In this thought-provoking episode, we welcome back Dr. Leonardo De Chirico, a leading Reformed evangelical theologian and pastor in Rome, for a consideration of the legacy and ongoing influence of Thomas Aquinas. Drawing from his recent book, Engaging with Thomas Aquinas: An Evangelical Approach (Apollos), Dr. De Chirico offers a critical yet charitable appraisal of Aquinas’s theological architecture and enduring impact on Roman Catholicism.

Together, Camden and Leonardo explore key themes such as the Catholic Church’s dual nature—Roman and Catholic—the evolving role of Thomism across church history, and the tensions within Roman Catholic thought on Vatican II and modernity. Listeners will also hear how Protestants have historically interacted with Aquinas and why an eclectic, biblically grounded engagement remains vital today.

This episode offers not only theological clarity but pastoral wisdom for evangelicals navigating the complexities of tradition, authority, and theological retrieval in a post-Reformation world.

Links

• Leonardo De Chirico, Engaging with Thomas Aquinas: An Evangelical Approach (Apollos)
• Vatican Files
• The Reformanda Initiative
• Rome Scholars and Leaders Network
• The Reformanda Initiative podcast

Watch on YouTube.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 11:09 Engaging with Thomas Aquinas
• 17:53 Thomas Aquinas’s Lasting Influence
• 29:07 Approaching Thomas Critically
• 37:00 Thomas as an Architectural Thinker
• 41:46 A Protestant Perspective
• 53:54 Five Guidelines for Evangelicals Engaging with Aquinas
• 58:53 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Leonardo De Chirico

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

Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha jump on the livestream to share updates on several exciting initiatives at Reformed Forum. They discuss the development of new educational courses and publications, the expansion of international cohorts through Reformed Academy, and plans for the 2025 Reformed Forum Theology Conference.

Listeners will hear insights into the theological vision behind these efforts, including the importance of worship, biblical studies, connectionalism among Reformed ministers, and curating essential readings for robust ministerial training.

Subscribe to our magazine and email newsletter. Donate to support our global mission.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Ryan Noha

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

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

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

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

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Nicholas Piotrowski

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

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.

Links

• Neuenberg International Church
• Neuenberg Atomics baseball club

In this episode Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey continue their discussion of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology, focusing on pages 369–371. This section addresses Jesus’ teaching on the divine majesty and greatness, the retributive righteousness of God, and the implications for true religion.

Lane Tipton explains how Vos maintains the biblical tension between God’s transcendent majesty and his loving condescension. They discuss how Vos’s doctrine of God stands against the errors of theological liberalism, which often reduces the divine character to a single attribute of love divorced from holiness and righteousness. The conversation highlights how Jesus’ teaching does not abandon the concept of divine retribution but presents it as an essential and irreducible aspect of God’s nature.

Drawing connections to the contemporary theological landscape, Camden and Lane address modern tendencies to elevate divine love to the exclusion of justice. They also explore the ways in which Reformed theology provides a robust foundation for understanding God’s attributes in their fullness, without compromising his immutability or impassibility.

Listen in as they unpack Vos’s profound insights and demonstrate how they continue to speak to modern theological debates.

Watch on YouTube.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 07:41 Vos’s Critique of Liberalism
• 11:32 The Attributes of God
• 17:02 The Impassibility of God and Its Importance
• 28:19 True Religion and God’s Transcendence
• 33:04 The Retributive Righteousness of God
• 44:51 Practical Application
• 49:53 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

In this special episode of Christ the Center, we commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS) with special guests Dr. Maynard Koerner and Wayne Johnson.

Dr. Koerner and Mr. Johnson take us on a historical journey through the origins, theological developments, and challenges that have shaped the RCUS over the past three centuries. From the church’s humble beginnings in colonial Pennsylvania, through the Mercersburg controversy, to the influx of Volga German immigrants, we explore how the RCUS has maintained a steadfast commitment to confessional Reformed theology.

We also discuss the upcoming tricentennial celebration in Rapid City, South Dakota, and reflect on the church’s present and future, its global mission work, and its deep connections with other Reformed bodies, including the OPC and Westminster Seminary.

Wayne Johnson is the Provost of City Seminary of Sacramento. He served as the editor of Leben Magazine from 2008–2018 and retired as CEO of Gateway Media in 2019. He has a BA in European History from Purdue University.

Dr. Maynard Koerner is President of Heidelberg Theological Seminary and Associate Pastor of Trinity RCUS in Sioux Falls.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 0:07 Introduction
• 3:32 The Tricentennial Celebration
• 4:50 The Colonial Era
• 11:06 Ecclesiastical Ties and Ministerial Training
• 20:07 Organization in 1747
• 28:23 The Mercersburg Controversy
• 38:46 The Volga/Black Sea German Immigration
• 42:31 The 1934 Merger
• 52:25 The RCUS Today
• 1:02:16 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Maynard Koerner, Wayne Johnson

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we a conclude our discussion of chapter XXX, the last chapter “The Resurrection, the Last Judgement, and the Final State.”

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

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

In this episode we welcome Dr. Jean Decorvet and Dr. Kenneth Stewart to explore The Geneva Réveil, a significant yet often overlooked nineteenth-century evangelical revival that reshaped French-speaking Protestantism and left a lasting global impact. We discuss the origins, theological dynamics, and international reach of this movement, featured in the new volume, The Geneva Réveil in International Perspective.

Dr. Decorvet shares personal insights, including his family’s connection to Adolphe Monod—known as “the voice of the revival”—while Dr. Stewart highlights the fascinating transatlantic ties between the Réveil and American Presbyterianism. The conversation considers the blend of warm piety and Reformed orthodoxy that fueled the movement, its influence on hymnody, social reform (including the founding of the Red Cross), and the broader currents of nineteenth-century evangelicalism.

Kennneth J. Stewart is a fellow of the Royal Historical Society. Until 2019, he was professor of theological studies in Covenant College, Lookout Mountain, Georgia.

Jean Decorvet is president and professor of theological studies at the Haute école de théologie, St-Légier, Switzerland. He is also a visiting professor in historical studies at the Faculté Jean Calvin.

Listen to discover how the Geneva Réveil not only revitalized Francophone Protestantism but also shaped the course of global missions, theological education, and the enduring legacy of Reformed thought.

Links

• Haute-École Editions
• Le Réveil de Genève Perspectives internationales
• French edition of the book

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:32 Familiarity with the Genevan Reveil
• 00:11:31 European Roots of the Evangelical Free Church
• 00:12:50 Historical Background and Context
• 00:17:52 Unique Aspects of the Genevan Reveil
• 00:22:02 Pietism and Calvinist Orthodoxy
• 00:28:53 The Reveil and Theological Liberalism
• 00:31:33 The Far-Reaching Effects of the Reveil
• 00:38:12 Roman Catholicism and the Reveil
• 00:44:17 American Presbyterian Influence on the Reveil
• 00:50:41 Louis Gaussen’s Influence
• 00:58:49 Looking to the Future
• 01:01:59 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jean Decorvet, Kenneth J. Stewart, Ryan Noha

In our weekly livestream for March 7, 2025, Camden Bucey first speaks with Jonathan Master about the upcoming Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary conference focused on pastoral ministry. They explore the theological significance of the pastoral office and the communal aspects of the conference.

In the second segment, Bucey speaks with David Noe, Tyson Watson, and Joan Crist about an innovative project centered on Calvin’s Latin Bible. The panel details their collaborative work to make this important historical text more accessible to contemporary readers. They address the challenges of translation, their quality control processes, and the technological solutions they’ve developed.

Joan Crist shares her personal journey to Reformed theology and explains how their project includes resources for learning Latin while engaging with Reformed theological traditions. The conversation highlights the enduring importance of liturgy and Latin in theological education, while offering insights into future developments of their digital platform.

To learn more:

• GPTS Conference: The Pastor: His Call, Character, and Work
• Calvin’s Latin Bible: Latin Per Diem
• Video Introduction: YouTube

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Panel Overview
• 02:48 Upcoming Conference at Greenville Seminary
• 05:56 Conference Speakers and Themes
• 09:00 Missions Midweeker and Community Engagement
• 12:08 Introduction to Calvin’s Latin Bible Project
• 15:00 Project Background and Team Contributions
• 17:52 Tyson Watson’s Role and Contributions
• 21:04 Joan Crist’s Involvement
• 24:01 Project Management and Quality Assurance
• 30:54 Joan’s Journey to the Reformed Faith
• 32:58 The Importance of Liturgy and Tradition
• 35:03 The Role of the App in Faith and Learning
• 37:57 Features of the Latin App
• 41:55 Teaching Latin and Developing Fluency
• 45:52 Collaborative Efforts and Contributions
• 48:00 Future Plans for the App
• 49:58 The Significance of Latin in Theology

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Noe, Joan Crist, Jonathan Master

In this episode we turn to Geerhardus Vos’s discussion on divine fatherhood as presented in Biblical Theology (pp. 365–369). Vos masterfully traces the theme of God’s fatherhood from the Old Testament to the New, demonstrating both its continuity and the profound transformation it undergoes in Jesus’ teaching.

We explore key theological distinctions, including:

• The development from a national to an individual application of fatherhood
• The redemptive, rather than universal, nature of divine sonship
• Jesus’ unique relationship with the Father and its implications for believers
• The eschatological significance of adoption into God’s family

Along the way, we challenge modern misconceptions about the fatherhood of God and discuss why Vos firmly rejects the notion of universal divine fatherhood. Join us as we uncover the richness of this biblical doctrine and consider its implications for the Christian life.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 05:31 The Divine Fatherhood of God
• 10:37 Biblical References to God as Father
• 14:13 God as a Father to the Nation of Israel
• 17:26 The Scope of Divine Fatherhood
• 21:38 Divine Fatherhood Is Not a Macro-Attribute
• 24:26 The Redemptive and Eschatological Nature of Divine Fatherhood
• 29:45 God Relating to Believers as Father
• 34:23 Clarifications on Alleged Universal Fatherhood
• 38:37 Expansion of the Concept in the New Covenant
• 43:50 The Practical Import of Divine Fatherhood
• 46:59 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

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

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

In this special live recording of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, Jim Cassidy, and guest Marcus Mininger explore the vital topic of redemptive historical interpretation. Dr. Mininger is Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Mid-America Reformed Seminary and author of Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26: Discovering a New Approach to Paul’s Argument (Mohr Siebeck).

Recorded in Oklahoma City as part of Reformed Forum’s Redemptive History Seminar, this discussion examines how Scripture should be read and understood through the lens of God’s unfolding revelation in Christ.

Dr. Mininger provides fresh insights into Romans 1–3, uncovering the biblical theme of revelation and how it shapes our understanding of God’s righteousness. The conversation also tackles Hebrews 6, a notoriously difficult passage, through a redemptive historical framework—showing why a return to the Old Covenant is both impossible and perilous.

Throughout the episode, the panel reflects on the importance of a Christ-centered hermeneutic, the role of Scripture as its own interpreter, and how biblical theology helps believers grasp the grand narrative of redemption. The discussion concludes with engaging audience questions, further unpacking key interpretive challenges.

Join us for this rich theological discussion and discover how reading Scripture in its redemptive historical context deepens our understanding of God’s Word.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Welcome and Introduction
• 00:04:01 Introduction to the Live Podcast Session
• 00:07:02 What is Redemptive Historical Interpretation?
• 00:13:23 The Importance of a Christ-Centered Hermeneutic
• 00:20:13 Understanding Paul’s Argument in Romans 1–3
• 00:34:36 Exploring the Theme of Revelation in Romans
• 00:54:06 The Bible as Its Own Interpreter
• 01:00:21 A Redemptive Historical Reading of Hebrews 6
• 01:08:44 The “Jetway” Illustration for the Old and New Covenants
• 01:11:45 Audience Questions and Discussion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Marcus Mininger

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we a discussion of chapter XXX, the last chapter “The Resurrection, the Last Judgement, and the Final State.”

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

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

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

In this episode, we open pp. 360–365 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology to discuss his profound insights into Jesus’s relationship with the Old Testament. How did Christ use the Scriptures in his teaching? What did he mean when he said he came to “fulfill” the law? And how does his doctrine of God affirm the continuity of divine revelation from the Old to the New Testament?

Whether you’re a student of Reformed theology, a pastor, or simply curious about the biblical foundations of Christ’s teaching, this episode offers a rich and insightful exploration of key theological themes. Tune in now and be equipped to see Scripture through the lens of redemptive history.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 09:08 Claims that Questions the Authenticity and Historicity of the Gospel of John
• 15:20 Disjunctive Views of the Old and New Testaments
• 21:04 Spirit and Truth
• 28:25 Jesus as Fulfillment of the Old Testament
• 38:46 Continuity between Old and New Covenants
• 42:44 Jesus’s Doctrine of God
• 49:11 Recap of Major Points
• 51:01 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we continue our discussion of chapter XXIX, “The Second Coming of Christ.”

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

In this conversation, Camden Bucey, Ryan Noha, Lane Tipton, and Scott Cook discuss various themes surrounding Reformed apologetics, particularly focusing on the critique of Cornelius Van Til’s thought as presented in Keith Mathison’s book.

After highlighting Lane Tipton’s new book Union with Christ: The Benefits of His Suffering and Glory, they explore the challenges of understanding Van Til’s work, especially given his use of language and the philosophical context of his time. The discussion also touches on the relevance of Van Til’s thought in contemporary apologetics and the importance of engaging with the limitations of human language in theology.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Welcome and Introduction
• 00:07:35 Lane’s New Book, Union with Christ
• 00:10:07 Van Til and Idealism
• 00:25:01 Critics of Van Til
• 00:38:46 Cunningham on Idealism
• 00:42:48 A Sale on Our Van Til Books
• 00:44:50 Van Til’s Critique of Adam’s False Ideal of Knowledge
• 00:48:04 Applying Van Til Today
• 00:57:01 Understanding Idealism
• 01:03:41 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton, Ryan Noha, Scott Cook

In this episode of Christ the Center, we engage in a thoughtful and rigorous discussion of Keith Mathison’s book, Toward a Reformed Apologetics: A Critique of the Thought of Cornelius Van Til. Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey critically examine Mathison’s interpretation of Van Til, particularly in relation to idealism, epistemology, and the noetic effects of sin.

Throughout this episode, we explore key themes, including:

• The Alleged Influence of Idealism: Did Van Til borrow philosophical categories from absolute idealism, or did he consistently maintain a Reformed, biblically grounded epistemology?
• The Nature of Human Knowledge: Did Van Til argue that humans must know everything in order to know anything? Or is this a misreading of his critique of unbelieving thought?
• The Ethical Antithesis in Epistemology: How does covenant theology shape Van Til’s apologetic system, and why is the ethical nature of knowledge crucial for understanding his method?
• The Role of Coherence and Correspondence in Van Til’s Thought: Did Van Til adopt an idealist coherence theory of truth, or did he reject both coherence and correspondence theories as traditionally conceived?

We also discuss broader implications for Reformed apologetics, the challenges of properly interpreting Van Til, and why these theological debates matter for defending the Christian faith today. While critiquing Mathison’s arguments, we affirm the importance of engaging in these discussions with charity and precision.

Join us as we work through these foundational issues and lay the groundwork for future conversations on Mathison’s book and Van Til’s apologetic legacy.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:07:17 Points of Appreciation for Mathison’s Book
• 00:13:04 Must Man Know All Things to Knowing Anything about Anything?
• 00:33:14 The Covenantal-Ethical Nature of Knowledge
• 00:51:11 The Influence of Idealism upon Van Til
• 01:01:54 Propositional Jenga
• 01:12:25 Borrowed Capital
• 01:18:42 Correlativism or One-Circle Thinking
• 01:23:10 The Coherence Theory of Truth
• 01:34:09 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Lane G. Tipton

Checking in from Scottsdale, Arizona, Camden Bucey discusses the Faith and Life Conference on worship and the themes of his upcoming talks. He reflects on recent podcast episodes, including discussions on ancient Near Eastern hero culture and the significance of animal imagery in biblical texts. The stream also touches on ethical considerations surrounding pet euthanasia, distinctions between the Reformed and Presbyterian family trees. We even daydream about a hunting excursion for people into Reformed theology.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Conference Overview
• 05:50 Upcoming Episodes and Live Streams
• 17:02 Ethics of Pet Euthanasia, Hunting, and Stewardship of Creation
• 23:52 Future Projects and Academic Works

Participants: Camden Bucey

Join us for a fascinating conversation on biblical imagery. Dr. Michael Seufert, pastor of Mission OPC in St. Paul, Minnesota, and author of the dissertation Of Beasts and Men: A Study of Genesis 49 in Light of Iconography, Metaphor, and Animal Studies, guides us through the rich tapestry of ancient Near Eastern hero culture and its implications for understanding Scripture.

We explore Genesis 49, Jacob’s poetic blessing, and its striking use of animal metaphors, unpacking themes of violence, power, and divine faithfulness. Dr. Seufert highlights the ambivalence in biblical heroism, contrasting the lion-like strength of Judah with the paradoxical power of the Lamb in Revelation.

Dan Svendsen, pastor of First OPC in South Holland, Illinois, also provides his perspective as a preacher immersed in the narratives of 1 Samuel. Together, we examine how the stories of David and Judah resonate with biblical themes of leadership, humility, and redemption, offering additional depth and richness to our understanding of hero culture in the Bible.

With insights into the cultural, theological, and practical applications of these themes, we discuss how the church today can embrace the counterintuitive way of weakness modeled by Christ. This collaborative discussion bridges rigorous scholarship and pastoral application, offering profound encouragement for the Christian life.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:10:04 Michael Seufert’s Academic Journey
• 00:25:47 Understanding Hero Culture in Scripture
• 00:35:43 The Wilderness of Empire and Violence
• 00:38:58 Animal Imagery in Biblical Power Dynamics
• 00:41:29 The Complexity of Judah’s Legacy
• 00:48:20 Lessons from Jacob and David
• 00:59:16 Embracing Christ’s Path to Victory
• 01:09:23 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Svendsen, Michael Seufert

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we continue our discussion of chapter XXIX, “The Second Coming of Christ.”

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Dr. Robert Letham, Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at Union School of Theology, to discuss his latest book, The Holy Spirit. Dr. Letham offers profound insights into the person and work of the third person of the Trinity, drawing from Scripture, church history, and systematic theology.

We explore key themes such as the Spirit’s role in creation, redemption, and sanctification, as well as his relationship to the Father and the Son within the Trinity. Dr. Letham also addresses contemporary theological debates, including the filioque controversy, Pentecostalism, and modern Spirit Christologies, while maintaining a firm grounding in classical Reformed orthodoxy.

Whether you’re a theologian, pastor, or layperson, this conversation will deepen your understanding of the Spirit’s transformative work in the life of the church and individual believers. Join us as we explore this rich and vital topic.

Robert Letham is the author of several influential works, including The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship and his acclaimed Systematic Theology. His writings are marked by a commitment to classical Reformed orthodoxy, thorough biblical exegesis, and an ecumenical appreciation of the broader Christian tradition.

Use code HS25 for 40% off The Holy Spirit by Robert Letham through February 21, 2025.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:24 Speaking of the Project
• 00:10:04 The Persons Are Fully God without Remainder
• 00:18:57 Trinitarian Persons Are Immutably Dynamic
• 00:22:38 Surveying the Literature on the Holy Spirit
• 00:30:05 The Development of the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit
• 00:34:39 Montanism and Pentecostalism
• 00:41:47 The Filioque
• 00:54:36 The Holy Spirit and the Ordo Salutis
• 01:06:22 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton, Robert Letham

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

In this episode we welcome back Dr. G. K. Beale, professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Dallas, to discuss Paul’s use of the Old Testament in his letter to the church in Colossae. Dr. Beale has written an insightful commentary on Colossians and Philemon in which he highlights the theological depth and practical application of these epistles, focusing on the Old Testament allusions in Colossians and their relevance to Paul’s message of Christ’s supremacy and the believer’s union with Him.

The conversation explores the nature of Paul’s argument against syncretistic false teaching, the significance of Christ as the true temple, and the practical implications of Paul’s exhortations for the church today. Dr. Beale also shares his method for identifying Old Testament allusions and discusses the relationship between Ephesians and Colossians.

This episode is a rich resource for pastors, teachers, and students interested in biblical theology, exegesis, and the practical application of Scripture.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 04:36 AI in NT Studies
• 13:10 Reformed Forum Seminary in Oklahoma City
• 15:37 Introduction to Colossians
• 21:27 Quotations and Allusions
• 25:15 The Nature of the Colossian Heresy
• 29:12 The Relationship between Colossians and Ephesians
• 32:05 Old Testament Allusions in Colossians
• 53:12 Initiation into and Maturity in Christ
• 55:19 The Elemental Principles of the World
• 58:46 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Greg Beale

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we begin to discuss chapter XXIX, “The Second Coming of Christ.”

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

In this episode, we consider the profound theological insights of Geerhardus Vos as found in pp. 355–360 of his Biblical Theology. Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton explore the Johannine concept of truth, which transcends human-centered definitions like coherence or correspondence theories. Instead, John presents truth as an intrinsic, divine attribute embodied in the Logos, Jesus Christ, and rooted in heavenly realities.

The discussion highlights how Jesus is both the fulfillment and culmination of the Old Testament, uniting Christocentrism and Christotelism to show that all Scripture points to him. From heavenly realities and earthly shadows to worship in Spirit and truth, the episode unpacks the eschatological depth of John’s Gospel and the organic unity of God’s redemptive revelation.

We also reflect on Jesus’ own hermeneutic, his attitude toward Scripture as the “most orthodox of the orthodox,” and how his approach undergirds the Reformation’s emphasis on the open access of Scripture to all people. This rich conversation will deepen your understanding of biblical theology, worship, and the relationship between the Old and New Testaments.

Join us as we uncover how Christ is not only the center but also the goal of all Scripture, illuminating God’s unified message of redemption across the ages.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 05:27 Upcoming Oklahoma City Seminar
• 10:12 True and Truth in the Gospel of John
• 19:57 Heavenly Realities and Earthly Shadows
• 31:47 Jesus’ Attitude toward the Old Testament
• 35:16 Christo-Centrism and Christotelism
• 47:28 The Fulfillment of the Scriptures
• 55:26 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

This special year-end episode highlights the top 10 most-viewed episodes and webinars from 2024. We work through key moments from discussions on Reformed theology and history.

These clips showcase rich theological discussions spanning topics from biblical interpretation and church history to contemporary cultural challenges facing Reformed Christians. This annual highlight episode continues a tradition dating back to the show’s founding in 2008, offering listeners both a recap of the year’s most impactful conversations and an invitation to explore the full episodes in greater depth.

The episode serves as both a celebration of Reformed Forum’s mission to support the church in presenting every person mature in Christ and a reminder of our commitment to providing free Reformed theological resources worldwide.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:04:14 Adonis Vidu — Exploring the Doctrine of Inseparable Operations
• 00:11:17 Aaron Renn — Life in the Negative World
• 00:15:15 Harrison Perkins — Exploring Covenant Theology among the Theological Disciplines
• 00:24:11 Van Til Group #13 — Roman Catholic and Evangelical Views of Sin and Human Consciousness
• 00:34:09 Iain Wright and Yannick Imbert — Reclaiming the “Dark Ages”
• 00:41:49 Greg Beale — Union with the Resurrected Christ
• 00:48:15 David Hall — Irony and the PCA
• 00:52:13 Cornelis Van Dam — Considering the Historicity of Genesis 1 and 2
• 00:55:21 Greg Beale and Ben Gladd — Dictionary of the NT Use of the OT
• 00:57:41 Alan Strange, Darryl Hart, Nick Willborn, and Timon Cline — Politics, Culture, and the Spiritual Mission of the Church
• 01:11:49 Conclusion

Participants: Aaron Renn, Adonis Vidu, Alan Strange, Benjamin Gladd, C. N. Willborn, Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Cornelis Van Dam, Darryl G. Hart, Greg Beale, Harrison Perkins, Iain Wright, Lane G. Tipton, Timon Cline, Yannick Imbert

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

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

In this episode of Christ the Center, Daniel Ragusa leads us in a consideration of nativity through the lens of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology. As this season prompts reflection on the incarnation of Christ, this conversation explores the eight aspects of the nativity highlighted by Vos, including its linguistic and redemptive-historical continuity, non-political and gracious character, eschatological significance, and missional scope. Along the way, we examine how Vos’s insights foster a deeper sense of wonder and worship, connecting the nativity to God’s covenantal promises and his grand redemptive plan.

Whether you’re a student of biblical theology or seeking to enrich your understanding of the birth of Christ, this episode offers profound insights and a timely celebration of the wonder of Christ’s coming. Listen in for a thought-provoking conversation that ties the nativity to the broader redemptive narrative and stirs your heart to worship this season.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Sponsor: Five More Talents
• 00:01:04 Introduction
• 00:13:17 Vos on the Nativity
• 00:15:59 Horizontal and Vertical Dimensions
• 00:26:21 The Structure of Revelation regarding the Nativity
• 00:31:55 Aspects of the Nativity
• 00:33:36 Organic-Linguistic Continuity
• 00:35:26 Historical Continuity
• 00:37:49 The Redemptive Aspect
• 00:42:16 The Non-Political Aspect
• 00:46:56 The Aspect of Grace and Obedience
• 00:56:30 The Eschatological Aspect
• 01:02:07 The Universal/Missional Aspect
• 01:06:44 The Supernatural Aspect
• 01:11:53 Bonus: A Covenantal Aspect
• 01:14:24 Practical Application
• 01:22:43 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, before moving forward in this chapter entitled, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we engage with what it means to live in these last days. What are the last days anyway?

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

In this episode, Chad Vegas, founding pastor of Sovereign Grace Church and founding board chairman of Radius International, joins us to discuss the extraordinary life and ministry of John G. Paton, a nineteenth-century missionary to the New Hebrides. Drawing from his experience contributing to a docuseries on global missions, Chad reflects on Paton’s unwavering faith, theological convictions, and perseverance in the face of immense challenges, including tribal conflicts and personal loss.

Together, we explore the spiritual and cultural context of the New Hebrides (present day Vanuatu), the lessons Paton’s life offers for modern missionaries, and the role of local churches in supporting mission work today. We also discuss the importance of heavenly-mindedness, the grace of God made perfect in weakness, and practical ways listeners can get involved in the Great Commission.

Whether you’re passionate about missions or looking for inspiration to deepen your faith, this episode offers rich insights into the transformative power of the gospel and its call to every believer.

Links

• Christ the Center episode 850 — Training and Equipping Missionaries with Chad Vegas and Jonathan Master
• John G. Paton: Missionary to the New Hebrides, An Autobiography
• The Making of Missionary: John Paton (Vanuatu)
• Camden Bucey, To the Ends of the Earth: The Great Commission and God’s Unfolding Plan for the Nations
• Dan Ragusa, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us
• Mark R. Brown, ed., Order in the Offices: Essays Defining the Roles of Church Officers (2nd ed.)
• 2024 Christmas Extravanganza

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Sponsor: Five More Talents
• 00:01:35 Introduction
• 00:03:58 New Books from Reformed Forum
• 00:07:47 Christmas Extravaganza (12/20/2024)
• 00:10:40 Radius International, Missionary, and Resources on Missions
• 00:18:42 Missions and Theology
• 00:20:32 Escaping a Small-Minded Mindset Regarding Missions
• 00:25:55 Missions and the Family
• 00:33:36 John G. Paton’s Story
• 00:39:38 The Testimony of an “Elephant” Church
• 00:41:22 The Islands and the People Paton Served
• 00:46:19 Heavenly-Mindedness and God’s Grace Made Perfect in Weakness
• 00:52:39 Obstacles to Going into the Field
• 00:57:41 Supporting Missions
• 01:05:38 Next Steps for Getting Involved
• 01:11:15 The Work of the Great Commission Is Everywhere
• 01:18:53 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Vegas, Ryan Noha

In this episode, Camden Bucey connects with Dr. Ben Gladd, the inaugural executive director of The Carson Center for Theological Renewal at The Gospel Coalition. Dr. Gladd shares the vision behind the Carson Center, its commitment to biblical theology, and its efforts to provide accessible resources to the global church.

The conversation touches on the center’s flagship projects, including a comprehensive, multimedia-enhanced Bible commentary and its ambitious translation goals. Dr. Gladd also discusses the current state of biblical theology and New Testament studies, highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing the church today.

Listeners will also enjoy insights into Dr. Gladd’s writing methods, his editorial role in the New Studies in Biblical Theology series, and the vital work of connecting the Bible’s story to believers around the world. Whether you’re a scholar, pastor, or simply curious about biblical theology, this episode provides insight and encouragement.

Watch on YouTube or Vimeo.

Links

• Learn more about The Carson Center for Theological Renewal at The Gospel Coalition.
• Explore Reformed Forum’s new publications: Order in the Offices, 2nd Edition and Fullness of Joy by Dan Ragusa.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 03:52 Woodworking Talk
• 10:37 New Books from Reformed Forum
• 13:48 Reformed Forum’s Christmas Extravaganza
• 16:03 Introducing the Carson Center
• 24:47 Key Programs
• 32:31 Theological Journals
• 42:07 The Current State of Biblical-Theological Understanding
• 55:31 How to Follow Up
• 57:44 Conclusion

Participants: Benjamin Gladd, Camden Bucey

Join Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy in this special live-streamed episode of Christ the Center. From discussing the “first annual” Reformed Forum Christmas Extravaganza to regional meetups and exciting book releases, this episode highlights several ways we are seeking to connect with our community. As Jim and Camden take questions from listeners in the live chat, the conversation also explores theological questions, including Karl Barth’s doctrines, the nature of ministerial church membership, and practical advice for theological students. Don’t miss this rich blend of theological discussion, community updates, and some unnecessary sports talk.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:01:26 News, Updates, and Events
• 00:04:19 New Book: Order in the Offices (2nd ed.)
• 00:18:07 Which Denomination Is the “Best”?
• 00:29:56 Karl Barth’s Christology
• 00:35:25 Should I Study Karl Barth?
• 00:41:09 Advice for Research Students
• 00:52:33 Ministers as Members of Presbyteries vs. Local Churches
• 01:04:19 Three Favorite Systematic Theologies
• 01:05:45 Is Gordon Clark Worth Reading?
• 01:09:28 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Danny Olinger, John Muether, Darryl Hart, and Camden Bucey explore the life and legacy of J. Gresham Machen, discussing Richard E. Burnett’s provocative book, Machen’s Hope: The Transformation of a Modernist in the New Princeton. Burnett seeks to reframe Machen as both modern and orthodox, portraying him as a “conservative modernist” who employed modern intellectual methods while remaining firmly committed to Reformed theology. This episode critically examines Burnett’s thesis and evaluates its contribution to understanding Machen’s theological and historical significance.

While Burnett rightly highlights Machen’s struggles in Germany and at Princeton, the panel critiques his more contemporary definition of the terms “modern” and “modernist,” noting they often diverge from Machen’s own vocabulary and theological focus. They emphasize that even the younger Machen remained theologically orthodox and discerning of heterodoxy, as seen in his critiques of figures such as his professor Wilhelm Herrmann.

Furthermore, the panel questions Burnett’s emphasis on Machen’s early crises over his later, defining contributions—such as founding Westminster Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church—arguing that this framing risks downplaying Machen’s lifelong theological battle against liberalism, which he saw as denying God’s direct intervention in history and thus undermining the gospel.

This episode sheds light on Machen’s enduring legacy and his vital contributions to Reformed orthodoxy. Overall, the panelists contend that Machen’s hope was centered on God’s supernatural action in history, a hope Machen famously summarized in his final words: “So thankful for active obedience of Christ. No hope without it.”

Links

• D. G. Hart, Defending the Faith: J. Gresham Machen and the Crisis of Conservative Protestantism in Modern America
• Ned B. Stonehouse, J. Gresham Machen: A Biographical Memoir
• The Presbyterian Conflict
• D. G. Hart and John Muether, Fighting the Good Fight: A Brief History of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church
• Richard E. Burnett, Machen’s Hope: The Transformation of a Modernist in the New Princeton
• Camden M. Bucey, “Thoughts on Machen’s Hope by Richard E. Burnett“

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:00 Machen’s Significance
• 00:25:13 Machen’s Family Background
• 00:41:44 Machen at Marburg
• 00:48:31 Machen, Vos, and History
• 00:54:54 Machen’s Mentors
• 01:05:28 Assessing Machen
• 01:20:53 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Darryl G. Hart, John Muether

In 1864, Folliott S. Pierpoint (1835–1917) published his hymn “The Sacrifice of Praise” for the celebration of the Lord’s Supper or eucharist (from the Greek eucharistia for “thanksgiving”). It would become the quintessential Thanksgiving Day hymn, known best under the title drawn from its opening phrase, “For the Beauty of the Earth.”[1]

As the story goes, the beauty of the English countryside captivated Pierpoint as he walked along the Avon River near his hometown of Bath. Its beauty was before him not as the work of his own hands but as a pure gift wrapped by another’s power and in another’s glory. Even his ability to take it in with sight and sound was a gift. And like any gift, these could only truly be received and enjoyed in one way and one way only—with thanksgiving. For what could he give in return for such gifts beyond his earning or exerting? All he could do, and all that these gifts were meant to lead him to do, was to “raise” a “hymn of grateful praise” to him who fashioned and freely gave them, to the “Lord of all” (verses’ refrain), from whom, through whom, and to whom are all things (Rom. 11:36).

Pierpoint had opened before him God’s “beautiful book in which all creatures, great and small, are as letters to make us ponder the invisible things of God” (Belgic Confession 2). The brimming beauty of this single page led Pierpoint to read on so that he became gratefully aware of the untold gifts that come to him and all people every day from the Lord of all. Whether things seen, like “the glories of the skies,” or things unseen, like “the love which from our birth, over and around us lies” (v. 1), we are ever anew recipients of the goodness of God. For he is “the overflowing source of all good” (Belgic Confession 1).

Whether “hill and vale, and tree and flow’r” or “sun and moon and stars of light” (v. 2), or “the joy of ear and eye” or “the heart and mind’s delight” (v. 3), or “the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent, child, friends on earth and friends above” (v. 4), all are the Lord’s and at his disposal to freely give. They are not the products of our own hands but gifts of inestimable worth that can only truly be received and enjoyed with thanksgiving. So, like Pierpoint, all we can do, and all that these gifts are meant to lead us to do, is to raise a hymn of grateful praise to him who freely gave them, to the Lord of all.

But how can we sing such a hymn from the heart? In Adam, mankind became implacably and hideously ungrateful. Fallen man ceased to honor God as God or to give him thanks (Rom. 1:21). In his sin and rebellion, man made the gifts of God ends in themselves, refusing to ever raise a hymn of grateful praise.

But the good news is that Jesus Christ came for such ungrateful people, as we once were. He bore all our ugly ingratitude on the cross and was raised on the third day to enter through the gates of righteousness with thanksgiving for us (Ps. 118:19). Whoever believes in him is united to him by the power of the Holy Spirit in his death and resurrection.

In Christ, we are filled with his Spirit of thanksgiving by whose strength a hymn of grateful praise can again be sung to the praise and glory of God. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Col. 3:16). And in Christ, the gifts of God are restored to their proper use, no longer ends in themselves but means to thanksgiving. “For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer” (1 Tim. 4:4–5).

Pierpoint leads us in this new and better way of gratitude by beginning each stanza with the preposition for. With this little, yet powerful word, each stanza begins with a subordinate clause that awaits the chorus for a sense of rest. The for awaits a to. The gifts await the Giver. “For the beauty of the earth . . . Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise” (emphasis added). Pierpoint subordinates all the good gifts of God as means to an even higher end. By them we are sped along the highways to Zion that in Christ, the truly thankful one, we may “enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise!” (Ps. 100:4). Gratitude could not drive us elsewhere but there. For more than his gifts of beauty, glory, joy, and love, the Lord of all has given us himself, “best gift divine” (v. 5), indeed.

This is the deeper Protestant conception of the Christian life: new obedience motivated by gratitude in the deepest depth of our heart because the Lord is our God, and we are his people by his grace alone. “The person who receives this grace owes and gives eternal thanks to God alone” (Canons of Dort III/IV.15).

[1] Hymn #249, Trinity Psalter Hymnal (Trinity Psalter Hymnal Venture, 2018).

Introduction

Richard Burnett’s Machen’s Hope: The Transformation of a Modernist in the New Princeton represents an ambitious effort to offer a fresh perspective on a significant Presbyterian figure—one who is central to my own ecclesiastical tradition, the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Burnett engages extensively with primary and secondary sources, sharing significant portions with the reader.

Burnett’s approach, much like James Eglinton’s work on Bavinck and Bruce McCormack’s on Barth, seeks to portray Machen as both modern and orthodox. The author focuses particularly on Machen’s crisis during his time studying in Germany and his later struggles at Princeton University and Princeton Seminary, as Machen sought to chart a scholarly course according to modern intellectual methods. Machen defied the common stereotype of fundamentalists, though he himself never embraced the label.

Modernity and Orthodoxy: A Familiar Narrative

Burnett highlights Machen’s modernity while affirming his orthodoxy, casting him as something of a “conservative modernist,” as Molly Worthen notes in her review of the book for First Things.

In the book, Burnett frequently challenges the interpretations of previous biographers like D. G. Hart and Ned Stonehouse. I find it curious that Burnett positions himself against Stonehouse, who was both a student and, for seven years, a close colleague and friend of Machen. Stonehouse’s work, though sometimes criticized for being hagiographic, also maintains critical distance at points. On balance, I would still give Stonehouse the benefit of the doubt when it comes to understanding the inner life of Machen.

Having more than 80 years of critical distance on a historical figure can be a great advantage. However, it can also skew certain considerations. For example, Burnett’s use of the terms “modern” and “modernist,” does not seem to align with how Machen himself used these terms. Machen consistently used “modernist” to describe a theological position that denied essential supernatural elements of the Christian faith. Burnett, however, seems to employ a different sense (perhaps one more widely used in current scholarship), which fits his narrative of Machen as an advocate and practitioner of modern scientific and intellectual methods..

While this alternative definition may serve Burnett’s purpose of portraying Machen as a modern intellectual with orthodox commitments, it risks misunderstanding—or downplaying—Machen’s actual theological battles, particularly his staunch opposition to liberal theology, which he saw as fundamentally incompatible with historical Christianity.

The “Later” Machen Reveals His Hope

The author does not address the most critical events in Machen’s life, such as the founding of Westminster Theological Seminary in 1929, the establishment of the Independent Board for Presbyterian Foreign Missions in 1933, and the OPC’s formation in 1936. I recognize that the author seeks to emphasize Machen’s crisis of faith and vocation, along with his attempts to “modernize” academics at Princeton. Yet, Machen’s later battles reveal his heart and spiritual priorities, and provide significant context. This is especially evident in his 1923 work Christianity and Liberalism.

The Core Debate: Machen on Supernaturalism and History

Burnett emphasizes Machen’s affinity toward modern rigorous methods of study, yet he tends toward separating his supernaturalist theology from his historical scholarship. This approach, reminiscent of Barth’s influence, is especially evident when Burnett quotes figures like Lyman Abbott and contrasts their views with Machen’s. Burnett (pp. 539–540) discusses how individuals like John Grier Hibben, Albert Parker Fitch, and Lucius Hopkins Miller, while affirming the supernatural, positioned themselves as advocates of “supernatural Christianity.” Burnett seems to suggest that Machen misunderstood their perspective.

This overlooks the core issue Machen was addressing. His concern wasn’t merely about acknowledging the supernatural in a mystical or dimensional sense; it was about affirming that God is actively and directly involved in history—something Machen believed his modernist opponents often failed to grasp.

Machen’s concern was not simply with the historical Jesus or a general study of history. He was adamant that God acts supernaturally and directly within history. These acts of redemption do not occur solely in personal experience or in another dimension, such as Geschichte or “God’s time for us.” They happen in our world, in our time. This was “Machen’s hope.” His final words, capturing this sentiment, were dictated to his friend, John Murray, in a telegram: “So thankful for active obedience of Christ. No hope without it.”

Conclusion

The book raises significant questions regarding Machen’s place in twentieth-century theology and presents a provocative perspective on his legacy. However, the author’s reframing of Machen as a modern historian who remains orthodox glosses over key aspects of Machen’s theological commitments. I sense that the author is seeking to identify an “early Machen” who ought to have embraced a mystical or dimensionalized Christianity—one that aligned with the thought of Herrmann or American Presbyterians like Fitch, Hibben, and Miller (or somewhat anachronistically, Karl Barth). Burnett appears to suggest that if only Machen had embraced this approach, he could have remained happily within the mainline Presbyterian Church (USA). I remain persuaded that, in the final 16 years of his life, such a version of Machen would have been unrecognizable to his colleagues, friends, adversaries, and perhaps even to Machen himself. Moreover, the mature Machen casts important interpretive light upon his younger self.

Join Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha as they welcome Dr. Daniel Ragusa, pastor of Messiah’s Reformed Fellowship in New York, to discuss his new book, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God With Us (single copies, ten-pack), published by Reformed Forum. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Ragusa dives into the biblical theme of Emmanuel, tracing the promise of “God with us” from Genesis to Revelation, showing how this theme unfolds through the covenantal storyline of Scripture and culminates in Jesus Christ. The book’s ten chapters correspond to a video course now freely available through our Reformed Academy, making it ideal for church groups, Bible studies, or personal study.

Explore how Dr. Ragusa uses biblical theology to reveal the coherence of Scripture and God’s redemptive plan for His people. From the Garden of Eden, through the patriarchs, tabernacle, and temple, to the final new creation, this episode unpacks how each stage of redemptive history points to Christ, inviting us to find true joy in fellowship with God. Perfect for believers wanting to deepen their understanding of Scripture’s unity and its application to the Christian life, this conversation offers accessible yet profound insights that are as useful for laypeople as they are for church leaders.

Tune in to discover the richness of God’s redemptive historical work and be encouraged to behold Christ on every page of the Bible.

Watch on YouTube.

Chapters

• 0:07 Introduction
• 14:16 Tracing the Theme of God with Us throughout the Scriptures
• 20:33 True God and True and Righteous Man
• 27:47 Eschatology and Fellowship with God
• 36:18 Deep Biblical Truths for Everyone
• 39:43 Christ Progressively Revealed in All of Scripture
• 46:38 The Tabernacle and Temple
• 54:58 Christ’s Resurrection and the Sending of the Spirit
• 1:02:06 The New Heavens and New Earth
• 1:10:31 Supporting Course Materials
• 1:13:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa, Ryan Noha

In this episode of Christ the Center, we continue our Vos Group series with an in-depth discussion on Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology, focusing on Jesus’ use of parables and allegories on pages 352–355. Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton explore the unique role of parables in Jesus’ teaching, emphasizing the contrast between parables and allegories and unpacking their function, purpose, and the theological depth within each form.

They also discuss the eschatological significance of the natural-spiritual parallel Vos identifies, highlighting how Jesus’ parables point to a heavenly reality beyond earthly expectations. The conversation also touches on the implications for Christian eschatology and the proper focus of hope within reformed thought.

Join us as we explore the richness of Vos’s thought and its relevance for understanding Jesus’ mission and message. Listen now to deepen your grasp of the parabolic teaching method and its place in Reformed theology, and catch up on past Vos Group episodes.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 03:27 Parables and Allegories
• 17:31 The Purpose of Parables
• 30:07 The Natural-Spiritual Parallel
• 38:44 John’s Theological Distinction
• 51:24 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, we come to the last section of the Summary, “The Doctrine of the Last Things.” Rob and Bob begin to a discuss chapter XXVIII, “Physical Death and the Intermediate State.” What is physical death? Why is there death? What is death for believers?

Participants: Rob McKenzie

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey welcomes Dr. Craig Ott, professor of Mission and Intercultural Studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, for an in-depth discussion on the intersection of global missions, cultural engagement, and theological education. Dr. Ott shares his experiences in church planting across Germany, his insights on missions in Eastern Europe, and the complexities of online theological education. Reflecting on his recent article, “Culture and Online Theological Education: The Democratization of Education or a New Imperialism?“, Dr. Ott explores the opportunities and challenges presented by digital learning platforms, especially in a global context.

The conversation covers topics such as the cultural implications of digital education, the need for contextualized theological training, and the importance of empowering local churches to adapt sound doctrine within their unique cultural settings. Dr. Ott also discusses broader trends in global missions and the impact of diaspora communities.

Listeners interested in missions, intercultural studies, and online theological education will find this episode both insightful and thought-provoking, offering practical wisdom on how the Reformed tradition can effectively engage with the global church.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Links

• Craig Ott, Teaching and Learning across Cultures (Baker Academic)

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:04:01 Dr. Craig Ott’s Background and Experience in Missions
• 00:14:43 The Influence of Digital Cultures
• 00:26:52 Media Ecology, and the Benefits and Detriments of Online Education
• 00:45:04 Cohort Models
• 00:52:45 Diversity in the Body of Christ
• 01:01:33 Current Challenges and Encouraging Aspects of Contemporary Missions
• 01:10:17 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Craig Ott

In pp. 77–79 of The Defense of the Faith (first edition), Cornelius Van Til addresses the fundamental differences between Christian and non-Christian perspectives on ethics, particularly focusing on the role of the will of God as foundational to ethical systems. Van Til begins by asserting that God’s will is absolute and self-determinative. God is eternally good, not becoming good through a process, but being so by his very nature. Unlike humans, God does not have to achieve goodness; it is intrinsic to his eternal character. Therefore, God is both absolutely necessary and absolutely free.

Van Til introduces a key distinction between Christian and non-Christian viewpoints. Christians uphold the concept of an absolutely self-determinative God, who is the necessary presupposition for all human activity. Non-Christian ethics, however, assume that if the Christian God were real, he would stifle ethical activity. This is because non-theistic views perceive God and man as having wills conditioned by an environment, implying that God must also achieve goodness through a process.

Van Til critiques Platonic philosophy, noting that Plato’s conception of “the Good” was ultimate, but his god was not. For Plato, “the Good” was abstract and separated from a fully personal God, leaving the ultimate reality as dependent on the element of Chance. Thus, even if Plato spoke of the Good, it was not self-determined or sovereign in the Christian sense. Modern idealist philosophers tried to build on Platonic thought by proposing an “absolutely self-determinative Experience,” but ultimately failed, according to Van Til, because they made God dependent on the space-time universe, blending time and eternity. As a result, God became dependent on external processes rather than being sovereign over them.

The core ethical difference between Christianity and non-Christian systems is the acceptance or rejection of an ultimately self-determinative God. Van Til argues that without the presupposition of God as absolute, there can be no coherent or purposeful human experience, including ethics. The absolute sovereignty of God is not a hindrance to human responsibility but rather its foundation.

Van Til makes a point to distinguish Christian doctrine from philosophical determinism. While both affirm necessity, philosophical determinism is impersonal, suggesting that everything is determined by blind, impersonal forces. Christianity, in contrast, asserts that the ultimate reality is personal; God’s sovereign will underlies the possibility of genuine human freedom and responsibility.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:31 Ethics and the Christian Philosophy of Reality
• 00:11:45 The Christian Conception of God
• 00:18:02 The Absolute Contrast between Christian and Non-Christian Ethics
• 00:29:48 Contrasts with Platonism
• 00:47:18 Contrast with Idealism
• 00:52:10 The Central Ethical Distinction
• 00:55:22 Contrast with Philosophical Determinism
• 01:05:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Lane G. Tipton

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, we continue our discussion of chapter XXVII, “The Lord’s Supper.” We talk about a variety of different matters, including where the body of Christ is currently and where Jesus is during the celebration of the Lord’s Supper.

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

In this episode, we are joined by Jeffrey C. Tuomala, Professor of Law at Liberty University, to examine two landmark U.S. Supreme Court decisions in light of two articles by Ned Stonehouse. Professor Tuomala, with his deep commitment to restoring the moral foundations of law, will offer his legal expertise to comment on Stonehouse’s reflections regarding McCollum v. Board of Education and Everson v. Board of Education. These cases addressed the relationship between church and state, religious education, and the issue of secularism in public schools.

We explore the deeper issues Stonehouse raised, such as the dangers of secularism in public education, the role of Christian education, and the balance between religious liberty and state control. Professor Tuomala provides a thoughtful legal and moral analysis of how these cases continue to influence contemporary debates about faith, law, and education in America. This conversation is a rich discussion on the intersection of theology, law, and Christian education in the modern world. Listen for a compelling exploration of these pivotal court decisions and their ongoing impact on religious freedom and Christian education.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:08:49 Ned Stonehouse’s Comments on Two SCOTUS Decisions
• 00:14:00 The Context of SCOTUS during the 1940s
• 00:17:09 Everson v. Board of Education
• 00:19:13 Thinking Critically and Defining Terms
• 00:25:23 Religion, Secularism, and Neutrality
• 00:38:53 Rethinking the State’s Relation to Education
• 00:51:04 Vouchers for Private Education
• 00:58:28 Improving Stonehouse’s Case
• 01:02:59 Resources for Going Deeper
• 01:06:03 Conclusion

Articles

• Ned B. Stonehouse, “A Differing Opinion on the School Bus Issue,” The Presbyterian Guardian 16, no. 6 (March 25, 1947): 83–84.
• Ned B. Stonehouse, “Whither Religious Education?,” The Presbyterian Guardian 17, no. 9 (May 25, 1948): 99.
• Jeffrey C. Tuomala (2024) “Is Tax-Funded Education Unconstitutional?,” Liberty University Law Review: Vol. 18: Iss. 4, Article 6.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Tuomala

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today’s episode, we begin to discuss chapter XXVII, “The Lord’s Supper.” We consider the Lord’s institution of the Supper, the background of the Passover meal, as well as what is meant by the Lord’s Supper being a sign and seal.

Participants: Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo