In this installment of Vos Group, Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss pp. 330–333 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. In this section, Vos focuses on the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, a pivotal event in the Gospels. Vos examines various interpretations and challenges to the historicity and objectivity of this event, discussing theories that view it as mythological or parabolic. He argues for its historical and objective reality, using scriptural references such as Matthew 12:29 to support his view. Vos emphasizes the dual nature of the event as both a temptation by Satan and a probation by God, underscoring its importance in the Messianic mission of Jesus. He contrasts this with the temptation of Adam in Genesis, noting differences in their respective contexts and purposes. Vos also explores the implications of the event on the understanding of Jesus’ sinlessness and His role in atonement. Throughout, he maintains a theological perspective that situates the temptation within the broader narrative of redemption and Christ’s mission.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:06:31 Jesus’ Temptation in the Wilderness
• 00:10:46 Myth and the Liberal Interpretation of Scripture
• 00:19:08 Matthew 12 and the Binding of the Strong Man
• 00:27:16 Eschatology and the Kingdom of God
• 00:30:28 The Impeccability of Jesus
• 00:51:34 Jesus Historically Casts Out Demons
• 00:53:28 The Holy Spirit, Messianic Sonship, and the Kingdom of God
• 00:59:00 Practical Applications of Jesus’ Temptation
• 01:05:34 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

In this episode, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy dive into a variety of topics answering questions submitted by listeners and viewers of the program. Topics covered range from theological discussions, such as the role of Jesus’ intercession for the elect and non-elect within the visible church​​, to historical and exegetical considerations, like the understanding of the Old Covenant as the Mosaic administration of the covenant of grace​​.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:12 What We’re Reading
• 00:14:42 Merit and the Covenant of Works
• 00:20:38 Jesus’ Intercession
• 00:29:38 Street Preaching and the Local Church
• 00:37:12 Old Testament Saints and the Indwelling of the Holy Spirit
• 00:47:20 Is the Old Covenant the Same as the Mosaic Covenant?
• 00:50:12 Flags in the Worship Service
• 00:58:13 Grape Juice in the Lord’s Supper
• 01:13:08 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Dr. Michael Beck joins us to speak about his book, Covenant Lord and Cultic Boundary: A Dialectic Inquiry Concerning Meredith Kline and the Reformed Two-Kingdom Project (Wipf and Stock), which is a theological exploration of the ideas of Meredith Kline and their impact on the Reformed Two-Kingdom Project.

The book provides a literature review of relevant works on the topic and highlights the broader universe of discourse in which this study exists. In the book and in this conversation, Dr. Beck offers a unique analysis of Kline’s theology and its practical implications for contemporary Christian life and practice.

Michael Beck is a pastor at Gracenet Community Church as well as a lecturer of Old Testament and biblical theology at Grace Theological College (New Zealand). Dr. Beck earned his PhD from the South African Theological Seminary Michael also co-hosts the Two-Age Sojourner podcast.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:02:56 Dr. Beck’s Ministry in New Zealand
• 00:10:48 Introduction to Kline
• 00:17:24 The Point of the Book: Kline and Cultural Engagement
• 00:30:21 Theonomy, Perspectivalism, and Neo-Calvinism
• 00:36:31 The Noahic Covenant
• 00:47:09 The Cultural Mandate
• 00:54:39 Considering Theological Differences
• 01:01:50 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Michael Beck

In this installment of Vos Group, Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss pp. 322–329 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. In this section, Vos discusses John’s testimony of Jesus after his baptism.

The testimony of John the Baptist as depicted in the Gospel of John emphasizes Jesus’ unique divine nature and eternal preexistence, distinguishing him from all others in redemptive history. This underlines John’s role as the one preparing the way for Jesus, who fulfills Old Testament prophecies as the sacrificial Lamb of God. It also highlights the immutable deity of Christ, who, despite his incarnation, remains unchanged in his divine person and essence. The narrative showcases Jesus’ baptism as an act of vicarious repentance and affirms his authority to bestow the Spirit, underscoring the theological depth of his identity and mission as witnessed by John the Baptist.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 07:00 The Pre-Existence of Christ Revealed at His Baptism
• 12:10 Christ before and after John
• 15:36 John 1:15, 30
• 26:12 Malachi 3 and the Trinity
• 30:43 The Ecumenical Tradition and Scripture
• 33:42 Divine Relationality
• 39:32 The Immutability of the Person of the Son
• 44:16 The Religious Significance of Christ’s Divinity
• 49:34 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

In the latest episode of Christ the Center, we explore the fascinating intersection of science, faith, and philosophy through the life and contributions of Robert Boyle, the seventeenth-century chemist often dubbed the father of modern chemistry. Our guest, Dr. Edward B. Davis, Professor Emeritus of the History of Science at Messiah University, shares his extensive knowledge on Boyle’s experiments, the development of Boyle’s Law, and the broader implications of Boyle’s work on the relationship between emerging scientific disciplines and religious thought. We also delve into the historical context of Boyle’s era, his influence on the mechanical philosophy, and how his devout Anglican faith shaped his understanding of the natural world. Listen as we explore the complex relationship of how scientific inquiry and religious belief have related throughout history.

Links

• Edward B. Davis CV
• Edward B. Davis on ResearchGate
• Dr. Davis’ article, “Robert Boyle, the Bible, and Natural Philosophy“

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:02:00 Christianity and History of Science
• 00:12:45 The Philosophical and Methodological Awareness of Scientists
• 00:18:52 Gaining Humility through Historical Perspective
• 00:25:02 Robert Boyle in Historical Context
• 00:37:28 Boyle’s Scientific Pursuits
• 00:41:57 Robert Boyle and James Ussher
• 00:44:03 Natural Philosophy
• 00:51:33 Boyle’s Views Contrasted with Deism
• 00:54:24 Boyle’s Contributions
• 00:59:13 Dr. Davis’ Scholarship on Boyle
• 01:03:41 Researching Boyle
• 01:08:13 Reading Dr. Davis’ articles
• 01:10:21 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Edward B. Davis

After recording a course on the subject for Reformed Academy, Dr. Carlton Wynne comes to the podcast studio to discuss John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion. Topics covered include Calvin’s theology, the right ordering of knowledge, general and special revelation, the effects of the fall on human reasoning, natural theology, and comparisons to the thought of Thomas Aquinas and Cornelius Van Til. Carlton also shares about his experience as a pastor-theologian and his talk on maintaining true religion in a modernist world at the recent Reformation Worship Conference. The conversation touches on the legacy of J. Gresham Machen and the need for the church to guard the good deposit of faith.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:41 Introduction to Carlton’s Course on Calvin’s Institutes
• 00:13:56 The Church and the Academy
• 00:20:58 Approaching a Course on the Institutes
• 00:30:30 The Natural Knowledge of God
• 00:37:52 Natural Theology, Ethics, and “Formal” Truth
• 00:49:48 The Reformation Worship Conference
• 00:57:28 Machen 2.0
• 01:10:39 Calvin and the Threefold Office of Mediator
• 01:12:52 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey offer an update regarding several projects and initiatives at Reformed Forum including the launch of Kevin Chiarot’s course on 1 Peter. We include the first lesson of the course, which is available for free on reformedforum.org and on YouTube.

In the first lesson, Dr. Chiarot teaches on the elect exiles Peter addresses in 1 Peter 1:1–2. Rev. Dr. Kevin Chiarot is pastor of Westminster PCA in Rock Tavern, New York.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 02:50 Carlton Wynne on Calvin’s Institutes
• 04:50 Reformed Academy
• 07:43 Update on Publishing and Other Work
• 13:42 Course Translations
• 16:46 Debrief on the Annual Conference
• 19:51 Continuing Education Certification
• 22:26 Looking Ahead
• 28:13 Kevin Chiarot’s New Course on 1 Peter
• 30:51 Elect Exiles in 1 Peter
• 52:29 Final Thoughts
• 54:22 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Ryan Noha

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey reflect on the recent Reformed Forum Theology Conference on J. Gresham Machen’s Christianity and Liberalism before turning to a discussion of their new booklet, Unfolding Redemption: Exploring the History and Order of Salvation.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:03:35 Reflecting on the 2023 Reformed Forum Conference
• 00:08:27 Machen and Denominational History
• 00:17:02 The Church and Culture
• 00:28:09 The History and Order of Salvation
• 00:35:41 The Unchanging Person of the Son
• 00:42:29 Jesus Declared to Be the Son of God in Power
• 00:55:05 The Benefits of Adoption
• 01:07:44 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Richard Gamble and Jeff McDonald join us again. On this episode, McDonald introduces several significant points about William Jennings Bryan, including his early life and upbringing in a strong evangelical tradition, his belief that schools and universities posed a problem to religious freedom, and his concern that students could be led away from faith into unbelief if they fell under the influence of mind worshipers. He also notes Bryan’s political career and his advocacy for economic and religious freedom, as well as his influence on the Democratic party and his ongoing relevance to current political issues.

Jeffrey McDonald is a Presbyterian minister, historian, and author of John Gerstner and the Renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed Evangelicalism in Modern America (Wipf & Stock, 2017).

Richard M. Gamble is Professor of History and holds the Anna Margaret Ross Alexander Chair in History and Politics at Hillsdale College.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 02:40 The Presbyterian Scholars Conference
• 10:27 William Jennings Bryan
• 18:48 Misconceptions about Bryan
• 22:05 Bryan’s Background
• 26:49 The Round Table Club
• 32:30 Concerns Regarding Religious Freedom and Education
• 37:11 Responding to Secularism
• 39:04 Machen and Libertarianism
• 41:11 Surprising Findings about Bryan
• 50:17 Bryan as a Nebraskan
• 53:26 Learning from Bryan
• 58:17 Conclusion

Links

• David W. Beggington, ed., The Gospel and Religious Freedom: Historical Studies in Evangelicalism and Political Engagement (Baylor University Press)
• Christ the Center episode 776 — Melvin Grove Kyle, J. Gresham Machen, and the League of Evangelical Students
• Christ the Center episode 599 — John Gerstner and the Renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed Evangelicalism
• Christ the Center episode 593 — The Battle Hymn of the Republic and Civil Religion

Books

• Jeffrey S. McDonald, “Advancing the Evangelical Mind: Melvin Grove Kyle, J. Gresham Machen, and the League of Evangelical Students”
• Richard M. Gamble, A Fiery Gospel: The Battle Hymn of the Republic and the Road to Righteous War (Religion and American Public Life)
• Richard M. Gamble, The War for Righteousness: Progressive Christianity, the Great War, and the Rise of the Messianic Nation. Wilmington, DE: ISI Books, 2003.
• Richard M. Gamble, The Great Tradition: Classic Readings on What It Means to be an Educated Human Being. Wilmington, DE: ISI Books, 2007.
• Richard M. Gamble, In Search of the City on a Hill: The Making and Unmaking of an American Myth. New York: Continuum/Bloomsbury, 2012.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff McDonald, Richard M. Gamble

Camden Bucey recently lectured on “The Importance of Van Til for Today” for the OPC’s Presbytery of Michigan and Ontario at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, MI. Jim Cassidy and Camden discuss the main points of the lecture before we turn to a recording of the lecture and its accompanying Q&A session.

Cornelius Van Til (1895–1987) has shaped the field of Reformed apologetics, drawing upon the strengths of Old Amsterdam and Old Princeton. But his impact extends beyond apologetics, affecting broader theological discussions and the identity of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. In this lecture, we explore the enduring relevance of Van Til’s work and thought, analyzing his theological contributions against the backdrop of his historical context while tracing their resonance in our own.

Download the handout

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:03:13 The Importance of Van Til for Today
• 00:09:20 Previewing the Main Points of the Lecture
• 00:24:50 Darryl G. Hart Introduction
• 00:26:47 Camden Bucey Introduction
• 00:31:20 Confessional Faithfulness
• 00:50:28 A Distinctly Reformed Witness
• 01:02:47 Doctrine of God
• 01:29:09 Questions and Answers
• 01:47:13 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Bruce Baugus to our program to discuss his book, The Roots of Reformed Moral Theology, published by Reformation Heritage Books. In this comprehensive work, Dr. Baugus delves into the foundational elements that have shaped moral theology within the Reformed tradition. He provides both historical and theological contexts, covering a range of topics including the Old Testament’s influence on Reformed moral thought, the significance of the Ten Commandments, the Reformation’s impact on moral theology, and its evolution in the modern era. Additionally, Dr. Baugus explores the practical applications of Reformed moral theology for contemporary Christian living.

This conversation serves as a continuation of a dialogue that began during our online Symposium on Reformed Moral Theology, held in August 2023. In the symposium’s concluding session, Dr. Baugus and Dr. David VanDrunen each presented their perspectives on the role of law in the Gospels, with a particular focus on the Sermon on the Mount as recorded in the Book of Matthew. The session also featured an interactive discussion between the two scholars and T. David Gordon.

Dr. Bruce P. Baugus is Professor of Systematic Theology & Apologetics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He earned a PhD in Philosophical Theology from Calvin Theological Seminary (2009) and served on the faculty of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, for fourteen years (2008–2022) prior to joining Puritan Reformed. He is also the editor of China’s Reforming Churches (RHB, 2014) and has contributed numerous chapters, articles, and papers.

Dr. David VanDrunen is Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary California.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:07:33 Moral Theology and Christian Ethics
• 00:12:49 Understanding the Roots of Moral Theology
• 00:15:10 Historical Developments in Reformed Moral Theology
• 00:18:38 A Distinctly Reformed Moral Theology
• 00:21:47 Moral Theology and Aquinas
• 00:23:51 The Law of Moses in the Reformed Tradition
• 00:33:53 Jesus and the Law
• 00:37:21 Jesus Showing the Climactic Character of His Coming
• 00:44:25 An Enduring Moral Law
• 00:51:51 The Redemptive-Historical Significance of Jesus’ Coming
• 00:54:46 The Law and the New Covenant People
• 01:03:01 The Natural Order and the New Creation
• 01:07:44 Conclusion

Participants: Bruce Baugus, Camden Bucey, David VanDrunen

In this episode, we welcome back Michael Glodo, Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. Rev. Glodo has written The Lord Bless You and Keep You (Crossway), a new book on the Aaronic blessing of Numbers 6:24–26. We discuss several biblical-theological and practical implications for contemporary faith and practice including what it means to behold the face of God. We also explore how the person and work of Jesus secures the blessing on our behalf.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:00:42 Revisiting A History of Dispensationalism
• 00:06:25 The Aaronic Blessing in Numbers 6
• 00:16:43 Beholding the Face of God
• 00:24:41 Faces in Scripture
• 00:30:55 The Context of Numbers 6
• 00:44:13 Jesus’ Priesthood and the Aaronic Blessing
• 00:50:33 The Aaronic Blessing in Worship and Pastoral Care
• 01:00:29 The Priesthood of All Believers
• 01:11:18 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Michael Glodo

Today, we turn to pages 318–322 of Vos’ Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to explore the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. Our goal is to offer a nuanced understanding by identifying both the similarities and differences between John’s baptism of Jesus and the baptisms John performed upon the people.

Vos aims to steer clear of two misconceptions: the first being that Jesus’ baptism and the people’s baptisms were entirely distinct events, and the second that they were essentially the same.

The baptism of Jesus holds dual significance. Firstly, it serves as a public and objective revelation of the Holy Spirit’s glory, manifested as the Spirit descended from heaven onto Jesus. Secondly, it has a sacramental meaning for Jesus himself, as he received something from the Spirit that furthered his earthly mission, which was a journey of suffering leading to glory.

In addition, we’ll examine the connection between Jesus’s baptism and his role as the Messiah, offering insights into both pneumatology—the study of the Holy Spirit—and eschatology—the study of end times.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 00:37 Discussing the Recent Course on Aquinas’ Trinitarian Theology
• 09:49 John’s Baptism of Jesus
• 23:22 The Redemptive-Historical Roles of Jesus and John
• 27:05 Jesus Identifies with His People
• 29:55 The Objective Office of Messiah
• 41:42 The Descent of the Spirit upon Jesus
• 46:54 The Sacramental Significance of Jesus Baptism
• 50:31 The Beginning of the New Creation
• 58:49 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

We welcome John Muether and Danny Olinger to discuss the seventh and final chapter of Machen’s classic book, Christianity and Liberalism. The chapter highlights the importance of the church as the most important social institution in Christianity. Machen argues that the church is not only concerned with saving individual souls but also with education and the maintenance of social life in this world. He critiques the liberal view of the church as a mere human institution and emphasizes the importance of the church as the body of Christ.

The chapter concludes by emphasizing the need for Christians to be united in the Church and the incompatibility of liberalism and Christianity on this question. Overall, the chapter provides a detailed and insightful analysis of the theological and biblical foundations of the church.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:02:24 Upcoming Projects on Meredith G. Kline
• 00:06:36 Christianity and Liberalism: The Church
• 00:12:46 Ecclesiology and Unbelief in the Church
• 00:16:52 Is Machen Representative of Other Presbyterians?
• 00:23:20 The PCUSA Losing Its Presbyterian Identity
• 00:29:10 The Source of the “Nones”
• 00:40:08 The True Presbyterian Church of the World
• 00:47:57 Hymns in the Back of the Hymnal
• 01:07:04 Rest from Strife
• 01:09:37 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, John Muether

We welcome Dr. Lane Tipton back to the studio on the heels of teaching a new course on the theology of Thomas Aquinas. In this course, Dr. Tipton aims to provide an in-depth understanding of Thomas Aquinas’s trinitarian theology, emphasizing that his entire body of work is governed by the concept of exitus (departure) and reditus (return) in the context of divine and human processions. 

In the course, Dr. Tipton analyzes primary texts such as the Summa Theologiae and the Summa Contra Gentiles, as well as works by notable Thomistic scholars such as Gilles Emery and Dominic Legge as he dives into the trinitarian structure of Aquinas’s theology, focusing on the eternal and temporal processions of the Son and the Holy Spirit, and their implications on topics like Christology and sacramentology. This trinitarian framework forms the backbone of Aquinas’s theological system, affecting every doctrinal topic it touches, from the nature of God to the ultimate end of human beings. Tipton contends that understanding Aquinas’s Trinitarian framework is key to grasping his theological system as a whole. The course aims not only to provide a nuanced understanding of Aquinas’s theology but also to offer a Reformed critique and alternative.

The Exitus-Reditus Structure

The exitus-reditus structure serves as the central framework for understanding the theology of Thomas Aquinas. In this structure, “exitus” refers to the process of departure or emanation, while “reditus” signifies return. This dyad is a governing principle not only in Aquinas’s understanding of the Trinity but also in his complete theological system.

In terms of the Trinity, the Son and the Holy Spirit emanate from the Father in “exitus,” and then return to the Father in “reditus.” This trinitarian procession is considered the foundational cause for the existence and return of all creatures. The divine persons’ internal processions serve as the model and cause for the external processions of rational creatures.

In relation to rational creatures, “exitus” refers to their creation and departure from God. God is seen as the efficient cause from whom all things emanate. “Reditus,” on the other hand, signifies the creatures’ return to God, drawn towards their ultimate end—participation in divine beatitude or happiness. This return can be understood at two levels: natural and supernatural. On the natural level, creatures return to God according to their inherent abilities. On the supernatural level, they are elevated through grace to participate in the divine essence itself, surpassing their natural capacities.

The exitus-reditus structure thus provides a coherent, systematic framework that integrates every aspect of Aquinas’s theology, from the doctrine of God to the doctrines of creation, grace, and eschatology.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:01:40 General Thoughts about the Course
• 00:08:01 The Primacy of the Father in Thomas
• 00:14:57 Calvin on the Son at Autotheos
• 00:24:44 Modes of Subsistence and Absolute Personality
• 00:32:37 Rock, Paper, Scissors, and Absolute Personality
• 00:40:35 The Eucharist and the Beatific Vision
• 00:47:29 Contemporary Evangelical Retrievals of Thomas
• 01:02:08 Interpreters of Thomas
• 01:03:48 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. A. Craig Troxel, Robert G. den Dulk Professor of Practical Theology at Westminster Seminary California. Dr. Troxel delves into his thought-provoking chapter on the communion of the saints from Theology for Ministry, a festschrift for Dr. Sinclair Ferguson.

What does it mean to build a spiritual community within the church? How can pastors cultivate a culture of love, service, and mutual respect, reflecting the Spirit-endowed riches of Christ’s gifts and graces? Dr. Troxel explores these profound questions, emphasizing the “one another” commands, the forms of mutual service, and the essential role of love in the life of the church.

Dr. Troxel also sheds light on the transformative power of worship and the vital role of the Spirit of God in animating the hearts of God’s people. He concludes with a compelling vision of the communion of the saints as more than just a gathering of individuals—it’s a sacred communion of those set apart for divine privileges and consecrated purposes.

Whether you’re a pastor, theologian, or simply someone seeking to deepen your understanding of community within the Christian faith, this episode offers rich insights and practical wisdom. Join us for a conversation that touches the very heart of what it means to be part of the body of Christ.

Dr. Troxel is the author of With All Your Heart: Orienting Your Mind, Desires, and Will Toward Christ (Crossway). His research interests include pastoral theology, Reformed spirituality, the doctrine of the church, and biblical teaching on the heart.

Chapters

• 0:07 Introduction
• 4:53 Preaching Courses at Westminster Seminary California
• 8:57 A Festschrift for Sinclair Ferguson
• 13:06 Studying the Doctrine of the Church
• 16:42 Building Community
• 25:41 Communion of the Saints
• 30:05 The Health of Our Ecclesiology
• 34:02 WCF Chapter 26 Of the Communion of the Saints
• 37:40 The Uniqueness of the Church
• 53:45 Encouraging Spiritual Vitality in the Church
• 57:34 Suggested Reading
• 1:06:03 Final Remarks
• 1:08:48 Conclusion

Participants: A. Craig Troxel, Camden Bucey

Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey discuss the sixth chapter of Machen’s classic book, Christianity and Liberalism. In this chapter, J. Gresham Machen explores the differences between the liberal and Christian views of salvation. He argues that liberalism finds salvation in man, while Christianity finds it in an act of God. Machen critiques the moral influence theory of the atonement, which denies the substitutionary character of Christ’s death and the wrath of God. In contrast, he emphasizes the need for a propitiation for sin and the centrality of the cross of Christ in the Christian view of salvation.

Machen concludes that the doctrine of salvation is essential to the Christian faith and that liberalism and Christianity are fundamentally incompatible on this question. The chapter provides a clear and detailed analysis of the theological and biblical foundations of the Christian view of salvation, and highlights the importance of this doctrine for the Christian life.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:40 Review of Christianity and Liberalism
• 00:09:28 The Liberal View of Salvation
• 00:16:14 Liberalism, Roman Catholicism, and the Atonement
• 00:26:24 The Significance of What Christ Did
• 00:31:47 Fundamentalism and Social Progress
• 00:34:30 Theological Categories
• 00:40:08 The Goal and Fruit of Liberalism
• 00:44:45 Machen and Hymns
• 00:54:09 Heavenly-Mindedness
• 01:02:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

We welcome Chris Castaldo to the program to explore the Beatitudes. In his book, The Upside-Down Kingdom, Castaldo offers a fresh perspective on these familiar teachings of Jesus, showing how they reveal God’s heart for the poor, the meek, and the persecuted. He also provides practical guidance for how we can live out these values in our daily lives, both as individuals and as a community of believers. The book is recommended for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the gospel and its implications for our lives today.

Castaldo argues that the Beatitudes challenge our cultural assumptions about power, success, and happiness, and call us to embrace a different way of living that is grounded in humility, compassion, and justice. Castaldo also draws on his own experiences as a pastor and theologian to provide practical guidance for how we can live out these values in our daily lives. Overall, The Upside Down Kingdom offers a fresh perspective on the Beatitudes that is both challenging and inspiring.

Chris Castaldo (PhD, London School of Theology) is the lead pastor at New Covenant Church in Naperville, Illinois. Follow him on Twitter at @chriscastaldo.

Books by Chris Castaldo

• The Upside Down Kingdom: Wisdom for Life from the Beatitudes
• Talking with Catholics about the Gospel: A Guide for Evangelicals
• The Unfinished Reformation: What Unites and Divides Catholics and Protestants After 500 Years
• Journeys of Faith: Evangelicalism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism and Anglicanism
• Holy Ground: Walking with Jesus as a Former Catholic
• Justified in Christ: The Doctrines of Peter Martyr Vermigli and John Henry Newman and Their Ecumenical Implications

Links

• Rebekah Eklund, The Beatitudes through the Ages
• The Center for Pastor Theologians

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 03:12 Introducing The Upside-Down Kingdom
• 04:11 Catholicism and Evangelicalism
• 08:03 Studying the Reformation in Italy
• 11:11 Chris’ Family History and the Beatitudes
• 12:49 Worldly vs. Biblical Measures of Success
• 17:58 The Beginnings of The Upside-Down Kingdom
• 19:14 Inaugurated Eschatology and the Kingdom
• 23:23 Addressing Cultural Assumptions
• 30:38 Meekness
• 36:32 Societal and Political Implications of Jesus’ Teaching
• 39:51 Liberal Christian Ethics
• 42:26 The Beatitudes and Catholicism
• 48:57 Hopes and Aspirations for Readers of the Book
• 52:40 Upcoming Projects
• 54:34 Integrating Our Studies
• 56:10 Lessons from Italian Christians
• 58:35 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Castaldo

We turn to pp. 315–318 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with John the Baptist. Our discussion examines the complexities of John’s role in the grand scheme of Biblical theology, unearthing profound insights about revelation and prophecy. We explore John’s unique connection with Elijah, and the significance of his testimony to Jesus and baptism.

