus Christ. We are healed—saved—not because we merit favor, but because of the grace of God. Their faith is demonstrated by their works, but their works do not save them. True saving faith is an instrument of justification.

Participants: Jim Cassidy, Mark A. Winder

Highlights from 2025

Christ the Center — Fri, 26 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

As Christ the Center closes out another year of weekly theological conversation, this special episode reflects on God’s faithfulness throughout 2025 by revisiting the most-watched and most-listened-to episodes of the year. Drawing from YouTube engagement, Camden Bucey highlights ten conversations that resonated deeply with listeners—spanning biblical exegesis, redemptive-historical interpretation, Trinitarian theology, apologetics, and pastoral formation. Together, these clips showcase the breadth of Reformed Forum’s work: rigorous scholarship, confessional clarity, and a steady commitment to Christ-centered interpretation of Scripture.

The episode also celebrates significant ministry milestones: thousands of students served through Reformed Academy, international reading cohorts across six continents, new books published, and the largest theology conference in Reformed Forum’s history. Framed by the theme “Growing Together into Christ” (Ephesians 4:15–16), this highlights episode not only looks back with gratitude but looks forward with confidence—inviting listeners to partner in the ongoing work of theological education for the church worldwide.

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Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:00:57 Looking Forward to 2026
00:01:38 Growing Together into Christ
00:04:26 Top 10 Episodes of 2025
00:05:05 Greg Beale | The Use of the Old Testament in Colossians (YouTube)
00:08:59 Van Til Group #15 — A Critique of Mathison’s Toward a Reformed Apologetics (YouTube)
00:19:44 Robert Letham | The Holy Spirit (YouTube)
00:23:57 David Saxton | Biblical Meditation: God’s Battle Plan for the Mind (YouTube)
00:29:04 William Dennison | Van Til and the Problem of Evil (YouTube)
00:34:28 Danny Olinger | Meredith G. Kline’s Biblical-Theological Reading of the Book of Revelation (YouTube)
00:45:06 Marcus Mininger | Redemptive-Historical Interpretation (YouTube)
00:51:14 Vos Group #99 — Millennial Views and Modern Theories of the Kingdom (YouTube)
00:59:37 Marcus Mininger | Impossible to Be Restored? Temptation and Warning in the Epistle of Hebrews (YouTube)
01:14:02 J. Brandon Burks | The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials (YouTube)
01:19:38 Conclusion

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Danny Olinger, David Saxton, Greg Beale, J. Brandon Burks, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Marcus Mininger, Robert Letham

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Theology Simply Profound — Wed, 24 Dec 2025 11:00:00 +0000

For our Tenth Annual Christmas Special, Rob and Bob are here to bring you Christmas cheer with our annual Christmas special silliness with a splash of seriousness.

More seriously, friends, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you. Thank you for listening to Theology Simply Profound. We very much appreciate your ongoing support.

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

Collaboration, Consensus, and Compromise: Lessons from the Westminster Assembly

Christ the Center — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this rich conversation, Camden Bucey sits down with Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn—historian, pastor, and professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte—to explore the remarkable work and enduring wisdom of the Westminster Assembly. Together, they discuss how the divines pursued theological clarity through collaboration, not compromise, and how their humility and respect shaped confessional standards that have guided the Reformed church for centuries.

Van Dixhoorn explains why the Westminster Confession should be seen as “a document with compromises, not a compromise document,” how its chapters differ in tone and theological armor, and what this teaches us about confessional fidelity today. The conversation also explores doctrinal preaching—how to preach theology without losing the text—and why confessions must unite rather than constantly be rewritten.

With warmth and clarity, Dr. Van Dixhoorn reminds us that Reformed unity is not built on uniformity, but on the shared pursuit of truth before the face of God.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Word & Deed Ministry
01:18 At the Reformation and Worship Conference
04:10 Introducing Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn and the Westminster Assembly
06:00 Consensus, Collaboration, and Compromise in the Assembly
09:30 The Process of Drafting the Westminster Standards
12:00 Respectful Debate and the Spirit of the Divines
19:30 Comparing the Westminster and Heidelberg Traditions
25:30 Confessional Revision, Study Committees, and Doctrinal Reports
33:00 Doctrinal Preaching: From Text to Theology
40:50 The Joy of Teaching and Ongoing Research on the Divines

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn

The Shape of Faithful Ministry: Doctrine and Confessional Integrity

Christ the Center — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this conversation from the Reformation and Worship Conference, Camden Bucey speaks with Dr. Jonathan Master, president of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, about the unshakable relationship between doctrine and life. Drawing on J. Gresham Machen’s insight that Christianity for Paul was not only a life but also a doctrine—and logically, the doctrine came first, Master reminds us that Christianity is irreducibly doctrinal. Without doctrine, there is no gospel.

They discuss Greenville’s pastoral training mission, the seminary’s remarkable 92% long-term ministry retention rate, and why theological integrity in vows, confessional subscription, and seminary education is essential for the health of Christ’s church. Master insists that doctrine is not a straitjacket—it’s the lifeblood of the church’s joy, sincerity, and freedom in Christ.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Conference Setting
02:00 Introducing Dr. Jonathan Master and Greenville Seminary
04:10 Doctrine Before Life: Machen’s Insight
08:30 Theological Integrity and Confessional Fidelity
12:40 Training Pastors for a Lifetime of Ministry
17:00 Why Christianity Is Irreducibly Doctrinal
21:15 Confessions as Gifts, Not Straitjackets
25:00 Doctrine That Shapes Life and Love
29:30 Seminary Education and Church Health
33:45 Closing Reflections on Faithful Ministry

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master

Why Fixed Truth and Faithful Worship Matter

Christ the Center — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Camden Bucey sits down with Carlton Wynne and Marc Harrington at the Reformation and Worship Conference hosted by Midway PCA in Powder Springs, Georgia. Together they reflect on the beauty and theological significance of Reformed worship—where form and content work together to glorify God. The conversation explores how music shapes the soul, why pastors must think theologically about song selection, and how the unity and maturity of the church depend on maintaining the fixed truth of Scripture.

From discussions of Scott Aniol’s lecture on music that accords with sound doctrine to Wynne’s reflections on doctrinal immutability, the episode reminds us that worship is not mere performance—it’s the embodied response of the redeemed to the unchanging God. The conversation concludes with reflections on confessional fidelity, the training of pastors, and the importance of cultivating a love for Reformed unity grounded in truth.

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Chapters

00:07 Introduction
02:47 Introduction to the Reformation and Worship Conference
03:58 The Conference’s Heritage, Accessibility, and Scholarship
05:09 The Worship at the Conference (Hymns and Psalms)
06:32 A Variety of Conference Sessions and Speakers
07:21 Discussion of Scott Aniol’s Session on Music and Worship
08:14 Music that Accords with Sound Doctrine (Titus 2)
11:39 The Importance of Tune and Singability in Hymns
14:46 The Pastor’s Role in Music and the Worship Service as a Cohesive Unit
20:13 Carlton Wynne’s Breakout: Why the Church Must Maintain Fixed Truth
22:31 Why Truth Must Be Maintained (Confessionalism)
24:06 The Connection Between Fixed Truth and Faithful Worship
27:01 The Fixed Self in Christ and Eternal Life
30:00 Counsel from Dr. Godfrey: Be Reformed Unashamedly
31:07 Teaching the Westminster Standards to New Members
33:55 Using Confessions to Filter Music for Worship
37:34 Organizing Theology around the Westminster Confession of Faith
41:00 Teaching Redemption Accomplished vs. Redemption Applied
43:40 The Importance of the Regulative Principle of Worship
47:22 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Marc Harrington

From Doctrine to Doxology: Worship According to God’s Word

Christ the Center — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to worship God “with reverence and awe” (Heb. 12:28)? In this episode of Christ the Center, Dr. Camden Bucey speaks with Dr. David Hall and Dr. Carlton Wynne about the upcoming Reformation Worship Conference at Midway PCA (October 16–19, 2025). Together, they reflect on the regulative principle of worship, the unchanging truth of Scripture, and the ways God uses ordinary means of grace to sanctify his people.

Dr. Hall shares his journey into Reformed worship, highlighting how worship flows from every doctrinal locus—Christology, pneumatology, anthropology, and beyond. The discussion encourages believers to treasure reverence, resist shallow entertainment-driven services, and see worship as the very heart of discipleship.

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Chapters

00:07 Introduction
06:49 Confessing Unchanging Truth
13:55 Dr. Hall’s Background
20:46 Dr. Wynne’s Background
25:41 The Regulative Principle of Worship
33:56 Worship Offering a Sanctifying Influence
42:09 Trends in Worship Practices
46:44 The Directory for Public Worship
52:25 The Influence of the Wider Culture on the Church
59:19 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, David W. Hall

Ruth 2:14–23 — God’s Kindness to the Dead

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Sinners don’t deserve God’s kindness, but he raises those dead in sins and trespasses to life in Christ (Eph. 2). Hope rises from the dead in Naomi through Boaz’s kindness to her and Ruth. Join Mark and Andrew as they discuss how to preach or teach Ruth 2:14-23.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder

Reformed Confessionalism

Christ the Center — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

What role do historic confessions play in the life of the Church today—and why should we care?

In this episode we welcome Dr. D. Blair Smith, President and Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC and author of Reformed Confessionalism (P&R Publishing). We explore the theological, pastoral, and spiritual value of the Reformed confessions—not as artifacts of a bygone era, but as living instruments for the Church’s health and faithfulness.

From the Church Fathers to the Westminster Assembly, Dr. Smith draws out the continuity and vitality of confessional Christianity, highlighting how confessions serve as tools for Christian formation, doctrinal clarity, and ecclesial identity.

Topics include:

Why every church is a “confessing church”—whether it admits it or not
The relationship between Scripture and subordinate standards
How confessions function pastorally and devotionally
The dangers of doctrinal minimalism in the modern church
How Reformed confessions express catholicity, not sectarianism
Encouragement for pastors and churches seeking to recover confessional depth

Whether you’re a church leader, seminarian, or thoughtful layperson, this episode offers a compelling case for embracing confessionalism as a rich, living tradition that grounds the Church in biblical truth and historic continuity.

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Chapters

00:07 Introduction
05:21 Writing This Book
08:06 The Confessing Church
13:32 Promoting Unity
19:59 The Relationship between Confessions and Systematic Theologies
26:19 Challenges Facing Confessional Churches Today
31:50 For the Entire Church
36:02 Examples of How the Confessions Guide the Church
42:40 The Usefulness of Confessions for Church Planting and Revitalization
49:26 Conclusion

Participants: Blair Smith, Camden Bucey

Genesis 35:19–29 — The Weeping of Rachel

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Triple tragedies strike Jacob in chapter 35. The death of his beloved Rachel, his firstborn son’s violation reprehensible sin disqualifying him from leadership, and his father Esau’s death. Yet in the middle of this passage is a genealogy signifying the fact that God’s plan of redemption will continue. We learn how important it is to trace important events throughout Scripture, and see how the weeping of Rachel becomes a signpost pointing to God’s work of redemption through Christ.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder

Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life

Christ the Center — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

What does it mean to see work not as a curse but as part of God’s original design? In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey is joined by board member Mark Van Drunen to welcome David L. Bahnsen for a rich conversation about his new book, Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life.

Bahnsen is the founder, Managing Partner, and Chief Investment Officer of The Bahnsen Group, a private wealth management firm managing more than $4.5 billion in client assets. David is the author of Crisis of Responsibility: Our Cultural Addiction to Blame and How You Can Cure It, The Case for Dividend Growth: Investing in a Post-Crisis World, and There’s No Free Lunch, 250 Economic Truths.

Mark Van Drunen works in finance and is a ruling elder at Redeemer PCA in Hudson, Ohio. He serves on the Reformed Forum Board of Directors.

Together, they explore how a robustly Reformed view of vocation challenges the sacred–secular divide, recovers the dignity of labor, and reorients our understanding of productivity and flourishing. Drawing from Genesis 1, Reformed anthropology, and the legacy of Kuyper, Bahnsen argues that work is not a mere means to consumption or status, but an essential expression of our identity as image-bearers of God.

The discussion also addresses pressing contemporary questions—from the pitfalls of “work–life balance” and “follow your passion” mantras, to the theological problems with universal basic income and the cultural obsession with consumption. Listeners will be encouraged to see their daily labor as an act of worship, anticipating the greater work of the new creation secured in Christ.

This is a conversation at the intersection of theology, economics, and discipleship—aimed at helping Christians recover a biblically grounded vision for work that fosters maturity in Christ and glorifies God in every sphere of life.

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Chapters

00:00 Reformed Forum Conference Early Bird Rate
01:53 Introduction
08:18 Work Is Not a Curse
11:22 Working in Heaven?
17:10 The Meaning of the Title, Full-Time
21:57 Making Money and Gaining
24:49 Glorifying God at Work
28:10 The Bible and Economics
36:55 Universal Basic Income
41:11 Following Your Passion
47:39 Work and the Pulpit
51:03 Don’t Waste Your Life
55:12 If You Don’t Find Joy at Work
58:34 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Bahnsen, Mark Van Drunen

Biblical Meditation: God’s Battle Plan for the Mind

Christ the Center — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

David W. Saxton’s God’s Battle Plan for the Mind (Reformation Heritage Books, 2015) presents a compelling argument for recovering the lost art of biblical meditation, a discipline once central to Puritan piety and spiritual formation. Saxton argues that the modern church, though rich in theological resources and preaching, suffers from a superficial spirituality precisely because it has neglected meditation—a practice essential for transforming doctrinal knowledge into heartfelt godliness.

Drawing extensively from the Puritans and Scripture, Saxton defines biblical meditation as the intentional, sustained, and spiritual reflection on God’s Word. Unlike Eastern or mystical forms of meditation that promote mental emptying, biblical meditation involves filling the mind with divine truth, leading to spiritual transformation and godly living. The book is structured thematically, beginning with the importance of meditation, contrasting it with unbiblical forms, and moving through practical guidance on how to meditate—whether occasional or deliberate. It outlines occasions for meditation, offers advice on selecting subjects, and highlights both the benefits and the spiritual enemies of the practice. Saxton concludes with pastoral encouragement to begin and persist in this vital spiritual discipline.

Rev. Saxton is pastor of Cambridge Bible Church in Cambridge, Ohio.

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Chapters

00:00 Mid-America Center for Missions and Evangelism Conference
01:41 Introduction
06:06 The Background to This Book
10:08 Distinguishing Meditation from Prayer
14:58 Why the Practice of Meditation Has Been Lost
18:12 Retraining Our Minds to Delight in the Right Things
21:44 God’s Battle Plan for the Mind
25:22 Meditation as Essential to Spiritual Vitality
29:08 Practical Expectations
33:47 Steps to Beginning Effective Meditation
36:52 Occasional and Deliberate Meditation
42:37 Satan Especially Opposes Meditation
48:44 The Powerful Benefit of Meditation
53:15 The Spiritual Benefits of Meditation
59:10 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Saxton

Selecting Psalms and Hymns for Worship

Special Edition — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000

How should Reformed churches approach the selection of psalms and hymns for corporate worship? In this video, Camden Bucey offers a rich, pastoral, and practical guide for choosing music that reflects the theological and liturgical shape of a service. Drawing on years of ministry experience, Camden explains how to align musical selections with Scripture texts, sermon themes, and the redemptive-historical movement of the liturgy.

This talk goes beyond personal preference or musical taste. Learn how thoughtful hymnody and psalmody can serve the worship of the triune God by reinforcing Scripture, guiding the congregation’s response, and cultivating reverence, joy, and theological depth.

Key Topics

Theological principles guiding music selection
Aligning songs with the sermon text and liturgical moment
Balancing musical accessibility with doctrinal richness
The role of repetition, variety, and congregational familiarity
The emotional and redemptive-historical flow of a worship service
Special considerations for sacraments, transitions, and unique services

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Chapters

00:00 – Introduction and Context
01:15 – Why Song Selection Matters in Reformed Worship
02:45 – Letting the Sermon Text Guide the Service
05:23 – Matching Music with Liturgical Placement
07:16 – Knowing Your Congregation and Musicians
09:18 – The Role of Records and Repetition
13:28 – Attention to Tune, Tempo, and Emotional Tone
17:45 – Maintaining a Redemptive-Historical Flow of Worship
21:05 – Strategic Placement: The Post-Sermon Hymn
23:14 – Special Elements and Transitions
28:36 – Conclusion: Cohesive Worship for the Glory of God

Participants: Camden Bucey

Understanding Eastern Orthodoxy: A Reformed Introduction, Part 3 (Worship and the Sacraments)

Special Edition — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this final installment of our introductory series on Eastern Orthodoxy for Reformed Christians, Camden Bucey explores Orthodox worship and sacramental theology through a Reformed lens. This episode provides a careful and charitable overview of Eastern Orthodox liturgical practices, including the Divine Liturgy, veneration of icons, and the centrality of the Eucharist.

What makes Eastern Orthodox worship distinct? Why are icons and incense used? What theological principles undergird these practices? Camden discusses the symbolism of Eastern Orthodox worship while also addressing key doctrinal differences—especially concerning the second commandment, the regulative principle, and the doctrine of salvation.

Whether you’re a Reformed believer curious about the traditions of the East or seeking to understand why some are drawn to Orthodoxy’s mystery and aesthetic, this episode offers insight, clarity, and biblical reflection.

Series

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Chapters

00:00 – Introduction
00:26 – Worship and the Sacraments in Eastern Orthodoxy
01:49 – Theology of Liturgy and Participation
04:14 – Worship as Theology in Action
05:36 – Icons, Veneration, and the Second Commandment
10:02 – The Eucharist
14:09 – Reverence and Symbolism
15:33 – Prayers for the Dead
16:44 – Summary of Theological Differences
18:10 – Final Reflections

Participants: Camden Bucey

Samuel Miller’s Thoughts on Public Prayer

Christ the Center — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 12:57:47 +0000

In this episode Camden Bucey welcomes Dr. Jonathan Master, president of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and host of the new podcast Dead Presbyterians Society. Together, they reflect on the theology and practice of public prayer, drawing upon the insights of 19th-century Presbyterian theologian Samuel Miller and his underappreciated classic, Thoughts on Public Prayer.

The conversation addresses the enduring importance of prayer in the public ministry of the church. Dr. Master discusses why pastors must be both God’s mouthpiece to the people through preaching and the people’s mouthpiece to God through prayer. The episode includes a full episode of Dead Presbyterian Society, in which Master offers a deep and moving treatment of Miller’s work—highlighting frequent faults in public prayer, the characteristics of excellent prayer, and the secret devotional habits that sustain it.

Whether you’re a pastor, elder, seminarian, or thoughtful church member, this episode is a call to recover the dignity, order, and spiritual power of public prayer in Reformed worship.

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Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:53 Introducing Dead Presbyterians Society
00:21:22 Dead Presbyterians Society, Episode 5
00:47:28 The Relative Lack of Attention Given to Public Prayer
01:01:44 How to Grow in Public Prayer
01:06:05 Reading Books to Help Think More Biblically
01:08:30 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master

Ruth 2:1–13 — Why Me?

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0000

God begins to turn around Naomi’s life in Ruth 2:1-13, a picture of what he does for his church. Ruth ventures into the fields in faith and just “happens” to meet Boaz, who shows her unexpected kindness. Her response, “Why have I found favor?” is something Christians today have even more reason to echo.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder, Robert Arendale

Loving the Law

Christ the Center — Fri, 30 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Carlton Wynne are joined by Rev. Stephen Spinnenweber, author of Loving the Law: The Law of God in the Life of the Believer (Christian Focus), to explore the enduring significance of God’s moral law in the Christian life. They discuss the book’s development, its theological foundations, and its practical applications for pastors, congregants, and Christian parents.

