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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
There is a transition that occurs between the ministry of John the Baptist and the Ministry of Jesus. John begins to decrease, and Jesus begins to increase. The Lord Jesus
Something significant is missing in Genesis 34 as we read one of the most shocking stories of Scripture. How do you preach Christ in a text where a violent act
Paul calls upon his readers to remember five realities of their former life: separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers to the covenants, having no hope, and
Although humanity is dead and lost in sin, with no way to merit favor with God, God is rich in mercy and loves his people with a great love. Those
In this episode, we introduce the Gospel of Mark. We also explore how Mark introduces us to the person of Jesus Christ and the Gospel. Of special interest is the
Moses brings us to the height of the conflict between Jacob and Esau. We look at the need to preserve the tension in the story while connecting it to the
In this episode, we consider the reality that mankind, apart from God’s glorious grace, is completely and totally lost in sin. Before Paul moves to extol the riches of God’s
In this episode, we explain the meaning of David’s profession of righteousness. How can David speak about himself as being without guilt, relative to God’s law, when we know he
In part two of Paul’s Prayer we return to consider Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian believers. Yes, Paul’s burden is that the Ephesian believers would know the Lord. But what specifically
In part one of Paul’s Prayer, we will examine how the apostle Paul prays for the Spirit to be at work so that Christians can know God more. Paul’s thankfulness
Jacob expects a conflict with Esau but instead ends up wrestling with an unknown assailant, who can clearly best him at any moment. But when that moment comes, Jacob will
What is a Christian to do with the imprecatory Psalms? Are they to be read and sung today, and if so, with what understanding? Jim Cassidy talks about how to
As Jacob continues toward Canaan in obedience to God’s call, he comes up against another significant obstacle: Esau is coming to meet him Genesis 32:1–12—preparing for conflict with a small
This episode looks at the testing of Jesus that comes on the heels of his baptism. At his baptism, the Father declares “This is my beloved Son, with whom I
Mark Winder, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey discuss the relationship between hermeneutics and homiletics, focusing specifically on the preaching of Geerhardus Vos. Links Chapters Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Mark
Psalm 2 speaks of rebellious kings conspiring together against the Lord and his anointed. But the outcome of such conspiracies is clear. The Son will have the earth as his
In Eph 1:11–14 the Apostle Paul describes the glorious heavenly inheritance of the Christian. He seeks to encourage the Ephesian Christians—many of whom had given up earthly glory—by reminding them
The narrative portions of Scripture serve to highlight the paradigm established by Genesis 3:15. In the story of Jacob and Laban we see primarily not a conflict between two human
We embark on a study through a new book—Psalms. Jim Cassidy provides some important interpretive principles which he illustrates through a consideration of Psalm 1. Written for Israel, a nation
The baptism of Jesus is a pivotal event in the life of Christ and in all of redemptive history. In this episode, we explore its significance, seek to answer the
Jacob exhibits his faith as he responds in obedience to the Lord’s command to return to the land of his fathers. He had made a vow before the Lord, and
Repentance today is a byword. It conjures up images of a religious fanatic standing on a street corner with a cheap megaphone that more obscures the sound than amplifies it.
In this episode we see how John, the last prophet of the Old Covenant, transitions us to the New Covenant era by announcing the arrival of the LORD in the
This the second installment of a quarterly series of interviews highlighting the Lord’s work in the lives and ministries of our Reformed Forum faculty. Lane Tipton, Fellow of Biblical and
Hosea 13 contains mostly words of rebuke and condemnation. But there is good news there as well. The Lord rebukes his son, Israel, whom he called out of Egypt, for
Drs. Alan Strange and Cornelis Venema speak about the practice of catechetical preaching from a practical as well as historical perspective. While the practice is more common within the Dutch
We look at the significance of a trio of prophecies: the flight to Egypt, Jeremiah’s prophecy of the weeping of Rachel, and that “he would be called a Nazarene.” Matthew
What does Paul mean when he says that all things in heaven and earth will be united in Christ? The apostle moves from what Christ did on the cross for
This the first installment of a quarterly series of interviews highlighting the Lord’s work in the lives and ministries of our Reformed Forum faculty. Up first is Jim Cassidy, president
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss the church, worship, and preaching in a post-covid society. Has the pandemic changed the fundamental nature of society such that
Redemption is the work of the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Pauline trinitarian emphasis is something that may be somewhat lacking in modern preaching, but is essential
The Lord pronounces an indictment upon Israel and convicts her of her sins. He also calls her to repentance and to return to him. The coming judgment in exile reminds
How do you preach a passage as speckled and mottled as this one? We look at a text that at first glance has nothing to say about Christ and see
Hosea prophesied that God would call his son out of Egypt. Of course, that was long after the Exodus. But here in Chapter 11 the Exodus serves as a motif
The apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a building to describe the people of God. What is the significance of this metaphor, and what are the implications of that, particularly
What does it mean to be predestined, and to what end does God predestine his people? Robert Arendale joins us again in an exposition of this important passage, including a
This section of Genesis showcases an alarming lack of dependence upon God, which results in deception and contention in Jacob’s family. Here we see the foundation laid for much of
The Apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Ephesus to remind them of the “unsearchable riches” of Christ (3:8). That is, he writes to remind the Christians living in that
Jacob’s search for a bride parallels two other searches, all of which point us to Christ who offers the water of life and becomes a servant to secure his bride.
In Hosea 10 the prophet likens Israel to a vineyard and and garden – but not a very fruitful one. In fact, her covenants with the nations has given rise
The following books are on our radar for April 15, 2021. Greidanus, Sidney. Preaching Christ from Leviticus: Foundations for Expository Sermons (Eerdmans, March 2021). 344 pages. $35.00. Paperback. Ryken, Leland and Mathes,
The following books are on our radar for April 8, 2021. Barrett, Matthew. Simply Trinity: The Unmanipulated Father, Son, and Spirit (Baker, March 2021). 368 pages. $24.99. Paperback. Van Dam, Cornelis. In the
Occasionally the New Testament provides a direct connection to the words of the Old, pointing like a bright beacon to the person of Christ. We find that is the case
Although Jacob and Esau both show themselves unworthy to inherit the covenant promises, we see, through two theological paradigms—the offspring and the land—that God Almighty will lead his people to
Matthew’s account of the visit of the Magi is not exactly the story as we know it from our cultural Christmas traditions. The response of these wisemen to the birth
In today’s episode we look at Matthew’s account of the genesis of Jesus. In this account of his birth story Matthew draws our attention to the particular perspective of Joseph,
Jonathan Landry Cruse speaks about worship. Cruse has written What Happens When We Worship (Reformation Heritage Books). Many churchgoers assume that worship is inherently boring, something we need to make
Hosea ministers in Israel between the time of the conquest of Canaan and the exile. In chapter nine of his prophecy, he tells of the coming judgment-exile of Israel into
Esau has been disqualified to receive the covenant blessing, but Isaac intends to give it to him anyway. In fact, none of the four characters in this chapter is painted
Paul once again admonishes the church in Corinth over its division into rival parties with some following Paul, and other Apollos. Paul rebukes them because this behavior is of the
In this passage, the Apostle Paul highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as the revealer and illuminator of the wisdom of God, which is the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In Genesis 26, God confirms the covenant promise to Isaac—the heart of which is “I will be with you.” In this episode, we see how God not only keeps this
In this episode of Vos Group, we turn to Vos’s sermon, “The Wonderful Tree,” in the collection of his sermons, Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary. Preaching on
As the Gospel According to Matthew begins we are introduced to the royal line of Jesus, where Matthew presents Jesus to us as the Davidic king, the universal king, and
Hosea brings a word of judgment upon Israel, threatening to send them into exile and judgment for their sin. Christ as the true and obedient Israel secures for his people
In an age of skepticism, Fredrich Schleiermacher wanted to cast religion in a manner that would be relevant and respected. In Episode 86 Jim Cassidy and Mark Winder discuss how
Jim Cassidy shows us how Israel’s folly and sinfulness renders her incapable of obeying God. In order to obey the Lord, she needs the Lord to grant to her the
In 1922, Reformed Press published six sermons by Geerhardus Vos in a volume titled Grace and Glory. In 1994, Banner of Truth published the same collection with ten additional sermons,
Joel Fick shows us how important it is to bring various passages of Scripture to bear upon one another, particularly where one may fill in the gap for the other.
Mark Winder shows us how in the story of Isaac which parallels that of Abraham, there is a theological point being made: from a human perspective there is one crisis
Jim Cassidy gives us a primer on covenant theology. As Israel, shaped by the law, becomes an analogy of Adam as Adam is in covenant with God in the garden,
In episode 81, Joel Fick leads us in a study of the birth of Moses. He demonstrates a model of preaching Christ not based upon merely noting a few parallels
Knowledge is not an end in itself, it is a means to an end that we might know the new world of God. When we understand that we are citizens
The conflict between Jacob and Esau serves as a paradigm for the redemptive conflict of the ages. God uses what the world would consider weak to accomplish his plan and
In Episode 78 the panel discusses how the story of redemption shifts focus from Abraham to his descendants, and particularly to Isaac and Jacob. Employing a covenantal and redemptive-historical hermeneutic
In this 67-verse chapter we examine some of the patterns and themes in this narrative full of intrigue. We discuss the transition of the covenant promises to Isaac, the providence
Glen Clary examines the matter and manner of Paul’s preaching. There is a crucifixion proclaimed by Paul, but there is also a cruciformity in how he proclaimed it, and to
In Episode 75 we see that because of our sin imputed to Christ, he stood condemned under the wrath of God. But Christ’s resurrection is the Word of Grace—Christ’s vindication.
In Episode 74 we observe what seems to be an ordinary bartering transaction. But upon closer observation we learn three significant things: Abraham is given a downpayment on the land
Adam York show us how God is presenting in the life of Isaac a type of the work of the future Messiah, who would come, be offered as a substitute
Joel Fick continues his introduction to the book of Exodus as he explores a fruitful people, a ferocious king, and the faithful God. Exodus shows us how the people of
In this introductory episode to the book of Exodus, Joel Fick explains how important it is to glance backwards and see what God is doing, even as we look forward
Abraham’s willingness to offer up his son Isaac at God’s command is a remarkable demonstration of obedience. He demonstrates not that he was justified by works, but that the hope
In this “bookend” text, a remarkable change is seen in Abraham, who demonstrates how a pilgrim is to conduct himself in a foreign land, and how he is identified through
In Episode 68, Jim Cassidy takes us through Hosea 4, where we see that God is judging his people because of their lack of a knowledge of him. Scripture shows
There are two kinds of wisdom—human and divine. The foolishness of preaching shatters the illusion of human wisdom and displays the wisdom of God, that the believer’s boast should be
In Episode 66, Jim Cassidy opens up Hosea 3, where God commands the prophet to buy his faithless wife back from slavery. This picture of redemption points to Jesus Christ,
In episode 65, Adam York examines Sarah’s laughter and her treatment of Hagar, gleaning from the passage important principles for interpretation. We do not approach Old Testament narratives looking a
In episode 64 we open up Genesis 20 and find a duplicate of what took place eight chapter earlier. To protect himself, Abraham tries to pass off his wife, Sarah,
The Westminster Larger Catechism, Question and Answer 154 describes the ordinary and outwards means of grace as the Word, sacraments, and prayer. We discuss these ordinary means and how they
The preacher should not preach in such a way that draws listeners to his own wisdom, but draws them to place their faith and trust in Christ alone as they
Hosea points to Jesus, who, as the new and final Israel, does not remain under the power of death forever. But Christ is raised from the dead in the vindicating
In a startling episode of fear and worldliness we find the hope of the gospel. Learn how the person and work of Christ can be preached from what seems to
Lot can not save himself—God has to do it. In his mercy he provides for Lot’s salvation even through the destruction of the city of man, and in so doing
The mercy that the Lord shows initially will be undone in judgment. But there is grace, restoration, and redemption for those who repent and trust in Christ. Participants: Jim Cassidy,
Lot serves as a paradigm or picture of the salvation of sinners and judgment upon unbelievers. Sinners are not saved because they suddenly figure out God’s mercy and come running
In Episode 57, we see that despite oncoming judgment, the passage underscores the deep relationship between God and Abraham. It is covenantal at its core. Participants: Adam York, Mark A.
Here’s the big pictures of 1 Corinthians 1 and 2, particularly focusing on the wisdom of God as the doctrinal and ethical antithesis to world, and an introduction to Paul’s
In the battle in which we must fight, Jesus is what we need, and Jesus is all we need. Participants: Adam York, Mark A. Winder, Mark Jenkins
Genesis 18 provides a prototypical picture of the feast the believers have with their King in the heavenly places. It does so in the context of Sarah demonstrating an imperfect
Hosea is made us of a series of cycles—of judgment and redemption. Here we begin looking at the first cycle of good news and redemption, as the prophet brings a
Here we seek to answer three questions: First, “What is the meaning of circumcision?” Second, “What is the purpose of circumcision? and third, “To whom is circumcision to be applied”
God re-names Sarai—again reflecting his covenant promise. And one essential characteristic of the covenant of promise is that covenant community will always be comprised of elect and non-elect. Inseparable from the
Paul appeals to the believers at Corinth to be united, and admonishes them to abandon their factionalism. Paul reminds them that he did not do anything among them that would draw
As the Abrahamic Covenant is expanded, it builds upon the revelation given in chapters 12 and 15. Through this everlasting covenant God will bring life to those who are dead
Our situation calls for serious self-discipline because the days are evil, and joyful celebration because God has rescued us from that evil in Jesus Christ. Participants: Adam York, Glen Clary,
Israel was called God’s son—a status under threat here in Hosea—as graphically demonstrated in the naming of Hosea’s children. God’s pending divorce of Israel points to the only way for
We welcome Glen Clary as our newest panelist, as he opens Paul’s eucharistic prayer concerning the church of God at Corinth. He centers it around the believer’s union with Christ—the
A remarkable picture of God’s grace given to an undeserving Egyptian woman, is used by the apostle Paul as a divinely inspired allegory of the way in which God operates
God has made his covenant with Abram, and now ratifies it through a solemn covenant ceremony that points to the supernatural character of the covenant’s nature and its keeping. Participants:
The Book of Hosea opens up with a shocking command as God tells the prophet to “Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom.” Hosea’s
On the heels of a tremendous victory, Abram has a choice to make. Not necessarily an easy one if his focus was on earthly things. Here’s Abram’s chance to make
Here are some clear cut commands—not therapeutic suggestions. Paul is not only explicit about the standard to which Christians are called, he is also explicit about why we are to
In a book written to a church full of problems, what is there for which to be thankful? Explore the Apostle Paul’s passionate and pastoral tone as he tackles the
After deliverance from Egypt, God’s people head back to the promised land. Nevertheless, they continue to stand in need of deliverance, for their warfare has not ended. Participants: Adam York,
In Episode 38 of Proclaiming Christ, our newest panelist, Jim Cassidy, provides our listeners with a model of biblical interpretation through an introduction to the book of Hosea. Participants: Jim
In Episode 37 of Proclaiming Christ, we see that right on the heals of God making a covenant with him, Abram is tested with a famine that sends him to
Dr. Eric Watkins, Pastor of Covenant OPC in St. Augustine, Florida, joins Jim Cassidy, Chris Hartshorn, and Dale Van Dyke for a discussion on his book, The Drama of Preaching: Participating
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss preaching in the context of Paul’s ministry of the word when Eutychus fell asleep at the window, fell to the
Today on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss the contrast between Paul’s reception at Thessalonica and Berea. In Thessalonica, there was jealousy and hostility. In Berea, there was an
Today we welcome Chad Van Dixhoorn to speak about his book, God’s Ambassadors: The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit, 1643–1653 in which he describes how the
Today, Rob and Bob with Melodie McKenzie, discuss Stephen’s speech in Acts 7, which leads us into the muddy of waters of sermons, some questions about preaching, and some thoughts
Who says Van Til is impractical? I would argue that Van Til in all his writing always has an eye towards the church. All of his theologizing, all of his
There is no event in all the world that you can attend (no matter how expensive or exclusive the tickets are) that compares to the preaching of God’s Word every
Cornelis P. Venema joins us to speak about his book By His Spirit and Word: How Christ Builds His Church (Reformed Fellowship, Inc.). Venema engages in an extended exposition on the
Ralph Cunnington. Preaching With Spiritual Power: Calvin’s Understanding of Word and Spirit in Preaching. Fearn, Ross-shire, Scotland: Mentor/Christian Focus, 2015. pp. 126. A controversy has been going on for some time among generally
Many churches may be familiar with lectio continua preaching in the form of the weekly practice of preaching consecutive passages through a book of Scripture. Catechetical preaching uses a catechism to organize
We welcome Dr. Dennis E. Johnson to speak about Christ as the substance and goal of all of Scripture. Dr. Johnson serves as Professor of Practical Theology at Westminster Seminary California and Associate Pastor of New
Reformed theologians have regularly underscored the relationship between Word and sacraments. The sacraments are appended to the Word for the purpose of confirming or sealing it. The sacraments do not
In his “Summary of Doctrine Concerning the Ministry of the Word and the Sacraments,” Calvin articulates the idea of union and communion with Christ through the means of grace. The
Hughes Oliphant Old has been publishing articles and books on the subject of worship since the 1970s. [See select bibliography below.] His book entitled Worship Reformed According to Scripture is hands
What would it have been like to worship with the saints at Rome in the middle of the second century? One can only imagine how thrilling it must have been
In St. Peter’s Cathedral in Geneva there is a plaque commemorating the life and ministry of John Calvin, which simply describes him as “servant of the Word of God.”[1] Truly,
You’ve seen them. They’ve taken over your Facebook timelines and Twitter feeds. They get forwarded to you on chat or through email. They’re called “listicles.” The unfortunately-named listicle is at
I regularly preach lectio continua. When we start a new series at my church, we open to verse one of that book and work through it week by week, passage by
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss Cain’s brutal murder of Abel and consider this act in light of God’s promises made in ch. 3. The brutality and desperation of human
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss the different offerings that Cain and Abel bring to the Lord, and we look at the theological significance of those offerings. Genesis 4:1–7 Now
Reformed Forum contributor Nick Batzig speaks about Jonathan Edwards: “Preaching Christ in the Song of Songs.” This talk was given at the 2014 Jonathan Edwards for the Church conference. http://www.edwardsconference.org/media
Dr. William Schweitzer speaks about Jonathan Edwards: “Faithful Ministers are Conduits of the Means of Grace.” This talk was given at the 2014 “Jonathan Edwards for the Church Conference.” http://www.edwardsconference.org/media
Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, and Bob Tarullo tackle listeners’ questions this week, concerning redemptive-historical hermeneutics and preaching as well as apologetic arguments. Please send in your own questions which we can
This week, Proclaiming Christ explores the provision for life as seen in Adam and Eve’s response to God’s curse. Genesis 3:20–24: The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she
K. Scott Oliphint, Jared Oliphint, and Camden Bucey review the Logos Reformed Base Package. List of resources in Platinum package. Previous post on the package from Jared Oliphint. Participants: Camden Bucey,
On today’s episode, we unpack Genesis 3:13-15, a pronouncement of judgment upon the serpent, but also of grace and good news for Adam and Eve. We examine other passages in
In this episode we discuss Genesis 3:9-12, and consider God’s pursuit of rebellious Adam. On the one hand, God clearly calls Adam into account for his sin, but on the
This week we discuss Genesis 3:8-10. Following Meredith Kline, we argue that in 3:8, God walks in the garden in the wind or spirit of the day. God’s Spirit is involved
On this week’s Proclaiming Christ, we discuss the temptation in Eden from Genesis 3:1-7. Man and woman begin naked and unashamed in a royal wedding, but abruptly, an evil serpent
Jim Cassidy reviews So Pastor, What’s Your Point? by Dennis Prutow, Professor of Homiletics and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The book gives practical counsel on preaching combined with wholesome theology
On today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2:18-24. We begin today’s discussion by finishing up talking about the two trees in the garden from our previous episode and then we discuss
On Today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2 broadly and the covenant God made with Adam. We consider objections to and reasons for saying that Adam was in a covenant. We
On Today’s episode we discuss the garden of Eden and the description given to it in Genesis 2:8-15. We discuss how the garden motif found in Genesis 2 permeates the
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we address the issue of whether there are two different creation accounts: one in chapter 1 and another in chapter 2. We discuss the
Camden Bucey and David Owen Filson speak about several new books, and journal, and one interesting out-of-print title. Links The Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society Reclaiming the Psalter: Praying
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss the creation mandate given to Adam and the promise of Sabbath rest. We invite your comments and questions. Participants: Adam York, Chad
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss days 4-6 of the creation account in Genesis 1. We continue the discussion of light and darkness in creation as it pertains
In this episode we discuss verses 3-13 of Genesis 1: the first three creation days. We discuss the covenantal character of creation, the theological dimensions of these days, God’s dominion
In this episode we discuss the first two verses of Genesis 1. The episode focuses on the centrality of God in creation. We begin by discussing some interpretive assumptions involved in reading this
Proclaiming Christ considers an introduction to the book of Genesis, looking at creation as it points to the eschatological glory of God.
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ the panel considers sermon delivery. We discuss things like: whether to use a manuscript or not, sermon application, resources, and things not to do
In his 1853 address to the Society of Alumni of Union Theological Seminary in Virginia, R. L. Dabney advocated for simplicity in pulpit style. Dabney calls preachers to what I would call “immediacy.”
In this week’s episode we discuss sermon preparation. As the panel considers the kind of work that must go on before a preacher is ready to preach, we discuss things
On this episode of Proclaiming Christ we talk about presuppositions that underlie the sermon preparation process. In particular, we deal with presuppositions which govern the proper reading and interpretation of
In this, the premiere episode of Proclaiming Christ, we introduce the panelists for this new Reformed Forum podcast on biblical preaching. We also begin to discuss foundational aspects of preaching. We welcome
This week the East of Eden crew examine Jonathan Edwards’ sermon “Safety, Fullness, and Sweet Refreshment, to be Found in Christ” based upon Isaiah 32:2. In this sermon Edwards unpacks the types
Mark Winder and Adam York introduce Proclaiming Christ, a newly reformatted program on preaching, exegesis, and biblical theology. Rev. Winder is pastor of Wolf River Presbyterian Church in Collierville, Tennessee and Rev.
We take a break from our regular format to enjoy a relaxed open forum. Nonetheless, the panel quickly focuses on the subject of preaching and sermon preparation. We ask questions
The relationship of justification and sanctification has returned to the forefront of several Twitter and blog circles. William B. Evans rekindled the discussion with a response to Tullian Tchividjian’s formulation of justification,
Christ the Center speaks with Dennis Prutow, Professor of Homiletics and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, to speak about his book So Pastor, What’s Your Point? Participants: Camden
The Christ the Center panel, ably augmented by Glen Clary, pastor of Immanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church of West Collingswood, NJ, had the privilege of sitting down and chatting with Dr.
The Christ the Center panel met with Anthony Selvaggio, a teaching elder in the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rochester, NY, a visiting professor of New Testament at Reformed Presbyterian Theological
John Currie, Lecturer in Practical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, discusses the challenges involved and the task of preaching. Rev. Currie is also Director of Alumni Relations and Educational Advancement
Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr. visits Christ the Center to speak about William Perkins’ role in the development of Puritan preaching. Pipa argues that Perkins’ overall influence and his book
We had the pleasure to discuss the preaching ministry with noted Scottish minister Eric Alexander. Rev. Alexander has spent his adult life serving Jesus Christ, in His Church, as a
Why Can’t Johnny Preach? That is a good question. And it is a troubling question too. To try to get at an answer, the Christ the Center panel interviewed Rev.
The panel of Christ the Center had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Philip Graham Ryken, Senior Minister of historic Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, with regard to his doctoral dissertation,
The Christ the Center panelists interact with Dr. John Carrick, associate professor of applied and doctrinal theology at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, about his latest volume The Preaching of Jonathan
Greg Reynolds joins the panel on Christ the Center to speak about media ecology and preaching in the electronic age. Dr. Reynolds is the pastor at Amoskeag Presbyterian Church in
This episode is an introduction to redemptive-historical preaching. The proponents of this kind of preaching argued that Old Testament narratives are not given primarily – to us by God to
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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
There is a transition that occurs between the ministry of John the Baptist and the Ministry of Jesus. John begins to decrease, and Jesus begins to increase. The Lord Jesus
Something significant is missing in Genesis 34 as we read one of the most shocking stories of Scripture. How do you preach Christ in a text where a violent act
Paul calls upon his readers to remember five realities of their former life: separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers to the covenants, having no hope, and
Although humanity is dead and lost in sin, with no way to merit favor with God, God is rich in mercy and loves his people with a great love. Those
In this episode, we introduce the Gospel of Mark. We also explore how Mark introduces us to the person of Jesus Christ and the Gospel. Of special interest is the
Moses brings us to the height of the conflict between Jacob and Esau. We look at the need to preserve the tension in the story while connecting it to the
In this episode, we consider the reality that mankind, apart from God’s glorious grace, is completely and totally lost in sin. Before Paul moves to extol the riches of God’s
In this episode, we explain the meaning of David’s profession of righteousness. How can David speak about himself as being without guilt, relative to God’s law, when we know he
In part two of Paul’s Prayer we return to consider Paul’s prayer for the Ephesian believers. Yes, Paul’s burden is that the Ephesian believers would know the Lord. But what specifically
In part one of Paul’s Prayer, we will examine how the apostle Paul prays for the Spirit to be at work so that Christians can know God more. Paul’s thankfulness
Jacob expects a conflict with Esau but instead ends up wrestling with an unknown assailant, who can clearly best him at any moment. But when that moment comes, Jacob will
What is a Christian to do with the imprecatory Psalms? Are they to be read and sung today, and if so, with what understanding? Jim Cassidy talks about how to
As Jacob continues toward Canaan in obedience to God’s call, he comes up against another significant obstacle: Esau is coming to meet him Genesis 32:1–12—preparing for conflict with a small
This episode looks at the testing of Jesus that comes on the heels of his baptism. At his baptism, the Father declares “This is my beloved Son, with whom I
Mark Winder, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey discuss the relationship between hermeneutics and homiletics, focusing specifically on the preaching of Geerhardus Vos. Links Chapters Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Mark
Psalm 2 speaks of rebellious kings conspiring together against the Lord and his anointed. But the outcome of such conspiracies is clear. The Son will have the earth as his
In Eph 1:11–14 the Apostle Paul describes the glorious heavenly inheritance of the Christian. He seeks to encourage the Ephesian Christians—many of whom had given up earthly glory—by reminding them
The narrative portions of Scripture serve to highlight the paradigm established by Genesis 3:15. In the story of Jacob and Laban we see primarily not a conflict between two human
We embark on a study through a new book—Psalms. Jim Cassidy provides some important interpretive principles which he illustrates through a consideration of Psalm 1. Written for Israel, a nation
The baptism of Jesus is a pivotal event in the life of Christ and in all of redemptive history. In this episode, we explore its significance, seek to answer the
Jacob exhibits his faith as he responds in obedience to the Lord’s command to return to the land of his fathers. He had made a vow before the Lord, and
Repentance today is a byword. It conjures up images of a religious fanatic standing on a street corner with a cheap megaphone that more obscures the sound than amplifies it.
In this episode we see how John, the last prophet of the Old Covenant, transitions us to the New Covenant era by announcing the arrival of the LORD in the
This the second installment of a quarterly series of interviews highlighting the Lord’s work in the lives and ministries of our Reformed Forum faculty. Lane Tipton, Fellow of Biblical and
Hosea 13 contains mostly words of rebuke and condemnation. But there is good news there as well. The Lord rebukes his son, Israel, whom he called out of Egypt, for
Drs. Alan Strange and Cornelis Venema speak about the practice of catechetical preaching from a practical as well as historical perspective. While the practice is more common within the Dutch
We look at the significance of a trio of prophecies: the flight to Egypt, Jeremiah’s prophecy of the weeping of Rachel, and that “he would be called a Nazarene.” Matthew
What does Paul mean when he says that all things in heaven and earth will be united in Christ? The apostle moves from what Christ did on the cross for
This the first installment of a quarterly series of interviews highlighting the Lord’s work in the lives and ministries of our Reformed Forum faculty. Up first is Jim Cassidy, president
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss the church, worship, and preaching in a post-covid society. Has the pandemic changed the fundamental nature of society such that
Redemption is the work of the Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Pauline trinitarian emphasis is something that may be somewhat lacking in modern preaching, but is essential
The Lord pronounces an indictment upon Israel and convicts her of her sins. He also calls her to repentance and to return to him. The coming judgment in exile reminds
How do you preach a passage as speckled and mottled as this one? We look at a text that at first glance has nothing to say about Christ and see
Hosea prophesied that God would call his son out of Egypt. Of course, that was long after the Exodus. But here in Chapter 11 the Exodus serves as a motif
The apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a building to describe the people of God. What is the significance of this metaphor, and what are the implications of that, particularly
What does it mean to be predestined, and to what end does God predestine his people? Robert Arendale joins us again in an exposition of this important passage, including a
This section of Genesis showcases an alarming lack of dependence upon God, which results in deception and contention in Jacob’s family. Here we see the foundation laid for much of
The Apostle Paul wrote to the believers in Ephesus to remind them of the “unsearchable riches” of Christ (3:8). That is, he writes to remind the Christians living in that
Jacob’s search for a bride parallels two other searches, all of which point us to Christ who offers the water of life and becomes a servant to secure his bride.
In Hosea 10 the prophet likens Israel to a vineyard and and garden – but not a very fruitful one. In fact, her covenants with the nations has given rise
The following books are on our radar for April 15, 2021. Greidanus, Sidney. Preaching Christ from Leviticus: Foundations for Expository Sermons (Eerdmans, March 2021). 344 pages. $35.00. Paperback. Ryken, Leland and Mathes,
The following books are on our radar for April 8, 2021. Barrett, Matthew. Simply Trinity: The Unmanipulated Father, Son, and Spirit (Baker, March 2021). 368 pages. $24.99. Paperback. Van Dam, Cornelis. In the
Occasionally the New Testament provides a direct connection to the words of the Old, pointing like a bright beacon to the person of Christ. We find that is the case
Although Jacob and Esau both show themselves unworthy to inherit the covenant promises, we see, through two theological paradigms—the offspring and the land—that God Almighty will lead his people to
Matthew’s account of the visit of the Magi is not exactly the story as we know it from our cultural Christmas traditions. The response of these wisemen to the birth
In today’s episode we look at Matthew’s account of the genesis of Jesus. In this account of his birth story Matthew draws our attention to the particular perspective of Joseph,
Jonathan Landry Cruse speaks about worship. Cruse has written What Happens When We Worship (Reformation Heritage Books). Many churchgoers assume that worship is inherently boring, something we need to make
Hosea ministers in Israel between the time of the conquest of Canaan and the exile. In chapter nine of his prophecy, he tells of the coming judgment-exile of Israel into
Esau has been disqualified to receive the covenant blessing, but Isaac intends to give it to him anyway. In fact, none of the four characters in this chapter is painted
Paul once again admonishes the church in Corinth over its division into rival parties with some following Paul, and other Apollos. Paul rebukes them because this behavior is of the
In this passage, the Apostle Paul highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as the revealer and illuminator of the wisdom of God, which is the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In Genesis 26, God confirms the covenant promise to Isaac—the heart of which is “I will be with you.” In this episode, we see how God not only keeps this
In this episode of Vos Group, we turn to Vos’s sermon, “The Wonderful Tree,” in the collection of his sermons, Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary. Preaching on
As the Gospel According to Matthew begins we are introduced to the royal line of Jesus, where Matthew presents Jesus to us as the Davidic king, the universal king, and
Hosea brings a word of judgment upon Israel, threatening to send them into exile and judgment for their sin. Christ as the true and obedient Israel secures for his people
In an age of skepticism, Fredrich Schleiermacher wanted to cast religion in a manner that would be relevant and respected. In Episode 86 Jim Cassidy and Mark Winder discuss how
Jim Cassidy shows us how Israel’s folly and sinfulness renders her incapable of obeying God. In order to obey the Lord, she needs the Lord to grant to her the
In 1922, Reformed Press published six sermons by Geerhardus Vos in a volume titled Grace and Glory. In 1994, Banner of Truth published the same collection with ten additional sermons,
Joel Fick shows us how important it is to bring various passages of Scripture to bear upon one another, particularly where one may fill in the gap for the other.
Mark Winder shows us how in the story of Isaac which parallels that of Abraham, there is a theological point being made: from a human perspective there is one crisis
Jim Cassidy gives us a primer on covenant theology. As Israel, shaped by the law, becomes an analogy of Adam as Adam is in covenant with God in the garden,
In episode 81, Joel Fick leads us in a study of the birth of Moses. He demonstrates a model of preaching Christ not based upon merely noting a few parallels
Knowledge is not an end in itself, it is a means to an end that we might know the new world of God. When we understand that we are citizens
The conflict between Jacob and Esau serves as a paradigm for the redemptive conflict of the ages. God uses what the world would consider weak to accomplish his plan and
In Episode 78 the panel discusses how the story of redemption shifts focus from Abraham to his descendants, and particularly to Isaac and Jacob. Employing a covenantal and redemptive-historical hermeneutic
In this 67-verse chapter we examine some of the patterns and themes in this narrative full of intrigue. We discuss the transition of the covenant promises to Isaac, the providence
Glen Clary examines the matter and manner of Paul’s preaching. There is a crucifixion proclaimed by Paul, but there is also a cruciformity in how he proclaimed it, and to
In Episode 75 we see that because of our sin imputed to Christ, he stood condemned under the wrath of God. But Christ’s resurrection is the Word of Grace—Christ’s vindication.
In Episode 74 we observe what seems to be an ordinary bartering transaction. But upon closer observation we learn three significant things: Abraham is given a downpayment on the land
Adam York show us how God is presenting in the life of Isaac a type of the work of the future Messiah, who would come, be offered as a substitute
Joel Fick continues his introduction to the book of Exodus as he explores a fruitful people, a ferocious king, and the faithful God. Exodus shows us how the people of
In this introductory episode to the book of Exodus, Joel Fick explains how important it is to glance backwards and see what God is doing, even as we look forward
Abraham’s willingness to offer up his son Isaac at God’s command is a remarkable demonstration of obedience. He demonstrates not that he was justified by works, but that the hope
In this “bookend” text, a remarkable change is seen in Abraham, who demonstrates how a pilgrim is to conduct himself in a foreign land, and how he is identified through
In Episode 68, Jim Cassidy takes us through Hosea 4, where we see that God is judging his people because of their lack of a knowledge of him. Scripture shows
There are two kinds of wisdom—human and divine. The foolishness of preaching shatters the illusion of human wisdom and displays the wisdom of God, that the believer’s boast should be
In Episode 66, Jim Cassidy opens up Hosea 3, where God commands the prophet to buy his faithless wife back from slavery. This picture of redemption points to Jesus Christ,
In episode 65, Adam York examines Sarah’s laughter and her treatment of Hagar, gleaning from the passage important principles for interpretation. We do not approach Old Testament narratives looking a
In episode 64 we open up Genesis 20 and find a duplicate of what took place eight chapter earlier. To protect himself, Abraham tries to pass off his wife, Sarah,
The Westminster Larger Catechism, Question and Answer 154 describes the ordinary and outwards means of grace as the Word, sacraments, and prayer. We discuss these ordinary means and how they
The preacher should not preach in such a way that draws listeners to his own wisdom, but draws them to place their faith and trust in Christ alone as they
Hosea points to Jesus, who, as the new and final Israel, does not remain under the power of death forever. But Christ is raised from the dead in the vindicating
In a startling episode of fear and worldliness we find the hope of the gospel. Learn how the person and work of Christ can be preached from what seems to
Lot can not save himself—God has to do it. In his mercy he provides for Lot’s salvation even through the destruction of the city of man, and in so doing
The mercy that the Lord shows initially will be undone in judgment. But there is grace, restoration, and redemption for those who repent and trust in Christ. Participants: Jim Cassidy,
Lot serves as a paradigm or picture of the salvation of sinners and judgment upon unbelievers. Sinners are not saved because they suddenly figure out God’s mercy and come running
In Episode 57, we see that despite oncoming judgment, the passage underscores the deep relationship between God and Abraham. It is covenantal at its core. Participants: Adam York, Mark A.
Here’s the big pictures of 1 Corinthians 1 and 2, particularly focusing on the wisdom of God as the doctrinal and ethical antithesis to world, and an introduction to Paul’s
In the battle in which we must fight, Jesus is what we need, and Jesus is all we need. Participants: Adam York, Mark A. Winder, Mark Jenkins
Genesis 18 provides a prototypical picture of the feast the believers have with their King in the heavenly places. It does so in the context of Sarah demonstrating an imperfect
Hosea is made us of a series of cycles—of judgment and redemption. Here we begin looking at the first cycle of good news and redemption, as the prophet brings a
Here we seek to answer three questions: First, “What is the meaning of circumcision?” Second, “What is the purpose of circumcision? and third, “To whom is circumcision to be applied”
God re-names Sarai—again reflecting his covenant promise. And one essential characteristic of the covenant of promise is that covenant community will always be comprised of elect and non-elect. Inseparable from the
Paul appeals to the believers at Corinth to be united, and admonishes them to abandon their factionalism. Paul reminds them that he did not do anything among them that would draw
As the Abrahamic Covenant is expanded, it builds upon the revelation given in chapters 12 and 15. Through this everlasting covenant God will bring life to those who are dead
Our situation calls for serious self-discipline because the days are evil, and joyful celebration because God has rescued us from that evil in Jesus Christ. Participants: Adam York, Glen Clary,
Israel was called God’s son—a status under threat here in Hosea—as graphically demonstrated in the naming of Hosea’s children. God’s pending divorce of Israel points to the only way for
We welcome Glen Clary as our newest panelist, as he opens Paul’s eucharistic prayer concerning the church of God at Corinth. He centers it around the believer’s union with Christ—the
A remarkable picture of God’s grace given to an undeserving Egyptian woman, is used by the apostle Paul as a divinely inspired allegory of the way in which God operates
God has made his covenant with Abram, and now ratifies it through a solemn covenant ceremony that points to the supernatural character of the covenant’s nature and its keeping. Participants:
The Book of Hosea opens up with a shocking command as God tells the prophet to “Go, take to yourself a wife of whoredom and have children of whoredom.” Hosea’s
On the heels of a tremendous victory, Abram has a choice to make. Not necessarily an easy one if his focus was on earthly things. Here’s Abram’s chance to make
Here are some clear cut commands—not therapeutic suggestions. Paul is not only explicit about the standard to which Christians are called, he is also explicit about why we are to
In a book written to a church full of problems, what is there for which to be thankful? Explore the Apostle Paul’s passionate and pastoral tone as he tackles the
After deliverance from Egypt, God’s people head back to the promised land. Nevertheless, they continue to stand in need of deliverance, for their warfare has not ended. Participants: Adam York,
In Episode 38 of Proclaiming Christ, our newest panelist, Jim Cassidy, provides our listeners with a model of biblical interpretation through an introduction to the book of Hosea. Participants: Jim
In Episode 37 of Proclaiming Christ, we see that right on the heals of God making a covenant with him, Abram is tested with a famine that sends him to
Dr. Eric Watkins, Pastor of Covenant OPC in St. Augustine, Florida, joins Jim Cassidy, Chris Hartshorn, and Dale Van Dyke for a discussion on his book, The Drama of Preaching: Participating
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss preaching in the context of Paul’s ministry of the word when Eutychus fell asleep at the window, fell to the
Today on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss the contrast between Paul’s reception at Thessalonica and Berea. In Thessalonica, there was jealousy and hostility. In Berea, there was an
Today we welcome Chad Van Dixhoorn to speak about his book, God’s Ambassadors: The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit, 1643–1653 in which he describes how the
Today, Rob and Bob with Melodie McKenzie, discuss Stephen’s speech in Acts 7, which leads us into the muddy of waters of sermons, some questions about preaching, and some thoughts
Who says Van Til is impractical? I would argue that Van Til in all his writing always has an eye towards the church. All of his theologizing, all of his
There is no event in all the world that you can attend (no matter how expensive or exclusive the tickets are) that compares to the preaching of God’s Word every
Cornelis P. Venema joins us to speak about his book By His Spirit and Word: How Christ Builds His Church (Reformed Fellowship, Inc.). Venema engages in an extended exposition on the
Ralph Cunnington. Preaching With Spiritual Power: Calvin’s Understanding of Word and Spirit in Preaching. Fearn, Ross-shire, Scotland: Mentor/Christian Focus, 2015. pp. 126. A controversy has been going on for some time among generally
Many churches may be familiar with lectio continua preaching in the form of the weekly practice of preaching consecutive passages through a book of Scripture. Catechetical preaching uses a catechism to organize
We welcome Dr. Dennis E. Johnson to speak about Christ as the substance and goal of all of Scripture. Dr. Johnson serves as Professor of Practical Theology at Westminster Seminary California and Associate Pastor of New
Reformed theologians have regularly underscored the relationship between Word and sacraments. The sacraments are appended to the Word for the purpose of confirming or sealing it. The sacraments do not
In his “Summary of Doctrine Concerning the Ministry of the Word and the Sacraments,” Calvin articulates the idea of union and communion with Christ through the means of grace. The
Hughes Oliphant Old has been publishing articles and books on the subject of worship since the 1970s. [See select bibliography below.] His book entitled Worship Reformed According to Scripture is hands
What would it have been like to worship with the saints at Rome in the middle of the second century? One can only imagine how thrilling it must have been
In St. Peter’s Cathedral in Geneva there is a plaque commemorating the life and ministry of John Calvin, which simply describes him as “servant of the Word of God.”[1] Truly,
You’ve seen them. They’ve taken over your Facebook timelines and Twitter feeds. They get forwarded to you on chat or through email. They’re called “listicles.” The unfortunately-named listicle is at
I regularly preach lectio continua. When we start a new series at my church, we open to verse one of that book and work through it week by week, passage by
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss Cain’s brutal murder of Abel and consider this act in light of God’s promises made in ch. 3. The brutality and desperation of human
This week on Proclaiming Christ we discuss the different offerings that Cain and Abel bring to the Lord, and we look at the theological significance of those offerings. Genesis 4:1–7 Now
Reformed Forum contributor Nick Batzig speaks about Jonathan Edwards: “Preaching Christ in the Song of Songs.” This talk was given at the 2014 Jonathan Edwards for the Church conference. http://www.edwardsconference.org/media
Dr. William Schweitzer speaks about Jonathan Edwards: “Faithful Ministers are Conduits of the Means of Grace.” This talk was given at the 2014 “Jonathan Edwards for the Church Conference.” http://www.edwardsconference.org/media
Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, and Bob Tarullo tackle listeners’ questions this week, concerning redemptive-historical hermeneutics and preaching as well as apologetic arguments. Please send in your own questions which we can
This week, Proclaiming Christ explores the provision for life as seen in Adam and Eve’s response to God’s curse. Genesis 3:20–24: The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she
Publisher’s Description As the twenty-first century dawns, the global church needs a rebirth of Holy Spirit-illumined, apostolic proclamation of Jesus Christ from every text of Scripture. The weakening church in
Publisher’s Description What is Christ’s calling to you? You may be seeking an answer, you may be avoiding the question – but when the Lords calls, he will be answered.
K. Scott Oliphint, Jared Oliphint, and Camden Bucey review the Logos Reformed Base Package. List of resources in Platinum package. Previous post on the package from Jared Oliphint. Participants: Camden Bucey,
On today’s episode, we unpack Genesis 3:13-15, a pronouncement of judgment upon the serpent, but also of grace and good news for Adam and Eve. We examine other passages in
In this episode we discuss Genesis 3:9-12, and consider God’s pursuit of rebellious Adam. On the one hand, God clearly calls Adam into account for his sin, but on the
This week we discuss Genesis 3:8-10. Following Meredith Kline, we argue that in 3:8, God walks in the garden in the wind or spirit of the day. God’s Spirit is involved
On this week’s Proclaiming Christ, we discuss the temptation in Eden from Genesis 3:1-7. Man and woman begin naked and unashamed in a royal wedding, but abruptly, an evil serpent
Jim Cassidy reviews So Pastor, What’s Your Point? by Dennis Prutow, Professor of Homiletics and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The book gives practical counsel on preaching combined with wholesome theology
On today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2:18-24. We begin today’s discussion by finishing up talking about the two trees in the garden from our previous episode and then we discuss
On Today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2 broadly and the covenant God made with Adam. We consider objections to and reasons for saying that Adam was in a covenant. We
On Today’s episode we discuss the garden of Eden and the description given to it in Genesis 2:8-15. We discuss how the garden motif found in Genesis 2 permeates the
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we address the issue of whether there are two different creation accounts: one in chapter 1 and another in chapter 2. We discuss the
Camden Bucey and David Owen Filson speak about several new books, and journal, and one interesting out-of-print title. Links The Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society Reclaiming the Psalter: Praying
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss the creation mandate given to Adam and the promise of Sabbath rest. We invite your comments and questions. Participants: Adam York, Chad
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ we discuss days 4-6 of the creation account in Genesis 1. We continue the discussion of light and darkness in creation as it pertains
In this episode we discuss verses 3-13 of Genesis 1: the first three creation days. We discuss the covenantal character of creation, the theological dimensions of these days, God’s dominion
In this episode we discuss the first two verses of Genesis 1. The episode focuses on the centrality of God in creation. We begin by discussing some interpretive assumptions involved in reading this
Proclaiming Christ considers an introduction to the book of Genesis, looking at creation as it points to the eschatological glory of God.
In this episode of Proclaiming Christ the panel considers sermon delivery. We discuss things like: whether to use a manuscript or not, sermon application, resources, and things not to do
In his 1853 address to the Society of Alumni of Union Theological Seminary in Virginia, R. L. Dabney advocated for simplicity in pulpit style. Dabney calls preachers to what I would call “immediacy.”
In this week’s episode we discuss sermon preparation. As the panel considers the kind of work that must go on before a preacher is ready to preach, we discuss things
On this episode of Proclaiming Christ we talk about presuppositions that underlie the sermon preparation process. In particular, we deal with presuppositions which govern the proper reading and interpretation of
In this, the premiere episode of Proclaiming Christ, we introduce the panelists for this new Reformed Forum podcast on biblical preaching. We also begin to discuss foundational aspects of preaching. We welcome
This week the East of Eden crew examine Jonathan Edwards’ sermon “Safety, Fullness, and Sweet Refreshment, to be Found in Christ” based upon Isaiah 32:2. In this sermon Edwards unpacks the types
Mark Winder and Adam York introduce Proclaiming Christ, a newly reformatted program on preaching, exegesis, and biblical theology. Rev. Winder is pastor of Wolf River Presbyterian Church in Collierville, Tennessee and Rev.
We take a break from our regular format to enjoy a relaxed open forum. Nonetheless, the panel quickly focuses on the subject of preaching and sermon preparation. We ask questions
The relationship of justification and sanctification has returned to the forefront of several Twitter and blog circles. William B. Evans rekindled the discussion with a response to Tullian Tchividjian’s formulation of justification,
Christ the Center speaks with Dennis Prutow, Professor of Homiletics and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, to speak about his book So Pastor, What’s Your Point? Participants: Camden
The Christ the Center panel, ably augmented by Glen Clary, pastor of Immanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church of West Collingswood, NJ, had the privilege of sitting down and chatting with Dr.
The Christ the Center panel met with Anthony Selvaggio, a teaching elder in the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rochester, NY, a visiting professor of New Testament at Reformed Presbyterian Theological
John Currie, Lecturer in Practical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, discusses the challenges involved and the task of preaching. Rev. Currie is also Director of Alumni Relations and Educational Advancement
Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr. visits Christ the Center to speak about William Perkins’ role in the development of Puritan preaching. Pipa argues that Perkins’ overall influence and his book
We had the pleasure to discuss the preaching ministry with noted Scottish minister Eric Alexander. Rev. Alexander has spent his adult life serving Jesus Christ, in His Church, as a
Why Can’t Johnny Preach? That is a good question. And it is a troubling question too. To try to get at an answer, the Christ the Center panel interviewed Rev.
The panel of Christ the Center had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Philip Graham Ryken, Senior Minister of historic Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, with regard to his doctoral dissertation,
The Christ the Center panelists interact with Dr. John Carrick, associate professor of applied and doctrinal theology at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, about his latest volume The Preaching of Jonathan
Greg Reynolds joins the panel on Christ the Center to speak about media ecology and preaching in the electronic age. Dr. Reynolds is the pastor at Amoskeag Presbyterian Church in
This episode is an introduction to redemptive-historical preaching. The proponents of this kind of preaching argued that Old Testament narratives are not given primarily – to us by God to
Receive notifications about forthcoming events, publications, and other updates. If you provide a US mailing address, we’ll send you a complimentary copy of our print newsletter when we publish the next issue.
Miracle of Spring A strange thing has taken placeA labor overnight—That by the thousands apaceNew births brought forth to light.Till now my yard was winter,The wind turns south, I wingBack
Summer By Geerhardus Vos Translated by Daniel Ragusa Though thousands of signs do brimThat he the land has graced,How shall I ever find him?Where do his footsteps haste?What tidings, O
Autumn By Geerhardus Vos Translated by Daniel Ragusa Still lingers golden autumn, still stand harvest colors,Ripening in field, still roams through woods and gardensA lovely postlude of summer’s most pleasant
I had the privilege of participating in a panel discussion on Danny Olinger’s excellent biography of Geerhardus Vos at the Presbyterian Scholars Conference, held at Harbor House, Wheaton College, on