Join us as we ponder Vos’s interpretation of Biblical revelation, shedding light on how it relates to the shadowy figure of John the Baptist. We navigate the delicate interplay between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, guided by the astute scholarship of Vos.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction
• 00:02:49 Thoughts on Studying Vos
• 00:14:10 John the Baptist and Elijah
• 00:21:50 Dispensational Interpretations of OT Prophecy
• 00:30:11 Repent in Preparation of the Coming of Christ
• 00:34:37 John’s Baptism
• 00:43:47 The OT Background to the Baptism of John
• 00:51:27 Considering John’s Baptism Redemptive-Historically
• 01:01:50 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Explore the profound wisdom of 1 Peter in this episode of the Christ the Center podcast. Camden Bucey is joined by Ryan Noha, Reformed Forum’s Director of Education and Advancement, and Rev. Dr. Kevin Chiarot, pastor of Westminster PCA in Rock Tavern, New York. Together, they discuss the teachings of 1 Peter, unraveling its rich eschatological themes of exile, suffering, our heavenly inheritance, hope, and resurrection.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re interested in the rich redemptive-historical themes of 1 Peter, or if you’re simply looking for an enriching and thought-provoking conversation on Reformed theology.

Links

• Christ the Center episode 483, “T. F. Torrance and Apostolic Succession” with Kevin Chiarot
• Christ the Center episode 403, “The Unassumed Is the Unhealed” with Kevin Chiarot
• Kevin Chiarot, The Unassumed Is the Unhealed: The Humanity of Christ in the Christology of T. F. Torrance
• Dan Ragusa, Exploring 2 Peter: The Promise and the Path
• This episode was fueled in part by Portillo’s.

Chapters

• 00:06 Introduction
• 05:50 1 Peter and the Series of Courses at Reformed Academy
• 10:57 Elect Exiles and the Audience of 1 Peter
• 15:37 Eschatology and Ethics in 1 Peter
• 23:15 A Living Hope through the Power of the Resurrection
• 29:45 1 Peter 3:15—Defense, Hope, and Reverence
• 40:48 Eschatological Elders
• 43:58 Difficult Exegetical Issues in 1 Peter
• 50:38 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Kevin Chiarot, Ryan Noha

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey discuss two new courses from Reformed Academy as well as the new online community and several upcoming events. Camden, Jim Cassidy, and Lane Tipton will be attending a meetup in Dallas on August 1, 2023 while Camden and Carlton Wynne will be present for a meetup in Atlanta on August 11. Reformed Forum will also be hosting an online symposium on Reformed Moral Theology on August 24, 2023. Information is available on our calendar.

After discussing all these matters, we include Jim Cassidy’s first lecture from a new course on Barth as well as a recording of a live Q&A session with Jim on the lecture.

Links

• The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth (Chapters 1–10)
• Van Til and Barth: A Confessionally Reformed Critique

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:03:02 Course on 1 Peter with Kevin Chiarot
• 00:06:14 John 1–10: A Study in the Truth
• 00:10:02 Van Til and Barth: A Confessionally Reformed Critique
• 00:16:25 Our Online Community
• 00:18:02 Local Meetups in Dallas and Atlanta
• 00:21:37 Symposium on Reformed Moral Theology
• 00:31:12 Online Study Groups
• 00:35:09 Jim Cassidy, Karl Barth Lecture 1
• 01:19:15 Live Q&A with Jim Cassidy
• 02:05:02 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Ryan Noha

In this episode, we speak with Jonathan Landry Cruse, author of The Character of Christ, a thought-provoking book that explores the character of Christ and the fruit of the Spirit. Join us as we consider the profound concepts of love, joy, and peace, and discover how Jesus embodies these virtues and offers them to us. Cruse shares insights into the true source of joy, practical strategies for cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of Christ’s love. Don’t miss this engaging conversation that will inspire and encourage you in your walk with Christ.

Rev. Cruse is Pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Other Books by Jonathan Landry Cruse

• What Happens When We Worship
• The Christian’s True Identity
• Hymns of Devotion

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:02:14 Background on Jonathan Landry Cruse
• 00:09:35 Books and Hymns by the Author
• 00:12:28 The Beginnings of This Book
• 00:15:29 This Is Not a How-To Book but a “He-Did” Book
• 00:22:48 Godly Characteristics as Facets of a Diamond
• 00:34:25 The Role of the Affections
• 00:38:03 The Source of True Joy
• 00:43:35 Peace as Reconciliation
• 00:50:37 Cultivating Fruitfulness in the Christian Life
• 00:53:59 The Fruit of Self-Control
• 00:59:59 How to Approach This Book
• 01:03:50 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Landry Cruse

We turn to pp. 311–314 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with John the Baptist. In this section, we are reminded of the importance of being methodologically self-conscious in our biblical theology. Vos provides valuable insights into John the Baptist’s mission and his place in the unfolding of God’s plan of salvation.

Through an exposition of Matthew 11:2-15, we explore Jesus’ correction of mistaken views and his explanation of John’s significance as “more than a prophet” as well as Vos’ biblical theology, emphasizing the redemptive event as preceding the interpretive word. Whether you’re a biblical scholar or simply interested in the history of special revelation, this episode is sure to provide you with valuable insights and a deeper understanding of John the Baptist’s role in the unfolding of God’s plan of salvation.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:01:32 Join Our New Online Community
• 00:07:37 New Course Available on Van Til and Barth
• 00:16:10 Vos, John the Baptist, and Methodological Considerations
• 00:23:32 Baldensperger and the History of Religions School
• 00:29:04 John the Baptist in Luke 1
• 00:36:54 Baldensperger’s View of Luke 1–3
• 00:44:45 The Christian Philosophy of History
• 00:50:14 John the Baptist in Matthew 11:2–15
• 00:57:46 John and Impending Judgment
• 01:01:45 John Living under the Old Covenant
• 01:05:46 Rejoicing in Suffering for Christ
• 01:18:16 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Sean Morris joins us to speak about the pastoral theology of John Knox. Known as the thunderous voice of the Scottish Reformation, Knox is a towering figure whose impact still reverberates within the walls of churches around the globe. This episode focuses on Knox’s profound commitment to conforming worship to Scripture, a principle that shaped not only the religious landscape of his own time but also the worship practices of numerous Protestant traditions today.

Knox’s time in Geneva led to a transformative moment in the history of the Scottish Reformation. He didn’t just carry back Calvin’s teachings to Scotland, he translated them into a national scale, bringing about the establishment of a new Protestant and Reformed Church of Scotland. Today, Knox is known as the “Father of Presbyterianism,” a title acknowledging his impact despite the strong influences he drew from Calvin.

However, this journey was not without its obstacles and disappointments, notably with the Scottish First Book of Discipline. Mr. Morris elaborates on several of Knox’s frustrations, particularly with the position of superintendents, and the eventual triumphs and compromises he had to navigate while reforming the Scottish Church.

We also consider Knox’s experience with the “worship wars” in Frankfurt, and how his commitment to the regulative principle of worship evolved. At its core, this principle is an application of sola scriptura to worship, seeking only to require in worship that which is commanded in Scripture. Knox’s conviction here, despite the challenges, deeply influenced the trajectory of Presbyterianism.

Mr. Morris sheds light on Knox’s pastoral theology, opening our eyes to the complexities of historical and current worship practices. Tune in as we navigate this exciting journey into the past, appreciating the influences that continue to shape the contemporary Christian landscape.

Sean Morris is Associate Minister of Covenant PCA in Oak Ridge, TN and
Academic Dean of BRITE (Blue Ridge Institute for Theological Education) in Roanoke, VA.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:03:07 PCA General Assembly Highlights
• 00:12:57 John Knox and Presbyterianism
• 00:21:26 Exclusive Psalmody and Psalm Tunes
• 00:25:06 John Knox’s Biography and Church Context
• 00:32:19 Knox and Calvin
• 00:36:40 Toward a Regulative Principle of Worship
• 00:46:25 Knox and the Lord’s Supper
• 00:52:26 The Pastoral Work of the Session
• 00:59:24 Suggested Reading
• 01:05:21 Presbygirl Paparazzi
• 01:10:15 Conclusion

Suggested Reading

• Jane Dawson, John Knox
• Dictionary of Scottish Church History and Theology
• Knox Film Documentary
• Donald MacLeod, Therefore the Truth I Speak: Scottish Theology 1500–1700
• The Works of John Knox, Banner of Truth
• The First Book of Discipline
• The Second Book of Discipline

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Sean Morris

Dr. Jonathan Master speaks about his book, Reformed Theology (P&R Publishing), which is part of the Blessings of the Faith series edited by Jason Helopoulos. Master provides a concise and accessible introduction to the historic and orthodox Christian tradition of Reformed theology. In this book, he emphasizes the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, and the grace of salvation, while also demonstrating its biblical coherence and pastoral warmth. This resource is ideal for church leaders, study groups, and individuals who want a well-rounded overview of Reformed theology.

Jonathan Master is President of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary near Greenville, South Carolina.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 04:14 Update on Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
• 11:57 Reformed Theology
• 14:48 What Does It Mean to be Reformed?
• 24:52 Dr. Master’s Path to Becoming Reformed
• 28:49 The Intended Audience of the Book
• 32:48 The Role of Covenant Theology
• 41:01 Creeds and Confessions
• 45:13 Reformed Theology and the Ministry of the Holy Spirit
• 49:54 The Reformed Motivation for Missions and Evangelism
• 54:03 Conclusion

Links

• Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
• Theology on the Go podcast
• The Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals
• Carl Trueman, The Creedal Imperative

Select Publications by Jonathan Master

• A Question of Consensus: The Doctrine of Assurance After the Westminster Confession (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2015)
• The God We Worship, ed. (P&R Publications, 2016)
• On Reforming Worship, ed. with David Hall (Covenant Publications, 2018)
• Growing in Grace (Banner of Truth, 2020)

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master

Brian DeJong speaks about his biography of Arthur Franklin Perkins, a Presbyterian minister serving in Merrill, Wisconsin in the 1920s and 1930s. For his bold stand for truth, and against error and unbelief, Perkins was persecuted and prosecuted by his own Presbytery. Leaving the PCUSA in 1936, he became a constituting member of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and the convener and first moderator of its Presbytery of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. After suffering a nervous breakdown, he died on December 29, 1936. This is his tragic and triumphant story about standing against tyranny in his day and age.

Links

• Purchase the book on Amazon
• Watch the promotional video for the book
• Standing against Tyranny Conference videos
• Brian DeJong, “A History of Presbyterianism in Wisconsin” (Christ the Center episode 788)

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 03:08 Resources on Machen
• 06:24 Presbyterians in Wisconsin
• 13:00 Introduction to Arthur Perkins
• 19:00 Crescent Lake Bible Camp
• 24:35 The Nature of Church Power
• 30:02 Correspondence with Machen
• 33:52 Community Presbyterian Church in Merrill, Wisconsin
• 37:16 Perkins’ Health and Eventual Death
• 43:09 How to Get a Copy
• 47:50 Conclusion

Participants: Brian DeJong, Camden Bucey

On the 100th anniversary of the publication of Christianity and Liberalism, we consider J. Gresham Machen’s critique of the liberal theological perspective on Jesus Christ, contrasting it with the traditional, orthodox Christian view. Machen argues that liberal theology often misrepresents Christ as a mere teacher of righteousness and neglects his divine aspects and teachings. He counters that Christ is not merely an example, but the very object of Christian faith. He also challenges liberal theologians’ struggle to reconcile Jesus’s sinlessness with their evolutionary worldview and argues against a deistic view of God, advocating instead for theism which allows for both God’s works of creation and providence. Machen discusses the issue of miracles in relation to Christian faith, asserting that one cannot selectively believe in parts of Christ’s life, such as dismissing the virgin birth. Ultimately, Machen invites the reader to believe upon Christ as portrayed in Scripture.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 04:15 Reflecting on Machen and the Doctrine of Christ
• 10:47 Machen’s Writing Style
• 19:02 The Messianic Self-Consciousness
• 24:07 Modern Christologoy
• 32:16 Jesus Is Not a Mere Example but the Object of Faith
• 38:23 Miracles and the Supernatural Kingdom
• 44:41 Addressing Perennial Errors
• 48:40 Pastoral Considerations
• 56:34 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Lane G. Tipton

Join us as we explore the increasingly overlapping spheres of artificial intelligence (AI) and pastoral ministry. Our discussion uncovers both the promising opportunities and the intricate challenges presented by this cross-disciplinary synthesis, offering listeners a space for thoughtful reflection and critical analysis.

We begin by considering the ways in which AI could influence scholarly and pastoral work, discussing its potential to revolutionize sermon preparation, theological interpretation, and pastoral responsibilities. From enhancing exegesis through computational analysis to automated pastoral care systems, the conversation paints a picture of a possible future in which technology and theology are closely entwined.

However, the integration of AI into such deeply human and nuanced fields raises a multitude of ethical and philosophical concerns. Can an artificial system genuinely contribute to a process so rooted in personal insight and spirituality? Would reliance on AI for intellectual tasks promote laziness or engender a culture of plagiarism within the realm of theological scholarship? Furthermore, we ponder the risk of losing the essence of pastoral care—the human touch—in the wake of automated systems.

We invite you to join a thoughtful, in-depth exploration of the role AI could play in scholarship and pastoral ministry. For those curious about the intersection of technology, faith, and ethics, this discussion offers a chance to engage with a deeply fascinating and increasingly relevant topic.

Chapters

• 00:07 Thinking about Artificial Intelligence
• 01:17 Jim’s Course on John 1–10
• 07:17 Thinking about Artificial Intelligence
• 13:58 A Laymen’s Understanding of How Large Language Models Work
• 20:55 Ethical Issues with the Use of AI in Scholarship and Ministry
• 27:15 How AI Relates to Current Publishing Practices
• 32:11 The Use of Research Assistants in Scholarship
• 35:25 Situating AI amongst Other Tools
• 41:45 AI in Ministry
• 46:59 AI and Psychology
• 54:57 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey turn to pp. 63–67 of Cornelius Van Til’s The Defense of the Faith to discuss the Christian theory of knowledge. In this section, Van Til speaks of the effects of sin and its curse upon human knowledge.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:07 The Effects of Sin
• 00:21:08 God Is Self-Sufficient and Self-Complete
• 00:37:24 Aspects of Non-Christian Thought
• 00:48:40 The Contradiction of a Developing Absolute
• 00:56:57 Three Types of Consciousness
• 00:58:49 Kuyper and Common Grace
• 01:03:23 Conclusion

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

Brad Isbell joins Jim Cassidy, Ryan Noha, and Camden Bucey to preview the PCA General Assembly and its 50th Anniversary Celebration. After speaking about ecumenical relations and several overtures, the group gets into a “riveting” discussion regarding a semicolon in Westminster Confession of Faith 31.4.

Mr. Isbell is a ruling elder at Covenant PCA in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Along with @Wresbyterian, he hosts Presbycast.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:08:53 Reformed Forum 2023 Conference
• 00:09:52 PCA General Assembly
• 00:13:12 Ecumenical Relationships
• 00:18:10 More in the PCA
• 00:27:31 Overtures and Humble Petitions to the Civil Magistrate
• 00:43:05 Westminster Confession of Faith 31.4
• 00:51:52 Analyzing the Semicolon in WCF 31.4
• 00:58:36 Events at the PCA General Assembly
• 01:02:21 Conclusion

Participants: Brad Isbell, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Ryan Noha

Adam York speaks about discipleship in the book of Acts. As the church “beholds” the resurrected–ascended Christ by the proclamation of the apostolic word, it is empowered to bear witness to Christ even unto death, placing the world on trial while the church itself is tried by this world.

Rev. York is pastor of Hope OPC in Grayslake, Illinois.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 09:21 Discipleship in Acts
• 25:04 Stephen as Model Disciple
• 32:22 Paul as Model Disciple
• 39:45 Did Luke Get the Ending of Acts Wrong?
• 50:48 Conclusion

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey turn to pp. 58–63 of Cornelius Van Til’s The Defense of the Faith to discuss the Christian theory of knowledge. In this section, Van Til speaks of man’s knowledge of the world.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 08:29 Review Up to This Point
• 12:59 Man’s Knowledge of God and of His Environment
• 19:29 Human Knowledge Is Entirely Dependent upon God
• 22:29 Theology Proper and the Image of God
• 33:27 Types of Knowledge of God
• 41:29 Human Knowledge Can Be True though Never Comprehensive
• 43:39 Realism and Anti-Realism
• 52:39 The Mysterious Depth Dimension to All Human Knowledge
• 56:09 The Full Bucket
• 58:52 Conclusion

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

Mark Winder, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey discuss the relationship between hermeneutics and homiletics, focusing specifically on the preaching of Geerhardus Vos.

Links

• Proclaiming Christ
• Geerhardus Vos, Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:02:05 Hermeneutics and Homiletics
• 00:18:27 Sermon Forms and Contemporary Expectations
• 00:27:47 Preaching Occurs in Context
• 00:37:15 Sermons Are Not Theological Lectures
• 00:46:23 Directing toward Application
• 00:49:27 What Is Not Said Is Important
• 00:52:59 The Dominating Theme of a Sermon
• 00:56:16 Word Pictures and Illustrations
• 01:05:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Mark A. Winder

This is the 100th anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen’s book, Christianity and Liberalism. Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey speak with Alan Strange about the fourth chapter of Machen’s classic, which addresses the Bible.

In this chapter, Machen addresses those who would seek to maintain that what we hold in our hearts about Christ can remain true no matter what the facts of history actually show. These people subjectivize Christianity—making it a function of personal experience. Machen, however, emphasizes the importance of the historical fact of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection and the Bible’s inspired, inerrant, and infallible testimony to this work.

In the course of conversation, the panelists discuss several liberal theologians and the events in American Presbyterianism that led up to 1923, when Christianity and Liberalism was published. These include Friedrich Schleiermacher, Albrecht Ritschl, Wilhelm Herrmann, and the case of Charles Augustus Briggs.

Dr. Alan Strange is Professor of Church History and Theological Librarian at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana and an associate pastor at First Church (OPC) in South Holland, Illinois.

Links

• Alan Strange, The Doctrine of the Spirituality of the Church in the Ecclesiology of Charles Hodge
• Camden Bucey, Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers)
• Danny Olinger, Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theology, Confessional Presbyterian
• Mid-America Reformed Seminary’s Round Table podcast
• The OPC Ruling Elder Podcast
• New Horizons

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 02:12 Machen on the Bible
• 05:56 Liberalism and the Bible in 19th and 20th Century Presbyterianism
• 14:05 The Supernatural in History
• 17:41 Hodge and Liberalism’s Approach to the Bible
• 31:13 Machen, Hodge, and the Spirituality of the Church
• 33:52 Experience, Tradition, and Scripture
• 38:42 What Jesus Believes about Scripture
• 41:51 Addressing Liberals within the Church
• 50:22 Machen Thought the Liberalism Might Leave
• 52:42 Without the Bible, We are Left with Chaotic Anthropology
• 57:06 Conclusion

Participants: Alan Strange, Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

Join us on this episode of the podcast as we speak with Jim Zozzaro and Chris Byrd about the evangelism efforts of the Boardwalk Chapel in Wildwood, New Jersey. Established in the 1940s, the Boardwalk Chapel was founded with a vision to present the Gospel to the thousands of tourists that visit the Atlantic Ocean coastal resort town during the summer season.

The Boardwalk Chapel provides an excellent opportunity for evangelism training for those who seek to share the Gospel with others. During the summer months, the Boardwalk Chapel offers evangelism training to college-aged young people and paid summer interns. The training provides practical tools and strategies for sharing the Gospel with others effectively.

There are numerous opportunities to serve, attend, and be involved at the Boardwalk Chapel. From attending weekly services to participating in evangelism efforts, there is something for everyone to be involved in. The Boardwalk Chapel is a welcoming and supportive community that is committed to sharing the Gospel with others.

Pray for the leaders, staff, and evangelism efforts of the Boardwalk Chapel. The Boardwalk Chapel has several needs, including more staff for the summer and more people coming to the training weeks, specifically for the School of Evangelism.

Rev. James Zozzaro is pastor of Christ the King OPC in Cape May, NJ and director of the Boardwalk Chapel in Wildwood, NJ. Rev. Christopher Byrd is evangelist of Grace OPC in Westfield, NJ.

Links

• The Boardwalk Chapel
• Feature article, “The Boardwalk Chapel“

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 02:34 Becoming Acquainted with the Boardwalk Chapel
• 09:14 Painting a Picture of Ministry on the Boardwalk
• 17:21 Les Dunn and the Beginning of the Boardwalk Chapel
• 27:22 Recent Changes to the Ministry at Boardwalk Chapel
• 33:30 Evangelism and Apologetics Training that Extends to Other Fields
• 46:10 Confirming a Sense of Call
• 49:39 Current Needs at the Boardwalk Chapel
• 52:57 How to Get Involved
• 57:17 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Byrd, Jim Zozzaro

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey discuss ecclesiology and R. B. Kuiper’s classic book, The Glorious Body of Christ. They focus primarily on ecumenism and how different church bodies relate to one another. But the two also discuss the nature of church power and authority and the challenges involved in administering church discipline across denominational lines.

Links

• Minutes from the ninth General Assembly of the OPC (the reports of the committee begin on p. 28)

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:06:27 R. B. Kuiper’s The Glorious Body of Christ
• 00:19:23 The Spirituality of the Church
• 00:23:50 Church Power and Authority
• 00:27:28 Ecumenical Relations
• 00:38:34 Barriers to Ecumenical Relations between the CRC and OPC
• 00:49:18 Church Discipline across Denominations
• 00:59:14 When General Assemblies Err
• 01:03:05 Final Comments
• 01:05:32 Conclusion

We turn to pp. 309–310 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss aspects of the nativity. The convergence of the coming of Jehovah and the coming of the Messiah is found in Jesus Christ and revealed particularly at the time of the nativity. Two Old Testament roots support this convergence: the circle of Mary and Joseph, who stand in the line of David, and the circle of Zacharias and Elizabeth, where the idea of Jehovah’s coming prevails.

Additionally, Vos notes that the name “Jesus” means “Jehovah is Salvation,” signifying Jesus’ divine identity as the one who delivers his people from the guilt and power of sin. Finally, Vos emphasizes that the inclusion of the Gentiles into God’s covenant people is another important aspect of Jesus’ redemptive work revealed with the incarnation.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 01:31 The Coming of the Son of David
• 11:41 The Coming of the Lord
• 15:43 John the Baptist’s Ministry
• 21:45 The Name of “Jesus”
• 27:54 Simeon and the Inclusion of the Gentiles
• 36:42 Jesus Has No Earthly Father
• 39:52 Creation and Incarnation
• 50:09 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Dr. Gregory K. Beale, Professor of New Testament at RTS Dallas, returns to the program to speak about a wide array of topics touching upon the study of the Bible. After speaking about an exciting upcoming conference and workshop in Plano, Texas, Dr. Beale discusses developments in Old and New Testament studies over the last several decades, the nature of intertextuality and biblical theology, future areas ripe for new research, and research methods and tools.

Links

• Conference: Preaching and Teaching the New Testament Use of the Old Testament

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:08:27 Conference: Preaching and Teaching the NT Use of the OT
• 00:15:29 Developments in Scholarship
• 00:26:53 Intertextuality and Biblical Theology
• 00:35:59 Potential New Areas of Study
• 00:47:47 Hermeneutics and Homiletics
• 00:55:27 Study Methods and Tools
• 01:11:21 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Greg Beale

As a follow-up to his Reformed Academy course, Exploring 2 Peter: The Promise and the Path, Dan Ragusa joins Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha to discuss preterist views of 2 Peter 3 concerning the promise of new heavens and a new earth. After establishing the future orientation of the epistle, Dan provides a sketch of the history of preterist interpretations beginning with John Owen’s “Oriental” reading, noting the influence of Joseph Mede in the context of seventeenth-century Puritanism. He then turns his attention to modern-day exegesis of this chapter from leading partial preterists, exemplified by Peter Leithart’s commentary, The Promise of His Appearing: An Exposition of 2 Peter. Dan responds to Leithart’s “knock down arguments” by applying the eschatological pressure of the letter as a whole, all while directing listeners to the consummate, cosmic hope of the eternal kingdom that cannot be reduced to passing of the old covenant order in 70AD.

Links

• Jeffrey Jue, Heaven Upon Earth: Joseph Mede (1586–1638) and the Legacy of Millenarianism
• Jeffrey Jue, The Eschatological Views of the Westminster Divines (Christ the Center, episode 31)
• Peter Leithart, The Promise of His Appearing: An Exposition of Second Peter
• John Owen, “Sermons X–XII: Providential Changes, An Argument for Universal Holiness,” in The Works of John Owen, vol. 9, Sermons to the Church)
• Douglas Wilson, The New Heavens and the New Earth
• Dan Ragusa, The Day of the Lord (2): New Heavens and a New Earth (2 Pet. 3:8–13)

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:03:21 Updates about Reformed Forum
• 00:09:51 Preterism and 2 Peter 3
• 00:19:30 Our Blessed Hope
• 00:22:21 Preterist Interpretations of 2 Peter 3
• 00:31:22 Joseph Meade, John Owen, and the “Oriental Reading”
• 00:43:03 John Owen’s Other Interpretation of 2 Peter 3
• 00:47:46 Peter Leithart’s View
• 00:56:54 Vos’s Definition of Eschatology
• 01:07:32 The Imminent Language about Christ’s Return
• 01:17:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa, Ryan Noha

This is the 100th anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen’s book, Christianity and Liberalism. Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey speak with Lane Tipton about the third chapter of Machen’s classic, which addresses the relationship between God and man.

In this chapter Machen responds to the theological views of Schleiermacher and Von Harnack, which focus on religious experience rather than God’s supernatural acts in history. Machen argues that the doctrine of God and man revealed in Scripture is the basis for the gospel. It forms the presuppositional substructure of Christianity, to which modern liberalism is diametrically opposed. He affirms a natural knowledge of God in conscience and history. Jesus’ use of the words of prophets and psalmists reveals the character of God and gives significance to the Old Testament heritage of Jesus’ teaching. Machen envisions this revealed theology as the “root of Christianity,” not a natural religion, and one that rests on the teaching of the Old Testament as interpreted by Jesus Christ and his apostles.

Links

• D. G. Hart, Machen and the Presbyterian Controversy (YouTube playlist)
• Audio version of Christianity and Liberalism, chapter 3
• Lane Tipton, “Pantheism in Contemporary Scholarship” (video)

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:07:34 Machen and the Shorter Catechism
• 00:12:12 Schleiermacher and Von Harnack
• 00:30:15 Liberalism, Barthianism, and Knowing God
• 00:35:49 The Universal Fatherhood of God and the Universal Brotherhood of Man
• 00:44:54 The Problem with Liberalism’s Doctrine of God
• 00:53:00 Machen Considered Liberalism as Pantheistic
• 01:02:08 Christian Experience with the Living God
• 01:08:07 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Lane G. Tipton

This is the 100th anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen’s book, Christianity and Liberalism. Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey welcome D. G. Hart to discuss the second chapter of Machen’s classic, which addresses doctrine. The heart of the matter is that Christianity is a supernatural religion built on the fact that Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God, accomplished redemption for his people in history. Machen understood that both are essential: the supernatural and the fact that it occurs in history. Machen wrote:

But if any one fact is clear, on the basis of this evidence, it is that the Christian movement at its inception was not just a way of life in the modern sense, but a way of life founded upon a message. It was based, not upon mere feeling, not upon a mere program of work, but upon an account of facts. In other words it was based upon doctrine (Machen, Christianity and Liberalism, 20).

And from the beginning, the meaning of the happening was set forth; and when the meaning of the happening was set forth then there was Christian doctrine. “Christ died”—that is history; “Christ died for our sins”—that is doctrine. Without these two elements, joined in an absolutely indissoluble union, there is no Christianity (Machen, Christianity and Liberalism, 27).

Links

• OPC Ruling Elder podcast
• D. G. Hart, Machen and the Presbyterian Controversy (YouTube playlist)
• D. G. Hart, Machen’s Christianity and Liberalism (Christ the Center, episode 609)
• Audio version of Christianity and Liberalism, chapter 2

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

On the heels of teaching a course on Cornelius Van Til’s interpretation of the theology of Karl Barth, Lane Tipton speaks with Camden Bucey about Barth’s theology and the surprising architectonic similarities with features of Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:11:59 Van Til and Barth
• 00:15:16 Including Barth in an Apologetics Curriculum
• 00:22:00 Learning More about Barth This Time Around
• 00:29:52 Ecumenical Possibilities between Barth and Post-Vatican II Catholicism
• 00:47:15 Definitional vs. Systemic Agreement on Justification and Thomas Aquinas
• 00:55:16 Wood, The Whole Mystery of Christ: Creation as Incarnation in Maximus the Confessor
• 01:02:47 White, Trinitarian Theology
• 01:07:25 Machen, the Presbyterian Conflict, and the Afscheiding
• 01:22:27 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

We discuss Geerhardus Vos’s sermon on Hebrews 12:1–3, “Running the Race,” from his collection Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 01:11 Historical Context
• 06:06 Doctrine and Exhortation
• 18:05 A Cloud of Witnesses
• 21:19 The Imagery of Running
• 24:40 Union with the Ascended Christ
• 29:24 A Grumbling Spirit
• 38:27 Run the Race with Patience
• 45:23 The Sermon Ends on an Indicative
• 53:00 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Lane G. Tipton

Benjamin L. Gladd speaks about From the Manger to the Throne: A Theology of Luke, which is published by Crossway in the New Testament Theology series edited by Thomas R. Schreiner and Brian S. Rosner.

In the gospel, Luke demonstrates a rich knowledge of the Old Testament and points to Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection as the culmination of Old Testament prophecy. Dr. Gladd explains the dominant biblical-theological themes in Luke and demonstrates how drawing from the Old Testament, Luke affirms Christ’s long-awaited redemption.

Benjamin L. Gladd is professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi. He is the author of Handbook on the Gospels (Grand Rapids: Baker, 2021) and From Adam and Israel to the Church: A Biblical Theology of the People of God (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2019). Along with G. K. Beale, he is the co-author of The Story Retold: A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament (Downers Grove: IVP Academic, 2020). Dr. Gladd is also series editor for IVP’s Essential Studies in Biblical Theology and Baker’s Handbook on the New Testament.

Links

• Conference: Preaching and Teaching the New Testament Use of the Old Testament

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 00:41 Cultivating an Intellectual Life
• 14:53 Approaching this Project
• 20:54 Who Was Theophilus?
• 27:04 The Early Chapters of Luke
• 29:47 Titles for Jesus
• 33:17 The Theme of Reversal
• 38:54 An Apostolic Hermeneutic
• 40:12 The Exodus Theme in Luke
• 47:31 The Wilderness Theme in Luke
• 54:29 A Conference on the NT use of the OT
• 58:04 Conclusion

Participants: Benjamin Gladd, Camden Bucey

Brian DeJong explores the history of Presbyterianism in Wisconsin by focusing on several key figures in the development Presbyterian churches in the area.

In 1821, the Stockbridge Mohican Indians relocated to the Fox River area, just north of Appleton. These Indians had been under the Christian ministries of David Brainerd, Jonathan Edwards, and John Sergeant in Massachusetts. They eventually moved to the eastern shore of Lake Winnebago. The Rev. Jesse Miner came to minister among them in 1825. Later, Mr. Cutting Marsh served among them as well.

Rev. DeJong also describes the ministries of Rev. Moses Ordway and Stephen Peet in Green Bay and beyond and Peter Zonne in what is known today as Cedar Grove. Overall, we gain a sense of the pioneering mindset and strong commitment to missions and church planting among these early Wisconsin Presbyterians.

Links

• Henry Stephen Lucas, Netherlanders in America
• Robert P. Swierenga, Dutch Chicago: A History of the Hollanders in the Windy City
• Christ the Center episode 713, The Committee of Nine and Evangelicalism
• Stephen Peet, History of the Presbyterian and Congregational Churches and Ministers in Wisconsin
• Christ the Center episode 339, Dutch Immigration and American Presbyterianism
• Brian DeJong Sunday school lesson on Presbyterians in Wisconsin

Chapters

• 00:00:08 Introduction
• 00:05:01 Presbyterianism in Wisconsin
• 00:16:16 Edwards, Brainerd, and the Stockbridge Indian Tribe
• 00:26:20 Moses Ordway
• 00:35:57 Stephen Peet
• 00:44:58 Pieter Zonne
• 00:50:29 The OPC in Wisconsin
• 00:58:15 Takeaways from Studying Wisconsonites
• 01:06:57 Conclusion

Participants: Brian DeJong, Camden Bucey

Today we welcome Cory C. Brock and N. Gray Sutanto to speak about their book, Neo-Calvinism: A Theological Introduction (Lexham Academic), which is an excellent initiation and explication of neo-Calvinism as a nineteenth- and early twentieth-century movement in the Netherlands. It was “a revival of Reformed confessionalist theology in the Netherlands roughly beginning with the rise of Kuyper as a theology, with the founding of the Vrije Universiteit in 1880, the formation of the Gereformeerde Kerken in 1892, and its systematization in the theological output of Herman Bavinck (p. 4).”

Cory C. Brock is minister at St. Columba’s Free Church of Scotland in Edinburgh and adjunct lecturer in theology at Edinburgh Theological Seminary and Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi. Heh is the author of Orthodox yet Modern: Herman Bavinck’s Use of Friedrich Schleiermacher.

N. Gray Sutanto is assistant professor of systematic theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C., and the author of God and Knowledge: Herman Bavinck’s Theological Epistemology of God. He is an associate fellow at the Neo-Calvinism Research Institute.

Links

• Along with James Eglinton and Marinus DeJong, Drs. Brock and Sutanto host the Grace in Common podcast.
• N. Gray Sutanto, “Consummation Anyway” Journal of Analytic Theology, Vol. 9, Summer 2021

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:01:24 Grace in Common
• 00:04:26 Defining Neo-Calvinism
• 00:15:08 What Is “Neo” about Neo-Calvinism?
• 00:21:37 Grace Restores/Perfects Nature
• 00:32:13 Anonymous Neo-Calvinists
• 00:40:54 Catholicity and Ecumenicity
• 00:48:45 Worldview
• 01:00:34 Developing a Global View of Christianity
• 01:08:45 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cory Brock, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey discuss the preface and introduction to J. Gresham Machen’s book, Christianity and Liberalism. This is the 100th anniversary of the publication of this important work. In this episode, we discuss the historical circumstances that led Machen to address the Ruling Elders Association of Chester Presbytery. His address was eventually expanded to become this classic work.

Links

• Robert Tarullo’s audio recording of this chapter.
• J. Gresham Machen, “Liberalism or Christianity.” The Princeton Theological Review 20.1 (1922): 93-117.
• D. G. Hart, ed. J. Gresham Machen: Selected Shorter Writings
• D. G. Hart, Machen and the Presbyterian Controversy
• Lefferts Loetscher, The Broadening Church: A Study of Theological Issues in the Presbyterian Church Since 1869
• John Updike, “Pigeon Feathers“

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:01:55 The Significance of the Book
• 00:07:17 Historical Background
• 00:27:43 Conservatives and Moderates
• 00:40:19 Modernity
• 00:51:42 Modern Art, Science, and H. G. Wells
• 00:57:31 The Rights of Individuals
• 01:06:23 What Christianity Is
• 01:09:25 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

We turn to pp. 306–308 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with the nativity. From the various texts that range from the annunciation of the angel to Joseph to the prophecy of Anna, Vos takes the “characteristic features” of these narratives and arranges them in a topical manner.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 10:32 Continuity with the Old Testament
• 20:02 Revelation as an Organism
• 30:29 The New Redemptive Character of Revelation
• 36:04 The Absence of Political Aspects
• 47:18 The Absence of Legalism
• 53:37 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey bring in the New Year with a discussion of bible reading plans, tools, and strategies. They preview several of the projects that lay ahead at Reformed Forum, including a new course on the theology of Karl Barth. Dr. Cassidy introduces a list of recommended reading on Karl Barth and different interpretations of the theologian’s theology before speaking about Barth’s unique Christology.

Recommended Reading on Karl Barth

• Karl Barth, Church Dogmatics
• Karl Barth, Der Römerbrief; The Epistle to the Romans
• Cornelius Van Til, Christianity and Barthianism
• Cornelius Van Til, The New Modernism: An Appraisal of the Theology of Barth and Brunner
• James Cassidy, God’s Time for Us
• George Hunsinger, How to Read Karl Barth: The Shape of His Theology
• Bruce McCormack, Karl Barth’s Critically Realistic Dialectical Theology: Its Genesis and Development 1909–1936
• Bruce McCormack, “Grace and Being: The Role of God’s Gracious Election in Karl Barth’s Theological Ontology” in The Cambridge Companion to Karl Barth
• Eberhard Busch, Karl Barth: His Life from Letters and Autobiographical Texts
• Christiane Tietz, Karl Barth: A Life in Conflict (see also Christ the Center episode 730)
• Tyler J. Frick, Karl Barth’s Ontology of Divine Grace
• Bruce McCormack, The Humility of the Eternal Son: Reformed Kenoticism and the Repair of Chalcedon
• Paul T. Nimmo, Being in Action: The Theological Shape of Barth’s Ethical Vision

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 03:34 Giving Update
• 08:46 Reading Plans for the New Year
• 21:44 Introducing Karl Barth
• 26:06 Recommended Reading on Barth
• 35:04 Interpretations of Barth
• 46:51 Barth’s Christology
• 58:35 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Since 2008, we have been taking a beat around New Year’s Day to bring you some of the top moments from the preceding year. We have several great clips lined up for you today.

This was another encouraging year for us at Reformed Forum. We published four new courses. We also hosted our first two in-person courses (on Zephaniah and 2 Peter) and increased our online student base to 4,210 people (+11% over last year) in 84 countries (+13%).

But perhaps the highlight of the year was the publication of Lane G. Tipton’s book, The Trinitarian Theology of Cornelius Van Til. We believe this work is a significant advance in Reformed apologetic scholarship and will be read for decades to come.

Every Person Mature

Our mission is to support the church in her charge of presenting every person mature in Christ (Col. 1:28). In order to continue producing resources that benefit local churches at home and around the world in accord with this mission, we have launched the Every Person Mature campaign. Our goal is to raise $150,000 by the end of 2022 so that we may continue to provide free theological resources for your congregation and others like it around the world.

The good news is that we are nearly halfway there! A generous donor has committed to match all donations toward this cause up to $75,000. By donating to the Every Person Mature campaign, you will fund essential resources for believers who are hungry for confessionally Reformed resources.

Top Episodes

• Episode 745 — Van Til, Thomas Aquinas, and the Natural Knowledge of God with Lane Tipton
• Episode 764 — A God-Centered Approach to History with Vern Poythress
• Episode 761 — Van Til Group #8 — The Christian Philosophy of Knowledge with Carlton Wynne and Lane Tipton
• Episode 736 — John Owen, Jeremiah 31, and the Old Covenant with Carlton Wynne and Will Wood
• Episode 780 — 1689 Federalism and the Old Covenant with Jeremy Boothby, Carlton Wynne, and Lane Tipton
• Episode 762 — The Extra Calvinistic from Zwingli to Early Orthodoxy with K. J. Drake
• Episode 746 — Natural Theology and the Effects of Sin with Lane Tipton, Rob McKenzie, and Ryan Noha
• Episode 748 — Van Til Group #7 — Creation, Sin and Its Curse with Carlton Wynne and Lane Tipton
• Episode 772 — A Tale of Two Trees with Scott Wright
• Episode 752 — The Two Ages in Scripture with Adam York

Chapters

• 00:00:06 Introduction
• 00:05:32 Lane Tipton — Van Til, Thomas Aquinas, and the Natural Knowledge of God
• 00:11:35 Vern Poythress — A God-Centered Approach to History
• 00:20:01 Van Til Group #8 — The Christian Philosophy of Knowledge
• 00:26:14 Carlton Wynne — John Owen, Jeremiah 31, and the Old Covenant
• 00:34:20 Carlton Wynne, Jeremy Boothby, and Lane Tipton — 1689 Federalism and the Old Covenant
• 00:45:38 K. J. Drake — The Extra Calvinistic from Zwingli to Early Orthodoxy
• 00:51:16 Lane Tipton — Natural Theology and the Effects of Sin
• 00:56:23 Van Til Group #7 — Creation, Sin and Its Curse
• 01:09:09 Scott Wright — A Tale of Two Trees
• 01:14:15 Adam York — The Two Ages in Scripture
• 01:20:59 Conclusion

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Dan Ragusa, Jeremy Boothby, K. J. Drake, Lane G. Tipton, Rob McKenzie, Ryan Noha, Vern Poythress, Will Wood