The conversation clarifies the Reformed understanding of the threefold use of the law and addresses common misconceptions surrounding legalism and antinomianism. Stephen offers a pastoral and theologically rich vision for delighting in the law as a gracious guide for believers—one rooted in God’s character and purpose for humanity. The trio also touches on civil use of the law, the Sabbath, and the broader cultural and political implications of God’s moral order.

This episode is a refreshing call to recover a joyful obedience to God’s commandments—not as a means of earning salvation, but as the grateful response of those saved by grace and empowered by the Spirit.

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Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:10:32 Coming to this Project
00:18:40 The Choice of the Subtitle
00:20:39 The Law/Gospel Distinction
00:33:11 The Ceremonial, Civil, and Moral Law
00:39:29 God’s Law and the State
00:47:08 The Fourth Commandment and the State
00:51:44 The Spirit’s Working in Providing The Will and Ability to Obey
01:07:31 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Stephen Spinnenweber

Ephesians 3:1–13 — Paul’s Gospel Ministry

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 28 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

What does ‘mystery’ have to do with Paul’s ministry? Does it mean that Paul’s ministry is somehow mysterious? Does it mean that Paul’s ministry is difficult to understand? Not at all! Rather, Paul had the privilege of proclaiming the glorious ‘mystery of the gospel of Jesus Christ. But what does that mean? Join us for this episode of Proclaiming Christ as we consider Paul’s ministry, the mystery of the gospel, the unsearchable riches of Christ, and what this means for the church today.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder, Robert Arendale

The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials

Christ the Center — Fri, 16 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey welcomes Dr. J. Brandon Burks, pastor of Christ Reformed Church (URCNA) in Florence, Kentucky, to discuss his recent article published in The Confessional Presbyterian Journal (Vol. 20, 2024): “The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials: Living According to God’s Revealed Will.”

Together, they explore the theological context of the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692, uncovering how speculative theology and reliance on so-called “spectral evidence” reflected a deeper deviation from Scripture’s clarity and sufficiency. Dr. Burks outlines the influence of figures such as William Perkins, Cotton Mather, and Richard Baxter, while also shedding light on how the distinction between God’s secret and revealed will was tragically misunderstood.

The conversation goes beyond history, offering timely insights into contemporary fascination with mysticism, the spiritual dangers of neglecting the ordinary means of grace, and the need for biblically grounded theology in facing spiritual warfare today. They conclude by considering the value of a redemptive-historical and confessional framework in pastoral ministry and theological education.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
02:11 Academic Background and Church Planting in Kentucky
07:36 Van Til’s Theology of Christian Education
09:39 The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials
15:04 Speculative Theology
18:03 Williams Perkins’ Theology as a Basis
24:00 Covenants with the Devil
26:14 Devil’s Marks and Their Significance
29:52 Exploring the Explosion of Accusations in 1692
33:39 Debunking the Moldy Bread Theory
35:29 The Influence of Samuel Parris
39:21 The Dangers of Speculative Theology
44:26 Balancing Awareness of the Spiritual Realm
50:33 Misunderstandings of the Salem Witch Trials
53:35 Further Reading and Resources on the Trials
58:07 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, J. Brandon Burks

The Swiss Reformation: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

Christ the Center — Fri, 09 May 2025 05:00:25 +0000

In this episode of Christ the Center, we’re joined by Kurt Vetterli, pastor of an ERKWB congregation in Basel, and Florian Weicken, pastor of an EPCEW congregation in Zürich, for a rich conversation on the legacy and ongoing work of the Swiss Reformation.

We begin with a guided historical survey of the Reformation in Zürich and Basel, highlighting key figures such as Huldrych Zwingli, Johannes Oecolampadius, and Heinrich Bullinger. From the Affair of the Sausages to the formation of the Second Helvetic Confession, we explore how these cities shaped the theology, worship, and church life of the broader Reformed tradition.

Turning to the present, Kurt and Florian share about their ministries in Switzerland today—what gospel ministry looks like in a post-Christian context, the challenges and encouragements they experience, and how the Reformation heritage still speaks into their work.

We conclude with a call to pray for the Reformed churches in Switzerland and to consider how listeners might support or participate in this important kingdom work.

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Chapters

00:07 Introduction
06:50 The Historical Context of the Swiss Reformation
21:01 Challenges Facing Confessional Swiss Churches Today
24:21 The Legacy of Zwingli in Zürich
30:33 The Reformation in Basel
39:25 Heinrich Bullinger in Zürich
44:25 The Second Helvetic Confession
47:45 The Loss of the Reformation in Switzerland
52:52 The Swiss Church’s Present Needs
57:16 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Florian Weicken, Kurt Vetterli

Ruth 1:6–22 — Turning the Bitter Sweet

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 07 May 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In Ruth 1, God brings back a wandering sheep in Naomi, showing us his grace and power. But Naomi still thinks God has dealt bitterly with her and defines herself as “Mara.” Join us as we discuss important preaching points in Ruth 1:6-22 and see how God turns sweet what sin has made bitter.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder, Robert Arendale

Larger for Life Takeover

Reformed Forum Live — Sat, 03 May 2025 10:33:39 +0000

In this conversation, Camden Bucey welcomes Matt Adams, Derrick Brite, and Stephen Spinnenweber. They reflect on their experiences at the Twin Lakes Fellowship and discuss the often-neglected Larger Catechism, its practical applications, and the value of humor in theological discussions.

Registration for the Reformed Forum Conference is now open. We mention the event, highlighting its expansion to accommodate more attendees.

The panelists discuss the Larger for Life podcast, focusing on its mission to make the Larger Catechism accessible and engaging for listeners. The conversation concludes with insights on future directions for both the podcast and the conference. In this engaging conversation, the participants explore various themes including the future of their band, the importance of catechism, personal projects like book writing and PhD studies, the significance of prison ministry, upcoming conferences, and the role of appearance in ministry. They share insights on how to dress appropriately for ministry and the impact of personal presentation on one’s effectiveness in preaching and teaching.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
03:03 Reflections on Twin Lakes Fellowship
05:58 Experiences and Insights from Twin Lakes
08:52 The Importance of Fellowship and Connection
12:05 Reformed Forum Conference Announcement
15:06 Exploring the Larger For Life Podcast
17:57 The Larger Catechism: A Deep Dive
21:07 Practical Applications of the Larger Catechism
23:56 Commentaries and Resources for the Larger Catechism
27:01 Humor and Theology in Conversations
29:59 Future Directions for the Podcast
37:16 The Future of the Band
39:24 The Importance of Catechism
40:49 Book Writing and Personal Projects
41:32 PhD Studies and Theological Contributions
43:49 Prison Ministry and Education
49:41 Upcoming Conferences and Events
51:14 Dressing for Ministry
01:01:23 The Role of Appearance in Ministry

Participants: Camden Bucey, Derrick Brite, Matt Adams, Stephen Spinnenweber

Ephesians 2:20–22 — A Firm Foundation

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

If you lived in the ancient city of Ephesus, the most majestic structure that you would see on a daily basis would be the temple to the pagan goddess, Artemis. By all earthly standards, this temple was a magnificent structure. But if you were to ask your Christian neighbor, “What is the greatest structure in Ephesus?” He would no doubt answer, “Why of course, it’s the church, the temple of the one, true, and living God. Let’s go to worship and you can see for yourself!” In Ephesians 2:20-22 the Apostle Paul describes the church as a holy temple in the Lord. In this episode of Proclaiming Christ, we consider the foundation, the materials, the builder, and the purpose of the grandest of all institutions, the church of the Lord Jesus Christ!

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder, Robert Arendale

Genesis 35:1–15 — The Return to Bethel

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In Genesis 35 we have the “and back again” portion of Jacob’s journey. He comes back to where he started. Jacob’s journey back to Bethel marks the end of a larger story that had begun two decades ago. Everything that happened in between is now culminating in this place as God speaks to Jacob. At long last Jacob keeps his promise and God reaffirmed his covenant to him, changing his name from Jacob to Israel. This signifies the initial stages of a kingdom over which God will rule.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder

Missions and Baseball in Germany

Reformed Forum Live — Sat, 05 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Reformed Forum Live, Camden Bucey speaks with Stephen Spanjer, a PCA minister serving in Neuenberg, Germany, with the Evangelical Reformed Church Westminster Confession (ERKWB). Stephen shares his fascinating journey of connecting Reformed theology, church planting, and baseball through his involvement with the Neuenberg Atomics baseball club.

Stephen discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of ministering in Germany, where clubs (Verein/Vereine) form a crucial part of social life. Through genuine relationships built over years of coaching and playing baseball, Stephen and his team have established credibility and meaningful connections with the local community.

Listeners will learn about Stephen’s approach to mission(s)—one rooted in vocation, authenticity, and long-term commitment. The conversation also highlights opportunities for short-term missions, internships, and how those passionate about baseball can serve the kingdom of God overseas.

Find out how you can get involved and explore what it means to live out your faith through sports and church ministry.

The Three-Office View

Christ the Center — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 05:00:35 +0000

In this episode, we explore the biblical and historical foundations of Presbyterian church government through the lens of the three-office view—minister, ruling elder, and deacon. Joining us are two distinguished guests: Mark R. Brown, editor of and contributor to Order in the Offices, and Greg Reynolds, contributor to the volume.

Together, we discuss the scriptural and theological arguments for distinguishing the minister of the Word from the ruling elder, why this distinction matters for the health of the church, and the modern challenges facing Presbyterian polity. Brown shares insights from his decades-long defense of the three-office view, while Reynolds unpacks his essay, “Democracy and the Denigration of Office,” explaining how cultural influences have shaped and distorted church governance.

Whether you’re a church officer, seminarian, or simply interested in Reformed ecclesiology, this conversation offers a compelling case for recovering the historic Presbyterian model of church leadership.

Mark R. Brown is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. He is a graduate of Geneva College and Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. After completing his seminary education in 1977, he planted Westminster Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, where he faithfully served as pastor for forty years until his retirement in 2017.

Greg Reynolds is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church who has served as a church planter and pastor in both New York and New Hampshire. Before entering the ministry, he worked in the field of architecture. In addition to his pastoral work, he is the editor of Ordained Servant: A Journal for Church Officers, where he has contributed numerous essays on ecclesiology and pastoral ministry. Reynolds is the author of The Word Is Worth a Thousand Pictures: Preaching in the Electronic Age, which explores the impact of media on preaching and worship. His academic background includes studies at the Boston Architectural College, the L’Abri Fellowship, Covenant College (BA, 1975), Westminster Theological Seminary (MDiv, 1979), and Westminster Seminary in California (DMin, 2001).

Use coupon code order25 to save 25% on the book at our website. The coupon is good for one week, from March 21–28, 2025. You may also purchase the book from our partner booksellers:

Reformation Heritage Books
Canon and Creed Reformed Books
Reformed Book Services (our Canadian bookseller)

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:28 The Story of the First Edition of Order in the Offices
00:14:24 Influential Theologians on the Topic
00:22:44 Misunderstandings about the Offices
00:29:31 The New Testament Terms for Ministers and Elders
00:32:57 Cultural Influences against Presbyterian Government
00:42:58 The Forgotten Thomas Smyth
00:52:31 Teaching and Implementing a Three-Office View
00:58:52 Final Comments
01:01:44 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Greg Reynolds, Mark R. Brown

Ruth 1:1–5 — Going to a Far Country

Proclaiming Christ — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What happens when you leave the people of God and venture to a far country? And when tragedy strikes there, is there any hope that God’s grace can restore what sin has devastated? Welcome to the book of Ruth, where we find curse and death but also God’s amazing grace. Ruth reveals the power of God’s grace in Christ to bring fullness where there was emptiness.

Participants: Andrew Miller, Mark A. Winder

The Pastor Shortage: Challenges and Opportunities for the Reformed Church

Reformed Forum Live — Sat, 01 Mar 2025 14:24:13 +0000

In this conversation, Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, and Dan Borvan discuss various topics including the recent Reformed Forum seminar in Oklahoma City, office tchotchkes, the announcement of a new book, and the pressing issue of ministerial training and the shortage of pastors in the Reformed community.

They explore the implications of these challenges and share insights on how to address them moving forward. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of ministry, focusing on the reluctance of young men to relocate for vocational opportunities, the changing mindset towards ministry, and the need for proactive measures in raising future church leaders. They explore the challenges faced by churches in declining areas, the potential solutions such as merging congregations and bivocational ministry, and the future of ministerial education and credentialing.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
05:04 Reflections on the Oklahoma City Seminar
09:33 Office Items and Fun Conversations
15:30 Announcement of New Book and Upcoming Conference
17:24 Discussion on Ministerial Training Crisis
26:31 The Reluctance to Relocate for Ministry
29:18 The Changing Mindset of Ministry Aspirants
33:24 Raising Up Future Leaders in the Church
39:22 Challenges of Supporting Ministers in Declining Areas
44:08 Exploring Solutions: Merging Churches and Bivocational Ministry
50:04 The Future of Ministerial Education and Credentialing

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Borvan, Lane G. Tipton

You Will Be My Witnesses

Christ the Center — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Brian DeVries, a theologian and pastor in South Africa, about his new book, You Will Be My Witnesses, which explores the biblical and theological foundations of Christian witness, emphasizing the church’s role in participating in God’s redemptive mission. They discuss the Christian and Reformed landscape in South Africa, the importance of witness in missions, and the connection between worship and witness. DeVries emphasizes the need for a solid theology of mission and the role of every believer as a witness to Christ.

In this conversation, we explore the multifaceted nature of Christian witness, emphasizing its historical significance, the interplay of suffering and evangelism, and the importance of both word and deed in the church’s mission. They discuss the need for boldness in witness, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the impact of personal experiences on understanding witness. Additionally, they highlight the work of Mukhanyo Theological College in training leaders for ministry in Southern Africa.

Dr. Brian A. DeVries is a theologian, educator, and pastor with extensive experience in theological education and church planting. He earned his PhD from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and currently serves as the president of Mukhanyo Theological College in South Africa. In addition to his administrative role, Dr. DeVries is an adjunct professor of missiology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. Dr. DeVries has led three multiethnic church-planting teams in South Africa and currently serves as the pastor of Grace Reformed Church in Pretoria. He and his wife, Lanae, are blessed with five children.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
02:18 The Christian and Reformed Landscape in South Africa
05:41 Exploring the Book: You Will Be My Witnesses
10:10 The Theology of Witness in Missions
17:13 Witness Is Part of Christian Identity
26:54 Witness in the Old Testament
30:40 The Connection Between Worship and Witness
32:26 Historical Patterns of Witness and Suffering
37:58 Regaining Boldness in Witness
41:16 Word and Deed in Witness
44:38 Personal Experiences Shaping Understanding of Witness
48:54 Demystifying Evangelism and Apologetics
51:05 Mukhanyo Theological College
54:56 Conclusion

Participants: Brian DeVries, Camden Bucey

Reformed Forum Live (February 14, 2025)

Christ the Center — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 16:01:28 +0000

Camden Bucey is joined by Bo Collins and Joe Cristman to discuss various topics related to their churches, upcoming events, and personal library management. They also touch on exciting developments in the PCA, including church planting efforts in North Carolina, and introduce Joe’s new YouTube channel, Take Up and Read, which focuses on literature and theology.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
04:11 News and Updates
08:50 Personal Library Management and Book Recommendations
17:04 Loaning Books
25:55 Office Knick-Knacks
40:41 PCA Updates
52:22 New Podcast: Take Up and Read
55:54 Conclusion

Participants: Bo Collins, Camden Bucey, Joe Cristman

Reflections on Numbers and the Call to Ministry

Reformed Forum Live — Sat, 18 Jan 2025 15:46:12 +0000

In this lively Friday afternoon livestream recorded on January 17, 2025, Camden Bucey and a panel of guests discuss upcoming events, including Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary’s Confessional Conference, themed “The Pastor: His Call, Character, and Work.” The panel includes Pat Daly (Greenville Seminary), Stephen Spinnenweber (Westminster PCA, Jacksonville), Ryan Noha (Reformed Forum), and Carlton Wynne (Westminster PCA, Atlanta; Reformed Theological Seminary, Atlanta).

They preview the conference’s lineup, including talks on pastoral calling, ministry, and the broader applications of confessional theology.

Camden and Ryan highlight upcoming Reformed Forum events in Oklahoma City and California, offering opportunities to engage in robust theological discussions and fellowship.

Stephen shares insights from his current sermon series on the Book of Numbers, uncovering its rich ecclesiological and redemptive themes. The panel also reflects on the challenges of preaching through difficult books and the joy of revealing Christ in all of Scripture.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Live Stream and Panel
03:00 Greenville Conference Overview
08:07 The Unique Community of the Greenville Conference
10:02 Carlton Wynne’s Insights on Pastoral Calling
15:54 Exploring the Nature of Pastoral Ministry
18:07 Upcoming Events and Future Plans
24:56 Fellowship and Worship Opportunities
26:45 Upcoming Conferences and Events
28:26 Memorable Experiences and Connections
30:11 Exploring Historical Figures and Their Impact
31:36 Engaging with Contemporary Discussions
33:08 Critiques and Insights on Apologetics
37:39 Theological Frameworks in Apologetics
41:09 Preaching Through Challenging Texts
42:00 Insights on the Book of Numbers
48:37 Exploring the Book of Numbers
50:12 The Impact of Preaching on Congregation
51:41 Challenges in Old Testament Preaching
54:15 The Aaronic Benediction and Its Significance
56:23 Resources for Preaching and Teaching
58:17 Introduction to Stephen’s Book
01:01:01 Understanding the Law of God
01:03:51 The Three Uses of the Law
01:06:12 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Pat Daly, Ryan Noha, Stephen Spinnenweber

The 2024 Christmas Extravaganza

Christ the Center — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Join us for the Reformed Forum Christmas Extravaganza 2024, a four-hour special filled with lively theological discussion, reflections on the past year, and a look ahead to what’s in store for 2025. Hosted by Camden Bucey, this festive livestream features contributions from regular panelists Lane Tipton, Bob Tarullo, Jim Cassidy, Carlton Wynne, and special guests like Ruth Huang, a Mid-America Reformed Seminary student working on translating Reformed resources into Chinese.

Explore topics ranging from the state of the church worldwide to the joys and challenges of ministry in different cultural contexts. Enjoy special segments with Pamela York performing jazz piano, Kurt Vetterli sharing insights on ministry in Switzerland, and James Chu discussing the challenges and opportunities for ministry in the Philippines. These moments provide a global perspective on the Reformed faith and the work of the church across cultures.

Plus, enjoy games, giveaways, and reflections on Reformed theology, all delivered with the warmth and camaraderie of the Reformed Forum community. Whether you’re a long-time listener or discovering us for the first time, this episode captures the heart of our mission: to equip believers to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Visit ReformedForum.org/donate to support our year-end campaign and help us continue providing free theological resources worldwide.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

00:00:00 Sponsor: Five More Talents
00:01:04 Introduction
00:33:58 Ruth Huang and the Church in Asia
01:08:04 Steve Schmidt Hosts Wits & Wagers
01:44:12 Joe Cristman’s Top Books of 2024
02:18:56 Ministry and Campaign Update with Ryan Noha
02:28:38 Pamela York Plays Jazz
02:47:56 Kurt Vetterli on Ministry in Switzerland
03:11:19 Brad Isbell with the Top Stories of 2024
03:29:35 James Chu on Ministry in the Philippines
03:59:05 Wrap-Up and Announcement of Giveaway Winners

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Mark A. Winder, Robert Tarullo

A Very Merry Christmas

Theology Simply Profound — Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:00:00 +0000

For our Ninth Annual Christmas Special, Rob and Bob are here to bring you Christmas cheer with our annual Christmas silliness. This year we talk about the historical Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, otherwise known as St. Nicholas, and how the faithful defender of the faith has been transformed into Santa Claus. Of course, we do this with our traditional laughter and hysterics.

More seriously, friends, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you. Thank you for listening to Theology Simply Profound. We very much appreciate your ongoing support.

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo