Christ the Center

General Assemblies, Rome, and Artificial Intelligence

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Before today's episode, Camden Bucey shares four opportunities to gather with Reformed Forum in person over the coming months: Apologetics and Evangelism Seminar — August 4–5, 2026, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Taylors, SC. Camden Bucey and Carlton Wynne lecture on apologetics and evangelism for the pastor at the GPTS Summer Seminar. Details: https://reformedforum.org/event/apologetics-and-evangelism-seminar-greenville-sc/ Discovering Christ in All of Scripture — August 28–29, 2026, Cahaba Park Presbyterian Church, Birmingham, AL. A Friday evening and Saturday morning seminar exploring how every part of Scripture reveals God's redemptive plan in Jesus Christ. Details: https://reformedforum.org/event/birmingham-alabama-seminar/ 2026 Annual Theology Conference — September 25–26, 2026, Lakeland Church, Gurnee, IL. The Covenant of Grace: One Savior, One People, One Purpose, featuring Dr. G. K. Beale. Early-bird pricing ends August 31. Register: https://rf26.reformedforum.org/ Christ the Center 1000th Episode Celebration — February 19–20, 2027, Hilton Austin, Austin, TX. A live recording of episode 1,000, a shared dinner, and conversations with longtime friends of the ministry. Details: https://reformedforum.org/event/christ-the-center-1000th-episode-celebration/ Seats are limited — register today at https://reformedforum.org/events

Meeting God in His Means of Grace

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch or learn more at reformedforum.org/ctc967.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Lively Truths and Puritan Spirituality with Stephen Yuille

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Chapters

0:00 Introduction
0:33 Stephen Yuille and Reformation Heritage Books
2:24 Stephen Yuille’s ministry and Puritan publishing work
8:46 What gave rise to 90 Days with the Puritans
11:15 Five lively truths in Puritan spirituality
15:51 Biblical meditation and the Puritans
22:42 Thomas Manton as a guide to meditation
25:20 Holiness as beauty, not divine scowling
31:07 Beholding Christ without mysticism
36:10 Sin, holiness, and the doctrines of grace
39:12 Christ altogether lovely
45:53 Providence, affliction, and fatherly discipline
51:24 Death, glory, and the blessed hope
57:45 Closing thoughts and resources

Participants

Camden Bucey
Stephen Yuille

Resources mentioned

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Heaven Opened: Biblical Theology in the Gospels and Acts with Adam York

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Participants

Camden Bucey
Adam York
Randy Lee

Resources mentioned

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Global Theological Education and Faith-Centered Finance with Randy Lee and Adam York

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Participants

Camden Bucey
Randy Lee
Adam York

Resources mentioned

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Protestants and Patriots: Presbyterians in the Age of Revolution with D. G. Hart

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 01:00:00 -0400

We welcome Darryl G. Hart back to Christ the Center to discuss Protestants and Patriots: Presbyterians in the Age of Revolution, published by the University of Notre Dame Press. Hart traces the transatlantic story of Presbyterianism from the Reformation through the age of revolutions, asking why Presbyterian polity so often became a political irritant in Britain, Ireland, North America, and beyond.

The conversation ranges from Calvin’s Geneva and the French Reformed connection to the Scottish Covenanters, the English civil wars, John Witherspoon, the American founding, the 1788 revision of the Westminster Confession, and contemporary debates over Christian nationalism. Along the way, Hart helps us see how questions of church government, civil authority, establishment, liberty, and public memory are bound up with the church’s confession that Christ alone is head of his church.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction and the road to episode 1,000
2:00 Protestants and Patriots and the Presbyterian question
3:10 The project’s origins and teaching the big picture
5:12 Calvin’s ecclesiastical ordinances and Presbyterian polity
7:26 Was the American Revolution a Presbyterian revolution?
10:12 Lumpers, splitters, and Presbyterian identity
11:09 Reformed and Presbyterian: why the names matter
15:01 Presbyterians, nationalism, and the godly society
16:12 Covenanters, national covenanting, and regicide
19:31 Geneva, exiles, and the French connection
22:26 The true Presbyterian revolutionary moment: the 1630s and 1640s
24:21 Why Scotland became a Presbyterian laboratory
28:29 Why England and Scotland became Reformed rather than Lutheran
30:52 What did Presbyterians want? Church independence and state support
34:43 The Glorious Revolution, moderation, and establishment compromises
39:15 Regium donum, Canada, Ireland, and voluntary giving
42:34 John Witherspoon and Presbyterian moderation in the American founding
48:16 Revising Westminster Confession chapter 23
55:30 American Heretics, Two Sons of Oil, and anti-liberal Presbyterianism
60:30 Further conversations and Protestants and Patriots
65:05 Independence Hall, historic preservation, and public memory
70:07 Conclusion

Participants

Resources mentioned

Protestants and Patriots: Presbyterians in the Age of Revolution by D. G. Hart
University of Notre Dame Press interview with D. G. Hart
American Heretics by Jerome Copulsky
Two Sons of Oil by Samuel B. Wylie
Independence National Historical Park

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Act Like a Man: Biblical Masculinity with Matthew Adams

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Participants

Camden Bucey
Matthew Adams

Resources mentioned

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

The Nature of the Church with Matthew Vogan

Fri, 29 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants

Camden Bucey
Matthew Vogan

Resources mentioned

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

John Calvin as Counselor: Pastoral Wisdom from His Letters

Fri, 22 May 2026 08:41:00 -0400

We welcome Dr. Michael Mock to discuss his D.Min. dissertation on John Calvin's pastoral counseling through his correspondence. Drawing from Calvin's letters, Mock shows how the Reformer cared for people amid grief, anxiety, marital conflict, abuse, persecution, and suffering with theological depth and compassion. The conversation challenges the caricature of Calvin as cold or detached, highlighting his attention to the whole person—mind, heart, and will—and his confidence in God's providence, prayer, Scripture, and the ministry of the local church. Calvin's letters reveal a model of soul care that remains deeply relevant for pastors, elders, and church members today.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Confessional Reformed Renewal in Germany

Fri, 15 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Chapters

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

Cornelius W. Grafton: "Mississippi's Greatest Minister" (with David T. Irving)

Fri, 08 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Camden Bucey welcomes David T. Irving, President of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, for a rich conversation on Irving's dissertation, Mississippi's Greatest Minister: A Historical Study of Cornelius W. Grafton's 61-Year Pastorate, 1873–1934. Before turning to Grafton, they discuss Irving's recent transition into seminary leadership and the growing pastoral shortage across confessional Presbyterian churches, reflecting on the need for prayer, training, and laborers for Christ's harvest.

The heart of the episode explores the life and ministry of Cornelius W. Grafton, a remarkable Mississippi Presbyterian pastor whose decades of quiet faithfulness, denominational leadership, educational labor, and pastoral endurance left a deep mark on church life in the American South. Camden and David consider why Grafton has been largely overlooked, what his ministry reveals about ordinary pastoral faithfulness, and how his life still instructs ministers and churches today.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:08 Introduction and guest welcome
01:09 Mississippi's Greatest Minister and today's topic
02:03 RTS Jackson update and the pastoral shortage
08:20 David Irving's connection to Mississippi and Cornelius W. Grafton
14:06 Why Grafton has been overlooked in church history
18:14 Grafton's early religious life and spiritual maturation
23:58 Education, pastoral formation, and early ministry
29:33 Union Church, rural ministry, and a sixty-one-year pastorate
36:46 Grafton's preaching, pastoral rhythms, and churchmanship
43:18 Denominational leadership, education, and public influence
49:19 Grafton as historian and the unpublished history of Mississippi Presbyterianism
54:03 Lessons from Grafton's life and ministry today
59:09 Closing remarks and upcoming Reformed Forum events

Resources Mentioned

Participants: Camden Bucey, David T. Irving

Mentioned in this episode:

Join Us In Person: Four Upcoming Reformed Forum Events

Vos Group #108 — Kingdom and Church (The Finale)

Fri, 01 May 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this concluding installment of Vos Group's extended journey through Geerhardus Vos's Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton reflect on one of the most significant themes in Vos's account of redemptive history: the relationship between the kingdom of God and the church. Focusing especially on Matthew 16 and Jesus's promise, "I will build my church," they explain that Christ is not introducing an unrelated people, but bringing the covenant people of God into a new, eschatological mode of existence through his death, resurrection, ascension, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

The church is not a mere institutional add-on to the kingdom. Rather, in its inaugurated form, the church is the kingdom of God as constituted by the Spirit of the ascended Christ. The episode also explores the church's indestructible life, the meaning of the "gates of hell," the centrality of the means of grace, and the already/not-yet character of the kingdom's coming. Along the way, Camden and Lane also mark the end of this long-running series on Biblical Theology and preview the next phase of Vos Group on The Teaching of Jesus concerning the Kingdom of God and the Church.

Chapters

00:00:08 Introduction and Vos Group finale
00:01:06 Save the date for the 1,000th episode celebration
00:07:23 Transition from Biblical Theology to The Teaching of Jesus concerning the Kingdom of God and the Church
00:09:01 Matthew 16 and the meaning of "my church"
00:12:14 Continuity and redemptive-historical newness in the church
00:15:28 Pentecost, Acts 2, and the constitution of the church
00:21:56 The church after Christ's ascension and the new mode of life in the Spirit
00:29:23 The indestructible life of the kingdom and the gates of hell
00:35:29 The means of grace, preaching, and the keys of the kingdom
00:36:52 The nearness of the kingdom and inaugurated eschatology
00:42:10 The church is not merely instrumental to some higher kingdom purpose
00:49:20 The church as the kingdom of God in inaugurated form
00:53:20 Pilgrim identity and longing for consummation
00:56:42 Closing reflections and upcoming resources

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton

The Theology and Theologians of Scotland (w/Donald John MacLean)

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Donald John MacLean, President of Westminster Seminary UK and trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, for a rich conversation on James Walker's The Theology and Theologians of Scotland. Their discussion begins with an update on Westminster Seminary UK's move to Oxford and the remarkable ministry of the Reformed Colloquium in Budapest, where confessional Reformed believers from across Europe gather for fellowship, encouragement, and theological exchange.

The heart of the episode focuses on Banner of Truth's newly expanded edition of Walker's classic work. MacLean explains why the book has served for decades as an indispensable guide to the Scottish theological tradition, opening up figures beyond the better-known names and tracing major themes in church history, ecclesiology, providence, the atonement, and church-state relations. Together, Camden and Donald John reflect on the historical setting of Scottish theology, the value of Walker's new footnotes and translations, and the abiding importance of visible church unity and Christ's headship over his church.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

0:00 Introduction and episode overview
0:32 Donald John MacLean and the new Banner edition
2:25 Westminster Seminary UK and the Reformed Colloquium
10:17 Westminster Seminary UK's move to Oxford
16:07 James Walker and The Theology and Theologians of Scotland
19:01 The Cunningham Lectures and Walker's publication history
22:29 Why the new edition adds notes, biography, and sermons
26:20 Why Scottish theology still matters
27:42 Struggle, exile, and the international character of Scottish theology
29:29 Patristic influence and later shifts in Scottish scholarship
33:31 Providence, concurrence, and difficult doctrinal questions
37:26 The atonement, divine justice, and theological diversity in Scotland
40:06 The Marrow Controversy and covenant theology
43:54 Visible church unity and Scottish ecclesiology
51:14 Christ's headship, Erastianism, and church-state relations
55:16 Further reading in Scottish theology
57:40 Closing remarks

Resources Mentioned

The Theology and Theologians of Scotland, James Walker (Banner of Truth)
Westminster Seminary UK
The Whole Christ, Sinclair B. Ferguson
Scottish Theology, John Macleod
A Scottish Christian Heritage, Ian Murray
The Fifty Years' Struggle of the Scottish Covenanters, James Dodds

Participants: Camden Bucey, Donald John MacLean

Why Pastors Need Deep Theology and Real Friendship

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Chapters

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

This is Christ the Center episode 955 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc955)

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

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

Chapters

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

Vos Group #107 — Kingdom and Church

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton continue their study of Geerhardus Vos's Biblical Theology. Turning to Vos's treatment of the kingdom of God and the church, they explore the importance of Caesarea Philippi, Peter's confession, and Christ's promise, "I will build my church."

Lane explains why Vos sees this moment as a decisive redemptive-historical transition: the kingdom of God, proclaimed and embodied in Christ, begins to assume its ecclesial form. Together, Camden and Lane discuss the church as the kingdom in its present historical expression, the role of the Spirit poured out from the ascended Christ, and the distinction between the kingdom's inaugurated and consummated forms.

They also consider how Vos's teaching helps clarify ongoing theological questions concerning the kingdom of grace and glory, the already/not-yet structure of redemptive history, the thought of Meredith Kline, and the strengths and weaknesses of more recent reductionist or two-kingdom approaches.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and transition into Vos on the kingdom and the church
01:46 The kingdom as the sphere of blessedness
05:39 Caesarea Philippi as a redemptive-historical turning point
08:16 Peter's confession and "I will build my church"
10:26 The church as the kingdom in its present historical form
15:26 The kingdom in its inaugurated and consummated forms
18:10 The kingdom of grace and the kingdom of glory
22:32 Kline and the "heavenization" of the church
26:50 Two-kingdom theology and Christ's mediatorial reign
29:53 Reductionist views of the kingdom
36:30 The kingdom, the church, and redemptive-historical development
43:45 Measuring the kingdom's progress in the world
49:30 Final reflections and concluding thoughts

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

John L. Girardeau on Adoption: The Forgotten Glory of the Gospel | Jonathan Master and Matt Holst

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

Why has the doctrine of adoption received so little attention in Reformed theology?

In this live episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey is joined by Jonathan Master and Matt Holst at Shiloh Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, North Carolina, to discuss John L. Girardeau's rich and pastoral treatment of adoption. The conversation explores why adoption should not be collapsed into justification or regeneration, how it addresses our alienation from God, and why it matters so deeply for prayer, suffering, assurance, and the Christian life.

Along the way, the panel reflects on Girardeau's life and ministry, Adam's original sonship, Christ's filial obedience, the believer's inheritance in Christ, and the comfort of knowing God not only as Judge, but as Father.

This is a warm and theologically substantial discussion on one of the most beautiful and neglected doctrines in Scripture.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and live recording at Shiloh OPC
01:45 Why discuss John L. Girardeau on adoption?
03:12 Who was John L. Girardeau?
09:52 Why adoption is such an important doctrine
14:05 Why adoption has been neglected in Reformed theology
17:50 Courtroom and family room: justification and adoption
23:19 Adam's original sonship and what was lost in the fall
27:07 Christ's sonship and key Christological distinctions
33:14 The pastoral comfort of adoption
37:33 Adoption, suffering, and inheritance
41:17 God's name on his people and the hope of glory
43:24 How adoption transforms prayer
50:11 The Father's generosity toward his children
53:04 Final reflections and conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master, Matt Holst

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

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

Matthew Adams serves as Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Dillon, South Carolina. A native of Dillon County, he holds a B.A. in Religious Studies and Christian Counseling from Liberty University and an M.Div. from Erskine Theological Seminary, and he is pursuing doctoral studies at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte. In addition to his pastoral ministry, Adams serves as a council member for the Gospel Reformation Network and co-hosts the podcast Larger for Life.

Ben Ratliff serves as Associate Pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Cleveland, Mississippi. A native of Jackson, Mississippi, he earned a B.A. in Biblical Studies from Belhaven University and graduated from Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson in 2013. Before coming to Cleveland, he served at Providence PCA in Salisbury, Maryland, and later at churches in south Mississippi. Ratliff is also a co-host of the podcast Polity Matters, where helps lead conversations on Presbyterian polity and church government.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Ben Ratliff, Camden Bucey, Matt Adams

Jonathan Master | The History of Special Revelation: Geerhardus Vos and Reformed Biblical Theology

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this special crossover episode—recorded at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary—Camden Bucey joins Jonathan Master, President of Greenville Seminary, for a conversation on the life, method, and enduring relevance of Geerhardus Vos (1862–1949). Vos stands as a remarkable bridge figure: Dutch by birth, deeply shaped by continental Reformed theology and close friendship with Herman Bavinck, yet firmly planted in the American confessional Presbyterian tradition as the first chair of biblical theology at Old Princeton Seminary alongside B. B. Warfield.

Drs. Bucey and Master explore Vos's foundational distinction between biblical theology and systematic theology—and why both are indispensable for faithful exegesis and preaching. Biblical theology, which Vos himself preferred to call "the history of special revelation," reads Scripture as the organic, progressive unfolding of God's redemptive acts in history—from the protoevangelium in Genesis 3:15 to the consummation of all things in Christ. That redemptive-historical framework opens up notoriously difficult passages (Hebrews 6, the unforgivable sin) in ways systematics alone cannot. The conversation also covers Vos's two-age eschatology, his key works (Biblical Theology, The Pauline Eschatology, Grace and Glory, The Teaching of Jesus Concerning the Kingdom of God and the Church), and the question of why Vos remained at Princeton when Machen and others departed.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction: Camden at Greenville Seminary
1:08 Greenville Seminary Launches Confessional.org
3:47 Geerhardus Vos: Bridge Figure Between Princeton and the Continent
9:03 What Is Biblical Theology? The History of Special Revelation
13:49 Why We Need Both Biblical Theology and Systematics
16:33 "You Cannot Do Either Without the Other"
22:19 Why Did Vos Remain at Princeton?
27:48 Vos's Key Works
31:39 The "Vibe of Vos": Redemptive History in Practice
37:44 The Two-Age Eschatology: Already and Not Yet
40:33 Closing Remarks

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master

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

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Justin N. Poythress

The Eternal Son

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

Dr. Robert Letham joins Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey to discuss Dr. Letham’s recent book The Eternal Son (P&R Publishing). Their conversation presses into a simple but urgent claim: Christology is not a side department of theology—it is the living center. When the church loses clarity about who the Son is, the gospel itself becomes unclear because salvation depends on the identity of the Savior. They also explore why the church must listen carefully to the whole ecumenical tradition, especially the often-neglected debates after Chalcedon.

Dr. Letham explains why it matters that the acting subject in the Gospels is the eternal Son, who assumes a true human nature without change in his divine person. From there, they engage contemporary confusions—especially biblicism that isolates Scripture from the church’s confession—and they address the claim that Christ was “adopted” at the resurrection, showing how such proposals unravel both orthodox Christology and the gracious character of adoption for believers.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
02:04 This Book within the Trilogy
04:36 Christ and the Center of Christianity
11:05 Reading the Bible in Isolation
16:44 The Ecumenical Councils After Chalcedon
26:44 The Pre-Existent Son
30:24 Christology from Below
35:54 The Doctrine of Adoption
44:48 Twin Errors of Christology and Soteriology
53:15 An Exhortation to Re-Examine the Historical Confession of the Church
56:19 Conclusion

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

Cornelius Van Til’s Letters from America

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Dan Ragusa speaks about Letters from America (Reformed Forum). Between 1935 and 1940, Cornelius Van Til (1895–1987) wrote twenty-four letters from America for the Dutch magazine De Reformatie at the invitation of its editor Klaas Schilder (1890–1952). Daniel Ragusa’s translation presents these letters in English for the first time.

Letters from America opens a window into a critical moment in Reformed history—when orthodox and confessional Presbyterianism in America was under siege from both modernism and the rising influence of Barthianism, which Van Til labeled “the new modernism.” Ragusa introduces these letters by situating them within the broader relationship between the Dutch Reformed in the Netherlands and the orthodox Presbyterians in America—a relationship that reaches back to the seventeenth century.

Van Til’s wartime-like correspondences—written in the heat of theological conflict—offer a firsthand account of the spiritual and ecclesiastical upheavals of the era. Through Van Til’s eyes, fixed steadfastly on his risen and reigning Lord, readers witness pivotal moments in American Presbyterian history, among them J. Gresham Machen’s trial, deposition, and sudden death; the founding of Westminster Theological Seminary and the evangelistic work of its graduates; and the formation of the Presbyterian Church of America and its subsequent renaming as the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.

These letters bring to life a pivotal chapter in the defense and development of the Reformed faith that helps us to make sense of our present ecclesiastical and theological landscape.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:06:13 Upcoming Seminar in Raleigh, NC
00:09:29 Dr. Ragusa’s Introduction to Van Til’s Dutch Letters
00:20:54 Van Til’s Concern for the Church
00:29:16 Highlights of the Letters
00:36:19 Van Til’s Hope for the Church
00:42:38 The Afscheiding (Secession) of 1834
00:57:46 A Vision for the Future of the Church
01:06:05 Remaining Faithful Today
01:12:15 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa

Vos Group #106 — Repentance

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 07:22:00 -0400

In this episode, we continue engaging Geerhardus Vos’s treatment of repentance and the righteousness of the kingdom. The discussion begins by clarifying the close relationship between faith and repentance: Both are saving graces, sovereignly gifted by God, inseparably joined in conversion, yet not identical. Faith uniquely receives and rests upon Christ for justification, while repentance—though necessary—never functions as the instrument of union with Christ or the ground of God’s verdict. This careful distinction protects the gospel from subtle moralism and keeps repentance in its proper place as fruit flowing from mercy apprehended in Christ.

Vos then situates repentance within Jesus’ proclamation of the kingdom: Repentance corresponds to the kingdom’s righteousness-aspect, just as faith corresponds to its power-aspect. Repentance is not a meritorious condition for entry, but the moral-spiritual “fitness” that belongs to life under God’s righteous reign. The episode explores Vos’s “vernacular of repentance” in the Gospels—regret, inner reversal, and outward turning—showing that biblical repentance is comprehensive, God-centered, and transformative. Far from mere remorse or isolated moral adjustment, repentance is a whole-life reorientation toward God, forming a people whose inner and outer life increasingly reflects the righteousness of the kingdom.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 2026 Raleigh, NC Seminar
02:19 Introduction
04:40 Faith and Repentance
11:42 The Connection to the Kingdom of God
16:05 The Logical and Instrumental Priority of Faith
22:19 Aspects of the Kingdom
32:47 The Vernacular of Repentance
37:05 The Universal Demand of Repentance
46:36 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Thy Word Is Truth: Scripture's Authority, God's Character, and Worship That Follows

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

This is Christ the Center episode 945 (https://reformedforum.org/podcasts/ctc945/)

Irenaeus of Lyons

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode we welcome church historian Stephen O. Presley to explore the life, theology, and enduring relevance of Irenaeus of Lyons. Writing in the latter half of the second century, Irenaeus emerges not merely as a polemicist against Gnosticism but as a deeply pastoral theologian—one whose doctrine, biblical interpretation, and ecclesial commitments were inseparably bound to the life of the church.

Presley highlights Irenaeus’s vision of Scripture as a unified, Christ-centered story, summed up in his doctrine of recapitulation: All things find their meaning, coherence, and redemption in Christ, the true head of humanity. Against both ancient Gnosticism and modern disembodied spiritualities, Irenaeus affirms the goodness of creation, the integrity of the human person, and the necessity of catechesis rooted in the rule of faith. For today’s church—navigating doctrinal confusion, cultural fragmentation, and questions of discipleship—Irenaeus offers a compelling model of theological method that is biblical, confessional, pastoral, and profoundly Christ-centered.

Dr. Stephen O. Presley is Director of Education and Engagement and Senior Fellow for Religion and Public Life at the Center for Religion, Culture and Democracy and Associate Professor of Church History at Southern Seminary. He is the author of Irenaeus of Lyons: His Impact and Life (Christian Focus) and Cultural Sanctification: Engaging the World like the Early Church (Eerdmans).

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
01:47 The Center for Religion, Culture, and Democracy
04:48 How to Pronounce Irenaeus
08:48 The Early Church
13:31 Irenaeus as a Church Theologian
16:00 The Rule of Faith
20:36 Reading Scripture
26:11 Recapitulation
30:18 Against Gnosticism
33:38 Christ as the New Adam
44:07 Surprises While Writing the Book
46:39 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Stephen Presley

Vos Group #105 — Our Lord’s Critique of Jewish Ethics

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton discuss a deceptively brief but theologically weighty section of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology, exploring Jesus’s critique of first-century Jewish ethics. Far from addressing merely surface-level moral failures, Vos shows that Jesus exposes a deeper religious collapse—one marked by practical deism and pervasive self-centeredness. When God’s glory is displaced as the center of ethical life, obedience becomes external, fragmented, and ultimately irreligious.

This conversation presses the listener to consider how these same distortions reappear across church history and into the present—whether in moralistic fundamentalism, liberal Protestant ethics, or debates surrounding the New Perspective on Paul. The antidote Vos commends is not tighter rules or refined casuistry, but a recovery of true religion: life coram Deo, grounded in union with Christ, animated by delight in God himself as our supreme reward. In Christ, obedience is restored to its proper place as worship, flowing from grace rather than self-reliance.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
07:32 Jesus’s Critique of Jewish Ethics
18:07 Common Distortions of Ethics
32:55 Modern Expressions of the Same Error
40:46 Von Harnack and the Essence of Christianity
44:08 The New Perspective on Paul
49:35 The Antidote
52:28 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

William Whitaker and the Reformed Doctrine of Scripture

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Josiah Leinbach to discuss William Whitaker’s A Disputation on Holy Scripture—a monumental sixteenth-century defense of sola Scriptura, newly edited and republished by Prolego Press. Written in 1588 against leading Roman Catholic theologians such as Robert Bellarmine, Whitaker’s work offers a comprehensive treatment of Scripture’s authority, canon, clarity, and sufficiency. Leinbach explains how Whitaker combined Renaissance humanism with scholastic rigor, engaging Scripture, church history, and patristic sources to show that Protestant convictions about Scripture were neither novel nor reactionary, but deeply rooted in the catholic tradition of the church.

The conversation also explores the modern relevance of Whitaker’s work—especially amid contemporary debates over authority, tradition, and ecumenism. Leinbach reflects on how advances in historical and textual scholarship have confirmed many of the Reformers’ arguments, while Rome’s own positions have shifted over time. Whitaker’s insistence on the perspicuity of Scripture, the singular infallibility of God’s Word, and the Spirit’s inward testimony offers not only apologetic clarity but deep pastoral comfort. This episode invites listeners to recover confidence in Scripture as God’s clear and sufficient means of revealing Christ to his people.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
01:08 William Whitaker’s A Disputation on Holy Scripture
07:25 Leinbach’s Transition from History to Machine Learning
18:10 Whitaker’s Polemical Approach
22:03 The Canon of Scripture
25:50 The Perspicuity of Scripture
28:29 Biblical Authority
32:02 The Testimony of the Holy Spirit
35:27 Ecumenical Dialogue Yesterday and Today
48:10 Future Works
52:25 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Josiah Leinbach

Resurrection and Redemption

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Camden Bucey and Marcus Mininger reflect together on Resurrection and Redemption by Richard B. Gaffin Jr.—a work that has profoundly shaped Reformed biblical theology over the past half century. Rather than offering a technical review, the conversation unfolds as a guided meditation on the book’s central claim: Christ’s resurrection is not a theological afterthought but the controlling center of Paul’s soteriology and eschatology. Gaffin’s careful exegesis helps readers see how redemption is inseparable from resurrection life in union with the risen Christ.

This discussion is part of Reformed Forum’s broader effort to offer conversational commentaries on formative Reformed texts—books that have formed us as pastors and theologians. Bucey and Mininger highlight why Resurrection and Redemption remains so enduringly fruitful: It teaches the church to think biblically about salvation, not as a static transaction, but as participation in the resurrected life of Christ. The result is theology that serves the pulpit, strengthens assurance, and orients the Christian life toward the hope of glory already secured in the risen Lord.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:01:56 International Cohorts and Reading Guides
00:10:31 Encountering Resurrection and Redemption
00:16:15 The Title and Purpose of the Book
00:26:18 The Discipline of Biblical Theology
00:32:56 Paul as Theologian
00:51:23 Redemptive-Historical Epochs
00:59:44 The Occasional Nature of Paul’s Writings
01:08:27 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Marcus Mininger

Recovering John L. Girardeau: A Giant of Southern Presbyterianism

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:00:00 -0400

Dr. C. N. Willborn, pastor of Covenant PCA in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, speaks about the life, ministry, and enduring theological legacy of John Lafayette Girardeau—a figure often hidden in the shadow of Thornwell and Dabney, yet towering in pastoral warmth, covenant theology, and confessional clarity. Girardeau emerges as a remarkably gifted scholar, a pastor deeply loved by both enslaved and free Black congregants, and a theologian who married doctrinal precision with heartfelt pastoral care. Through stories of his early intellectual formation, his ministry at Zion Presbyterian Church, his courageous stand against segregation in 1874, and his role in shaping debates on adoption, the will, worship, and evolution controversies, listeners gain a moving portrait of a man captivated by Christ and devoted to the communion of the saints.

This episode invites us to look beyond caricatures of Southern Presbyterianism and see a pastor who was shaped by his Huguenot and Scottish heritage, attentive to the spiritual well-being of the marginalized, and unwavering in his conviction that the church must be governed by Scripture and formed by a robust federal theology. Girardeau’s story not only expands our understanding of American Presbyterian history—it encourages believers today to pursue ministry marked by doctrinal fidelity, Christ-centered preaching, and sacrificial love.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:16 Introduction
03:28 Introducing John L. Girardeau
24:49 French Huguenot Background
31:48 Academic Abilities
42:29 Girardeau’s Relation to the Church After the War
49:44 Significant Motions and Statements
56:05 Opposition to Segregation at the 1874 General Assembly
1:00:19 Influence upon Southern Presbyterianism
1:05:19 The Battle over Evolution
1:11:21 Works by Girardeau
1:21:59 Conclusion

Highlights from 2025

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

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

The Shorter Catechism and Confessional Revision

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this conversation from Austin, Jim Cassidy, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey reflect on the abiding value of the Westminster Shorter Catechism as a tool for cultivating a God-centered, covenantally rich, and confessionally rooted Christian life. The discussion highlights Jim’s new book, Introducing the Faith: A Study of the Westminster Shorter Catechism, which serves as a written complement to his two free Reformed Academy courses through which he teaches the Shorter Catechism (Questions 1–38 and Questions 39–106). Together, the hosts trace their own histories with the Standards, demonstrating how catechesis shapes believers in the chief end of man—to glorify and enjoy God forever. They also explore how the catechism’s covenant theology anchors the church in biblical teaching, safeguarding the glory of God amid contemporary pressures.

The discussion turns to the weighty task of confessional subscription—its history, responsibilities, and the risks of revision. With pastoral clarity and historical attentiveness, the hosts encourage churches and teachers to handle their confessions with both gratitude and vigilance. The episode concludes with a look at the ongoing mission of Reformed Academy and the resources being developed to strengthen the church in catechesis and confessional fidelity.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Setting the Scene in Austin
03:14 Why Catechesis Matters Today
09:12 Personal Histories with the Westminster Standards
16:47 Man’s Chief End and the God-Centered Life
20:44 Covenant Theology in the Catechism
26:22 Guarding the Glory of God in Reformed Theology
31:48 Confessional Revision: History, Risks, and Responsibilities
57:47 Looking Ahead: Resources and the Mission of Reformed Academy

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

Vos Group #104 — Divine Sovereignty and the Sphere of Righteousness

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this installment of Vos Group, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton explore pages 392–395 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology and his rich, God-centered understanding of righteousness within the kingdom of God. They emphasize that true righteousness is never a human-centered moral construct but is rooted entirely in the character, will, and sovereign rule of the triune God. Vos contrasts biblical righteousness with pagan and modern distortions that treat ethics as merely horizontal or civic. Instead, righteousness is what agrees with, pleases, and exists for God—meaning believers live every moment coram Deo, before His face, in covenant fellowship.

The episode also unpacks how righteousness relates organically to the coming of God’s kingdom: it is concurrent with God’s reign, a gift worked by the Spirit, and graciously rewarded for Christ’s sake. Camden and Lane draw out the pastoral comfort that Christ—who possesses unlimited dominion—reigns not only from heaven but also within the hearts of His people. This kingdom reality transforms daily obedience into worship, participation in God’s redemptive purposes, and hopeful anticipation of our final inheritance in Him.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
08:49 Righteousness Is God-Centered
16:42 Living Before the Face of God
28:03 The Kingdom of God and Righteousness
32:45 Participating in the Kingdom
40:52 Righteousness and God’s Sovereign Rule
43:55 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Understanding the Doctrine of Repentance

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Harrison Perkins speaks about his new book A Penitent People: The Doctrine of Repentance (Christian Focus). Perkins brings the warmth of pastoral ministry together with the clarity of confessional Reformed theology. He explains that repentance is often misunderstood—as if it were a dreary duty or an entrance requirement for grace. Instead, Scripture presents repentance as a saving grace, a divine gift through which Christ frees his people from sin’s enslaving power and draws them into renewed joy. Repentance is not the price we pay to come to Christ; it is the fruit of having already been brought to Him by the Spirit through faith.

Together they explore key biblical passages (Psalm 51, Psalm 38, 2 Corinthians 7, Luke 3), the Reformed confessions, unhealthy distortions of penance, and the pastoral challenge of helping people see repentance not as a terror but as a mercy. Repentance doesn’t merely involve feeling guilty—it involves embracing Christ, turning from sin, and tasting the joy that accompanies renewal. They also discuss what a repentant church culture looks like: a community marked by humility, honesty, grace, and a shared approach to the Lord’s Table as those who come on equal footing—sinners saved by a gracious Redeemer.

Harrison Perkins (PhD, Queen’s University Belfast; MDiv, Westminster Seminary California) is the pastor of Oakland Hills Community Church in Farmington Hills, Michigan. He is the author of Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction (Lexham Press 2024), Catholicity and the Covenant of Works (Oxford University Press, 2020), Righteous by Design: Covenantal Merit and Adam’s Original Integrity (2024), Created for Communion with God: The Promise of Genesis 1–2 (Lexham Press, 2025), and a number of popular and academic articles. He regularly writes articles for Heidelblog and Modern Reformation.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

0:00:07 Introduction
0:10:03 Background to the Book
0:16:22 Reframing Our Understanding of Repentance
0:20:39 The Joy of Repentance
0:24:35 The Reformed Confessions on Repentance
0:37:17 Psalms 38 and 143
0:43:26 Bearing Fruit in Keeping with Repentance
0:48:15 Distinguishing Fruits of Repentance from Acts of Penance
0:53:28 Illustrations of Repentance
1:00:41 Exodus 24, Covenant, and the Repentant Community
1:06:45 Hope for Readers of This Book
1:12:06 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Harrison Perkins

Redemptive-Historical Themes in Job and 2 Peter

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Reformed Forum is happy to introduce a major new publishing initiative: the Redemptive-Historical Bible Studies series. In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey is joined by Ryan Noha, Jim Cassidy, and Dan Ragusa to discuss how these resources embody Reformed Forum’s vision for accessible, Christ-centered theological education.

This series begins with two volumes—Jim Cassidy’s The Book of Job: Suffering unto Glory and Dan Ragusa’s Exploring 2 Peter: The Promise and the Path—each drawn from Reformed Academy courses. Designed for adult Sunday schools and small groups, these studies help readers encounter Christ in every book of Scripture. Rooted in the conviction that all Scripture testifies to the sufferings and glories of Christ, these studies move beyond mere grammatical-historical observation to unfold the redemptive unity of God’s Word.

Together, these books and their free companion courses mark the beginning of Reformed Forum’s long-term plan: to produce faithful, Christ-centered studies for all sixty-six books of the Bible—so that the church may mature in Christ through the Word.

The Book of Job: Suffering unto Glory (Redemptive-Historical Bible Studies)

$12.99

Cassidy, James J. New paperback.

In stock

Exploring 2 Peter: The Promise and the Path (Redemptive-Historical Bible Studies)

$12.99

Ragusa, Daniel. New paperback.

In stock

Build your complete series and save big!

The Book of Job: Suffering unto Glory (Redemptive-Historical Bible Studies)

Cassidy, James J. New paperback.

Add for

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

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn

Vos Group #103 — Faith in the Gospel of John

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton explore Geerhardus Vos’s profound treatment of faith in the Gospel of John (pp. 390–392 of Biblical Theology). Vos unfolds faith not as an abstract belief but as a living, continuous union with the incarnate and ascended Truth—Jesus Christ Himself. John’s theology binds faith and truth together: the Son comes down from heaven as the true light, true bread, true vine, and the Truth (John 1:9; 6:32; 15:1; 14:6). Faith, therefore, is a Spirit-wrought communion with the heavenly reality revealed in Him.

Tipton and Bucey trace how this Johannine vision lifts believers from the shadowy worship of the old covenant to true, eschatological worship “in spirit and in truth.” Faith beholds Christ even now, anticipating the beatific vision. In contrast to philosophical or impersonal notions of truth, Vos insists that truth is personal, Trinitarian, and heavenly—rooted in the self-revealing God. Thus, saving faith is not blind trust but an intimate, knowing participation in the life of the risen Christ, a foretaste of the age to come.

New Book by Lane Tipton: Introduction to the Theology and Apologetics of Van Til

We are pleased to announce the release of an important new book, Introduction to the Theology and Apologetics of Van Til by Lane Tipton. This is the first in a scheduled eight-part series of books on Van Til that correspond to our Fellowship in Reformed Apologetics.

Dr. Tipton has taught eight video courses that work through the entire range of Van Til’s theology and apologetics. Each of the courses is available for free through Reformed Academy and on YouTube. And now you can get the first book in the series.

If you order by November 30, 2025 and you can get the second book in the series, The Trinitarian Theology of Cornelius Van Til for only $4.99!

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
01:44 New Book: Introduction to the Theology and Apologetics of Cornelius Van Til
11:11 Faith in the Gospel of John
16:19 Defining Truth According to the Son
26:49 Heaven and the Truth
29:44 The Typological Dimension of Truth
34:32 Faith as the Human Relation to Truth
37:35 Faith Anticipates the Glorified Christ
40:56 Faith, Unbelief, and Knowledge
44:25 Faith and Beholding the Lord
46:48 Scripture and the Truth
52:00 The Need for More Redemptive-Historical Study in John
57:40 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Shape of Faithful Ministry: Doctrine and Confessional Integrity

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master

Meredith G. Kline’s Biblical-Theological Reading of the Book of Revelation

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Camden Bucey speaks with Danny Olinger, General Secretary of the OPC Committee on Christian Education, about his new book Christ and His Church-Bride: Meredith G. Kline’s Biblical-Theological Reading of Revelation (Reformed Forum).

Olinger traces how Kline’s covenantal and redemptive-historical reading of Revelation portrays the church’s transformation into the radiant Bride of Christ, moving from imperfection and suffering in the present age to consummate glory in the new creation. The discussion unfolds key themes of recapitulation, the conflict between Babylon and the Bride, and the covenantal drama of creation to consummation.

Through rich historical and exegetical reflection, Olinger shows how Kline weaves together Genesis, Daniel, Zechariah, and Revelation to present a unified vision of redemptive history centered on Christ’s victory and the Spirit’s work in the church. The conversation is both theologically rigorous and pastorally hopeful—reminding listeners that Christ reigns now, the church’s pilgrim identity is secure, and the gospel’s progress continues unthwarted by the powers of this world.

Christ and His Church-Bride: Meredith G. Kline’s Biblical-Theological Reading of The Book of Revelation

$49.99

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Book Announcement
06:27 Origins of the Book and Rediscovery of Kline’s Revelation Paper
11:19 Kline’s Covenant Drama: Creation to Consummation
20:55 Understanding Recapitulation in Revelation
26:24 The Deeper Conflict: The Woman, the Dragon, and the Church
31:18 The Church Imperfect and Perfected in Glory
34:25 The Armageddon Paradigm and Covenant Mount
37:51 Christ and His Church-Bride: Theological and Pastoral Heart
48:13 The New Jerusalem and the Covenant of Grace
53:09 Suffering, Sanctification, and the Bride’s Purification
57:07 Babylon vs. the Bride: The Church’s Pilgrim Calling
01:01:02 Christ Reigns Now: Hope for the Pilgrim Church
01:04:29 Closing, Resources, and Final Reflections

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

Why Fixed Truth and Faithful Worship Matter

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Marc Harrington

Christ of the Consummation: Acts and Paul

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Dr. O. Palmer Robertson joins Camden Bucey to discuss his newest book, Christ of the Consummation, Volume 2: The Testimony of Acts and Paul. Building on the legacy of Geerhardus Vos, Robertson shows how the testimony of the early church—empowered by the Spirit—proclaimed Christ to Jew and Gentile alike.

From Pentecost to Paul’s missionary journeys, from household baptisms to soaring prison epistles, this episode traces the redemptive-historical unfolding of God’s Word. Robertson explains why biblical theology is the vital “nerve system” connecting exegesis and doctrine, how Paul’s letters fall into three key phases, and why every New Testament book points us to the hope of Christ’s return.

Whether you’re a pastor, student, or simply longing to see Christ in all of Scripture, this conversation will encourage you to persevere in faith, proclaim the Gospel with confidence, and live with expectant hope of His coming.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
07:02 Describing Biblical Theology
10:37 The Book of Acts
12:25 The Inclusion of the Gentiles
21:02 The Historical Progression of Paul’s Letters
26:14 Paul’s Eschatology
32:51 Deep Theology and Practical Application
35:47 The Expectation of Christ’s Return
41:35 The Original Apostolic Witnesses
52:27 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, O. Palmer Robertson

Vos Group #102 — Faith as Related to the Kingdom’s Power

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this installment of Vos Group, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton explore Geerhardus Vos’s treatment of “faith as the correlate of kingdom power” from pages 387–390 of Biblical Theology. Moving beyond vague spiritualism or self-generated “manifestation,” they unpack Vos’s insight that faith is not a creative force but a receptive grace. Faith does not actualize the kingdom—it receives it.

Christ’s miracles reveal the omnipotent power of God in redemptive form—beneficent and gracious acts for the good of sinners. These miracles elicit trust not because of any magical quality in faith itself, but because they manifest the glory and compassion of the Redeemer who speaks them into being. Faith, then, is the Spirit-given response of the regenerate heart—a resting and receiving upon the miracle-working Christ who is both the author and perfecter of our faith.

In contrast to modern distortions that treat faith as self-empowerment, Vos directs us to the true object of faith—Christ alone. Faith is entirely dependent on divine omnipotence and grace. It is the instrument by which we are united to Christ and brought to maturity in him, sustained by the same omnipotent power that once stilled the storm and raised the dead.

Watch on YouTube

00:07 Introduction
06:32 Faith and the Kingdom
10:13 Faith Is the Corresponding Response to God’s Power
12:26 Miracles Are Beneficent and Elicit Trust
16:57 The Power of the Word
22:59 The Elements of Saving Faith
29:12 Unbelief
34:24 Preaching Christ without Doctrine
37:01 The Offense of Unbelief
41:36 The Vocabulary of Faith
50:30 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

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

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

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

Reformed Confessionalism

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

Topics include:

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Blair Smith, Camden Bucey

Paradox People: Learning to Live the Beatitudes

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

What does it mean to be truly blessed in the kingdom of God? In this episode, Camden Bucey welcomes back pastor and author Jonathan Cruse, pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (Orthodox Presbyterian Church) in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to discuss his latest book, Paradox People: Learning to Live the Beatitudes (P&R Publishing). Together they explore how Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:3–12 turns worldly expectations upside down—and how the Beatitudes offer not a checklist for salvation, but a portrait of Christ and those united to him by faith.

Drawing from pastoral experience and theological insight, Cruse explains how the Beatitudes call Christians to a counterintuitive life: one of meekness, mourning, mercy, and spiritual hunger. Yet far from being burdensome, this vision of kingdom living flows from the grace already secured in Christ. The conversation also touches on inaugurated eschatology, Christian distinctiveness in the culture, and how the Beatitudes equip believers to live faithfully as pilgrims between two ages.

Listeners will be encouraged to see the Beatitudes not just as commands, but as Christ-centered comfort—anchoring our present obedience in a certain future hope.

Don’t forget to register for the Reformed Forum Theology Conference on September 27, 2025: reformedforum.org/conference

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

0:00 Word & Deed
2:19 Introduction
9:35 The Heart of the Beatitudes
15:08 The Present Needs and the Applicability of the Beatitudes
18:24 It Begins with Blessings Not Commands
21:52 Christ Has Lived the Beatitudes
26:58 The Future Orientation of the Beatitudes
31:32 Pursuing Holiness
34:32 Struggling with the Beatitudes
41:02 Driving in the UK
44:15 Being Salt and Light
50:04 Resources on the Sermon on the Mount
54:15 Upcoming Projects
59:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Landry Cruse

Vos Group #101 — The Essence of the Kingdom

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:00:42 -0400

In this installment of the Vos Group, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton continue their deep dive into Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. Together they explore Vos’s treatment of the essence of the kingdom of God (pp. 385–387), drawing connections to his “Doctrine of the Covenant in Reformed Theology.”

This conversation highlights Vos’s thoroughly theocentric vision—where creation, redemption, and faith all center upon the glory of God. Dr. Tipton unpacks how this framework distinguishes Reformed theology from other traditions, and how the kingdom manifests historically through the power of the Holy Spirit. The discussion further shows how Vos integrates covenant, kingdom, and eschatology, pointing us to our inheritance in Christ and the glory of God as our ultimate portion.

Whether you are a pastor, student, or thoughtful layperson, this episode will help you see more clearly how Vos unites themes of covenant and kingdom in a way that sharpens our understanding of Christ and strengthens our hope in his coming reign.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

0:00 Word and Deed
2:19 Introduction
7:29 Vos on the Doctrine of the Covenant
20:10 Jesus’ Use of the Term “the Kingdom of God”
30:15 Power Is Central to the Kingdom of God
33:36 The Role of the Spirit in the Kingdom
48:36 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Impossible to Be Restored? Temptation and Warning in the Epistle of Hebrews

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

The warning passages of Hebrews, especially Hebrews 6:1–6, have long puzzled interpreters and unsettled readers. Is it a threat to assurance? A theological anomaly? In this episode, Dr. Marcus Mininger, Professor of New Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, joins us to explore the redemptive-historical framework behind one of the New Testament’s most debated passages. Drawing on the insights from his new book, Impossible to Be Restored?: Temptation and Warning in the Epistle of Hebrews (B&H Academic), Dr. Mininger explains how the warning in Hebrews 6 fits not only within the argument of Hebrews but also within the broader flow of covenantal history.

We discuss what the original audience was tempted to do, why returning to the old covenant to be right with God is impossible, and how this passage should shape pastoral ministry today. Along the way, Dr. Mininger helps listeners see how the “impossibility” language of Hebrews 6 is not a spiritual dead-end but a serious exhortation rooted in the once-for-all nature of Christ’s redemptive work.

If you’ve ever struggled with how to understand or teach Hebrews 6, this conversation offers clarity, theological depth, and pastoral wisdom.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:22 Impossible to Be Restored?
00:06:52 What Drew Dr. Mininger to this Subject
00:11:49 Starting in a New Field
00:17:28 Placing These Difficult Passages in Context
00:23:54 The Nature of the Temptation of the Original Audience
00:56:06 Relating the Warning Passages to the Application of Redemption
01:05:06 The Pastoral Application of These Passages
01:13:13 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Marcus Mininger

Full-Time: Work and the Meaning of Life

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

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

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Bahnsen, Mark Van Drunen

Vos Group #100 — The Two-Sided Conception of the Kingdom

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this milestone 100th installment of Vos Group, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton turn to page 381 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to explore the “two-sided conception of the kingdom.” Together they unpack Vos’s insights into the already/not yet dynamic of the kingdom of God—its present spiritual reality and its future consummate glory.

Along the way, they engage with historical-critical objections, consider the role of John the Baptist, reflect on the meaning of Jesus’ parables, and highlight the religious nature of the kingdom as forgiveness, communion with God, and eternal life in Christ. This discussion not only brings clarity to Vos’s redemptive-historical vision but also deepens our understanding of Christ’s reign now and in the age to come.

As the Vos Group nears completion of Biblical Theology, Camden and Lane also share exciting news about what’s next: a new series through Vos’s The Teaching of Jesus Concerning the Kingdom of God and the Church.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
10:26 The Two-Sided Conception of the Kingdom
26:43 The Kingdom of God within You
31:18 The Arrival of the Present Kingdom
37:44 The Parables of the Kingdom
47:37 The Gradual Progression of the Kingdom
54:47 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Christ in All of Scripture — Previewing the 2025 Theology Conference

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy engage in a lively and theologically rich conversation. Fresh from attending Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary’s summer seminar with David Hall and Carl Trueman, Camden shares highlights from the event before turning to the main topic: a preview of the 2025 Reformed Forum Theology Conference.

This year’s theme—The Things Concerning Himself: Christ in All the Scriptures—will explore how the entire Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, reveals Christ as the sum and substance of God’s covenantal plan. Camden and Jim walk through each of the planned addresses, reflecting on why Christ is not an “added-on” figure to the Old Testament, but its very heart from the beginning. Along the way, they share personal ministry stories, insights on biblical theology, and a taste of the fellowship that makes these gatherings so special.

Join us September 27, 2025 at Lakeland Church in Gurnee, Illinois, for an edifying day of teaching, conversation, and fellowship. Come early for the Friday night pre-conference at Primo’s Italian Steakhouse. Registration is now open, with early-bird rates through September 1, 2025. Learn more and reserve your spot at reformedforum.org/conference.

Whether you are a pastor, student, or serious layperson, this conference will help you see more clearly how all of Scripture points to Christ—and how that transforms our understanding, devotion, and service to him.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:45 Basic Info on RF25
00:11:07 Greenville Summer Seminar
00:23:54 The Seed of Abraham
00:38:44 The Lamb of God
00:53:10 More Discussion of the Conference
00:56:21 Scholars Fellowship
01:03:44 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Van Til and the Problem of Evil

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we are joined by Rev. Dr. William D. Dennison, pastor of Emmanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Kent, Washington, to reflect on Cornelius Van Til’s student paper “Evil and Theodicy” and the enduring challenges of explaining evil in a world governed by a sovereign, good God. Dennison has edited The Problem of Evil, a new volume that includes an edition of this paper and a helpful introductory essay that brings Van Til’s paper in dialogue with contemporary thinkers.

Dr. Dennison offers a deeply personal and theological meditation on Van Til’s conviction that God himself is the only sufficient theodicy. We explore how the mystery of evil cannot be unraveled by philosophical speculation or evidentialist reasoning, but only understood through the revelation of the triune God in Scripture. The conversation moves from Van Til’s early insights as a seminary student to the contemporary relevance of his critique of autonomy, his rejection of theistic rationalism, and his insistence on beginning all thinking with the self-attesting Christ of Scripture.

Along the way, Dr. Dennison shares biographical reflections on Van Til, his own pedagogical experiences in teaching apologetics, and the pastoral importance of grounding theological inquiry in the redemptive narrative of Scripture rather than speculative philosophy. This episode is a must for those who desire to think confessionally and presuppositionally about one of the most difficult questions in theology.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

[0:00:07] Introduction
[0:05:04] Background to the Project
[0:16:55] The Historical and Biographical Context of Van Til’s Student Paper
[0:22:55] Van Til’s Main Point
[0:28:21] God Is His Own Defense
[0:35:26] Van Til and Plantinga’s Free Will Defense
[0:41:59] The Fourfold Estate of Man
[0:54:42] Van Til’s Critique of Kant
[0:58:40] Treating Theodicy as a Fundamentally Religious Matter
[1:08:45] Conclusion

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

Biblical Meditation: God’s Battle Plan for the Mind

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Saxton

Faith in Exile (Psalm 119)

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Camden Bucey welcomes Dr. David VanDrunen to discuss his new book, Faith in Exile: Psalm 119 and the Christian Life (Christian Focus). VanDrunen shares the backstory behind this unique project—his first published collection of sermons—and reflects on how Psalm 119, the Bible’s longest chapter, unfolds a deep theology of suffering, obedience, and the pilgrim experience.

Drawing from the structure and literary artistry of the Psalm, VanDrunen explores its unifying themes and situates it within the broader redemptive narrative. He highlights how the psalmist’s experience of exile and longing resonates with believers today who sojourn in a world that is not their home. The conversation weaves together biblical theology, practical piety, and reflections on theological pedagogy—particularly the enduring influence of Dr. Robert Strimple.

This episode offers rich insight into the Christian life shaped by the Word of God amid affliction, anticipation, and hope.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Mid-America Reformed Seminary CME Conference
01:41 Introduction
02:50 Westminster Seminary California Update
06:40 Remembering Dr. Robert Strimple
15:39 The Story Behind the Book
24:30 The Literary Features of Psalm 119
29:16 The Historical Context of the Psalm
36:24 The Theme of Obedience
57:05 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, David VanDrunen

One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Guy Waters is the Professor of New Testament at the Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi and a teaching elder in the Mississippi presbytery of the Presbyterian Church in America. Today, he joins us to speak about his book, One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church (Lexham Academic), in which he sets out a full-scale Reformed doctrine of the church. The title echoes the four classical “marks” confessed in the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed. This study is an extended exploration of how Scripture, read through a Reformed lens, fills out each of those creedal descriptors and binds them together into a single, coherent doctrine of the church.

Dr. Waters organizes the book in three movements:

Biblical Revelation (Part I). Seven chapters trace “the people of God” from creation and Eden through Abraham, Moses, the prophets, Christ and the apostles, showing that God has always had one covenant people that reaches its eschatological maturity in the new-covenant church.
Doctrinal Construction (Part II). Waters treats the classic loci of ecclesiology: the church’s four attributes (one, holy, catholic, apostolic); its marks (pure preaching, right sacraments, biblical discipline); its government (Christ the king, officers and courts); its worship (word, sacraments, prayer, Lord’s Day); its life (gifts and discipline); and its mission (“gathering and perfecting the saints” until Christ returns) .
Truth for Life and Mission (Part III). A final chapter applies the doctrine to church-state relations, defending a robust spirituality of the church and principled religious liberty.

The conclusion distills the argument into seven theses that function as a theological checksum. Throughout, Waters interlaces biblical exegesis, historical theology and confessional sources (especially the Westminster Standards). The result is both an academic survey and a pastoral manifesto aimed at equipping the church for faithful witness today.

The conversation explores the essential identity and mission of the church, the continuity between the Old and New Testaments, and what is distinctly new through Christ’s redemptive work. Waters outlines the seven theses of his book, offering clarity on ecclesiology for today’s church, particularly in light of confusion over polity, worship, and the church’s relation to the state.

This episode is an invitation to recover a robust, Reformed understanding of the church’s nature and calling, rooted in Scripture and developed in the tradition of historic confessions.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Mid-America Reformed Seminary CME Conference
01:30 Introduction
03:20 The Story Behind the Book
06:54 The Emphasis of this Book
10:43 The Need for Ecclesiology Today
15:33 The Seven Theses of the Book
18:54 The Continuity of God’s People in the Old and New Testaments
22:02 What Is New in the NT through Christ
28:02 The Mission of the Church
33:56 The Relation of Scripture to Polity
38:00 Worship
43:32 Ministering in Word and Deed
47:28 The Church and the State
52:26 The Spirituality of the Church
56:27 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Guy Prentiss Waters

Vos Group #99 — Millennial Views and Modern Theories of the Kingdom

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this installment of the Vos Group, Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton turn to pages 378–381 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, focusing on Jesus’ teaching and the eschatology of the kingdom. They explore the vital biblical distinction between the “already” and “not yet” aspects of the kingdom of God, examining how this two-age structure stands in contrast to various eschatological systems, including premillennialism, postmillennialism, and what Vos labels “ultra-eschatology.”

Tipton and Bucey analyze Vos’s critique of these systems, highlighting the theological implications of denying either the inaugurated or consummated dimensions of the kingdom. They also discuss the resurrection, the second coming of Christ, and the theological coherence of amillennialism within the Reformed tradition. In the course of the discussion, they reflect on the life and teaching of Dr. Robert B. Strimple, affirming his Christ-centered theological pedagogy and lasting influence.

Listeners will find this episode a robust and thought-provoking engagement with biblical theology, eschatology, and Reformed orthodoxy.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

[00:00] Mid-America Reformed Seminary Center for Missions and Evangelism Conference
[01:30] Introduction
[02:45] Remembering Dr. Robert Strimple
[09:03] The Two-Stage Kingdom
[20:32] Albert Schweitzer and Ultra-Eschatology
[25:30] Postmillennialism and Gradualism
[33:42] Measuring the Kingdom’s Advance
[38:58] Vos on Premillennialism
[48:32] Premillennialism and the Westminster Standards
[58:45] Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Van Til Group #16 — A Response to Keith Mathison, Part 2

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey is joined once again by Lane Tipton and Carlton Wynne for a substantive follow-up to their earlier discussion of Keith Mathison’s Toward a Reformed Apologetic: A Critique of the Thought of Cornelius Van Til. In the months since their first review, Dr. Mathison published a blog response, prompting deeper analysis and clarification.

Together, Drs. Bucey, Tipton and Wynne explore key critiques Mathison levels against Van Til, especially the claims of epistemological idealism and the so-called “omniscience requirement” for true knowledge. The panel addresses these concerns with thoughtful care, highlighting Van Til’s emphasis on covenantal epistemology, the distinction between psychological and ethical knowledge, and the non-neutrality of unbelieving thought.

The episode also tackles Mathison’s treatment of common grace and the antithesis—core concepts in Van Til’s apologetic system. Does Van Til teach that unbelievers attain true knowledge by way of common grace? What is the actual function of common grace in a fallen world? And how does Van Til preserve the absolute ethical antithesis between belief and unbelief without denying shared external reality or meaningful engagement?

This is a clarifying and edifying conversation for anyone interested in Reformed theology, presuppositional apologetics, or the legacy of Cornelius Van Til.

Mentioned Resources

Keith Mathison, Toward a Reformed Apologetics
Cornelius Van Til, The Defense of the Faith
Cornelius Van Til, Common Grace and the Gospel
Follow-up blog post by Dr. Mathison

Topics Covered

Epistemological holism and the “omniscience thesis”
Idealist influence and Van Til’s use of borrowed terminology
The meaning of “true knowledge” in covenantal context
The image of God, suppression of truth, and natural revelation
Common grace and its relationship to knowledge and antithesis
The continuing relevance of Van Til’s apologetic method

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction
02:56 – Upcoming General Assembly
03:45 – Overview of Keith Mathison’s Book and Blog Response
05:06 – Main Concerns: Common Grace, Antithesis, and Epistemology
07:12 – Van Til’s Doctrine of Knowledge and Ethical Implications
09:13 – Response to Mathison’s Critique and Blog Post
12:34 – The ‘Omniscience Thesis’ in Dr. Mathison’s Reading
17:18 – Clarifying True Knowledge in Van Til’s View
23:04 – Idealism, Epistemological Holism, and Formal Influence
28:36 – Borrowed Capital vs. Replanting from Idealism
33:13 – Ethical Antithesis and Knowledge Suppression
42:12 – Common Grace: Misunderstanding and Clarification
47:13 – Van Til’s View: Knowledge Precedes Common Grace
54:11 – True Knowledge and the Ethical Rebellion of Man
59:28 – Common Grace and Inconsistent Suppression
66:10 – Antithesis in Every Sphere of Life
69:55 – Common Grace Doesn’t Suspend Total Depravity
71:48 – Looking Ahead to Reconstructed Theistic Proofs

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

The Lord Bless You and Keep You: Exploring the Heart of Numbers

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode we welcome Dr. Michael Morales—professor of biblical studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary—for a conversation exploring the profound theological vision of the book of Numbers. Drawing from his newly released two-volume commentary in the Apollos Old Testament Commentary series, Dr. Morales unveils Numbers as more than ancient census lists and wilderness wanderings. Instead, it emerges as a richly textured narrative of covenant community, leadership, and the Lord’s presence among his people.

Listeners will discover how the structure of Israel’s camp reflects Edenic hope and eschatological promise, how Numbers addresses the roles of prophet, priest, and king, and why the priestly blessing and Balaam’s oracles form theological bookends to this journey toward the Promised Land. Dr. Morales also shares personal reflections from his ten-year labor on the commentary, emphasizing the pastoral power and redemptive-historical depth of this often-overlooked book.

Whether you’re a pastor, seminary student, or serious Bible reader, this conversation will reinvigorate your love for the Pentateuch and deepen your grasp of how all Scripture points us to Christ.

Resources Mentioned

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

01:10 Introduction
03:22 Update About Current Projects
05:55 The Experience of Working on This Project for 10 Years
12:39 The Camp Metaphor
19:02 God Dwelling in the Midst of His People
23:53 Grumbling and Rebellion
28:47 The Orientation of God’s People
34:40 The New Generation
43:19 The Close of the Book
45:12 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Michael Morales

The Nicene Creed and the Nature of Christian Unity

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Leonardo De Chirico and Mark Gilbert join the program to discuss the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed as it marks its 1700th anniversary. Drawing from their recent edited volume, The Nicene Creed: The Nature of Christian Unity and the Meaning of Gospel Words (Matthias Media), the guests explore how shared creedal language can mask deep theological differences, particularly between evangelical and Roman Catholic traditions.

Leonardo De Chirico is a pastor of a Reformed evangelical church in Rome, a scholar of Roman Catholic theology, and a leader in the Reformanda Initiative, which seeks to equip evangelical engagement with Roman Catholicism. Mark Gilbert serves as a chaplain in Sydney, Australia, and leads the ministry Certainty for Eternity, which focuses on evangelism among those from Roman Catholic backgrounds. Both men bring rich theological and pastoral insight to bear on the question of unity in Christ.

The conversation traces the origins of the creed, its Trinitarian framework, and the implications of confessing shared historical truths while diverging in doctrinal substance—especially concerning Christology, the church, and salvation. Leonardo and Mark also share personal insights from their ministries engaging Roman Catholics, underscoring the need for unity rooted in biblical truth rather than institutional alignment or superficial consensus.

This episode invites thoughtful reflection on what true Christian unity looks like in light of Scripture, and how the creeds function as faithful, yet insufficient, summaries apart from a Reformed understanding of the gospel.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

01:11 Introduction
04:03 Background to the Book
11:27 Can We Have Meaningful Unity with Roman Catholics?
17:31 Unity in Truth
25:32 The Trinitarian Theology of the Creed
29:31 The Christology of the Creed
38:16 The Scope and Usefulness of the Nicene Creed
44:31 The Work of Christ
51:50 Pursuing Christian Unity
57:55 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Leonardo De Chirico, Mark Gilbert

Samuel Miller’s Thoughts on Public Prayer

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 12:57:47 -0400

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

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master

Vos Group #98 — The Kingdom in the Gospels

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0400

What did Jesus mean when he spoke of “the kingdom of God” or “the kingdom of heaven?” In this episode, we turn to Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology, pages 375–378, where he unpacks the theological and biblical contours of the kingdom in the Gospels. Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey explore the critical distinction Vos draws between the abstract and concrete senses of the kingdom, the Old Testament background, and how the kingdom becomes incarnate in the person and work of Christ.

Together, we discuss

the kingdom as God’s sovereign reign vs. a redemptive realm,
how the Reformed categories regnum essentiale, regnum personale, and regnum spirituale frame our understanding,
the significance of Matthew’s phrase “kingdom of heaven,”
the kingdom’s embodiment in the incarnate Christ and its expression in the church,
the dangers of under- or over-realized eschatologies.

This episode offers rich theological insight and practical clarity for pastors, students, and anyone seeking to understand the kingdom according to Scripture and sound Reformed theology.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

01:11 Introduction
01:44 Theological Topics in Romans
06:03 The Kingdom of God in the Gospels
12:59 Important Distinctions
24:58 Jesus’ Sense of the Kingdom in the Gospels
31:51 The Kingdom and the Church
36:25 Avoiding Under- and Over-Realized Eschatologies
40:34 Matthew and the Kingdom of Heaven
53:10 The Kingdom and Worship on the Lord’s Day
58:25 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Loving the Law

Fri, 30 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Stephen Spinnenweber

Righteous by Design and Created for Communion

Fri, 23 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this rich theological conversation, Camden Bucey welcomes Dr. Harrison Perkins—pastor, scholar, and author—to discuss his two latest books: Righteous by Design: Covenantal Merit and Adam’s Original Integrity (Christian Focus) and Created for Communion with God: The Promise of Genesis 1–2 (Lexham Press). Together, they explore foundational Reformed doctrines related to covenant theology, the image of God, and the eschatological purpose embedded in creation itself.

Dr. Perkins offers historical and systematic clarity on the oft-debated notion of merit in the covenant of works, contrasting Reformed and Roman Catholic anthropologies. He also unpacks the pastoral dimensions of humanity’s creation for communion with God, showing how Genesis 1–2 serves not merely as a record of origins, but as a divine love letter calling God’s people into eternal fellowship.

Whether you’re a pastor, scholar, or thoughtful layperson, this episode provides deep insight into how theology—rooted in Scripture and the Reformed tradition—shapes our understanding of God, humanity, and the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:09:06 The Origin of Each Book
00:18:03 Genesis 1–2 Draws Us into Communion with God
00:20:58 The Theme of Beauty
00:24:39 Original Righteousness
00:32:34 Natural Man’s Ability
00:47:00 Concupiscence
00:56:01 Concepts of Merit
01:07:18 Communion with Other Image Bearers
01:15:22 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Harrison Perkins

The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials

Fri, 16 May 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

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

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, J. Brandon Burks

The Swiss Reformation: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

Fri, 09 May 2025 05:00:25 -0400

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

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

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

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

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Florian Weicken, Kurt Vetterli

Vos Group #97 — The Kingdom of God in the Old Testament

Fri, 02 May 2025 05:00:23 -0400

In this installment of our Vos Group series, Camden Bucey welcomes Lane Tipton back to the studio for an in-depth discussion on Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology (pp. 372–374), focusing on the Kingdom of God. Together, they explore how the concept of the kingdom is foundational to Jesus’ public ministry and central to redemptive history.

Drawing from Vos’s text and the broader Reformed tradition, Lane and Camden unpack the eschatological character of the kingdom, its redemptive nature, and its Old Testament foundations. They trace how this theme unfolds from the prophets to the teachings of Christ, addressing modern misconceptions—ranging from liberal moralism to dispensational literalism—and emphasizing the kingdom’s spiritual and heavenly dimensions.

Listeners will gain fresh insight into key theological categories such as inaugurated eschatology, the continuity of redemptive history, and the contrast between earthly and heavenly expectations of the Messiah. Whether you’re new to Vos or a long-time student of Reformed theology, this episode offers deep encouragement and clarity on a subject that lies at the very heart of Scripture.

Watch on YouTube

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
04:35 The Kingdom of God in the Ministry of Jesus
07:12 The Eschatological and Redemptive Nature of the Kingdom
19:08 Kingdom Language in John vs. Synoptics
28:01 Salvation, Discipleship, and the Call to Radical Obedience
34:19 Kingdom in the Old Testament: Present and Future Dimensions
40:59 Future Kingdom in the OT: Abstract, Historical, Messianic
45:57 Jewish Expectations vs. Jesus’ Teaching on the Kingdom
52:13 Christ’s Kingdom: Heavenly, Spiritual, and Redemptive
57:08 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Special Commission of 1925

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 05:00:52 -0400

In this episode, Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey explore a pivotal moment in the history of American Presbyterianism: the Special Commission of 1925 and its investigation into the doctrinal unrest within the Presbyterian Church (USA). Appointed to address the growing tension between modernists and conservatives, the Commission aimed to preserve the church’s “purity, peace, unity, and progress.” However, for J. Gresham Machen, the Commission’s recommendations represented a profound failure to uphold biblical orthodoxy.

We explore how the Special Commission, composed of fifteen prominent ministers and ruling elders with deep ties to denominational institutions, prioritized unity over doctrinal clarity. Its influential members—such as Robert Speer, Mark Matthews, and Stated Clerk Lewis Mudge—were largely institutional loyalists who sought to preserve the church’s structural integrity and foster reconciliation rather than enforcing confessional standards. Despite Machen’s compelling plea for doctrinal faithfulness, the Commission framed the controversy as a misunderstanding of tolerance and authority rather than a fundamental theological crisis.

We’ll examine how Machen’s uncompromising opposition to modernism ultimately led to his suspension from the PCUSA and the formation of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in 1936. Along the way, we’ll discuss the broader implications of this controversy for American Presbyterianism, and how the decisions made during this period continue to influence Reformed denominations today.

Join us as we unpack the significance of the Special Commission of 1925 and consider what lessons it holds for maintaining orthodoxy in the midst of institutional pressure and theological compromise.

Links

Watch on YouTube.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:06:36 Setting the Stage: Presbyterian History and Tensions
00:16:32 The Five Fundamentals and the Auburn Affirmation
00:35:40 Erdman’s Motion at the 1925 General Assembly
00:40:02 The Makeup of the Commission of 1925
00:51:49 The Work of the Commission
01:00:58 The Sine Qua Non of Presbyterianism
01:07:38 The Aftermath
01:20:52 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

Engaging with Thomas Aquinas

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 05:00:22 -0400

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

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

The Biblical Theme of Exile and Return

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 05:00:18 -0400

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

Vos Group #96 — The Divine Majesty, Greatness, and Righteousness

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

300 Years of the Reformed Church in the United States

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 05:00:30 -0400

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

The Three-Office View

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 05:00:35 -0400

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:

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

The Genevan Réveil

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

Vos Group #95 — Jesus's Teaching on Divine Fatherhood

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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

This is Christ the Center episode 897 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc897)

Marcus Mininger | Redemptive-Historical Interpretation

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Brian DeVries | You Will Be My Witnesses

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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 complexities of 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.

Vos Group #94 — Jesus's View of the Old Testament and Doctrine of God

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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?

Join us as we discuss:

Jesus's unwavering affirmation of the Old Testament's authority
His unique role in fulfilling and interpreting the law
The significance of his divine self-awareness in shaping redemptive history
How Vos defends the integrity of biblical revelation against modern critiques
The depth of Jesus's teaching on the Fatherhood of God

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.

Van Til Group #15 — A Critique of Keith Mathison's Toward a Reformed Apologetics

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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.

Michael Seufert and Dan Svendsen | Ancient Near Eastern Hero Culture

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

Join us for a fascinating conversation on biblical imagery. Dr. Michael Seufert, pastor at 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.

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

Robert Letham | The Holy Spirit

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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 member 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 its 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.

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

Greg Beale | The Use of the Old Testament in Colossians

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Vos Group #93 — Truth in the Fourth Gospel and Jesus' View of the Bible

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Highlights from 2024

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 01:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we look back upon the year and highlight clips from our ten most watched videos.

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

The 2024 Christmas Extravaganza

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Dan Ragusa | Biblical-Theological Aspects of the Nativity

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

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 nativity, 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.

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

Chad Vegas | Engaging Missions Through the Life of John G. Paton

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

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.

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

This is Christ the Center episode 885 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc885)

Ben Gladd | The Carson Center and the Future of Biblical-Theological Studies

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 01:00:00 -0400

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 a wealth of insight and encouragement.

Links

Learn more about the Carson Center: The Carson Center
Explore Reformed Forum's new publications: Order in the Offices, 2nd Edition and Fullness of Joy by Dan Ragusa

Chapters

00:00 Sponsor: Five More Talents
01:35 Introduction
05:20 Woodworking Talk
12:04 New Books from Reformed Forum
15:16 Reformed Forum Christmas Extravaganza
17:31 Introducing the Carson Center
26:15 Key Programs
33:59 Theological Journals
43:34 The Current State of Biblical-Theological Studies
56:59 How to Follow Up
59:12 Conclusion

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey | Listener Questions

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0400

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 the many ways Reformed Forum is connecting with its 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.

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

Hart, Muether, and Olinger | The Early Machen

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 01:00:00 -0400

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 use of terms like "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 like 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

Chapters

Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

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

Vos Group #92 — Parables and Allegories

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Missions, Culture, and Online Education

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Van Til Group #14 — Ethics and the Christian Philosophy of Reality

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

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

Christian Education and the US Supreme Court

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 05:00:29 -0400

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

Vos Group #91 — The Development and Method of Jesus’s Teaching

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we open Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments (pp. 348–352), exploring insights on the development and method of Jesus’s teaching. We examine Vos’s distinction between subjective and objective development, discussing why Vos rejects the idea that Jesus’s understanding evolved over time. Instead, we explore the progression of Jesus’s teachings as a deeper unfolding of divine truth, perfectly aligned with his dual nature as both fully divine and fully human.

We also explore the unique teaching methods Jesus employed during his ministry, focusing on his use of parables and concrete imagery to communicate the mysteries of the kingdom of God. From the simple similitudes comparing natural processes to spiritual realities, to the complex parables proper, Vos illustrates how Jesus’s teachings were both profound and adaptable, responding to the readiness of his disciples and the opposition of his critics.

Join us as we unpack these key theological themes and discuss the implications of Vos’s analysis for understanding the unchanging yet progressively revealing nature of Christ’s teaching ministry. Learn how the divine and human natures of Christ shape his perfect teaching and how Vos’s theological insights continue to challenge modern interpretations of Jesus’s life and ministry.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

[00:07] Introduction
[01:48] Development in Jesus’s Teaching
[04:53] Subjective Development of Jesus’s Teaching
[17:38] Objective Development of Jesus’s Teaching
[34:03] The Method of Jesus’s Teaching
[38:46] Teaching through Parables
[50:13] Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Roots, Legacy, and Influence of the Reformed Church in the United States

Fri, 04 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Rev. Hank Bowen, pastor of First Reformed Church in Aberdeen, South Dakota, for an insightful conversation on the Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS). Together with Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha, Rev. Bowen traces the rich historical roots of the RCUS, from its German Palatinate origins through its development in America. The discussion covers the denomination’s key theological influences, particularly its connections with the Heidelberg Catechism, and its intersections with other Reformed traditions such as the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC).

As they reflect on the challenges and blessings the RCUS has faced over the centuries, including its role in resisting liberalism and promoting confessional orthodoxy, the conversation highlights the enduring legacy and ongoing influence of the RCUS in Reformed theology today. Whether you are a familiar with the RCUS or new to its history, this episode offers valuable reflections on the faithfulness of God through the generations.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

[00:00:07] Introduction
[00:01:26] Overview of the Reformed Church in the U.S. (RCUS)
[00:02:53] Updates from Reformed Forum
[00:05:40] The History and Formation of the RCUS
[00:08:14] Celebrating the 300th Synod of the RCUS
[00:11:32] Rev. Bowen’s Personal Testimony
[00:13:25] The RCUS and Theological Challenges
[00:20:15] The Influence of Westminster Seminary on the RCUS
[00:24:02] The Importance of Catechesis and the Heidelberg Catechism
[00:33:33] Church Planting and Home Missions in the RCUS
[00:37:55] Ecumenical Relations with the OPC and the URCNA
[00:46:45] RCUS Foreign Missions Strategy
[00:57:08] Rev. Bowen’s Doctoral Research and Pastoral Burnout
[01:00:14] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Participants: Camden Bucey, Hank Bowen, Ryan Noha

The Church’s Mission in Global Perspective

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In preparation of our upcoming annual theology conference, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy reflect on the global mission of the church through the lens of the Great Commission (Matt. 28:18-20). They discuss how Reformed Forum supports the church’s work of making disciples by providing theological resources and education, focusing on the key elements of going, baptizing, and teaching.

Jim shares his experiences teaching in the Philippines and the surprising impact of Reformed Academy on the global Reformed community. The conversation explores the OPC’s approach to foreign and home missions, as well as Christian education, highlighting the importance of building self-sustaining and theologically mature churches around the world. The episode also touches on the need for contextualized, long-term confessional education and how technology is enabling the spread of Reformed theology in various cultural contexts.

Listeners will gain insight into how Reformed Forum serves as a resource for pastors and churches worldwide, including the challenges of foreign missions and the unique role of theological education in shaping the future of the global church.

Join us for this thoughtful discussion on missions, discipleship, and the Great Commission’s enduring relevance.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
11:38 Jim’s Trip to the Philippines
15:02 The Great Commission: Making Disciples
27:34 The Role of Theological Education in Missions
35:26 The End of Missions
39:43 Addressing Concerns of Colonialism in Missions
50:32 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Embracing the Imprecatory Psalms

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we sit down with Rev. Ryan Swale, pastor of Immanuel URC in Jordan, Ontario, to discuss his dissertation, The Imprecatory Pastor: A Practical Theology of the Imprecatory Psalms. Swale challenges the church today to reconsider the often-overlooked imprecatory psalms, which call for divine justice upon enemies. He argues that these psalms are not only permissible for Christians to use but are essential for pastoral ministry. Grounded in the character of God and rooted in biblical promises, Swale shows how these prayers for justice play a vital role in counseling, preaching, prayer, and worship.

Swale explains the theological foundations of imprecatory psalms, demonstrating how both the Old and New Testaments affirm their use. He also explores practical applications for pastors, including how imprecatory psalms can be employed in “liturgical warfare,” apologetics, and pastoral counseling. Swale urges pastors to embrace these psalms as a powerful means of confronting evil and injustice, ultimately leading the church in glorifying God’s justice.

Join us as we explore the biblical and pastoral importance of imprecatory psalms and their role in faithfully navigating a fallen world. Learn more about the powerful place of imprecatory psalms in Christian life and ministry.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
05:13 Choosing the Imprecatory Psalms as a DMin Dissertation Topic
11:25 What Is an Imprecatory Psalm?
14:17 Imprecations in Light of Genesis 3:15
23:03 Imprecatory Psalms and the New Testament
38:27 Imprecatory Psalms in Corporate Worship
45:30 The Judgment of God upon Christ for His People
48:21 Psalms for the Age of Rage
53:44 Suggestions for Beginning to Use the Imprecatory Psalms
57:43 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Ryan Swale

Vos Group — The Christian’s Hope (1 Pet. 1:3–5)

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 15:13:35 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey leads a discussion with Lane Tipton and Danny Olinger on Geerhardus Vos’s sermon, “The Christian’s Hope,” from his book Grace and Glory. The group explores the profound eschatological themes of 1 Peter 1:3-5, examining the nature of Christian hope as rooted in the resurrection of Christ and the believer’s heavenly inheritance. They unpack how this hope should shape the Christian life, influencing how we view suffering, earthly success, and our ultimate calling. The conversation highlights how Vos’s insights are still relevant for modern Reformed believers, particularly in a world distracted by temporal concerns. Tune in for a rich discussion on how our eschatological hope fuels a life of faithful pilgrimage toward the new heavens and new earth.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
05:01 The Pilgrim Life and 1 Peter 1:3–5
07:49 The Historical Context of 1904
10:42 The Nature of Hope
21:15 The Christian Perspective on American and European Culture
27:02 Postmillennialism and Amillennialism
35:14 The Characteristics of the Heavenly Inheritance
40:48 The Powerful Witness of Christian Hope
48:17 Christ’s Blessing upon the Church
53:42 The Christian Purpose
57:42 Conclusion

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

Reclaiming the “Dark Ages”

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In Reclaiming the ‘Dark Ages’: How the Gospel Light Shone from 500–1500 (Christian Focus), authors Iain Wright and Yannick Imbert challenge the popular Protestant perception of the Middle Ages as a period of spiritual darkness and theological decay. They argue that this millennium was not devoid of Christian influence and that it produced many significant and influential Christian thinkers.

Wright and Imbert join us to present a more nuanced view of the medieval period, highlighting the spiritual and theological contributions of figures such as Bernard of Clairvaux, Anselm of Canterbury, and John Wycliffe, among others. They emphasize the continuity of orthodox Christian theology and the guiding hand of providence throughout this era, urging modern Christians to appreciate the historical richness and spiritual insights of the Middle Ages.

Iain Wright is pastor of Covenant OPC, Orland Park, Illinois. Yannick Imbert holds the William Edgar Chair of Apologetics at Faculté Jean Calvin, Aix–en–Provence, southern France. He also serves on the theological committee of the National Council of French Evangelicals.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
06:01 Thinking about the Middle Ages
15:24 Reconsidering the Middle Ages
21:57 Selecting the Theologians to Include in the Book
27:24 Anselm of Canterbury
36:19 Peter Waldo, John Wycliffe, and Jan Hus
42:10 Lessons for the Church Today
46:42 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Iain Wright, Yannick Imbert

Church Planting and the Ordinary Means of Grace

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey is joined by a panel of experienced pastors and church planters to discuss the vital role of the ordinary means of grace in church planting. The conversation explores how God’s Word, sacraments, and prayer serve as the primary instruments for planting and growing churches, contrasting these biblical methods with modern consumer-driven and franchise models. Together, they share their personal experiences, challenges, and insights on how a faithful adherence to Reformed theology and practices impacts church planting efforts.

Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the importance of maintaining theological integrity while engaging in evangelism and community outreach. Whether you’re involved in church planting or simply interested in how the ordinary means of grace shape the life and mission of the church, this episode offers rich theological reflection and practical wisdom.

Joe Cristman is Pastor/Church Planter of Redeemer Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Lombard, IL.
Neil Quinn is Senior Pastor of Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church (PCA), in Kalamazoo, MI (a plant of University Reformed Church).
Chris Hartshorn is Regional Home Missionary for the OPC Presbytery of Southern California.
Eric Watkins is Director of the Center for Missions and Evangelism at Mid-America Reformed Seminary.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

[00:00:07] Introduction and Welcome
[00:01:18] Panelist Introductions
[00:03:33] Reformed Forum Conference Announcement
[00:05:15] Center for Missions and Evangelism Conference
[00:07:26] The Shift in Church Planting Models
[00:09:10] Eric Watkins on Postmodern Consumerism in Church Planting
[00:12:33] Joe Cristman’s Experience in Lombard
[00:15:17] Chris Hartshorn’s Journey to Church Planting
[00:19:22] Neil Quinn on Church Planting in Kalamazoo
[00:26:39] Generational and Consumer-Driven Church Planting Models
[00:28:13] Challenges of Church Planting Using Ordinary Means
[00:29:30] The Power of God’s Word in Church Planting
[00:34:22] Different Church Planting Models: Mother-Daughter, Parachute, and Core Group
[00:40:19] Importance of a Local Church Presence
[00:46:11] The Role of Bible Study in Church Planting
[00:54:23] Evangelism and Outreach in Church Planting
[01:05:11] Developing a Culture of Evangelism in the Church
[01:10:00] Overcoming Challenges in Church Outreach

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Hartshorn, Eric Watkins, Joe Cristman, Neil Quinn

The Reformed Dutch Influence upon American Presbyterianism

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. Daniel Ragusa, pastor of Messiah’s Reformed Fellowship in New York City joins Camden Bucey for this thoughtful episode of Christ the Center. Together, they explore the profound impact of Dutch Reformed theology on American Presbyterianism, focusing on key historical moments and figures, including Cornelius Van Til and Gerhardus Vos. Ragusa shares insights from his recent work translating and editing Van Til’s “Dutch Letters” and discusses the lasting influence of Dutch Reformed thought on the formation of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC).

This conversation examines the connections between the nineteenth-century Dutch secession movements, particularly the Afscheiding of 1834, and their influence on the theological and ecclesiastical landscape in America. With a focus on confessional integrity and the challenges posed by modernity, Ragusa highlights the ongoing relevance of these historical developments for Reformed theology today.

Listeners will also hear about exciting new publications from Reformed Forum, including Ragusa’s forthcoming book, The Joyful Fellowship, which traces the theme of “God with us” throughout Scripture. This episode provides a rich, historical, and theological exploration of the Dutch Reformed legacy in American Presbyterianism.

Watch on YouTube or Vimeo.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:16 The Joyful Fellowship
00:13:08 Van Til’s Dutch Letters
00:21:43 First Impressions of the Letters
00:29:09 The Afscheiding of 1834
00:47:42 The Doleantie
00:50:10 Holland-Mania
00:54:51 Vos as a Connecting Figure
01:06:30 American Presbyterian Influence on the Dutch Reformed
01:11:57 A Struggle for Faithfulness to Confessional Identity
01:21:12 Teaching at MARS
01:23:24 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa

Expository Reflections on Mark

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Join us for an engaging episode of Christ the Center as we sit down with Douglas Sean O’Donnell, pastor, theologian, and author of Expository Reflections on the Gospels: Mark. In this episode, we delve into O’Donnell’s profound insights on the Gospel of Mark, exploring the unique theological and literary contours of this pivotal book of the New Testament.

O’Donnell shares the inspiration behind his work, the challenges he faced, and the discoveries he made while writing this book. We discuss key themes such as the identity and mission of Jesus, the importance of understanding His role as the Son of God, and how these insights can be practically applied in preaching and teaching.

Whether you are a pastor, theologian, or layperson, this conversation offers valuable perspectives that will deepen your understanding of the Gospel of Mark. Listen to hear how O’Donnell’s blend of scholarly precision and pastoral sensitivity provides a fresh, accessible approach to this gospel.

Douglas Sean O’Donnell is the senior vice president of Bible editorial at Crossway. With a PhD from the University of Aberdeen and extensive experience teaching and preaching, O’Donnell brings a unique blend of scholarly rigor and pastoral sensitivity to his work. He has pastored several churches, served as a professor, and authored or edited over twenty books, including commentaries, Bible studies, children’s books, and a children’s curriculum. His works include collaborations such as The Pastor’s Book with R. Kent Hughes and The Beauty and Power of Biblical Exposition with Leland Ryken.

Chapters

Participants: Camden Bucey, Douglas Sean O'Donnell

Arrowsmith’s Plans for Holy War

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we speak with Dr. David Noe, the translator, and Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn, the editor, behind the newly released English edition of John Arrowsmith’s remarkable work, Plans for Holy War: How the Spiritual Soldier Fights, Conquers, and Triumphs. Originally published in 1657 as Tactica Sacra, this treatise considers the intricacies of spiritual warfare, offering timeless insights and practical guidance for Christians engaged in the spiritual battle.

John Arrowsmith was a notable seventeenth-century theologian and member of the Westminster Assembly. Born in 1602 in Gateshead, Durham county, Arrowsmith was a dedicated scholar who served as a fellow at St. Catherine’s College and later as master of St. John’s College, Cambridge. His significant involvement in the Westminster Assembly and his writings have left a lasting impact on Reformed theology.

Join us as Drs. Noe and Van Dixhoorn share their journey in bringing this classic work to modern readers, revealing the challenges and triumphs they encountered along the way. With a deep appreciation for Arrowsmith’s theological and scholarly contributions, they offer listeners a unique perspective on why Plans for Holy War remains a vital resource today.

Dr. David Noe serves as Pastor of Reformation Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is a distinguished translator and scholar with a deep expertise in classical languages and Reformed theology. Dr. Noe is also the Latin editor for The Confessional Presbyterian Journal, and his online pedagogy for Latin, Greek, and Classics generally can be found at LatinPerDiem.com, MossMethod.com, and AdNavseam.com.

Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn (PhD, Cambridge) is Professor of Church History and Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC and an OPC minister. He is the author of Confessing the Faith and God’s Ambassadors:The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit, 1643–1652 and editor of The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly (1643–1652).

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
05:36 Biography of John Arrowsmith
11:02 Dr. Noe’s Introduction to Arrowsmith
14:47 Arrowsmith’s Health
17:41 Arrowsmith’s Latin
21:57 Arrowsmith’s Involvement at the Westminster Assembly
26:51 The Portions of This Volume
29:25 Speeches against Weigelianism
33:44 Arrowsmith’s Work on Spiritual Warfare
40:28 The Pastoral-Scholastic Style
44:03 The Present Value of Reading This Book
55:08 Future Projects
57:38 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn, David Noe

Union with the Resurrected Christ

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we are honored to welcome Dr. Greg K. Beale, a renowned biblical scholar and author, to discuss his latest book, Union with the Resurrected Christ (Baker Academic). Join us as Dr. Beale examines the profound theological concept of the believer’s union with the resurrected Christ, exploring its biblical foundations, theological implications, and practical applications.

Throughout our conversation, Dr. Beale shares insights from key biblical passages in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting how themes such as the new exodus in Isaiah and the teachings of Paul and Jesus form the basis of this transformative union. We also discuss the eschatological significance of this union and how it shapes our understanding of sanctification, Christian living, and our identity in Christ.

Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the unique contributions of Union with the Resurrected Christ to contemporary theological scholarship, as well as practical consideration for living out this union in their daily lives. Whether you are a scholar, pastor, or layperson, this episode offers valuable insights into the full scope of Christian salvation.

Dr. Gregory K. Beale is Professor of New Testament at RTS Dallas. With a distinguished academic career spanning decades, Dr. Beale has shaped minds at institutions such as Grove City College, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Wheaton Graduate School, and Westminster Theological Seminary. A former president of the Evangelical Theological Society, Dr. Beale brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our conversation on New Testament interpretation and biblical theology.

Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that underscores the richness of our union with the resurrected Christ and its vital importance for the Christian faith.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:06:00 How This New Book Relates to Dr. Beale’s Other Works
00:11:28 Union Not Only in the Death of Christ but with the Resurrected Christ
00:17:45 Christ Is the Substance of All Scripture
00:21:57 The New Exodus
00:39:36 Considering Romans 6:1–11
00:53:23 The Theme of Union with the Resurrected Christ outside the Pauline Epistles
01:00:19 Implications for the Christian Life
01:07:08 How We Read Our Old Testament
01:15:25 Other Projects
01:19:00 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Greg Beale, Lane G. Tipton

The Great Commission and God’s Unfolding Plan for the Nations

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy discuss the profound theme of the Great Commission and God’s overarching plan for the nations. This conversation serves as a follow-up to a pre-conference event held at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in March as well as a prelude to Reformed Forum’s upcoming annual theology conference, set for September 28, 2024, in Grayslake, Illinois.

Camden and Jim discuss the biblical foundations of the Great Commission, tracing its roots from the Old Testament through to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. They emphasize the continuity of God’s redemptive plan, highlighting key scriptural passages such as Matthew 28:18-20 and Isaiah 2:2-4, and unpack the theological significance of the inclusion of Gentiles as seen through the line of Japheth.

Listeners will gain insights into the unity of Scripture, the role of the ordinary means of grace, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to gather His people from every nation into His heavenly kingdom. This episode also provides practical encouragement for engaging in missions, both locally and globally, and underscores the importance of the Great Commission in the life of the church.

Join us for this enriching theological discussion that prepares the heart and mind for a deeper understanding of God’s unfolding plan for the nations.

Resources Mentioned:

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:06:41 Greenville Seminary Pre-Conference Event
00:23:46 Isaiah’s Vision and the End of Missions
00:28:15 The End of Nations
00:37:07 The Blessing of Japheth
00:47:21 The Work of the Church Today
00:53:43 Where to Focus Missions Efforts
01:01:58 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Reformation Studies, Latin, and the H. Henry Meeter Center

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Dr. David Noe, pastor of Reformation Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids and former faculty member at Calvin University. They discuss Dr. Noe’s work at the H. Henry Meeter Center for Calvin Studies, focusing on his recent workshop and the enduring significance of classical studies for understanding the Reformed theological tradition.

Join us as we discuss the importance of Latin scholarship, the influence of classical authors on Reformation thought, and the challenges and rewards of engaging with historical theological texts. This conversation highlights the value of communal learning and the timeless relevance of studying foundational Christian doctrines in their original languages.

Dr. Noe is also the Latin editor for the Confessional Presbyterian Journal, and his online pedagogy for Latin, Greek, and Classics generally can be found at LatinPerDiem.com, MossMethod.com, and AdNavseam.com.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:13 Working with Other Scholars
00:11:12 A Recent Latin Workshop at the Meeter Center
00:20:08 Seeing Scholarship in Process
00:24:09 Imitating the Education of the Reformers
00:34:33 Day 1: Cicero, Seneca, Lactantius
00:41:48 Day 2: Augustine, Bernard of Clairveaux, Thomas Aquinas
00:49:01 Day 3: Lorenzo Valla, Guillaume Bude, and Erasmus
00:54:31 Day 4: Calvin
00:56:53 Day 5: Vermigli
00:59:21 Daily Disciplines
01:07:01 Latin Per Diem
01:12:22 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Noe

Exploring the Doctrine of Inseparable Operations

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this engaging episode, we explore the intricate and profound world of Trinitarian theology with theologian Adonis Vidu. Join us as we explore the key themes and arguments from his latest book, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology (Eerdmans). Vidu passionately defends the doctrine of inseparable operations, which asserts that all actions of the Trinity are unified and indivisible. Through this doctrine, we gain a deeper understanding of the unity and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Throughout our conversation, Vidu traces the development, challenges, and implications of inseparable operations from biblical foundations and patristic contributions to contemporary theological debates. We address various objections, particularly concerning the incarnation and atonement, and demonstrate how this doctrine can coherently explain complex theological concepts while preserving the unity and distinction within the Trinity.

Adonis Vidu serves as Andrew Mutch Distinguished Professor of Theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where his research and teaching focus on the intersections of historical and contemporary theological thought. Vidu holds a Ph.D. in Theology and Religious Studies from King’s College London, and he has authored several influential works, including Atonement, Law, and Justice: The Cross in Historical and Cultural Contexts and the subject of this conversation, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology.

Watch or listen to gain invaluable insights from one of today’s leading theological minds as we explore the profound depths of Trinitarian theology and its relevance for contemporary Christian life and thought. Whether you’re a seasoned theologian or simply curious about the intricacies of faith, this episode promises to be both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:55 Introducing Inseparable Operations
00:08:40 Theological Grammar
00:14:10 Biblical Teaching on Inseparable Operations
00:18:41 The Patristic Tradition
00:22:19 The Rise and Decline of the Doctrine in History
00:32:49 Augustine and Aquinas
00:39:14 The Incarnation of the Son
00:43:14 The Person of the Son
00:50:46 The Atonement
00:56:41 The Holy Spirit
01:03:23 Our Experience of God in the Christian Life
01:12:23 Eastern Orthodoxy and Mysticism
01:18:00 Conclusion

Participants: Adonis Vidu, Camden Bucey

Vos Group #90 — Four Divisions of Revelation by Christ

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Join us as we discuss the four divisions of revelation by Christ beginning on p. 344 in Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. We will unpack Vos’s comprehensive categorization of revelation by Christ, which he divides into four distinct yet interconnected periods:

Natural or General Revelation: Extending from creation and continuing indefinitely, revealing God’s nature and attributes through the world around us.
Old Testament Revelation: Spanning from the entrance of sin to the incarnation, highlighting God’s redemptive plan through the history and prophecy of the Old Testament.
Revelation during Christ’s Earthly Ministry: Covering his life, teaching, miracles, death, resurrection, and ascension, manifesting the fullness of God in human form.
Revelation through His Chosen Servants: Extending from Christ’s ascension to the death of the last apostle, communicated through the inspired writings and teachings of his disciples under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We explore how these revelations unfold in a linear, biblical-theological manner, emphasizing Christ’s activity before and after the incarnation. We discuss the significance of natural revelation, the pivotal moments of Old Testament prophecy, the profound truths revealed during Christ’s ministry, and the ongoing impact of apostolic teaching.

Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the coherence and unity of God’s redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture. We also reflect on the continuing relevance of these revelations for the church today and how they inform our worship, theology, and daily living.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:34 The Essential Revelatory Function of the Logos
00:04:50 The Four Divisions of Revelation by Christ
00:13:11 Natural/General Revelation
00:26:36 The Prologue to John’s Gospel
00:33:25 Revelation under the Economy of the Old Testament
00:44:05 Revelation in Jesus’ Public Ministry
00:47:14 Character- and Word-Revelation
00:58:04 Revelation Post-Ascension
01:01:01 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Reformed Church in the Philippines

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Camden Bucey connects with Jim Cassidy, pastor of South Austin OPC and president of the Reformed Forum board, to discuss global theological education and Reformed missions. Dr. Cassidy shares insights from his recent trip to the Philippines, where he taught Reformed theology to village pastors and engaged with local congregations deeply committed to confessional Reformed theology.

The conversation highlights the vibrant yet challenging landscape of Reformed education in the Philippines. Dr. Cassidy details his work with Heidelberg Seminary and the Pearl of the Orient Covenant Reformed Church, emphasizing the growing hunger for robust theological training in a predominantly Roman Catholic country. The episode underscores the vital role of Reformed Forum’s online resources, which provide accessible, high-quality theological education to students worldwide.

Join us as we explore the current state of Reformed missions, the unique challenges faced by international churches, and the strategic importance of theological education in cultivating a mature, self-sustaining global Reformed community. This episode is a compelling look at how God is using modern technology and faithful teaching to spread the gospel and strengthen the global church.

Listen in for a thoughtful discussion on the future of Reformed education, the impact of Reformed Forum’s resources, and the ongoing mission to equip believers worldwide with sound doctrine.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
04:57 The Reformed Labors in Philippines
14:52 The Need for an Established On-Site Seminary
22:18 The History of Reformed Missions in Philippines
28:10 Ministerial Training and Church Planting
37:29 International Awareness of Theological Issues
39:47 Providing Resources to People Hungry for Reformed Theology
49:34 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Global Theological Education

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we approach the critical topic of Reformed global theological education and discipleship. Join us as we explore the unique challenges and incredible opportunities present in various regions around the world, including Hungary, Latvia, Germany, Moldova, and beyond.

We’ll hear insights from Reformed pastors and missionaries, who share their experiences and perspectives on the cultural, linguistic, and practical aspects of providing robust theological training in diverse contexts.

Tune in for a compelling discussion that not only highlights the needs but also presents actionable steps and opportunities for making a significant impact in the global Reformed community. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or someone passionate about theological education, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for contributing to the advancement of Reformed theology worldwide.

Chapters

00:00:06 Introduction
00:01:44 An Update on Global Theological Education
00:04:31 Recent Travel for Reformed Forum
00:07:33 Summary of Conversations with Pastors and Missionaries
00:24:14 Supporting Global Theological Education
00:30:45 Paul Sanduleac, Moldova
00:37:07 Raul Profire, Romania
00:42:29 Jaroslav, Belarus
00:48:26 Artis Celmins, Latvia
00:53:49 Imre Szöke, Hungary
01:02:47 Peter Szabo, Hungary
01:03:40 Andreas Repp, Germany
01:13:56 Jonathan Master of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
01:33:09 Joshua Gielow of TruthXchange
01:39:13 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Master, Joshua Gielow

Church Membership

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In Church Membership, Jonathan Landry Cruse emphasizes the biblical and theological necessity of formal church membership. Cruse argues that church membership is not merely a social or optional commitment but a vital and commanded aspect of Christian discipleship. The book contends that being a member of a local church is essential for spiritual growth, accountability, and fulfilling God’s design for communal worship and service.

Jonathan Landry Cruse is pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (Orthodox Presbyterian Church) in Kalamazoo, Michigan. In his writing, Cruse aims to make complex theological concepts accessible to a broader audience. His works often address foundational elements of church life, including worship, preaching, and the sacraments, underscoring the importance of church membership and community.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:07:13 Thinking about Church Membership
00:17:38 The Visible and Invisible Church and the Covenant
00:30:26 The Duty to Join the Church
00:37:09 Biblical Church Metaphors
00:42:59 The Benefits of Church Membership
00:57:08 Moving toward Others
01:01:07 Church Discipline
01:07:45 Final Remarks
01:10:29 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Jonathan Landry Cruse

Vos Group #89 — The Various Aspects of Christ’s Revealing Function

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In chapter 5 of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology (pp. 343ff), the focus is on the various aspects of Jesus’ revelation during his public ministry. Vos argues that the revelation mediated by Jesus is often mistakenly confined to his earthly life, ignoring his pre-existence and post-existence, both of which are integral to the comprehensive scheme of divine revelation.

Vos outlines that Jesus’ earthly revelation functioned within a specific framework, implying limitations that did not exist in his pre-existent and post-existent states. These limitations were not due to any inadequacy in Jesus’ knowledge or power but were part of a divine scheme that required a progressive unfolding of revelation. Vos emphasizes that Jesus did not intend to reveal the entire volume of divine truth during his earthly ministry but functioned as a pivotal link within the continuum of revelation that includes both the Old and New Testaments.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:31 The Revelation of Jesus
00:20:57 The Generation of the Son
00:32:51 The Son as a Divine Person
00:44:07 Jesus’ Post-Existence
00:48:25 The Progressive Covenantal Character of Christ’s Ministry
00:55:24 Beyond the Incarnation
01:01:34 Kenosis
01:08:20 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Auburn Affirmation at 100

Fri, 31 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we commemorate the centennial of the Auburn Affirmation, exploring its profound impact on the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the broader Christian community. We explore the theological crossroads of the early twentieth century, marked by the rise of modernism and the publication of The Fundamentals. We discuss the significant events that led to the Auburn Affirmation, including Harry Emerson Fosdick’s influential sermon and the subsequent controversies that reshaped American Protestantism.

Reflecting on these historical developments, we consider the ongoing relevance of confessional fidelity and integrity in today’s church. Join us as we examine how the Auburn Affirmation’s call for theological tolerance challenges our understanding of doctrinal adherence, and how we can navigate these waters with a commitment to both truth and unity. This episode offers valuable insights into maintaining the church’s distinct witness and enduring relevance in a pluralistic society.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:06:46 The Background of the Auburn Affirmation
00:17:16 The Affirmationists’s Desire for Tolerance
00:24:28 The 1923 General Assembly
00:33:07 Confessional Fidelity and Integrity
00:39:49 Machen, Vos, and the Significance of God’s Redemptive Acts in History
00:45:33 Biblical Eschatology
00:51:59 Liberals, Conservatives, and American Culture
00:58:55 Responding to the Auburn Affirmation
01:07:40 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

Van Til Group #13 — Roman Catholic and Evangelical Views of Sin and Human Consciousness

Fri, 24 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this installment of Van Til Group, we turn to pp. 73–77 of Cornelius Van Til’s classic book, The Defense of the Faith. In this section, Van Til critiques both Roman Catholicism and certain strands of Evangelicalism for their approach to human autonomy and the nature of sin.

Van Til argues that Roman Catholicism, as represented by Thomas Aquinas, assigns too much autonomy to human consciousness, even before the Fall, which undermines the Scriptural notion of authority and total depravity. He contends that Aquinas views fallen man as not entirely different from Adam in paradise, thus diminishing the need for grace.

Similarly, Van Til criticizes C.S. Lewis, representing a segment of Evangelical thought, for conflating metaphysical and ethical issues and for not adequately emphasizing human disobedience to God as the root of ethical problems. Both perspectives, according to Van Til, fail to uphold the biblical doctrine that only through faith and complete reliance on the triune God of Scripture can true ethical behavior be achieved.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:48 Support Reformed Forum
00:10:35 A Christian Philosophy of Behavior
00:18:48 Roman Catholicism as Halfway between Christianity and Paganism
00:28:38 The Relationship between Natural and Special Revelation
00:41:36 The Natural vs the Supernatural End of Created Man in Thomistic Theology
01:02:45 Evangelicalism and C. S. Lewis’s Views
01:13:11 Conclusion

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

The Reformation in the French-Speaking World

Fri, 17 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Camden Bucey provides a preview of our upcoming symposium scheduled for Saturday, May 18, 2024. In this event, we will explore pivotal moments and figures in the history of the Reformed tradition. This event will feature four presentations and related discussions on critical theological developments and historical events that have shaped the Protestant Church, particularly within the French-speaking world. Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply passionate about church history and theology, this symposium offers enriching insights into the enduring legacy and challenges of the Reformed tradition.

Sessions

Dan Borvan: The Church Under the Cross: An Overview of the French Reformed Church
David Noe: Theodore Beza at the Colloquy of Poissy (1561)
Marty Klauber: The Eucharistic Theology of Jean Mestrezat
Stephen Davis: The War of the Camisards (1702–1704): Huguenot Resistance Under Louis XIV

Visit https://www.reformedforum.org/francophone for more information.

We also include the first two lessons in Dr. Carlton Wynne’s new course on John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion, Books 1–2.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:29 Symposium on the Reformation in the Francophone World
00:06:57 Overview of the French Reformed Church
00:11:30 Beza at the Colloquy of Poissy
00:13:12 The Eucharistic Theology of Jean Mestrezat
00:15:12 The War of the Camisards (1702–1704)
00:18:09 Carlton Wynne’s Course on Calvin’s Institutes, Books 1-2
00:23:38 Introduction to Calvin’s Institutes
00:52:03 John Calvin the Man
01:26:01 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey

Reformed Evangelism

Fri, 10 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

This episode addresses the heart of Reformed evangelism, featuring a compelling conversation with the Rev. Paul Murphy, pastor of evangelism at Messiah’s Reformed Fellowship in New York, and Dr. Eric Watkins, director of the Center for Missions and Evangelism at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. In this conversation, we explore the unique approach of Reformed theology to evangelism, addressing common stereotypes, and addressing the challenges and opportunities for spreading the gospel in urban settings.

We unpack the misconception that Reformed Christians do not engage in evangelism, shedding light on the historical and theological roots of this stereotype. It also highlights the exciting new opportunities, including church planting and revitalization efforts in Chicago and New York.

Listeners will gain insights into the distinct aspects of Reformed evangelism, as outlined by the Reformed creeds and confessions, and the importance of understanding one’s role within the Body of Christ. The discussion emphasizes the need for a culture of evangelism within local congregations and offers practical suggestions for fostering this culture.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:01:00 Eric Watkins’ Ministry
00:05:31 Paul Murphy’s Ministry in Manhattan
00:11:19 The Stereotype of Reformed Churches and Evangelism
00:20:44 Distinctives of Reformed Evangelism
00:28:08 Understanding the Great Commission
00:37:48 The Urgency of Evangelism
00:55:30 Personal Stories about Evangelism
01:02:03 The Vitality of New Believers
01:05:28 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Eric Watkins, Paul Murphy

Vos Group #88 — Temptability and Peccability

Fri, 03 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the intriguing account of Jesus’ temptation by Satan in the wilderness. Join us as we explore the profound insights offered by Geerhardus Vos on pages 339–342 in his work Biblical Theology and unpack the ultimate issue at stake in this cosmic confrontation: Who should be God, and whose Messiah would Jesus be?

We grapple with the perplexing questions surrounding Jesus’ temptability and peccability. How could a sinless Jesus be tempted, and what does this imply about his ability to sin? We examine Vos’s argument that the things Satan suggested were not inherently sinful, only wrong due to God’s prohibition, and consider how this differs from modern interpretations that see the temptations as allurements towards a worldly, political messianic role.

Vos’s work invites us to ponder the profound mystery of a fully human Jesus who is intimately united with the Holy Spirit and possesses a divine nature. We consider how these unique aspects of Jesus’ identity make his sinlessness even more unthinkable than Adam’s, and we wrestle with the implications for our understanding of Jesus’ impeccability.

Through a careful analysis of Vos’s insights and a lively discussion of the theological complexities involved, we aim to shed light on this pivotal moment in Jesus’ earthly mission and its significance for our faith. Join us as we explore the depths of Jesus’ commitment to the path of humiliation and suffering, and the ultimate triumph of his messianic glory.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:33 Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation
00:07:31 Camden’s Trip to Budapest and Vienna
00:14:09 Temptability and Peccability
00:22:50 Bavinck and Vos on the Person of the Son
00:37:59 The Nature of Jesus’ Temptation
00:42:48 Other Theories of the Messianic Nature of the Temptation
00:46:41 Christ’s Victory Comes through Suffering unto Glory
00:52:06 Satan’s Intent to Circumvent Redemption
01:00:17 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Van Til and the Foundation of Christian Ethics

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we welcome Scott J. Hatch, author of Reformed Forum’s latest publication, Van Til and the Foundation of Christian Ethics: A God-Centered Approach to Moral Philosophy, to consider the profound relationship between theology and ethics as articulated by Cornelius Van Til. In addition to providing an original treatment of the subject, Hatch has also edited a critical edition of Van Til’s Christian-Theistic Ethics, which is included as a lengthy appendix in this volume. This never before been available, and anyone interested in the thought of Cornelius Van Til should surely get a copy for their library.

This insightful conversation illuminates Van Til’s unique approach to Christian ethics, emphasizing a God-centered moral philosophy grounded in the doctrine of the self-contained ontological Trinity. Hatch explores Van Til’s critique of moral relativism and how his theological framework offers a compelling solution to ethical dilemmas, contrasting with the perspectives of other ethicists and theologians.

The episode promises to enrich understanding of Christian ethics through the lens of Reformed theology, challenging believers to consider the foundational role of the Triune God in all moral considerations. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of how Cornelius Van Til’s groundbreaking work continues to shape contemporary discussions on Christian ethics, offering a robust, God-centered approach that speaks to the challenges of modern moral relativism.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:12 Being Introduced to Cornelius Van Til’s Theology and Apologetics
00:09:54 Versions of Van Til’s Ethics
00:21:24 The Uniqueness of Van Til’s Ethical Approach
00:28:42 Ethics and the Doctrine of God
00:36:44 Alasdair MacIntryre and Critiques of Moral Relativism
00:45:11 Critiques and Misunderstandings of Van Til’s Ethics
00:53:29 Van Til’s Value for Future Generations
00:59:13 For Further Study
01:03:54 Conclusion

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Scott Hatch

Ministering to Those Affected by Sexual Sin

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We welcome Mark Sanders, President of Harvest USA, for an enriching dialogue on confronting and healing from sexual brokenness within the church. As our society grapples with rapidly evolving norms around gender and sexuality, the church is called to respond with both theological depth and compassionate outreach. Harvest USA stands at the forefront of this mission, offering resources, discipleship, and education to equip believers to address these challenges through the lens of Reformed theology.

Throughout this conversation, Camden Bucey and Mark Sanders discuss the significance of understanding our identity in Christ and how it shapes our approach to sexual ethics. They discuss the “Harvest Tree” model—a comprehensive biblical framework employed by Harvest USA to aid individuals and families in navigating sexual brokenness with biblical fidelity. The episode also spotlights new initiatives from Harvest USA, including free courses designed to assist parents in raising sexually faithful children and addressing gender confusion with grace and truth.

Listeners will gain insights into the theological underpinnings that guide Harvest USA‘s ministry, emphasizing the importance of a proper ecclesiology and a biblically grounded anthropology. This episode not only addresses the pressing issues of our time but also offers hope and direction for the church to minister effectively in a culture of confusion and search for identity.

Join us for an enlightening discussion that bridges deep theological concepts with practical application, illuminating the path toward healing and wholeness in Christ amidst a world of sexual and gender confusion. Visit harvestusa.org for more resources and information on how you can engage with this important ministry.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
04:06 The History and Ministry of Harvest USA
10:04 Reformed Theological Anthropology
25:47 Courses Available through Harvest
30:37 Discipling Your Children
37:35 The Tree Model
44:32 Thoughts from the Front Line
54:10 Additional Resources
57:18 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Mark Sanders

Training and Equipping Missionaries

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Christ the Center is on the road as Camden Bucey speaks with two guests from the Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary Conference. This episode explores Reformed theology and its profound impact on missions. Camden is joined by Chad Vegas, founding pastor of Sovereign Grace Church and founding board chairman of Radius International, along with Jonathan Master, president of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, to explore the vital relationship between theological education and missionary work.

The conversation covers a broad spectrum, from the excitement surrounding the seminary’s annual spring conference to the innovative partnership between Greenville Seminary and Radius International, aimed at equipping the next generation for church planting among unreached language groups. Chad Vegas also shares his personal journey from a dispensationalist background to embracing Reformed theology and the inception of Radius International. This episode sheds light on the challenges and strategies of missionary work, emphasizing the necessity of a solid biblical foundation, cultural sensitivity, and the indispensable role of the local church in sending and supporting missionaries. Join us for an engaging discussion that reaffirms the vital role of Reformed theology in advancing the gospel to the ends of the earth.

Chapters

[00:00:07] Introduction
[00:06:35] Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and a Focus on Missions
[00:08:35] Radius International and Church Planting among Unreached Groups
[00:12:43] Missionary Training and Biblical Foundations
[00:18:13] Historical and Theological Foundations of Missions
[00:23:22] A Personal Journey to Reformed Theology
[00:39:13] Development of Radius International
[00:48:24] Missionary Work and Cultural Engagement
[00:58:46] Evolving Role of Reformed Theology in Modern Missions
[01:10:09] Future Directions for Presbyterian Missions

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Vegas, Jonathan Master

Vos Group #87 — Deuteronomy and the Temptation of Jesus

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this installment of Vos Group, we turn to p. 336 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, focusing on the temptations of Jesus Christ. This discussion ventures into the heart of Jesus’ wilderness temptations, offering a rich, theological analysis that challenges and enlightens. We consider the strategic use of Old Testament quotations by Jesus during his confrontation with Satan, underscoring the deep, theological significance of these moments.

This episode not only unpacks the unique messianic nature of Jesus’s temptations but also firmly opposes a moralizing interpretation, instead highlighting the redemptive work accomplished through Christ’s victory over sin. Through a careful examination of Jesus as the obedient Son and true Israel, this episode reveals the layers of meaning in these biblical narratives, connecting them to broader themes of redemption, covenant theology, and the Christian life. As we understand Jesus’ role as the mediator who binds and spoils the strong man, this episode encourages believers to find their identity in Christ, resting in his victorious work on our behalf.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
04:44 Jesus’ Temptation as a Prime Example of His Earthly Ministry
08:43 The Wilderness Temptation
17:10 The Temple Temptation
23:05 The Mountain Temptation
28:44 The Emphases of Matthew and Luke
38:38 Overcoming in Jesus and Entering Paradise
45:01 Looking Ahead
48:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The History of the PCA Standing Judicial Commission

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Reformed Forum exhibited at the Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary conference in Greer, SC. This episode offers a deep dive into the Confessional Presbyterian Journal’s latest issue, with a special focus on the 50th anniversary of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) and the historical development of the PCA’s Standing Judicial Commission (SJC). Camden Bucey brings together Rev. Zachary Groff, pastor of Antioch Presbyterian Church, and Dr. Scott Cook, visiting professor of apologetics at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, both of whom are deeply involved in the Confessional Presbyterian Journal.

The conversation starts with an exploration of the journal itself, highlighting its dedication to addressing pressing issues in the church through a blend of pastoral scholarship and rigorous theological analysis. The latest issue’s theme revolves around the PCA’s 50th anniversary, offering a collection of articles that reflect on the denomination’s history, mission, and theological commitments.

Zachary Groff provides an overview of the journal’s contents, emphasizing the significance of the PCA’s commitment to the Great Commission and its historical context. He mentions various contributions that examine the PCA’s foundation, its growth, and its ongoing theological debates, particularly those concerning the church’s mission and the inclusivity of nations in God’s plan through Christ.

Dr. Scott Cook focuses on the specific topic of the PCA’s Standing Judicial Commission, outlining its origin and evolution. He describes the initial challenges faced by the PCA in maintaining discipline and order within its rapidly growing community. Cook traces the SJC’s development back to the 1980s, a period marked by significant debate and eventual compromise within the denomination. He articulates the tension between the desire for a grassroots, decentralized approach to church governance and the practical need for an efficient, centralized judicial body to handle disciplinary cases. This part of the conversation sheds light on the broader issues of polity and ecclesiastical authority within the PCA and offers insights into how the denomination has navigated these challenges over the years.

Throughout the episode, the guests underscore the Confessional Presbyterian Journal’s role in fostering informed theological conversation and community engagement within the Reformed tradition. The discussion not only celebrates the PCA’s past achievements but also critically examines its struggles and future directions, particularly in the realms of theological fidelity, church discipline, and mission.

Chapters

00:00:07 – Introduction
00:03:38 – Guest Introductions: Rev. Zachary Groff and Dr. Scott Cook
00:07:35 – In-depth Look at the Confessional Presbyterian Journal
00:23:00 – The Formation and Significance of the PCA’s Standing Judicial Commission
00:27:06 – Challenges and Future Directions for the PCA
00:56:35 – The Development of the SJC: From Concept to Reality
01:00:20 – The Challenges and Controversies of Implementing the SJC
01:04:26 – Reflecting on Growth and the Future of the PCA
01:12:23 – Reflecting on PCA’s Place in the Reformed World

Participants: Camden Bucey, Scott Cook, Zachary Groff

Consciences and the Reformation

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this enlightening episode, we discuss the nuances of conscience and confessional identity during the Reformation. Joined by Dr. Timothy Scheuers, we turn our attention to the transformative period of the 16th century, exploring how conscience acted not only as a catalyst for reform but also as a complex element influencing church unity, confessional standards, and the intricate relationship between church and state.

The core of our discussion centers around Dr. Scheuer’s book, Consciences and the Reformation: Scruples over Oaths and Confessions in the Era of Calvin and His Contemporaries (Oxford University Press), providing a fresh perspective on the role of conscience in driving forward the Reformation’s agenda. We explore the pivotal moments and figures of this era, including Calvin’s return to Geneva and the establishment of the Geneva Academy, to understand how these historical milestones continue to influence contemporary Christian thought and practice.

Through a blend of historical examination and practical application, this episode not only sheds light on the foundational aspects of Reformed theology but also invites listeners to reflect on the relevance of these principles in today’s ecclesiastical landscape. Whether you’re a theologian, a pastor, or simply someone interested in Christian history and doctrine, this episode offers valuable insights into the enduring legacy of the Reformation and its significance for the contemporary church.

Rev. Scheuers is the Associate Pastor of First United Reformed Church of Chino, CA, and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of History at Providence Christian College (Pasadena, CA).

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:05:49 Discovering the Topic
00:12:57 Conscience and the Reformation
00:18:59 Church-State Relations
00:24:47 Dissimulation and Conscience in the Reformation
00:31:57 The Role of Conscience in Calvin’s Geneva
00:49:44 Calvin’s Return to Geneva and Changes in Approach
00:59:58 The Effect of Sin on the Conscience
01:15:27 The Geneva Academy and Confessional Subscription
01:20:48 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa, Tim Scheuers

A Devotional Guide to the Westminster Shorter Catechism

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we speak with William Boekestein, Jonathan Landry Cruse, and Andrew J. Miller, the authors behind a new book, Glorifying and Enjoying God: 52 Devotions through the Westminster Shorter Catechism. These three pastors and theologians share their insights and experiences from their journey through the Westminster Shorter Catechism, offering listeners a unique opportunity to understand the profound theological truths encapsulated in this historic summary of faith.

William Boekestein, serving the Immanuel Fellowship Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan, alongside his wife Amy and their four children, brings a pastoral heart to our discussion. Jonathan Landry Cruse, author of What Happens When We Worship and pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Kalamazoo, where he resides with his wife and three children, offers a perspective enriched by his literary and ministerial endeavors. Andrew J. Miller, the Regional Home Missionary for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in central Pennsylvania, shares his extensive missionary experiences, living out the catechism’s teachings alongside his wife Rebekah and their five children.

Together, they speak about the motivations behind their collaborative work, the importance of the Westminster Shorter Catechism in today’s Christian walk, and how the book aims to deepen the reader’s love and knowledge of God. Join us as we explore how understanding God leads to a richer relationship with Him, and how the intertwined nature of heart and mind can bring us closer to the glory and enjoyment of God.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
03:12 Ministry in Kalamazoo
04:43 Church Planting in Central Pennsylvania
06:18 Beginning the Book Project
11:21 Reformed Ecumenism and Confessional Standards
18:06 Organizing the Shorter Catechism into 52 Sections
24:56 A Devotional Mindset
26:47 How to Use the Book
27:47 The Chief End of Man
33:23 The Relationship of the Catechism to the Bible
40:51 The Abiding Relevance of the Catechism’s Questions
43:22 Scripture and Catechetical Memorization
50:24 Lessons Learned and Pleasant Surprises
53:58 Make the Catechism Great Again
56:12 Conclusion

Participants: Andrew J. Miller, Camden Bucey, Jonathan Landry Cruse, William Boekestein

Life in the Negative World

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we welcome Aaron Renn, author of Life in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture, to explore the profound shifts in cultural attitudes towards Christianity and the broader implications for faith in the modern era. Renn, with a diverse background ranging from management and technology consulting at Accenture, to urban policy as a Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research, and now a Senior Fellow at American Reformer, brings a unique perspective to the discussion. His extensive work has been featured in globally recognized publications such as The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, and The Atlantic.

Life in the Negative World considers the dramatic changes in societal views on Christianity, tracing the journey from the mid-twentieth century—when church attendance was at its peak—to the present day, where professing Christian beliefs often results in social demotion within elite circles. Renn examines the transition from a once Christianity-affirming society to one that is, at best, indifferent, and at worst, hostile to Christian morals and teachings. In our conversation, he articulates the lessons learned from over seven decades of Christian cultural engagement, offering insightful strategies for churches, institutions, and individuals to maintain their faithfulness in an increasingly adversarial environment.

This episode is not just a reflection on the challenges faced by modern Christians but also a guide on how to navigate these tumultuous waters with grace, resilience, and a deepened faith. Renn emphasizes the necessity for a diverse array of strategies to engage missionally with a world that often seems at odds with Christian values. Whether you’re a person of faith struggling to find your place in this “negative world,” a church leader seeking direction for your community, or simply interested in the evolving relationship between religion and society, this conversation with Aaron Renn offers valuable insights and hope for the path forward.

Join us as we discuss the implications of living out one’s faith in an era that increasingly marginalizes Christian perspectives, and discover how to embrace the challenges of the negative world with courage and conviction.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
05:28 The Story behind the Book
09:08 The Three Worlds Model
12:55 The Benedict Option
16:53 Improvements from the Article to the Book
19:55 Life Examples among the Different Worlds
27:04 The Beginning of the Negative World
30:16 Practical Strategies for Living in the Negative World
41:53 Thoughts on Preparing for Dystopian Futures
49:56 Conclusion

Participants: Aaron Renn, Camden Bucey

Van Til Group #12 — The Christian Philosophy of Behavior

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this installment of Van Til Group, we turn to the section of Defense of the Faith (pp. 69–72), which begins the chapter titled “The Christian Philosophy of Behavior.” This section outlines the Christian perspective on ethics, drawing from the Reformed confessions to emphasize that human actions, or behavior, should aim to glorify God. It presents a confessional scheme focusing on three key aspects: the highest good (summum bonum) that humans should strive for, the criterion for achieving this good (which must be based on God’s revealed will in Scripture), and the motivation for pursuing this good, highlighting the necessity of faith and regeneration by the Holy Spirit for genuine ethical action.

The chapter then considers the relationship between ethics and the Christian philosophy of knowledge. It asserts that understanding God’s nature is fundamental to grasping the essence of Christian ethics, with God’s absolute personality serving as the ultimate interpretative category for human existence. This perspective contrasts with non-Christian views by emphasizing that the good is defined by God’s nature and will, rather than existing independently.

The section on “Man as Made in God’s Image” discusses the original moral perfection of humanity, created in the image of the Godhead, and underscores the derivative nature of human moral consciousness. Unlike non-Christian ethics, which may view moral consciousness as the ultimate arbiter of good, Christian ethics sees it as reliant on divine revelation. This foundational difference in epistemology between Christian and non-Christian thought underscores the Christian belief in a receptive rather than creative construction of moral knowledge, with humanity’s moral nature and external revelation jointly guiding ethical understanding.

Chapters

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

Irony and the Presbyterian Church in America

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we sit down with David Hall, Senior Pastor of Midway Presbyterian Church in Powder Springs, GA, and a prolific author, to discuss his latest book, Irony and the Presbyterian Church in America: The First Fifty Years. Hall’s work, a historical and analytical exploration of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), offers a unique perspective on the denomination’s fifty-year journey since its inception in 1973. Through the lens of irony, reminiscent of Greek dramas, Hall examines the PCA’s evolution within the wider context of American Presbyterianism.

David Hall is the author of more than 40 books, including influential titles like Savior or Servant? Putting Government in Its Place and The Legacy of John Calvin. As the Founder and Senior Fellow of the Kuyper Institute and a leading figure in the Calvin500 celebration, Hall’s expertise offers a profound look into the PCA’s successes, challenges, and the critical question: can it avoid the decline that other religious communions have faced?

Chapters

0:00:07 Introduction
0:02:10 The Reformation Worship Conference
0:15:10 A History of the PCA at 50
0:19:54 This Book among Other Histories of the PCA
0:23:33 Irony as a Theme for the PCA
0:36:34 Looking Backward and Forward
0:40:06 Perspective for the Future of the PCA
0:47:57 Joining and Receiving: The RPCES and OPC
1:00:58 Conclusion

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

Understanding Family Worship

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Camden Bucey engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Terry Johnson, Senior Minister of Independent Presbyterian Church in Savannah, Georgia and the author of Understanding Family Worship: Its History, Theology, and Practice (Christian Focus).

This book provides a timely perspective on family worship. Rev. Johnson reflects on his personal journey, starting with the birth of his first child, which sparked a deep commitment to family worship. Johnson emphasizes the need for consistency and the avoidance of lethargy in practicing family worship. He discusses the challenges and strategies for implementing daily family worship, highlighting the importance of a godly home environment for its effectiveness.

The conversation also covers theological arguments supporting family worship, rooted in Reformed doctrine, and practical aspects like singing, prayer, Scripture reading, and the role of catechesis in family life. The episode concludes with encouragement for families to embrace this historic Christian practice, underscoring its foundational role in imparting faith and nurturing spiritual growth within the family unit.

Terry is the author/compiler of the Trinity Psalter and Leading in Worship, and author of The Case for Traditional Protestantism (published by the Trust), Reformed Worship, and the trilogy, When Grace Comes Home, When Grace Transforms, and When Grace Comes Alive. He and his wife, Emily, have five children.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
01:24 Introducing the Historic Practice of Family Worship
06:58 The Forgotten Practice of Family Worship
13:10 The Setting of Family Worship: The Godly Home
15:52 The Case for Family Worship
22:37 The Elements of Family Worship
31:57 Overcoming Barriers to Family Worship
35:35 Catechesis
44:33 Other Works on Family Worship
48:23 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Terry Johnson

Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we welcome Drs. Benjamin Gladd and G. K. Beale, co-editors of The Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament (Baker Academic) along with D. A. Carson and Andrew Naselli. We explore various theological and biblical topics, particularly focusing on the intricate relationship between the New Testament and the Old Testament. This conversation includes examining how New Testament writers drew upon and interpreted Old Testament texts, shedding light on the continuity and development of biblical themes across the testaments. The episode illuminates the complex intertextuality present in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of understanding these connections for a more comprehensive grasp of Christian theology.

Additionally, the dialogue touches upon various methods and challenges in biblical scholarship, including the interpretation of biblical allusions and the significance of these allusions in understanding the New Testament’s fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and typologies. Drs. Gladd and Beale’s expertise provides a rich, nuanced perspective on these subjects, making the episode particularly valuable for those interested in deepening their understanding of biblical theology and the hermeneutical principles underlying the study of Scripture.

Chapters

0:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome
0:57 – New Testament Use of the Old Testament
2:17 – Current Projects and Articles
4:38 – The Study Bible Project
13:54 – Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament
18:00 – Evangelical Perspective and Competing Works
20:00 – Biblical Intertextuality and Hermeneutics
43:04 – Practical Applications for Pastors and Students
51:11 – Future of Biblical Theology and Studies
1:03:33 – Conclusion and Resources

Participants: Benjamin Gladd, Camden Bucey, Greg Beale

In the Beginning: Considering the Historicity of Genesis 1 and 2

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Dr. Cornelis Van Dam joins us to speak about his book In the Beginning: Listening to Genesis 1 and 2, in which he argues that reading Genesis 1 and 2 as history is not only justified but necessary. Van Dam clarifies the different roles that ancient Near Eastern literature and scientific theories should play in our understanding of the Bible as he carefully deals with the exegetical details of the first two chapters of the Bible. He writes:

The focus of this work is therefore not to give an all-around commentary and explanation of every verse in Genesis 1 and 2, but to listen to Scripture in order to find out what God is revealing to us about the historicity of the beginning chapters of Genesis. Concentrating on listening to what Scripture actually says brings with it the realization that the reader of the Word has a relatively modest place. The one who listens to Scripture acknowledges that the Word, not the reader, determines the meaning of the text (p. 9).

Dr. Van Dam is an Old Testament scholar, who has served with distinction as a professor of Old Testament at the Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary from 1981 to 2011. He holds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier University, Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary, Knox College at the University of Toronto, and the Theological University of Kampen. Over his career, he has made significant contributions to Old Testament scholarship, with a special focus on the Pentateuch. He is the author of notable works including In the Beginning: Listening to Genesis 1 and 2, The Elder, and The Deacon. These publications reflect his commitment to exploring not merely themes in biblical studies but also their implications for Christian doctrine and practice.

Dr. Van Dam was honored in 2011 with a Festschrift titled Living Waters from Ancient Springs: Essays in Honor of Cornelis Van Dam. This volume, featuring contributions from notable scholars such as Hans Boersma and Al Wolters, is a testament to his significant impact on theological scholarship and his enduring legacy in biblical studies.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
06:10 The Impetus for this Book
09:36 The Impact of the Enlightenment
12:34 Christian Presuppositions about Science and the Bible
17:47 The Purpose of Scripture and Nature of Its Language
23:10 The Length of Days at Creation
30:00 The Role of Extra-biblical Evidence
35:20 Cosmology and Phenomenology
39:35 The Framework View
45:08 The Seventh Day
47:09 What Does It Matter?
52:07 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cornelis Van Dam, Ryan Noha

Vos Group #86 — The Lord’s Temptation and Our Own

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this installment of our Vos Group, we turn to pp. 335–336 of Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to explore the uniquely messianic nature of these temptations, examining how Christ’s experiences differ significantly from human temptations. A key theme of this passage is the comparison of Christ’s temptation with Adam’s, emphasizing Christ’s role as the second Adam and the federal head encountering temptation.

Vos warns against a moralizing interpretation of the temptations, instead focusing on their theocentric character and their relation to true religion. The episode further explores the role of the Holy Spirit in these temptations, particularly in empowering Christ and highlighting the inauguration of the kingdom of God.

The discussion is rich in its exploration of redemptive history, connecting Christ’s wilderness temptations to the broader biblical narrative, from Adam’s failure to Israel’s typological sonship, leading to Christ’s successful fulfillment of God’s commands as the obedient Son of God. This comprehensive analysis aims to deepen understanding of Christ’s work and encourages listeners to appreciate the significance of these biblical events in the context of the entire history of salvation.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
04:32 The Religious Character of Jesus’ Temptations
09:39 Jesus’ Temptation Compared and Contrasted with Adam’s
16:40 Encouragement for Sinners
19:54 The Nature of the Temptations and Jesus’ Use of the Law
25:25 Satan’s Strategy in Tempting Jesus
32:33 Israel’s Temptation and Christ as the Obedient Son of God
40:21 The Work of the Spirit in Jesus’ Temptation
53:08 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Church Order and Parliamentary Procedure

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Join us on this week’s episode as we speak with Fred Greco, pastor of Christ Church in Katy, Texas. He is a trusted authority on parliamentary procedure and church polity and moderator of the PCA’s 50th General Assembly. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, alongside his wife, Deb, Fred’s academic journey in Classics and History from the University of Buffalo paved the way to a career in law after acquiring his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School.

As a corporate attorney specializing in commercial finance and real estate law in Cleveland, Ohio, Fred’s life took an interesting turn when he was ordained as a ruling elder in the PCA, sparking his transition from business to the pulpit. The call to ministry led him and his family to the heart of Texas, where he now serves as the Senior Pastor of Christ Church. In this episode, we’ll explore Rev. Greco’s rich life experiences, from his expertise in law to his heart for ministry. We’ll explore the relationship between his legal training and his ecclesiastical service, and how this unique background informs his understanding of governance within the church.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
04:02 Fred’s Journey from Buffalo to Houston
17:07 Being Introduced to Church Governance
22:59 Biblical Principles and Parliamentary Procedure
30:30 Implementing Rules for Assemblies
36:59 Teaching Church Members about Polity
42:38 The PCA at 50
52:13 Witnesses in Church Courts and a Binding BCO
56:18 Additional Resources
58:18 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Fred Greco

The Royal Priesthood and the Glory of God

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

We welcome David Schrock to discuss his book The Royal Priesthood and the Glory of God in which he presents a biblical theology that explores the theme of priesthood throughout the Bible. The book demonstrates that the concept of priesthood, starting with Adam in the Garden of Eden, is central to understanding God’s plan for humanity and the overarching narrative of Scripture. Schrock argues that Adam, as the first priest in the biblical narrative, sets a pattern for priesthood that echoes through the patriarchs and is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This priesthood is not limited to a specific lineage or tribe but is a calling for all of God’s people.

The book traces the development of this theme from the Levitical priesthood of the Old Testament to the royal priesthood in Christ in the New Testament, fulfilling God’s purpose for humanity to serve as mediators of his presence and ministers of his covenant. Schrock’s work invites readers to see themselves as part of this royal priesthood, called to serve God and reflect his glory.

David S. Schrock is pastor for preaching and theology at Occoquan Bible Church in Woodbridge, Virginia. He is a founding faculty member at Indianapolis Theological Seminary, where he teaches theology.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
03:03 David Schrock’s Background and Activities
12:20 Definition of a Priest
16:18 The Threefold Office of Christ
20:58 Six Stages of Development in the Priesthood
26:35 Priests from Noah to Abraham and Melchizedek
30:24 The Priesthoods of Melchizedek and Christ
40:59 The Priesthood of All Believers
48:28 Conclusion

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Schrock

The Servant of the Lord and His Servant People

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Matthew S. Harmon, Professor of New Testament studies at Grace College and Theological Seminary. Camden Bucey engages Dr. Harmon in an exploration of his book, The Servant of the Lord and His Servant People, which explores the theme of servanthood across the biblical canon, offering insightful perspectives on this pervasive and significant motif.

During the episode, Dr. Harmon surveys several key biblical figures identified as servants of the Lord, including Adam, Moses, Joshua, David, and Jesus. The conversation also touches upon the New Testament, specifically Paul’s self-identification with the servant of the Lord described in Isaiah. Dr. Harmon elucidates how Paul, and by extension, the Christian church, embody this servant role through Christ’s indwelling, thereby continuing the mission of revealing God’s glory to the ends of the earth.

This episode promises to offer listeners profound insights into the biblical concept of servanthood and its implications for understanding both the Old and New Testaments, as well as its relevance for the Christian life today.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:08 Grace College and Theological Seminary in Winona Lake
00:05:25 New Testament Studies and Biblical Theology
00:13:23 The Story Behind the Book
00:18:47 Ancient and Contemporary Conceptions of Servants and Slaves
00:23:49 The Tendency to Reject Servitude
00:27:41 Adam as Servant of the Lord
00:32:21 Moses as Servant of the Lord
00:36:22 Joshua as Servant of the Lord
00:42:34 David as Servant of the Lord
00:45:50 Isaiah as Servant of the Lord
00:49:58 The Apostles and the Contemporary Church as Servants
00:53:53 Serving the Lord in Our Daily Lives
01:02:30 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Matthew Harmon

Highlights from 2023

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Since 2008, we have been taking time 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.

The Top Episodes of 2023 (by YouTube views)

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:26 The Top 10 Episodes of 2023
00:15:13 [Dan Ragusa] Preterism and 2 Peter 3
00:24:22 [Gray Sutanto and Cory Brock] A Theological Introduction to Neo-Calvinism
00:30:14 [Greg Beale] The New Testament Use of the Old Testament
00:39:28 [Carlton Wynne] Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion
00:46:58 [Camden Bucey] The Importance of Cornelius Van Til for Today
01:00:24 [Jim Cassidy] Introducing and Interpreting Karl Barth
01:12:16 [Danny Olinger] Christianity and Liberalism: Introduction
01:16:59 [Lane Tipton] Exitus and Reditus in the Theology of Thomas Aquinas
01:25:09 [Jonathan Master] Reformed Theology
01:34:52 [Michael Beck] Covenant Theology and Cultural Engagement in the Thought of Meredith G. Kline
01:40:52 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Cory Brock, Dan Ragusa, Danny Olinger, Greg Beale, Jim Cassidy, Jonathan Master, Lane G. Tipton, Michael Beck, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Natural Revelation, Religious Liberty, and the First Amendment

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Join us in this episode of Christ the Center, where host Camden Bucey engages in a free-flowing yet thoughtful discussion with Dr. Owen Anderson, philosopher and professor of religious studies at Arizona State University and pastor of Historic Christian Church in Phoenix. The conversation centers around the nuanced relationship between philosophy, religion, and the concept of free speech within academia and broader American culture.

The episode explores the current state of freedom of speech in higher education, highlighting its importance and the obstacles it faces today. Dr. Anderson shares his views on the roles of natural and revealed religion in American philosophical and legal traditions, and how these ideas have influenced the country’s development. Listeners will also appreciate the exploration of Common Sense Realism and its impact on the ideological framework of the American Founding Fathers. This episode provides a reflective look into the challenges of articulating and understanding truth in an increasingly complex age.

Listen in for a conversation that offers insightful perspectives on the intersections of philosophy, religion, and free speech in the modern era.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:19 Freedom of Speech in Academia and Current Events
00:07:07 Philosophical and Theological Considerations in Modern Culture
00:15:23 Natural Religion and Revealed Religion
00:22:35 The Role and Challenges of Free Speech in Universities
00:35:45 Interplay of Philosophy, Religion, and American Constitutional Principles
00:38:52 The Evolution of the Concept of God in American Thought and Law
00:44:19 Common Sense Realism and Its Impact on American Founding Fathers
00:52:29 Challenges of Communicating Truth in the Contemporary World
01:00:44 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Owen Anderson

Introduction to the Pentateuch / Year-End Update

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re excited to unveil the inaugural lesson of our new series, exploring the profound depths of the Pentateuch—the first five books of the Bible. Under the able guidance of Dr. Mark Winder, we’re providing a new course of study through six comprehensive, yet accessible, biblical-theological lessons, offering fresh insights into this foundational portion of Scripture.

Watch the course on YouTube

As we introduce this captivating course, join Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey for a reflective update on our year-end projects. We also extend a heartfelt invitation to support our mission through the Planting for the Future campaign. Your generous contributions are pivotal in helping Reformed Forum continue to offer an array of free, high-quality Reformed theological resources to a global audience. Discover more and contribute today.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:31 Reformed Forum at 2023 Year End
00:29:46 Introducing a Course on the Pentateuch
00:34:01 Mark Winder’s introductory lesson on the Pentateuch
01:24:06 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Mark A. Winder, Ryan Noha

Vos Group #85 — The Temptation in the Wilderness

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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

Discussing Jesus’ Mediation, the Lord’s Supper, and Flags in Worship

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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

Covenant Theology and Cultural Engagement in the Thought of Meredith G. Kline

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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

Vos Group #84 — John the Baptist’s Testimony of Jesus

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 18:00:11 -0400

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

Robert Boyle, Christianity, and Science

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Elect Exiles in 1 Peter 1:1–2 | Reformed Forum Update

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Machen’s Enduring Significance | Unfolding Redemption

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

William Jennings Bryan, the Round Table Club, and Religious Freedom

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Books

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

The Importance of Cornelius Van Til for Today

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

The Roots of Reformed Moral Theology

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

The Aaronic Blessing of Numbers 6

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Vos Group #83 — John’s Baptism of Jesus

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Christianity and Liberalism: The Church

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Exitus and Reditus in the Theology of Thomas Aquinas

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

The Communion of the Saints

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Christianity and Liberalism: Salvation

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

The Upside-Down Kingdom

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

Vos Group #82 — More on John the Baptist

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

The Living Hope Revealed in 1 Peter

Fri, 28 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

New Courses and Upcoming Events

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

The Character of Christ

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

Vos Group #81 — Revelation Connected with John the Baptist

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

John Knox and Pastoral Theology

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Reformed Theology

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

Standing against Tyranny: The Life and Legacy of Arthur Perkins

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Christianity and Liberalism: Christ

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Artificial Intelligence in Scholarship and Pastoral Ministry: An Exploration of Possibilities and Perils

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Van Til Group #11 — Sin and Its Curse

Fri, 26 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Presbyterians, Assemblies, and Semicolons

Fri, 19 May 2023 11:59:35 -0400

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

Paul the Disciple in Acts

Fri, 12 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Van Til Group #10 — Man’s Knowledge of the World

Fri, 05 May 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

Hermeneutics and Homiletics

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

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

Christianity and Liberalism: The Bible

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Evangelism and Apologetics on the Boardwalk

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Ecumenism and Church Discipline

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #80 — Aspects of the Nativity

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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

The New Testament Use of the Old Testament

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 05:00:03 -0400

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.

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

Preterism and 2 Peter 3

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Christianity and Liberalism: God and Man

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Christianity and Liberalism: Doctrine

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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

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

Van Til, Barth and Bridging Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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

Running the Race

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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

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

A Theology of Luke

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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.

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

A History of Presbyterianism in Wisconsin

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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.

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

A Theological Introduction to Neo-Calvinism

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Christianity and Liberalism: Introduction

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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.

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

Vos Group #79 — Aspects of Revelation at the Nativity

Fri, 13 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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

Introducing and Interpreting Karl Barth

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0400

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.

Chapters

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Highlights from 2022

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

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.

Donate Now

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

Vos Group #78 — Revelation Connected with the Nativity

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

We turn to pp. 305–306 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with the nativity. Throughout history, God interprets his supernatural works with his inspired Word. At this critical moment in history, the coming of Christ the redeemer, the Lord reveals himself further to his people.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
03:23 The New Testament and Critical Scholarship
12:20 The Incarnation and the History of Special Revelation
19:43 Dogmatic Considerations Regarding the Pre-Existent Messiah
37:46 Supernatural Acts in History
49:14 The Prophecy of Zacharias
54:48 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The History of Presbyterianism and Evangelicalism

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Donald Fortson and Kenneth Stewart speak about their book, Reformed and Evangelical across Four Centuries (Eerdmans), in which they tell the story of the Presbyterian church in the United States, beginning with its British foundations and extending to its present-day expression in multiple American Presbyterian denominations. This account emphasizes the role of the evangelical movement in shaping various Presbyterian bodies in America, especially in the twentieth century amid increasing departures from traditional Calvinism, historic orthodoxy, and a focus on biblical authority. Particular attention is also given to crucial elements of diversity in the Presbyterian story, with increasing numbers of African American, Latino/a, and Korean American Presbyterians—among others—in the twenty-first century. Overall, this book will be a bountiful resource to anyone curious about what it means to be Presbyterian in the multidimensional American context, as well as to anyone looking to understand this piece of the larger history of Christianity in the United States.

Dr. Kenneth J. Stewart is Professor Emeritus of Theological Studies at Covenant College. He is a specialist in the history of Christianity from the Reformation to the present with special interest in the development of the evangelical Protestant tradition. He has a growing interest in early Christianity and the transmission of doctrine from the early church forward to our time.

Dr. S. Donald Fortson III is Professor of Church History and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. Prior to RTS, he served as Assistant Professor of Ministry and the Director of the DMin Program at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Before his teaching career, Dr. Fortson was a pastor for nine years; he continues his pastoral ministry through teaching, preaching in local churches, and leadership in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

Dr. Alan Strange is Professor of Church History and Theological Librarian at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. He served Providence Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Glassboro, New Jersey, for over nine years before coming to Mid-America. He is an associate pastor at First Church (OPC) in South Holland, Illinois.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:15 The Idea for this Book
00:08:04 The Combination of Authors
00:14:07 Distinctive Features of the Book
00:26:44 The Relationship between Presbyterianism and Evangelicalism
00:35:43 The Missionary Impulse
00:41:38 Cultural Transformation
00:49:24 Modernism and Fundamentalism
00:57:05 Evangelical Marginalization and Church Union
01:08:40 Conclusion

Participants: Alan Strange, Camden Bucey, Kenneth J. Stewart, S. Donald Fortson III

1689 Federalism and the Old Covenant

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne, Jeremy Boothby, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey discuss 1689 Federalism and the old covenant. Continuing an ongoing conversation carried over several podcast episodes and YouTube videos, the panel interacts with views presented by Sam Renihan, Richard Barcellos, and Brandon Adams in “Two-Tier Typology and OT Salvation.” They responded specifically to Christ the Center episode 736 (John Owen, Jeremiah 31, and the Relationship between the Old and New Covenants) from last year, in which Camden Bucey spoke with Carlton Wynne and Will Wood at RTS Atlanta. That episode followed many of the covenant theological themes expressed by Jeremy Boothby in Christ the Center episode 693 (Typology and Covenant Membership in Hebrews).

After surveying views presented by Nehemiah Coxe, Paul Jewett, and David Kingdon, the conversation focuses on the relationship of old covenant types to the accomplishment of redemption wrought by Jesus Christ in the new covenant.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:10:18 Taxonomy of Reformed Baptist Views: Nehemiah Coxe
00:19:35 Paul King Jewett
00:20:51 David Kingdon
00:22:49 Sam Renihan
00:29:34 An Exclusively National and Carnal Significance of Covenant
00:39:36 Kinds of Obedience in the Old Covenant
00:49:01 Works and the Unregenerate
00:54:00 How Were Old Testament Believers Saved?
01:04:57 Symbolism, Typology, and Means of Grace
01:21:19 Two Religions
01:24:38 Hebrews 9–10
01:32:21 Christ Is the Substance of the Old Covenant
01:43:53 Christ’s Mediation in the Covenants
01:49:40 Conclusion

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

Gospel-Shaped Marriage

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Chad and Emily Van Dixhoorn speak about Gospel Shaped Marriage: Grace for Sinners to Love Like Saints (Crossway, 2022). While many books on marriage cover the same well-trod ground and even follow a common formula, this book is distinct. Drawing from Scripture and the writings of Puritan minister William Gouge, Augustine, and others, they provide a brief assessment of the biblical design for marriage and offer real-world advice on married life from a grace-filled perspective.

Chad Van Dixhoorn (PhD, Cambridge) is professor of church history at Westminster Theological Seminary and an OPC minister. He is the author of Confessing the Faith and God’s Ambassadors and editor of The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly (1643–1652).

Emily Van Dixhoorn (MAR, Westminster Theological Seminary) is a stay-at-home mom who leads and loves Bible studies and women’s retreats. Her first publication was a study guide to the book Confessing the Faith, a commentary on the Westminster Confession of Faith. Chad and Emily have five children.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
01:38 Introducing Gospel-Shaped Marriage
09:08 What to Look for in a Spouse
15:53 Growing with Your Spouse
19:36 Marriage and the Fourfold State
28:28 The Early Morning Orange Juice Incident
32:07 Gouge and Biblical Submission
42:33 Serving Others Together
52:37 Hopes for the Books
55:01 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Emily Van Dixhoorn

Christology, Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics, and Apologetics

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey speak with Lane Tipton on the heels of recording the sixth course in our Fellowship in Reformed Apologetics: “Christology and Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics.”

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
09:00 Van Til’s Christology and Hermeneutics
12:53 The Great Debate Today and Other Books on the Subject
20:58 Going Deeper than Evidences
30:36 Modern Christologies
36:41 Ridderbos, Paul: An Outline of His Theology
45:14 Christology and Hermeneutics Informing Apologetic Method
52:41 Conclusion

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

The Christ of the Consummation Is Revealed in the Gospels

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

We welcome Dr. O. Palmer Robertson to discuss his new book, Christ of the Consummation, Volume 1: The Testimony of the Four Gospels (P&R Publishing, 2022). In this first of three volumes, Dr. Robertson emphasizes the eyewitness character of the four men who attest to the supernatural in-breaking of the Christ. In the rich tapestry of the Gospels, we see Christ overcome the powers of Satan, gradually unveil his identity by words and works, call and commission disciples, die on the cross, be raised, and ascend to heaven. By each witnessing distinctive aspects of the coming of the King and the establishment of his kingdom, the gospel writers boldly describe a new phase in redemptive revelation.

O. Palmer Robertson (ThM, ThD, Union Theological Seminary, Virginia) is the founder of Consummation Ministries. Previously, he was director and principal of African Bible University in Uganda and taught at Reformed Theological Seminary, Westminster Theological Seminary, Covenant Theological Seminary, and Knox Theological Seminary. He has also served for many years as a teaching elder in various pastoral roles.

He is the author of several books, including The Christ of the Covenants, The Christ of the Prophets, and The Christ of Wisdom, and The Israel of God. In 2008, a Festschrift was published in his honor. The Hope Fulfilled: Essays in Honor of O. Palmer Robertson, which includes contributions by Bruce Waltke, Richard Gaffin, George W. Knight III, Simon J. Kistemaker, Robert L. Reymond, and Morton H. Smith.

Chapters

00:07 Introduction
02:09 Background to Christ of the Consummation
10:22 The Messianic Self-Consciousness
17:00 The Kingdom of God
28:47 A Global Perspective of the Kingdom
35:02 The Centrality of Christ’s Death
39:50 The Synoptic Gospels and Their Relation to John
43:08 The Gospels Are Not the End of the Story
52:00 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, O. Palmer Robertson

Melvin Grove Kyle, J. Gresham Machen, and the League of Evangelical Students

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Jeff McDonald discusses Melvin Grove Kyle and the growth of the League of Evangelical Students (LES) founded by J. Gresham Machen and Princeton Seminary students in 1925. Both Kyle and Machen were scholarly leaders in the LES and served on the organization’s board together. In his paper on the subject, Dr. McDonald establishes the importance of Melvin Grove Kyle as a leading evangelical scholar and biblical archaeologist. He also explains the origins and growth of the LES and how various Presbyterians influenced the organization and sought to advance a broader evangelical Protestant intellectual life in the difficult period of the 1920s and 1930s.

Dr. McDonald is pastor of Avery Presbyterian Church in Bellevue, Nebraska and the author of John Gerstner and the Renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed Evangelicalism in Modern America (Wipf & Stock, 2017).

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
09:39 Historical Context
11:34 United Presbyterians and Xenia Seminary
20:15 Evangelical Cooperation
26:52 Evangelicals and the Life of the Mind
32:26 Pan-Presbyterian Dissent from Theological Liberalism
39:50 The Enduring Legacy of Melvin Grove Kyle
47:22 Machen’s Christianity and Liberalism
51:09 Additional Projects
52:55 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff McDonald

Van Til Group #9 — God’s Knowledge of the World and Man’s Knowledge of God

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey turn to pp. 54–58 of Cornelius Van Til’s The Defense of the Faith to discuss the Christian theory of knowledge. In this section, Van Til speaks of God’s knowledge of the world and then man’s knowledge of God.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:28 God’s Knowledge of the World
07:41 The Plan of God to Create the World
13:13 The Pantheistic Switch
24:31 God’s Free Knowledge Does Not Imply an Eternal Creation
35:32 Refusing to Concede to Rationalism
43:10 Man’s Knowledge of God
49:46 Devotional Thoughts on the Creator-Creature Distinction
56:45 Conclusion

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

Perichoresis, Encoronation, and Ascension: Christology in (the) Light of Endoxation

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we include Lane Tipton’s address from our 2022 Theology Conference. Dr. Tipton’s address was titled, “Perichoresis, Encoronation, and Ascension: Christology in (the) Light of Endoxation.”

At this year’s conference we considered, “The Covenantal Tale of Creation, Christ, and Consummation: The Life and Work of M. G. Kline.” This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Meredith G. Kline. We will take the opportunity to consider his unique contributions by exploring several covenantal and eschatological themes he identified throughout the Old and New Testaments.

Dr. Tipton serves as pastor of Trinity Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Easton, Pennsylvania and fellow of biblical and systematic theology at Reformed Forum. He is the author of Foundations of Covenant Theology and has taught several courses available through Reformed Academy.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:07:26 Perichoresis, Encoronation, and Ascension
01:05:54 Questions and Answers
01:24:54 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Biblical Theology of Vos-Kline-Gaffin: Meredith G. Kline on the Book of Revelation, Christ and His Spirit-Filled Church, and Missions

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we bring you the third plenary address from our 2022 Theology Conference wherein we considered, “The Covenantal Tale of Creation, Christ, and Consummation: The Life and Work of M. G. Kline.” This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Meredith G. Kline. We will take the opportunity to consider his unique contributions by exploring several covenantal and eschatological themes he identified throughout the Old and New Testaments.

Danny Olinger is General Secretary for the Committee on Christian Education for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. He is the author of Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theologian, Confessional Presbyterian.

Chapters

0:00:00 Introduction
0:08:01 The Biblical Theology of Vos-Kline-Gaffin
1:00:45 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

A Tale of Two Trees

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Scott Wright speaks about the continued relevance of Meredith G. Kline. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Meredith G. Kline. We recently hosted our annual theology conference and took the opportunity to consider his unique contributions by exploring several covenantal and eschatological themes he identified throughout the Old and New Testaments. Dr. Wright’s address is titled, “A Tale of Two Trees.”

Rev. Dr. Scott Wright is senior pastor of Redeemer Church (PCA) in Hudson, Ohio. He received his B.A. in Economics from Princeton University (1982), his M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (1991), and his Ph.D. in Systematic Theology from Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia). He is the author of Regeneration and Redemptive-History (Reformed Forum, forthcoming).

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:10:51 Volunteer Opportunities
00:18:46 Introduction to Dr. Scott Wright
00:25:30 A Tale of Two Trees
01:13:04 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Ryan Noha, Scott R. Wright

The Relevance of Meredith G. Kline

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 05:00:00 -0400

John R. Muether speaks about the continued relevance of Meredith G. Kline. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of Meredith G. Kline. We recently hosted our annual theology conference and took the opportunity to consider his unique contributions by exploring several covenantal and eschatological themes he identified throughout the Old and New Testaments. A recording of Mr. Muether’s address was the first main session at the conference.

John R. Muether is Professor of Church History and Dean of Libraries at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. He is the author or co-author of many books, including Cornelius Van Til: Reformed Apologist and Churchman and Seeking a Better Country: 300 Years of American Presbyterianism.

Chapters

Participants: Camden Bucey, John Muether

Vos Group #77 — The Nature of New Testament Revelation

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 05:00:00 -0400

We turn to pp. 302–304 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss the nature of New Testament revelation. Vos explains how the new dispensation in Christ is the final dispensation of revelation. Referencing Hebrews 1:1–2, we discuss how this revelation is organic, progressive, and climactic in Christ.

Chapters

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Henrietta Mears: Mother of Modern Evangelicalism

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Arlin Migliazzo speaks about Henrietta Mears, who was arguably the single most influential woman in the shaping of modern evangelicalism. Key figures in the early modern evangelical movement like Bill Bright, Harold John Ockenga, and Jim Rayburn frequently cited her teachings as a formative part of their ministry. Graham himself stated that Mears was the most important female influence in his life other than his mother or wife.

Dr. Migliazzo is the author of Henrietta Mears: Mother of Modern Evangelicalism (Eerdmans, 2020). He is Professor Emeritus of History at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington. His many publications include books, articles, and essays on ethnic studies, the Pacific Northwest, colonial South Carolina, church-related higher education, the history of evangelicalism, and comparative democratic development.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
04:39 Mears’s Biography
14:46 Mears’s Constitution
16:27 Sunday School at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood
21:32 The Attraction of Mears
27:07 The Available Historical Sources
29:51 Gospel Light
35:13 Forest Home
40:15 Mears’s Relationship with Other Evangelical Figures
47:04 Lessons from the Life of Henrietta Mears
57:46 Conclusion

Participants: Arlin Migliazzo, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Samuel Miller on Presbyterian History, Government, and Worship

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Harrison Perkins speaks about Samuel Miller’s views on Presbyterianism. Dr. Perkins has edited a new edition of Miller’s Presbyterianism: Its History, Doctrine, Government, and Worship, which has been published by Log College Press.

Samuel Miller, the first professor of Ecclesiastical History and Church Government at Princeton Theological Seminary and a prolific author, published this introduction and defense of Presbyterianism in 1835. Originally titled Presbyterianism: The Truly Primitive and Apostolical Constitution of the Church of Christ, Miller covers the basics of Presbyterian belief and practice, grounding his material in the Scriptures primarily and church history secondarily.

Dr. Harrison Perkins is Stated Supply at Oakland Hills Community Church in Farmington Hills, Michigan
Visiting lecturer in systematic theology at Edinburgh Theological Seminary and online instructor at Westminster Theological Seminary. He is the author of Catholicity and the Covenant of Works: James Ussher and the Reformed Tradition, of which he spoke on Christ the Center episode 677.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:20 Update and Current Projects
00:09:35 Editing Samuel Miller’s Presbyterianism
00:17:46 Samuel Miller’s Biography
00:20:37 The History of Presbyterianism
00:33:51 Presbyterian Doctrine
00:40:17 The Practicality of Presbyterian Principles
00:45:47 Presbyterian Government
00:49:23 Presbyterian Worship
01:05:23 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Harrison Perkins, Jim Cassidy

The Person of Christ and the Deeper Protestant Conception

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton speaks about his chapter, “The Person of Christ: The Deeper Protestant Conception and the Church’s Heavenly-Mindedness” in Theology for Ministry: How Doctrine Affects Pastoral Life and Practice (P&R Publishing), a festschrift for Sinclair Ferguson.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Update on Reformed Academy
13:56 Writing in a Festschrift for Sinclair Ferguson
20:49 The Person of Christ
28:32 Basic Lessons in Christology
34:35 Immutability and the Hypostatic Union
40:56 Theological and Christological Errors
50:12 The Deeper Modernist, Catholic, and Protestant Conceptions
55:54 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Catechetical Preaching

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Drs. Alan Strange and Cornelis Venema speak about the practice of catechetical preaching from a practical as well as historical perspective. While the practice is more common within the Dutch Reformed tradition, Dr. Strange also provides a case for Presbyterians to engage in preaching using the Westminster Standards as aids. Regardless of where you may land on the particular role of secondary standards in organizing the preaching of the Word, this conversation is useful and instructive for considering how the church may best instruct her members.

Dr. Cornelis Venema is Professor of Doctrinal Studies and President of Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. Dr. Alan Strange is Professor of Church History, Registrar, and Theological Librarian of Mid-America Reformed Seminary.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:02 Homiletics and Catechetical Instruction
00:15:34 Preaching from the Catechism
00:22:30 Preaching through the Westminster Larger Catechism
00:42:19 Reading the Catechisms during the Worship Service
00:51:09 Keeping Catechetical Preaching Fresh
01:05:09 Conclusion

Participants: Alan Strange, Camden Bucey, Cornelis Venema

Bavinck and a Christian View of Science

Fri, 26 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In 1904, the same year Herman Bavinck published Christian Worldview, Bavinck published a book titled Christelijke wetenschap (Christian Science) in which he commented on a movement to “build science . . . on the foundation of the Christian faith.” Cory Brock joins us to speak about this book and Bavinck’s views on the subject.

Dr. Cory C. Brock is assistant minister of St. Columba’s Free Church and part-time lecturer in theology at Edinburgh Theological Seminary. He is the author of Orthodox yet Modern: Herman Bavinck’s Use of Friedrich Schleiermacher and co-author of Neo-Calvinism: A Theological Introduction.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
06:22 A Different Type of “Christian Science”
15:38 The Antithesis and Scientific Presuppositions
19:42 The Trinity and Creation
23:58 The Image of God and the Hope of Christian Science
31:12 Theology as Queen and Servant of Science
38:40 Science in the New Heavens and New Earth
43:14 Sin, Knowledge, and the Christian University
49:01 Non-Christians and Science
59:03 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cory Brock, Ryan Noha

A God-Centered Approach to History

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Vern Poythress speaks about the study of history and historiography from a Christian perspective. In his book, Redeeming Our Thinking about History: A God-Centered Approach (Crossway), Dr. Poythress emphasizes God’s own command to remember his works and share them with the next generation. He explores providentialism, divine purpose, and the four basic phases of biblical history: creation, fall, redemption, and consummation.

Dr. Vern Poythress, Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Biblical Interpretation, and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Glenside, Pennsylvania, where he has taught for four decades. In addition to earning six academic degrees, he is the author of numerous books and articles on biblical interpretation, language, and science.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:44 Focusing on History
00:14:01 Presuppositions of Historical Methodology
00:17:06 Defining and Experiencing History
00:22:07 Three Important Aspects of History
00:32:29 Divine Inscrutability and Divine Revelation
00:34:36 Common Grace and History
00:40:12 Reductionistic Approaches to History
00:48:14 The Academic Pursuit of History
00:59:59 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Vern Poythress

Vos Group #76 — The Structure of New Testament Revelation

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pp. 299–301 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. Vos discusses three ways in which the structure of New Testament Revelation can be determined from within Scripture itself.

1. From indications in the Old Testament
2. From the teachings of Jesus
3. From the teachings of Paul and the other apostles

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:07:43 The Structure of New Testament Revelation
00:15:11 Organic vs. Artificial
00:21:32 Old Testament Indications of the Nature of Revelation
00:27:04 The Old and the New
00:38:23 The Teaching of Jesus
00:43:00 Abrogation and Perfection
00:52:03 Hebrews 10:19-24 and the Era of Religious Fellowship
00:56:58 Paul and the Teaching of the Other Apostles
01:01:21 Hebrews 1:1-2
01:06:06 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Extra Calvinisticum from Zwingli to Early Orthodoxy

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Where is Christ’s body now?

In short, that is the question behind our conversation today with K. J. Drake, the author of The Flesh of the Word: The extra Calvinisticum from Zwingli to Early Orthodoxy (Oxford University Press, 2021). In this book, Drake seeks to broaden the study of the extra Calvinisticum by investigating how the doctrine arose within sixteenth-century Reformed theology as well as how its form and function developed over time due to the changing polemical and theological contexts from Zwingli to the period of early Reformed orthodoxy.

K. J. Drake is Academic Dean and Assistant Professor of Historical Theology at Indianapolis Theological Seminary. He received his BA in History, Classics, Medieval and Renaissance Studies, and Latin from the University of Nebraska. He attended Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis where he received his M.Div.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:05:41 The Question of Immanuel
00:07:43 Defining the Extra Calvinisticum
00:10:33 Development of Zwingli’s Views
00:15:40 Fault Lines between Lutheran and Reformed
00:18:35 Barth and the Extra Calvinisticum
00:20:47 Calvin vs. the Calvinists
00:24:38 Zwingli’s Christology
00:32:22 Development in Zwingli’s Views
00:35:11 The Consensus Tigurinus
00:39:43 Vermigli and the Communicatio Idiomatum
00:48:47 Knox and Cranmer
00:51:34 Antoine de la Roche Chandieu
00:54:50 Other Doctrines that Are Impacted
01:04:58 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa, K. J. Drake

Van Til Group #8 — The Christian Philosophy of Knowledge

Fri, 29 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey turn to pp. 48–54 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 relationship between a theory of reality and the theory of knowledge and how for orthodox Christians, the absolute God of Scripture is identical with his knowledge while finite creatures are fundamentally dependent upon him.

We also announce the arrival of Lane Tipton’s book, The Trinitarian Theology of Cornelius Van Til.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:16 New Book: The Trinitarian Theology of Cornelius Van Til
00:12:28 Reviewing Chapters 1–2 of the Book
00:23:38 A Christian Theory of Being
00:35:30 The Bible and Christian Experience
00:37:50 Ontology and Epistemology from the Garden of Eden
00:42:59 Epistemological Authority
00:48:35 Satan’s Tactic in Temptation
00:55:16 God’s Knowledge and Being are Coterminous
01:00:52 Pantheism
01:06:04 Consequences of Saying that God’s Knowledge Changes
01:15:44 Biblical Examples of God’s Knowledge in Relation to Creation
01:21:00 Conclusion

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

Research Methods and Tools

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Benjamin Gladd shares his methods and favorite tools for facilitating research and eventual publication of his writing.

Dr. 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.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:07:02 Reading and Writing
00:10:08 Reading and Taking Smart Notes
00:19:16 Working with PDFs
00:23:43 Citation Managers
00:26:15 Writing for Teaching
00:31:11 Mind Mapping
00:36:07 The Effects of Technology
00:38:19 Cross References
00:40:50 From Bible Study to Writing Output
00:44:11 Plagiarism and Derivative Thought
00:55:44 The Cumulative Benefit of Consistent Study
00:59:39 The Pastor Is Called to Study
01:01:25 Going Deeper Independently
01:11:23 Updates on RTS Jackson and Dr. Gladd’s Books
01:13:08 Conclusion

Participants: Benjamin Gladd, Camden Bucey

The Usefulness of the Doctrine of Scripture

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Carlton Wynne speaks about his chapter, “Scripture: Foundational for Life and Ministry,” which is published in Theology for Ministry: How Doctrine Affects Pastoral Life and Practice. This book is a festschrift for Sinclair Ferguson, edited by William R. Edwards, John C. A. Ferguson, and Chad Van Dixhoorn, and published by P&R Publishing.

Dr. Wynne discusses the significance of the doctrine of inspiration as well as the necessity, sufficiency, and authority of Scripture. He then connects these essential doctrines to their practicality and usefulness for daily life and particularly, pastoral ministry. By understanding the doctrine of Scripture and especially its redemptive-historical character, we come to a greater appreciation of God’s enduring love and care for his covenant people.

Carlton Wynne is Associate Pastor at Westminster PCA in Atlanta and Adjunct Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary Atlanta.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:06:03 Carlton’s Introduction to Sinclair Ferguson
00:15:21 Theology for Life
00:20:05 The Inspiration of Scripture
00:37:42 The Accommodation of Scripture
00:40:59 The Usefulness of Doctrine for Pastoral Ministry
00:49:32 The Redemptive-Historical Character of Scripture
01:02:38 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne

Zephaniah’s Protology in Eschatology

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Mark Winder previews his upcoming course on Zephaniah wherein he will discuss the prophecy in its context, and in doing so examine how the prophet utilizes protological themes to construct an eschatological picture pointing to the great Day of the Lord. We will begin with an introduction to covenant themes and establish the veracity of the theological assumptions and hermeneutical method employed in approaching Zephaniah.

Dr. Winder will be teaching an in-person course at the Reformed Forum headquarters in Libertyville, Illinois, August 12–13, 2022.

Learn More

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
06:12 An Upcoming Course on Zephaniah
22:25 The Structure of the Course
33:16 Protology and Eschatology
44:29 The Expectation of the Day of the Lord
50:45 Covenant Restoration
57:56 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Mark A. Winder, Ryan Noha

Heavenly Mindedness

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

We discuss Geerhardus Vos’s sermon, “Heavenly Mindedness” from his collection Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary. In this sermon, Vos directs the Christian to consider the heavenly realities, where Christ is, as the proper focus and posture for the Christian throughout this present earthly pilgrimage.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
03:45 Historical Context of the Sermon
08:44 Key Passages on Faith
12:54 A Biblical Theology of Faith
16:11 Faith and the Foundation of the Christian Life
19:58 Vos’s Exegesis and the History of Redemption
22:06 Faith and the Vitality of the Christian Life
23:44 Supernaturalism and History
26:45 Themes Picked up by Kline
30:04 Abraham’s Pilgrimage
36:27 The Remedy for the Ills of the Modern Life
38:40 Heavenly-Mindedness vs Mysticism
48:38 The Means of Grace
57:59 Conclusion

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

The Perils of Naming a Denomination

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Brad Isbell (@ChortlesWeakly) briefly steps away from the General Assembly floor, Twitter, and Presbycast to jump on another podcast mic to speak with Camden Bucey about the PCA General Assembly and the storied histories of naming the OPC and the PCA.

Mr. Isbell is a ruling elder at Covenant PCA in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. Along with @Wresbyterian, he hosts Presbycast. He recently wrote, “What’s in a Denominational Name?” for the Nicotine Theological Journal. The article has also been published at The Aquila Report.

Chapters

00:00 General Assemblies Review
09:43 More in the PCA
15:18 PCA and OPC 50th Anniversaries
19:36 Denominational Names
32:06 Ardor and Order in the National Presbyterian Church
46:14 Presbyterian Collegiality
48:52 Church Planting Old School Ordinary Means of Grace Churches
53:11 Conclusion

Participants: Brad Isbell, Camden Bucey

Van Mastricht: The Works of God and the Fall of Man

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In the third volume of this new translation of Petrus Van Mastricht’s Theoretical-Practical Theology,

Mastricht begins with a discussion of the decrees of God and how they establish His eternal purpose for everything. He then shows how the decrees are carried out in creation and in God’s continual providence. The volume concludes with Mastricht’s treatment of the apostacy of Adam from his original estate and the devastating effects of sin that followed. This is an important volume for learning how God governs all things, even the rebellious actions of those good things He created.

Jeff Waddington, Dan Ragusa, and Camden Bucey speak about several of the unique positions Van Mastricht held, including his somewhat mediating view between infra- and supralapsarianism, his argument against Copernicanism, his view of the third heaven, and his view of angelic and demonic activity.

Chapters

0:00:00 Introduction
0:04:35 Van Mastricht’s Theoretical-Practical
0:17:14 Infra- and Supralapsarianism
0:26:45 Copernicanism
0:36:31 The Third Heaven
0:42:59 The Covenant of Nature
0:54:44 Right Reason
1:00:40 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa, Jeff Waddington

The Ecclesiastical and Theological Contributions of Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we speak about the ecclesiastical and theological contributions of Dr. Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Dr. Gaffin having been elected the chairman of the OPC’s Committee on Foreign Missions. Crossway has also published his latest book, In the Fullness of Time, a revision of his lecture notes from his course, Acts and Paul.

Dr. Gaffin’s history is inextricably linked with two institutions closely identified with J. Gresham Machen: Westminster Theological Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Taking this opportunity to reflect on the life and works of Dr. Gaffin, the panel comments on his unique contributions.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:08:41 Dr. Gaffin’s 50+ Years of Service to OPC Foreign Missions
00:14:21 Meeting Dr. Gaffin
00:27:54 Dr. Gaffin’s Bibliography
00:32:13 Gaffin and Vos
00:37:11 Resurrection and Eschatology: A Festschrift for Dr. Gaffin
00:43:12 Gaffin’s Theological Contributions
00:57:31 1 Corinthians 15:45 and 2 Corinthians 3:17–18
01:00:35 Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. and Charlie Dennison
01:03:09 Conclusion

Order the Book

While supplies last, we’re running a big sale on copies of Dr. Gaffin’s book. For the best deal, get a bundle of In the Fullness of Time, Geerhardus Vos by Danny E. Olinger, and Foundations of Covenant Theology by Lane G. Tipton. We’re offering this bundle for $49.99. The combined retail price is $91.97. That’s a savings of more than 45%. You may also save more than 40% on individual copies.

Select Bibliography

Gaffin, Jr., Richard B. By Faith Not By Sight. Bletchley, Milton Keynes, UK: Paternoster Press, 2006.

———. God’s Word in Servant-Form. Reformed Academic Press, n.d.

———. “‘Life-Giving Spirit’: Probing the Center of Paul’s Pneumatology.” JETS 41 (1998): 573–89.

———. “Old Amsterdam and Inerrancy.” Westminster Theological Journal 44, no. 2 (Fall 1982): p 250-289.

———. Perspectives on Pentecost. P & R Publishing, 1979.

———. Resurrection and Redemption: A Study in Paul’s Soteriology. 2nd ed. Phillipsburg, NJ: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 1987.

———. “The Place and Importance of Introduction to the New Testament.” In Studying the New Testament Today, 143–51. Presbyterian and Reformed Pub. Co, n.d.

———. “The Redemptive-Historical View.” In Biblical Hermeneutics: Five Views, edited by Stanley E Porter and Beth M Stovell. Downers Grove, Ill.: IVP Academic, 2012.

———. “The Usefulness of the Cross,” The Westminster Theological Journal, Vol. 41 No. 2 Spring 1979, pp. 228–246. (We discussed this article on Christ the Center, episode 585)

Tipton, Lane G., and Jeffrey C. Waddington. Resurrection and Eschatology: Theology in Service of the Church: Essays in Honor of Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

Vos Group #75 — The Eschatological View of the Prophets

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey turn to pages 289–296 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. In this section, Vos introduces several significant interpretive practices which are critical for a proper understanding of the eschatology of the prophets. These are the principles of (1) finality and consummation, (2) prophetic idiom, and (3) the coming of the Messiah as the “gift of God.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:48 Finality and Consummation
13:53 The Forshortening of Prophetic Insight
22:54 Prophetic Idiom and the Future Glory of Isaiah
42:58 The Coming Messiah as the Gift of God
51:06 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Two Ages in Scripture

Fri, 27 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Adam York joins Camden Bucey to speak about the two age construction found throughout Scripture and especially in the Pauline epistles. Scripture frequently speaks of “this age” and “the age to come.” These categories have a significant effect upon how Christians should understand their place in the world.

Jesus, the second Adam, has entered into “the age to come.” Through union with Christ, believers not only experience the victory in anticipation of Christ’s second coming, they also are already raised with him and seated with him in heavenly places (Eph. 2:6).

Adam York is pastor of Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois.

Upcoming Livestream

Donate now to receive an invitation to our private chat server. You won’t want to miss our Christ the Center recording scheduled for June 2, 2022 at 2:30 pm (EDT).

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:22 Preaching from Ephesians
00:05:12 Encountering the Two-Age Construction
00:11:17 Jesus Speaks of the Two Ages
00:19:41 The Two Ages and Christian Identity
00:30:53 Living in the Overlap of the Ages
00:45:18 The Coming Ages in Ephesians 2:7
00:56:16 The Practicality of the Two-Age Construction
01:04:17 Conclusion

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey

Shall the Fundamentalists Win? 100 Years Later

Fri, 20 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

On May 21, 1922, Harry Emerson Fosdick preached a sermon titled “Shall the Fundamentalists Win?” that helped spark the modernist-fundamentalist controversy.

Fosdick was a Baptist minister serving as an associate at First Presbyterian Church in New York and a faculty member at Union Theological Seminary. He was well-known and had published several popular religious books. Ned B. Stonehouse remarked, “the fact that a minister not even subject to the authority of Presbytery and General Assembly should have used a Presbyterian pulpit to make what was widely regarded as an attack upon the constitution disclosed a situation bordering on lawlessness” (Stonehouse, J. Gresham Machen: A Biographical Memoir, 302).

Dr. Darryl G. Hart joins Camden Bucey to speak about this infamous sermon and a new course on Machen that Dr. Hart recorded last week for Reformed Academy.

Chapters

0:00:00 Introduction
0:01:03 Dr. Hart’s Forthcoming Course on Machen
0:09:54 Harry Emerson Fosdick in Context
0:20:49 Presbyterians and Broad Ecumenism
0:23:53 New York and Philadelphia in Presbyterian History
0:28:25 A Baptist in a Presbyterian Pulpit
0:33:19 Fosdick Preaching from Acts 5:38–39
0:38:40 Fosdick and Modernity
0:45:07 The Soft Middle
0:50:02 Machen, Orthodoxy, and Modernity
0:56:17 The Spirits of Fosdick and Machen Today
1:08:06 Conclusion

Download the Sermon PDF

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart

The Necessity of Christ’s Obedience for Our Salvation

Fri, 13 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

We welcome Dr. Brandon Crowe to the program to discuss the obedience of Christ and the salvation of his people. In his latest book, Why Did Jesus Live a Perfect Life?: The Necessity of Christ’s Obedience for Our Salvation, Dr. Crowe sets out to answer the basic but all-important question: Is perfect obedience necessary for salvation?

Listen as we explore the covenant of works, the atonement, the nature of Christ’s obedience, his resurrection, and the doctrine of justification.

Brandon D. Crowe (PhD, University of Edinburgh) is professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary and author of The Last Adam and The Hope of Israel.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:04 Thinking about Righteousness and Obedience
06:47 Changes in Theological Disciplines
13:21 Perfect Obedience Is Necessary for Salvation
20:30 Death Reigned from Adam to Moses
26:45 The New Testament and the Law of Moses
34:02 Christ’s Obedience and Our Faith
40:18 Christ’s Active and Passive Obedience
43:53 Christ’s Obedience as High Priest
47:11 Christ’s Resurrection
50:58 The Author’s Hopes for Readers of the Book
54:55 Conclusion

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey

The Practical Import of Ecclesiology

Fri, 06 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey discuss ecclesiology (the doctrine of the church) and the significant ways it informs our daily lives. Dr. Cassidy is studying R. B. Kuiper’s The Glorious Body of Christ with his congregation, and we take the opportunity to speak about the nature and limits of church authority, the distinction between the church as organism and the church as organization, and the church’s relation to the government and culture.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
05:21 R. B. Kuiper and the Doctrine of the Church
10:09 Ecclesiology and Other Disciplines
17:38 The Spirituality of the Church
33:33 The Exercise of Church Authority
39:20 Church Authority and the Regulative Principle of Worship
47:53 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Van Til Group #7 — Creation, Sin, and its Curse

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey open Cornelius Van Til’s book, The Defense of the Faith to pages 43–47. Van Til addresses the unity and diversity within creation before covering the fall into sin and the curse.

Throughout this chapter, Van Til reminds his readers of the categorical difference between God and creation while maintaining creation’s dependence upon God for its very existence. The answers to these fundamental questions distinguish orthodox Christianity from all other philosophies and religions.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:52 Thoughts on Learning Van Til
00:12:32 Temporal Unity and Plurality
00:24:30 Non-Being
00:36:56 Reformed vs. Roman Catholic Conceptions of Nature and Sin
00:49:58 The Mystery of the Fall into Sin
00:56:49 Created Laws and Facts
01:03:42 Van Til the Evangelist and Van Til the Theologian
01:06:33 Conclusion

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

A History of Presbyterian Publications

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Dominic Aquila joins Camden Bucey to speak about the history of Presbyterian publications. While they focus primarily on the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, Dr. Aquila connects this storied history to the recent past and the dramatic shifts in communication that have come about with the introduction of the Internet and technologies such as social media.

Dominic Aquila is the President of New Geneva Seminary, and editor of The Aquila Report. He has pastored churches in Virginia, California, Colorado, and Florida. Dr. Aquila has served on a number of Committees in the Presbyterian Church in America, including Mission to the World (MTW) and the Standing Judicial Commission.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:06 New Geneva Seminary in Egypt
09:01 The Aquila Report
14:27 Presbyterian Publications Past and Present
20:06 Christianity Today and The Presbyterian Guardian
25:03 The Christian Century et al
31:36 Princeton Seminary’s Publications
33:52 Technological and Industrial Changes
39:29 Other Publications of the 19th and 20th Centuries
52:35 Considering What Has Been Gained and Lost
55:42 Conclusion

Natural Theology and the Effects of Sin

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton, Ryan Noha, Rob McKenzie, and Camden Bucey pull up to a table for the first podcast recording at the new Reformed Forum headquarters in Libertyville, Illinois. We discuss the new facility, the new course we recording in our Fellowship in Reformed Apologetics, and the current interest in natural theology.

For those watching the video, one of the cameras ceased recording after a few minutes. This led to a lack of visual coverage for Ryan and Lane and cinematography reminiscent of that capturing Dr. Claw in Inspector Gadget.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:39 The New Reformed Forum HQ
13:46 Van Til’s Doctrine of Natural Theology
24:22 The Current Interest in Natural Theology
31:53 Natural Arguments in the Public Square
36:55 Natural Theology and the Doctrine of Sin
41:41 The Need for a Renewed Calvinist Militancy
48:31 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton, Rob McKenzie, Ryan Noha

Van Til, Aquinas, and the Natural Knowledge of God

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton speaks about his new course on Van Til’s doctrine of revelation, which is the third course in our Fellowship in Reformed Apologetics. In this course, Dr. Tipton covers:

The implications of the self-contained and immutable Trinity for a doctrine of revelation in the work of creation and in the special act of providence in covenantal condescension
The distinctive character of natural revelation and the natural knowledge of God in Reformed theology, set in comparison and contrast to the views of Thomas Aquinas and Karl Barth
The relation between natural and supernatural, or general and special revelation, giving special attention to Van Til’s key essay, “Nature and Scripture”
The Vosian doctrine of eschatology as it bears upon the distinction and the relation of God’s revelation in nature and God’s revelation in covenant (and in Scripture).

The course gives sustained attention to a close reading of central primary sources in Van Til’s corpus that bear on his doctrine of the revelation of the self-contained Trinity in nature and in covenant.

Before sharing one of the lectures from the course, Lane and Camden compare and contrast Cornelius Van Til’s theology with that of Thomas Aquinas on the natural knowledge of God as well as man’s religious fellowship with God.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:23 The Fellowship in Reformed Apologetics
00:17:51 Van Til and Thomas Aquinas on the Natural Knowledge of God
00:23:33 Differences between Roman Catholic and Reformed Natural Theology
00:31:15 Thomas Aquinas on the Natural Knowledge of God
00:38:10 Aquinas on Ontological Re-Proportioning to Participate in the Essence of God
00:44:35 Preview Lecture on Thomas Aquinas and the Natural Knowledge of God
01:11:24 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Text of Kuyper’s Stone Lectures on Calvinism

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

At the invitation of B. B. Warfield (and the suggestion of Geerhardus Vos), Abraham Kuyper delivered the Stone Lectures at Princeton Theological Seminary in 1898. In these lectures, he presented his vision for an international Calvinism. And while many people may be familiar with Kuyper’s famous work, few may know the complicated history of these lectures being written, translated into English, delivered in Princeton, and eventually published.

In this episode, Dr. George Harinck shares with us his thorough research as he speaks about the history of the text of Kuyper’s lectures. Dr. Harinck is the author of numerous books and articles, including the focus of this conversation, “Lost in Translation: The First Text of the Stone Lectures” in Calvinism for a Secular Age: A Twenty-First-Century Reading of Abraham Kuyper’s Stone Lectures edited by Jessica R. Joustra and Robert J. Joustra and published by IVP Academic.

Dr. Harinck is the Director of The Neo-Calvinism Research Institute and Professor of History at the Free University in Amsterdam.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
04:28 Being Introduced to Kuyper and His Stone Lectures
07:17 Kuyper’s Legacy in the Netherlands
09:19 The Stone Lectures
14:42 Kuyper and Geerhardus Vos
17:48 Kuyper and the English Language
29:51 The Modern Text of the Stone Lectures
39:44 Calvinism for a Secular Age
47:26 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa, George Harinck

Questions and Answers

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to the mailbag today to answer questions from listeners. We discuss the “organic” unity of the Scriptures, Van Til’s understanding of the phenomenal world, why the covenant of works and the covenant of grace point to something better than Eden, and vital and formal aspects of covenant membership.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:57 Update on Reformed Academy
00:15:38 The “Organic” Unity of the Scriptures
00:25:04 Van Til and the Phenomenal World
00:41:18 Covenant Advancement in the Garden
00:48:16 Vital and Formal Aspects of the Covenant
01:08:42 Conclusion

Ruling Elders and General Assembly

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Podcast worlds collide! Jim and Camden welcome Brad Isbell, perhaps even better known as @ChortlesWeakly, to the program to discuss ruling elders and general assemblies within Presbyterianism.

Along with @wresbyterian, Mr. Isbell hosts Presbycast, a delightful mix of high Presbyterian polity and low brow culture. Listen as we discuss the organization and operation of the PCA General Assembly, comparisons with other Presbyterian and Reformed bodies—most specifically the OPC, and what it means to take seriously the office of ruling elder.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
05:18 Ruling Elders at the PCA General Assembly
11:09 The Presbyterian Constitutional Covenant Union
23:09 Denominational Differences
35:56 Why Ruling Elders Tend to Be More Conservative
38:10 Taking Seriously the Office of Ruling Elder
48:09 The 2022 PCA General Assembly in Birmingham
54:06 Being a Presbyterian
57:34 Conclusion

Machen and the Era of Tragedy

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0400

In 1992, Charles G. Dennison published three articles in the Mid-America Journal of Theology. These were based upon a series he delivered at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. Dennison identifies three eras between 1936 and 1962—tragedy, hope, and ambivalence. The era of tragedy is focused on the figure of J. Gresham Machen. Cornelius Van Til and Ned B. Stonehouse represent the eras of hope and ambivalence, respectively.

In this episode, Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey discuss this first article in the series while considering broader questions about the identity of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and its relation to other Reformed and Presbyterian churches and evangelicalism. Rev. Olinger serves as General Secretary of the Committee on Christian Education for the OPC.

Chapters

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

Vos Group #74 — Social Sin

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 13:48:20 -0400

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey turn to pages 269–286 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, to consider social sin in the time of the prophets.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
05:41 Join Our Private Chat Server
10:07 The Corruption of Ritual Worship
11:53 Social Sin
20:34 The Problem of the City
25:54 Social Justice and Humanitarianism
33:48 Social Sin and Theonomy
41:47 Transformation through the New Covenant
50:27 The Old and New Covenants
55:48 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Catechesis, Education, and the Church

Fri, 25 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey speak about Jim’s latest course, The Westminster Shorter Catechism (Questions 39–107), which is available for free through Reformed Academy.

In speaking about the new series, Jim and Camden also share several encouraging updates about Reformed Forum as well as their thoughts about parachurch ministries, denominational seminaries, and the future of ministerial training.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:50 New Course on the Westminster Shorter Catechism
00:09:15 Updates about Reformed Forum
00:16:36 Parachurch Ministries and Presbyterian History
00:29:59 Denominational Seminaries
00:40:24 Ministerial Training Models
00:54:55 Catechism Lesson: The Seventh Commandment
01:05:01 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Value of Studying B. B. Warfield

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey discuss the value of reading and studying the works of B. B. Warfield. Jeff has written an article in our forthcoming newsletter wherein he identifies Warfield as a theological “renaissance man.” With significant works covering topics from New Testament textual criticism to apologetics and the doctrine of salvation, the “lion of Princeton” remains a towering figure in the Reformed and Presbyterian tradition.

Jeffrey C. Waddington, “Benjamin B. Warfield: A Renaissance Theologian”Download

00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:06 Warfield the Renaissance Man
00:07:58 Warfield’s Biography
00:28:19 Measuring Theological Influence
00:35:03 Researching Warfield
00:39:01 The Influence of Old Princeton
00:48:25 Charles Briggs and the Presbyterian Milieu
00:56:23 Warfield’s Interests
01:03:31 Where to Begin in Studying Warfield
01:06:29 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Reformed Ministry in Bogotá, Colombia

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Rodrigo Andrés Espinoza and Douglas Clawson speak about Reformed and Presbyterian ministry in the nation of Colombia and specifically, its capital, Bogotá. Rev. Clawson has been visiting and serving in Colombia for more than a decade through OPC foreign missions. Rev. Espinoza serves as pastor of Raah Iglesia Cristiana Biblical in Bogotá. The church is a member of the Iglesia Presbiteriana de la Reforma de Colombia.

This is a unique episode. Not only are we recording from the church in Bogotá, but with the assistance of Cristian Castro, we are also presenting our first entirely bilingual episode.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
11:04 Reformed Ministry in Bogotá
16:18 An Approach to Foreign Missions
24:43 An Interest and Hunger for Reformed and Presbyterian Confessional Theology
36:03 Finances and Foreign Missions
45:19 Present Needs in Bogotá and Colombia
49:27 Conclusion

Participants: Andrés Espinoza, Camden Bucey, Cristian Castro, Doug Clawson

John Owen, Jeremiah 31, and the Relationship between the Old and New Covenants

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. R. Carlton Wynne leads us in a study of Jeremiah 31 and the relationship between the Old and New Covenants. In discussing typology and symbolism, Wynne describes the views of John Owen with a view toward understanding better several contemporary views.

Dr. Wynne is Associate Pastor of Westminster PCA in Atlanta and Adjunct Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary (Atlanta).

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:06:35 Jeremiah 31 and the New Covenant
00:11:09 What Is Not New in the New Covenant
00:18:28 Old Testament Types and Symbols
00:26:32 The Prospective Typological Aspect of OT Forms
00:34:03 The Connection between Type and Antitype
00:37:44 A Subservient View of the Mosaic Covenant
00:45:18 Types are More than Pedagogical Tools
00:51:52 OT Types Are Meaningless without Christ
00:54:07 Views on Obedience to the Law
01:00:33 John Owen on the Old and New Covenants
01:13:31 Christ’s Presence in Both the Old and the New
01:18:39 The Old Covenant Not Only Illustrates but Communicates Christ
01:24:11 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Will Wood

The Exile of Adam in Romans

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. David Barry joins us to speak about his book, The Exile of Adam in Romans: The Reversal of the Curse against Adam and Israel in the Substructure of Romans 5 and 8 (Fortress Academic, 2021)

In this book, Barry investigates the “divine son” motif in Romans 5 and 8 through the lens of exile and restoration. Both Adam’s exclusion from Eden and Israel’s exile from Palestine are, for Paul, a divine son falling short of God’s holiness and forfeiting the divine inheritance and presence. The themes of Adam and Israel are complementary examples of sin and separation from God, which Paul argues are reversed in Christ and for believers in union with him. This theme of “divine sons” provides a framework for interpreting Paul’s use of restoration prophecies in Romans 5 and 8.

Dr. Barry is pastor at Midway Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Powder Springs, Georgia and Visiting Lecturer in New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta. He received his Ph.D. in New Testament from Westminster Theological Seminary (2018). Prior to his doctoral work, he studied at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS, (M.Div, 2013), and Clemson University (BS, 2009).

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:51 Background and Biography
00:07:25 Coming to Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics
00:09:35 Paul’s Theology of Exile
00:11:37 First Century Jewish Views on the Exile
00:17:22 A Canonical Perspective of the Exile
00:27:12 The Deeper Protestant Conception
00:29:36 The Original Context of Romans
00:33:49 Shared Themes in Romans 5 and 8
00:37:25 Romans 7 in Context
00:43:52 The Connection between Romans 7 and 8
00:50:15 The Holy Spirit in Romans 8
00:54:22 Biblical Chapter and Verse Markers
00:56:15 Exile and Restoration in the Gospels
00:59:46 The Church in the Wilderness
01:06:16 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Barry, Will Wood

Persistent Prayer

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0400

We take the podcast on the road for three episodes to visit Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. In our first episode of the road trip, we speak with Dr. Guy Richard about his book Persistent Prayer (P&R, 2021). This book is in P&R’s Blessings of the Faith series. This book will prove useful to pastors, elders, and study groups as it provides encouragement and instruction regarding prayer and its blessings.

Dr. Guy M. Richard is President and Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:10 About RTS Atlanta
07:01 An Update on Samuel Rutherford Scholarship
08:21 The Importance of Persistent Prayer
11:02 Prayer and Pastoral Ministry
14:59 A Definition of Prayer
20:43 The Psalter and Prayer
26:39 The Grace and Intimacy of Prayer
32:18 Prayer and Fasting
38:01 Prayer and the Armor of God
41:24 Encouraging the Prayerless
48:02 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Guy Richard, Will Wood

Vos Group Excursus: The More Excellent Ministry

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Danny Olinger, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey discuss Geerhardus Vos’s sermon, “The More Excellent Ministry” from 2 Corinthians 3:18. This sermon is included in Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Theological Seminary. In this sermon, Vos proclaims the good news of the consummate and unfading glory of Christ’s new covenant ministry and its implications for the church this side of Christ’s death and resurrection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
04:21 The Polemical Context of 2 Corinthians 3
10:59 The New Covenant Ministry
17:08 2 Corinthians 2:14–17 and Christ’s Triumph
28:06 Transitory vs. Eternal
31:32 Covered vs. Uncovered
34:54 The Function of Moses’ Veil
40:13 New Covenant Ministry Is Bound Up with Christ
42:28 A Ministry of Abundant Forgiveness and Righteousness
50:08 The Transforming Power of the New Covenant
53:39 Conclusion

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

Reformed Missions and Evangelism

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Eric Watkins joins us to speak about missions and evangelism from a Reformed perspective. Dr. Watkins is senior pastor of Harvest Presbyterian Church (OPC) in San Marcos, California as well as Director of the Center for Missions and Evangelism at Mid-America Reformed Seminary.

The Center for Missions and Evangelism is a new initiative at Mid-America Reformed Seminary designed to enhance the current M.Div. program with a great emphasis upon the Great Commission, as well as developing a new set of classes, conferences, cohorts, and internships focused on areas of evangelism, church planting, discipleship, and foreign missions.

The CME is hosting a conference in just a few weeks. There is still time to register:

More Salt, More Light: Church in an Age of Opportunity
January 28–29, 2022
Anastasia Church
St. Augustine, Florida

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
03:48 Background to the Center for Missions and Evangelism
11:29 Focusing on Missions and Evangelism
20:17 The More Salt, More Light Conference
30:54 Additional Benefits of the Conference
39:44 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Eric Watkins

Highlights from 2021

Fri, 31 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0400

It’s that time of year again. 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 a bunch of great clips lined up for you today.

Throughout 2021 we continued to develop Reformed Academy, our online learning platform. We doubled our student base from last year to more than 3,800 people in 73 countries. These brothers and sisters are taking our on-demand courses in Reformed theology, and many of their churches are using these resources in study groups and Sunday school courses.

We are committed to having each of our courses translated and subtitled in languages where we have established relationships with Reformed missionaries and indigenous churches.

Over the last two years, we have had many wonderful opportunities but not enough people and time in the day to complete many of these projects. We have grown significantly in terms of our reach, but we need to mature in terms of our ministry’s staff and infrastructure.

Please consider supporting us prayerfully and financially in these efforts. Visit https://www.reformedforum.org/donate

Donate

Top Clips from 2021

Episode 689 with Christopher Watkin — Foucault on Sexuality and Identity
Episode 689 with Christopher Watkin — Foucault on Power
Episode 695 with Bruce Pass — Bavinck and Supralapsarianism
Episode 706 with Jim Cassidy — Comparing PCA and OPC General Assemblies
Episode 687 with Benjamin Gladd — Israel and Dispensationalism
Episode 712 — Van Til Group #5 with Lane Tipton and Carlton Wynne — Natural Theology, Experience, and Reason
Episode 699 with G.K. Beale and Benjamin Gladd — Inaugurated Eschatology
Episode 713 with Danny Olinger and John Muether — Premillennialism among Presbyterian Fundamentalists
Episode 709 — Listener Questions with Ryan Noha and Jeff Waddington — Thomas, Van Til, and Classical Theism
Episode 696 with Crawford Gribben — Christian Reconstruction and the Religious Right
Reformed Forum Hot Ones

Episode Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:01:13 2021 in Review
00:10:19 Foucault on Sexuality and Identity
00:16:18 Foucault on Power
00:20:32 Bavinck and Supralapsarianism
00:23:55 Comparing PCA and OPC General Assemblies
00:28:45 Israel and Dispensationalism
00:31:35 Natural Theology, Experience, and Reason
00:36:16 Inaugurated Eschatology
00:44:14 Premillennialism among Presbyterian Fundamentalists
00:49:54 Thomas, Van Til, and Classical Theism
00:55:09 Christian Reconstruction and the Religious Right
00:59:56 Reformed Theology Meets Spicy Wings
01:06:14 Looking Ahead to 2022

Participants: Benjamin Gladd, Bruce Pass, Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Christopher Watkin, Crawford Gribben, Danny Olinger, Greg Beale, Jeff Waddington, John Muether, Lane G. Tipton, Ryan Noha

Karl Barth: A Life in Conflict

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Christiane Tietz speaks about her tremendous biography, Karl Barth: A Life in Conflict (Oxford University Press, 2021).

Dr. Tietz is Professor for Systematic Theology at the Institute of Hermeneutics and Philosophy of Religion at the University of Zurich. From 2008 until 2013 she was Professor for Systematic Theology and Social Ethics at the University of Mainz. She was visiting lecturer or research scholar in Cambridge, Chicago, Heidelberg, Jerusalem, New York, and Princeton. Dr. Tietz is a judge for the Karl Barth-Prize and a member of the Advisory Board of the Karl Barth-Foundation, Basel.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Christiane Tietz, Jim Cassidy

Perichoresis, Endoxation, and the Glory-Spirit

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 17:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton delivers a plenary address from the annual Reformed Forum Theology Conference, which was hosted October 8–9 at Providence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas. Dr. Tipton’s address is titled, “Perichoresis, Endoxation, and the Glory-Spirit: Foundations for Image-Endowment and Covenant Theology in the Work of Meredith G. Kline“

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:02:36 Perichoresis, Endoxation, and the Glory-Spirit
00:18:22 Endoxation and Incarnation
00:32:50 Endoxation as the Initial Creational Replication of Trinitarian Perichoresis
00:46:42 The Glory-Spirit and the Image of God
01:01:21 Special Revelation and Covenantal Advancement
01:09:16 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Life and Ministry of Thomas Chalmers

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Sandy Finlayson speaks about the life and ministry of Thomas Chalmers. Finlayson is the author of Chief Scottish Man: The Life and Ministry of Thomas Chalmers (Evangelical Press). Thomas Chalmers (1780-1847) was a significant figure in nineteenth-century Scotland. Without his vision, organizational skills, and his ability to mobilize opinion, it is unlikely that the Free Church would have come into existence. This new and updated biography—expanded significantly from Finlayson’s Bitesize Biography—tells the story of visionary thinker, minister, and preacher Thomas Chalmers and the many years of struggle for the spiritual independence of the Church of Scotland.

Purchase the book at 10 of Those and receive discounts on bulk orders.

Mr. Finlayson is director of library services and professor of theological bibliography at Westminster Theological Seminary in Glenside, Pennsylvania.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:05:43 Developing an Interest in Chalmers
00:12:09 The Chief Scottish Man of His Time
00:18:49 The Establishmentarian Principle
00:23:10 Scotland in Turmoil
00:26:53 Chalmers’ Early Life and Education
00:36:45 Parish Ministries
00:37:36 The Kilmany Bible Society
00:41:07 Chalmers’ Growth and Transition
00:48:40 Time at St. Andrews University
00:51:59 The Disruption of 1843
00:56:04 Lessons for Today
01:07:48 Conclusion

Van Til Group #6 — The Christian Philosophy of Reality

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey open Cornelius Van Til’s book, The Defense of the Faith to pages 40–43, in which Van Til describes the Christian philosophy of reality. While to some degree it is necessary to use categories of God, man, and universe common to unbelievers in order to engage them apologetically and to evangelize, Christians must clearly set forth the distinctly Christian philosophy of reality. Van Til commences that work in chapter two and promptly addresses eternal unity and plurality with regard to the problem of the one and many.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:39 The Christian Philosophy of Reality
00:09:36 The Infection and Rejection Theses
00:14:49 The Belief that God Is Identical with Reality
00:28:25 The Reality of God as Self-Sufficient
00:31:42 Applying the Philosophy
00:34:01 The Problem of the One and the Many
00:40:19 Practical Considerations of Particularity
00:45:15 The Self-Contained God and the One and Many Problem
00:52:32 Equal Ultimacy Precludes an Abstract Essence
00:59:41 Bavinck on Diversity and Unity
01:02:20 Perichoresis
01:05:50 Conclusion

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

Girolamo Zanchi and Spiritual Marriage

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Patrick O’Banion joins us to speak about Girolamo Zanchi and his book, The Spiritual Marriage between Christ and His Church and Every One of the Faithful. O’Banion translated and introduced a new edition of the book published by Reformation Heritage Books. Zanchi was an Italian Reformer, with close ties to Peter Martyr Vermigli.

Developing from Girolamo Zanchi’s exegetical labors through Ephesians, Spiritual Marriage draws readers into the rich theological of doctrine of union with Christ. Following the lead of the apostle Paul, Zanchi demonstrates how our earthly marriages fulfill their truest purpose by drawing our attention toward the spiritual marriage between Christ and His Church. By paying attention to the Genesis account of Adam’s marriage to Eve, to pertinent Old Testament laws, and to the teachings of Jesus and His apostles, we begin to understand something of that higher and heavenly union. This new translation helps us better understand the great mystery of Christ and His bride.

Patrick O’Banion is International Trainer at Training Leaders International.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:05:05 Biographical Introduction to Zanchi
00:09:14 Zanchi’s Works
00:19:08 Relationship with Peter Martyr Vermigli
00:21:39 Zanchi’s Marriage
00:24:07 Zanchi’s Acquaintance with Grief
00:29:43 Conflict in Chiavenna
00:32:53 Conflict in Strasbourg over the Lord’s Supper
00:40:35 Thoughts on Zanchi and Conflict
00:47:51 Zanchi’s Work, Spiritual Marriage
00:52:39 Zanchi and the Typology of Marriage
00:54:43 Hermeneutics and Theological Method
01:05:53 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Patrick O'Banion

“This is a Myth”: Barth’s Rejection of the Covenant of Works

Fri, 19 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Jim Cassidy delivers a plenary address from the annual Reformed Forum Theology Conference, which was hosted October 8–9 at Providence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas.

Cassidy investigates the ontological assumptions which led Karl Barth to reject the doctrine of the covenant of works. He considers how Barth’s doctrine of God, with its actualistic ontology, is the ground for his rejection of the historic doctrine of classical federal theology. In the process of showing how his novel construction of the doctrine of God leads to his critique, Barth sets up—albeit unwittingly—how own kind of covenant of works whereby man today can ascend into “God’s time for us” to gain the knowledge of God.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:03:28 “This Is a Myth”: Barth’s Rejection of the Covenant of Works
01:00:41 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #73 — The Corruption of Ritual Worship (continued)

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey turn to pages 267–269 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, to consider the collective sin of the nation during the time of the prophets. Vos addresses several passages in this section, including Amos 5:25, Isaiah 1:10–17, and Hosea 6:6.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
05:13 Critics, the Prophets, and the Old Covenant
12:28 The Passover and Redemptive-History
19:32 Amos 5:25
28:33 Isaiah 1:10–17
36:17 Hosea 6:4–10
40:47 Israel’s National Sin
49:06 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Roman Catholicism and American Politics during the Cold War

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Roman Catholicism entered the mainstream of American national life the morning following the November 8, 1960 election when John F. Kennedy won and became the president. While it may seem strange to people who did not grow up in the era, Protestant voters were wary of a Roman Catholic potentially serving as president of the United States. Yet the Vatican may have been even more wary of “Americanism.” While it did not necessarily inhibit Catholics from being Catholic it also was a form of exceptionalism that potentially risked the expansion of Christendom as understood by Catholics.

In this episode, D. G. Hart revisits the arguments of his book, American Catholic: The Politics of Faith during the Cold War, explaining the historical reasons why the relationship between Roman Catholicism and Americanism changed in the 1960s and how it continued to develop in subsequent decades.

Darryl G. Hart is Distinguished Associate Professor of History at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. He is a host of the Paleo Protestant Pudcast with Korey Maas and Miles Smith as well as the Religious Nationalism podcast with Crawford Gribben.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:47 Roman Catholicism and Politics in 2021
00:07:34 Religion in the Public Square
00:11:14 The Literature on American Politics and Catholicism
00:16:07 Writing on Roman Catholicism as a Protestant
00:20:55 Catholicism and the Conservative Movement
00:27:19 Protestant Fears about a Catholic President in 1960
00:33:02 Catholic Antipathy toward Americanism
00:45:49 John Courtney Murray and Catholic Thinking on Church and State
00:56:29 Catholic American Public Intellectuals
01:01:56 The Limits of Americanism
01:08:56 Neo-Americanists and a Modern Faith
01:18:21 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart

Geerhardus Vos and the Covenant of Works

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Danny Olinger delivers an address at the 2021 Reformed Forum Theology Conference. The event was held October 8–9, 2021 at Providence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas.

The conference theme was, “The Promise of Life: God’s Plan for His People in the Covenant of Works.” In contrast to Roman Catholic, modernist, and evangelical approaches, we explored a thoroughly Reformed understanding of God’s relationship to Adam as he was created. We learned how Jesus Christ ultimately brings us to the glorious future which God originally offered to Adam in the garden of Eden.

Danny Olinger is General Secretary for the Committee on Christian Education of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. He is the author of Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theologian, Confessional Presbyterian and the editor of A Geerhardus Vos Anthology: Biblical and Theological Insights Alphabetically Arranged.

Lecture Handout Download

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:46 Geerhardus Vos and the Covenant of Works
00:10:49 Summary in The Eschatology of the Psalter
00:16:20 Adam and Christ in Romans 5 and 1 Corinthians 15
00:26:06 The Promise of Life in the Covenant of Works
00:41:28 The Nature and Destiny of Man
00:48:43 Reformed and Roman Catholic Theology
00:59:15 Theology from Genesis 2:16–17
01:02:22 The Sabbath Day
01:12:25 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

Nature, Grace, and Covenant: The Deeper Protestant Conception and Twentieth-Century Roman Catholicism

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

The beatific vision (1 John 3:2) is the consummation of God’s relationship with his people. While Christians of all traditions acknowledge this blessed future to some degree, there are significant differences as to how it all works out. The Reformed tradition has understood this future and its genesis in terms of a covenantal relationship between God and Adam.

If you have listened much to our podcasts or courses at Reformed Forum, you likely have heard us discuss “the deeper Protestant conception.” This is a phrase first used by Geerhardus Vos in his Reformed Dogmatics. It involves the notion that man originally was created good yet with an eschatological purpose. Even before the fall into sin, Adam was intended to advance to a higher, more glorious, eschatological life with God in heavenly places. Elsewhere, this is captured in the phrase, “eschatology precedes soteriology.”

Yet developments in Roman Catholic theology throughout the end of the nineteenth century and into the twentieth century gave rise to a movement that also advocates for eschatology preceding soteriology and a dismantling of the traditional dualistic separation of nature and grace.

In this address, Camden Bucey traces the historical developments of Roman Catholic theology in the twentieth century. In so doing, we may deepen our understanding of the already deeper Protestant conception while improving our ability to represent the diversity of Catholic thought leading up to and following the Second Vatican Council.

This address was delivered at our 2021 Theology Conference held at Providence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas.

Chapter Markers

00:00:00 Introduction
00:05:22 Nature, Grace, and Covenant
00:11:01 Basic Features of the Covenant of Works
00:18:42 The Deeper Protestant Conception
00:31:43 Twentieth-Century Developments in Catholicism
00:40:03 Henri de Lubac’s Proposal
00:45:57 Karl Rahner’s Response
00:50:22 Understanding Merit in Relation to Nature, Grace, and Covenant
00:57:40 Twentieth-Century Catholicism and the Reformed Tradition
01:10:55 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey

Theological Education in Foreign Missions

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 16:00:00 -0400

In this episode, several OPC missionaries discuss theological education in foreign mission fields. Douglas Clawson is associate general secretary for the OPC’s Committee on Foreign Missions. Charles Jackson serves as a missionary in Uganda, and Mike serves in East Asia. Each of these ministers speaks about their experience in training officers for the building up of indigenous churches, sharing the joys, struggles, and present needs in various fields.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Charles Jackson, Doug Clawson

Handbook on the Gospels

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Benjamin L. Gladd, Associate Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, speaks about his new Handbook on the Gospels. This book is part of a series edited by Dr. Gladd and published by Baker Academic, which covers the entirety of the New Testament in three volumes. Neither becoming preoccupied with the minutiae of the text nor losing sight of the big picture, Gladd’s handbook address the content of the gospels thoroughly yet in an accessible and compelling manner.

Participants: Benjamin Gladd, Camden Bucey

Vos Group #72 — Collective National Sin and the Corruption of Ritual Worship

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey turn to pages 264–266 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, to consider the collective sin of the nation during the time of the prophets. Vos speaks particularly of the prophet Amos, and his indictment of false worship practices among the people.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:09:14 Collective National Sin
00:17:33 Oppression of the Poor and Sexual Immorality
00:24:40 Licentious Idolatry
00:28:24 The Covenant-Historical Context
00:35:26 The Motivation of the Apostates (Amos 8:1–6)
00:42:04 A Critical Interpretation of the Prophets’ View of Sacrifices
00:45:57 Manners of False Worship
00:55:17 Cultural Forces and the Church
01:00:33 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Supporting Diaconal Ministry

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

David Nakhla speaks about the work of deacons and how the Orthodox Presbyterian Church is working to assist the diaconate in its labors for Christ’s church. Mr. Nakhla is the administrator for the OPC’s Committee on Diaconal Ministries and the Short-Term Missions and Disaster Response Coordinator.

Chapters

[00:00] Introduction
[04:46] Overview of the work of the Committee on Diaconal Ministry
[16:15] An Expanding View of the Church through Short-Term Missions
[27:31] The Challenges of COVID
[30:22] Encouraging Diaconal Ministry at Home
[36:25] Diaconal Ministry, Insurance, and the Government
[48:10] Podcast and Case Studies
[53:56] Resources for Diaconal Training
[58:31] Conclusion

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, David Nakhla

Reformed Academy Update / Union with Christ and Sanctification

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey discuss Reformed Academy and the newest course to launch on the platform, titled Union with Christ: The Benefits of His Suffering and Glory. This latest course is taught by Lane Tipton, and we include the tenth and final lecture toward the end of this episode.

Video Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction
00:04:13 The Courses at Reformed Academy
00:11:49 Future Course Availability
00:14:15 Podcasts, Videos, and Chapter Markers
00:16:06 The Process of Producing a Course
00:22:53 Translating the Course Videos
00:29:26 The Global Reach of Reformed Academy
00:38:06 How to Help
00:45:05 Union with Christ and Sanctification
01:37:42 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Ryan Noha

The Influence of Modernism on Catholicism and Presbyterianism

Fri, 10 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

After discussing their trips to Colombia with OPC foreign missions, Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey explore the influence of modernism upon Roman Catholicism and American Presbyterianism. Modernism led to many changes in American Presbyterianism, including the reorganization of Princeton Seminary and the founding of Westminster Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. The mainline church eventually adopted the Confession of 1967, which many have understood as a doctrinal shift toward Barthianism. These large-scale movements roughly parallel the developments in Roman Catholicism, which moved from the anti-modernist oath of 1910 to the sweeping changes of the Second Vatican Council (1962–1965).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #71 — The Rupture of the Bond

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 263–264 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, to consider the sin of Israel and the resulting rupture of their covenant bond with the Lord.

The Committee of Nine and Evangelicalism

Fri, 27 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Danny Olinger and John Muether join Camden Bucey to speak about the early history of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and the forces within the young ecclesiastical body desiring broader influence throughout the culture.

J. Gresham Machen gathered a broad coalition of “fundamentalists” in leading a charge against modernism at Princeton Theological Seminary and then throughout the Presbyterian Church (USA). After many within this coalition were pushed out or left to form what would become the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, different agendas arose. A significant event—involving what would come to be known as the Committee of Nine—at the 1941 and 1942 General Assemblies would set the tone for the future of the young church.

For further study:

Hakkenberg, Michael A. “The Battle over the Ordination of Gordon H. Clark.” In Pressing toward the Mark: Essays Commemorating Fifty Years of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, edited by Charles G. Dennison and Richard C. Gamble, 329–50. Philadelphia: Committee for the Historian of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, 1986.
Woolley, Paul. “Discontent!” The Presbyterian Guardian 13, no. 14 (July 25, 1944): 213–14.
Minutes from the ninth General Assembly of the OPC (the reports of the committee begin on p. 28)

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, John Muether

Van Til Group #5 — The Doctrine of Salvation, the Church, and the Last Things

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey open Cornelius Van Til’s book, The Defense of the Faith to pages 33–39 wherein Van Til discusses the doctrine of salvation. Van Til is insistent to maintain the incommunicable attributes of God in all aspects of theology, even here in soteriology. Throughout this section, Van Til refuses to admit any form of mutualism or correlativism in the God-man relation. He writes, “If we refuse to mix the eternal and the temporal at the point of creation and at the point of the incarnation we must also refuse to mix them at the point of salvation.”

If God is omnipotent, for example, and he desires to save, it is not possible for man to frustrate that plan. This carries through in the doctrine of church as well as the doctrine of last things, wherein the absolute sovereignty of God is maintained at every point throughout history.

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

Encountering the Westminster Shorter Catechism

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey discuss their experiences with catechisms among Roman Catholicism, Lutheranism , and evangelicalism and then their introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #70 — The Bond between Jehovah and Israel

Fri, 06 Aug 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 256–263 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, to discuss the bond between the Lord and Israel. In this chapter, Vos considers revelation during the period of the prophets, but in this section, he specifically considers the unique perspective on covenant (berith) offered by Isaiah and Hosea.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Listener Questions

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Ryan Noha poses several questions submitted by our listeners and views. Along with Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey, the panel discusses Thomas and Van Til on the doctrine of God, how the eternal decree relates to the well-meant offer of eschatological life in the covenant of works, aspects of our union with Christ, and several matters of eschatology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Ryan Noha

The Liturgy of the Apocalypse

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Glen Clary discusses the worship setting of Revelation 4–5 and its significance for the church’s present and future worship. While on the isle of Patmos, John was given a vision of the highest heavens. While we may consider these visions as symbols conveying cryptic messages for the church, they are a picture of the worship that occurs among the heavenly host in the highest heavens. Our worship on earth is intended to serve as a replica of this worship. And as we gather to worship in Spirit and truth, our worship is enjoined to the worship in God’s throne room.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

The Work of Christ

Fri, 16 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We preview a forthcoming course on Union with Christ and the Doctrine of Salvation, taught by Lane Tipton.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

General Assembly Discussion / The Covenant of Works

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey discuss the 48th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in America, which recently adjourned in St. Louis, Missouri, and look forward to the 87th General Assembly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church to be held in Sioux Center, Iowa.

They then turn their attention to the covenant of works, which is the subject of our 2021 Fall Theology Conference in Pflugerville, Texas.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Van Til Group #4 — The Doctrine of Christ

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey open Cornelius Van Til’s book, The Defense of the Faith to pages 32–33 wherein Van Til discusses the doctrine of Christ. These are the fundamental building blocks of the consistent Christian apologetic.

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

Caring for Ministers

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. John Fikkert speaks about providing specialized care for ministers. Rev. Fikkert is the director of the OPC’s Committee on Ministerial Care, which provides a range services for ministers such as counseling and diaconal aid, financial planning assistance, webinars on a range of topics, and funds for sabbaticals.

Participants: Camden Bucey, John Fikkert

Seeker’s Progress

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Rob McKenzie speaks about the Christian life and a variety of apologetic encounters he has woven into his book Seeker’s Progress. In this novel, McKenzie explores the world that John Bunyan created in his classic book, The Pilgrim’s Progress. There is another man from the City of Destruction who follows after Christian also seeking to find truth. With the help of Evangelist, Seeker follows the King’s road on his way to the Celestial City. Along the way, he visits many of the same places that Christian visited and meets several of the same people that Christian met all the while trying to catch up to his friends, Christian and Faithful. His experiences are very different than his predecessors. His journey takes him to some places that Christian never went, such as the towns of Morality and Fair Speech. Seeker wrestles with the questions, “Don’t all roads lead to the Celestial City?” “If the King loves everyone, wouldn’t He save everyone?”

Rob McKenzie is a ruling elder at Westminster OPC in Indian Head Park and co-host of the podcast, Theology Simply Profound. He is the author of Identifying the Seed: An Examination and Evaluation of the Differences between Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology and its corresponding study guide. You may buy both as a bundle through our online store.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Rob McKenzie

The Life and Legacy of R. C. Sproul

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Stephen J. Nichols speaks about the life and legacy of Dr. R. C. Sproul. Dr. Nichols has written a biography of Dr. Sproul, which has recently been published by Crossway. This biography details R. C.’s family history and early life in Pittsburgh, through his seminary education and early ministry all the way to the end of his life, reflecting on the many institutions Dr. Sproul founded and helped to shape.

Dr. Stephen J. Nichols is president of Reformation Bible College, chief academic officer for Ligonier Ministries, and a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow. He holds a Ph.D. from Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. He is host of the podcasts 5 Minutes in Church History and Open Book. He is author of more than twenty books, including Beyond the 95 Theses, a Time for Confidence, and coeditor of Crossway’s Theologians on the Christian Life series.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Stephen J. Nichols

Vos Group — Seeking and Saving the Lost

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to the third sermon in Grace and Glory, a collection of sermons Geerhardus Vos preached at the Miller Chapel of Princeton Theological Seminary. In “Seeking and Saving the Lost,” Vos preaches from Luke 19:10, wherein Jesus describes his ministry to redeem sinners and to bring them into communion with the one true and living God.

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

Redemption Accomplished and Applied

Fri, 28 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton is in the studio with Camden Bucey to discuss the doctrine of salvation and union with Christ from the eschatological perspective of redemption accomplished and applied. On the heels of recording a new course on the topic with Dr. Tipton, they discuss the foundational categories of historia salutis and ordo salutis as well as how Jesus’s resurrection was simultaneously his justification, adoption, sanctification, and glorification. They then connect the death and resurrection of Christ to the Holy Spirit’s application of his work to individual believers in history.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Story Retold: A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament

Fri, 21 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Drs. G. K. Beale and Benjamin Gladd speak about their book The Story Retold: A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament (IVP Academic) in which they seek to couch every major passage of Scripture within the broad history of redemption, making sense of the New Testament in light of the Old. New Testament introductions typically either emphasize the history behind the text through discussions of authorship, dating, and audience or explore the content of the text itself. This introduction is unique in that it considers the Old Testament background to the New Testament and the overarching narrative of redemption throughout all of redemptive-history.

Dr. G. K. Beale is Professor of New Testament and Biblical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Dallas, Texas.

Dr. Benjamin L. Gladd is Associate Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi.

Vos Group #69 — Emotions and Affections

Fri, 14 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 255–256 of Geerhardus Vos, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the ways in which the Old Testament prophets use anthropomorphism to describe God. The “emotional” or “affectional” dispositions of Jehovah’s nature is the next set of attributes. He says, as a guiding principle, “we are here in a sphere full of anthropomorphism” and says that “an anthropomorphism” is never without an “inner core of important truth” that “must be translated into more theological language” where we can “enrich our knowledge of God” (255).

Vos makes an absolutely critical observation here that needs sustained attention to the theological issues he raises here. They are as important in our day as in Vos’ if not more so. Anthropomorphic language ascribes the qualities of the creature to God’s acts in time. But such language is never intended by Reformed theologians to be taken in a univocal way, as though God literally possesses creaturely qualities.

God’s acts in time do not require him to be temporal.
God acts in the contingent historical order of creation do not require him to be contingent and historical.
God’s acts in relation to mutable and passible creatures do not require that he be mutable and passible like the creature.
There is no point of univocity between the Creator and the creature—no mutual sharing in mutability and temporality.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Sufferings and Glory of Jesus the Messiah in Acts 2–3

Fri, 07 May 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We welcome Dr. Rita Cefalu to speak about the rich biblical-theological themes regarding Christ in Acts 2–3. Dr. Cefalu has written, “The Sufferings and Glory of Jesus the Messiah in Acts 2–3,” which appears in The Seed of Promise: The Sufferings and Glory of the Messiah: Essays in Honor of T. Desmond Alexander (Glossa House), co-edited by Dr. Cefalu and Paul R. Williamson. Dr. Cefalu is a writer and lecturer in biblical and theological studies in Florida.

This book is a festschrift presented to T. Desmond Alexander on the year of his 65th birthday. In distinction from other volumes of this type, this book is structured around the biblical theological theme of the seed promise of Genesis 3:15, with its sub-theme focused on the sufferings and glory of the Messiah. Accordingly, biblical scholars (both OT and NT), who have in some capacity benefited from Dr. Alexander’s scholarship and are known for their work in particular books of the Bible and/or the discipline of biblical theology, investigate these particular themes in light of their respective books.

Links

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Rita Cefalu

Christian Reconstruction in the Pacific Northwest

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Crawford Gribben speaks about his book, Survival and Resistance: Christian Reconstruction in the Pacific Northwest (Oxford University Press), in which he describes the migration of conservative evangelicals to the Northwest of the United States, where they hope to resist the impact of secular modernity and to survive an anticipated breakdown of society. Discussing figures such as R. J. Rushdoony, Douglas Wilson, and John Wesley Rawles, Gribben explains their growing theological and cultural influence and impact upon local political and economic life within the larger context of national and global trends.

Dr. Gribben is professor of the School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics at Queens University, Belfast.

Christology and Christocentrism in Herman Bavinck

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. Bruce Pass discusses Herman Bavinck as a sytematic theologian and the role Christology plays within his theological system. Throughout his career, Bavinck identified different central dogma but developed his theology around Christology as a “middle point” to which all other doctrines relate.

Dr. Pass holds a doctorate in systematic theology from the University of Edinburgh. His thesis has been published as The Heart of Dogmatics: Christology and Christocentrism in Herman Bavinck (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht).

Participants: Bruce Pass, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Diet of Worms

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

The main events of the Diet of Worms relating to Luther took place from 16 to 18 April 1521. This year marks the 500^th anniversary of the Diet of Worms, and on this occasion, we welcome Dr. Herman Selderhuis to rehearse the events of the diet and share his thoughts about its enduring significance for the church.

The Diet of Worms of 1521 was a formal deliberative assembly of the Holy Roman Empire called by Emperor Charles V and conducted in the city of Worms. Martin Luther was summoned to the Diet in order to renounce or reaffirm his views in response to a Papal bull of Pope Leo X. Luther defended these views and refused to recant them. At the end of the Diet, the Emperor issued the Edict of Worms, condemning Luther and banning citizens from propagating his ideas.

Dr. Herman Selderhuis is Professor of church history and church polity at the Theological University of Apeldoorn and President of the REFORC (Reformation Research Consortium). He is the author or editor of several books:

Martin Luther: A Spiritual Biography (Crossway, 2017)
John Calvin: A Pilgrim’s Life (IVP Academic, 2009)
The Calvin Handbook (editor) (Eerdmans, 2009)
Calvin’s Theology of the Psalms (Baker Academic, 2007)
Handbook of Dutch Church History (editor) (Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2014)
A Companion to Reformed Orthodoxy (editor) (Brill, 2013)

Participants: Camden Bucey, Herman Selderhuis

Typology and Covenant Membership in Hebrews

Fri, 09 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We pick up on our conversation from episode 655 with Jeremy Boothy on covenant theology in the book of Hebrews by focusing upon Vos’s Triangle and the heavenly-centered understanding of typology expressed by the author of Hebrews. This leads us to discuss a redemptive-historical hermeneutic as well as the nature of new covenant membership in our present covenant-historical era.

Rev. Boothy is pastor of Christ Covenant OPC in Amarillo, Texas.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeremy Boothby

Vos Group #68 — The Nature and Attributes of Jehovah: Righteousness

Fri, 02 Apr 2021 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 250–255 of Geerhardus Vos, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider God’s righteousness—particularly as it is revealed during the time of the Old Testament prophets.

Vos speaks of God’s righteousness as “midway between the transcendental and communicative attributes” (250). God is the righteous judge. In human terms, a judge is righteous because he adheres strictly to the standard or law over him. How does this apply to God, who has no standard or law above him? “Underlying the decisions of Jehovah lies His nature” (251). The law is righteous because it is based upon God’s nature, not the other way around.

Vos speaks of God’s forensic or judicial righteousness branching out in several directions, as a righteousness of cognizance, retribution, vindication, salvation, and benevolence.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Trends in Christian Education

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

All Christian parents are called to raise their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph. 6:4). In Deuteronomy 6:4–9, the Lord commands his covenant people,

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.

It is non-negotiable for covenant families to raise their children according to the Lord’s commands. However, this education may take different forms amidst different circumstances.

In this episode, Erica Bucey, Director of Development at Westlake Christian Academy in Grayslake, Illinois, speaks about various trends in Christian education given the COVID-19 pandemic, which has uprooted education in America. Families have been influenced to think about education in ways that they have not before.

We speak about different approaches to education, the trade-offs involved in each form, as well as current legislation in Illinois that encourages a form of progressive indoctrination in public schools. We conclude by discussing ways in which churches can support families by talking about these matters and educating them.

Links to Resources

Cornelius Van Til, “What Shall We Feed Our Children?” The Presbyterian Guardian, Vol. 3 No. 2 (October 1936), 23–24.
Cornelius Van Til, Foundations of Christian Education
Cornelius Van Til, Essays on Christian Education
Doug Wilson, The Case for Classical Christian Education
David Engelsma, Reformed Education: The Christian School as Demand of the Covenant
Stanley Kurtz speaking with Mark Bauerlein on the First Things podcast
George F. Will, “The Worst-Governed State Now Turns to Indoctrination”

Participants: Camden Bucey, Erica Bucey

New Course: Van Til’s Trinitarian Theology

Fri, 19 Mar 2021 04:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton discusses “Van Til’s Trinitarian Theology,” the latest on-demand video course released with Reformed Academy. Designed to equip the student to engage critically central issues in trinitarian theology, this course will focus on the architectonic significance of the Trinity both in Van Til’s theology and apologetics. Special attention will be given to Van Til’s historical and theological context, his theology of triune personhood, the structure and function of the representational principle, the distinctively trinitarian character of the transcendental method, and his rejection of all species of correlativism, ranging from Karl Barth to contemporary expressions of Evangelical mutualism.

Enroll for free at https://www.reformedforum.org/courses/van-tils-trinitarian-theology

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

Michel Foucault

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Christopher Watkin joins us to speak about his book, Michel Foucault, published by P&R Publishing in the Great Thinkers series. Michel Foucault (1926–1984) was a French philosopher, historian of ideas, writer, political activist, and literary critic. Although he was widely influential during his lifetime, Foucault’s philosophy has come to even greater influence and applicability in recent years within the contemporary cultural and political discourse regarding sexual ethics and identity.

Dr. Watkin is a lecturer at Monash University in Melbourne. He is the author of a number of academic books in the area of modern European philosophy. Over the past few years he has written four books published by P&R Publishing, including Thinking through Creation: Genesis 1 and 2 as Tools of Cultural Critique and three books in the Great Thinkers series: Jacques Derrida (2017), Michel Foucault (2018) and Gilles Deleuze (2020).

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Christopher Watkin

Vos Group Excursus: Hungering and Thirsting after Righteousness

Fri, 05 Mar 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Danny Olinger, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey discuss Geerhardus Vos’s sermon, “Hungering and Thirsting after Righteousness” from Matthew 5:6. This sermon is included in Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Theological Seminary.

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

From Adam and Israel to the Church

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Benjamin Gladd, associate professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi joins us to speak about his book, From Adam and Israel to the Church: A Biblical Theology of the People of God, which is in the Essential Studies in Biblical Theology series from IVP Academic. Dr. Gladd is also the editor of the series. In this particular book, Dr. Gladd examines the nature of the people of God from Genesis to Revelation through the lens of being in God’s “image.”

Gladd addresses biblical-theological themes such as Eden as a mountain-temple, Israel as a corporate image of God, Christ as the perfect image of God and firstborn over all creation, and the Church as the renewed image of God oriented toward the new heavens and new earth.

Participants: Benjamin Gladd, Camden Bucey, Jeremy Boothby

J. Gresham Machen’s Theological Method

Fri, 19 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. William Dennison, pastor of Emmanuel OPC in Kent, Washington, speaks about J. Gresham Machen’s theological method as disclosed through his radio addresses just a few years prior to his death. Machen understood that the modern world and the church were in a state of emergency. While many of Machen’s listeners would have thought about the economic volatility of the depression or perhaps the political unrest of fascism and communism. Moreover, many of these listeners would have expected Machen to discuss solutions to these ailments along the lines of those advocated by progressive modernists. Yet, Machen called his listeners to Christ and his kingdom, which transcends this visible world.

Machen speaks often about the benefits of reason, experience, and common sense. In these radio addresses, however, he states clearly that all these elements are to be viewed in subordination to the truth of God’s Word. Specifically, they function in the manner that God, the Creator and Ruler over all things has created them to function. We know this from the Bible.
Dennison, “J. Gresham Machen’s Theological Method”

Machen rejected a general appeal to categories such as reason, experience, empirical facts, common sense, and rhetoric as a means of establishing common ground because of his deep understanding of the effects of sin upon all of man’s faculties. Dennison connects this aspect of Machen’s theology to that of his colleague at Westminster Seminary, Cornelius Van Til.

As a man whose theology appears to still be under development, Machen was neither blindly following the evidentialist tradition of Old Princeton leaning upon Thomas Reid and Scottish Common Sense Realism nor that later mature apologetic system of Van Til.

What Happens When We Worship

Fri, 12 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Jonathan Landry Cruse speaks about worship. Cruse has written What Happens When We Worship (Reformation Heritage Books). Many churchgoers assume that worship is inherently boring, something we need to make exciting. But Cruse seeks to demonstrate that churchgoing only seems monotonous and mundane because our eyes are blinded to the supernatural wonder that is taking place all around us. In this conversation, we discuss the significance of worship and the elements that comprise it.

Rev. Cruse is pastor of Community Presbyterian Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jonathan Landry Cruse

Van Til Group #3 — Anthropology and the God-man Relation

Fri, 05 Feb 2021 05:00:00 -0400

On pages 29–34 of The Defense of the Faith, Cornelius Van Til continues to describe the basic Reformed doctrines that lay the foundation for his apologetic. It is evident even in this introductory material how he considers his project. He is neither seeking to be idiosyncratic nor original (in the sense of developing something foreign or external to confessional Reformed theology). Rather, he is developing a method of apologetics that is thoroughly consistent with the Reformed creeds and confessions.

Having addressed the doctrine of God, and particularly the doctrine of the Trinity, Van Til continues to the doctrine of man before moving to Christology and the rest of the traditional theological loci. In his introductory treatment of anthropology, Van Til focuses on the God-man relation, man’s creatureliness, the aspects of the image of God, the doctrine of sin, and how each of these relate to Roman Catholic, Arminian, and Lutheran theology, and the discipline of apologetics.

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

God or Baal: Calvin’s Letters on Worship

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. David Noe joins us to speak about John Calvin, God or Baal: Two Letters on the Reformation of Worship and Pastoral Service (Reformation Heritage Books), which includes translations of two letters:

We Must Flee the Forbidden Rites of the Wicked and Maintain the Purity of the Christian Faith
The Christian Man’s Obligation to Fulfill or Renounce the Priestly Offices of the Papal Church

Calvin most likely wrote these letters in the fall of 1536. Both have a polemical tone and touch upon the subject of worship. These letters are Calvin’s first strong rebuke of two friends, men whom he had known for some time and had clearly expressed evangelical convictions and yet wanted to remain in the positions of privilege and power that they enjoyed within French Catholicism.

Dr. Noe is Professor of Classics at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He has also published a translation of Franciscus Junius’ (1545–1602) De Theologia Vera (Reformation Heritage Books) and a translation of Theodore Beza’s (1519–1605) Plana et Perspicua Tractatio De Coena Domini (Reformation Heritage Books).

David Dickson’s Sermons on Lamentations

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Matthew Vogan speaks about David Dickson’s Sermons on Jeremiah’s Lamentations (Naphtali Press Special Editions & Reformation Heritage Books). Mr. Vogan is General Manager of Reformation Scotland, a charitable trust whose aim is to promote the restoration of the Christian Church in Scotland by informing, educating and promoting understanding of our Reformed heritage through film, print and other media.

If you are interested in connecting extracts from David Dickson’s writings with contemporary concerns, visit the David Dickson blog, which Reformation Scotland have constructed.

Naphtali Press Special Editions

Please considering sponsoring Naphtali Press Special Editions. Sponsorships are as low as $16.59 per month for 12 installments.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Matthew Vogan

Vos Group #67: The Holiness of God in the Prophets

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 05:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 245–250 of Geerhardus Vos’s book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss the prophet’s view of God’s holiness. Vos contrasts the concept of holiness found in pagan religions with that of the biblical prophets. The concept of holiness in Scripture is God-centered. It begins with the Lord, his transcendence, and then radiates outward to creation as he is revealed. This is how we must consider holiness when it is applied to creation—whether to man made in his image, to places, or to consecrated objects used in worship.

The liberal theologians Vos often addresses have no issue acknowledging the “holiness” of man understood as moral goodness. But for Vos, ethical goodness requires the comparison and relation to a holy God. In this sense, it is not possible to de-spiritualize Scripture and retain the Bible’s concept of holiness.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Spirituality of the Church

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 05:00:00 -0400

C. N. Willborn speaks about the spirituality of the church, the doctrine which affirms that the Church is a spiritual institution with spiritual aims. It is not administered according to the kingdom of this world. This has a direct bearing upon the work of the church, which is explicitly described and defined by Christ himself in the Great Commission of Matthew 28.

Rev. Dr. Willborn is pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and adjunct professor of Historical Theology at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He is the author of many works on history and theology, including the focus of this conversation, “The Soul of the Church: The Church’s Spiritual Mission” in The Confessional Presbyterian, volume 16 (2020): 201–209.

Highlights from 2020

Fri, 01 Jan 2021 05:00:00 -0400

Since Christ the Center began nearly thirteen years ago, we have taken time to look back on the highlights of the year. Continuing the update to our tradition from last year, here this year’s top ten clips from Christ the Center as determined by YouTube views.

Ep. 633 – What Is Christendom? with David VanDrunen
Ep. 655 – 1689 Federalism and Reformed Covenant Theology with Jeremy Boothby
Ep. 638 – John Frame and Two Divine Existences with James Dolezal
Ep. 659 – Why Study Karl Barth? with Jim Cassidy
Ep. 633 – The Noahic Covenant with David VanDrunen
Ep. 630 – The Importance of Discourse Analysis with Matthew Patton
Ep. 641 – The Ancient Understanding of Baptism as Washing and Regeneration with Glen Clary
Ep. 629 – Abridged Bavinck with Carlton Wynne and Charles Williams
Ep. 666 – John Nelson Darby and Dispensationalism with Michael Glodo
Ep. 631 – What Is Public Theology? with Jordan Ballor

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Charles Williams, David VanDrunen, Glen Clary, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington, Jeremy Boothby, Jim Cassidy, Jordan Ballor, Matthew Patton, Michael Glodo

The Nativity Hymns in the Gospel of Luke

Fri, 25 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0400

One of the highlights of the Christmas season is singing the Christmas hymns. Singing songs about the nativity of Jesus is one of the oldest traditions in the Christian church, and dates to the beginning of the New Testament church—even to the birth of Christ himself. Luke includes four such songs: Mary’s (1:46–55), Zechariah’s (1:68–79), Simeon’s (2:29–32), and the Angels’ (2:14).

In this episode, Glen Clary seeks to explain the redemptive-historical significance of the songs with reference to the temple cultus. These nativity canticles register a transition in the temple cultus from shadow to reality (type to antitype) in that they proclaim the arrival of the high priest of the heaven, who will bring the earthly temple cultus to its consummate fulfillment. They serve as a liturgical bridge between the old covenant and the new covenant and set the stage for the message of Luke, introducing significant theological themes developed in Luke-Acts.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

James Ussher and the Covenant of Works

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Harrison Perkins discusses the theology and historical context of James Ussher with particular attention to the development of the confessional understanding of the covenant of works. Ussher was the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland between 1625 and 1656. He was a prolific scholar and significant church leader.

Perkins is the author of Catholicity and the Covenant of Works: James Ussher and the Reformed Tradition (Oxford University Press). In this book, he demonstrates how Ussher used the covenant of works to inform many of the most important features of his theology. While the covenant of works is most closely identified with the Reformed tradition, Perkins makes the case that when the interconnectedness of the various doctrines is explained, there is a deep catholicity undergirding it. Ussher constructed his understanding of the covenant from traditional teachings that he appropriated from the ancient and medieval church.

Perkins is pastor of London City Presbyterian Church in London and lecturer at Edinburgh Seminary in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Harrison Perkins

Herman Bavinck’s Use of Friedrich Schleiermacher

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Cory Brock describes how Herman Bavinck interacted with and appropriated the theology of Friedrich Schleiermacher throughout his academic career. There is a significant shift toward a more pronounced and direct use of Schleiermacher later in his life. But any appropriation of Schleiermacher by Bavinck may surprise people.

Schleiermacher (1768–1834) is recognized as the father of modern liberal theology. It would appear that any incorporation of Schleiermacher’s theology or philosophy would compromise Bavinck’s Calvinist orthodoxy. Indeed, this manner of reading Bavinck gave rise to a so-called “two Bavincks hypothesis.” Brock builds a case for the relation of these two aspects in Bavinck in his book, Orthodox yet Modern: Herman Bavinck’s Use of Friedrich Schleiermacher (Lexham Press). Cory Brock serves as pastor of college and career at First Presbyterian Church (PCA), Jackson, Mississippi.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cory Brock, Jim Cassidy

The Use of Irony in Redemptive-History

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 05:00:28 -0400

Dr. G. K. Beale speaks about the use of irony in redemptive-history, which is the subject of his book Redemptive Reversals and the Ironic Overturning of Human Wisdom (Crossway).

The Bible is full of ironic situations in which God overturns the world’s wisdom by doing the opposite of what is expected―people are punished by their own sin, the persecution of the church is the catalyst for its growth, Paul claims to have strength through weakness, and more. In this book, Beale explores God’s pattern of divine irony in both judgment and salvation, finding its greatest expression in Jesus’s triumph over death through death on a cross. Unpacking this pattern throughout redemptive history, Beale shows us how God often uses what is seemingly weak and foolish to underscore his own strength and power in the lives of his people today.

Dr. Beale holds the J. Gresham Machen chair of New Testament and is research professor of New Testament and biblical interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary.

Covenant Theology in Hebrews

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 05:00:41 -0400

Dr. Robert Cara, Provost and Chief Academic Officer of Reformed Theological Seminary and Hugh and Sallie Reaves Professor of New Testament at RTS Charlotte, discusses the covenant theology evident in the letter to the Hebrews. God has one plan and purpose for his people throughout history, and he mediates this relationship through successive covenants, ultimately finding eschatological fulfillment in the New Covenant instituted by Jesus Christ.

Dr. Cara’s chapter, “Covenant in Hebrews” is available in Covenant Theology: Biblical, Theological, and Historical Perspectives (Crossway), edited by Guy Prentiss Waters, J. Nicholas Reid, and John R. Muether.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Robert Cara

Vos Group Excursus: The Wonderful Tree

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 05:00:16 -0400

In this episode of Vos Group, we turn to Vos’s sermon, “The Wonderful Tree,” in the collection of his sermons, Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary. Preaching on Hosea 14:8, Vos describes the nature of religion as consisting of what God is for man and of what man is for God. Hosea features what God is for man in the metaphor of an evergreen cypress, offering life-giving sustenance and shade in all seasons. This sermon is the longest of Vos’s that we possess, and it demonstrates several surprising features, which Danny Olinger, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey discuss.

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

Constitution and Covenant in 1 Corinthians 1–4

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 05:00:49 -0400

Dr. Bradley J. Bitner, associate professor of New Testament at Westminster Seminary California, speaks about constitution and covenant in ancient Corinth and how these inform Paul’s argument to the Corinthians. Dr. Bitner has written a thorough study of the subject titled, Paul’s Political Strategy in 1 Corinthians 1–4: Constitution and Covenant (Cambridge University Press).

In 1 Corinthians 1:1–4:6, we witness a collision of constitutions. This clash is the result of Paul contending for a specifically ecclesial politeia with reference to the larger colonial politeia. Birthed from Caesar’s unsystematic and privately composed memoranda, the lex coloniae provides an indispensable frame of reference for understanding life in early Roman Corinth, the colony named in his honor. For this reason, it is also crucial for the interpretation of the Pauline epistle known as 1 Corinthians.

Dr. Bitner served as a pastor for three years before pursuing doctoral studies. He completed his Ph.D. in New Testament and Early Christianity in 2013 at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia. He has two other book projects in progress on the biblical theology of Geerhardus Vos and Paul’s paradigm for building up the church in 1 Corinthians.

Participants: Adam York, Bradley Bitner, Camden Bucey

Van Til Group #2 — The Doctrine of God

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Lane Tipton, Carlton Wynne, and Camden Bucey discuss pages 25–29 of Cornelius Van Til’s book, The Defense of the Faith. In this section, Van Til details the doctrine of God that structures his apologetic thought. A Reformed apologetic seeks first to understand the nature of the God it seeks to set forth and defend. In Van Til’s estimate, we must ask “what kind” of a God we believe in before we can proceed in any meaningful way to set for the arguments for the existence and revelation of this God.

The Sexual Revolution and the Rise of the Modern Self

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 04:00:39 -0400

Dr. Carl R. Trueman joins us to speak about his significant new book, The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution (Crossway), in which he addresses the factors undergirding modern culture’s obsession with identity. Sexual identity in particular has dominated public discourse since the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court decision in 2015. Tracing influential thought from Augustine to Marx and beyond, Trueman explains the historical and intellectual phenomenon of the modern conception selfhood. Trueman writes,

My aim is to explain how and why a certain notion of the self has come to dominate the culture of the West, why this self finds its most obvious manifestation in the transformation of sexual mores, and what the wider implications of this transformation are and may well be in the future.

Dr. Trueman is professor of biblical and religious studies at Grove City College. He is an esteemed church historian and previously served as the William E. Simon Fellow in Religion and Public Life at Princeton University. Trueman has authored or edited more than a dozen books, including The Creedal Imperative, Luther on the Christian Life, and Histories and Fallacies. Trueman is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman

A Critical Edition of the Westminster Confession of Faith

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 04:00:53 -0400

Dr. John Bower speaks about constructing a critical edition of the Westminster Confession of Faith using four historical authoritative texts and several other sources. Bower has done a tremendous service to the church and the academy. Both will benefit greatly from his careful scholarship. With Chad Van Dixhoorn, Dr. Bower is co-editor of Principal Documents of the Westminster Assembly published by Reformation Heritage Books. The Westminster Confession of Faith: A Critical Text and Introduction appears in that series.

Participants: Camden Bucey, John Bower

Vos Group #66 — God’s Relation to Time and Eternity

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 243–244 of Geerhardus Vos’s book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss the prophet’s view of God’s relation to time and space. In terms of God’s relation to time and space, two relations occur. What we have to affirm first of all is that God is everywhere present in all of his fullness. But Vos speaks of a special relation to Zion (on earth) and heaven itself as the temple dwelling of God. Two things help us grasp the significance of this: the notion of covenant and the location of the fellowship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

A Critical Biography of Herman Bavinck

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. James Eglinton speaks about the life and thought of Herman Bavinck. Eglinton has written a superb biography of Bavinck that has been published by Baker Academic. Bavinck and other Dutch people of his era were accustomed to chronicling their lives. Herman Bavinck’s father wrote an autobiography. Herman wrote in journals. These became primary sources for James Eglinton as he wrote a critical biography of Bavinck.

The Bavinck family faced questions about their place in society. Where does an orthodox Calvinist fit in modern society? These questions animated their lives—particularly as they related to monarchical rule and the relationship of the church to the state. In sum, Eglinton describes Herman Bavinck’s life as characterized by two things: conservative Calvinist orthodoxy and active participation in modern society. For Bavinck, these two were not mutually exclusive. He was a Calvinist who was simultaneously a man of his own day.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Eglinton, Jim Cassidy

A History of Dispensationalism

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Michael J. Glodo, Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology and Dean of the Chapel at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida, speaks about dispensationalism and its development in light of several historical, sociological, and theological contexts. Rev. Glodo is the author of “Dispensationalism” in Covenant Theology: Biblical, Theological, and Historical Perspectives edited by Guy Prentiss Waters, J. Nicholas Reid, and John R. Muether.

John Nelson Darby (1800–1882) introduced dispensationalism as a theological system, which bears several key characteristics, including an insistence upon a “literal” hermeneutic or “plain reading” of the biblical text in addition to separate divine purposes for Israel and the church. Yet several features of “classic dispensationalism” have since been modified or altogether eliminated. Glodo remarks that “from its beginnings until the middle of the twentieth century, dispensationalism grew rapidly in popularity and underwent several refinements.”

A Diaconal Ministry “Proportioned in Number”

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

C. N. Willborn describes the importance of a faithful and active diaconal ministry within the church. Building upon contributions from Thomas Chalmers and other insightful theologians, Willborn describes a ministry “proportioned in number,” or segmented in order that the diaconate may faithfully carry out its duties both to the brotherhood and the neighborhood. Willborn argues “for a thoroughly active office, defined, designed, and dispatched along Biblical lines.”

Rev. Dr. Willborn is pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and adjunct professor of Historical Theology at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He is the author of many works on history and theology, including the focus of this conversation, “The Gospel Work of the Diaconate: A Ministry ‘Proportioned in Number’” in The Confessional Presbyterian, volume 10 (2014): 23–32.

The Resurrection in Acts

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Brandon Crowe speaks about the centrality of the resurrection in the book of Acts. Dr. Crowe has written The Hope of Israel: The Resurrection of Christ in the Acts of the Apostles (Baker Academic, 2020) in which he explores the historical, theological, and canonical implications of Jesus’s resurrection in early Christianity and helps readers more clearly understand the purpose of Acts in the context of the New Testament canon.

Other episodes with Brandon Crowe

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey

History and Theology in the Thought of John Witherspoon

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

John Witherspoon (1723–1794) was an eighteenth-century Scottish-American Presbyterian minister and signer of the United States Declaration of Independence. In this episode, we speak with Robert S. Null about Witherspoon’s theology and understanding of history through four unstudied manuscripts of his lectures at the College of New Jersey (later Princeton University). In his dissertation, John Witherspoon’s Forgotten “Lectures on History and Chronology”: Recognizing the Important Role of History in the Development of His Thought and Theology for Navigating Eighteenth-Century Late Protestant Scholasticism, Revivalism, and Enlightenment, Null writes:

Witherspoon had to contend with the legacy of late seventeenth century Protestant scholasticism, newer forms of revivalism, and more rationalistic developments in eighteenth century enlightenment thought. A detailed but fading emphasis on the decrees, preparation for grace, and the application of redemption merged with a more secular emphasis on free thought involving induction, empiricism, idealism, and common sense philosophy, as well as challenges from new theological movements in holiness, revivalism, and pietism. Revolutions in politics, science, logic, and theological priorities were frequent and significant. Changes in both the worlds of theology and philosophy would continue throughout the eighteenth century.

The relationship of history to theology became foundational for Witherspoon not simply as an extension of late Protestant scholasticism, an expression of Christian piety, or an excessive reliance on, or aversion toward, a specific enlightenment philosophy. In his writings, theology itself was undergoing change, and specifically in Witherspoon’s case, toward integrating an important awareness of history. This awareness demonstrates the importance of history very early in the rise of Princeton theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Robert Null

Van Til Group #1 — The Defense of the Faith

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In the spirit of our Vos Group episodes, we begin a concurrent venture into Cornelius Van Til’s book, The Defense of the Faith. Carlton Wynne joins Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey to discuss the theology and apologetics of this significant twenty-first century Reformed apologist.

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

The Shape and Shaping of the Book of the Twelve

Fri, 28 Aug 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Will Wood, Assistant Professor of Old Testament at RTS Atlanta, discusses the shaping of the book of the twelve, the canonical collection of the minor prophets (Hosea through Malachi). The Book of the Twelve is a grouping of twelve individual prophets into a single intertextually related and thematically integrated work that spans the course of a few centuries and can be appropriately called a “book.” How did this book take shape? What was the historical process by which it came to the canonical form we have today?

Handout

Participants: Camden Bucey, Will Wood

Vos Group Excursus — Grace and Glory: Sermons of Geerhardus Vos

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In 1922, Reformed Press published six sermons by Geerhardus Vos in a volume titled Grace and Glory. In 1994, Banner of Truth published the same collection with ten additional sermons, which were discovered and edited by James Dennison. Banner has now brought this full collection back into print with a new edition: Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached at Princeton Seminary.

Danny Olinger, author of Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theologian, Confessional Presbyterian, joins us to speak about Vos’s sermons in their biblical context as well as the historical context in which they were written and delivered. Rev. Olinger is General Secretary for the Committee on Christian Education of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.

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

Karl Barth and Idealism

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Jim Cassidy speaks about Karl Barth and his relationship with idealism. On the heels of Lane Tipton’s recent course, Introduction to the Theology and Apologetics of Cornelius Van Til, the panel compares and contrasts Barth’s ontology and doctrine of revelation in the Christ-event with Van Til’s critique of idealism and warnings of correlativism.

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

Vos Group #65 — The Nature and Attributes of God

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pp. 238–243 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to speak about the Old Testament prophets and their understanding of the nature and attributes of God. Vos affirms that God is Spirit. This brings into view not that God is immaterial per se, as Vos notes, but rather the “energy of life in God.” This is critical to appreciate. That God is Spirit reminds us that while he is immutable in his being, he is impassible in his actions.

He acts, and his actions condition all that he acts upon, without he himself being mutually conditioned by that on which he acts. That is, God is pure act in the sense that he immutably and sovereignly acts in such a way that he is not acted upon, and in that action, changed by the creation on which and in which his actions terminate. Vos says in his Reformed Dogmatics, there is no time distinction in God, yet his acts fall in time. And they fall in time as the acts of an all-conditioning God, who is living and active, but in a way that he is not acted upon or changed by the creature.

The Westminster Shorter Catechism states that God is a Spirit, “infinite, eternal and unchangeable.” This helpfully distills the essence of what Vos is after. While immutable, God is active and living and all of his acts express his immutable being and purpose. So, a key here is that immutability and spirituality require one another: God is immutable in his life; immutable in his purposes; and his agency in creation expresses immutable but living and acting Trinitarian persons, who are exhaustively and entirely the one true God.

Isaiah 57:15 is a key text: “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.’”

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Call to Worship and Benediction

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Glen Clary speaks about the biblical basis and covenantal context of the call to worship and benediction. These elements of worship are rooted in Christ’s work on behalf of his covenant people.

In the call to worship, God calls his people to have covenant communion with him in his heavenly temple. He calls us to enter his house—to draw near to him—to have communion with him.

The benediction is the bestowal of the covenant blessing by the successful probationer. Had Adam obeyed, he would have received for himself and for all his posterity the covenant blessing. The covenant blessing would be given to those whom he represented in the covenant of works on the basis of his obedience. Now, Christ as redeemer and mediator of the covenant, the obedient federal head (successful probationer) receives and bestows the blessings of the covenant.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

Discussing a New Course: Introduction to the Theology and Apologetics of Cornelius Van Til

Fri, 24 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we discuss a new online course wherein Dr. Lane G. Tipton teaches a thorough introduction to the theology and innovative apologetic method of Cornelius Van Til (1895–1987), a pioneer in a distinctly Reformed approach to defending the faith.

This course investigates the context, structure, and significance of Van Til’s theology and apologetics. It is designed to introduce students to the main influences and fundamental concerns of Van Til’s theological approach to apologetics. Topics include a general introduction, Trinity, image of God, covenant, revelation, worldview, antithesis, common grace, and idealism. Special attention is given to the programmatic deep structures of Van Til’s thought, distinguishing his views from Roman Catholicism, Barth, and Evangelical approaches to theology and apologetics.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Lane G. Tipton

Covenant Theology in Hebrews

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Jeremy Boothby speaks about covenant theology through the biblical-theological lens of the book of Hebrews. In so doing, he compares and contrasts 1689 Federalism and other particular baptist approaches to covenant theology with that of confessional Reformed covenant theology. Following the author of the epistle to the Hebrews, Boothby gets to the heart of the difference between particular baptists and Reformed paedobaptists.

The matter hinges on the present life-setting of the New Covenant Church in the wilderness. The author of Hebrews compares the church, which is presently in the New Covenant, to the first generation of Israelites in the wilderness. They were on their pilgrimage and had not yet entered their promised rest. As such, there was a real possibility of apostasy from the covenant. Likewise, the New Covenant Church has not yet entered the New Heavens and New Earth, to which earthly Canaan pointed. The author encourages covenant members to strive to enter their rest, not to fall away as they follow their forerunner and heavenly high priest, Jesus Christ.

Rev. Boothby is pastor of Christ Covenant OPC in Amarillo, Texas.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeremy Boothby

Justification in James

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Biblical exegetes have long discussed the relationship of justification in James to that of Paul. On the surface, James 2:24 appears even to contradict many of the key Pauline passages that speak clearly of justification as occurring by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone and not by works of the law. In this episode, we discuss the different uses of the words “justification” and “justify” in James, specifically, and in the Bible, generally.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington

Vos Group #64 — The Prophets and Monotheism

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pp. 235–238 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to speak about the Old Testament prophets and varying views of monotheism. The prophetic era begins with Samuel and the introduction of kingship in the theocracy, and the fundamental conflict between the prophets and the kings is between those who are fundamentally theocentric and those who are fundamentally political.

And the kings concerns, representative in Saul, is a carnal, earthly concern to maintain political power. The kings long to maintain the appearance of royal splendor. They do not have a fundamentally theocentric concern about them. The increasing propension of the kings is to gain and maintain political power, outward glory, and the prestige and praise of man. Saul is the prototype of this thing. The theocracy, for the kings who follow in the pattern of Saul, do not perceive the spiritual and theocentric core of the kingdom of God. And they wind up persecuting not only David, but as Stephen makes clear, they persecute and even kill the prophets. But in Isaiah we find the theocentric concern coming to its full fruition in the Old Testament.

Vos notes that there are three unique features that stand out with Isaiah, and these, taken together, comprise the eschatological intensification of the prophetic office—these become a prolepsis of the nature of the true religion that will come by the Spirit of the ascended Messiah. First, a vivid perception of divine majesty. Second, transcendence and majesty of Jehovah in contrast to the creature. Third, unqualified service to the divine glory, which is a common theme pre- and post-exile.

The monotheism of the later prophets such as Isaiah is a sign of the great advancement of the kingdom toward the original heavenly telos that was held out to Adam under the covenant of works. The monotheism of the later prophets such as Isaiah is the movement toward the great realization of the heavenly kingdom in the person and work of Christ.

As we discuss monotheism it is not the “ethical monotheism” of the critics but the eschatological monotheism of the true religion whose center of gravity is God’s glory in heaven that comes into view. That is the fundamental concern—the central importance—of the development of monotheism. The “gods” are absolutely powerless to deliver from judgment on earth or to enable entrance into the glory-heaven of Jehovah.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Covenant of Works

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

We discuss the doctrine of the covenant of works, including its biblical basis (Gen. 2:15–17 et al) as well as common objections to it. The Reformed tradition has spoken of the relationship between God and Adam as a covenantal relationship. The Westminster Shorter Catechism 12 asks:

Q. 12. What special act of providence did God exercise toward man in the estate wherein he was created?
A. When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon the pain of death.

Without the covenant of works, we cannot rightly understand man’s relationship to God in the garden. Neither can we understand the gospel, for the work of our Lord Jesus Christ was a redeeming work necessitated by the fall into sin.

Discussion handout Download

Romans 13 and Protestant Resistance Theory

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

William Reddinger speaks about strands of resistance theory in the American Revolution, considering Lockean, Continental, and Anglo interpretations of Romans 13. Dr. Reddinger has authored “The American Revolution, Romans 13, and the Anglo Tradition of Reformed Protestant Resistance Theory” in the Summer 2016 issue of American Political Thought.

Some scholars argue that the theology of the American Revolution was fundamentally Lockean and largely incompatible with Christianity, a view that this article calls the Lockean view; more recently, others who advocate what this article calls the Lockean–Reformed view argue that the American Revolution was both Lockean and Reformed and that there is no incompatibility between these sources. This article critiques the Lockean–Reformed view and argues that there were two traditions of resistance theory in early Reformed Protestantism—the Continental tradition and the Anglo tradition. While these two traditions were not monolithic, the distinction is helpful in understanding how the theology of resistance during the American founding was different from the Continental tradition of resistance. It also allows one to be aware of the strengths and weaknesses both of the Lockean view and of the Lockean–Reformed view.
—Article abstract

Dr. Reddinger is Associate Professor of Government, History, and Criminal Justice at Regent University. Prior to coming to Regent, he taught political science at Wheaton College in Illinois and at South Texas College. He received his undergraduate degree from Grove City College in Pennsylvania before completing his M.A. and Ph.D. in Political Science at Northern Illinois University, where his studies focused on the history of political philosophy and American political thought.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, William Reddinger

Vos Group #63 — The Prophets and the Nature of God

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to pp. 234–235 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to speak about the nature and attributes of God as understand by the Old Testament prophets.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Philosophy of David Hume

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. James N. Anderson speaks about the philosophy of David Hume, one of the foremost thinkers of the Western tradition. Hume is well known for his influential system of philosophical empiricism, skepticism, and naturalism. Throughout his work, Hume developed a naturalistic science of man that examined the psychological basis of human nature.

Dr. Anderson is the Carl W. McMurray Professor of Theology and Philosophy and Academic Dean (Global and New York) of Reformed Theological Seminary. He is the author of David Hume (Great Thinkers) published by P&R Publishing, What’s Your Worldview: An Interactive Approach to Life’s Big Questions, and Paradox in Christian Theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Anderson, Jim Cassidy

Voetius on God’s Single, Absolutely Simple Essence

Fri, 29 May 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Editor, teacher, and translator, Ryan M. Hurd speaks about the theology of Gisbertus Voetius. Hurd has translated a significant disputation of Voetius’ published as “Gisbertus Voetius: God’s Single, Absolutely Simple Essence” in The Confessional Presbyterian Journal (Volume 15, 2019).

Gisbertus Voetius (1589–1676) was a Dutch theologian born in Heusden, Netherlands, and educated at Leiden. He became a professor of theology at the University of Utrecht and wrote several significant works, including Politica ecclesiastica (3 volumes, published 1663–1676) and Selectae disputationes (theologicae) (5 volumes, published 1648–1669).

In his treatment, Voetius mediates between two of the major Medieval schools of thought—Thomistic and Scotistic. Hurd writes,

Yet the early modern period saw the rise of the Socinians and Vorstians, and this was to the dismay of all orthodox regardless of their communion. The emergence of this heterodox movement met with immediate response that would last until the eclipse of Reformed orthodoxy in the darkness of the modern age. In our own context today, we observe similarly that among the Reformed there are likewise those who uphold orthodoxy and affirm divine simplicity, and likewise those who have emerged and put themselves against it. As a historical testimony, Voetius’s disputation underlines several points to both sides.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Ryan Hurd

The Theology of Benedict XVI

Fri, 22 May 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Gregg Allison and Dr. Carl Trueman speak about the theology of Benedict XVI, pope emeritus of the Roman Catholic Church. Allison’s article, “Faith, Hope, and Love” and Trueman’s article, “Is the Pope (Roman) Catholic?,” are published in The Theology of Benedict XVI: A Protestant Appreciation edited by Tim Perry and published by Lexham Press.

Dr. Allison is Professor of Christian Theology at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author or co-author of several books, including Roman Catholic Theology and Practice: An Evangelical Assessment and The Unfinished Reformation: What Unites and Divides Catholics and Protestants after 500 Years. He appeared on Christ the Center episodes 363 and 461.

Dr. Trueman is Professor of Biblical and Religious Studies at Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania. He hosts the Mortification of Spin podcast with Aimee Byrd and Todd Pruitt. He is also the author of several books, including The Creedal Imperative and Luther on the Christian Life. Dr. Trueman has joined us many times before.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Gregg Allison, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #62 — The Content of the Prophetic Revelation

Fri, 15 May 2020 04:00:00 -0400

We turn to page 234 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to speak about the understanding of monotheism which the biblical prophets possessed. On pages 206–211 of the book, Vos dealt with the modernist conception of the issue, adding a footnote that his positive treatment would be saved for later. Now we arrive at that later portion. As we begin to address this new section, we revisit some of the ground we covered in Vos Group #55, while expanding that material.

On pages 206–211, Vos gives us the key conception of the modernist critics:

The prophets, from Amos and Hosea onwards, are credited with the discovery and establishment of the great truth of ethical monotheism, in which the distinctive and permanent value of Old Testament religion is to be found.

To explain this as crisply as possible, Vos is saying that a particular ethical conception of Jehovah gives rise to the monotheism of the later prophets in the 8th century. It is a monotheism of a particular kind–a monotheism of a specific variety. There is a concrete, historical, situated, ethical dilemma that forges an ethical conception of Jehovah that otherwise would not be formed.

In contrast, Vos emphasizes that the prophets are God-centered. They are religious—meaning they find their delight in spiritual (Spirit-wrought) communion with God. The ethical aspect of monotheism is itself subservient to the glory of God and delight in fellowship with God.

The “prophetic orientation” does not view God as a means to an end, but rather delighting in God himself, as he has revealed himself as sovereign Judge and condescended Lord and Savior of his covenant people. The prophets delight in the God they proclaim and do not re-conceive him as a means to an end other than the glory of God himself as the chief end and delight of his people.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Divine Simplicity and the Old Testament

Fri, 08 May 2020 04:00:00 -0400

James Duguid speaks about the doctrine of divine simplicity and its roots in the Old Testament. While the pages of the Old Testament are not typically the first place one would go to build the case for this orthodox doctrine, Duguid demonstrates how the uniqueness of the biblical account establishes a foundation for understanding the Lord who reveals himself through it.

Duguid is the author of “Divine Simplicity, the Ancient Near East, and the Old Testament” in The Lord Is One: Reclaiming Divine Simplicity edited by Joseph Minisch and Onsi A. Kamel and published by The Davenant Press.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Duguid, Jeff Waddington

Catholic Theology and the Novels of Graham Greene

Fri, 01 May 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Danny Olinger speaks about the theology of Graham Greene, regarded by many as one of the leading English novelists of the twentieth century. Combining literary acclaim with widespread popularity, Greene acquired a reputation early in his lifetime as a major writer of novels so-called “Catholic novels,” as well as political and espionage thrillers. Twice, he was shortlisted for the Nobel Prize for Literature. In his works, Greene explored the ambivalent moral and political issues of the modern world, often through a Catholic perspective.

Rev. Olinger is General Secretary for the Committee on Christian Education of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. He is the author of Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theology, Confessional Presbyterian.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

The Distance between God and the Creature

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 04:00:00 -0400

After having created Adam in his image and placing him in the Garden of Eden, God entered into a covenant with him (Gen. 2:16–17). In Westminster Confession of Faith 7.1, the divines wrote,

The distance between God and the creature is so great, that although reasonable creatures do owe obedience unto him as their Creator, yet they could never have any fruition of him as their blessedness and reward, but by some voluntary condescension on God’s part, which he hath been pleased to express by way of covenant.

There are several important things to note in this passage. First, upon creation and prior to the establishment of the covenant, Adam already knew God and owed him obedience merely from the fact that he was created in God’s image. God did not owe Adam anything, and Adam could in no way place God into his debt. Second, the type of fruition that the covenant affords is that of God as “blessedness and reward.” Adam already owed God personal, perfect, exact and entire obedience, though God voluntarily condescended to establish the covenant of works by which Adam could consummately come to know God in glory. In other words, he could ascend God’s holy hill (Psalm 24) through the gratuitous means God provided.

Westminster Confession of Faith 7.1 is not describing covenant as the means by which God ontologically or metaphysically condescends to creation. God does not assume new properties, attributes, or characteristics to do so. Neither does the confession speak of the covenant as the means by which Adam comes to know God generally—as if Adam would not even know that God existed apart from a covenant. The covenant is the means by which he may come to know God specifically as his blessedness and reward.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Justin Martyr on the Eucharist and Lord’s Day Worship

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we continue our discussion of Justin Martyr’s account of ancient Christian worship, focusing this time on the Lord’s Supper (eucharist) and Lord’s Day worship.

Justin Martyr wrote an early account of ancient Christian worship. It was written by a believer for an unbeliever. He does not assume that his intended reader—the Emperor Antoninus Pius (138–161)—knows anything about Christian worship. Second, while Pliny describes the worship practices of the Christians in Pontus, Justin describes the liturgical customs of the church in Rome. Justin lived and worshiped in Rome, but he didn’t convert in Rome. He most likely converted to Christianity in Ephesus around 130 A.D. So he was familiar with the liturgical customs of both Western and Eastern Christians. Third, Justin’s account is descriptive not prescriptive. It’s not a church order (e.g. Didache, Apostolic Tradition). It is simply a description of what Christians were already doing not what Justin thought they ought to do.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington

Justin Martyr and Worship in the Ancient Church

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In his first apology (ca. 150–155 A.D.), Justin Martyr wrote an early account of ancient Christian worship, describing ancient practices regarding the sacraments and Lord’s Day worship. It was written to an unbeliever, and therefore Justin does not assume that his intended reader—the Emperor Antoninus Pius (138–161)—knows anything about Christian worship. Moreover, while Pliny describes the worship practices of the Christians in Pontus, Justin describes the liturgical customs of the church in Rome. Justin lived and worshiped in Rome, but he didn’t convert in Rome. He most likely converted to Christianity in Ephesus around 130 A.D. So he was familiar with the liturgical customs of both Western and Eastern Christians. It is also important to understand that Justin’s account is descriptive not prescriptive. It is not a church order (e.g. Didache, Apostolic Tradition). It is simply a description of what Christians were already doing not what Justin thought they ought to do.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington

Pliny the Younger and Worship in the Ancient Church

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 04:00:00 -0400

What was worship like in the early church? Did it differ significantly from our present practices? A letter written by a Roman official in 112 AD provides a window into these ancient Christian liturgical practices.

Pliny the Younger was appointed governor of Bithynia in 111 AD by the Emperor Trajan (98–117). Trajan knew that there was social unrest in that province, with a growing number of political factions causing divisions within the city. Among other things, he tasked Pliny with dissolving all associations or clubs in service of keeping the peace. This led him into a quandary regarding the Christians.

In one of the cities, trouble of some kind had arisen regarding the Christians, who were in several cases brought into court and accused of atheism, sexual immorality, incest, and even cannibalism. Pliny the Younger’s letter offers a window into the liturgical practices of ancient Christians and how they were often misunderstood by the world.

Lecture handout Download

Warfield’s Doctrine of Inspiration

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 04:00:00 -0400

In 1894, B. B. Warfield published an article in which he compared the views of the Westminster divines and the Reformers on the mode of inspiration. According to Warfield, the Reformers argued for a mode of concursus while the Protestant Scholastics argued for dictation. Dr. Jeff Stivason analyzes this characterization, speaking to Warfield’s historical context and his understanding of progressive orthodoxy.

Jeff Stivason is pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church (RPCNA) in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania and professor-elect at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh. His article, “Is Warfield’s Claim True that Calvin is Better than Westminster on Inspiration?” is available in the Westminster Theological Journal Vol. 81, No. 2 (Fall 2019), pp. 279–293.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Stivason, Jim Cassidy

All That Is in God

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 04:00:00 -0400

James Dolezal discusses his book All That Is in God: Evangelical Theology and the Challenge of Classical Christian Theism (Reformation Heritage Books, 2017). Dr. Dolezal serves as associate professor in the school of divinity at Cairn University in Langhorne, Pennsylvania.

In this conversation, and the book that guides it, Dolezal addresses the doctrines of classical theism as well as contemporary models of theology proper, which reject, compromise, or otherwise diminish the classical formulations. Interacting with primary sources from theologians such as Bruce Ware, John Frame, and K. Scott Oliphint, Dolezal charitably offers a critique while reaffirming that all that is in God is God.

Echoes of Exodus

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Bryan Estelle joins us to speak about Echoes of Exodus: Tracing a Biblical Motif (IVP Academic, 2018). Israel’s exodus from Egypt is the Bible’s enduring emblem of deliverance. It is the archetypal anvil on which the scriptural language of deliverance is shaped. More than just an epic moment, the exodus shapes the telling of Israel’s and the church’s gospel. Estelle traces the motif as it unfolds throughout Scripture.

Dr. Estelle is professor of Old Testament at Westminster Seminary California in Escondido, California. He is also the author of Salvation through Judgment and Mercy: The Gospel According to Jonah. He has contributed essays to Covenant, Justification, and Pastoral Ministry: Essays by the Faculty of Westminster Seminary California and The Law Is Not of Faith: Essays on Works and Grace in the Mosaic Covenant.

Participants: Bryan Estelle, Camden Bucey

Vos Group #61: The Mode of Communication of the Prophecy

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 05:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 230–233 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to speak about the mode by which the Lord delivers his message to the prophet. Man is made in the image of God, which means he has a special capacity to commune with God. Vos marvels at the way in which divine speech is transmitted to those made in his image. God’s word is communicated in servant form without evacuating the message of any of its divine characteristics, such as inerrancy or infallibility. The Holy Spirit works in the prophet in such a way as to inspire and superintend the entire activity of the prophet—whether in speech or inscripturation.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Kingdom of God

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. S. M. Baugh joins us to speak about his book, The Majesty on High: An Introduction to the Kingdom of God in the New Testament. Beginning with a definition of the kingdom of God based on the new creation, Baugh introduces the reader to the kingdom and its foundational issues.

Dr. Baugh is professor of New Testament at Westminster Seminary California in Escondido, California. He is also the author of Ephesians: Evangelical Exegetical Commentary (EEC).

Participants: Camden Bucey, S. M. Baugh

With All Your Heart

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. A. Craig Troxel speaks about With All Your Heart: Orienting Your Mind, Desires, and Will toward Christ (Crossway, 2020). Whereas contemporary culture identifies the “heart” with feelings and emotions, Craig Troxel speaks about the range of uses of the word “heart” in the Bible. The heart knows, desires, and chooses. This fuller conception of “heart” helps us understand our battle with sin and the redemption that has been wrought by Jesus Christ.

Dr. Troxel is professor of practical theology at Westminster Seminary California. He previously served as pastor of Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, Illinois and Calvary Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Glenside, Pennsylvania.

Participants: A. Craig Troxel, Camden Bucey

Politics after Christendom

Fri, 14 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0400

David VanDrunen speaks about his forthcoming book, Politics After Christendom (Zondervan Academic), reflecting upon the status and responsibilities of Christians in their contemporary pluralistic political communities. Dr. VanDrunen presents a biblical-theological model of political engagement and exploring themes such as race, religious liberty, justice, authority, and civil resistance.

David VanDrunen is Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary California. He is the author and editor of several books, including Aquinas Among the Protestants, God’s Glory Alone: The Majestic Heart of Christian Faith and Life, Natural Law and the Two Kingdoms: A Study in the Development of Reformed Social Thought, and Divine Covenants and Moral Order: A Biblical Theology of Natural Law.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David VanDrunen

Vos Group Excursus: John 20:1–18 — Rabboni

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 05:00:00 -0400

We take a brief break from our regular schedule in Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, to discuss Vos’s sermon “Rabboni,” on John 20:16. This sermon is found in Grace & Glory, a collection of Vos’s sermons preached at the chapel of Princeton Seminary.

John 20:1–18 (ESV)

Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. ²So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” ³So Peter went out with the other disciple, and they were going toward the tomb. ⁴Both of them were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. ⁵And stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. ⁶Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen cloths lying there, ⁷and the face cloth, which had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen cloths but folded up in a place by itself. ⁸Then the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; ⁹for as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead. ¹⁰Then the disciples went back to their homes.

¹¹But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb. ¹²And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. ¹³They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” ¹⁴Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. ¹⁵Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” ¹⁶Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). ¹⁷Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” ¹⁸Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Abraham Kuyper’s Public Theology

Fri, 31 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Jordan J. Ballor, senior research fellow and director of publishing for the Acton Institute, joins us to speak about Abraham Kuyper’s public theology. Dr. Ballor is a general editor of Abraham Kuyper’s Collected Works on Public Theology published by Lexham Press. Kuyper was something of a polymath/renaissance man. Along with being an influential theologian and also a journalist, he served as Prime Minister of the Netherlands between 1901 and 1905. He established the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands, which upon its foundation became the second largest Reformed denomination in the country behind the state-supported Dutch Reformed Church.

Jordan J. Ballor (Dr. theol., University of Zurich; PhD, Calvin Theological Seminary) is a senior research fellow and director of publishing at the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion & Liberty. He is also a postdoctoral researcher in theology and economics at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam as part of the “What Good Markets Are Good For” project.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Jordan Ballor

Hebrew Discourse Analysis

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Matthew Patton speaks about his book, Basics of Hebrew Discourse: A Guide to Working with Hebrew Prose and Poetry (Zondervan Academic, 2019). Dr. Patton is pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Vandalia, Ohio.

This book, written by Matthew H. Patton, Frederic Clarke Putnam, and Miles V. Van Pelt, is a syntax resource for intermediate Hebrew students. This Basics book introduces students to the principles and exegetical benefits of discourse analysis (text linguistics) when applied to biblical Hebrew prose and poetry. Where standard Hebrew reference grammars have traditionally worked to describe the relationship between words and phrases within discrete clauses (micro syntax), discourse analysis works to describe those relationships that exist between clauses and texts (macro syntax).

This resource fills a needed gap for intermediate Hebrew students and gives them the tools to work with Hebrew syntax on the macro level. Professors and pastors working with Hebrew will also find this one-of-a-kind resource highly valuable.

While students of Hebrew will certainly gain from Patton’s work, listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the Bible and tools for studying it in the English language as well.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Matthew Patton

The Wonderful Works of God

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Carlton Wynne and Charles Williams speak about the new edition of Herman Bavinck’s The Wonderful Works of God published by Westminster Seminary Press. The book was first published in English under the title, Our Reasonable Faith. The new edition is re-typeset and includes an introduction by Dr. Wynne, Bavinck’s original introduction translated by Nathaniel Gray Sutanto, and helpful indices collected by Charles Williams.

Carlton Wynne is assistant professor of systematic theology and apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA.

Charles Williams is pastor of Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, Illinois.

A Christian View of Economics

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0400

Shawn Ritenour, Professor of Economics at Grove City College, speaks about the basics of economics and the Christian principles upon which the study must be based. Dr. Ritenour is the author of Foundations of Economics: A Christian View (Wipf & Stock).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Shawn Ritenour

Vos Group #60 — The Intra-Mental State of the Prophet

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 05:00:00 -0400

We turn to pages 224–229 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to speak about the intra-mental state of the prophet, by which Vos means to inquire into “how the soul felt and reacted under the things shown within the vision” (p. 224).

Far too much attention has been given to what is represented by the Greek term ecstasis. The term served first as a translation of the Hebrew tardemah (cf. Gen. 2:21 with Adam and Genesis 15:12 with Abram). In Adam’s case, there is no visionary state. In Abram’s case, there is such a vision (expound the theology of the theophany). But tardemah does not throw any light on Abram’s state of mind.

Ecstasis, on the other hand, has a very definite conception in Greek consciousness that leads in the direction of error. That conception is that of “insanity or mania” and was applied to the oracular process—the process of receiving visions and the resultant state in which it put the seer-prophet. This led to a close association between the prophet and some feature of instability—some manic tendency that seems inherent to the process of receiving a vision.

Vos points us to God’s inspired, inerrant, and infallible revelation in history, which does not bypass the human mind or allow the recipient to escape his humanity, but elevates him to greater communion with God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Highlights from 2019

Fri, 27 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0400

Since Christ the Center began nearly twelve years ago, we have taken time to look back on the highlights of the year. Given that we now post highlights from each episode every week we have taken an analytic approach. These are this year’s top ten clips from Christ the Center as determined by YouTube views.

Participants: Alan Strange, Bracy Hill, Brian DeJong, Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Christopher Watkin, Cornelis Venema, Glen Clary, Will Wood

Puritan: All of Life to the Glory of God

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0400

David Woollin of Reformation Heritage Books and Matthew Robinson of Media Gratiae discuss Puritan: All of Life to the Glory of God. Centered around a feature-length film, the full box set includes books, thirty-five Sunday school lessons, and other resources for education.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Woollin, Jeff Waddington, Matthew Robinson

Vos Group #59 — Revelation through Showing and Seeing

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we turn to pages 220–223 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to discuss the reception of divine revelation through showing and seeing. The prophets were given visions and heard the Lord and angelic beings speaking to them audibly. We explore the significance of this fact with regard to our understanding of God’s progressive revelation in history.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Karl Rahner

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0400

Jeff Waddington, Glen Clary, and Lane Tipton speak with Camden Bucey about his book, Karl Rahner, and contemporary issues regarding Rahner, modern Roman Catholicism, and contemporary theology.

Arguably the most influential Catholic theologian of the twentieth century, Karl Rahner (1904–1984) developed a theology that has influenced much of post-Vatican II Catholicism and its modern inclusivist approach to missions.

Despite his impact, little has been written on Rahner from a Reformed perspective. In this introduction and critique, Camden Bucey guides readers to an understanding of Rahner’s theology as a whole. Beginning with Rahner’s trinitarian theology, he moves through each of the traditional departments of theology to show how Rahner developed one basic idea from beginning to end.

Rahner set out to explain how God communicates himself to humanity, whom he created specifically for the purpose of fellowship with him. Once we trace this thread, we gain a deeper understanding of his thought and its reach today.

Buy the Book

Endorsements for the Book

“If you want to understand present-day Roman Catholicism, you must come to terms with Vatican II (1962–65). Everything that Rome now teaches and does is filtered through it. But if you want to understand Vatican II itself, you need to know about Karl Rahner. . . . Part of the confused and naive attitude of contemporary evangelicals toward Rome depends on the lack of awareness of both Vatican II and Karl Rahner. This lucid book is a helpful introduction to this seminal Roman Catholic theologian whose language contains all the key Christian words (e.g., Trinity, Christ, humanity), but whose meaning is significantly different from that of straightforward biblical teaching. It is time that Reformed theologians do their homework in grasping what is at stake with contemporary Roman Catholicism.”

—Leonardo De Chirico, Pastor, Breccia di Roma; Lecturer, Historical Theology, IFED, Padova, Italy; Director, Reformanda Initiative

“Roman Catholic apologists often boast about their church’s antiquity but seldom mention modern Roman Catholic theology, which often sounds as modern as liberal Protestantism. Karl Rahner, one of the most influential Roman Catholic theologians of the twentieth century, whose prominence was evident at the Second Vatican Council, is one of the best examples of Roman Catholicism’s modernity. Camden Bucey’s fair-minded and careful assessment of Rahner’s theology is valuable in itself, but doubly so for anyone wanting an introduction to modern Roman Catholicism’s own contribution to liberal Christian theology.”

—D. G. Hart, Distinguished Associate Professor of History, Hillsdale College

“Though Karl Rahner is among the most significant Roman Catholic theologians of the twentieth century, he is little known (and seldom read) by evangelical and Reformed theologians. Camden Bucey’s fine study offers an excellent summary of Rahner’s Trinitarian theology that promises to redress this problem. He not only provides a helpful explanation of Rahner’s well-known Trinitarian axiom (‘the “economic” Trinity is the “immanent” Trinity’), but also locates it within the broader context of Rahner’s anthropocentric theology. While Bucey critically engages Rahner’s theology from a Reformed perspective, he does so throughout in a careful, irenic, and constructive fashion.”

—Cornelis P. Venema, President and Professor of Doctrinal Studies, Mid-America Reformed Seminary

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Lane G. Tipton

Bavinck’s Christian Worldview

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 05:00:21 -0400

James Eglinton, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto, and Cory Brock speak about Herman Bavinck’s book, Christian Worldview. Sutanto, Eglinton, and Brock together have translated and edited this work and Crossway has brought it to print for the first time in English.

In the book, Herman Bavinck deals with pastoral concerns that arose within a culture that exchanged modernistic certainty for an appreciation of the unrecognizable and unknowable. Apart from the triune God revealed in Scripture, the culture was grasping for meaning.

Christian Worldview marks a new phase in his theological development. He spent the 1880s and 90s in Kampen wherein his main dialogue partners were liberal Protestants or materialist atheists. In 1900, two years before Bavinck moved to the Free University in Amsterdam, Friedrich Nietzsche died and something of a cult of his ideas developed in the Netherlands. Bavinck sought to address these new theological concerns. He developed a wholistic vision of all things and a wholistic way of living. He situated science and wisdom under a broader category of “worldview.”

Nathaniel Gray Sutanto is a teaching elder at Covenant City Church in Jakarta, Indonesia, and an adjunct faculty member at Westminster Theological Seminary. He is the author of God and Knowledge: Herman Bavinck’s Theological Epistemology.

James Eglinton is the Meldrum Lecturer in Reformed Theology at New College, University of Edinburgh. He is the author of Trinity and Organism, Herman Bavinck on Preaching and Preachers and Bavinck: A Critical Biography (forthcoming from Baker Academic).

Cory C. Brock serves as minister of young adults and college at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, Mississippi, and is an adjunct professor of theology at Belhaven University.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cory Brock, James Eglinton, Jim Cassidy, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Socinianism

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 05:00:26 -0400

Carl Trueman joins us to speak about Socinianism, a non-Trinitarian system of doctrine that arose out of the Radical Reformation and developed in Poland during the 16th and 17th centuries. It was named for the Italian uncle/nephew tandem of Lelio and Fausto Sozzini (Latin: Socinus). While the label is not commonly used in our current historical context, Socinianism developed into contemporary Unitarianism. The Socinian system of doctrine is summarized in The Racovian Catechism.

Dr. Carl Trueman is professor of biblical and religious studies at Grove City College in Grove City, Pennsylvania and the author of numerous books, including The Creedal Imperative. Along with Aimee Byrd and Todd Pruitt, he is a contributor to the Mortification of Spin podcast.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Jim Cassidy

Faithful and Fruitful Ordained Ministry

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 05:00:00 -0400

Healthy churches have healthy elders and deacons. When a local congregation is blessed with faithful officers the results are bountiful (Acts 6:7). William Boekestein and Steven Swets speak about ordained ministry in its manifold dimensions. Boekestein and Swets have edited, Faithful and Fruitful: Essays for Elders and Deacons (Reformed Fellowship), which provides current and future church leaders with an exciting opportunity of personal development.

Like its companion (Called to Serve), this collection of essays offers biblical and practical essays written by seasoned churchmen drawing upon a wealth of leadership knowledge, experience, and wisdom. Engaging study questions for each essay can help readers make the most of the Bible’s instruction and encouragement for those tasked with the responsibility and privilege of leading Christ’s church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Steven Swets, William Boekestein

History and the Life of the Church

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 05:00:18 -0400

Christianity is based in history. Contrary to the teaching of classic liberalism, without the historical fact of Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, Christianity is nothing. Moreover, God has been working in the lives of his people from the very beginning. It is essential that the church would remember God’s dealings with the generations that have gone before in order that she would rightly press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Phil 3:14). Our shared memories and the lessons of the past shape our ecclesiastical context and guide our present practice. Dr. Alan Strange and Rev. Brian De Jong discuss the role of history in the life of the church.

Dr. Strange is professor of church history at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. He is the author of The Imputation of the Active Obedience of Christ in the Westminster Standards and The Doctrine of the Spirituality of the Church in the Ecclesiology of Charles Hodge.

Rev. De Jong is pastor of Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and the author of Honoring the Elderly: A Christian’s Duty to Aging Parents.

Participants: Alan Strange, Brian De Jong, Camden Bucey

The History of Heaven

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 04:00:40 -0400

Lane Tipton speaks about his recent conference addresses and his newly available video course, Foundations of Covenant Theology. In this conversation, we seek to address the question of the Spiritual character of the law as an administration of the Covenant of Grace in the Old Testament and set the priority for the history of heaven as a frame of reference for understanding covenant theology in general and the law’s relationship to the Covenant of Works and Covenant of Grace in particular.

In the beginning in Genesis 1:1, “heavens” is a reference to an archetypal temple-dwelling of God. Before God creates an earthly temple or tabernacle, he makes a heavenly temple dwelling that he fills with the glory of his Spirit and populates with angels. The earth is a replica of these invisible heavens. Prior to a history on earth per se, there is a bona fide history of heaven, which results in the Lord being enthroned in heaven at the end of the creation week. Covenant history now moves forward with the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ to this throne and his return when he will bring his people into this glory.

Order Now

The Law and the Spirit in Old and New Covenants

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 04:00:18 -0400

Glen Clary and Camden Bucey speak about their addresses at the recent theology conference. Glen covered the topic of ascending the mountain of the Lord and the role of the tabernacle and sacrificial system in the Sinai Covenant. Camden compared Galatians 2–4 with Romans 7–8 in order to address Paul’s phrase that “the law is Spiritual” in Romans 7:14.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

The Imputation of Active Obedience in the Westminster Standards

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 04:00:24 -0400

Dr. Alan Strange discusses the Westminster Assembly and the Westminster Standards and whether they affirmed the imputation of Christ’s active obedience as necessary for our justification. Strange has written, The Imputation of the Active Obedience of Christ in the Westminster Standards, which is published by Reformation Heritage Books in their Explorations in Reformed Confessional Theology series.

In the book, Strange gives a survey of church history before and during the Reformation to see how the Assembly relates to the tradition before it. He reflects on the relation of imputation to federal theology, modern challenges to the doctrine, and important rules for interpreting the confessional document.

Dr. Strange is professor of church history at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana.

Links

Strange, “The Imputation of the Active Obedience of Christ“

Participants: Alan Strange, Camden Bucey

Petrus Van Mastricht’s Theoretical and Practical Theology

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 04:00:45 -0400

Todd M. Rester speaks about the theology of Petrus Van Mastricht (1630–1706). Dr. Rester has served as a translator of Mastricht’s Theoretical-Practical Theology, which is being published by Reformation Heritage Books and edited by Dr. Joel Beeke. As of this interview, the first two volumes (Prolegomena and Faith in the Triune God) are available. Mastricht presents a theological method particularly instructive for contemporary readers, treating every theological topic according to exegetical, dogmatic, elenctic, and practical concerns.

Dr. Rester is associate professor of church history at Westminster Theological Seminary in Glenside, Pennsylvania. He has served as a post-doctoral research fellow for the EU European Research Council project and at Queen’s University Belfast.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Todd Rester

Christian Perspectives on Sport Hunting

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 04:00:50 -0400

Dr. Bracy V. Hill, senior lecturer in history at Baylor University, speaks about Christian perspectives on sport hunting. While hunting isn’t the first thing on the minds of biblical scholars, hunting is mentioned and used in numerous metaphors throughout Scripture. One particularly mysterious account is that of Nimrod in Genesis 10. Moreover, the activity of hunting raises many important theological issues, such as man’s relationship to creation, the nature and eschatology of death, and the Christian’s directedness away from a wilderness toward a heavenly city.

Dr. Hill is co-editor of God, Nimrod, and the World: Exploring Christian Perspectives on Sport Hunting in which many of these themes are addressed. Dr. Hill is the author of many article and wrote a dissertation titled, “The Language of Dissent: The Defense of Eighteenth-Century English Dissent in the Works and Sermons of James Peirce.” He also appeared on the Meateater Podcast to discuss many of these themes but to an audience of hunters.

Participants: Bracy Hill, Camden Bucey

Schools of Biblical Criticism

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 04:00:00 -0400

Will Wood discusses various approaches to higher criticism, including source, form, and redaction criticism. This conversation dives into a topic that was covered briefly in an episode on the authorship of Isaiah.

Biblical higher criticism demonstrates several presuppositions that are contrary to orthodox understandings of history and the Bible. For example, predictive prophecy cannot exist. As a result, there is no a priori reason in their view for the Bible to have been written in the form we now possess.

Source criticism seeks to investigate how the various Bible books came into being through the use of disparate sources.

Form criticism does not look for written precursors to biblical texts but to oral precursors. Form critics believe earlier Israelite society was pre-literate. Therefore, sources that supposedly came to comprise the Bible were passed down through different oral forms, or getungen, which help to access the sitz im leben, or setting in life of the community.

Tradition-historical criticism uses methods from both source and form criticism. It distinguishes between traditium, which is the particular tradition content passed down, and traditio, which is the process of transmission.

Redaction criticism asks how the biblical books were brought into the full text we have today. Redaction critics are not merely concerned with oral or written sources, but with the activity of a type of editor, who brought them together.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Will Wood

The Mountain of the Lord

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 04:00:45 -0400

Mountains appear throughout the Bible as an important symbol of God meeting with man. In this episode, we trace the biblical-theological theme of mountains in an effort to understand more deeply God’s plan and purpose in bringing his covenantal people to glory.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington

Vos Group #58 — Revelation through Speech and Hearing

Fri, 13 Sep 2019 04:00:18 -0400

In this episode, we turn to pages 216–220 of Vos’s book, Biblical Theology, to discuss the reception of divine revelation through speech and hearing. Vos treats this topic because, among other things, it lies at the heart of true religion. If God is not speaking, then we do not know him. If it is merely men who speak, we do not know God and therefore are not in a religious bond of covenantal fellowship with him. It is of the essence of true religion to affirm that God speaks and that prophets hear God speaking and then speak that same Word to the church. You cannot have true religion without such supernatural verbal revelation.

This requires that God speaks to the prophet before the prophet spoke. This is critical, since it utterly destroys the liberal theories that locate the actual words in human agency alone, such as the kernel theory we talked about earlier. The speaking of God is not meant in a figurative way, “but in the literal sense it appears in various ways” (p. 217).

Vos next makes a point that the verbal communication from Jehovah is both external and internal, and that internal (to the soul or audible only to the prophet) does not collapse into the “consciousness theology” and the subjectivism of the liberal concept of “revelation” where revelation simply means a heightened moral consciousness or awareness of nearness to the ethical ideal of the prophetic religion.

Vos urges us not to probe the proportion of internal and external revelation, but to accept that both forms come to the prophets, making them bearers of words that have divine authority.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Theology in the Life of the Church

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 04:00:45 -0400

Doctrine is not optional for the body of Christ. Yet, neither is it to be pursued in abstraction. Christians must speak the truth in love, applying that truth in the changing circumstances of daily life.

Using the biblical metaphors of a shepherd and a pilgrim, Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey comment on a variety of challenges in the ministry and the importance of presenting every person mature in Christ (Col. 1:28).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Machen’s Christianity and Liberalism

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 04:00:51 -0400

Darryl G. Hart speaks about J. Gresham Machen’s classic work, Christianity and Liberalism. In becoming familiar the content and historical context of this book, people will gain an understanding not only of twentieth century Presbyterianism but also of global Christianity to a degree. And in contemplating the lessons of this era, people will also be better equipped to meet the challenges that face the contemporary church.

Westminster Seminary Press has issued a new edition of Machen’s classic work and has included new essays by the faculty of Westminster Theological Seminary, the institution Machen founded in 1929 after the reorganization of the board of Princeton Seminary.

Dr. D. G. Hart is Distinguished Associate Professor of History at Hillsdale College and the author or co-author of many books on American religious history, including Seeking a Better Country: 300 Years of American Presbyterianism, Defending the Faith: J. Gresham Machen and the Crisis of Conservative Protestantism in Modern America, and The Selected Shorter Writings of J. Gresham Machen.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Jim Cassidy

Archibald Alexander and Princeton Seminary

Fri, 23 Aug 2019 04:00:17 -0400

Travis Fentiman and James M. Garretson speak about the new book, God, Creation, and Human Rebellion: Lecture Notes of Archibald Alexander from the Hand of Charles Hodge (Reformation Heritage Books). Fentiman discovered the handwritten notes through the Internet Archive and embarked on a crowdsourcing project to transcribe the notes. Dr. Garretson contributed a wonderful introduction.

In this episode we discuss the historical context of American Presbyterianism in the late-eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the unique contribution of Archibald Alexander, and the significance of Princeton Seminary to both American and global presbyterianism.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Garretson, Jeff Waddington, Travis Fentiman

The Authorship of Isaiah

Fri, 16 Aug 2019 04:00:22 -0400

The New Testament cites the book of Isaiah more than any other Old Testament book. Scripture itself treats the book as a literary work by a single author. In this episode, Will Wood, discusses critical approaches to this prophecy that tend to view the book of Isaiah as a composite work of many different people and even different groups. All the while, we will come to see that the question of authorship is not self-contained; it raises significant issues regarding fundamental matters of the faith.

Will Wood is Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Will Wood

Vos Group #57 — Objective Revelation to the Prophets

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 04:00:55 -0400

We turn to pages 214–216 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, to discuss the kernel and divination theories of the reception of prophetic revelation. Critical scholars seek to identify human beings as the origin of the prophetic message. Vos defends the orthodox notion that God reveals himself in objective verbal revelation to the prophets, who delivered that inspired and inerrant message to the people.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Cain and Abel

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 04:00:01 -0400

Glen Clary leads us in a consideration of the biblical-theological themes in the Cain and Abel narrative of Genesis 4. Much more than a mere commentary on anger and murder, this passage has much to teach us about worship and God’s plan of communion with those made in his image.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

The Gospel and Self-Conception

Fri, 26 Jul 2019 04:00:22 -0400

Daniel Schrock speaks about self-conception in light of the Revoice movement and the Nashville Statement. Looking to the believers’ union with Christ in his death and resurrection, Schrock provides a way to answer questions such as, “Is it proper to speak of being gay as a Christian’s identity?” The basis of this episode is Schrock’s article, “The Gospel and Self-Conception: A Defense of Article 7 of the Nashville Statement.”

Participants: Camden Bucey, Daniel Schrock

The Doctrine of Election

Fri, 19 Jul 2019 04:00:05 -0400

Dr. Cornelis Venema speaks about the doctrine of election. His book, Chosen in Christ: Revisiting the Contours of Predestination, is available in Mentor’s Reformed, Exegetical, and Doctrinal Studies series. Venema addresses the subject from exegetical, historical, contemporary, and pastoral vantage points. In this conversation, he addresses the doctrine of election in the Old and New Testaments, the relationship between covenant and election, the polemical discourse between Augustine and Pelagius, and the revisionist doctrine of Karl Barth.

Dr. Venema is President and Professor of Doctrinal Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. He is the author of several books, including Promise of the Future, Christ and Covenant Theology, and Children at the Lord’s Table? Assessing the Case for Paedocommunion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cornelis Venema

Evangelicals and Post-Vatican II Roman Catholicism

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 04:00:25 -0400

Leonardo De Chirico speaks about evangelical responses and assessments of Roman Catholicism post-Vatican II. Vatican II was an ecumenical council of the Roman Catholic Church held from 1962–1965 and widely interpreted as bringing the Catholic Church into a new relationship to the world and other religions.

De Chirico analyzes the several prominent evangelical scholars, including G.C. Berkouwer, Cornelius Van Til, and John Stott, in order to identify various strengths and weaknesses in evangelical perspectives on modern Roman Catholicism. De Chirico concludes that evangelicalism typically misses how two foundational aspects of Catholic theology (the relationship of nature to grace and a Christological ecclesiology) serve to undergird an entire theological system.

Leonardo De Chirico planted and pastored an Evangelical church in Ferrara (northern Italy) from 1997 to 2009. Since 2009 he has been involved in a church planting project in Rome and is now pastor of the church Breccia di Roma. He earned degrees in History (University of Bologna), Theology (ETCW, Bridgend, Wales) and Bioethics (University of Padova). His PhD is from King’s College (London) and it was published as Evangelical Theological Perspectives on Post-Vatican II Roman Catholicism (Bern-Oxford: Peter Lang 2003).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Leonardo De Chirico

Vos Group #56 — The Mode of Reception of the Prophetic Revelation

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 04:00:41 -0400

We turn to pages 212–213 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss the mode of reception of the prophetic revelation. In the fourth section of his book, Vos continues to contrast the modernist conception with that of confessional orthodoxy. He stresses that revelation does not originate naturally but is in its essence, “a real communication” from God to the prophets.

Our study of Vos is focused on biblical theology, or what Vos termed “the history of special revelation.” A modernized conception of revelation construes history as natural and mechanical in character. History is encased in patterns of natural cause and effect. It is a closed reality. For the Kantian, the mind of man imposes rational categories onto nature. Others view the mind and discovering natural and immutable laws, which don’t exhibit any variation. It is an anti-supernaturalist conception of history. For the modernist, supernatural revelation cannot exist in the sphere of natural history.

Vos, however, is unwavering in his commitment to the self-attesting word of God, which is a supernatural word from the transcendent God, who nevertheless condescends voluntarily to speak to those made in his image.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Cessationism

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 04:00:48 -0400

Glen Clary and Camden Bucey speak about the ministry of the Holy Spirit and cessationism. We discuss how the pouring out of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is a unique event of redemptive-history just as unrepeatable as the death and resurrection of Christ. As individuals are effectually called and united to Christ by faith, they are incorporated into the Spirit-baptized body of Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

John Gerstner and the Renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed Evangelicalism

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 04:00:59 -0400

Jeffrey S. McDonald speaks about his book, John Gerstner and the Renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed Evangelicalism in Modern America (Wipf & Stock, 2017). It is published in the Princeton Theological Monograph Series.

John Gerstner (1914–96) was a significant leader in the renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed evangelicalism in America during the second half of the twentieth century. Gerstner’s work as a church historian sought to shape evangelicalism, but also northern mainline Presbyterianism. He wrote, taught, lectured, debated, and preached widely.

Jeffrey S. McDonald is the pastor of Avery Presbyterian Church in Bellevue, Nebraska and an Affiliate Professor of Church History at Sioux Falls Seminary, Omaha.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff McDonald, Jim Cassidy

Thinking through Creation

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 04:00:43 -0400

Christopher Watkin speaks about his book Thinking through Creation: Genesis 1 and 2 as Tools of Cultural Critique. Watkin looks to the early chapters of Genesis for foundational doctrines about God, the world, and ourselves. In so doing, he advocates for a robust engagement with others about contemporary culture and ideas.

Dr. Watkin completed his Bachelor’s and Doctoral degrees at Cambridge University. He lectured at Cambridge for a couple of years before moving with his family to Australia, where he now works as a lecturer at Monash University in Melbourne. He is the author of a number of academic books in the area of modern European philosophy, including Difficult Atheism (2011) and French Philosophy Today (2016), both with Edinburgh University Press. Over the past few years he has written four books published by P&R Publishing. Three of them are in the Great Thinkers series: Jacques Derrida (2017), Michel Foucault (2018) and Gilles Deleuze (forthcoming).

Links to Thinking through the Bible

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Christopher Watkin

Vos Group #55 — Did the Later Prophets Create an Ethical Monotheism?

Fri, 07 Jun 2019 04:00:59 -0400

We turn to pages 206–211 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to continue our discussion of critical theories of prophetism. Vos tackles a modernist, critical theory of the development of monotheism under the prophets. Vos wants the reader to enter into a modernist world–a critical world. In that world, there are three main things you will face:

A finite and developing conception of deity
A mechanical and purely natural conception of history
An errant and merely human conception of the Bible

These are the key features of a “critical” approach to the prophets. But, as Machen pointed out so clearly, these three conceptions represent a different religion: a fundamentally Pelagian conception of religion.

Vos helps us see, by contrast, that the kingdom of God and the demand that he be worshipped exclusively is built into man as the image of God. Adam, from the start, was bound to God in a religious relation by creation that the covenant of works was to advance. Man, from the beginning, exists to worship God–to glorify and enjoy God forever in covenantal fellowship. For the liberal to reverse this relation and insist that God must serve the purpose of man is to lay bare that the critics truly do have a different religion. On this, Vos and Machen are one.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Reformed Apologetics

Fri, 31 May 2019 04:00:25 -0400

J. V. Fesko has written Reforming Apologetics: Retrieving the Classic Reformed Approach to Defending the Faith (Baker Academic, 2019). In the book, Dr. Fesko criticizes, among others, Cornelius Van Til. In this conversation, we interact with the book and compare its claims with those of Van Til. A central claim of Dr. Fesko’s is that Van Til rejects “common notions.” He writes:

in the middle of the seventeenth century, philosophers such as John Locke (1632–1704) rejected the idea of common notions. In the twentieth century, this rejection made its way to liberal and conservative Reformed theologians alike, including Karl Barth (1886–1968) and Cornelius Van Til (1895–1987).”[1]

He draws particular attention to Van Til’s discussion of authority and reason on pages 168–169 of Defense of the Faith (3^rd edition).[2] On those pages, Van Til makes an important distinction:

A word must now be said about the idea of ‘common notions’ referred to in the quotation given above. The present writer made a distinction between notions that are psychologically and metaphysically, that is revelationally, common to all men, and common notions that are ethically and epistemologically common.[3]

Van Til continues, “All men have common notions about God; all men naturally have knowledge of God.”[4] So, what is Van Til getting at? There are notions common to all men, but there are some things common to believers and others common to unbelievers. Van Til explains what is also common to natural man as a consequence of total depravity:

It is this actual possession of the knowledge of God that is the indispensable presupposition of man’s ethical opposition to God. There could be no absolute ethical antithesis to God on the part of Satan and fallen man unless they are self-consciously against the common notions that are concreated with them. Paul speaks of sinful man as suppressing within him the knowledge of God that he has. . . . It is these notions of human autonomy, or irrational discontinuity and of rationalistic continuity that are the common notions of sinful or apostate mankind.[5]

[1] J. V. Fesko, Reforming Apologetics: Retrieving the Classic Reformed Approach to Defending the Faith (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2019), 24.

[2] Fesko, 24n56.

[3] Cornelius Van Til, Defense of the Faith, 3rd ed. (Philadelphia: P & R Publishing, 1967), 168.

[4] Van Til, 168.

[5] Van Til, 168.

[6] Van Til, 168.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Reformed Forum, the Church, and the Great Commission

Fri, 24 May 2019 04:00:00 -0400

Reformed Forum exists to present every person mature in Christ (Col. 1:28). We do that specifically by supporting the Church in her God-ordained task of accomplishing the Great Commission. In this episode, we discuss our mission and vision and share exciting news about the future of our ministry including Camden Bucey’s transition to become our full-time Executive Director.

Reformed Forum Proposal (May 2019)Download

Reformed Forum is an organization committed to providing Reformed Christian theological resources to pastors, scholars, and anyone who desires to grow in their understanding of Scripture and the theology that faithfully summarizes its teachings. We are committed to the principles of the Reformation and a redemptive-historical approach to Scripture. We believe these faithfully represent the teachings of the Bible, which is our only standard for faith and practice.

During the Modernist-Fundamentalist Controversy of the early twentieth century, E. J. Young wrote to J. Gresham Machen, the founder of Westminster Theological Seminary and key figure in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, which had yet to be formed:

Within the church there should be an organization, entirely independent of the formal church, which would act as leaven. This organization should be composed of ministers, elders and laymen of the new church alone, who not only believe the Westminster Confession but who are on fire with it. The purpose of this organization should be to propagate and to defend the Reformed faith, to point out the errors of modernism, sacerdotalism, premillennialism, Arminianism, Trichotomy, and so much of the anti-Scriptural evangelism of today. Furthermore, this group would seek to propagate Reformed literature, such as your book, Christianity and Liberalism, Boettner’s book and works of that type. It would seek to propagate this literature not only among the clergy but also among the laity. In other words, it would be a missionary agency whose primary field is the church. Further, it would eventually seek to promote truly Reformed Bible Conferences and Evangelistic Campaigns, would seek to start Reformed Bible classes and prayer meetings and would seek to encourage Reformed radio broadcasts, etc.
E. J. Young, letter to J. Gresham Machen, October 2, 1935.

Seventy-three years passed before Reformed Forum was founded and much has changed regarding technology, but providentially we have become such an organization. There is a need today just as there was then, because the theological challenges persist. We are committed to be faithful to Scripture to the end that Christ would be glorified in the fulfillment of the Great Commission.

Donate

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Mark Van Drunen

All Israel Shall be Saved: Interpretations of Romans 11

Fri, 17 May 2019 04:00:33 -0400

Many different interpretations have been offered regarding the phrase “all Israel shall be saved” in Romans 11. In this episode, we speak about five different interpretations, focusing on the three that are represented in confessionally Reformed and Presbyterian Churches.

Resources

Cornelis P. Venema, “In This Way All Israel Will be Saved: A Study of Romans 11:26” Mid-America Journal of Theology 22 (2011) 19–40.
Richard B. Gaffin, Jr., “Theonomy and Eschatology: Reflections on Postmillennialism” in Theonomy: A Reformed Critique, edited by Williams S. Barker and Robert Godfrey

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

The Battle Hymn of the Republic and Civil Religion

Fri, 10 May 2019 04:00:05 -0400

We welcome Richard M. Gamble, Professor of History, Anna Margaret Ross Alexander Chair in History and Politics at Hillsdale College, to speak about Julia Ward Howe’s poem, which came to be know as “The Battle Hymn of the Republic.” Gamble is the author of A Fiery Gospel: The Battle Hymn of the Republic and the Road to Righteous War (Religion and American Public Life), which discloses the history of the hymn as well as its position within an overall intellectual history of civil religion within the United States.

Other Books by Richard M. Gamble

From the Publisher

Since its composition in Washington’s Willard Hotel in 1861, Julia Ward Howe’s “Battle Hymn of the Republic” has been used to make America and its wars sacred. Few Americans reflect on its violent and redemptive imagery, drawn freely from prophetic passages of the Old and New Testaments, and fewer still think about the implications of that apocalyptic language for how Americans interpret who they are and what they owe the world.

In A Fiery Gospel, Richard M. Gamble describes how this camp-meeting tune, paired with Howe’s evocative lyrics, became one of the most effective instruments of religious nationalism. He takes the reader back to the song’s origins during the Civil War, and reveals how those political and military circumstances launched the song’s incredible career in American public life. Gamble deftly considers the idea behind the song―humming the tune, reading the music for us―all while reveling in the multiplicity of meanings of and uses to which Howe’s lyrics have been put. “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” has been versatile enough to match the needs of Civil Rights activists and conservative nationalists, war hawks and peaceniks, as well as Europeans and Americans. This varied career shows readers much about the shifting shape of American righteousness. Yet it is, argues Gamble, the creator of the song herself―her Abolitionist household, Unitarian theology, and Romantic and nationalist sensibilities―that is the true conductor of this most American of war songs.

A Fiery Gospel depicts most vividly the surprising genealogy of “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” and its sure and certain position as a cultural piece in the uncertain amalgam that was and is American civil religion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

The Role of Surveys in Biblical Studies

Fri, 03 May 2019 04:00:51 -0400

Jim Cassidy speaks about his experience teaching a New Testament survey at South Austin OPC in South Austin, Texas. Surveys of the Old Testament, New Testament, and the entire Bible are useful for provide historical, cultural, geographical, and other forms of context in order to help us deepen and widen our understanding of God’s plan and purpose for his covenant people.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Creator-creature Distinction in the Hypostatic Union

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 04:00:51 -0400

In the incarnation, the eternal Son of God assumed a human nature. He did this without giving up his divinity. He retains his immutability, omniscience, omnipresence, and all the attributes according to his eternal, divine, and necessary existence.

In this episode, we discuss how these two natures relate to the person in the hypostatic union. By looking at Scripture, the Council of Chalcedon, and our confessional tradition, we review an orthodox grammar for speaking about these matters.

An error in the doctrine of God or Christology, however minor it may seem, will inevitably compound as other doctrines are developed. We should always seek to maintain confessional orthodoxy by reviewing the basics from which we never graduate.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Vos Group #54 — The Origin of “Nabhi-ism” in Israel

Fri, 19 Apr 2019 04:00:12 -0400

We turn to pages 202–205 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to continue our discussion of critical theories of prophetism. Vos answers critics who believe that Israel derived its understanding of prophetism from Canaanite religion by focusing our attention upon God’s word revealed in history. Contrary to the false prophets, true prophetism is centered on true religion, union and communion with God according to his word.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Sabbath Rest in Genesis 2:1–3

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 04:00:30 -0400

The sabbath principle is established in Genesis 2:1–3, immediately upon the completion of God’s work of creation. This Sabbath rest principle is a function neither of redemption nor theocracy. It is part of God’s creation order. We trace this theme through Scripture with particular attention to worship. Glen Clary recently addressed this subject in a conference for the Amarillo Reformed Fellowship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

Divine Authority Displayed in Covenant

Fri, 05 Apr 2019 04:00:22 -0400

We gather around the table in Wimberley, Texas to discuss the authority of the self-contained Triune God of Scripture. The absolute, self-sufficient God nevertheless established a covenant with man by an act of special providence. In that act, the authority of God’s word is diplayed—entirely independently of man’s response. Whether Adam obeyed or disobeyed, God’s infallible word would be proved.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

Predictive Prophecy in Isaiah 44:24–45:7

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 04:00:25 -0400

Andrew Compton, Assistant Professor of Old Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, speaks about the nature of the prophecy in Isaiah 44:24–45:7 wherein the Lord declares that he will raise up Cyrus. Rev. Compton addresses the challenges of critical scholars, who often see this passage as a later addition.

Participants: Andrew Compton, Camden Bucey

The Blessings and Promises of the New Covenant in Deuteronomy 30:1–10

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 04:00:03 -0400

Will Wood, Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia, joins us to speak about the blessings and promises of the New Covenant as described in Deuteronomy 30:1–10.

Handout: Chiastic Structure of Deuteronomy 30 Download

The Usefulness of the Cross

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 04:00:20 -0400

What does suffering have to do with the life of the Christian? Is suffering something we just have to endure until that time that we will have the victory in Christ? To address this matter, we turn to a classic article by Richard B. Gaffin, Jr., “The Usefulness of the Cross,” The Westminster Theological Journal, Vol. 41 No. 2 Spring 1979, pp. 228–246.

Vos Group #53 — The Influence of Geerhardus Vos

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 05:00:07 -0400

Danny Olinger, author of Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theology, Confessional Presbyterian, joins us for a special conversation. We take a brief break from Vos’s book Biblical Theology to discuss the influence of Vos upon several other theologians. We then open the floor to questions from people participating in our live webinar.

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

The Future of Everything

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 05:00:31 -0400

William Boekestein speaks about eschatology and the life of the Christian. While many limit eschatology merely to the consideration of millennial views, Rev. Boekestein calls all Christians to understand how our view of the future in Christ shapes all of life.

Boekestein is the author of The Future of Everything: Essential Truths about the End Times (Reformation Heritage, 2019).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, William Boekestein

Interpreting Genesis 1–3

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 05:00:57 -0400

Dr. Vern Poythress speaks about the hermeneutical issues of interpreting Genesis 1–3 and how biblical interpretation relates to contemporary scientific study.

Dr. Poythress is Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Biblical Interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary and the author of Interpreting Eden: A Guide to Faithfully Understanding and Reading Genesis 1–3 (Crossway). The publisher writes:

Christians have long discussed and debated the first three chapters of the Bible. How we interpret this crucial section of Scripture has massive implications for how we understand the rest of God’s Word and even history itself. In this important volume, biblical scholar Vern Poythress combines careful exegesis with theological acumen to illuminate the significance of Genesis 1–3. In doing so, he demonstrates the sound interpretive principles that lead to true understanding of the biblical text, while also exploring complex topics such as the nature of time, the proper role of science, interpretive literalism, and more.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, Vern Poythress

Vos Group #52 — Prophets and Sons of Prophets

Fri, 15 Feb 2019 05:00:01 -0400

In this episode of #VosGroup, we turn to pages 200–201 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to continue our discussion of critical theories of prophetism.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Van Til in Colombia

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 05:00:44 -0400

Jim Cassidy speaks about his recent trip to Colombia to lecture on Van Til’s apologetic. Jim, Glen, and Camden also speak about books they are currently reading or have read.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

On Richard Dawkins

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 05:00:40 -0400

Dr. Ransom Poythress has written Richard Dawkins in P&R Publishing’s Great Thinkers series. Poythress speaks about Richard Dawkins’s system of thought. Since the early 2000s, Dawkins has been an outspoken advocate of what has been termed the New Atheism. Poythress discusses Dawkins’s beliefs and advocates methods for approaching those who believe likewise. Dr. Poythress is assistant professor of biology at Houghton College in Houghton, New York.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Ransom Poythress

The Marburg Colloquy

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 05:00:56 -0400

Carl Trueman speaks about the Marburg Colloquy, a meeting called by Philip I of Hesse to unite the Protestant states in a political alliance. To accomplish such a union, he sought theological agreement between Martin Luther and Ulrich Zwingli. While Luther and Zwingli could agree on fourteen theological points laid out at the meeting, they could not come to terms on the real presence of Christ in the Lord’s Supper.

Dr. Trueman is professor of biblical and religious studies at Grove City College.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Jeff Waddington

The Deacon

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 05:00:21 -0400

Dr. Cornelis Van Dam, Emeritus Professor of Old Testament at Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, joins us to speak about the biblical office of deacon and the Church’s responsibility to provide for those in need.

Dr. Van Dam has written The Deacon: Biblical Foundations for Today’s Ministry of Mercy (Reformation Heritage Books, 2016). In this excellent book, Van Dam addresses the office of deacon, including the Old Testament background, New Testament times, the history of ancient, medieval, and Reformation practice, and the current functioning of the office.

Dr. Van Dam has also written The Elder: Today’s Ministry Rooted in All of Scripture (P&R Publishing). His bibliography is available online through the seminary.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cornelis Van Dam, Glen Clary

Justification Accomplished and Applied

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 05:00:05 -0400

Today we provide an introduction to the doctrine of justification with a consideration of several basic categories. We begin with a confessional doctrine of justification from the Westminster Standards. We then consider justification’s relationship to faith. Then we turn to the believer’s relationship to the person and work of Christ and consider how we are united to him. Finally, we speak about the relationship of that union to faith.

Westminster Shorter Catechism

Q. 29. How are we made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ?
A. We are made partakers of the redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual application of it to us by his Holy Spirit.

Q. 30. How doth the Spirit apply to us the redemption purchased by Christ?
A. The Spirit applieth to us the redemption purchased by Christ, by working faith in us, and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual calling.

Q. 31. What is effectual calling?
A. Effectual calling is the work of God’s Spirit, whereby, convincing us of our sin and misery, enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renewing our wills, he doth persuade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the gospel.

Q. 32. What benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this life?
A. They that are effectually called do in this life partake of justification, adoption and sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them.

Q. 33. What is justification?
A. Justification is an act of God’s free grace, wherein he pardoneth all our sins, and accepteth us as righteous in his sight, only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone.

Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 11—Of Justification

1. Those whom God effectually calleth, he also freely justifieth: not by infusing righteousness into them, but by pardoning their sins, and by accounting and accepting their persons as righteous; not for anything wrought in them, or done by them, but for Christ’s sake alone; nor by imputing faith itself, the act of believing, or any other evangelical obedience to them, as their righteousness; but by imputing the obedience and satisfaction of Christ unto them, they receiving and resting on him and his righteousness, by faith; which faith they have not of themselves, it is the gift of God.

4. God did, from all eternity, decree to justify all the elect, and Christ did, in the fullness of time, die for their sins, and rise again for their justification: nevertheless, they are not justified, until the Holy Spirit doth, in due time, actually apply Christ unto them.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Highlights from 2018

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 05:00:36 -0400

As is our annual custom, we’ve selected several clips from the episodes we released over the last year. We spoke with many people and had many fascinating conversations. I hope we’ll pique your interest, and you’ll go back to listen to many of the full conversations represented by these highlights.

Thank you to everyone who visited reformedforum.org/donate throughout the year. We are tremendously grateful for your generous support. Be assured that we’re setting the stage for another big year as our board continues to think and pray about our next steps.

We’re looking forward to another full year of Christ the Center. January 25 marked our 10th anniversary. Jeff, Jim, and I recorded that first episode during my first year in seminary—three homes and three children ago. Things have changed over the years, but our goal has stayed the same. Our mission is to present every person mature in Christ (Col. 1:28).

Episodes

524 — Marcus Mininger, Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26
533 — Michael Kruger, How the Second Century Shaped the Future of the Church
540 — The Nature of Apostasy in Hebrews 6
542 — Bill Dennison, Karl Marx
551 — The Impeccability of Jesus Christ
555 — Darryl Hart, Still Protesting
556 — The Deeper Protestant Conception
566 — Glen Clary, The Liturgies of Bucer, Calvin, and Knox
570 — Danny Olinger, Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theologian, Confessional Presbyterian
571 — Cory Brock and Nathaniel Gray Sutanto, Bavinck’s Philosophy of Revelation

Participants: Adam York, Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Cory Brock, Dan Ragusa, Danny Olinger, Darryl G. Hart, Glen Clary, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Marcus Mininger, Michael Kruger, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Vos Group #51 — The History of Prophetism: Critical Theories

Fri, 28 Dec 2018 05:00:39 -0400

In this installment of #VosGroup, we turn to pages 198–199 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider critical theories of prophetism. We extend and amplify the material in these pages more than usual by connecting Vos’s teaching to the theology of Karl Barth and other modernist approaches.

Broadly, the term can be associated with “instrument of revelation” and this is so important to note. For Vos, contra Barth, there is a direct, organic disclosure of God’s revealed truth in our calendar-time history. It is not in a distinct, third-time dimension that Barth calls Geschichte that “revelation” occurs. For Barth, revelation is Jesus Christ in a distinct time dimension, God’s third time for us, that “revelation” occurs. Revelation is Jesus Christ. The Scriptures, the prophets and calendar time history are not themselves revelation–they only point to revelation. Revelation is a “supra-historical” event in a time dimension altogether different from our calendar time.

But Vos would say this is fundamentally wrong–it is a different religious conception of “revelation” altogether. God speaks directly to Adam in the Garden of Eden in terms of positive, special, verbal revelation. God’s voice can be heard, speaking with inerrant and inescapable authority, in Eden. It is this initial self-revelation from God, in the Garden of Eden, prior to the fall, that supplies us with our conception of revelation. God both acts and speaks in calendar time history, and that special is initially given to Adam under the covenant of works. God’s revelation in nature (image of God) is by divine design subordinate to God’s revelation in positive categories. In other words, Genesis 2:7 (image of God) and Genesis 2:15–17 (Covenant) demand the idea that God reveals himself with absolute authority and clarity directly in history.

Vos says, “But the Reformed have always insisted upon it that at no point shall a recognition of the historical delivery and apprehension of truth be permitted to degenerate into a relativity of truth. The history remains a history of revelation. Its total product agrees absolutely in every respect with the sum of truth as it lies in the eternal mind and purpose of God.”

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Mutual Interrelation of Natural and Special Revelation

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 05:00:09 -0400

Jeff Waddington speaks about the characteristics of natural and special revelation and their relationship to one another. Jeff recently delivered a lecture at Westminster Theological Seminary on the subject.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

William Perkins on Predestination

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 05:00:15 -0400

William Perkins (1558–1602), often called “the father of Puritanism,” was a master preacher and teacher of Reformed, experiential theology. Greg Salazar speaks about Perkins’s works on predestination and his influence upon the Puritan and Reformed tradition. In speaking of predestination, we also cover related topics on Perkins’s theology such as his Christology, his understanding of the ordo salutis, and even his views on Christian forms of memory recall.

Dr. Salazar is Assistant Professor of Historical Theology for the PhD program at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Along with Dr. Joel Beeke, he has edited volume six of Perkins’s works with Reformation Heritage Books.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Greg Salazar, Jim Cassidy

Bavinck’s Philosophy of Revelation

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 05:00:32 -0400

Cory Brock and Nathaniel Gray Sutanto speak about Herman Bavinck’s Philosophy of Revelation (Hendrickson Publishers). Drs. Brock and Sutanto have edited a new annotated edition of Bavinck’s Stone Lectures, which were delivered at Princeton in 1908. Other than his Reformed Dogmatics, this is Bavinck’s most important work. We are blessed to welcome new editions and translations of these works. Along with James Eglinton, Brock and Sutanto are also editing Bavinck’s Christian Worldview, scheduled to be published by Crossway next year.

Cory Brock is Minister of Young Adults and College at First Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Jackson, MS. He also serves on the faculty of Belhaven University teaching biblical studies. Nathaniel Gray Sutanto is Assistant Pastor at Covenant City Church in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cory Brock, Dan Ragusa, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theologian, Confessional Presbyterian

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 05:00:23 -0400

Danny Olinger speaks about the life and thought of Geerhardus Vos. Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. has identified Vos as the father of Reformed biblical theology and we take the time to speak of his contribution and legacy. Rev. Olinger is General Secretary for the OPC Committee on Christian Education. He has written a tremendous biography of Vos, titled Geerhardus Vos: Reformed Biblical Theologian, Confessional Presbyterian. The book is published by Reformed Forum and available for purchase.

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Jim Cassidy

Ezekiel 9–10 and the Man in Linen

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 05:00:53 -0400

Lane Keister speaks about features of Ezekiel 9–10 that help us understand the identity of the man of linen in the passage. Rev. Keister’s article, “The Man in Linen: A New and Old Interpretation of Ezekiel 9–10” is published in issue 14 of the Confessional Presbyterian Journal (2018). Lane Keister is the pastor of Momence OPC in Momence, Illinois and a PhD student at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Lane Keister

Vos Group #50 — Biblical and Greek Conceptions of Prophetism

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 05:00:57 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series in pages 194–197 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the biblical conception of prophetism. We discuss the Greek and pagan conceptions and their connection to contemporary modernist conceptions.

Vos has in view here a Hellenic, and not New Testament, conception of the prophet. Some would seek to understand prophet as a foreteller, which brings into view predictive prophecy—a telling of a situation in advance of the actual occurrence of the situation. However, it is not proper to take the concept in this direction only. While there is a predictive element present in much of what the prophets communicate, it is better to take them as foretellers in a local sense. This means that prophet is one who speaks an oracle from God. It is a place in time where one speaks on behalf of God.

However, the Greek terms, as it appears in a Hellenic, extra-biblical context, has a different connotation, and this is critical to grasp, that we must reject. That connotation is this: the prophet in this Greek conception is an interpreter of a fundamentally opaque, hidden utterance from god. Pythia (the name of the high priestess of the temple Apollo at Delphi), would be the interpreter of this fundamentally hidden oracle—a dark saying that needed a human interpreter in order to be rendered intelligible.

The Greek prophet does not stand in a direct relation to the deity, as in the Old Testament prophet, who spoke, by inspiration, directly from God, a word from God. Rather than being a mouth-piece of the deity, as is the case with the Nabi, the prophet in the Old Testament sense of the term, the prophet in the Greek, Hellenic sense, is an interpreter of the deity’s oracle. The oracle comes from the Deity but requires interpretation, an interpretive act, from a prophet, to render that message intelligible or clear. The prophet, in this Hellenic conception, is therefore not one who speaks the words of the deity. Rather, he is one who intercepts a supra-rational, intrinsically opaque, communication from a deity. It is precisely this conception of the prophet that Vos sees being appropriated by the liberals of his day.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Ordinary Means of Grace and the Local Church

Fri, 09 Nov 2018 05:00:53 -0400

The Westminster Larger Catechism, Question and Answer 154 describes the ordinary and outwards means of grace as the Word, sacraments, and prayer. We discuss these ordinary means and how they apply to the day-to-day ministry of the local church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

The Liturgies of Bucer, Calvin, and Knox

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 04:00:13 -0400

Glen Clary compares and contrasts the Reformation liturgies of Martin Bucer, John Calvin, and John Knox. Studying each of these helps us to understand the significance of worship reformed according to Scripture and focuses our attention upon worship in our present day.

The Goodness and Glory of God in Romans 8:28–30

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 04:00:08 -0400

Glen Clary and Camden Bucey discuss the apostle Paul’s teaching in Romans 8:28–30. Paul speaks of the purpose of God’s foreknowledge and predestination—leading to conformity to the image of Christ.

²⁸ And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. ²⁹ For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. ³⁰ And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (Romans 8:28–30, ESV)

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

The Trinitarian Christology of Thomas Aquinas

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 04:00:46 -0400

Dominic Legge, O. P. speaks about the deep connection between Thomas’s Christology and his trinitarian theology. Dr. Legge is Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology and Director of the Thomistic Institute Pontifical Faculty of the Immaculate Conception at the Dominican House of Studies. He is the author of The Trinitarian Christology of St. Thomas Aquinas (Oxford University Press, 2017).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dominic Legge, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

Antinomianism at the Westminster Assembly

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Whitney Gamble speaks about antinomianism and the Westminster Assembly. She has written Christ and the Law: Antinomianism at the Westminster Assembly, which is part of the Studies on the Westminster Assembly series published by Reformation Heritage Books. Dr. Gamble is associate professor of biblical and theological studies at Providence Christian College. She holds a PhD in historical and systematic theology from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, a master of theological studies from Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and a B.A. in biblical studies from Geneva College in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania. Along with seventy other leading scholars from around the world, she is contributing a chapter in the forthcoming multi-volume series, The History of Scottish Theology, published by Oxford University Press. Dr. Gamble is also a frequent guest on The White Horse Inn podcast.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Whitney Gamble

Vos Group #49 — The Conception of a Prophet: Names and Etymologies

Fri, 05 Oct 2018 04:00:58 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series in pages 191–194 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the biblical conception of prophetism. Vos beings by considering critical theories of prophetism based on the term “prophet.” Vos instructs us that all quests for seeking the conception of the prophet in etymology, rather in the teaching of the text, the meaning and function of Nabi (the Hebrew word for prophet) in the biblical text, are fraught with uncertainty and speculation. This is always the case when you seek to find the meaning of the text behind it in a critically reconstructed theory of the origin of the meaning in the text itself. Of course, if you want to say that the text takes you to what is behind it—the history of special deed revelation which the word revelation interprets, that is fine, even critical to affirm. But what Vos is helping us see is that we do not seek to find the meaning of the biblical text in a critical reconstruction of what sources we think might yield the meaning “behind” the text. Such an approach, characteristic of the modernist scholarship in Vos’ day (and continuing in our day) strips authority from the biblical text and makes it a fallible window through which we seek to get “behind” the text to its true historically reconstructed sources. Such an approach divests the Scripture of its revelatory character and intrinsic authority. The point: “even to the pre-Mosaic Hebrew consciousness a nabhi is an authorized spokesman for the Deity, and that in his word a divinely-communicated power resides” (193). Contrary to the modernist conception of the prophet as an insightful, inspiring religious genius who shares his mysterious insight into the divine (and therefore is an ethical example for us), the prophet is first and foremost one who receives and is authorized to transmit (to speak and write) the Word of God do you have the prophet. All the emphasis lies on the actual speaking, the true communicating, of something out in the open, where it reaches the mind of man and directs him in his religious fellowship bond with God. It is there that you find the essence of the prophet’s activity. It is not the mere passive reception of some ineffable mystery; it is the open declaration of the oracles of God—words from God that address God’s people in covenant fellowship with Himself. Vos is warning us, once again, of the errors of Liberalism or Modernism—where the trend is always to reduce the Scriptures and the prophets in this case, to a record of religious experience–religious feeling set forth in speech. Rather, the Scriptures in general and the prophets in particular bring into view the supernatural approach of God for fellowship with his covenant people, as that relation is rooted in the substance of what the prophets will proclaim–Christ crucified and Christ raised (I Peter 1:10–12). The point, as we move toward unpacking that gospel content, is that God speaks to his people for the purpose of consummating a redemptive bond of fellowship—communion in covenant—that lies at the core of our religious relation to God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Entering God’s Rest

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 04:00:09 -0400

Ken Golden speaks about the Lord’s Day throughout redemptive-history and what it means to seek our heavenly rest in Christ. In his book, Entering God’s Rest: The Sabbath from Genesis to Revelation (Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals, 2018), Rev. Golden seeks to move beyond a checklist of do’s and don’ts to consider the deeper significance of finding our joy in the Lord.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Ken Golden

The Beatific Vision and the Eucharist in the Theology of Thomas Aquinas

Fri, 21 Sep 2018 04:00:21 -0400

Dr. Lawrence Feingold brings us a Catholic’s perspective on Thomas Aquinas and the important connection between his doctrines of the Eucharist and the Beatific Vision. Dr. Feingold is Associate Professor of Theology and Philosophy at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. He is the author of The Eucharist: Mystery of Presence, Sacrifice, and Communion and The Natural Desire to See God According to St. Thomas and His Interpreters. Dr. Feingold expresses the deep congruence between Thomas’s metaphysic and doctrines of the Beatific Vision and Eucharist. Rather than treating different loci of his theology and philosophy as disparate elements, it is much better and more appropriate to embrace Thomas as a monumental thinker developing an organic whole. While we have deep differences with the Roman Catholic tradition, we found this conversation to be utterly stimulating and instructive. Our understanding of Thomas and Catholicism was sharpened, and we trust listeners and viewers will benefit from careful consideration of Dr. Feingold’s teaching.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Lawrence Feingold

Previewing Karl Barth and Thomas Aquinas on Analogy

Fri, 14 Sep 2018 04:00:06 -0400

Jim Cassidy previews his address at the 2018 Reformed Forum conference by speaking about Barth on the analogy of being and the analogy of faith and how his views relate to the theology of Thomas Aquinas. Jim and Camden also speak about Barth’s views of natural theology and how they relate to the views of Cornelius Van Til. This is in response to recent remarks from Dr. Michael Allen on the Credo Magazine podcast (around minute 37). If you’d like to jump directly to that portion of our discussion, you can watch it on YouTube.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Petrus van Mastricht’s Polemic against Balthasar Bekker

Fri, 07 Sep 2018 04:00:49 -0400

Dan Ragusa introduces us to the theological method of Petrus Van Mastricht, Dutch Reformed theologian, who maintained consistent Reformed orthodoxy against Cartesian influences. Van Mastricht wrote a polemic against Balthasar Bekker, a critic of paganism but a proponent of Cartesianism. In his polemic, Van Mastricht addresses the issue of Scriptural authority, theological method, and the proper end toward which all theologians and philosophers must be directed: worship of the one, true, and living God. Dan Ragusa is a PhD student at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Readings

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa

A Brief Introduction to the Theology of Pseudo-Dionysius

Fri, 31 Aug 2018 04:00:43 -0400

Jeff Waddington previews his address for the 2018 Theology Conference. He speaks about Pseudo-Dionysius, a key influence upon Thomas Aquinas. Dionysius attempted to integrate neoplatonism with Christianity. The result was a Christianization of the great chain of being. Register for the upcoming conference.

Reading List

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

The Deeper Protestant Conception

Fri, 24 Aug 2018 04:00:13 -0400

We discuss how a return to sola scriptura through confessional Reformed theology spares us from the errors of Roman Catholicism and modernism. Reformed covenant theology, broadly considered, is facing a crisis regarding what constitutes “reformed” theology. The situation currently is one of chaos and confusion. Some claim that the way forward is by way of retrieving the theology of Thomas Aquinas, the angelic doctor of the Roman Catholic church, in the service of a so-called “Reformed” apologetic. The line of this argument is that if you follow the Roman Catholic theology and method of Aquinas, you will arrive at Protestant conclusions. Others enlist Aquinas in conversation with the likes of John Webster and Karl Barth, in the interest of retrieving “catholic” tradition in the development of a reformed theological identity. Still others, outside of our reformed circles, are engaged in ecumenical dialogue between Thomas and Barth (Bruce McCormack and Thomas Joseph White’s Thomas Aquinas and Karl Barth: An Unofficial Dialogue, or Keith Johnson’s Karl Barth and the Analogia Entis, which helpfully to my mind points out the significant points of convergence between the two theologians). It is very much worth pointing out that Van Til virtually predicted this in advance in his sadly neglected but highly important work Confession of 1967, where he says, “If now we live in a dialogical age and if only the church as ecumenical can meet the needs of such an age, then surely the Roman Catholic too must learn to see this fact. As Martin Marty says, “If Protestants and Roman Catholics wish to make possible a creative coexistence, to enrich our pluralistic society, and to profit from each other’s separate histories, they will have to participate in dialogue.…” And what does such “dialogue” look like? Again, Van Til says, “It was Hans Urs von Balthasar who, more than anyone else, has helped Barth to see that Roman Catholicism also begins its theology from the Christ-Event. Roman Catholicism, says von Balthasar, does not believe in direct revelation any more than does Barth. To be sure, Rome does speak of “faith and works,” of “nature and grace,” of “reason and revelation.” But this “and” is not, as Barth thinks, fatal to the idea of the primacy of Christ and of faith in Christ. The whole discussion between Barth and the Roman Catholic position may therefore start from the idea that revelation is revelation in hiddenness. ”The difference between Barth and Roman Catholicism will therefore be not of principle but of degree” (Confession, 119).

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

Still Protesting

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 04:00:40 -0400

Darryl G. Hart, Distinguished Associate Professor of History at Hillsdale College, joins us to speak about his book, Still Protesting: Why the Reformation Matters (Reformation Heritage Books). This book addresses the divide between Protestants and Roman Catholics, considering some of the reasons that prompted the Reformation and the Counter-Reformation. It emerges particularly from the context of the increasing number of Protestants who convert to Roman Catholicism, and Hart’s aim is to address some of the most frequent reasons given for abandoning Protestantism.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #48 — The Word as the Instrument of Prophetism

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 04:00:49 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series in pages 187–190 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the word of God and prophetism. Prophetism is restricted to the word as its instrument. The prophetic ministry was a declarative, spiritual authority of one who speaks and writes in the words of Jehovah himself. There is the closest possible connection, then, between the prophetic office and the declaration of the Word of the Lord, as that Word is given by the superintending agency of the Spirit, who breathes out the prophetic Scriptures (cf. 1 Pet. 1:10–11; 2 Tim. 3:16). The effect of being restricted to the ministry of the Word of God was a heightening of the “spiritualizing” relation between Jehovah and Israel.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Effectual Calling and Regeneration

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 04:00:47 -0400

Theologians often speak of regeneration, the work of the Holy Spirit to bring someone to the new birth. But the Westminster Standards speak of effectual calling as the work of the Spirit to give people new hearts, enlightening their minds and renewing their wills. Are effectual calling and regeneration the same thing? If not, how do they relate? In this episode, we discuss the relationship between these two aspects of the ordo salutis.

Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 10: Of Effectual Calling

1. All those whom God hath predestinated unto life, and those only, he is pleased, in his appointed and accepted time, effectually to call, by his Word and Spirit, out of that state of sin and death, in which they are by nature, to grace and salvation, by Jesus Christ; enlightening their minds spiritually and savingly to understand the things of God, taking away their heart of stone, and giving unto them a heart of flesh; renewing their wills, and, by his almighty power, determining them to that which is good, and effectually drawing them to Jesus Christ: yet so, as they come most freely, being made willing by his grace. 2. This effectual call is of God’s free and special grace alone, not from anything at all foreseen in man, who is altogether passive therein, until, being quickened and renewed by the Holy Spirit, he is thereby enabled to answer this call, and to embrace the grace offered and conveyed in it.

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Glen Clary

Moses and Christ in the Epistle to the Hebrews

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 04:00:41 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey speak about the relationship between the Old Covenant and New Covenant in the epistle to the Hebrews. Moses was a servant in God’s house, but Jesus Christ is a faithful son. Christ is the mediator of a better covenant. But we should not conclude that these covenants are unrelated. Indeed, Moses was a servant in God’s house, not a different house. The substance of the Old Covenant is Christ, and it was nothing less than his grace that was mediated to Old Covenant believers, though it was administered through promises, types, and sacrifices. We discuss the earthly things of Old Covenant worship and how they are shadows and copies of the heavenly reality to which Christ has brought his people.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Impeccability of Jesus Christ

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 04:00:53 -0400

The impeccability of Christ is an important, though debated point. It involves not only the sinlessness of our savior, but whether it was possible for him to sin. As we consider the issue, we turn to F. W. Kremer’s article, “The Impeccability of the Lord Jesus Christ” published in Reformed Quarterly Review, Volume 26, April 1879. We discuss the tendency to consider Christ’s humanity independently of his divinity. It’s not merely that people recognize the natures are distinct, but that they implicitly acknowledge that his humanity can be abstracted from his divinity. In the abstract, we could acknowledge that Jesus’s human nature had the capability of sinning. For example, his body was physically capable of taking a sword and murdering someone. But we cannot consider Christ’s human nature in the abstract. He is the second person of the trinity who has assumed a true body and a reasonable soul. Sin involves a moral agent. Does the human nature of Christ constitute a full moral agent apart from the person of the son? This also raises serious issues regarding God’s decree. Throughout the episode, we maintain that if it was possible for Christ to sin, it was possible for Christ to fail.

Transcript

[showhide more_text=”Show Transcript (%s words)” less_text=”Hide Transcript”]Camden Bucey: 00:07 Welcome to Christ The Center, your weekly conversation of reformed theology. We’re now in episode number 551. My name is Camden Bucey. I serve as the pastor of Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois. I’m back with Jeff Waddington, who serves as stated supply at Knox Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Lansdowne Pennsylvania. I’m advocating that we now call it Orthoknox Presbyterian Church. Camden Bucey: 00:33 Welcome back Jeff, it’s good to have you with us. Jeff Waddington: 00:35 Good to be here, Orthoknox Presbyterian Church, that would save time. Camden Bucey: 00:40 That would save some time. We’re thankful for you joining us and for your ministry down there. Jeff Waddington: 00:40 Glad to be here. Camden Bucey: 00:45 We also have with us Adam York, our friend, who is the pastor of Providence OP in Kingwood Texas. Welcome back Adam, it’s good to speak with you. Adam York: 00:55 Well what a blessing it is to be here with your brothers. Camden Bucey: 00:57 Yeah, it’s good to have you back on this side of the podcast divide. We have Proclaiming Christ, one of our favorite programs out there, alongside Theology Simply Profound, and then we have Christ The Center, as our three regular weekly programs. We’re delighted that the those are going strong, but to have Adam, who is a regular on Proclaiming Christ come on over here to Christ The Center, is always a delight. We need not have dividing walls like the Jews and Gentiles did prior to the work of Christ. Adam York: 01:30 We’re tearing down the dividing wall of hostility. Camden Bucey: 01:33 Yeah, no hostility here, but it just so happens the way that we often schedule. I guess Jim and Glenn are flipping over, they’re regulars over on PC2. So it’s good to have you with us Adam, and we’re glad that you brought with you a wonderful topic. Today we’re going to be speaking about the impeccability of the Lord Jesus Christ, which is an issue of whether or not Jesus was capable of sinning in his human nature, and all of the details and the attendant circumstances therein. Camden Bucey: 02:07 So we’re going to speak about that. It’s a probably more contentious issue than you think. But there are different people, even within the reform community that have differing views. So we hope to unpack that and speak about the importance of Christ’s impeccability and what that actually means, in just a few minutes. But I do want to mention that Christ The Center is listener supported, and we do rely on the generous support of our listeners and our viewers, everyone involved with what we’re doing here to help us to produce and distribute all of our programs, free of charge, as well as to host events and do some other things. Camden Bucey: 02:41 We’ve got a lot planned for reform forum over the next six to 12 months. We’re very excited about the things going on. But one of those big things is our theology conference, October 5th through 7th, here in Grayslake, where are our topic this year is: Seeing God, The Deeper Protestant Conception, Aquinas, Bart, Vos & the Beatific Vision. Camden Bucey: 03:02 We’ve gotten a lot of interest on Facebook, people are taking a look at possibly coming and asking their friends if it would be a good event to come to. I do want to encourage people to check it out. We have a lot of information on the website. If you go to reformforum.org, there’s a big ole’ banner right on the front homepage. You can click on that and go to our event information. It may sound like an esoteric subject we’re going to bring it down to the level of people that are going to be there in attendance, we’re not just going to be speaking about abstract things, these are things that really matter, that really matter. And the beatific vision, more or less, is that wonderful blessing that we will enter into when our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ returns. And when we see him, we will be like him, First John 3:2. Camden Bucey: 03:48 The question is how is that? And there are several theological options, that have been presented, even within the reformed community, you know. And there are many people that would say that we participate in the divine essence, our intellect perceives and participates in the divine essence, so that we behold it, not just by knowing and understanding it, but in one way, shape or form, namely by participation, becoming god. And that might seem like wacko and out there, but that is a [inaudible 00:04:19] view, and we’re going to develop that. Camden Bucey: 04:22 We’ve all been reading a ton of Thomas and reading Thomas himself on this subject, and learning quite a bit, so we hope to share that research with people. But on the far other end, you might ask: Well, does God somehow change himself in order to accommodate this new blessed relationship? And then we of course have the Bartian side of things, where God identifies himself with humanity through the revelatory Christ event, you know, in God’s time for us. Camden Bucey: 04:51 So these are extremely practical issues, we’re not just speaking about things that engage the abstract mind, but things that, this is where the rubber meets the road, this is where theology matters. And how we answer these questions, how we develop them, and then what we do about it, has a lot to do with the work of the church. And we want to speak about those things. It’s a little bit of a foretaste. But if you go to the conference page, you can see not only a schedule of events, titles and the speakers who will be in attendance, but also we’re working on providing very succinct thesis statements for each lecture, and then in some cases also a brief little abstract or summary for the topic. Camden Bucey: 05:33 So our early bird registration is in effect until the end of August. You can come to the main conference session for $55. It’s gonna be a full day and a lot of wonderful material for $55. We also have some tickets available for our VIP dinner that Friday night, where you can come, and we’re gonna have roughly about 25 people at a very long single table. But we’re gonna hear a lecture from Danny Olinger on the nature and destiny of from Vos to Gaffin. He’s going to be speaking. It’s gonna be a wonderful kind of Vos event. And there’s a surprise in store, we’re working hard. Not quite ready to announce it, because we want to get a few things finished and a few things ready to make sure that we can deliver. But we’re looking forward to it. All of this online, October 5th through 7th. Camden Bucey: 06:26 You can learn more at reformforum.org. And also save the date, I don’t want to overload everybody, listen in, and don’t want to talk forever, we want to get through our subject. But save the date, April 1st through April 6th in Wimberley Texas, that’s the year 2019, for those who might be listening many years into the future. But the first week of April 2019, we are going to have an entirely new format of an event, something we’ve never done before. And we’re going to have a seminar that’s going to be taught, April 2nd, 3rd and 4th. So in the day, and so at the late morning, probably around 10:00 or so, we’re gonna have two half hour lectures by Lane Tipton is teaching the class, it’s going to be in some respects an intro to reformed theology/biblical theology. Camden Bucey: 07:18 He’s gonna teach 12 total, 30 minute sessions that we are going to record on video and eventually turn into an adult Sunday school course. If you want to be part of that, if you want to be there, come and visit us. We’re gonna host the event at the Old Glory Ranch in Wimberley, Texas. But we also will be renting out cabins, they’re really kind of tiny houses, they’re not rustic cabins, but cabins on site in Wimberley, Texas, where reform forum people will be staying. And you can also rent a cabin and stay on site where not only will you attend the sessions in the daytime, but you also can can spend time with us, hang out with us over dinner, barbecue, whatever we’re doing in the mornings and evenings. So that’s gonna be a wonderful event. We’re gonna have more information on that and registration available soon. But save the date, April 1st through 6th, 2019. Camden Bucey: 08:15 Okay guys, I think that’s enough of my marketing. But I just can’t talk enough about these things, I’m so excited about what we’re able to do. It’s kind of a new era in reform forum, and we’re very thankful for the ways that the Lord has provided for us, so that we are able to support the church in her work of the great commission. She’s been given that mandate by the Lord to make disciples of men. Then we also are designed to support the church specifically by assisting her in presenting every person mature in Christ. That’s our mission statement, right out of Colossians 128. And everything we do is directed toward that, helping people know Jesus better, through a radical consistency to scripture. So that’s our all-encompassing idea, and we want you to be part of that too, everybody who’s listening. So one way to do that is, come to an event. We’d be happy to meet you. Camden Bucey: 09:08 So brothers, one thing that’s important know about our Lord Jesus, is that he was perfect, he was not a sinner. He became sin on our behalf, so that he would also die to sin and triumph over it through his death and resurrection. But he committed no sin. But the question isn’t within orthodoxy, I should say within orthodoxy, the question is not did Christ sin? We’re on a different level if that’s the question we’re going to talk about. Camden Bucey: 09:36 But today, we’re not asking the question did Christ sin? We’re asking the question, was it possible for Christ to sin, and then maybe to put a finer point on it, was it possible for him to sin in his humanity. So those are some of the issues, but Adam I’d like for you to introduce to us, because you brought to us an older article, that that’s now been collected into book form, we’re reading it on Google books, by the Reverend [F. W. Kramer 00:10:07], The Impeccability Of The Lord Jesus Christ. It appeared, I believe, if my info is correct here, in the reformed quarterly review, volume 26, April 1879. Camden Bucey: 10:20 So Adam, how’d you find this, and why has this been on your mind lately? Adam York: 10:25 Well yes, and so it’s an older article, but it’s a good article. And the reason why I came to this brothers, is because in seminary, going back to my seminary days, I can remember my beloved professor Dr. Robert Strimple, addressing this topic. He spoke about it in his lecture notes. And we might also get a link to that, I think that is available online, that may be helpful. Camden Bucey: 10:57 I’m listening to a class of his now, I’ve imported into one of my apps on my phone, and that’s kind of my running listening and driving listening now. He’s brilliant, love Dr. Strimple. Adam York: 11:11 Now with respect to this question, unfortunately he decided, or fortunately, whatever way you want to look at it, I don’t believe he actually lectures on this topic on the MP3’s, he gave an outline. Most of the outline is kind of fill in the blank, very scant. But this section on impeccability is completely filled out, his full thoughts on this. And he simply assigned it as a matter of required reading to show up on the test, but because not being able to cover everything in class, he picked and chose. Adam York: 11:49 But I found him to be imminently clear, as always very good. And I didn’t really give it much more thought, until I got into the pastorate, and I found that I would make just really occasional references to Christ’s impeccability, not only that he was sinless, but that he was unable to sin, and it was a little befuddling to people, they weren’t sure about that. Is that right? Is that orthodox? Do we really hold to that? So I found the need to go into a little more depth on it, at least on a pastoral level. And I’ll just sort of stop at that. There’s more I could say, but it- Camden Bucey: 12:39 Well it’s an important point, and it is kind of befuddling to many of the people in churches, but not just the members in churches, but also ministers and others. There is debate about this issue, and very well respected men, people that we look up to in many ways, and people that are very reliable theologians, have even had different answers to this. Camden Bucey: 13:02 We hope to discuss this, you know, with great charity today. But Adam shared with us a video clip from a 2012 Ligonier event, where R. C. Sproul and Sinclair Ferguson were speaking on this issue, and taking the view that we would not hold. So this isn’t to say that everyone has the same view top to bottom, even within our [inaudible 00:13:25] circles as it were, but that there are some differences. But we want to raise that issue and start to look into this, and see not only what people’s answers are to the questions, but maybe some of their motivation for answering that way. And then, when we start to unpack this, you know, at a very deep level, I hope that we can see and arrive at a more consistent systematic theology. Camden Bucey: 13:50 It’s not only the answers that we provide, but we need to be thoroughly reformed in the way we get there, in our method. And I think what we may find when we start to look at people who want to affirm the impeccability of our Lord’s humanity, that the conclusions are arising from a slight misstep in the way they consider our Lord in his divine human nature. Adam York: 14:16 We could say that they arrived at their conclusion perhaps out of a legitimate concern, and that is that they think that the doctorate of the impeccability of the Lord Jesus Christ undermines the reality of his temptations. In other words, the temptations become a show, a charade if you will, a farce or a sham, I think some of the words that appear in the article. Camden Bucey: 14:48 Or make him somehow subhuman. We wan to to affirm entirely that Christ has assumed a true full human nature. A true body and a reasonable soul. Adam York: 15:02 And the charge that kind of bubbles up to the surface, both in the Kramer article and interestingly in Dr. Sproul’s concern. And look, I love Dr. Sproul, learned so much from him. But I think I’d have to part ways from him on this, but the concern is that if you affirm an impeccable Christ, you’re affirming a docetic Christ, docetic in he only appeared to be [inaudible 00:15:34]. Camden Bucey: 15:36 And the other side is, we also don’t want to affirm a Nestorian Christ, or a Nestorian Christ. Adam York: 15:41 Exactly. Camden Bucey: 15:43 So if we want to throw terms out there, we can play that game. Adam York: 15:49 Our argument in a nutshell, is going to be, and this is probably important so that folks don’s lose the forest for the trees, our argument has to do with the hypostatic union and the integrity of the person of Christ. And so if you go down this road, you end up sundering, and that’s the reference to Nestorianism, but you end up separating the divine and human nature, so that they’re no longer united in one person. Camden Bucey: 16:22 Let’s back up a little bit, we’ll slow down and start walking into this, because these are all the things at stake, and I hope people are interested in this and realize the significance of what we’re speaking about. This is very important material. Camden Bucey: 16:35 So impeccability here is this idea that Christ, not only he didn’t sin, but also that he is unable to sin in his human nature. But here let’s speak about the hypostatic union. Maybe Jeff, you can describe to us very briefly what the hypostatic union is and sketch that out for us, so that we have all of these proper categories, orthodox, confessional, ecumenical categories in our minds. Jeff Waddington: 17:01 So the hypostatic union is the belief that the Son of God, the Word in John Chapter one, took the second person of the Trinity, the trine, in God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, became incarnate, that is in time, took to himself to use the language of the Westminster Standards and earlier doctoral standards, a true body and a reasonable soul. So that in one person, so we don’t have a schizophrenic Christ, we have one person with two natures. Those two natures, the human and the divine are able to retain their properties and integrity, all the while being united in one person. And so we can say things about the person, that may seem odd if- Jeff Waddington: 18:00 That may seem odd if we were just to think about the natures. In other words, Paul, I think in Acts Chapter 2 talks about God shedding his blood. Of course, God as a spirit doesn’t have a body apart from the incarnation, and therefore, has no blood to shed. But that’s because Paul is talking about, has in view the incarnation of the son of God and his death on the cross Jeff Waddington: 18:28 Sometimes we’ll say that that’s speaking improperly. Doesn’t mean wrongly. It just means improperly in terms of technical understanding of these matters. So you have the two natures in the one person. Remember that the person of the son, there’s not two persons. It’s the … Make sure I get this right, Camden. There is the an-hypostatic and then there’s the en-hypostatic. Camden Bucey: 19:02 Yeah, it’s basically the similar idea. I think the positive one being a negator. The ‘an’ is the negative. Jeff Waddington: 19:10 That is the human nature of Christ didn’t exist apart from the union. Camden Bucey: 19:14 Right. Right. Yes. Jeff Waddington: 19:15 And The person of the son, that is t

Buswell and Van Til

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 04:00:11 -0400

David Owen Filson joins us to speak about Dr. J. Oliver Buswell, theologian and former president of Wheaton College and Covenant College and Seminary. Buswell was involved with the early modernist-fundamentalist controversy and the founding of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, though he joined the Bible Presbyterian Church when it split with the fledgling OPC over premillennialism and teetotalism. He continued to be an interlocutor with members of the OPC and faculty at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. Interestingly, he coined the term “presuppositionalism” while debating with Cornelius Van Til over apologetic and theological method. Dr. Filson is teaching pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee. He previously spoke on the subject in episode 316, January 17, 2014.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jeff Waddington

Vos Group #47 — The Place of Prophetism in Old Testament Revelation

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 04:00:01 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series in pages 185–188 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the unfolding of God’s plan as it moves from the period under Moses to that of the prophets. Prophetism marks an epochal movement in OT revelation. In other words, the “new happenings” of God’s mighty deeds in redemptive revelation bring enduring advancement toward consummation—each epoch builds upon and brings advancement to what has proceeded. The new feature is “the organization of the theocratic kingdom under a human ruler” (185). God is seeking to confer himself on a holy people through a holy king in a holy theocratic realm. As such, Prophetism is a “Kingdom-Producing Movement (186–187). This is a critical point to grasp: prophetism is attached to the advancement of the theocratic kingdom. Prophetism therefore has no independent significance. Its entire rationale grows out of the producing and advancement of the theocratic kingdom of Jehovah. This comes into even greater clarity as we recognize that the Word is the instrument of Prophetism (187–88). The essence, formally, of prophetism is that it “restricts” itself to the Word of God—the Word from the mouth of Jehovah. The Word of God “in reality did more than anything else towards the spiritualizing of the relation between Jehovah and Israel” (187).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Trinity, Language, and Human Behavior

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 04:00:14 -0400

Pierce Taylor Hibbs speaks about language and the Trinity. His book, The Trinity, Language, and Human Behavior: A Reformed Exposition of the Language Theory of Kenneth L. Pike is available in P&R Publishing’s Reformed Academic Dissertations series. Hibbs describes Kenneth Pike’s linguistic theory and compares it to the theology of Cornelius Van Til, demonstrating shared Trinitarian themes. Pierce Hibbs is the Assistant Director of the Theological English Department at Westminster Theological Seminary. He writes at piercetaylorhibbs.com.

The Free Offer of the Gospel

Fri, 22 Jun 2018 04:00:48 -0400

In this episode, we speak about the free offer of the gospel. The real point in dispute in connection with the free offer of the gospel is whether it can properly be said that God desires the salvation of all men. This issue was related to several theological controversies of the 1940s and stemming back decades earlier. Much of this particular issue comes the split of 1924 within the Christian Reformed Church which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Church under the leadership of Herman Hoeksema. For some, the antithesis is so absolutized that there can be no real transition from wrath to grace and no free offer of the gospel. Cornelius Van Til spoke of the antithesis as an ethical rather than metaphysical antithesis. In a letter to Jesse de Boer, he indicated that it was merely another way to speak of total depravity. As we walk through a study committee report delivered to the 15th General Assembly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, we are confronted with the great mystery of God’s will and his infallible revelation to us in Scripture.

The Purposes of the Lord’s Supper

Fri, 15 Jun 2018 04:00:30 -0400

The first paragraph of chapter twenty-nine in the Westminster Confession of Faith sets forth the institution of Lord’s Supper and the uses and ends for which it is designed:

Our Lord Jesus, in the night wherein he was betrayed, instituted the sacrament of his body and blood, called the Lord’s Supper, to be observed in his church, unto the end of the world, for the perpetual remembrance of the sacrifice of himself in his death; the sealing all benefits thereof unto true believers, their spiritual nourishment and growth in him, their further engagement in and to all duties which they owe unto him; and, to be a bond and pledge of their communion with him, and with each other, as members of his mystical body.

In this episode, we discuss the five purposes of the Lord’s Supper detailed in the confession:

Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper as a commemorative ordinance for the perpetual remembrance of the sacrifice of himself in his death.
The Lord’s Supper is a confirmatory sign (cf. Rom. 4:11) for the purpose of sealing all the benefits procured by Christ’s death unto true believers.
Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper for the spiritual nourishment and growth of believers in him.
Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper for believers for their further engagement in and to all duties which they owe unto him.
Finally, Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper to be a bond and pledge of believers’ communion with him, and with each other, as members of his mystical body.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #46 — Summary of Revelation in the Period of Moses

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 04:00:11 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series in pages 175–182 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider ancestor worship and animism before moving to a summary of Part I of the entire book and specifically, revelation during the period of Moses. The movement from the Abrahamic to the Mosaic is a movement from lesser to greater directness of access to God. This “greater access” appears especially when we consider what Vos called the “typical proportions” that Moses acquires in an “unusual degree” of Moses. And Exodus 32–34 is key in this regard. Not only does Moses offer himself vicariously to make atonement for sin (Ex. 32:30–33), illustrating the Melchizedekian priesthood of Christ, but he gains access to God in an unprecedented way. God promises Moses “the divine presence and rest” in the land (33:12–14). God speaks to Moses “face-to-face (33:11)” in the tent of meeting and shows Moses his “glory” as he hides him in the cleft of the rock and declares his name (33:14-20). What Abraham saw in the form of a smoking firepot and a blazing torch, Moses sees in fellowship on a mountain—a mountain that looks back to the mountain of Eden and upward and forward to Mount Zion. The essence of the covenant bond—the secret of God’s friendship—is with Moses in a unique way, as a sort of first-fruits in the Old Covenant. Moses sees God, knows God, fellowships with God. In fact, Exodus 34:27ff. Moses is on the mountain with God for 40 days and nights without food or water and his transformed in his countenance. He does not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. A second major theme that Vos develops is that the tabernacle is a concentrated theocracy. That is to say, the tabernacle dwelling of God is the end to which the entire Exodus aspires–the reality to which it is directed. Finally, all of this conspires to help us recognize that the sacrificial system is a means to a higher end of fellowship with God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Theology of Ebenezer Erskine

Fri, 01 Jun 2018 04:00:54 -0400

We speak with Dr. Stephen G. Myers about Ebenezer Erskine and the important events of Presbyterian history with which he was involved.Dr. Myers is Professor of Historical Theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. In his book, Scottish Federalism and Covenantalism in Transition: The Theology of Ebenezer Erskine, he touches upon many significant issues, including the Marrow Controversy, the relationship of law and grace, covenant theology, and church-state relations. In learning about this era of Presbyterian history, we come to understand how Erskine also serves to refine modern understandings of still controversial theological issues.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Stephen Myers

Pastoral Care During the Reformation

Fri, 25 May 2018 04:00:33 -0400

William VanDoodewaard speaks to us about Martin Bucer, John Knox, and the development of pastoral care during the Reformation. Dr. VanDoodewaard is professor of church history at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is the author of 1 & 2 Peter: Feed My Sheep (Welwyn Commentary Series), The Quest for the Historical Adam, and The Marrow Controversy and Seceder Tradition.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, William VanDoodewaard

Karl Marx

Fri, 18 May 2018 04:00:36 -0400

Bill Dennison speaks about Karl Marx, leading us through his biography, influences, and his intellectual effects upon social and political history. Dr. Dennison is Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Covenant College and the author of Karl Marx in P&R Publishing’s Great Thinkers series.

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Reformation Worship: Liturgies from the Past for the Present

Fri, 11 May 2018 04:00:09 -0400

Jonathan Gibson and Mark Earngey speak about Reformation worship. Their new book Reformation Worship: Liturgies from the Past for the Present, is an irenic plea for the Church (and especially her ministers) to engage again in the two-millennia-old question: “How then shall we worship?” Along with chapters on the Scriptural and historical basis for Reformed worship, Gibson and Earngey include twenty-six Reformation era liturgies modernized and newly translated. Dr. Gibson is Assistant Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew, Westminster Theological Seminary. Mr. Earngey is a doctoral candidate in historical theology at Wycliffe Hall, University of Oxford.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jonathan Gibson, Mark Earngey

The Nature of Apostasy in Hebrews 6

Fri, 04 May 2018 04:00:11 -0400

Hebrews 6 has been a challenging passage to interpret for ages. What does it mean to fall away? What is the specific nature of the apostasy? Do majority interpretations do justice to all the features of the text? In this episode, we present a redemptive-historical interpretation of the text, identifying the apostasy as a desire for New Covenant members to revert to the Old Covenant. In effect, such apostates desire to move from the mediation of Christ back to the mediation of Moses and its attendant forms of worship.

¹¹ About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. ¹² For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, ¹³ for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. ¹⁴ But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil. ¹ Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, ² and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. ³ And this we will do if God permits. ⁴ For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, ⁵ and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, ⁶ and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt. ⁷ For land that has drunk the rain that often falls on it, and produces a crop useful to those for whose sake it is cultivated, receives a blessing from God. ⁸ But if it bears thorns and thistles, it is worthless and near to being cursed, and its end is to be burned. ⁹ Though we speak in this way, yet in your case, beloved, we feel sure of better things—things that belong to salvation. ¹⁰ For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. ¹¹ And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, (Hebrews 5:11–6:11, ESV)

Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 04:00:21 -0400

Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy discuss Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah. The overwhelming message of these books is “strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,” as Thomas O. Chisholm wrote in the hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness.” He based his beloved hymn upon Lamentations 3:22–23: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah are rich with God’s truth about our sin and need of redemption as well as his love for us in the savior Jesus Christ. Together, these prophets express the pain and suffering of God’s people as they live in a fallen world. The people suffer at the hands of their enemies, which have been sent by the Lord himself. But they are not without hope, because God uses this form of fatherly discipline to sanctify and restore them. Camden recently wrote a 12-week study on the books for Crossway’s Knowing the Bible series. For a week beginning April 27, 2018, Westminster Books will be running a sale on books in the series. Visit wtsbooks.com/knowingthebible this week for approximately 20% savings on single volumes and 40% on 5-packs.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Spirituality of the Church in the Ecclesiology of Charles Hodge

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 04:00:33 -0400

Alan Strange speaks about the doctrine of the spirituality of the church in the ecclesiology of Charles Hodge and how it was formed in the years leading up to and during the American Civil War. Dr. Strange’s dissertation on the topic has been published in P&R Publishing’s Reformed Academic Dissertations series as The Doctrine of the Spirituality of the Church in the Ecclesiology of Charles Hodge. Dr. Strange previously addressed the topic in episode 443 of Christ the Center, but in this episode, we focus more on the Presbyterian General Assemblies and how they wrestled with the theological and political issues surrounding the war.

Participants: Alan Strange, Camden Bucey

Vos Group #45 — Excursus: Reformed Dogmatics

Fri, 13 Apr 2018 04:00:34 -0400

Vos Group takes an excursus to discuss Vos’s Reformed Dogmatics. In this series, like all of his works, Vos presents the “deeper Protestant conception” of covenantal union and communion with the Triune God. We discuss how the immutable Creator does not change in the freely willed “new relation” to creation—only creation does, and that the Roman Catholic view of the image cannot deliver the “essence” of religion, which is communion with God.

Reading Van Til, Evangelicals & Catholicism, and African Ontology & Epistemology

Fri, 06 Apr 2018 04:00:31 -0400

In this episode, we answer questions from our listeners and discuss a few things we’ve been contemplating recently. We discuss a proposed reading list for the works of Cornelius Van Til, worshiping on Sunday, Evangelicals and Catholics Together, and African worldview and theology. It’s a wide-ranging conversation and one we hope you enjoy.

Dissertations/Theses Mentioned

Leonardo de Chirico, Evangelical theological perspectives on post-Vatican II Roman Catholicism
Trevor H. G. Smith, Christian Theology Emerging from the Akan Single-Tiered Unitive Perspective on Reality

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Eden, Canaan, and the Heavenly Temple Dwelling of God

Fri, 30 Mar 2018 04:00:35 -0400

Eden and Canaan are earthly projections that both reveal yet veil the glory of the heavenly dwelling place of God. Had Adam passed probation, he would have been translated into the highest heavens in the presence of God where he would enter Sabbath Rest (Genesis 2/Ez. 28:14 and the mountain of God). When Christ finished his wilderness sojourn, he ascended into that very reality of Sabbath Rest—rest the first Adam did not enter (Heb. 1:3; 8:2, 5; 9:23–24; 10:12; 12:24; 4:9–10). Christ, as ascended, has entered rest—a rest he in the process of conferring on the church in this age (4:3) and will bring to consummation in the age to come (4:9–11). The whole point of the land of Canaan in Hebrews—the way it relates to this big-picture creational concern—is that it was a place of rest (Psalm 95:7–11 is quoted in Hebrews 3:7–11). Israel was seeking to leave the wilderness and enter into the “rest” of God in Canaan. Canaan was a local, earthly expression of a corresponding heavenly Sabbath Rest (95:11/Genesis 2:2 as the two theme texts in Hebrews 3 and 4). Canaan was an earthly type of Sabbath Rest, and some in Israel failed to enter the earthly typical land of rest because they lacked faith in the promised Messiah (Heb. 3:19). In a parallel way, the author of Hebrews grounds his exhortation that the church in this age press on to Sabbath Rest by faith in the ascended Messiah, so that none of us fail to enter that Rest.

Theophany: A Biblical Theology of God’s Appearing

Fri, 23 Mar 2018 04:00:05 -0400

Dr. Vern Poythress speaks with us about his book, Theophany: A Biblical Theology of God’s Appearing, published by Crossway. Each time God appears to his people throughout the Bible—in the form of a thunderstorm, a man, a warrior, a chariot, etc.—he comes to a specific person for a specific purpose. And each of these temporary appearances— called theophanies—helps us to better understand who he is, anticipating his climactic, permanent self-revelation in the incarnation of Christ. Describing the various accounts of God’s visible presence from Genesis to Revelation, Dr. Poythress helps us consider more deeply what they reveal about who God is and how he dwells with us today. We also spoke about the upcoming Westminster Conference on Science & Faith to be held April 6–7, 2018 at Proclamation Presbyterian Church in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania (see map). They will explore the relationship between theistic evolution and the Christian faith. Register at wcosaf.com. Dr. Poythress is Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary in Glenside, Pennsylvania.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Vern Poythress

How the Second Century Shaped the Future of the Church

Fri, 16 Mar 2018 04:00:37 -0400

Michael J. Kruger joins us to speak about his book, Christianity at the Crossroads: How the Second Century Shaped the Future of the Church in which he examines how Christianity took root in the second century, how it battled to stay true to the vision of the apostles, and how it developed in ways that would shape both the church and Western culture over the next two thousand years. Dr. Kruger is President and Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. He is the author of several books including, Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books (Crossway, 2012), The Early Text of the New Testament (Oxford, 2012; edited with Charles Hill), and The Question of Canon: Challenging the Status Quo in the New Testament Debate.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Michael Kruger

Karl Barth and the Incarnation

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 05:00:50 -0400

Jim Cassidy discusses Darren O. Sumner’s book, Karl Barth and the Incarnation: Christology and the Humility of God. Dr. Cassidy wrote a review article on the book in the Fall 2017 issue (Vol. 79, No. 2) of the Westminster Theological Journal.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #44 — Totemism

Fri, 02 Mar 2018 05:00:34 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series in pages 174–175 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider totemism and Vos’s deep critique of biblicistic modernism. Totemism seeks to explain the distinction between the clean and the unclean by way of “a form of superstition” rooted in “savage tribes and families” who offered worship to certain animals and plants. Biblicism is any approach to reading Scripture that does not take the creeds and confessions of the church as normed norms that faithfully and accurately reflect the teaching of Scripture, over against heresy and heterodoxy as it has arisen in various forms. You can be either a liberal or conservative, and you can still be a biblicist—it is no respecter of persons in that regard. Modernism is that movement associated with the Enlightenment, rooted in Kantian philosophy, that seeks a de-supernaturalized history understood as a neutral realm of facts that leads toward an ethical ideal of true humanity (Schleiermacher is central in this regard). Modernists also take the Bible to be like any other historically conditioned book and thus an expression of community biography, rather than a history of progressive, organic, supernatural, covenantal revelation. In other words, modernism represents a neutral, anti-supernaturalistic, religion of ethics. It is Pelagianism come to historical self-consciousness—or come to consciousness of a purely immanent, natural, philosophy of history (Albrect Ritschl is a key figure here).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Drama of Preaching

Fri, 23 Feb 2018 05:00:28 -0400

Dr. Eric Watkins, Pastor of Covenant OPC in St. Augustine, Florida, joins Jim Cassidy, Chris Hartshorn, and Dale Van Dyke for a discussion on his book, The Drama of Preaching: Participating with God in the History of Redemption. Dr. Watkins explains how the idea of drama informs our understanding of peaching. Preaching is the telling of God’s drama of redemption in which believers find themselves as active participants. He further explains how the drama motif gives the church a ready entry point with a postmodern world in which story is so highly valued.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Hartshorn, Dale Van Dyke, Eric Watkins, Jim Cassidy

A Revelation-Historical Interpretation of Romans 3:21–26

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 05:00:45 -0400

Dr. Marcus Mininger, Associate Professor of New Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, speaks about the theme of revelation in the book of Romans. In his book, Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26: Discovering a New Approach to Paul’s Argument (Mohr Siebeck), Dr. Mininger argues for approaching Romans 1–3 through a new interpretive paradigm that features revelation over reading Paul’s words primarily through a soteriological or sociological framework. In this fourth episode of a brief series with Dr. Mininger, we look into a revelation-historical interpretation of Romans 3:21–26 and draw several conclusions in summary to our entire discussion.

Listen to the Series

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Marcus Mininger

The Life of E. J. Young

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 05:00:18 -0400

Danny Olinger speaks about the life of E. J. Young, long-time Professor of Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary. Davis Young has written a wonderful biography of his father, For Me to Live Is Christ: The Life of Edward J. Young, published by the Christian Education Committee of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Rev. Olinger serves as the General Secretary for the Committee.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

Vos Group #43 — Uncleanness and Purification

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 05:00:14 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series in pages 173–174 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider uncleanness and purification, a deep structure of Scripture, what Vos says, “forms a fundamental conception, which . . . has entered into the permanent fabric of biblical religion.”

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

A Revelation-Historical Interpretation of Romans 3:1–20

Fri, 26 Jan 2018 05:00:15 -0400

Dr. Marcus Mininger, Associate Professor of New Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, speaks about the theme of revelation in the book of Romans. In his book, Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26: Discovering a New Approach to Paul’s Argument (Mohr Siebeck), Dr. Mininger argues for approaching Romans 1–3 through a new interpretive paradigm that features revelation over reading Paul’s words primarily through a soteriological or sociological framework. In this third episode of a brief series with Dr. Mininger, we look into a revelation-historical interpretation of Romans 3.

Listen to the Series

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Marcus Mininger

A Revelation-Historical Interpretation of Romans 2:1–29

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 05:00:15 -0400

Dr. Marcus Mininger, Associate Professor of New Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, speaks about the theme of revelation in the book of Romans. In his book, Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26: Discovering a New Approach to Paul’s Argument (Mohr Siebeck), Dr. Mininger argues for approaching Romans 1–3 through a new interpretive paradigm that features revelation over reading Paul’s words primarily through a soteriological or sociological framework. In this second episode of a brief series with Dr. Mininger, we look into a revelation-historical interpretation of Romans 2.

Listen to the Series

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Marcus Mininger

Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 05:00:22 -0400

Listen to the Series

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Marcus Mininger

Vos Group #42 — The Variety of Offerings

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 05:00:48 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series starting on page 170–172 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the variety of Old Testament offerings and sacrifices. Vos addresses the different types of offerings and how they relate to one another and to the eschatological plan of salvation in Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Highlights from 2017

Fri, 29 Dec 2017 05:00:12 -0400

For those of you who’ve been with us for some time know we like to take an hour or so at the end of the year to look back on everything we did. Today, we’ve selected ten clips from the episodes we released in 2017. We spoke with many people and had many fascinating conversations. I hope we’ll pique your interest, and you’ll go back to listen to many of the full conversations represented by these highlights.

2017 was another blessed year at Reformed Forum. We’ve had close to half a million downloads so far this year from 115 different countries. We published our first book, No Uncertain Sound and sent out more than 1,000 copies. We hosted our fourth annual theology conference, this year on the subject of The Reformation of Apologetics. We opened an online store at reformedforum.org/store with merchandise and hard-to-find editions of significant Reformed books—many of them first editions and some even signed by the author.

We’re so thankful for all of you and will continue to try to serve you by providing Reformed theological resources however we can. At the end of this year, please help us out by visiting reformedforum.org/donate. Many of you have already responded generously to our previous appeals, but we can still use your help. Our board has scheduled a strategy summit for this coming year, and we are thinking and praying about our next steps. We would love to move Reformed Forum to the next level, a new chapter in its life of service to the Church. Please help us begin to realize this as we enter 2018.

We’re looking forward to another full year of Christ the Center. January 25 will mark our 10th anniversary. Jeff, Jim, and I recorded that first episode during my first year in seminary—three homes and three children ago. Things have changed over the years, but our mission has stayed the same—to advance Christian education by helping you learn more about Christ and the Reformed tradition that we believe faithfully upholds his gospel.

—Camden Bucey

Episodes

474 — Ryan McGraw, John Owen and Reformed Orthodox Trinitarian Theology
476 — Peter Gurry, The Coherence-Based Genealogical Method
478 — William Edgar, A Biblical Theology of Culture
482 — Scott Oliphint, The Majesty of Mystery
483 — Kevin Chiarot, T. F. Torrance and Apostolic Succession
489 — Charles Williams, The Life and Theology of Augustine
493 — Darryl Hart, Machen and the Media
496 — Brandon Crowe, Fulfillment in Matthew
503 — Bob Cara, Cracking the Foundation of the New Perspective on Paul
510 — Chad Van Dixhoorn, The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Charles Williams, Darryl G. Hart, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, K. Scott Oliphint, Kevin Chiarot, Peter Gurry, Robert Cara, Ryan McGraw, William Edgar

Epistemology, Antithesis, and Revelation in the Book of Proverbs

Fri, 22 Dec 2017 05:01:39 -0400

In this episode, Rev. Andrew Compton, Assistant Professor of Old Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, speaks about the book of Proverbs. While many have approached Proverbs as a source for personal guidance or a collection of general life lessons, Compton argues that Proverbs possesses a canonical awareness and presents itself as the divinely inspired source of true wisdom, as well as the infallible norm for the wisdom of God, against which all other so-called “wisdom” must be tested.

Participants: Andrew Compton, Camden Bucey

Warfield and True Church Unity

Fri, 15 Dec 2017 05:00:34 -0400

Jeff Stivason joins us to speak about his article, “Benjamin B. Warfield and True Church Unity,” published in the Westminster Theological Journal 79 (2017): 327–43. He argues that Warfield developed a theology that requires the existence of denominations. Jeff is pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church (RPCNA) in Gibsonia, Pennsylvania and has joined us previously to speak about Warfield on the mode of inspiration.

Abstract

This article examines Benjamin B. Warfield’s view of church unity. Though the research explores the entire corpus of Warfield’s body of work, the primary exploration encompasses the exegesis of two articles that are almost identical and yet separated by fourteen years, “True Church Unity: What It Is,” and “Christian Unity and Church Union; Some Primary Principles.” The teaching of these writings substantiate the following claim: the progressive and constructive nature of Warfield’s understanding of theology requires the existence of denominations. The article proceeds in the following manner. First, the research focuses on Warfield’s understanding of what church unity was not according to the apostolic church. Second, having understood the unity in the negative, the article moves on to observe the ground and nature of ecclesiastical unity in the apostolic church as understood by Warfield. The third point explores the progressive and constructive nature of systematic theology and how it applies to Warfield’s understanding of ecclesiastical unity. In this point, the idea of unity and the legitimacy of denominational separation is explored and substantiated from Warfield’s perspective. The fourth and final point gives attention to the minimalism that has the power to eclipse the church’s visible unity. In particular, the failure to engage in theological inquiry grounded upon the Scriptures will hinder and even destroy the unity of the church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Stivason, Jeff Waddington

Hermeneutics in Light of Christ’s Relationship to His Body

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 05:00:33 -0400

Matthew Patton speaks about Augustine’s hermeneutical principle totus Christus, which recognizes an interpretive role for the Church in that the “whole Christ” (head and body) serves as the eschatological fulfillment of the Old Testament. Dr. Patton delivered a paper titled, “Totus Christus as Hermeneutical Key for a Christian Reading of Jeremiah,” at the 2017 National Convention of the Evangelical Theological Society. Rev. Dr. Patton is the pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Vandalia, Ohio. Dr. Patton is the author of Deuteronomy: A 12-Week Study in Crossway’s Knowing the Bible series.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Matthew Patton

Vos Group #41 — The Meaning of Covering

Fri, 01 Dec 2017 05:00:03 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series starting on page 166 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the meaning of covering. Vos focuses on the meaning of expiation and demonstrates how the blood of Jesus functions with reference to sin. God covers, takes away, and obliterates the sin of his elect.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Jonathan Edwards on God’s Involvement in Creation

Fri, 24 Nov 2017 05:00:12 -0400

Jeff Waddington speaks about his chapter in the new festschrift for Vern Poythress, Redeeming the Life of the Mind (Crossway). Jeff’s chapter, titled, “Jonathan Edwards on God’s Involvement in Creation,” is an examination of “Miscellanies,” no. 1263. Jeff examines four theological and philosophical themes in Edwards’s doctrine: Trinitarian-theistic idealism, occasionalism, and continuous creation. A fourth element in Edwards’s understanding of God’s relation to creation is his apparent embrace of the analogia entis or chain of being.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

The Tree of Life and the Covenant of Works

Fri, 17 Nov 2017 05:00:04 -0400

What did the Tree of Life symbolize in the Garden of Eden? Why does it reappear in Revelation 2:7 and 22:2? We discuss the symbolism of the tree and the eschatological mode of life it signifies and seals.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

The Eschatology of the Image of God

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 05:00:38 -0400

We speak about God’s original intent for the image of God and how his offer to Adam in the garden was of a higher, consummate mode of life.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington

Vos Group #40 — Vicariousness Defined

Fri, 03 Nov 2017 04:00:56 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 165–166 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the definition of vicariousness. Orthodox Christianity recognizes the vicariousness of Christ’s life and death for sinners, but what does that mean precisely? Geerhardus Vos explores several possibilities and offers the best biblical option for understanding how Jesus lived, suffered, and died for his people.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Van Til and Scholasticism

Fri, 27 Oct 2017 04:00:40 -0400

This episode was recorded just prior to our 2017 Theology Conference on The Reformation of Apologetics. We discuss the theological approach of scholasticism as it pertains to Thomas Aquinas, the Reformers, and Cornelius Van Til.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Herman Bavinck’s Trinitarian Theology and Organic Apologetic

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 04:00:31 -0400

Dan Ragusa speaks about Herman Bavinck’s Trinitarian theology and its implications for a revelational epistemology and worldview. Bavinck argues for an organic connection between general and special revelation, which results in a “triniformity” in both.

Apologetics and the Five Solas

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 04:00:38 -0400

This episode was recorded live at our 2017 Theology Conference on The Reformation of Apologetics. In celebration of the five-hundredth anniversary of the Reformation and the thirtieth anniversary of the death of Cornelius Van Til, we consider the connection between Reformed apologetics and the five solas. The solas summarize the theological principles of the Reformation, and while one may not consider apologetics to be a major discipline of the Reformation, we seek to show how the Reformation dictates a consistent apologetic method. We contend that to be a covenantal apologist, one must be a Reformed theologian. Moreover, to be a consistent Reformed theologian, one must be a covenantal apologist.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit, 1643–1653

Fri, 06 Oct 2017 04:00:33 -0400

Today we welcome Chad Van Dixhoorn to speak about his book, God’s Ambassadors: The Westminster Assembly and the Reformation of the English Pulpit, 1643–1653 in which he describes how the assembly brought much-needed reform to the theology and practice of pulpit ministry. Dr. Van Dixhoorn is Associate Professor of Church History at Reformed Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. He is a graduate of Westminster Theological Seminary (MDiv, ThM) and the University of Cambridge (PhD). He was featured on Christ the Center episode 134 and episode 342 and in episode 507 with his wife, Emily.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #39 — The Stages of the Sacrificial Ritual

Fri, 29 Sep 2017 04:00:29 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 161–165 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the stages of ritual sacrifice.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Image of God: Then and Now

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 04:00:45 -0400

Camden Bucey and Jeff Waddington discuss the image of God and whether man retains the image after the fall into sin. Man was made in the image of God, yet there has been a change in humanity that was brought about through the Fall into sin. We must negotiate what that change entails and whether or not it has led to a loss of the image.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Studying the Confession of Faith

Fri, 15 Sep 2017 04:01:52 -0400

Chad and Emily Van Dixhoorn visit Christ the Center to speak about Confessing the Faith: Study Guide. This is a helpful guide to Confessing the Faith: A Reader’s Guide to the Westminster Confession (Banner of Truth Trust, 2014), which is itself a thorough help for understanding the Westminster Confession of Faith. Emily Van Dixhoorn graduated from Brown University as a math major and from Westminster Theological Seminary with an MAR. Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn is Associate Professor of Church History at Reformed Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. He is a graduate of Westminster Theological Seminary (MDiv, ThM) and the University of Cambridge (PhD). He is the editor of The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly, 1643-1653 and he was featured on Christ the Center episode 134 and episode 342. Chad and Emily have five children.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Emily Van Dixhoorn, Glen Clary

The Work of Prayer: An Exercise in Helplessness

Fri, 08 Sep 2017 04:00:15 -0400

Glen Clary and Camden Bucey discuss Ole Hallesby’s classic book on prayer. Hallesby was a Norwegian Lutheran, who taught at the Free University of Oslo. He wrote over sixty books in his lifetime, including his excellent book, Prayer. While this book is a twentieth-century classic, it is relatively unknown and unread in Reformed circles. We hope this discussion on prayer will compel you to consider more deeply the important work of prayer.

The Prophet Hosea

Fri, 01 Sep 2017 04:00:44 -0400

Jim Cassidy speaks about the book of Hosea, exploring the theological themes of covenant and judgment in light of God’s love, faithfulness, and mercy expressed toward faithless sinners.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Reason, Revelation, and Calvin’s View of Natural Theology

Fri, 25 Aug 2017 04:00:07 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey discuss theological methodology in light of Calvin’s view of natural theology. As a starting point for the discussion, they turn to Thiago M. Silva’s article, “John Calvin and the Limits of Natural Theology,” Puritan Reformed Journal 8, 2 (2016): 33-48.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Cracking the Foundation of the New Perspective on Paul

Fri, 18 Aug 2017 04:00:43 -0400

Dr. Robert J. Cara speaks about his book, Cracking the Foundation of the New Perspective on Paul: Covenantal Nomism versus Reformed Covenantal Theology (Mentor, 2017), which is published in the Reformed Exegetical and Doctrinal Series. The New Perspective on Paul is broadly united on its view of the theology contained in Second Temple Jewish literature. Arguing that these documents do not contain a doctrine of works righteousness, Paul certainly cannot be arguing against such a view—quite simply because it didn’t exist.

Dr. Cara examines the Jewish sources and “cracks the foundation” of the NPP by demonstrating how they incorporate meritorious works and thus establish the traditional Protestant view of Paul and his doctrine of justification. Dr. Cara is Provost, Chief Academic Officer, and Hugh and Sallie Reaves Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Robert Cara

Vos Group #38 — The Relation between the Offerer and His Sacrifice

Fri, 11 Aug 2017 04:00:20 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 159–161 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the relation between the offerer and his sacrifice.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Live Q&A Session

Fri, 04 Aug 2017 04:00:55 -0400

We took to Facebook to broadcast a live Q&A session. With questions submitted through email and the live comment thread, we covered Lord’s Day observance, fasting and gluttony, and membership in the New Covenant.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington

Episode 500: Doctrine for Life

Fri, 28 Jul 2017 04:00:22 -0400

We celebrate five-hundred episodes of Christ the Center with an open discussion on worship, the regulative principle, and the apologetic impetus. Join us for a conversation that ties together many of our favorite themes from the past nine+ years.

Vos Group #37 — Offerings, Gifts, and Sacrifices

Fri, 21 Jul 2017 04:00:01 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 157–159 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider offerings, gifts, and sacrifices within the Mosaic economy.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Peter Martyr Vermigli and John Henry Newman on Justification

Fri, 14 Jul 2017 04:00:17 -0400

Chris Castaldo compares the respective doctrines of justification of the Reformer Peter Martyr Vermigli and the Roman Catholic John Henry Cardinal Newman. Castaldo is the author of Justified in Christ: The Doctrines of Peter Martyr Vermigli and John Henry Newman and Their Ecumenical Implications. In the book, he compares the doctrines of the Reformed convert from Catholicism (Vermigli) and the Catholic convert from Anglicanism (Newman), drawing conclusions that prove insightful both for ecumenical dialogue and pastoral ministry.

Rev. Dr. Castaldo serves as Lead Pastor of New Covenant Church in Naperville, Illinois. You can visit him online at chriscastaldo.com.

Books by Chris Castaldo

Previous Episodes with Chris Castaldo

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Castaldo, Jim Cassidy

Dutch Neo-Calvinism and the Roots for Transformation

Fri, 07 Jul 2017 04:00:24 -0400

In June 2011, we spoke with Bill Dennison, Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Covenant College, about Transformationalism and Christian Higher Education. In that episode, we touched upon his article, “Dutch Neo-Calvinism and the Roots for Transformation: An Introductory Essay” from the Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 42/2 (June 1999). We only had a few minutes to discuss the article in episode 180, and so today, we pick up where we left off. Dennison contends that while Dutch neo-Calvinism sought to transform culture in response to the threat of the Enlightenment, they stood upon a foundation of Enlightenment principles to do it. Many of the themes discussed in this episode were developed and applied in our twelve-part series on Christ and Culture, in which Dennison debated Darryl Hart, Nelson Kloosterman, and Doug Wilson.

Previous Episodes with Bill Dennison

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

Fulfillment in Matthew as Eschatological Reversal

Fri, 30 Jun 2017 04:00:46 -0400

We welcome Brandon Crowe back to the program to speak about the gospel of Matthew. Dr. Crowe is assistant professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. He is the author of the article, “Fulfillment in Matthew as Eschatological Reversal” in Westminster Theological Journal 75 (2013), pp. 111–127. Matthew’s use of the Old Testament has perplexed interpreters for years. It is difficult to ascertain precisely how Jesus “fulfills” the prophets in several of Matthew’s references. Dr. Crowe argues that Jesus not only fulfills the Old Testament as the new Israel and consummate Davidic king, but according to Matthew’s formulae, he does so by reversing Israel’s pattern of covenant infidelity.

Other Episodes with Brandon Crowe

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Isaiah and God’s Kingdom

Fri, 23 Jun 2017 04:00:57 -0400

Today, we speak with Andrew Abernethy about his book, The Book of Isaiah and God’s Kingdom: A Thematic-Theological Approach from IVP Academic‘s New Studies in Biblical Theology series. Abernethy contends that thematic points of reference can help one to encounter Isaiah and its rich theological message. Dr. Abernethy is Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College. He is the author of Eating in Isaiah: Approaching Food and Drink in Isaiah’s Structure and Message and coeditor of Isaiah and Imperial Context: The Book of Isaiah in Times of Empire.

Rob McKenzie hosts the interview with Dr. Abernethy. And so in the episode, we also took the opportunity to speak about the latest addition to our podcast family, Theology Simply Profound, which he produces with Bob Tarullo. Rob and Camden speak about the program and how it fits within our lineup, helping us to bring Reformed theology to more people. Rob is sales representative for trade, academic, and special markets at IVP and a distance student at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida.

Participants: Andrew Abernethy, Camden Bucey, Rob McKenzie

Discontent in the Ministry

Fri, 16 Jun 2017 04:00:55 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey revisit Paul Woolley’s article, “Discontent!” as it pertains to the ministry of the church. Woolley presents two forms of discontent in the church that lead either to pursuing a worldly or Christ-centered agenda. While Woolley wrote in 1944, his lessons are just as applicable today. Dr. Woolley was a founding faculty member of Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia and taught at the seminary from 1929 until his retirement in 1977. He also became a member of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church upon its founding in 1936.

At the end of the episode, Jonathan Brack shares several fascinating stories about the early professors, such as Paul Woolley and John Murray, at Westminster Theological Seminary.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Jonathan Brack

Machen and the Media

Fri, 09 Jun 2017 04:00:50 -0400

Darryl G. Hart speaks about J. Gresham Machen and his use of media throughout the modernist-fundamentalist controversy. Westminster Seminary Press has recently published a series of radio addresses by Machen titled, The Person of Jesus.

Hart is Distinguished Associate Professor of History at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan. He is the author of numerous books, including Defending the Faith, Calvinism: A History, and Damning Words.

Previous Episodes with D. G. Hart

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart

Vos Group #36 — The Sacrificial System of the Law

Fri, 02 Jun 2017 04:00:36 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 155–157 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the sacrificial system of the law. Vos describes two main ends of sacrifices—expiation and consecration—and how they relate to one another. God desires to establish a covenant communion bond with a holy people. This relationship is served fundamentally by consecration even before the fall into sin. Yet once sin enters the world, the Lord must deal with it. Christ does so by offering a perfect sacrifice in his own blood. This perfect sacrifice is typified in the Old Testament sacrificial system.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Role of Ephraim in Judges

Fri, 26 May 2017 04:00:35 -0400

On this episode, we open to the book of Judges with our guest, William Wood. Mr. Wood is a PhD student in Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He challenges the conventional wisdom that the author of Judges exhibits an anti-Ephraimite stance exclusively. Will joined us previously to speak about Ephesians 6:10–17 and a Biblical Theology of Clothing.

Download the Judges and Ephraim chart mentioned in the episode.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Will Wood

Prison Ministry

Fri, 19 May 2017 04:00:54 -0400

Brett Mahlen speaks about his ministry to inmates at the Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill, Illinois.

Participants: A. Craig Troxel, Brett Mahlen, Camden Bucey, Charles Williams, Robert Tarullo

The Life and Theology of Augustine

Fri, 12 May 2017 04:00:04 -0400

Charles Williams speaks about the life and theology of one of Christianity’s greatest figures, Augustine. Mr. Williams is Associate Pastor at Bethel OPC in Wheaton, Illinois.

WTSBooks.com has generously offered a copy of Augustine’s The Trinity for a giveaway. This is a handsome edition from New City Press. To enter your name for the giveaway, please signup for our email list. We’ll email the winner.

Participants: A. Craig Troxel, Camden Bucey, Charles Williams, Robert Tarullo

Reformed Spirituality

Fri, 05 May 2017 04:00:40 -0400

Christ the Center hits the road for a series of episodes at Bethel OPC in Wheaton, Illinois. In our first of the series, A. Craig Troxel speaks about Reformed spirituality. Dr. Troxel is pastor of Bethel OPC in Wheaton and teaches adjunct at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana and Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has taught courses on Reformed Spirituality at both institutions.

Participants: A. Craig Troxel, Camden Bucey, Charles Williams, Robert Tarullo

Vos Group #35 — Christ, the Tabernacle, and the Church

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 04:00:51 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 154–155 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider how Christ reveals and consummates the religious principles and realities embodied in the tabernacle and then elevated into the Church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Man’s Freedom within the Sovereign Plan of God

Fri, 21 Apr 2017 12:27:58 -0400

Today we welcome Daniel Ragusa, to speak about the Westminster Standards and their teaching of the self-sufficient and self-contained triune God of Scripture. Ragusa begins with Westminster Confession of Faith 3.1:

God, from all eternity, did, by the most wise and holy counsel of his own will, freely, and unchangeably ordain whatsoever comes to pass: yet so, as thereby neither is God the author of sin, nor is violence offered to the will of the creatures; nor is the liberty or contingency of second causes taken away, but rather established.

In developing this doctrine, Ragusa draws upon Cornelius Van Til’s Trinitarian theology, covenant theology, and representational principle. Ragusa writes,

According to Van Til’s representational principle, for man’s will to operate and for an act of his will to be significant and meaningful it must take place within an exhaustively personal environment, that is, it must take place within the sovereign and eternal plan of the self-sufficient triune God. The absolute freedom of God does not take away or limit man’s freedom, but rather establishes it in an analogical fashion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa, Jim Cassidy

The Gospel: A Matter of First Importance

Fri, 14 Apr 2017 04:00:04 -0400

While many in the Christian tradition prepare to celebrate Good Friday and Easter Sunday this week and next, we turn to consider the meaning of the gospel. Paul describes the gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:1–8 as a message of Jesus’ historical life, death, and resurrection for sinners. This is a matter of first importance.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

TGC Followup, Evangelical Worship, and Oecolampadius

Fri, 07 Apr 2017 04:00:37 -0400

Earlier this week, we exhibited at The Gospel Coalition 2017 Conference, “No Other Gospel: Reformation 500 and Beyond” in Indianapolis. We were able to share 900 copies of our new book No Uncertain Sound with interested conference attendees. We had numerous conversations with people about confessional Reformed theology, worship, apologetics, and ecclesiology. In the few quiet moments, we picked up the microphones and spoke about our experience.

In his plenary address at TGC, “The Reformed Tradition Beyond Calvin,” Ligon Duncan spoke of Johannes Oecolampadius and Dr. Diane Poythress’ work on the Reformer. In Christ the Center episode 269, we spoke with Dr Poythress about her dissertation, “Johannes Oecolampadius’ Exposition of Isaiah, Chapters 36–37,” which is one of the only lengthy treatments of Oecolampadius in English. She has also written an excellent book about him titled, Reformer of Basel: The Life, Thought, and Influence of Johannes Oecolampadius, published by Reformation Heritage Books.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Diane Poythress, Glen Clary, Jason Pickard, Jim Cassidy

T. F. Torrance and Apostolic Succession

Fri, 31 Mar 2017 04:00:13 -0400

Rev. Chiarot is the pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Rock Tavern, New York. He joins us today to speak about “T. F. Torrance and Apostolic Succession,” an article he wrote for Participatio. He has also written, The Unassumed Is the Unhealed: The Humanity of Christ in the Christology of T. F. Torrance (Pickwick, 2013).

The Majesty of Mystery

Fri, 24 Mar 2017 04:00:42 -0400

K. Scott Oliphint speaks about the incomprehensibility of God as detailed in his book, The Majesty of Mystery: Celebrating the Glory of an Incomprehensible God (Lexham Press). As creatures, we will never and can never comprehend fully God’s mysteries. Indeed, this must even be an epistemological and methodological starting point. Standing upon this biblically-based notion of mystery, Dr. Oliphint drives us to doxology—to worship our glorious God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, K. Scott Oliphint

The Last Adam: A Theology of the Obedient Life of Jesus in the Gospels

Fri, 17 Mar 2017 04:00:45 -0400

We welcome Dr. Brandon Crowe to speak about his book, The Last Adam: A Theology of the Obedient Life of Jesus in the Gospels, in which he sets forth the soteriological significance of the life of Jesus in the Gospels. He offers an exegetical case for understanding the Adam-Christ parallel in the Gospels themselves, and thereby allows us to see the great glory of person and work of Christ as he is revealed in all of Scripture.

Other episodes with Brandon Crowe

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey

Vos Group #34 — The Majesty and Holiness of God and the Place of Worship

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 05:00:34 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 150–154 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the presence of God. The tabernacle was a holy place wherein God’s people were summoned to commune with and worship the Lord. Vos describes the symbolism and typology of this holy realm. God brings his people into deeper covenant fellowship as he conforms them to the image of his resurrected Son, Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Attestation of Scripture

Fri, 03 Mar 2017 05:00:05 -0400

Today we speak about John Murray’s “The Attestation of Scripture,” a chapter in The Infallible Word. Scripture attests to its own character and authority. Being God’s Word and our ultimate authority, it could be no other way. Murray writes,

The doctrine of Scripture must be based upon the witness of Scripture just as any other doctrine in the whole realm of Christian confession.

The objective witness is that Scripture is authoritative by reason of the character it possesses as the infallible Word of God and this divine quality belongs to Scripture because it is the product of God’s creative breath through the mode of plenary inspiration by the Holy Spirit.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

A Biblical Theology of Culture

Fri, 24 Feb 2017 05:00:03 -0400

In his book Created & Creating (IVP Academic), William Edgar offers a rich biblical theology contending that Christians must engage in culture. Dr. Edgar is Professor of Apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary. He joins us to speak about this wonderful book.

Its thesis is simple: the cultural mandate, declared at the dawn of human history, and reiterated through the different episodes of redemptive history, culminating in Jesus’ Great Commission, is the central calling for humanity.

Previous Episodes featuring William Edgar

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, William Edgar

Vos Group #33 — The Tabernacle

Fri, 17 Feb 2017 05:00:20 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 148–150 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider types and symbols. The tabernacle is a premier symbol and type in the Old Testament. It demonstrates God’s dwelling with his people. Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey turn to Vos’s discussion and consider the redemptive-historical significance of the tabernacle.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Coherence-Based Genealogical Method

Fri, 10 Feb 2017 05:00:03 -0400

Today we welcome Peter Gurry to speak about New Testament textual criticism. Peter is a PhD candidate at Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge and has written an article titled, “How Your Greek NT is Changing: A Simple Introduction to the Coherence-Based Genealogical Method (CBGM)” (JETS Volume 59, No. 4, 675–689). The coherence-based genealogical method was used in editing the Catholic epistles for the NA28 and UBS5 critical editions of the New Testament.

In this conversation, we learn about the basic principles of the method and how it differs from traditional approaches. We also discuss its advantages and the challenges that lay ahead in terms of scholarly reception and methodological refinement.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Marcus Mininger, Peter Gurry

Karl Barth and Lapsarian Theology

Fri, 03 Feb 2017 05:00:50 -0400

Today we speak with Austin Reed about Karl Barth’s theology of election. Austin is a student at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and walks us through a critical review of Karl Barth’s Infralapsarian Theology: Origins and Development, 1920-1953 by Shao Kai Tseng. Tseng challenges the scholarly status quo, arguing that despite Barth’s stated favor of supralapsarianism, his mature lapsarian theology is complex and dialectical. It demonstrates elements of both supra- and infralapsarianism, though it favors the latter. In Tseng’s assessment, Barth’s theology is basically infralapsarian because he sees the object of election as fallen humankind and understands the incarnation as God’s act of taking on human nature in its condition of fallenness.

Be sure to read Austin Reed’s review of Reading Barth with Charity: A Hermeneutic Proposal by George Hunsinger.

Participants: Austin Reed, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

John Owen and Reformed Orthodox Trinitarian Theology

Fri, 27 Jan 2017 05:00:44 -0400

On this episode, we are joined by Ryan McGraw, who speaks about the foundational role and practical significance of Trinitarian theology to John Owen. Dr. McGraw is Professor of Systematic Theology at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Greenville, South Caroline. His article, “Trinitarian Doxology: Reassessing John Owen’s Contribution to Reformed Orthodox Trinitarian Theology” was published in The Westminster Theological Journal, Vol. 77, No. 2.

Dr. McGraw joined us on a previous episode of Christ the Center to speak about the meaning of the phrase “good and necessary consequence” in the Westminster Confession of Faith 1.6.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Ryan McGraw

The Theological Interpretation of Scripture

Fri, 20 Jan 2017 05:00:29 -0400

On this episode, we are joined by Nathaniel Gray Sutanto, who speaks about the Theological Interpretation of Scripture (TIS). Gray is a PhD Candidate at New College, University of Edinburgh. His article, “On the Theological Interpretation of Scripture: The Indirect Identity Thesis, Reformed Orthodoxy, and Trinitarian Considerations” was published in The Westminster Theological Journal, Vol. 77, No. 2.

TIS is an approach to reading biblical texts that explicitly considers the theological nature of the texts and embraces the influence of theology on interpretation. Sutanto focuses on Francis Watson and his relationship to Karl Barth’s doctrine of revelation. He concludes that, “. . . the uniqueness of TIS depends upon the assumption of the validity of Kant’s turn in philosophical history along with its attendant ideological implications.”

A NOTE ON THE AUDIO: After recording this episode, we discovered that our studio mixer is no longer supported on the current version of our operating system. While it still recorded, it did not record true to the inputs. This is most inconvenient… Furthermore, we can’t do anything about what we recorded. We humbly bring to you what sounds like a most unusual conversation among pre-pubescent theologians.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Bible Reading as a Discipline and a Means of Grace

Fri, 13 Jan 2017 05:00:56 -0400

As another year gets into swing, many people have begun new Bible reading plans. Reading through Scripture each day is a powerful and transformative discipline. We discuss the practice of Bible reading personally, in the home, and in the church.

Vos Group #32 — Symbols and Types

Fri, 06 Jan 2017 05:00:11 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 143–148 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider types and symbols. This is an important discussion on redemptive-historical hermeneutics and a classic lesson from Vos’s writings.

Highlights from 2016

Fri, 30 Dec 2016 05:00:17 -0400

As we head into our tenth year of Christ the Center, we look back at some of our favorite guests and moments from 2016.

Episodes

425 — David VanDrunen, God’s Glory Alone
428 — Vern Poythress, The Miracles of Jesus
441 — John Galbraith and Danny Olinger on John Galbraith’s Life and Ministry
443 — Alan Strange, Charles Hodge and the Spirituality of the Church
444 — Iain Murray, J. C. Ryle
445 — Lane Tipton, Trinity, Processions, and Missions: The Pactum Salutis
449 — Rob McKenzie and Bob Tarullo, Dispensationalism
452 — Michael Kruger, A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament
453 — Dennis Johnson, Walking withe Jesus through His Word
455 — Richard Gaffin, Jr., Calvin and the Sabbath
461 — Gregg Allison and Chris Castaldo, The Unfinished Reformation
464 — Mark Vanderhart and Cornelis Venema, The Reformed Church in Latvia
467 — Patricia Clawson and Diane Olinger, Choosing the Good Portion: Women of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church

Participants: Adam York, Alan Strange, Camden Bucey, Chris Castaldo, Cornelis Venema, Danny Olinger, David VanDrunen, Dennis Johnson, Diane Olinger, Glen Clary, Gregg Allison, Iain Murray, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, John Galbraith, Lane G. Tipton, Mark Vander Hart, Michael Kruger, Patricia Clawson, Richard B. Gaffin Jr., Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo, Vern Poythress

Worship and the Birth of Christ, Part 2

Fri, 23 Dec 2016 05:00:22 -0400

In the second part of this special two-part episode, we discuss the observation of Christmas. This subject is perennially debated in the Reformed community. In this segment of our conversation, we address the variety of decision before local church leadership, the purported pagan roots of Christmas observance, the story of St. Nicholas and Arius, as well as the psalms and contemporary worship relative to Christmas.

Worship and the Birth of Christ, Part 1

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 05:00:51 -0400

In this special two-part episode, we discuss the observation of Christmas. This subject is perennially debated in the Reformed community. Listen as we discuss the historical, theological, and the practical issues involved.

We invoke a distinction between celebrating the nativity of Christ and observing Christmas as an annual liturgical event. Christ’s nativity has been celebrated from the moment of his miraculous conception. Consider the examples of Mary, Elizabeth, Shepherds, Angels, Magi, and Simeon. The Church must celebrate the nativity of Christ in some form. Christians may celebrate the nativity as an annual liturgical event, but must not observe it as a God-ordained ordinance. As we explore this issues, we address the following objections:

According to sola Scriptura and the Regulative Principle of Worship, if it’s not God-ordained, then we must not do it.
If the Church holds an annual service to celebrate Christ’s nativity, then it will inevitably come to be regarded as a God-ordained holy day.
Christmas is a Christianized pagan holiday.

Choosing the Good Portion: Women of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church

Fri, 09 Dec 2016 05:00:38 -0400

Patricia Clawson and Diane Olinger speak about the new book from the OPC’s Committee for the Historian. Choosing the Good Portion: Women of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church captures the stories of ninety-three women who have had a great influence upon the denomination—from Mary “Minnie” Machen to women of the present day. Fifty-five women contributed to this volume to bring rich stories of so many who sacrificed for the sake of Christ and his Church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Diane Olinger, Patricia Clawson

Vos Group #31 — The Third and Fourth Words

Fri, 02 Dec 2016 05:00:50 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 137–143 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the third and fourth commandments. The third commandment prohibits taking the Lord’s name in vain. Often, this is interpreted to mean we must not swear by the Lord’s name or blaspheme it. While these are certainly things we must not do, Vos communicates a much deeper understanding of the commandment that pertains to the pagan practice of word-magic. He also introduces a rich eschatological view of Sabbath rest.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Christ and Culture: Marriage as a Biblical Test-Case

Fri, 25 Nov 2016 05:00:25 -0400

Marcus Mininger is Associate Professor in New Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. Today he joins us to speak about his article, “Eschatology and Protology, Christ and Culture: Marriage as a Biblical Test-Case” MAJT 25 (2014): 117–140. The substance of this article was first delivered as a lecture at Mid-America’s Alumni Conference on April 9, 2014. The relationship between Christ and culture has elicited many different responses within the Reformed tradition. Mininger offers an insightful way to consider the matter through typology and a redemptive-historical consideration of creation.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Marcus Mininger

The Reformed Church in Latvia

Fri, 18 Nov 2016 05:00:27 -0400

Mark Vander Hart and Cornelis P. Venema join us to speak about the Reformed church in Latvia. Mark Vander Hart is Associate Professor of Old Testament Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. Cornelis Venema is President and Professor of Doctrinal Studies. Both men have taught at Baltic Reformed Seminary in Riga, Latvia.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cornelis Venema, Mark Vander Hart

By His Spirit and Word: How Christ Builds His Church

Fri, 11 Nov 2016 05:00:44 -0400

Cornelis P. Venema joins us to speak about his book By His Spirit and Word: How Christ Builds His Church (Reformed Fellowship, Inc.). Venema engages in an extended exposition on the doctrine of the church and its ministry as described in the historic confessions and catechisms of the Reformation churches. These confessions emphasize the church’s indispensability to the salvation of believers, for the triune God’s redemptive mission is principally effected through the ministry of the church. Dr. Venema is President and Professor of Doctrinal Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cornelis Venema

Vos Group #30 — The Decalogue: The Second Word

Fri, 04 Nov 2016 04:00:05 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 135–137 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the Decalogue and the second commandment.

¹ And God spoke all these words, saying, ² “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery. ³ “You shall have no other gods before me. ⁴ “You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. ⁵ You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, ⁶ but showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments. (Exodus 20:1–6, ESV)

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Unfinished Reformation

Fri, 28 Oct 2016 04:00:17 -0400

We speak with Gregg Allison and Chris Castaldo about their excellent book The Unfinished Reformation: What Unites and Divides Catholics and Protestants after 500 Years (Zondervan, 2016). Rev. Dr. Allison is Professor of Christian Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Rev. Dr. Castaldo serves as Lead Pastor of New Covenant Church in Naperville, Illinois. We are driven to ask, Why are we accepted by God? In the final analysis, it must be Christ’s person and work and his imputed righteousness to sinners. Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone. It depends solely on Christ and not anything we do.

Episodes of Christ the Center

Roman Catholic Theology and Practice with Gregg Allison
Speaking with Catholics about the Gospel with Chris Castaldo

Books by Allison and Castaldo

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Chris Castaldo, Gregg Allison, Jeff Waddington

Ulrich Zwingli: Third Man of the Reformation

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 04:00:09 -0400

We speak with William Boekestein about the Swiss reformer, Ulrich Zwingli. Ulrich Zwingli was a leader of the Reformation in Switzerland. His efforts in reforming doctrine and practice serve as examples and lessons for us today. Rev. Boekestein has written two biographies of Zwingli, each capturing the significance of the man for different audiences. He serves as Pastor of Immanuel Fellowship Church (URCNA) in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He joined us on a previous episode of Christ the Center to discuss the history of the Heidelberg Catechism.

Books by William Boekestein

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, William Boekestein

The Image of God: Historical and Contemporary Challenges

Fri, 14 Oct 2016 04:00:22 -0400

The panel discusses the image of God live from the 2016 Reformed Forum Theology Conference. The event was held at Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois beginning on October 7, 2016. In this conversation, we address historical views of the image of God, the historicity of Adam, woman’s relationship to man, gender, and the implications of the image of God doctrine for racial equality.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

The Second Commandment and Images in Worship

Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:51:25 -0400

Several traditions within the Christian church have understood the second commandment differently. Some have understood it is a prohibition against statues. Others understand the commandment to prohibit images of God in worship. Still others argue it is a prohibition against all images as representations of God. We discuss the duties required and reasons annexed to the second commandment as well as the liturgical theology inherent to the issue.

Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 21: Of Religious Worship, and the Sabbath Day

1. The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty over all, is good, and doth good unto all, and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served, with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the might. But the acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture.

Westminster Larger Catechism

Q. 107. Which is the second commandment?
A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

Q. 108. What are the duties required in the second commandment?
A. The duties required in the second commandment are, the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath instituted in his word; particularly prayer and thanksgiving in the name of Christ; the reading, preaching, and hearing of the word; the administration and receiving of the sacraments; church government and discipline; the ministry and maintenance thereof; religious fasting; swearing by the name of God, and vowing unto him: as also the disapproving, detesting, opposing, all false worship; and, according to each one’s place and calling, removing it, and all monuments of idolatry.

Q. 109. What sins are forbidden in the second commandment?
A. The sins forbidden in the second commandment are, all devising, counseling, commanding, using, and any wise approving, any religious worship not instituted by God himself; the making any representation of God, of all or of any of the three persons, either inwardly in our mind, or outwardly in any kind of image or likeness of any creature whatsoever; all worshiping of it, or God in it or by it; the making of any representation of feigned deities, and all worship of them, or service belonging to them; all superstitious devices, corrupting the worship of God, adding to it, or taking from it, whether invented and taken up of ourselves, or received by tradition from others, though under the title of antiquity, custom, devotion, good intent, or any other pretense whatsoever; simony; sacrilege; all neglect, contempt, hindering, and opposing the worship and ordinances which God hath appointed.

Q. 110. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it?
A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it, contained in these words, For I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments; are, besides God’s sovereignty over us, and propriety in us, his fervent zeal for his own worship, and his revengeful indignation against all false worship, as being a spiritual whoredom; accounting the breakers of this commandment such as hate him, and threatening to punish them unto divers generations; and esteeming the observers of it such as love him and keep his commandments, and promising mercy to them unto many generations.

Westminster Shorter Catechism

Q. 49. Which is the second commandment?
A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

Q. 50. What is required in the second commandment?
A. The second commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in his word.

Q. 51. What is forbidden in the second commandment?
A. The second commandment forbiddeth the worshiping of God by images, or any other way not appointed in his word.

Q. 52. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment?

A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God’s sovereignty over us, his propriety in us, and the zeal he hath to his own worship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

Biblical Theology and Joshua

Fri, 30 Sep 2016 04:00:12 -0400

Dan Ragusa speaks about the United Reformed Churches in North America, biblical theology, and the book of Joshua. Dan is a graduate of Mid-America Reformed Seminary and is currently studying at Westminster Theological Seminary. After a brief conversation, we share a lesson from Mr. Ragusa’s Sunday school series on Joshua taught at Oak Glen United Reformed Church of Lansing, Illinois.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Ragusa

Catechetical Preaching

Fri, 23 Sep 2016 04:00:35 -0400

Many churches may be familiar with lectio continua preaching in the form of the weekly practice of preaching consecutive passages through a book of Scripture. Catechetical preaching uses a catechism to organize the weekly sermons rather than the book of Scripture. Does that make catechetical preaching unscriptural? By no means!

While some catechetical sermons may derive their points directly from the catechism and others merely use the catechism to determine the topic and then select a pertinent Scripture passage to exposit. Catechetical preaching merely provides the skeleton for the subject and points of a sermon, but it need not make the sermon unscriptural.

There are many benefits to catechetical preaching. It provides a wide range of Scriptural thought. It encourages familiarity with a system of doctrine. It also keeps before the congregation the basic fact that we have a catechism. We encourage people to work through it, reading it, and catechizing themselves and their children. Catechetical preaching fortifies this practice and helps people to embrace our secondary standards as a tool and help for us to understand what God has taught us about various doctrinal subjects. It aids in showing the unity and harmony of Scripture as a whole.

Resources

Wayne Brouwer, “Preaching the Heidelberg: A New Look at the Tradition of Catechetical Preaching.”
R. E. Knodel, Jr. “Catechetical Preaching“
William Boekestein, “The Benefits of Catechetical Preaching: Catechism Preaching Is Another Kind of Bible Preaching“
Jeffrey C. Waddington catechetical series on the Westminster Shorter Catechism.
James J. Cassidy sermons

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Calvin and the Sabbath

Fri, 16 Sep 2016 04:00:02 -0400

Dr. Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. speaks about Calvin’s views on the Sabbath. In this conversation, we look to Dr. Gaffin’s book Calvin and the Sabbath: The Controversy of Applying the Fourth Commandment (Mentor/Christian Focus), which is a revised version of his ThM thesis originally written under the supervision of John Murray at Westminster Theological Seminary in 1961–62. We also speak about Dr. Gaffin’s exegesis and theological development of Hebrews 3–4 in Pressing Toward the Mark: Essays Commemorating Fifty Years of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

Vos Group #29 — The Prologue and First Commandment of the Decalogue

Fri, 09 Sep 2016 04:00:46 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 131–135 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the world-wide application of the Decalogue, its prologue, and the first commandment. God has a special relationship with his covenant people. The prologue of to the Decalogue underscores this fact. God’s word delivered to Moses on Mt. Sinai is not an abstract list of technical laws. It is a word given to the recipients of God’s covenantal love to remind them of their communion bond and to move them toward greater fidelity. While the Decalogue was given specifically to Israel, it applies to the entire world. Listen as we unpack these rich themes and be sure to interact in the comments section.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Walking with Jesus through His Word

Fri, 02 Sep 2016 04:00:34 -0400

We welcome Dr. Dennis E. Johnson to speak about Christ as the substance and goal of all of Scripture. Dr. Johnson serves as Professor of Practical Theology at Westminster Seminary California and Associate Pastor of New Life Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Escondido. In this conversation, he leads us through his book Walking with Jesus through His Word: Discovering Christ in All the Scriptures (P&R, 2015), which shares Christ’s own lesson that he is the key to interpreting the Old as well as the New Testament.

Other books by Dennis Johnson

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dennis Johnson

A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament

Fri, 26 Aug 2016 04:00:26 -0400

Dr. Michael J. Kruger speaks with us about A Biblical-Theological Introduction to the New Testament. This volume introduces each New Testament book in the context of the whole canon of Scripture, helping a wide range of readers with a rich, redemptive-historical guide to each book.

Dr. Kruger is President and Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. He received his B.S. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, his M.Div. from Westminster Seminary California, and his Ph.D. from New College, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland. He is the author of three books on the issue of canon, Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books (Crossway, 2012), The Early Text of the New Testament (Oxford, 2012; edited with Charles Hill), and The Question of Canon: Challenging the Status Quo in the New Testament Debate. In addition to his faculty duties, he currently serves part-time as the Pastor of Teaching at Uptown Christ Covenant Church in downtown Charlotte. Dr. Kruger has spoken on Christ the Center episodes 217 and 283, and his wife, Melissa Kruger, has spoken on episodes 276, 297, and 301.

The Mosaic Covenant as a Republication of the Adamic Covenant

Fri, 19 Aug 2016 04:00:15 -0400

Lane Tipton speaks about the report of the Committee to Study Republication of the General Assembly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. The report describes the impetus of the committee’s work:

The 81st General Assembly, in response to an overture from the Presbytery of the Northwest, elected a study committee “to examine and give advice as to whether and in what particular senses the concept of the Mosaic Covenant as a republication of the Adamic Covenant is consistent with the doctrinal system taught in the confessional standards of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.” The men who were elected to this committee are Messrs. Bryan D. Estelle, Benjamin W. Swinburnson (Secretary), Lane G. Tipton, A. Craig Troxel (Chairman), and Chad V. Van Dixhoorn.

For an overview of the General Assembly, read D. G. Hart’s report, “2016 General Assembly: Nothing Out of the Ordinary.”

Related Resources

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

The Synod of Dort’s Deliverance on the Sabbath

Fri, 12 Aug 2016 04:00:54 -0400

We speak with Daniel R. Hyde. Rev. Hyde is pastor of Oceanside URC in Oceanside, California. He has written an article examining the Synod of Dort’s doctrine of the Sabbath, titled “Regulae de Observatione Sabbathi: The Synod of Dort’s (1618–19) Deliverance on the Sabbath.” Originally written for The Puritan Reformed Journal, you can now find it on pages 173–184 of The Confessional Presbyterian Journal, Issue 12 (2016).

Books by Danny Hyde

Books on the Sabbath

Non-Sabbatarian Position:

Sunday by Willy Rordorf (Philadelphia, PA: The Westminster Press, 1968). This is a fantastic resource on the patristic doctrine and observance of the Lord’s Day.
From Sabbath to Lord’s Day: A Biblical, Historical and Theological Investigation, ed. D. A. Carson (Wipf & Stock Pub, 2000). Richard Bauckham’s articles in this volume are excellent.

Sabbatarian Position:

The Confessional Presbyterian Journal, Issue 12 (2016)
Calvin and the Sabbath by Richard Gaffin (Mentor, 1998). Gaffin’s positive defense of the Sabbath is superb.
The True Doctrine of the Sabbath by Nicholas Bownde (Reformation Heritage, 2015).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Hyde, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

Dispensationalism

Fri, 05 Aug 2016 05:00:01 -0400

Dispensationalism is a system of doctrine that views human history as divided into distinct eras (or dispensations). In each of these dispensations, God provides a unique test to humanity. Repeatedly, they fail these tests and receive the judgment requisite to each dispensation. We welcome Rob McKenzie and Bob Tarullo from Westminster OPC in Indian Head Park, Illinois. Rev. Tarullo serves as pastor of Westminster OPC and Mr. McKenzie serves as an elder. Together, they have produced an extended audio series on dispensationalism for their Theology Simply Profound podcast. Listen as we introduce the history and salient features of this system of doctrine. Be sure to keep listening immediately after our recording ends for a bonus episode of Theology Simply Profound on the Dispensation of Promise.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Rob McKenzie, Robert Tarullo

Pilgrims in a Foreign Land

Fri, 29 Jul 2016 04:00:42 -0400

The people of God presently live in between grace and glory. We look back upon the finished work of Jesus Christ while also looking forward to his return, our resurrection, and the consummation of the New Heavens and New Earth. Speaking of the faithful, the author of the epistle to the Hebrews writes, “These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth” (Heb 11:13). While we live in the world, we do not ultimately belong in this world. We are citizens of heaven striving to enter our final rest. In this episode, we explore the biblical pilgrim motif and its application for the Christian life.

Vos Group #28 — The Decalogue

Fri, 22 Jul 2016 04:00:04 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 128–131 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider once again the function of the law and the Decalogue. Why was the law given? How does it function in the life of Israel, the redeemed typological son? God graciously gave a typological kingdom to his people, and they were commanded to obey the Lord in order to retain this kingdom. But how are we to understand this obedience? Is it a new covenant of works? Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss Israel’s relationship to the law during the Mosaic period of revelation.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

A New Perspective on Arminius

Fri, 15 Jul 2016 04:00:18 -0400

Dr. Keith Stanglin joins us to speak about the theology of Jacobus Arminius. Arminius was a Dutch theologian who served as a professor of theology at the University of Leiden. Many Calvinists will be familiar with his name as well as some version of his theological views. But are those views accurate? Today we discuss Arminius’s actual views as opposed to those of Arminians and semi-Pelagians or merely the caricatures that have been leveled against him through the generations. Many listeners will gain a new perspective on Arminius. Dr. Stanglin is associate professor at Austin Graduate School of Theology and has written extensively on the subject.

Books and Articles by Keith Stanglin

Published Books:

Scholarly Articles:

“Methodological Musings on Historiography (A Rejoinder),” Church History and Religious Culture 92 (2012): 121–9.
“The New Perspective on Arminius: Notes on a Historiographical Shift,” Reformation & Renaissance Review 11/3 (2009): 295–310.
“S. M. Baugh and the Meaning of Foreknowledge: Another Look,” Trinity Journal 26 (2005): 19–31.

Popular-Level Articles:

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, Keith Stanglin

The Life and Ministry of J. C. Ryle

Fri, 08 Jul 2016 04:00:54 -0400

Today we welcome Iain H. Murray to the program to discuss his new biography, J. C. Ryle: Prepared to Stand Alone. In 1957, Rev. Murray co-founded the Banner of Truth Trust. Ryle (1816–1900) was the first Anglican bishop of Liverpool. He was an ardent defender of Evangelicalism in the face of opposition on several fronts, including the growing Anglo-Catholic movement within his own ecclesiastical context. J. C. Ryle had a gift for clear communication to the working class, and his legacy of exhortation and evangelism continues to speak volumes today.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Iain Murray, Jeff Waddington

Charles Hodge and the Spirituality of the Church

Fri, 01 Jul 2016 04:00:19 -0400

Dr. Alan Strange is professor of church history and apologetics at Mid-America Reformed Seminary and associate pastor of New Covenant Community Church in Joliet, Illinois. Dr. Strange sits with us to speak about the great American Presbyterian, Charles Hodge, and his contribution to the Doctrine of the Church. Hodge was a proponent of the doctrine known as the Spirituality of the Church. While many Reformed theologians are familiar with the name of the doctrine, its permutations are many. Dr. Strange details the history of the doctrine through several controversies of which Charles Hodge was involved. By understanding this history, we learn many important practical lessons for the Church today.

Participants: Alan Strange, Camden Bucey

Trinity, Processions, and Missions: Gaining Clarity in the Current Debate

Fri, 24 Jun 2016 04:00:45 -0400

For the last couple of weeks, many people have been discussing the doctrine of the Trinity, especially as various theologians have linked a doctrine of complementarianism to the eternal relationship between the Father and the Son. This relationship has been characterized by some as an eternal relationship of authority and submission or by others as an eternal subordination of the Son.

In this episode, we address the current controversy by looking at the eternal relationship among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These three persons are one God, equal in power and glory. Their essential relationship entails no relationship of authority, subordination, or submission. They are related by an irreversible taxis: the Father is unbegotten, the Son is begotten of the Father, and the Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son. Theologians often call this the immanent or ontological Trinity.

Yet, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit freely will to create, and eventually to redeem a people unto himself. This free, yet still eternal agreement, to redeem is known as the pactum salutis or Covenant of Redemption. This is an economic relationship that involves willful submission. The persons of the Godhead espouse different roles for the accomplishment of redemption. Theologians often call this the economic Trinity.

How does divine ontology relate to the economy? Listen to this important discussion as we establish important doctrinal categories en route to a genuine advancement of the conversation.

After listening to this discussion, please consider two previous episodes of Christ the Center that deal with similar issues:

Christ the Center episode 245, Eternal Generation of the Son
Christ the Center episode 295, The Aseity of the Son

Catch up on the entire discussion by consulting Adam Parker’s omnibus post.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

The Trinity and Christian Paradox

Fri, 17 Jun 2016 04:00:14 -0400

Van Til’s trinitarian theology is at the heart of his apologetic. Yet there are several aspects of his theology difficult to understand and others that are left undeveloped. We speak with Dr. Brant A. Bosserman about these issues. Bosserman has written The Trinity and Christian Paradox: An Interpretation and Refinement of the Theological Apologetic of Cornelius Van Til, which seeks to explain not merely why God is and must be one and many, but also why he is equally both one and three.

Links

Participants: Brant Bosserman, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Life and Ministry of Rev. John P. Galbraith

Fri, 10 Jun 2016 04:00:55 -0400

On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, we reflect upon the life and ministry of her oldest minister, 103 year-old Rev. John P. Galbraith. Galbraith was a student of J. Gresham Machen’s at Westminster Theological Seminary and present during the founding of the OPC, before it was called the OPC.

In 1948, Mr. Galbraith was called to serve as general secretary of both the OPC Committee on Home Missions and Church Extension and the OPC Committee on Foreign Missions. He served as general secretary of both committees until 1961, when he became the first full-time general secretary of the Committee on Foreign Missions. He served in that role through 1978. Mr. Galbraith gave the next thirty years of his life to what was effectively a full-time retirement, serving on many committees and ecumenical organizations.

Listen as Camden Bucey speaks with Rev. Galbraith and Rev. Danny Olinger about the life of a small, but vibrant denomination told through the ministry and experiences of one of her faithful servants.

Vos Group #27 — The Function of Law

Fri, 03 Jun 2016 04:00:20 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 126–129 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the function of the law. Why was the law given? How does it function in the life of Israel, the redeemed typological son? God graciously gave a typological kingdom to his people, and they were commanded to obey the Lord in order to retain this kingdom. But how are we to understand this obedience? Is it a new covenant of works? Israel were to walk in the faith of Abraham, not in the sin of Adam. The obedience they offer unto the Lord is not understood in terms of strict merit, but as Vos says, in terms of “appropriateness of expression” (p. 127).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Seeing Christ in All of Scripture

Fri, 27 May 2016 04:00:05 -0400

Today we welcome Vern Poythress and Iain Duguid to speak about Reformed hermeneutics and the tradition of biblical interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary. Along with G. K. Beale and Richard B. Gaffin, Jr., Poythress and Duguid have contributed to Seeing Christ in All of Scripture: Hermeneutics at Westminster Theological Seminary. We speak about the book and the importance of interpreting Scripture according to Christ.

Dr. Poythress is professor of New Testament interpretation and Dr. Duguid is professor of Old Testament at Westminster.

Westminster Seminary Press is offering a PDF copy of the book for free.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Iain Duguid, Jeff Waddington, Vern Poythress

Reading the Word of God in the Presence of God

Fri, 20 May 2016 04:00:40 -0400

Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey speak with Dr. Vern Poythress about his book Reading the Word of God in the Presence of God: A Handbook for Biblical Interpretation. Providing both theological foundations and practical strategies for interpretation, Dr. Poythress explains the simple yet astounding truth that God is present in his Word and speaks to us as we read. With pastoral sensitivity, he combines linguistic theory, hermeneutics, systematic theology, and expert biblical knowledge into a compelling work both instructive for advanced students of the Bible and accessible for beginners.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Vern Poythress

Creation and Covenant

Fri, 13 May 2016 04:00:01 -0400

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey speak about creation and covenant from 30,000+ feet (literally) on their way to our Austin Theology Conference at Providence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas, April 30, 2016.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Nature and the Means of Grace

Fri, 06 May 2016 04:00:55 -0400

Lane Tipton, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey speak about nature-grace dualism and the means of grace. This was a live panel discussion held during our Austin Theology Conference at Providence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas, April 30, 2016.

Download the audio from each of our sessions:

Lane Tipton, “Covenant and Nature: Paul’s Eschatology of the Natural in 1 Corinthians 15:45”
Panel Discussion with Lane Tipton, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey (Christ the Center, episode 436), “Nature and the Means of Grace”
Camden Bucey, “Nature, Grace, and the Eschatology of Salvation”
Jim Cassidy, “Creation and Covenant: Why Karl Barth Didn’t Go Far Enough in His Rejection of Natural Theology”

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

The New Testament Foundations of Trinitarian Theology

Fri, 29 Apr 2016 04:00:44 -0400

Christians profess that God is triune. Many understand the importance of maintaining this doctrine. But many may also wonder where the doctrine is found in Scripture and what practical difference it makes being “Trinitarian” regardless.

Brandon Crowe joins us to remedy this ill as he speaks about The Essential Trinity: New Testament Foundations and Practical Relevance, a new book he has co-edited with Carl Trueman. The book includes many excellent contributors. We’re excited to welcome this book, and hope it has an impact upon the Church’s life and understanding of historic Christian orthodoxy.

Dr. Crowe is Associate Professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

God’s Word in Our World: 2016 Austin Conference Preview

Fri, 22 Apr 2016 04:00:25 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey preview our 2016 Theology Conference in Austin, Texas with a conversation on nature and grace. Christians have proposed many different theologies regarding relationship of God’s creation to his Word and supernatural works. Those formulations have great implications for many other areas of theology. Listen as we gear up for another great event.

Presbytopia: What it Means to be Presbyterian

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 04:00:44 -0400

Attending a Reformed church for the first time can be a daunting task. Joining one may seem even more challenging. Ken Golden has written an excellent book to help, and he joins us today to speak about it. Presbytopia: What it Means to be Presbyterian (Christian Focus) is an accessible yet uncompromising introduction to Christian essentials, Reformed distinctives, and the means of grace. Ken Golden is pastor of Sovereign Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Davenport, Iowa.

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Ken Golden

Vos Group #26 — The Organization of Israel: Theocracy

Fri, 08 Apr 2016 04:00:52 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 124–126 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider Israel as a theocracy. We cover important ground, including the theocracy’s role in redemptive-history, God’s purpose for civil government, and the differences between theonomy and two-kingdom theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Ephesians 6:10–17 and a Biblical Theology of Clothing

Fri, 01 Apr 2016 04:00:25 -0400

Will Wood develops a biblical theology of clothing, drawing a thread [pun somewhat intended] through the Old Testament to Paul’s discussion of the armor of God in Ephesians 6:10–17.

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. ¹¹ Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. ¹³ Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. ¹⁴ Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, ¹⁵ and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; ¹⁷ and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:10–17, ESV)

Will is a PhD student in Old Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia and recently delivered a lecture titled, “Clothed in the Image of the Resurrected and Ascended Christ: A Biblical-Theological Analysis of Eph. 6:10–17.” He writes:

Ephesians 6:10–17 culminates a Biblical-Theological trajectory of being clothed (or, more particularly to the postlapsarian context, re-clothed) in the image of God, with a particular referent to the new-creational image of the resurrected and ascended Christ in our already-not yet eschatological context of conflict with the Satanic forces. The main point of this passage, then, is that you would be able to withstand Satanic opposition by means of being clothed in the Spirit-given armor of the resurrected and ascended Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Will Wood

Outreach and the Local Church

Fri, 25 Mar 2016 04:00:30 -0400

There are different ways to define “outreach.” At times, it is closely identified with the act of planting churches and evangelizing. Other times, it’s more closely identified with advertising and sharing information about the church. Everett Henes joins Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey to discuss the local church’s ministry of outreach. Rev. Henes is pastor of Hillsdale OPC in Hillsdale, Michigan. His church planting experience adds a new dimension to our conversation. Listen as we discuss different conceptions of outreach and methods for reaching the community through developing relationships and proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Everett Henes, Jim Cassidy

Christian-Theistic Evidences

Fri, 18 Mar 2016 04:00:51 -0400

K. Scott Oliphint, Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, explains the role of evidences in a Reformed apologetic by turning to Cornelius Van Til’s book Christian-Theistic Evidences. Dr. Oliphint provides a foreword and explanatory notes in this re-typeset syllabus, originally from Cornelius Van Til’s Christian Evidences class at Westminster Seminary. As he addresses unbelieving philosophies of science, Van Til presents an uncompromising Christian philosophy and methodology for defending the faith that presupposes the absolute authority of the triune God of Scripture.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, K. Scott Oliphint

Vos Group #25 — The Berith Made between Jehovah and Israel

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 05:00:15 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 121–124 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the covenant God establishes with Israel. God unilaterally institutes a covenant of redemptive grace with his people. Yet Exodus 19 and 24 also speak of the bilateral working out of this covenantal administration. In this episode, we develop these features of covenant theology and compare it to the critical liberal tradition that oppose it.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Miracles of Jesus

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 05:00:31 -0400

Jesus’ miracles are windows into God’s grand story of redemption. They confirm God’s message and demonstrate his power in the world and purpose in redemption. In this episode, Dr. Vern Poythress speaks with us about his book The Miracles of Jesus: How the Savior’s Mighty Acts Serve as Signs of Redemption (Crossway). Poythress serves as professor of New Testament interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary.

For the opensource-minded, you can also download this episode in .ogg format.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Vern Poythress

Family Worship

Fri, 26 Feb 2016 05:00:37 -0400

Donald S. Whitney joins us to speak about Family Worship (Crossway). Many Reformed believers will be aware of the important spiritual practice of family worship. This practical guide will greatly assist families develop and maintain a practice of worship through Bible reading, prayer, and singing. In this conversation, we cover the biblical warrant, history, and elements of family worship along with several barriers to consistent practice.

Dr. Whitney serves as professor of biblical spirituality at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. He has written several books related to Christian spirituality, including Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life and Praying the Bible. Don blogs regularly at BiblicalSpirituality.org.

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Donald Whitney

Soli Deo Gloria: God’s Glory Alone

Fri, 19 Feb 2016 05:00:01 -0400

The five solas are slogans that summarize the core teachings of the Reformation. Sola gratia, sola fide, solus Christus, and sola Scriptura are beloved Protestant distinctives. Yet people either forget about the fifth sola or fail to see its significance in relation to the other four. But it is soli Deo gloria binds the other solas together.

In God’s Glory Alone: The Majestic Heart of Christian Faith and Life (Zondervan), David VanDrunen explores the glorious truth of the fifth sola, bringing together systematic, biblical, and practical theology. Dr. VanDrunen serves as the Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary California.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David VanDrunen

Listener Q&A: Culture, the Soul, and Inclusivism

Fri, 12 Feb 2016 05:00:23 -0400

Today we open the email inbox and address a variety of your questions. We touch on Van Til and Vos on culture, neo-Calvinism, theological anthropology, and whether Christians and Muslims worship the same God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #24 — Redemption from Egypt, Part 3

Fri, 05 Feb 2016 05:00:29 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 119–121 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the Passover as an expiation for sin and its function in transferring God’s people to a new blessed realm.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Confessional Presbyterian Journal, Volume 11

Fri, 29 Jan 2016 05:00:46 -0400

We discuss the latest issue of the Confessional Presbyterian Journal, which contains contributions from John Murray, Carl Trueman, Mark Jones, Glen Clary, and many others.

Articles

“John Murray” by Danny E. Olinger
“The Regulative Principle of Worship & Song in the Public Worship of God” by John Murray
“Sanctification, the Law, and Good Works: Their Relationship in the American Reformed Tradition” by C. N. Willborn
“The Church’s Care for the Penitent: Some Considerations” by Joseph E. Rolison
“An Exposition of Psalm 68” by Benjamin Shaw
“Strange Bedfellows: Darwinism and the Reformed Theological Tradition” by Mark Jones
“The Christian Ministry in the Church: Its Reasons, Duration and Goal, and Practical Effects (Ephesians 4:11–16), with Special Emphasis on verse 12” by Richard C. Barcellos
“Let’s Do Presbyterianism: The Trinitarian Foundations of Biblical Church Polity” by James J. Cassidy
“James Bannerman’s The Church of Christ: A Tract for these Times” by Carl R. Trueman
“Rites & Ceremonies in Public Worship” by James Bannerman
“Holy Communion and Revivalism in the First Great Awakening” by Glen J. Clary
“How Free Was Adam’s Will? Examining John Lafayette Girardeau’s Critique of Jonathan Edwards’ View of Adam’s Will Before the Fall” by Caleb Cangelosi
“Which Comes First, the Intellect or the Will? Alvin Plantinga and Jonathan Edwards on a Perennial Question” by Jeffrey C. Waddington
“William Perkins: Augustine’s Protégé & Father of Puritan Theology” by Barry Waugh
“American Presbyterianism and the Religious Observance of Christmas” by Chris Coldwell and Andrew J. Webb
Sic et Non. Views in Review: The Content of Song for the Public Worship of God

Reviews

Reviews & Responses: Franciscus Junius, The Mosaic Polity (Jeffrey C. Waddington)
Gerald Bray, God Has Spoken: A History of Christian Theology (Carl R. Trueman)
Mees te Velde, et al., Correctly Handling the Word of Truth: Reformed Hermeneutics Today (Benjamin Shaw)
N. T. Wright, Surprised By Scripture: Engaging Contemporary Issues (Jeffrey Stivason)
Willem J. van Asselt et al., Synopsis Purioris Theologiae/Synopsis of a Purer Theology: Latin Text and English Translation—Volume 1 (Wes Bredenhof)

Other Departments

Psallo: Psalm 92:1–15
In Translatiōne: Johannes Wollebius’ Præcognita of Christian Theology from Compendium Theologiæ Christianæ
Antiquary: Rediscovery of the Manuscripts of the Larger Catechism of Westminster Assembly of Divines; with extracts from The Larger Catechism of the Westminster Assembly: A Transcription of the Surviving Manuscripts with Notes.
Bibliography
The Editors and Contributing Editors In Brief:
- The Sabbath vs. the Liturgical Calendar
- Union with Christ and Mysticism

Related Episodes

Jim Cassidy, “Let’s Do Presbyterianism: The Trinitarian Foundations for Biblical and Church Polity,” an address from our 2015 Theology Conference
Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. and Lane Tipton, “The Eschatological Aspect of the Pauline Concept of the Spirit
pre-conference discussion from the 2015 Theology Conference
Lane Tipton, “Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics, Divine Authorship, and the Christotelism Debate,” pre-conference discussion from the 2014 Theology Conference
Jeff Waddington, “Which Comes First, the Intellect or the Will?“
Darryl G. Hart, Glen Clary, John Terpstra, and Jim Cassidy, “Revivalism and Reformed Piety“

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Excommunication, Dissociation, and 1 Corinthians 5

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 05:00:03 -0400

Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 5:11, “But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one.” These words have elicited several different interpretations. In this episode, Glen Clary leads us in a conversation about church discipline, and specifically, the nature and appropriateness of disassociation from those under this form of discipline.

Vos Group #23 — Redemption from Egypt, Part 2

Fri, 15 Jan 2016 05:00:37 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 114–119 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to consider the name ‘Jehovah’/YHWH as it has been revealed in Exodus 3 and emphasized again in Exodus 6.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Thoughts for the New Year

Fri, 08 Jan 2016 05:00:15 -0400

Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey discuss reading lists, New Year’s resolutions, church planting, and much more in this free form discussion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Highlights from 2015

Fri, 01 Jan 2016 05:00:21 -0400

We ring in the New Year with a retrospective of 2015, bringing to you highlights from twelve of our favorite episodes of the year.

370 — Donald Macleod, Understanding the Atonement
373 — Rita Cefalu, The Sons of God and Daughters of Man in Genesis 6
376 — Vern Poythress, Redeeming Mathematics
378 — Carl Trueman, Luther on the Christian Life
391 — Chris Castaldo, Talking with Catholics about the Gospel
393 — Tony Reinke, Newton on the Christian Life
398 — Bill Edgar, The History and Legacy of the Huguenots
400 — Jim Cassidy, Jeff Waddington, and Camden Bucey, Polemical Theology
403 — Kevin Chiarot, The Unassumed Is the Unhealed
408 — Richard B. Gaffin, Jr., The Eschatological Aspect of the Pauline Conception of the Spirit
411 — Daniel Strange, A Theology of Religions
415 — John Bolt, Bavinck on the Christian Life

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Chris Castaldo, Daniel Strange, Donald Macleod, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, John Bolt, Kevin Chiarot, Richard B. Gaffin Jr., Rita Cefalu, Tony Reinke, Vern Poythress, William Edgar

A History of Western Philosophy and Theology

Fri, 25 Dec 2015 05:00:59 -0400

We are pleased to welcome John Frame to the program to speak about his significant new volume, A History of Western Philosophy and Theology (P&R Publishing). Dr. Frame holds the J. D. Trimble Chair of Systematic Theology and Philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando and is the author of many books. He joined us previously to discuss his Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, John Frame

A Theological Account of Logic

Fri, 18 Dec 2015 05:00:52 -0400

Nathaniel Gray Sutanto speaks to us about his paper “Two Theological Accounts of Logic: Theistic Conceptual Realism and a Reformed Archetype-Ectype Model,” published in the International Journal for Philosophy of Religion. Theologians and Christian philosophers have long debated the nature of logic and its relationship to God’s essential being. In this episode, Sutanto details different Reformed models to answering this difficult question. He presents a robust model based on a traditional post-Reformation Reformed scholastic archetype-ectype distinction.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Bavinck on the Christian Life

Fri, 11 Dec 2015 05:00:16 -0400

Today we welcome Dr. John Bolt to speak about his new book Bavinck on the Christian Life: Following Jesus in Faithful Service. Dr. Bolt is the Jean and Kenneth Baker Professor of Systematic Theology at Calvin Theological Seminary. He served as the editor of the English edition of Bavinck’s magisterial Reformed Dogmatics. Join us as we speak not only of Bavinck’s dogmatic theology, but also how that theology relates to the Christian life.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, John Bolt, Nathaniel Gray Sutanto

Vos Group #22 — Redemption from Egypt, Part 1

Fri, 04 Dec 2015 05:00:35 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 109–112 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to learn about the factual basis of the Mosaic organization, which consists in the redemption from Egypt.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

In Defense of the Eschaton

Fri, 27 Nov 2015 05:00:45 -0400

Bill Dennison brings together the worlds of apologetics and biblical theology just as Cornelius Van Til did with the teaching of his beloved professor Geerhardus Vos. Dr. Dennison serves as Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Covenant College. Listen as we discuss Dr. Dennison’s collection of essays, In Defense of the Eschaton, edited by James Baird.

Previous Episodes with Bill Dennison

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Revivalism and Reformed Piety

Fri, 20 Nov 2015 05:00:31 -0400

Today we speak with D. G. Hart, Glen Clary, and John Terpstra about the relationship between revivalism and Reformed piety. Looking at the history of revival and its influence on the Reformed church we explore how Reformed and Presbyterian churches have has their thinking about covenant nurture altered by the influence of revivals, specially those which were spurred on by the Tennents and Frelinghausen.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, John Terpstra

A Theology of Religions

Fri, 13 Nov 2015 05:00:57 -0400

Daniel Strange speaks about his book Their Rock Is Not Like Our Rock: A Theology of Religions (Zondervan). We talk about how theology, redemptive-history, and apologetics all converge to inform our science of missions and our theology of “the religious other.” Dr. Strange is Academic Vice Principal and Lecturer in Culture, Religion, and Public Theology at Oak Hill College, London.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Daniel Strange, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #21 — The Form of Revelation in the Mosaic Period

Fri, 06 Nov 2015 05:00:16 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 105–108 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to learn about the form of revelation during the Mosaic period. Vos details the significance of the pillar of cloud and fire, the Angel of Jehovah, as well as the name and face of Jehovah.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Workflow Tips and Tricks for Ministry and the Academy

Fri, 30 Oct 2015 04:00:47 -0400

Each of us uses multiple tools each day as part of a variety of workflows that help us accomplish tasks throughout the day. We dive into the workflow tips and tricks to share several of our favorites for reading, writing, and managing information.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack

The Eschatological Aspect of the Pauline Conception of the Spirit

Fri, 23 Oct 2015 04:00:04 -0400

We welcome Dr. Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. and Dr. Lane G. Tipton to speak about Geerhardus Vos’s seminal article, “The Eschatological Aspect of the Pauline Conception of the Spirit,” which is found in Redemptive History and Biblical Interpretation: The Shorter Writings of Geerhardus Vos. This episode was recorded live as part of the pre-conference festivities at our 2015 Theology Conference held at Hope OPC in Grayslake, Illinois. You can also watch the videos from each of our main conference sessions.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

Issues in Biblical Theology

Fri, 16 Oct 2015 04:01:10 -0400

In this episode, we survey several biblical texts and explore the biblical theological features that unfold throughout God’s Word. We consider a biblical theology of the darkness upon Christ’s crucifixion, the use of vineyard imagery for covenant blessings and curses, the glory of the Lord upon the temple, among many other rich biblical themes.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Mark A. Winder

The Church in the Old Testament

Fri, 09 Oct 2015 04:00:52 -0400

Jonathan Brack explains a Reformed ecclesiology which spans Old and New Testaments. He touches upon covenant theology, polity, and other foundational issues as he speaks about important books on ecclesiology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Mark A. Winder

Vos Group #20 — The Place of Moses in the Organism of Old Testament Revelation

Fri, 02 Oct 2015 04:00:21 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 100–104 of Geerhardus Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to learn about the place of Moses in the organism of Old Testament revelation. Critical scholars have questioned whether Moses was an historical figure, suggesting instead that the figure is a literary construct designed to offer a history and purpose to the people of Israel. In this episode, we discuss the historicity of Moses and his significance for redemptive-history.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Listener Questions

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 04:00:46 -0400

Reformed Forum turns to the mailbag, answering several of the questions we’ve received over the last few months. In this episode, we get into covenant apologetics, biblical theology, baptism, different translations of Calvin.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Mark A. Winder

The Unassumed Is the Unhealed

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 04:00:19 -0400

Rev. Dr. Kevin Chiarot introduces and offers a critical look into the influential Christology of T. F. Torrance, who among other things taught that the Son of God assumed a fallen human nature. Rev. Chiarot is the pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Rock Tavern, New York. He has written an excellent book titled, The Unassumed Is the Unhealed: The Humanity of Christ in the Christology of T. F. Torrance (Pickwick, 2013). Join us as we discuss this theology that has influenced many.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Jim Cassidy, Kevin Chiarot

Narrative Analogies among Israel’s and Judah’s Kings

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 04:02:33 -0400

Matthew Patton offers us several interpretive guidelines for understanding narrative analogies among Israel’s and Judah’s kings. These insights provide for a richer and deeper understanding of typology. Dr. Patton previously joined us to speak about Restoration Prophecy in Ezra-Nehemiah and Typology and Jehoiachin. In the latter episode we focused upon on his dissertation, and today we resume that focus by comparing Israel’s and Judah’s kings to David and ultimately to Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Daniel Schrock, Mark A. Winder, Matthew Patton

Vos Group #19 — The Patriarch Jacob at Bethel and Peniel

Fri, 04 Sep 2015 04:00:10 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 95–99 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to learn about revelation during the patriarchal period. In this episode we look to the patriarch Jacob and focus upon his Bethel dream vision and his encounter with the angel at Peniel.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Polemical Theology

Fri, 28 Aug 2015 04:01:30 -0400

We celebrate the four-hundredth episode with our founders. Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey recorded the first episode of Christ the Center in January 2008, and now they gather around the virtual roundtable again to discuss the purpose of polemical theology. Polemics is often viewed as form of degenerate theologizing—something unloving and sub-Christian. Nonetheless, when done out of faith, polemics is vital to the life and health of the church.

Paul wrote to the Corinthians, “For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.” (2 Corinthians 10:3–6 ESV) Responding to such a charge necessarily entails a proper polemical theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Van Til’s Common Grace and the Gospel

Fri, 21 Aug 2015 04:00:39 -0400

Today we speak with Dr. K. Scott Oliphint, Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania about Cornelius Van Til’s book Common Grace and the Gospel (P&R Publishing). Dr. Oliphint has annotated a new edition of Van Til’s important work. In the trajectory of other recently annotated volumes of Van Til, such as The Defense of the Faith and An Introduction to Systematic Theology, this edition will help readers to understand the ecclesiastical and theological context of Van Til’s work and its enduring value.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, K. Scott Oliphint

The History and Legacy of the Huguenots

Fri, 14 Aug 2015 04:01:06 -0400

Dr. William Edgar details the French Reformation and the Huguenots, connecting it through history in order to teach us about God’s plan for his church amidst struggle. Dr. Edgar is Professor of Apologetics and John Boyer Chair of Evangelism and Culture at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He also serves as president of The Huguenot Fellowship, a non-profit organization committed to supporting the Reformation heritage in the French-speaking world.

Vos Group #18 — Jacob and Election

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 04:00:13 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 93–95 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to learn about the patriarch Jacob and election.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Pastor Theologian

Fri, 31 Jul 2015 04:01:54 -0400

On this episode we welcome Gerald Hiestand to speak about the pastor theologian. Gerald serves as Senior Associate Pastor of Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park, Illinois and Executive Director for the Center for Pastor Theologians. Along with Todd Wilson, Hiestand has co-authored The Pastor Theologian: Resurrecting an Ancient Vision (Zondervan), in which they offer a new taxonomy of pastor theologians: local theologian, popular theologian, and ecclesial theologian. The latter is the authors’ core contribution and concern in this book as they seek to detail a type of theologian and theology that occurs in the immediate context of the Church and for the sake of the Church.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Gerald Hiestand, Jim Cassidy

Jesus Christ as Apologist

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 04:00:57 -0400

Brian DeJong takes us to Jesus Christ as Lord as well as the preeminent practitioner of apologetics. Listen to this important conversation on an underdeveloped topic. Rev. De Jong is pastor of Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and currently serves as the chairman of the Candidates and Credentials Committee for the OPC’s Presbytery of the Midwest. His article, “Lord Defender: Jesus Christ as Apologist,” published in Ordained Servant, is an excellent treatment of Jesus’ apologetic example and an important call-to-action that Reformed apologists would devote time and attention to studying this topic.

Participants: Brian De Jong, Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne

The Incarnation of God

Fri, 17 Jul 2015 04:02:00 -0400

Marcus Peter Johnson joins us once again to talk about Christology and soteriology. With his colleague Dr. John C. Clark, Dr. Johnson has co-authored The Incarnation of God: The Mystery of the Gospel as the Foundation of Evangelical Theology (Crossway). Johnson and Clark examine the doctrine of the incarnation and its implications fro the church’s knowledge and worship of God, understanding of salvation, and approach to the Christian life. Be sure also to listen to our previous conversations with Dr. Johnson regarding his book One with Christ: An Evangelical Theology of Salvation (Crossway).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Jim Cassidy, Marcus Johnson

Newton on the Christian Life

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 04:01:00 -0400

Tony Reinke joins us to speak about Newton on the Christian Life: To Live Is Christ, a new book in Crossway’s Theologians on the Christian Life series. Newton was a brilliant letter writer, and his vision for the Christian life shines brightly in these personal correspondences to friends and the people of his congregation. Listen as Tony Reinke unfolds this miraculous life in order to demonstrate fully the grace and truth of our savior Jesus Christ. Tony is a staff writer and researcher for desiringGod.org. He has also written Lit!: A Christian Guide to Reading Books. You can follow Tony on Twitter and read his updates regarding his several other writing projects.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Tony Reinke

Vos Group #17: The Patriarch Isaac

Fri, 03 Jul 2015 04:01:58 -0400

We continue our #VosGroup series by opening pages 90–93 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to learn about the patriarch Isaac. Isaac is the middle figure of the oft-repeated patriarchal formula of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He uniquely demonstrates God’s promise to his people and the hope of redemption through a sacrifice, God’s own Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Talking with Catholics about the Gospel

Fri, 26 Jun 2015 04:05:18 -0400

More than seventy-eight million Catholics live in the United States, representing one of the country’s largest demographics. How then can evangelical and Reformed Christians be better equipped to speak about the gospel with those Catholics? We recognize a gap between our understanding and current Catholic practice. In Talking with Catholics about the Gospel: A Guide for Evangelicals, Chris Castaldo leads us toward a better understanding of how to interact with Catholics about the gospel. Castaldo is also the author of Holy Ground: Walking with Jesus as a Former Catholic. Join us for an excellent and much-needed conversation on an important subject.

See also our recent conversation with Gregg Allison on his book Roman Catholic Theology and Practice: A Evangelical Assessment.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Castaldo, Jim Cassidy

The Message of the General Epistles

Fri, 19 Jun 2015 04:03:00 -0400

In this episode, Brandon Crowe introduces the redemptive-historical message of Peter, James, John, and John. Dr. Crowe is Associate Professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. His latest book, The Message of the General Epistles in the History of Redemption: Wisdom from James, Peter, John, and Jude (P&R Publishing) shares important insights from these oft-neglected books of Scripture.

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Things of Earth

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 04:00:04 -0400

Joe Rigney is Assistant Professor of Theology and Christian Worldview at Bethlehem College and Seminary in Minneapolis, Minnesota and the author of The Things of Earth: Treasuring God by Enjoying His Gifts. In the book, Mr. Rigney seeks to help Christians glorify God by enjoying him forever by worshiping him as well as enjoying his good gifts. Often, Christians fall into a false dilemma between enjoying the things of earth and enjoying God—a perversion that leaves us with two sinful responses: idolatry and asceticism. Joe delivered an address on this subject titled, “Strangely Dim? The Things of Earth in the Light of Christ’s Face” at the Gospel Coalition 2015 National Conference, and he joins us today to help us consider this issue faithfully.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Joe Rigney

Vos Group #16: The Ethical Dimension of Circumcision

Fri, 05 Jun 2015 04:00:00 -0400

Geerhardus Vos develops the ethical elements present during the patriarchal period through a brilliant treatment of circumcision. In this episode, Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss pages 88–90 of Vos’s book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to shed light on the indicative and imperative dimensions of God’s covenantal relationship to his people. In the course of this study, the relationship of circumcision to baptism is developed as both are signs of the righteousness God’s people have by faith in Jesus Christ (Rom 4:11–12; cf. Col 2:11–12).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Order of Worship

Fri, 29 May 2015 04:00:00 -0400

Glen Clary walks us through a Reformed order of worship, explaining the Biblical precedent and rationale for elements such as the call to worship, invocation, different types of prayer, and the benediction along with the administration of Word and sacrament. Rev. Clary is pastor of Providence OPC in Pflugerville, TX.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

The Message of Leviticus

Fri, 22 May 2015 04:00:59 -0400

Leviticus is a book about death, which may be why many people neglect to read it regularly. Yet the book teaches many important lessons about God’s holiness and the punishment for sin. Rev. Dr. David Graves takes us to this important book of the Pentateuch to demonstrate how Jesus Christ, the once-for-all sacrifice, satisfies the demands for God’s justice. His perfect blood atones for the sins of his people. Rev. Graves is pastor of Trinity OPC in Franklin, PA.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Graves, Jim Cassidy

The Regulative Principle of Worship

Fri, 15 May 2015 04:00:55 -0400

Glen Clary, pastor of Providence OPC in Pflugerville, TX, explains the origins, use, and wisdom of the regulative principle of worship. The Reformed understanding of this principle states that only those elements that are commanded in Scripture or which can be deduced by good and necessary consequence from Scripture are permissible in worship, and that whatever is not thus commanded or deduced from Scripture is prohibited.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

Edwards on the Christian Life

Fri, 08 May 2015 04:00:45 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Dr. Dane Ortlund to speak about Jonathan Edwards’s views of the Christian life. Ortlund is Senior Vice President of Bible Publishing at Crossway and the author of the book Edwards on the Christian Life: Alive to the Beauty of God. This book is in the Theologians on the Christian Life series edited by Stephen J. Nichols and Justin Taylor and published by Crossway. Join us for a fascinating discussion of a brilliant theological mind considering what it means to live before the beauty of Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dane Ortlund, David Filson, Jeff Waddington

God without Passions

Fri, 01 May 2015 04:00:53 -0400

In this episode, we speak with Samuel Renihan about the doctrine of divine impassibility. Rev. Renihan is the pastor of Trinity Reformed Baptist Church in La Mirada, California and the editor of God without Passions: A Reader. Westminster Confession of Faith 2.1, that “There is but one only, living, and true God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions . . .” We explore the theological tradition behind that declaration as well as its implications.

If you would like to learn more about the doctrine of divine impassibility, listen to Rev. Renihan’s six-part audio series on the subject, which you can find at The Confessing Baptist. You can also listen to our interview with James Dolezal on Christ the Center episode 237.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Samuel Renihan

Vos Group #15 — Revelation in the Patriarchal Period, Part 4

Fri, 24 Apr 2015 04:00:49 -0400

We open Vos’s Biblical Theology to study pages 81–87, which deal with the divine name El-Shaddai and faith as found in patriarchal religion. While faith in God and his Word has always been present since the earliest promise of the gospel in Genesis 3:15, faith becomes an explicit part of Shemitic life with Abraham, the father of all who would believe. Saving faith is not merely faith in God generally, it is a deep and abiding trust in God almighty, the one who acts supernaturally in history.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

TGC 2015: Coming Home

Fri, 17 Apr 2015 04:00:22 -0400

In this episode, we recap our time at the Gospel Coalition 2015 National Conference. The conference was titled Coming Home: New Heaven and New Earth, and the sessions focused on eschatology. To start off, Erica Bucey speaks about several sessions and related books dealing with women’s ministry including Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin and the forthcoming Word-Filled Women’s Ministry edited by Gloria Furman and Kathleen B. Nielson.

Jared Oliphint then details one of the conference sessions, which was convened by Westminster Theological Seminary. The session, hosted by RTS Chancellor J. Ligon Duncan, featured Lane Tipton, Greg Beale, and Jeff Jue. In this riveting session, the panelists discussed different facets of Reformed eschatology. While the session should eventually be available through The Gospel Coalition, we thought we’d share some related content.

Dr. Jeffrey K. Jue currently serves as Provost of Westminster Theological Seminary and is the Stephen Tong Associate Professor of Reformed Theology at Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Jue joined us on Christ the Center episode 31 to speak about the eschatological views of the Westminster divines. We include a segment from that interview as it touches upon the subject matter of his panel discussion at #TGC15.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Erica Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Jue

Which Comes First, the Intellect or the Will?

Fri, 10 Apr 2015 04:00:17 -0400

Jeff Waddington compares Alvin Plantinga and Jonathan Edwards on the perennial anthropological question regarding the relationship between the intellect and the will. In 2000, distinguished Christian philosopher Alvin Plantinga offered an account of how Christian belief squares with warrant in the culmination of his warrant series, Warranted Christian Belief. Key to this analysis is Plantinga’s version of the sensus divinitatus, which is then extended to include explicitly Christian belief with three elements: The Bible, the internal instigation of the Holy Spirit, and faith. Faith, for Plantinga, involves both the intellect and the will. In the book, Plantinga discusses the relationship between the intellect and the will and assesses the view of Jonathan Edwards. In this episode, Jeff Waddington argues his case that Plantinga has misconstrued Edwards. Instead of prioritizing the intellect, Waddington believes Edwards rejects a hierarchical faculty psychology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Disciplines of the Christian Mind

Fri, 03 Apr 2015 04:00:52 -0400

Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey discuss the importance of intellectual discipline for cultivating the life of the Christian mind. In addition to speaking generally about persistent study, the panel also offers several practical tips and suggestions for continued learning.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Luther on the Christian Life

Fri, 27 Mar 2015 04:00:53 -0400

Dr. Carl Trueman joins us to speak about his book Luther on the Christian Life, in which he paints a portrait of Martin Luther through his historical context, theological system, and approach to the Christian life. Luther is often treated in a black-and-white fashion or exclusively through his succinct theological quips and mottoes. Trueman helps us to see the practical and pastoral context in which Luther lived and ministered and thereby grants to us a better understanding of both the man and his theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Jim Cassidy

The Theology of Wolfhart Pannenberg

Fri, 20 Mar 2015 04:00:46 -0400

Carlton Wynne leads us into the world of modern theology by introducing the theology of Wolfhart Pannenberg. Pannenberg (1928–2014) was a leading systematic theologian who introduced an innovative relationship between eschatology and theology proper. By studying his theology in a polemical fashion, we may become better theologians of redemptive history. Carlton Wynne is Lecturer in Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Jim Cassidy

Redeeming Mathematics

Fri, 13 Mar 2015 04:00:56 -0400

Vern Poythress joins us to speak about his book Redeeming Mathematics: A God-Centered Approach. Dr. Poythress explains how the Triune God of the Bible is the foundation for mathematics by arguing that the harmony of abstract mathematical truths, the physical world of things, and the personal world of our thinking depends on the existence of the Christian God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Vern Poythress

Vos Group #14 — Revelation in the Patriarchal Period, Part 3: The Patriarch Abraham

Fri, 06 Mar 2015 05:00:48 -0400

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss the patriarch Abraham as they turn to pp. 76–81 of Geerhardus Vos’s book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. This chapter covers Abraham’s election, and we connect that to the doctrine of God, the nature of biblical covenants, and God’s gracious gift in the gospel of his Son.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Reformed Catholicity

Fri, 27 Feb 2015 05:00:59 -0400

Michael Allen and Scott Swain discuss whether Christians and churches can be both catholic and Reformed. In their book Reformed Catholicity: The Promise of Retrieval for Theology and Biblical Interpretation (Baker Academic), Allen and Swain suggest Reformed Christians can commit not only to the ultimate authority of Scripture but also to receiving Scripture within the context of the apostolic church. This manifesto presents a case that to be Reformed means to go deeper into true catholicity rather than away from it. At the same time, it means holding fast to sola Scriptura.

Michael Allen is Associate Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology and Dean of Students and Scott Swain is Associate Professor of Systematic Theology and Academic Dean at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Michael Allen, Scott Swain

The Sons of God and Daughters of Man in Genesis 6

Fri, 20 Feb 2015 05:00:24 -0400

Throughout history, Genesis 6 has puzzled Bible interpreters. Who are the sons of God? Are they human royalty? Angelic beings? Demons? And who are the daughters of men? Did the union of these two produce demigod offspring who would plague the land? Rita F. Cefalu joins us to bring clarity to this discussion. Ms. Cefalu has written an excellent article, “Royal Priestly Heirs to the Restoration Promise of Genesis 3:15: A Biblical Theological Perspective on the Sons of God in Genesis 6” published in the Westminster Theological Journal. Building upon Meredith Kline, but offering her own interpretation on the matter, Ms. Cefalu provides a thorough and compelling treatment of this difficult passage.

Ms. Cefalu is Adjunct Assistant Professor of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of San Diego. She is a graduate of Westminster Seminary California (MA Theological Studies), Wheaton Graduate School, and a PhD candidate at Queens University Belfast.

6:1 When man began to multiply on the face of the land and daughters were born to them, ²the sons of God saw that the daughters of man were attractive. And they took as their wives any they chose. ³Then the Lord said, “My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years.” ⁴The Nephilim were on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of man and they bore children to them. These were the mighty men who were of old, the men of renown. (Genesis 6:1–4, English Standard Version)

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Rita Cefalu

The Confessional Presbyterian Journal, Volume 10

Fri, 13 Feb 2015 05:00:24 -0400

It’s that time of year again—the time when the latest issue of The Confessional Presbyterian Journal is published. We discuss the new issue and celebrate the journal’s continued focus on historic confessional presbyterianism. This issue includes many interesting articles:

“J. Gresham Machen and LeRoy Gresham: Cousins, Confidants, and Churchmen” by Barry Waugh
“By Their Fruits Ye Shall Know Them—A Timely Admonition from an Ancient Narrative: A Sermon on Genesis 9:18–29” by Joseph E. Rolison
“The Gospel Work of the Diaconate: A Ministry ‘Proportioned in Number'” by C. N. Willborn
“Puritan Instruction for Profitable Hearing of Sermons” by Andy Perry
“McLeod Campbell, Edwards and Atonement” by Jeffrey A. Stivason
“An Extraordinary Case of the Use of the Extraordinary Clause” by Barry Waugh
“Stephen Charnock’s Christological Knowledge of God” by Jae-Eun Park
“De Jure Divino Presbyterianism” by Benjamin Shaw
“The Practice of Lent and the Reformed Tradition” by Roland S. Barnes
“The Liturgical Nature of Ecclesial Ministry” by Glen J. Clary
“Anti-Sabbatarian Scold: Thomas Rogers’ Letter to Nicholas Bownd, April 29, 1598” by Chris Coldwell

This volume also continues the Sic et Non. Views in Review series focused on supposed Westminster Seminary California Distinctives. Mark A. Garcia writes about law and gospel with a response by Michael S. Horton and Jeffrey C. Waddington writes about the Reformed Two Kingdoms Doctrine which is responded to by David VanDrunen.

We are grateful to the publishers for offering special discounts→ on the current issue and back issues of the Confessional Presbyterian Journal good through the end of February 2015. Reproductions of the portrait of J. Gresham Machen on the cover are available from the artist Mike Mahon.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #13 — Revelation in the Patriarchal Period, Part 2: The Angel of Jehovah

Fri, 06 Feb 2015 05:00:02 -0400

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey speak about theophanies before turning to pages 72–76 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology to speak about the Angel of Jehovah, or the Angel of the Lord. The presence of the Angel punctuates epochal moments in covenant history, and his presence is critical during the patriarchal period. Camden’s article, “The Lord and His Messengers: Toward a Trinitarian Interpretation of Malachi 3:1–4,” which was mentioned during the program, was published in The Confessional Presbyterian, Volume 7 (2011).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Understanding the Atonement

Fri, 30 Jan 2015 05:00:33 -0400

In this program we welcome Dr. Donald Macleod to speak about the meaning and significance of Jesus Christ’s work on the cross. In his book Christ Crucified: Understanding the Atonement (IVP Academic), Dr. Macleod considers how the atonement is substitution, expiation, propitiation, reconciliation, satisfaction, redemption and victory. Rev. Macleod was ordained as a minister of the Free Church of Scotland in 1964. He taught systematic theology at the Free Church College (now Edinburgh Theological Seminary) from 1978 to 2011.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Donald Macleod, Jeff Waddington

Planting Reformed Churches

Fri, 23 Jan 2015 05:00:51 -0400

Today we speak with John Shaw, the General Secretary for Home Missions and Church Extension in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. This interview took place in the wake of the OPC’s annual Church Planter’s Conference, in Atlanta, GA. We discussed the biblical principles for planting distinctly Reformed, Confessional, and Presbyterian churches in America today.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, John Shaw

Covenantal Apologetics and Common-Sense Realism

Fri, 16 Jan 2015 05:00:47 -0400

Nathaniel Gray Sutanto joins us to speak about apologetics and his recent article titled, “Covenantal Apologetics and Common-Sense Realism: Recalibrating the Argument from Consciousness as a Test Case” in JETS, 57/4 (2014) 773–91. In this article, Gray offers a covenantal and presuppositional criticism of common-sense realism.

Pneumatology and Eschatology in the Light of 1 Corinthians 15:45 and 2 Corinthians 3:6–18

Fri, 09 Jan 2015 05:00:31 -0400

Building upon Geerhardus Vos’s foundational essay “The Eschatological Aspect of the Pauline Conception of the Spirit” Dr. Lane Tipton develops the role of the Spirit with regard to redemptive history, the law and soteriology. Vos remarks that the core of Paul’s eschatology lies in the sphere of the Spirit. The Spirit, given to the resurrected Christ, inaugurates the eschatological age of the world to come. This world to come is realized climactically in the resurrection of Christ as the firstfruits of the one great resurrection of harvest in the Spirit.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Vos Group #12 — Revelation in the Patriarchal Period, Part 1

Fri, 02 Jan 2015 05:00:46 -0400

For the first Vos Group of 2015, Dr. Lane Tipton guides us through Chapter 7 of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology, “Revelation in the Patriarchal Period,” pp. 66–72. The section titles are Critical Views, The Historicity of the Patriarchs, and Theophanies.

Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon!

Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics.

All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/

If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Highlights from 2014

Fri, 26 Dec 2014 05:00:44 -0400

We close our year with a look at some of our best clips from 2014. Listen to the full episodes of the clips we’ve chosen to include by using the following links:

Episode 318 — Michael Kruger, The Question of Canon
Episode 322 — James Anderson on worldviews
Episode 326 — Matt Perman on gospel-driven productivity
Episode 329 — Randall Pederson on the Puritan family resemblance
Episode 331 — Lane Tipton on the Tree of Life and the goal of eschatology
Episode 335 —Shai Linne on hip-hop, the gospel, and cultural contextualization
Episode 345 — Marcus Peter Johnson on union with Christ and the incarnation
Episode 351 — Charles Hill on the New Testament, the early church and Bart Ehrman’s book How Jesus Became God
Episode 357 — Glen Clary on Zwingli, church tradition, and Reformed worship

Participants: Camden Bucey, Charles Hill, Glen Clary, James Anderson, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Marcus Johnson, Matt Perman, Michael Kruger, Randall Pederson, Shai Linne

China’s Reforming Churches

Fri, 19 Dec 2014 05:00:07 -0400

Dr. Bruce Baugus speaks about the history and current state of missions in China with a focus on Reformed ecclesiology. China’s Reforming Churches: Mission, Polity, and Ministry in the Next Christendom, edited by Dr. Baugus, is a collection of essays from a recent conference held concerning the growing Reformed churches of China.

Dr. Baugus is Associate Professor of Philosophy and Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, MS.

Participants: Bruce Baugus, Camden Bucey, Doug Clawson

Roman Catholic Theology and Practice

Fri, 12 Dec 2014 05:00:00 -0400

This week, Dr. Gregg Allison gives an evangelical perspective of Roman Catholic theology. In his recent book, Roman Catholic Theology and Practice: An Evangelical Assessment, Dr. Allison considers major aspects of Roman Catholic theology, using the recent Catechism of the Catholic Church as his guide. The relationship of nature and grace, Christ’s connection to his church, and the seven sacraments all enter into the discussion, as well as the question, Is the Reformation over?

Dr. Gregg R. Allison is Professor of Christian Theology at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Gregg Allison, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

The Bible, History, and Literary Genre

Fri, 05 Dec 2014 05:00:43 -0400

While the Bible is not a history book in the sense that it’s also not a science book or a theology book, it certainly is historical. But what does that mean for biblical interpretation? In this episode we dive into chapter one of V. Philips Long’s The Art of Biblical History, which is titled, “History and the Genre(s) of the Bible: Is the Bible a History Book?” This is a fascinating conversation with deep implications for how we understanding God’s Word to us in servant form.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Daniel Schrock, Jeff Waddington

The Book of Hebrews

Fri, 28 Nov 2014 05:00:28 -0400

The Christ the Center panel discusses the book of Hebrews, the brief letter of exhortation. The participants look at the main argument of the letter, the superiority of Christ and the new covenant to the old covenant and its priests and sacrificial system. The redemptive historical nature of the discourse is considered as are the major warnings in Hebrews 6 and 10. At the end of the day, Hebrews gives us a divine commentary on the Old Testament. Christ truly is the center of the whole Bible.

Redeeming Philosophy

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 05:00:42 -0400

Dr. Vern Poythress comes to the program today to speak about his book, Redeeming Philosophy. In today’s discussion, Dr. Poythress helps us examine the roots of Western philosophy, uncover some of its limitations, and find answers to our questions in dependence upon God’s word.

Dr. Poythress is the author of a number of books, including Redeeming Science, In the Beginning Was the Word, Redeeming Sociology, and Logic. He has also spoken on Christ the Center episodes 52, 98, 188, 235, 332, and 356, and on Philosophy for Theologians episode 20.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Vern Poythress

Vos Group #11 — Between Noah and the Patriarchs, Part 2

Fri, 14 Nov 2014 05:00:54 -0400

Dr. Lane Tipton is back for Vos Group #11, considering chapter 6 of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology, “The Period Between Noah and the Great Patriarchs.” This week we look at part 2 of the chapter, points 3, The division of tongues, and 4, The election of the Shemites to furnish the bearers of redemption and revelation (pp. 59-65).

All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/

If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Machen’s Lost Work on the Presbyterian Conflict

Fri, 07 Nov 2014 05:00:52 -0400

James W. Scott speaks about the question of whether Machen himself wrote a history of the Presbyterian conflict that led to his defrocking, and accidentally, his death. His articles “Machen’s Lost Work on the Presbyterian Conflict,” Parts 1 and 2, introduce the idea that Edwin Rian’s book, The Presbyterian Conflict, drew on heretofore undiscovered work by Machen himself.

Jim Scott is Managing Editor of New Horizons in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and Publications Coordinator for the Committee on Christian Education of the OPC. His first article is available online via Westminster. Edwin Rian’s book can be found online.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James W. Scott, Jim Cassidy

Zwingli, Sola Scriptura, and the Reformation of Christian Worship

Fri, 31 Oct 2014 04:00:08 -0400

This Reformation Day, Pastor Glen Clary speaks about Ulrich Zwingli, leader in the reform of Christian worship at the time of the Reformation. Pastor Clary highlights “the affair of the sausages” in which Zwingli took a bold stand for the unique authority of Scripture. Sola Scriptura! And happy Reformation Day!

Rev. Clary is the Associate Pastor of Providence OPC, Austin (Pflugerville), Texas. Glen holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Southwestern Christian University, Bethany, Oklahoma, and a Master of Divinity degree from Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is currently a doctoral candidate at Erskine Theological Seminary, studying Reformed worship under Dr. Hughes Oliphant Old at the Institute for Reformed Worship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Hermeneutics in Light of the Divine Author of Scripture

Fri, 24 Oct 2014 04:00:33 -0400

Dr. Vern Poythress joins us to discuss divine and human authorship, in connection with his recent article in the Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society (JETS), “Dispensing with Merely Human Meaning: Gains and Losses from Focusing on the Human Author, Illustrated by Zephaniah 1:2-3.” The major emphasis in current biblical scholarship is upon the Bible’s human authors compared to the divine author, but Dr. Poythress, in his article, questions this trend.

Dr. Poythress is Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA and Editor of the Westminster Theological Journal. Many of his writings are available here.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Vern Poythress

Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics, Divine Authorship, and the Christotelism Debate

Fri, 17 Oct 2014 04:00:27 -0400

Reformed Forum kicks off their 2014 Theology Conference with a live recording of Christ the Center. In this special episode, Lane G. Tipton speaks about the differences Christotelism and Christocentrism with regard to biblical hermeneutics. A debate has been raging for several years, and the panel seeks to clarify the issues and what is at stake.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton

The Reformation: Now and Then

Fri, 10 Oct 2014 04:00:51 -0400

Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy discuss the significance of the Reformation in its own time and its continuing relevance for today. The European Reformations, Carter Lindberg Reformed Forum’s first theology conference begin’s today, and the conference talks will be livestreamed here.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #10 – Between Noah and the Patriarchs, Part 1

Fri, 03 Oct 2014 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Lane Tipton returns for Vos Group #10, to speak about the first two points of chapter six of Vos’ Biblical Theology (pp. 56-59). The first point of chapter six is The prophetic deliverances of Noah [Gen. 9:20-27], and The table of the nations. Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Calvinism Today

Fri, 26 Sep 2014 04:00:44 -0400

Christ the Center regular Dr. Jim Cassidy discusses the present state of Calvinism in evangelical Christianity. Following up on a previous Christ the Center and Reformed Forum blog post, Dr. Cassidy highlights some of his concerns for the contemporary Calvinistic movement. Links

John Piper’s lecture from the 2014 WTS Gaffin lecture.
Collin Hansen’s book, Young, Restless, Reformed: A Journalist’s Journey with the New Calvinists
Jared Oliphint’s synopsis, John Piper’s Twelve Features of the New Calvinism
Jim Cassidy, 5 Reasons Why I Am Not a New Calvinist

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

How God Became Jesus

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 04:00:15 -0400

Drs. Michael J. Kruger and Charles E. Hill speak about a book to which Dr. Hill contributed, How God Became Jesus: The Real Origins of Belief in Jesus’ Divine Nature, a response to Bart D. Ehrman’s How Jesus Became God: The Exaltation of a Jewish Preacher from Galilee. The thesis of Dr. Ehrman’s book is that the doctrine of Jesus’ divinity was an early accretion onto the original truth of Jesus identity – neither Jesus nor Jesus’ disciples believed he was divine. How God Became Jesus is the first book-length response to Ehrman’s latest, and includes a contribution by Dr. Chuck Hill. Their thesis is that Jesus and his disciples rightly believed him to be divine, and that the later formulations of this doctrine reflected that early and accurate tradition. Dr. Charles Hill is John R. Richardson Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando, Florida. His most recent publications include Who Chose the Gospels? Probing the Great Gospel Conspiracy (Oxford University Press, 2010) and The Early Text of the New Testament (Oxford University Press, 2012), edited with Dr. Kruger. He contributed to How God Became Jesus, which also features contributions by Michael Bird, Craig Evans, Simon Gathercole, and Chris Tilling. Dr. Michael Kruger is President and Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC. He received his Ph.D. from New College, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland. He is the author of Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books (Crossway, 2012), The Early Text of the New Testament (Oxford, 2012; edited with Dr. Hill), and The Question of Canon (Intervarsity, 2013). Dr. Kruger has spoken on Christ the Center episodes 217 and 283 and 318.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Charles Hill, Jared Oliphint, Michael Kruger

Vos Group #9 – The Noachian Revelation, Part 2

Fri, 12 Sep 2014 04:00:27 -0400

Dr. Lane Tipton joins us to speak about the rest of chapter 5 (pgs. 51-55) of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology, “The Noachian Revelation and the Development Leading Up to It.” In this portion, Vos explains the significance of the Noahic covenant in its common application to the blessed line of Seth and even to the cursed line of Ham. Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Calvin’s Vision and Legacy for Missions

Fri, 05 Sep 2014 04:00:06 -0400

Drs. Michael Haykin and Jeffrey Robinson Sr. join us to speak about John Calvin and Calvinism’s legacy in missions. Their book To the Ends of the Earth: Calvin’s Missional Vision and Legacy explores John Calvin’s theology concerning missions, the history of his involvement in foreign missions, and the influence of other Calvinistic missionaries of later times. Dr. Haykin is Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary as well as the Director of the Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies. He received his Th.D. in Church History from Wycliffe College and the University of Toronto and has written several books. Dr. Robinson is adjunct Professor of Church History at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, editor for The Gospel Coalition, and a senior fellow at the Andrew Fuller Center for Baptist Studies. He received his PhD at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and has contributed to the forthcoming volume from Crossway, One God in Three Persons.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jeffrey Robinson Sr., Michael A.G. Haykin

The Origin of the Suffering Servant Idea

Fri, 29 Aug 2014 04:00:14 -0400

The Christ the Center panel discuss Edward J. Young’s “The Origin of the Suffering Servant Idea.” While Isaiah 53’s well-known figure bears similarities to the myths of “dying and rising gods” in other ancient near east cultures, none of those figures is quite like the suffering servant of that chapter, which is the Lord Jesus Christ. E. J. Young, “The Origin of the Suffering Servant Idea” Westminster Theological Journal 15.1 (Fall 1950).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

The Practice of Ecclesiology

Fri, 22 Aug 2014 04:00:18 -0400

Several contributors are on location in Green Lake, Wisconsin as we discuss the practice of ecclesiology. Although ecclesiology is one of the traditional loci of systematic theology, it is often under-studied and even under-appreciated. Even if we do study the subject thoroughly, we can fail to put biblical ecclesiology into practice as we ought. In this episode we discuss the practical importance of ecclesiology.

Union with Christ and the Body of Christ

Fri, 15 Aug 2014 04:00:04 -0400

Once again, we are joined by Dr. Marcus Johnson, author of One with Christ: An Evangelical Theology of Salvation. This time Dr. Johnson spells out the implications of the doctrine of union with Christ for the application of salvation and for Christ’s body, the church. For the first part of our interview with Dr. Johnson, click here. Dr. Johnson is Associate Professor of Theology at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL. He received his M.A. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and his Ph.D. from Trinity College, University of Toronto. Camden Bucey reviewed One with Christ on a recent episode of Reformed Media Review. Link to Austin theology conference.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy, Marcus Johnson

Union with Christ and the Incarnation

Fri, 08 Aug 2014 04:00:39 -0400

Dr. Marcus Johnson speaks about One with Christ: An Evangelical Theology of Salvation, his recent book, published by Crossway. While many books have been published recently on the topic of union with Christ, Dr. Johnson’s book stands out for its up-to-date analysis and unique approach. One with Christ charts a via media between federalist and realist approaches to the doctrine of union with Christ, a way which Johnson calls Christological realism. Listen to understand Dr. Johnson’s unique but scriptural treatment of the doctrine of union with Christ. Dr. Johnson is Associate Professor of Theology at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, IL. He received his M.A. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and his Ph.D. from Trinity College, University of Toronto. Camden Bucey reviewed One with Christ on a recent episode of Reformed Media Review.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy, Marcus Johnson

Vos Group #8: The Development Leading Up to the Noachian Revelation, Part 1

Fri, 01 Aug 2014 04:00:25 -0400

This week, Dr. Lane Tipton leads Christ the Center’s “Vos Group” through chapter 5 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology, “The Noachian Revelation and the Development Leading Up to It.” In the first part of the chapter, pages 45-51, Vos explores the significance of the Canaanites and the Sethites in the biblical story, prior to Noah. Next time, we will discuss the rest of chapter 5, pages 51-55. Check out Banner of Truth’s new cloth-bound hardcover edition of Biblical Theology! (Select “cloth-bound.”) Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Listener Feedback: Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics, Preaching, and Apologetic Arguments

Fri, 25 Jul 2014 04:00:07 -0400

Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, and Bob Tarullo tackle listeners’ questions this week, concerning redemptive-historical hermeneutics and preaching as well as apologetic arguments. Please send in your own questions which we can address in a later episode! Our last Listener Feedback episode was Christ the Center episode 317.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Robert Tarullo

Confessing the Faith

Fri, 18 Jul 2014 04:00:27 -0400

Dr. Chad B. Van Dixhoorn visits Christ the Center to speak about his forthcoming book, Confessing the Faith: A Reader’s Guide to the Westminster Confession (Banner of Truth Trust, 2014). The book is a thorough help for understanding the Westminster Confession, useful for pastors and for Christians seeking to deepen their knowledge of Reformed doctrine. Today, Dr. Van Dixhoorn discusses questions concerning the Confession’s treatment of the doctrine of Scripture, of Salvation, of the Church, and more. Dr. Van Dixhoorn is a graduate of Westminster Theological Seminary (MDiv, ThM) and the University of Cambridge (PhD). He has taught theology at the University of Nottingham, and has held three fellowships at the University of Cambridge, where he has researched the history and theology of the Westminster assembly and taught on the subject of Puritanism. A former British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow, in 2013 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. Van Dixhoorn has lectured at RTS DC since 2008 where he teaches church history and practical theology. Van Dixhoorn has served as associate minister of Cambridge Presbyterian Church and Grace Presbyterian Church in Vienna, VA, where he preaches weekly. He and his wife Emily have five children. He is also the editor of The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly, 1643-1653 and he was featured on Christ the Center episode 134.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #7: The Content of the First Redemptive Special Revelation

Fri, 11 Jul 2014 04:00:10 -0400

The seventh episode of Vos Group, we arrive at chapter 4 of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology, with Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey. Having completed discussion of pre-redemptive special revelation, Vos moves to consideration of the first redemptive special revelation, which includes three curses, mention of the seed of both the woman and of the serpent, and prophecy of human suffering.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Seeing Jesus in the Prophets

Fri, 04 Jul 2014 05:00:44 -0400

Nancy Guthrie joins us to talk about seeing the Lord Jesus in the Old Testament prophets. The Word of the Lord: Seeing Jesus in the Prophets is the fifth in her Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament series, and in it she explores everything from the suffering servant of Isaiah and the love of the prophet Hosea for his unfaithful wife, to Daniel’s stone that crushes every human kingdom and Ezekiel’s vision of the heavenly temple.

Nancy Guthrie’s website is http://www.nancyguthrie.com/. Nancy has spoken on Christ the Center about the first three books in this series, The Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis, The Wisdom of God: Seeing Jesus in the Psalms and Wisdom Books, and The Son of David: Seeing Jesus in the Historical Books.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nancy Guthrie

Dutch Immigration and American Presbyterianism

Fri, 27 Jun 2014 05:00:03 -0400

Bryan Winter discusses the relationship between Dutch immigrants and the American Presbyterian Church, particularly as seen in the ministry of the Dutch secessionist minister, Peter Zonne. Winter is an attorney who practices law in Lake County, Illinois and serves as a Deacon at Hope OPC in Grayslake. Mr. Winter’s yet unpublished paper on Zonne details how Zonne uniquely led his congregation of Dutch Reformed immigrants in Wisconsin to join the American Presbyterian Church. Thus, Zonne transcended his ethnic identity to become the founder of Dutch-American Presbyterianism, in Wisconsin. This episode’s feature photo shows the church in Genderen, the Netherlands, which Zonne pastored from 1842–46.

Participants: Bryan Winter, Camden Bucey

Ecumenical and Inter-Church Relations

Fri, 20 Jun 2014 05:00:49 -0400

Mark Bube and Kurt Vetterli speak today about ecumenism and inter-church relations. Mark Bube, general secretary of foreign missions in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, plays an important part in the OPC’s ecumenism because the OPC collaborates with other NAPARC denominations in foreign missions, supporting the missionaries of other denominations and receiving support for their own missionaries. Kurt Vetterli is a pastor in Basel, Switzerland, in a reformed church connected to the OPC. Links:

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Kurt Vetterli, Mark Bube

Confessional Subscription and the Animus Imponentis

Fri, 13 Jun 2014 05:00:32 -0400

Dr. Alan Strange comes to the program to discuss the animus imponentis. Animus imponentis is a legal term that refers to the meaning of the words of an oath or confession that is intended by the body imposing the oath or confession. The concept clarifies what it means for officers of a modern church to subscribe to a confession composed by men who lived several centuries ago. On today’s episode, Dr. Strange explains the animus imponentis in greater detail and applies it to the issue of the days of creation, the topic of an OPC committee of which Dr. Strange was a part. Dr. Strange is Professor of Church History, Registrar, and Theological Librarian at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. He recently completed a Ph.D. from the University of Wales. Conference talks on the animus imponentis: http://www.pncnopc.org/audio/audio-presbytery/2009-animus-imponentis-conference/ “What is the ‘System of Doctrine?'” – Charles Hodge: http://www.pcahistory.org/documents/subscription/hodge.html OPC report on the creation days: http://opc.org/GA/CreationReport.pdf

Participants: Adam York, Alan Strange, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Vos Group #6: The Content of Pre-Redemptive Special Revelation, Part 2

Fri, 06 Jun 2014 05:00:22 -0400

Dr. Lane Tipton returns to Christ the Center for the sixth episode of Vos Group, concerning the second half of chapter three of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology (pp. 33-40). Vos established in the previous chapter the presence of special revelation in the garden of Eden, in the probationary covenant of works. In this chapter, he highlights four principles made known in the covenant, the first two of which are “the principle of life” and “the principle of probation,” discussed last episode. This episode, Drs. Tipton and Bucey discuss “the principle of temptation and sin symbolized in the serpent,” and “the principle of death symbolized by the dissolution of the body.” Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Lyrical Theology: Doxology

Fri, 30 May 2014 05:00:46 -0400

Today we welcome to the program hip-hop recording artist Shai Linne to speak about his brand new album Lyrical Theology: Doxology, part two of a three-part hip-hop album series. Shai’s album is based on the conviction that all thinking about God should lead to worship of him. Our discussion covers cultural engagement and contextualization, with Shai’s music as a prime example, as well as the theology that underlies this album and Shai’s other albums. Shai Linne is a hip-hop artist with Lamp Mode Recordings and a member of Capitol Hill Baptist Church. His album Lyrical Theology: Doxology can be found on iTunes and Amazon, and on Youtube, a music video of his track “Be Glorified (Psalm 55).” Timothy Brindle is a student at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA, and his record label is Lamp Mode Recordings. We interviewed Timothy about his music in episode 300.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Shai Linne, Timothy Brindle

How Did Evil Come Into the World?

Fri, 23 May 2014 05:00:30 -0400

Dr. William Edgar discusses the question, How Did Evil Come Into the World?, which is also the title of his recent addition to the Christian Answers to Hard Questions series. Today’s conversation covers the same territory as the booklet, how a good God can be the creator and sovereign of a world now filled with evil, and how scientific developments related to Darwinism and evolution challenge or harmonize with the Biblical account of suffering and sin. Dr. Edgar guides listeners and readers to a view of God and evil that recognizes both the terrible reality of evil and the supreme reality of God’s good plan. Dr. Edgar is Professor of Apologetics and John Boyer Chair of Evangelism and Culture at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelpia, PA. Dr. Edgar serves as part of the Christian Renaissance Foundation, the European Leadership Forum, and the Huguenot Fellowship, among other responsibilities.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, William Edgar

How Can I Know For Sure?

Fri, 16 May 2014 05:00:25 -0400

Dr. David Garner comes to the program to speak about the topic of his new booklet, “How Can I Know For Sure?” from the Christian Answers to Hard Questions Series, published by P&R Publishing. Church members and especially college students are breathing in the air of popular postmodernism, and the question of certainty requires an answer. Dr. Garner argues that to find answers we must look to the Bible as God’s authoritative word for mankind. Dr. Garner is Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA.

Participants: A. Craig Troxel, Camden Bucey, David Garner, Jared Oliphint

Chance and the Sovereignty of God

Fri, 09 May 2014 05:00:12 -0400

Dr. Vern S. Poythress, Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA, speaks about his new book, Chance and the Sovereignty of God: A God-Centered Approach to Probability and Random Events (Crossway). The fifth in a series of “God-Centered Approaches,” Chance and the Sovereignty of God explores the mathematics of probability as well as the relationship of God’s sovereignty to chance events. Today, Dr. Poythress explains how Christians can approach chance in practical events as well as in academic study, whether scientific or mathematical. Dr. Poythress is the author of a number of books, including Redeeming Science, In the Beginning Was the Word, Redeeming Sociology, and Logic. He has also spoken on Christ the Center episodes 52, 98, 188, and 235, and on Philosophy for Theologians episode 20.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Vern Poythress

Vos Group #5: The Content of Pre-Redemptive Special Revelation, Part 1

Fri, 02 May 2014 05:00:00 -0400

For the fifth episode of Vos Group, Dr. Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey examine the first portion of chapter three of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology (pp. 27-33). Vos has established the presence of special revelation in the garden of Eden, God’s words to Adam and Eve concerning the probationary covenant of works. In this chapter, he highlights four principles made known in this special revelation, the first two of which are “the principle of life in its highest potency sacramentally symbolized by the tree of life,” and “the principle of probation symbolized in the same manner by the tree of knowledge of good and evil.” Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Ancient Church Observance of the Lord’s Supper

Fri, 25 Apr 2014 11:24:31 -0400

Today we speak with Glen Clary about his DMin dissertation titled, “Celebrating Holy Communion According to the Customs of the Ancient Church: A Reformed Communion Liturgy Based on the Eucharistic Liturgy of the Didache.” The Didache is a very early document that teaches about several important topics, including the early church’s observance of the Lord’s Supper. Listen to learn more about the Didache itself, how it relates to the reformation, and what instruction it can offer to churches today.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

The Puritan Family Resemblance

Fri, 18 Apr 2014 05:00:37 -0400

Dr. Randall J. Pederson offers a helpful method for resolving the perennial challenge of defining Puritanism. Pederson suggests that Wittgenstein’s concept of familienähnlichkeit (family resemblance) provides a perspective “that within seventeenth-century English Puritanism there is a unitas and a diversitas that, when considered together, suggest a unitas in diversitate that warrants the use of the term ‘Puritanism,’ in the singular, and is preferable to more deconstructionist notions of Puritanisms, which would seem to undermine confessional sensibilities of most Puritans.” Dr. Pederson’s dissertation, Unity in Diversity: English Puritans and the Puritan Reformation, 1603–1689, will soon be published by Brill. A summary and title page are currently available from the University of Leiden, who will release the dissertation from embargo in May 2015. Dr. Pederson is managing editor of The Westminster Theological Journal, the co-editor of Meet the Puritans, and the editor of Daily Readings: The Puritans.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Randall Pederson

Who Raised Up Jesus?

Fri, 11 Apr 2014 05:00:52 -0400

Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, and Jim Cassidy discuss John Murray’s article, “Who Raised Up Jesus?” from The Westminster Theological Journal 3.2 (May 1941): 113–123. An answer to Murray’s question requires a search of the biblical text, an analysis of Greek grammar, a discussion of the doctrine of the Trinity—in short, the use of all the resources that Christian students of the Bible have at their disposal. Listen to this informative discussion.

Vos Group #4: The Mapping Out of the Field of Revelation

Fri, 04 Apr 2014 05:00:36 -0400

This fourth episode of Vos Group, Dr. Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey tackle chapter 2 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology (pp. 19-26). Topics of discussion include the relationship of general/natural and special/supernatural revelation, sin and revelation, and divine covenants. Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Practical Theology of Productivity and Stewardship

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 05:00:53 -0400

Matt Perman is the author of What’s Best Next: How the Gospel Transforms the Way We Work, a book about productivity and the stewardship of time and work. Matt highlights all the good that can be gained from the literature on business and productivity, showing how the best principles observed by secular thinkers conform to the pattern of biblical teaching. Of course, the gospel the world did not know by its wisdom, so Matt’s gospel-informed advice goes beyond other literature in a particularly Christian way. Matthew Perman formerly served as the senior director of strategy at Desiring God Ministries in Minneapolis, MN, and is a frequent speaker on the topics of leadership and productivity from a God-centered perspective. He has an MDiv from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and a Project Management Professional certification from the Project Management Institute. Matt regularly blogs and contributes to a number of other online publications as well. He lives in Minneapolis.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Matt Perman

The Old and New Calvinisms

Fri, 21 Mar 2014 05:00:39 -0400

Reformed Forum founders Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, and Jeff Waddington speak about the Old and New Calvinisms. As the speaker for the annual Gaffin lecture, John Piper recently spoke at Westminster Theological Seminary (PA) on the topic, “The New Calvinism and the New Community.” The New Calvinism, a cross-denominational movement, recaptures many elements of the Old, but the two differ in some respects. Today’s panel reflects on the similarities and differences between the two, following up on several recent Reformed Forum blog posts. Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Warfield on the Mode of Inspiration

Fri, 14 Mar 2014 05:00:02 -0400

Jeffrey A. Stivason speaks about B.B. Warfield’s doctrine of inspiration. In his doctoral dissertation, From Inscrutability to Concursus: Benjamin B. Warfield’s Theological Construction of Inspiration’s Mode from 1880 to 1915., Pastor Stivason highlights the development over time of Warfield’s articulation of inspiration. While Warfield’s influence on the contemporary doctrine of inspiration was monumental, he didn’t arrive at his position all at once but developed it further during a time when the perfection of Scripture was under attack. Jeffrey A. Stivason is pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church (RPCNA) in Gibsonia, PA. He completed his dissertation and earned his Ph.D. in 2013 at Westminster Theological Seminary (PA).

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Jeff Stivason, Jeff Waddington

The Final Days of Jesus

Fri, 07 Mar 2014 05:00:01 -0400

Justin Taylor joins us to speak about The Final Days of Jesus: The Most Important Week of the Most Important Person Who Ever Lived, which he has coauthored with Dr. Andreas Köstenberger. Mr. Taylor speaks about the book not only as an author but also as a publisher and editor at Crossway Books. The conversation highlights the format of the book, the gap the book fills in the literature on Easter, and some of the authors’ conclusions about the biblical accounts of Jesus’ last week. Justin Taylor is vice president of book publishing and an associate publisher at Crossway, and a PhD candidate at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has edited and contributed to several books including A God-Entranced Vision of All Things and Reclaiming the Center, and he blogs at Between Two Worlds—hosted by the Gospel Coalition.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Justin Taylor

What’s Your Worldview?

Fri, 28 Feb 2014 05:00:06 -0400

Dr. James N. Anderson speaks about his recent book What’s Your Worldview?: An Interactive Approach to Life’s Big Questions, published by Crossway. The book takes the reader through important theological and philosophical questions in a “Choose Your Own Adventure” style, leading to a label and description of the reader’s own worldview. Dr. Anderson explains the setup of the book and a number of ways it might be used, and also discusses the idea of a worldview and what important elements constitute one. Dr. Anderson is associate professor of theology and philosophy at the Charlotte campus of Reformed Theological Seminary. He received his Ph.D. at the University of Edinburgh, writing about paradox in Christian theology. That study became his book, Paradox in Christian Theology: An Analysis of Its Presence, Nature, and Epistemic Status, which was the subject of a previous episode of Christ the Center.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, James Anderson, Jared Oliphint

Being Reformed, and Staying Christian in Seminary

Fri, 21 Feb 2014 05:00:19 -0400

Today’s panel recently attended the 2014 Desiring God Pastors’ Conference titled, “The Pastor, the Vine, and the Branches: The Remarkable Reality of Union with Christ,” as representatives for Reformed Forum and Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, PA. The group speaks about the opportunity to spread the ministry of Reformed Forum beyond the bounds of Presbyterianism and the relationship of confessional Reformed theology to the broader, more loosely Reformed community. This episode also features an interview with David Mathis and Jonathan Parnell of Desiring God Ministries about their recent book, How to Stay Christian in Seminary. David Mathis is executive editor at desiringGod.org and an elder at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis, MN. He has edited several books and is co-author of How to Stay Christian in Seminary. Jonathan Parnell is a writer and content strategist for Desiring God Minstries and co-author of How to Stay Christian in Seminary. The book was inspired by a series of blog posts at desiringGod.org. B.B. Warfield’s The Religious Life of Theological Students

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Mathis, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Jonathan Parnell

Vos Group #3: The Nature and Method of Biblical Theology, Part 2

Fri, 14 Feb 2014 05:00:39 -0400

For the third episode of Vos Group, Dr. Lane Tipton joins Camden Bucey to discuss the final portion of the first chapter of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology (pp. 11-18, “Guiding Principles” through the end of ch. 1). Vos’s view of biblical authority governs his method of studying Scripture and particularly the use he makes of knowledge of the biblical authors’ historical contexts. Today’s discussion also covers the relationship between biblical and systematic theology. Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/resources/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

By Faith, Not by Sight

Fri, 07 Feb 2014 05:00:34 -0400

Dr. Richard B. Gaffin Jr. joins us to speak about his book By Faith, Not by Sight: Paul and the Order of Salvation, now in its second edition and published by P&R Publishing. This study in Paul’s theology begins with the recognition that what is of first importance for Paul is the history of salvation, Christ crucified and raised. But the history of redemption does not exclude the application of redemption to believers. Rather, the application of redemption is grounded in its once-for-all accomplishment. Listen in to hear an exciting discussion about an illuminating book. Dr. Gaffin is Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Emeritus at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. He is also the author of numerous articles and books, including Resurrection and Redemption, Calvin and the Sabbath, Perspectives on Pentecost, By Faith, Not By Sight and he has edited a collection of the shorter writings of Geerhardus Vos, Redemptive History and Biblical Interpretation. In May of 2008 Dr. Gaffin entered into honored retirement and was the recipient of a festschrift entitled Resurrection and Eschatology co-edited by Lane G. Tipton and Jeffrey C. Waddington. Christ the Center has featured Dr. Gaffin on several episodes. Dr. Gaffin’s book was given to the attendees at the 2014 Desiring God Conference for Pastors. The topic of the conference was union with Christ. To introduce the attendees of that conference to Reformed Forum, we compiled many of episodes and links to resources on the doctrine. Please visit our union with Christ page. Lectures by Dr. Gaffin on union with Christ at Calvary OPC, Ringoes, NJ. Lectures at Matthews OPC. iTunes U: By Faith, Not by Sight. Also available is a PDF version of “The Puritans on Justification, Union with Christ, and Regeneration” in A Puritan Theology, edited by Joel Beeke and Mark Jones.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

The Question of Canon

Fri, 31 Jan 2014 05:00:01 -0400

Dr. Michael J. Kruger speaks with Christ the Center about his recent book, The Question of Canon: Challenging the Status Quo in the New Testament Debate. The book deals not with why we have the books we do in the canon but with the question of the very definition of “canon” and the origin of the idea. Contemporary biblical scholars insist that the idea of canon was a late development in the construction of the New Testament, which imbued with authority texts whose authors did not think of them as authoritative. Dr. Kruger insists that the concept of a set of authoritative books for the New Covenant era of redemptive-history existed from a very early date in the ancient church. Dr. Michael Kruger is President and Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC. He received his B.S. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, his M.Div. from Westminster Theological Seminary in California, and his Ph.D. from New College, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland. He is the author of three books on the issue of canon, Canon Revisited: Establishing the Origins and Authority of the New Testament Books (Crossway, 2012), The Early Text of the New Testament (Oxford, 2012; edited with Charles Hill), and now, The Question of Canon. In addition to his faculty duties, he currently serves part-time as the Pastor of Discipleship Training at Uptown Christ Covenant Church in downtown Charlotte. Dr. Kruger has spoken on Christ the Center episodes 217 and 283, and his wife, Melissa Kruger, has spoken on episodes 276, 297, and 301.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Michael Kruger, Nick Batzig

Listener Feedback: National Israel, Republication, and Single-Volume Systematic Theologies

Fri, 24 Jan 2014 05:00:04 -0400

On the sixth anniversary of Christ the Center, we respond to listener feedback with the original contributors. Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey speak about a variety of subjects, including the corporate and individual aspects of life in Israel, the republication of the Covenant of Works in the Mosaic economy, and suggested single-volume systematic theologies.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

J. Oliver Buswell and Cornelius Van Til

Fri, 17 Jan 2014 05:00:15 -0400

David Owen Filson speaks about Dr. J. Oliver Buswell, theologian and former president of Wheaton College and Covenant College and Seminary. A fundamentalist involved with J. Gresham Machen in the founding of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, Buswell joined the Bible Presbyterian Church when it split with the fledgling OPC over premilennialism and teetotalism. He continued to be an interlocutor with members of the OPC and faculty at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, eventually locking heads with Cornelius Van Til over apologetic and theological method. David has recently researched the correspondence between the two men in the archives of Covenant and Westminster (PA) seminaries.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jeff Waddington

Vos Group #2: The Nature and Method of Biblical Theology, Part 1

Fri, 10 Jan 2014 05:00:15 -0400

Dr. Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey open up Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology for the second episode of Vos Group. On pages 3-11 (Chapter 1 up to, but not including, “Guiding Principles”), Vos sets out the nature of the discipline of biblical theology and its relationship to the different departments of theology. In short, biblical theology is a study of the history of God’s special revelation which is his authoritative interpretation of the history of redemption. The discussion also covers Vos’ historical methodology, the organic nature of special revelation, and the particularly practical side of biblical theology. Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/resources/vos/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Highlights from 2013

Fri, 03 Jan 2014 05:00:12 -0400

We begin the New Year with a look at some of our best clips from 2013. Listen to the full episodes of the clips we’ve chosen to include by using the following links:

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Carlton Wynne, Darryl G. Hart, David Gibson, David Murray, James White, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy, John Currid, Jonathan Gibson, K. Scott Oliphint, Lane G. Tipton, Michael Emlet, Nick Batzig, Scott Manetsch, Scott R. Wright, Timothy Brindle, Vern Poythress, William Edgar

The Peniel Bible Conference and the OPC

Fri, 27 Dec 2013 05:00:54 -0400

Caroline Weerstra speaks with Christ the Center about the Peniel Bible Conference, based on her article “The Early History of Peniel Bible Conference, Part 1: Zeal Without Knowledge (1933-1938).” The camp was associated with Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Schenectady, New York, Mrs. Weerstra’s home church. Though associated with a reformed church, the camp was very similar to the Wesleyan and holiness movements in theology and practice. Listen to understand how this camp became associated with the OPC and how Calvary Church finally remained in the OPC. Mrs. Weerstra is a mother of three, a blogger, and the author of several catechism workbooks for children. Her article “The Early History of Peniel Bible Conference, Part 1: Zeal Without Knowledge (1933-1938)” appeared in Vol. 75 No. 2 of the Westminster Theological Journal.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Caroline Weerstra, Jeff Waddington, John Muether

Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief

Fri, 20 Dec 2013 05:00:05 -0400

We welcome Dr. John M. Frame, Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, FL. Dr. Frame has written a new book, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Christian Belief (P&R Publishing). Listen as we speak about the importance of theology, the nature of theological methodology, and the foundational doctrines of the faith. Dr. Frame has written extensively over the years, and you may access many of his resources online at frame-poythress.org.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, John Frame

An Introduction to Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology

Fri, 13 Dec 2013 05:00:04 -0400

Dr. Lane G. Tipton joins Camden Bucey to begin a new series on Geerhardus Vos’ important book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. For the past thirteen years, Dr. Tipton has led the “Vos Group” at Calvary Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Glenside, PA. Each month, the Vos Group gathers to discuss Reformed biblical theology by studying Scripture and important works by Vos, Kline, Clowney, Gaffin, et al. We are delighted to bring this great teaching to a broader audience. Roughly each month, Lane and Camden will work through the pages of Vos’ Biblical Theology. While Vos’ book is foundational, it’s tough for the “uninitiated” to access. This will be a great opportunity for study groups to listen to our discussions and work things out together. We hope everyone who participates will learn more about Reformed biblical theology. Pick up a copy of Biblical Theology and get on the BT wagon! Lane G. Tipton is Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has appeared numerous times on our programs. Please visit our archives to listen to Dr. Tipton speak about a range of theological topics. All the episodes in this series will be available at http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/ If you’d like to subscribe only to these episodes (rather than all episodes of Christ the Center), just use the following feed: http://reformedforum.org/category/series/vos-group/feed

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

The Scottish Commissioners and the Westminster Assembly

Fri, 06 Dec 2013 05:00:29 -0400

It’s often argued that because of the political climate, the Scottish commissioners to the Westminster Assembly had full rein over the Westminster Assembly and the confessional documents it produced. In this episode, we are pleased to welcome Dr. Wayne Spear to analyze this common perception. Dr. Spear looks specifically at the influence of the Scottish commissioners upon the ecclesiology of the Westminster Assembly. Dr. Spear has published an excellent book with Reformation Heritage Books entitled, Covenanted Uniformity in Religion: The Influence of the Scottish Commissioners upon the Ecclesiology of the Westminster Assembly. Dr. Spear is Professor Emeritus of Systematic Theology at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA. Dr. Spear has authored Talking to God: The Theology of Prayer; Faith of Our Fathers: A Commentary on the Westminster Confession of Faith; “The Westminster Confession of Faith and Holy Scripture,” in To Glorify and Enjoy God (Co-author); “Augustine’s Doctrine of Biblical Infallibility,” in Inerrancy and the Church; and, “The Westminster Assembly’s Directory for Church Government,” in Pressing Toward the Mark (Co-author).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, Wayne Spear

The Virgin Birth of Christ

Fri, 29 Nov 2013 05:00:40 -0400

Dr. Brandon Crowe explains the reality and significance of the virgin birth, based on his booklet, “Was Jesus Really Born of a Virgin?,” from the Christian Answers to Hard Questions series. He explains the biblical basis for the doctrine and responds to a host of objections – those scientific, philosophical, mythological, and theological, to name a few. Dr. Crowe is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He received his M.Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary and his Ph.D. from the University of Edinburgh. His dissertation has been published as The Obedient Son: Deuteronomy and Christology in the Gospel of Matthew which he spoke about on Christ the Center episode 239. The Christian Answers to Hard Questions series is published by Westminster Press through P&R Publishing.

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Antinomianism and Reformed Theology

Fri, 22 Nov 2013 05:00:41 -0400

Dr. Mark Jones returns to Christ the Center to revive seventeenth-century wisdom about antinomianism from his forthcoming book Antinomianism: Reformed Theology’s Unwelcome Guest?. Antinomian thinking is rooted in a weak view of the person of Christ and leads to reducing sanctification to justification. Dr. Jones addresses Martin Luther’s relationship to antinomianism, the relationship between theology and practice, and the necessity of good works for salvation. Dr. Mark Jones is the minister of Faith Presbyterian Church, a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), in Vancouver, British Columbia. He is also Research Associate in the Faculty of Theology at University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa. Mark’s Ph.D. is from Leiden Universiteit (Oct. 2009) and his doctoral dissertation was entitled, “Why Heaven Kissed Earth: The Christology of the Puritan Reformed Orthodox theologian, Thomas Goodwin (1600–1680).” Dr. Jones has spoken on Christ the Center 249 and 218.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy, Mark Jones

Definite Atonement in Perspective

Fri, 15 Nov 2013 05:00:41 -0400

The doctrine of definite atonement is the subject of this week’s episode, which features guests David Gibson and Jonathan Gibson, editors of the forthcoming From Heaven He Came and Sought Her: Definite Atonement in Historical, Biblical, Theological, and Pastoral Perspective (Crossway), and Carl Trueman, a contributor to the book and former guest on Christ the Center. The 700-page book features essays from twenty-one scholars and pastors and is intended to be a definitive treatment of the topic. In the episode, we consider definite atonement in church history, in the scriptural witness, in relation to the doctrine of the trinity, with a view to common objections. David Gibson ministers at Trinity Church in Aberdeen, Scotland and received his Ph.D. from the University of Aberdeen. Gibson has also written Rich: The Reality of Encountering Jesus and Reading the Decree: Exegesis, Election and Christology in Calvin and Barth. Jonathan Gibson is currently working on a Ph.D. in Hebrew Studies at Cambridge University. He studied at Moore Theological College, in Sydney, Australia, and has been published in Themelios, in the Journal of Biblical Literature, and in the NIV Proclamation Bible.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, David Gibson, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Gibson

Imitating God in Christ

Fri, 08 Nov 2013 05:00:18 -0400

Dr. Jason B. Hood speaks about the imitation of Christ, based on the biblical theological study found in his book, Imitating God in Christ: Recapturing a Biblical Pattern. The teaching of imitation is sometimes clouded by a “gospel-centered” focus on justification that loses sight of the importance of sanctification in salvation. Dr. Hood clears away these misconceptions to show how the indicative of Christ’s person and work is consistent with the imperative of imitation of Christ. The episode also deals with the concept of the image of God, the imitation of the saints, and the biblical theological basis of imitation from Old Testament to New. Dr. Hood will soon be pastor of St. Margaret’s Anglican Church in Moshi, Tanzania, as well as a professor at Munguishi Bible College, part of the Anglican Diocese of Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. He has also served as an adjunct faculty member at Reformed Theological Seminary in Washington, DC and taught biblical theology of mission with the Memphis Fellows Initiative. Imitating God in Christ is published by IVP Academic.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jason B. Hood

Abraham Kuyper: Modern Calvinist, Christian Democrat

Fri, 01 Nov 2013 05:00:27 -0400

Dr. James Bratt speaks about Abraham Kuyper: Modern Calvinist, Christian Democrat (Eerdmans). Dr. Bratt places Kuyper in historical context and clarifies Kuyper’s thought and life for current reflection on theology and politics. Dr. Bratt teaches history at Calvin College, blogs, and has edited and authored a number of books, including Abraham Kuyper: A Centennial Reader and By the Vision of Another World: Worship in American History.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, James Bratt, Jim Cassidy

Biblical Psychology and the New Perspective on Paul

Fri, 25 Oct 2013 05:00:20 -0400

Paul Maxwell joins Camden Bucey and Jonathan Brack to speak about his response to Krister Stendahl in the Spring 2013 edition of the Westminster Theological Journal. Stendahl, Swedish theologian and New Testament scholar, presented his paper “The Apostle Paul and the Introspective Conscience of the West” before the American Psychological Association in 1961. He argued that the Western understanding of Paul as concerned about clearing his conscience before God was mistaken. Proponents of the New Perspective on Paul trace their theological perspective to Stendahl’s ideas. In this episode, Maxwell defends the Protestant reading of Paul against Stendahl’s psychological concerns. In doing so, Maxwell compares Stendahl’s article with the biblical counseling movement and a Reformed approach to psychology. Paul Maxwell is a Ph.D. student in Historical and Theological Studies at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He wrote, “Analyzing the Apostle Paul’s “Robust Conscience”: Identifying and Engaging the Psychological Concerns of Krister Stendahl’s Inceptive Article” in the Westminster Theological Journal, Vol. 75, No. 1 (Spring 2013).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jonathan Brack, Paul Maxwell

The History of Calvinism

Fri, 18 Oct 2013 05:00:56 -0400

Darryl G. Hart returns to the program to speak about the history of Calvinism from his new book, Calvinism: A History. The episode gives a taste of the book, the genesis and spread of Calvinism from Geneva, through England and the Netherlands, to the West and East sides of the world.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, David Filson, Jim Cassidy

Crazy Busy

Fri, 11 Oct 2013 05:00:21 -0400

Kevin DeYoung speaks about his recent book Crazy Busy: A [Mercifully] Short Book about a [Really] Big Problem, published by Crossway Books. Pastor DeYoung diagnoses the causes of busyness, some of which are innocent, but many sinful. The book touches on practical concerns like social media and technology, but goes deeper, exposing the pride in our hearts. Kevin DeYoung is the Senior Pastor at University Reformed Church (RCA) in East Lansing, Michigan and the author of several books including Don’t Call it a Comeback: The Old Faith for a New Day and The Hole in Our Holiness: Filling the Gap Between Gospel Passion and Pursuing Godliness. He also posts regularly at his blog. DeYoung has spoken on Christ the Center several times, including episodes 206 and 211.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Kevin DeYoung

John Newton on Grace in Sanctification

Fri, 04 Oct 2013 05:00:05 -0400

Barbara Duguid speaks about John Newton’s writings on the Christian life based on her book Extravagant Grace: God’s Glory Displayed in Our Weakness. She appropriates John Newton’s wisdom to comfort and encourage Christians who feel guilt and failure in their fight against sin. Barbara Duguid is a counselor and member of Christ Presbyterian Church (ARP) in Grove City, Pennsylvania. She holds an advanced certificate in biblical counseling from the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation in Glenside, Pennsylvania. Melissa Kruger is the author of The Envy of Eve: Finding Contentment in a Covetous World published by Christian Focus (Christ the Center 276). She is on staff in women’s ministry at Uptown Church (PCA) in Charlotte, NC, a mom to three kids and the wife of Dr. Michael Kruger, President and Professor of NT at Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte. Nancy Guthrie is the author of The Son of David, The Promised One, and The Wisdom of God, on the topic of seeing Christ in the Old Testament. Nancy is a member of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, and she speaks at conferences worldwide.

Participants: Barbara Duguid, Camden Bucey, Melissa Kruger, Nancy Guthrie

Communicating Reformed Theology through Hip Hop

Fri, 27 Sep 2013 05:00:09 -0400

For Christ the Center’s 300th episode, we welcome hip hop artist Timothy Brindle to speak about his work in Christian hip hop and the recent musical movement as a whole. The episode explores hip hop’s stylistic capability to communicate the gospel and reformed theology and includes clips from Timothy’s recordings. Timothy is a student at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, and his record label is Lamp Mode Recordings. Download “The Daily Gospel” by Timothy Brindle for free. The first 300 episodes of Christ the Center are available for download as a 7.3GB .zip file. We may not be able to maintain this link into perpetuity. Download the file while the link still lives.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nick Batzig, Timothy Brindle

Jesus on Every Page

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 05:00:19 -0400

David Murray speaks about seeing Christ in the Old Testament based on his book Jesus on Every Page: 10 Simple Ways to Seek and Find Christ in the Old Testament. Dr. Murray’s book is an accessible presentation of Christ-centered reading of “the Law and Prophets.” The interview explores the New Testament foundations for this approach to the Old Testament, challenges an implicitly dispensational view of the Old Testament, and responds to common challenges to this approach.

Dr. David Murray is Professor of Old Testament and Practical Theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. He is a pastor in the Free Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, MI. He also blogs at Head Heart Hand. He has previously spoken on Christ the Center regarding “Technology and the Christian Life.”

Links:

http://jesusoneverypage.com

http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2013/june/ popularity-pitfalls-and-practice-of-christ-centered-interpr.html

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Murray, Jared Oliphint, Nick Batzig

Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and Liberty

Fri, 13 Sep 2013 05:00:31 -0400

Brett McCracken speaks about his book Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and Liberty. The book and today’s discussion address how Christians should relate to culture – food, drink, music, movies.

Brett McCracken is a Los Angeles-based writer and journalist. He is the author of Hipster Christianity: When Church & Cool Collide (Baker, 2010) and has written for The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, CNN.com, The Princeton Theological Review, Mediascape, Books & Culture, Christianity Today, Relevant, IMAGE Journal, Q Ideas, and Conversantlife.com. He speaks and lectures frequently at universities, churches, and conferences.

A graduate of Wheaton College and UCLA (M.A. in Cinema & Media Studies), Brett currently works as managing editor for Biola University’s Biola Magazine and is pursuing a Master’s in Theology at Talbot School of Theology.

Links from the episode: Brett McCracken’s blog, Related Washington Post article, Book trailer

Participants: Brett McCracken, Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint

Housewife Theologian

Fri, 06 Sep 2013 05:00:34 -0400

Aimee Byrd speaks about her new book, Housewife Theologian: How the Gospel Interrupts the Ordinary, with panel Camden Bucey, Nancy Guthrie, and Melissa Kruger. The topic of her book and of this episode’s discussion is the gospel’s particular applications to the lives of women, women’s role in the family and in the church, and the relevance of theology to mundane and ordinary parts of life. Housewife Theologian is published by P&R.

Aimee Byrd blogs at Housewife Theology. She’s also a member of Pilgrim Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Martinsburg, WV where she teaches women’s bible study. And she’s just been announced as a regular contributor to the Mortification of Spin podcast with Carl Trueman and Todd Pruitt.

Nancy Guthrie is the author of numerous books and bible study curriculum (including video series) on seeing Christ in the Old Testament. Her latest is The Son of David: Seeing Jesus in the Historical Books. Nancy has joined us for several episodes of Christ the Center (CTC183, CTC224, CTC295).

Melissa Kruger is the author of The Envy of Eve published by Christian Focus, which she spoke about on Christ the Center episode 276. She’s also on staff in women’s ministry at Uptown Church (PCA) in Charlotte, NC, a mom to three kids and wife of Dr. Michael Kruger, President and Professor of NT at Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte.

Participants: Aimee Byrd, Camden Bucey, Melissa Kruger, Nancy Guthrie

Seeing Jesus in Old Testament History

Fri, 30 Aug 2013 05:00:38 -0400

This week, Nancy Guthrie speaks about seeing Jesus in the historical books of the Old Testament. Her book The Son of David, third in her series Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament, explains how each part of the story of Old Testament history – the leader Joshua, the judges of Israel, the redeemer Boaz, and Israel’s many kings – reveals and signifies the Christ who was to come.

Nancy Guthrie’s website is http://www.nancyguthrie.com/. Nancy has spoken on Christ the Center about the first two books in this series, The Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis, and The Wisdom of God: Seeing Jesus in the Psalms and Wisdom Books.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nancy Guthrie, Nick Batzig

The Aseity of the Son

Fri, 23 Aug 2013 05:00:14 -0400

Scott Oliphint speaks about the aseity of the Son of God, following up on a review of Brannon Ellis’ book Calvin, Classical Trinitarianism, and the Aseity of the Son. The thesis of the book, which Dr. Oliphint takes up, is that Calvin’s teaching on the Son’s aseity was a way of maintaining orthodoxy but also of advancing and clarifying orthodoxy. The question was, if God the Son is “God of God,” as the Nicene Creed teaches, is he therefore not God of himself? Listen and hear how Calvin answered that question.

Dr. Oliphint’s full-length review of Ellis’ book is in the Spring 2013 issue of the Westminster Theological Journal. For more on the doctrine of God, see Dr. Oliphint’s book God with Us: Divine Condescension and the Attributes of God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Deryck Barson, Jared Oliphint, K. Scott Oliphint

Judges and Redemptive History

Fri, 16 Aug 2013 05:00:33 -0400

The Christ the Center panel discusses the book of Judges, considering its relationship to redemptive history and to the redeemer Jesus Christ. During the “no man’s land” of redemptive history, as Israel awaits the promised king, her people again and again do what is right in their own eyes under the rule of judges who appear morally ambiguous at best. The discussion illustrates how a book that narrates a downward spiral of failure points upward and forward to a great king.

Check out our previous redemptive-historical episode on Ruth and Redemptive History.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

When the Stars Disappear: Why Christians Suffer

Fri, 09 Aug 2013 05:00:00 -0400

Dr. Mark Talbot speaks about his forthcoming book tentatively entitled, When the Stars Disappear: Why Christians Suffer. Dr. Talbot’s research in philosophy, theology, and psychology serve to interpret his personal experiences of suffering and inform his counseling of those who suffer. The discussion covers the definition and purpose of Christian suffering, the human need to understand life as a story, the danger of a prosperity gospel, and the role of Scripture in the Christian life. Ultimately, the Christian’s hope in suffering is in the faithfulness of God, who cannot deny himself (2 Tim. 2:13).

Dr. Talbot is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Wheaton College (IL) where he has taught since 1992. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. His areas of expertise include the intersection of philosophy and theology, philosophy and psychology, the epistemologies of the early modern philosophers, and the works of David Hume, St. Augustine, and Jonathan Edwards. The article mentioned in the interview can be found here. You can also see Dr. Talbot speak about chronic suffering at the 2012 Desiring God Works of God Conference.

Participants: Carlton Wynne, Jared Oliphint, Mark Talbot

A Neglected Grace: Family Worship in the Christian Home

Fri, 02 Aug 2013 05:00:24 -0400

Jason Helopoulos joins us to speak about his book A Neglected Grace: Family Worship in the Christian Home. The discussion covers what family worship is, its elements, and its relationship to private and corporate worship. Pastor Helopoulos also provides practical advice about how to practice family worship especially for those who have neglected it in the past.

Jason is the Assistant Pastor at University Reformed Church in Lansing, Michigan (RCA). He attended Dallas Theological Seminary and completed a Masters of Theology degree (ThM) with a concentration in Historical Theology and Christian Education in 2003. He served on the staff of Park Cities Presbyterian Church as a pastoral intern for one year and then accepted a call as an Assistant Pastor at Meadowview Reformed Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Lexington, North Carolina. In the fall of 2007, Jason was called by Christ Church PCA in Grand Rapids, Michigan to plant a daughter church in Lansing, Michigan. He accepted the call and moved to the field (and snow) as church planter and pastored Providence PCA in East Lansing until 2012. In the summer of 2012, Jason accepted the call as Assistant Pastor of University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan and is currently serving this congregation, for which he feels blessed.

Jason is married to his beautiful bride, Leah. They are blessed with two wonderful children, Gracen and Ethan.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jason Helopoulos, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

Fri, 26 Jul 2013 05:00:51 -0400

Dr. Michael Emlet discusses the recent fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The DSM is the official diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals and published by the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Emlet explains the origin and purpose of the DSM and the questions this new edition raises for Christian believers. He outlines the way Christian counselors and pastors can benefit from the DSM and clarifies the relationship between psychiatric diagnoses and spiritual problems. Click here for the blog post mentioned in the episode.

Michael R. Emlet, M.Div., M.D., practiced as a family physician for twelve years before becoming a counselor and faculty member at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). He is a Lecturer in Practical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia). He has written numerous published articles and is the author of several CCEF booklets including Asperger Syndrome, Angry Children: Understanding and Helping Your Child Regain Control, Help for the Caregiver: Facing the Challenges with Understanding and Strength, and OCD: Freedom for the Obsessive Compulsive; as well as a book, Crosstalk: Where Life and Scripture Meet published by New Growth Press.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Michael Emlet, Nick Batzig

Ruth and Redemptive History

Fri, 19 Jul 2013 05:00:44 -0400

Today we discuss the story and message of the book of Ruth in light of the book’s place in redemptive history. This brief story of an unassuming young Gentile woman develops the important biblical themes of the promised land, the inclusion of Gentiles in redemption, and the line of the seed of the woman. In these ways and others, the book of Ruth is a story of redemption, redemption which culminates in Ruth’s descendant, Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

Covenantal Apologetics

Fri, 12 Jul 2013 05:00:24 -0400

Dr. Scott Oliphint returns to Christ the Center to discuss his recent book, Covenantal Apologetics. Oliphint’s forthcoming book is an accessible treatment of Van Tilian presuppositional apologetics, the fruit of years of teaching apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. We discuss with Dr. Oliphint the significance of the book’s title, namely, that the covenantal theology of the Reformed confessions underlies a covenantal apologetic approach. Oliphint explains the “quicksand quotient,” the role of common grace in apologetics, and discusses the motivation behind the example apologetic conversations found in the book.

Other Books on Apologetics

This selection is taken from our suggested reading list. For more information on how to use this list as well as books in other disciplines, please look at our list.
Level 1

Machen, J. Gresham. Christianity and Liberalism. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2009.
Oliphint, K. Scott. The Battle Belongs to the Lord. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 2003.
Pratt, Richard. Every Thought Captive: A Study Manual for the Defense of Christian Truth. Phillipsburg N.J.: Presbyterian and Reformed Pub. Co., 1979.
Bahnsen, Greg L. Always Ready: Directions for Defending the Faith. Covenant Media Press, 1996.

Level 2

Van Til, Cornelius and Greg L. Bahnsen, ed. Van Til’s Apologetic: Readings and Analysis. P&R Publishing, 1998.
Van Til, Cornelius with annotations by K. Scott Oliphint. The Defense of the Faith. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 2008.
Oliphint, K. Scott, and Lane G. Tipton, (eds.) Revelation and Reason. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 2007.
Bahnsen, Greg. Presuppositional Apologetics: Stated and Defended. Powder Springs Ga.; Nacogdoches Tex.: American Vision Inc.; Covenant Media Press, 2008.

Level 3

Oliphint, K. Scott. Reasons for Faith: Philosophy in the Service of Theology. Phillipsburg, N. J.: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 2006.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, K. Scott Oliphint

The Nature and Use of Apologetic Evidences

Fri, 05 Jul 2013 05:00:31 -0400

Reformed theologians have approached the discipline of apologetics from several different vantage points. Proponents of presuppositional, classical, and evidential approaches differ with one another on several important apologetic questions. One primary subject is the nature and proper use of evidences. Should the apologist use historical arguments for the creation, the truthfulness of Scriptures, the resurrection? If so, what role do those evidences play in an apologetic exchange?

Dr. Scott Oliphint recently spoke about apologetics on the Unbelievable? program with Justin Brierley to dialogue with Kurt Jaros about apologetic methodology. The conversation touched upon several different apologetic topics, but perhaps the most interesting exchange focused on the use of evidences. It is often assumed that Van Tilian presuppositional apologists eschew the use of evidences. On this episode of Christ the Center, the panel addresses this common assumption. They demonstrate how a covenantal approach to apologetics not only allows the apologist to use evidence, but also provides the only proper context in which they may be used.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy

The Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood

Fri, 28 Jun 2013 05:00:14 -0400

In this episode, Jared Oliphint speaks with Owen Strachan, the Executive Director for the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. The council exists, “to set forth the teachings of the Bible about the complementary differences between men and women, created equally in the image of God, because these teachings are essential for obedience to Scripture and for the health of the family and the church.” Listen to this excellent conversation of the work of this important organization.

Participants: Jared Oliphint, Owen Strachan

Preparing for Seminary

Fri, 21 Jun 2013 05:00:07 -0400

On today’s episode we talk about what kind of preparation is helpful for someone thinking about seminary; which college majors are most helpful, what kind of readings lists should someone be looking at, what to look for in professors, and the level of involvement in the local church. Preparing for seminary is preparing for a lifetime of learning.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington

Vatican II Inclusivism

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 05:00:27 -0400

How can Catholic theologians seemingly contradict the official teaching of the Catholic Church? Many commentators believe that, in a recent homily, Pope Francis did just that. While the Vatican has since “clarified” his remarks, the question remains for many other Catholic theologians, who seem to promote doctrinal views in sharp contrast to previous declarations of the Catholic Church. Many Catholics now affirm a view of salvation that is “inclusive,” that is, broad enough to include not only explicit Catholics, but also Muslims, Jews, agnostics, and atheists. Many critics cry foul, since this appears to be a blatant contradiction of traditional Catholic teaching.

In this episode, Camden Bucey leads a discussion that touches upon the changes in prolegomena that allow many Catholic theologians to affirm the church’s historic pronouncements while leaving room for new doctrinal formulations such as this contemporary inclusivism. The grand project of Vatican II was to update the Catholic church for a modern age, to open the windows and let in fresh air. To accomplish this overhaul, many theologians resorted to a Kantian-esque view of revelation and history. Listen as the panel discusses the workings of this type of “both-and” theologizing.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Nick Batzig

Typology and Jehoiachin

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 05:00:07 -0400

We welcome Matthew Patton to the program to speak about the nature and use of typology using Jehoiachin as an extended example. Mr. Patton is Visiting Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Wheaton College and a PhD candidate in Old Testament at the Wheaton Graduate School. This Mr. Patton’s second time visiting Christ the Center, having spoken with us previously about restoration prophecy in Ezra-Nehemiah.

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Matthew Patton, Nick Batzig

The Early Text of the New Testament

Fri, 31 May 2013 05:00:34 -0400

Today we welcome Dr. Michael J. Kruger to speak about New Testament textual criticism and the early text of the New Testament. Dr. Kruger has co-edited an excellent book with Dr. Charles E. Hill, titled The Early Text of the New Testament and published by Oxford University Press.

The book aims to examine and assess from our earliest extant sources the most primitive state of the New Testament text now known. What sort of changes did scribes make to the text? What is the quality of the text now at our disposal? What can we learn about the nature of textual transmission in the earliest centuries? In addition to exploring the textual and scribal culture of early Christianity, this volume explores the textual evidence for all the sections of the New Testament. It also examines the evidence from the earliest translations of New Testament writings and the citations or allusions to New Testament texts in other early Christian writers.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Michael Kruger, Nick Batzig

Covenant Solidarity

Fri, 24 May 2013 05:00:33 -0400

Chris Brauns visits Christ the Center to speak about covenant solidarity through his book Bound Together: How We Are Tied to Others in Good and Bad Choices published by Zondervan. Chris is the pastor of The Red Brick Church in Stillman Valley, Illinois and has also written Unpacking Forgiveness: Biblical Answers for Complex Questions and Deep Wounds, an excellent treatment and call to return to a biblical conception of forgiveness.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Brauns, David Filson

The Polemical Theology of the Old Testament

Fri, 17 May 2013 05:00:30 -0400

Scholars disagree on the relationship between portions of the Old Testament and similar ancient Near Eastern accounts. Many believe Moses simply plagiarized material from existing literature. In this episode, we welcome Dr. John Currid to speak about his book Against the Gods: The Polemical Theology of the Old Testament. In this book, Dr. Currid questions the higher critical trend by highlighting the highly polemical nature of Moses’ writings. From the Genesis creation account to the story of Israel’s exodus from Egypt, Currid shows how the biblical author’s continually emphasized the futility of paganism in contrast with the unparalleled worldview of the Hebrews.

Dr. Currid is the Carl MacMurray Professor of Old Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary, Charlotte. Prior to coming to RTS, he served as Associate Professor of Religion at Grove City College, as Byington Hebrew Teaching Fellow at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and as a member of the faculty at Jerusalem Center for Biblical Studies in Jerusalem, Israel. Dr. Currid serves as Project Director of Bethsaida Excavations Project in Israel (1995-present). He lectures and preaches in many countries including Russia, Ukraine, Great Britain, Australia, and Brazil.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, John Currid

Jonathan Edwards on Adam Before the Fall

Fri, 10 May 2013 05:00:54 -0400

The Christ the Center panel gather for an informal discussion about Jonathan Edwards and his treatment of the question of how Adam, who was created in righteousness and holiness and knowledge could ever fall into sin. Historically this has been a problematic issue and proves to be a challenge even to Edwards. Jeff Waddington has written a dissertation on Edwards’ anthropology as it pertains to apologetics, and one of the chapters deals specifically with this matter. Listen as we discuss this difficult issue.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jeff Waddington

Approaches to Christology

Fri, 03 May 2013 05:00:39 -0400

Christology is at the heart of the gospel for it is the study of the God-man, the savior of sinners. In this episode, Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey speak about several fundamental doctrines of Christology and uncover a number of different approaches to its questions. As they describe formulations of theologians such as Karl Barth and Karl Rahner, Jim and Camden expose how alterations to the basic doctrines of Christology have drastic implications for soteriology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

Aspects of Presbyterian Government

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 05:00:22 -0400

For this in-house episode, we speak about different aspects of presbyterian government. While church polity may seem like a tedious and perhaps arbitrary task, Scripture lays out a structure for how Christ chooses to rule his church in the present age. Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, and Jeff Waddington speak about offices in the church and key features of presbyterianism such as plurality, parity, and connectedness in light of several key biblical texts.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

What Every Christian Needs to Know About the Qur’an

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 05:00:36 -0400

Today we welcome Dr. James R. White to the program to speak about his book What Every Christian Needs to Know About the Qur’an. In the book, Dr. White presents Islamic beliefs about Christ, salvation, the Trinity, the afterlife, and other important topics. White shows how the sacred text of Islam differs from the teachings of the Bible in order to help Christians engage in open, honest discussions with Muslims.

Dr. White is the Director of Alpha & Omega Ministries and is an active apologist and debater. He is the author of several books, including The Forgotten Trinity and The Potter’s Freedom.

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, James White, Jim Cassidy

The Envy of Eve: Finding Contentment in a Covetous World

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 05:00:48 -0400

Today we welcome Melissa Kruger to the program to speak about her book The Envy of Eve: Finding Contentment in a Covetous World published by Christian Focus. Melissa is on staff in women’s ministry at Uptown Church (PCA) in Charlotte, NC, a mom to three kids and the wife of Dr. Michael Kruger, President and Professor of NT at Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Melissa Kruger

Bavinck on Marriage and the Family

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 05:00:28 -0400

Nelson Kloosterman speaks about Herman Bavinck’s theology of marriage and the family. Kloosterman recently translated Bavinck’s book The Christian Family. Though he wrote in early 20th century Netherlands, Bavinck’s book is relevant for the present day. In distinction from so many contemporary works, Bavinck establishes a theology of marriage and the family that can be applied to the manifold challenges facing families in the present day. Dr. Kloosterman is Executive Director of Worldview Resources, International and works as a translator of important theological works. Listen as he unfolds Bavinck’s doctrine of sin and redemptive-historical focus as they pertain to God’s design for the family and society as a whole.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Nelson Kloosterman

The Plan of Salvation

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 05:00:59 -0400

Rev. Dr. Lane Tipton walks us through the soteriological taxonomy offered by B.B. Warfield in his book The Plan of Salvation. In the book, Warfield asks a series of questions designed to distinguish biblically-consistent Christianity from other accounts of salvation. Who saves? How? And on what basis? As Dr. Tipton rehearses and adds to Warfield’s argument, we come to see how Calvinism is distinguished from paganism, Catholicism, Lutheranism, and all forms of Arminianism. Dr. Tipton is Associate Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Francis Schaeffer’s Christian Spirituality

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 05:00:37 -0400

We welcome William Edgar, Professor of Apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA, to the program to reflect upon Francis Schaeffer’s life and thought. Dr. Edgar focuses on Schaeffer’s Christian spirituality in Schaeffer on the Christian Life: Countercultural Spirituality, a unique and welcome addition to the literature on Schaeffer. Having spent time with Schaeffer at L’Abri in Switzerland and having been deeply influenced by Schaeffer’s ministry, Dr. Edgar’s book brings a warm tone to a rich and insightful treatment of the Christian life.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy, William Edgar

Regeneration in John 3

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 05:16:09 -0400

On the heels of our previous discussion with Rev. Dr. Scott Wright, the panel discusses the doctrine of regeneration by looking to Jesus’ teaching in John 3. Adam York, Deryck Barson, and Camden Bucey look at features of regeneration pertaining to both the accomplishment and the application of redemption. Through the lenses of God’s typological son, the nation of Israel, and the eschatological son, Jesus Christ, the panel situates God’s regenerating work within his overall plan of salvation.

Participants: Adam York, Camden Bucey, Deryck Barson

Family-Integrated Churches

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 05:00:46 -0400

On this episode, we welcome Dr. Sam Waldron to speak about the family-integrated church movement, which seeks to recover a biblical understanding of the family, especially in its relationship to the local church. You can read more about the movement from The National Center for Family-Integrated Churches. Dr. Waldron explains several features of the movement, critically examining several strengths and shortcomings in light of Scripture. He has written on the subject before. Dr. Waldron is Academic Dean and Professor of Systematic Theology at the Midwest Center for Theological Studies. He is also one of the pastors of Grace Reformed Baptist Church in Owensboro, KY. Dr. Waldron received a B.A. from Cornerstone University, an M.Div. from Trinity Ministerial Academy, a Th.M. from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. From 1977 to 2001 he was a pastor of the Reformed Baptist Church of Grand Rapids, MI. Dr. Waldron is the author of numerous books including A Modern Exposition of the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith, The End Times Made Simple, Baptist Roots in America, To Be Continued?, and MacArthur’s Millennial Manifesto: A Friendly Response.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig, Sam Waldron

Calvin’s Company of Pastors

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 05:00:03 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Dr. Scott Manetsch to the program to speak about Reformed pastoral ministry and his book Calvin’s Company of Pastors: Pastoral Care and the Emerging Reformed Church, 1536-1609, which is published by Oxford University Press. Dr. Manetsch is Professor of Church History at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and his scholarly expertise is in the area of late medieval and Reformation history, with particular interest in Calvin and French Protestantism, Theodore Beza, sixteenth-century Geneva, church discipline, and pastoral ministry in the Reformation era. Listen to this fascinating discussion of pastoral life in late 16th and early 17th century Geneva.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Jim Cassidy, Scott Manetsch

Johannes Oecolampadius

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 05:00:39 -0400

Dr. Diane Poythress joins us to speak about the important reformer of Basel, Johannes Oecolampadius. Though Oecolampadius’ influence was extraordinary, many English-speaking historians and theologians are not familiar with his life and work. Dr. Poythress introduces us to Oecolampadius and his great significance for the present day. Dr. Poythress’ dissertation, “Johannes Oecolampadius’ Exposition of Isaiah, Chapters 36-37,” is one of the only lengthy treatments of Oecolampadius in English. She has also written an excellent book on him titled, Reformer of Basel: The Life, Thought, and Influence of Johannes Oecolampadius, published by Reformation Heritage Books.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Diane Poythress, Jason Pickard

Regeneration and Redemptive-History

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 12:51:47 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center, Rev. Dr. Scott R. Wright develops a redemptive-historical understanding of the doctrine of regeneration. Rev. Wright is senior pastor of Redeemer Church (PCA) in Hudson, Ohio. His dissertation, “Regeneration and Redemptive History,” is a thoroughgoing treatment of regeneration in the tradition of Geerhardus Vos. Often, regeneration is treated statically, without reference to biblical eschatology and the categories of historia and ordo salutis. This can lead to serious problems in systematic theology, such as positing essentially different modes of salvation between the testaments. Wright reorients the discussion along biblical categories and brings a fresh approach to the study of this important Reformed doctrine.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Jim Cassidy, Scott R. Wright

The Reorganization of Princeton Seminary

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 05:00:25 -0400

The reorganization of Princeton Theological Seminary was a key event in the American Presbyterian modernist-fundamentalist controversy of the early 20th century. The seminary was governed by a board of directors, who oversaw the academic aspects of the seminary, and a separate board of trustees who oversaw the remaining aspects of the organization. Seeking to resolve the growing tension between factions within the seminary, the General Assembly moved to reorganize the seminary in a fashion that was understood as shifting the majority of governing power in favor of the modernist agenda. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Darryl G. Hart back to the program to speak about this event and its significance for American Presbyterianism. Dr. Hart’s article on the subject, “The Reorganization of Princeton Theological Seminary and the Exhaustion of American Presbyterianism” is published in The Confessional Presbyterian Journal Vol. 8, 2012. Hart has also authored, co-authored, or edited several books on this era of church history including Seeking a Better Country: 300 Years of American Presbyterianism, Defending the Faith: J. Gresham Machen and the Crisis of Conservative Protestantism in Modern America, and The Selected Shorter Writings of J. Gresham Machen. Dr. Hart is Visiting Assistant Professor of History at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Jason Pickard

Old Princeton and Right Reason

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 05:00:32 -0400

Dr. Paul Kjoss Helseth, Professor of Christian Thought at Northwestern College in St. Paul, Minnesota, joins the panel at Christ the Center to speak about Old Princeton and right reason. Many in the Reformed tradition have criticized Old Princeton theologians such as Charles Hodge and B. B. Warfield for explicating a view of human reason that is not in accord with traditional Reformed doctrines, such as a Reformed understanding of the noetic effects of sin. Dr. Helseth seeks to remedy this common assessment by situating Old Princeton’s treatment of human reason within their doctrine of regeneration.

Related Publications by Dr. Helseth

Right Reason and the Princeton Mind: An Unorthodox Proposal. Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R Publishing, 2010.
“‘Right Reason’ & the Science of Theology at Old Princeton Seminary,” in The Confessional Presbyterian, Volume 8, 2012.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jared Oliphint, Paul K. Helseth

Harmonizing the Gospels

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 05:00:06 -0400

Dr. Vern Poythress speaks about the important topic of harmonizing the gospels by sharing with us features of his book Inerrancy and the Gospels: A God-Centered Approach to the Challenges of Harmonization. Answering the challenges of critics, Dr. Poythress argues for the uncompromisingly foundational role of Scripture and a proper attitude as we come to approach it. He provides several useful principles for the task of harmonization and walks the reader through a number of examples in order to demonstrate his God-centered approach. Dr. Poythress is Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig, Vern Poythress

Reasons for Faith

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 05:00:01 -0400

K. Scott Oliphint, Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, speaks about the relationship of philosophy to theology. Dr. Oliphint has written Reasons for Faith: Philosophy in the Service of Theology, and he takes us through a number of important sections in his book.

Insider Movements

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 05:00:14 -0400

We welcome David Garner and Phil DeHart to speak about Insider Movements, which are increasingly popular approaches to missions predicated on controversial theological and hermeneutic foundations. Insider Movements have gained particular influence in mission fields and religio-sociological contexts that are particularly hostile to Christianity. Dr. Garner is Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary at Pastor of Teaching at Proclamation Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Bryn Mawr, PA. Dr. Garner has written “High Stakes: Insider Movement Hermeneutics and the Gospel,” an excellent essay on the subject. Phil DeHart has worked in the missions field in Asia and is currently a student at Westminster Theological Seminary. Dr. Garner has also coordinated with the producers of the film Half Devil, Half Child, a documentary on Insider Movements, to offer a special discount to Reformed Forum listeners. Just visit halfdevilhalfchild.com to purchase the digital download, and use the code “reform” to receive 25% off the download price of the film. Episode image by terbeck.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Garner, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig, Phil DeHart

Highlights from 2012

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 05:00:00 -0400

We begin the New Year with a look at some of our best clips from 2012. Listen to the full episodes of the clips we’ve chosen to include by using the following links:

Participants: A. Craig Troxel, Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Danny Hyde, David Garner, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, John Muether, K. Scott Oliphint, Michael Kruger, Neil Tolsma, Richard B. Gaffin Jr., W. Andrew Hoffecker

The Trinitarian Controversy in Early Modern England

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 05:00:43 -0400

Dr. Paul Lim, Associate Professor of the History of Christianity, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, and Affiliate Professor of History at Vanderbilt University, speaks about his book Mystery Unveiled: The Crisis of the Trinity in Early Modern England. The book is published by Oxford University Press and features two related issues. In a historically sensitive way, Dr. Lim deals with the role of mystery in dealing with the nature of who God is (ie, Trinitarian) and the nature of the doctrine of sola Scriptura. The historical context is the 1500s-late 1600s in England and Lim concentrates on the rise of Socianism and the debates between anti-trinitarians (Paul Best and John Biddle) and trinitarians (Francis Cheynell and John Owen). Related to this discussion is concern for church councils and the powers of bishops and the influence of Platonic philosophy.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, Paul Lim

Proclaiming Christ

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 05:00:20 -0400

Mark Winder and Adam York introduce Proclaiming Christ, a newly reformatted program on preaching, exegesis, and biblical theology. Rev. Winder is pastor of Wolf River Presbyterian Church in Collierville, Tennessee and Rev. York is pastor of Providence Presbyterian Church in Kingwood, Texas. Through this program, we seek to benefit the church by offering rich discussions directly about biblical texts. Join us as we speak about this exciting new program.

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

The Life and Ministry of B.B. Warfield

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 05:00:15 -0400

In this episode, Jim Cassidy and Mark Winder catch up with John Muether to talk about his forthcoming book on the life of B.B. Warfield, the great old Princeton theologian. We cover various topics including the lion of Princeton’s take on evolution, his care for his wife, his doctrine of Scripture, and his position on the Confession of 1902. We wrap up with drawing practical lessons from his life we can apply today.

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

Ministerial Fellowship

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 05:00:00 -0400

On this episode, Rev. David Brack speaks about ministerial fellowship and a ministry of discipleship in the local church. Rev. Brack is pastor of Christ Covenant Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Amarillo, TX. By God’s grace, David has had many years of fruitful service in Amarillo. Through the faithful service of many people, Christ Covenant has become a center of ministerial fellowship and discipleship. Listen to Rev. Brack discuss this special ministry and recount portions of its history.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Brack, Jonathan Brack

Justification Sola Fide

Fri, 30 Nov 2012 05:00:28 -0400

We are pleased to welcome back to the program Dr. Lane G. Tipton, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Tipton was recently inaugurated to the Charles Krahe Chair of Systematic Theology and delivered an inaugural address titled, “Biblical Theology and the Westminster Standards Revisited: Union with Christ and Justification Sola Fide.” As he walks us through his inaugural lecture, Dr. Tipton addresses the relationship of justification to faith and union with Christ and then turns to interact with the distinction Louis Berkhof made between objective and subjective or active and passive justification. In short, Tipton demonstrates that union with Christ by faith is also antecedent to the declaration of righteousness, which is based on the imputed righteousness of Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

An Interview with Desiring God

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 05:00:10 -0400

At a recent trip to Milwaukee for the annual meeting of the Evangelical Theological Society, Camden Bucey and Jared Oliphint caught up with David Mathis and Jonathan Parnell of Desiring God Ministries. They spoke about a number of issues related to Desiring God’s ministry, including new media and finding theological heroes.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Mathis, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Parnell

Anthony Burgess on the Law

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 05:00:23 -0400

We welcome Rev. Dr. Steve Casselli to speak about Anthony Burgess on the law. Rev. Casselli is pastor of Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church in Tampa, FL. Steve worked in campus ministry at the University of Michigan and served as pastoral intern at Park Cities Presbyterian, Dallas, Texas and Bucks Central Presbyterian in Pennsylvania. Rev. Casselli graduated from Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia with a PhD in 2007. His dissertation, titled Anthony Burgess’ “Vindiciae Legis” and the “Fable of Unprofitable Scholasticism:” A case study in the reappraisal of seventeenth century Reformed Scholasticism, is planned to be published by Reformation Heritage Books.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Mark Jones, Steve Casselli

God’s Love Throughout the Biblical Story

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 05:00:23 -0400

Neil Tolsma speaks about the unfolding of God’s love through history on this episode of Christ the Center. Rev. Tolsma is a retired minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church who served congregations in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin. In this discussion, we explore the great riches of divine love as Rev. Tolsma has described it in his book This is Love: Tracing the Love of God Throughout the Biblical Story. Though there are many books on the subject of God’s love, this book distinguishes itself through its deep biblical-theological and pastoral foundations, while remaining accessible to a wide variety of readers.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Neil Tolsma, Nick Batzig

Natural Law and the Two Kingdoms in Dutch Theology

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 05:00:37 -0400

Dr. Nelson Kloosterman returns to Christ the Center to speak about natural law and two kingdom theology in early 21st century Dutch thought. Dr. Kloosterman is Executive Director of Worldview Resources International, while he also labors in translating great Dutch theological works into English.

In this discussion, Dr. Kloosterman speaks about his arguments found in Kingdoms Apart, edited by Ryan C. McIlhenny and published by P&R Publishing. Dr. Kloosterman’s essay, “Natural Law and the Two Kingdoms in the Thought of Herman Bavinck” seeks to explain Bavinck’s position in light of recent criticisms. In addition, Kloosterman speaks about his translations of two articles on the two kingdoms by S. G. de Graaf, an important early 21st c. Dutch theologian.

Listeners may also be interested to hear Dr. Kloosterman speak about many different related subjects in our Christ and Culture series.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nelson Kloosterman

Eschatology and the Christian Life

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 05:00:21 -0400

Eschatology is a complicated word. Usually, it is associated with apocalyptic events yet to occur in the Middle East. In this episode, we seek to broaden this limited conception of eschatology to include even the present applicability of Christ’s death and resurrection and the inevitable destination of his bride, the Church. Christians have a living hope (1 Peter 1:3) through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, a hope that has a bearing even on the Christian’s present life circumstances.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Transfiguration

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 05:00:46 -0400

In this episode, we study the Transfiguration, the event in which Jesus was transformed on the mountain before Peter, James, and John. In the Transfiguration, Moses and Elijah accompany Jesus as a great cloud appeared and the Father declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.”

As we look into the accounts of the event in the synoptic gospels (Matthew 17:1-13; Mark 9:2-13; Luke 9:28-36), we explore the Old Testament context out of which the Transfiguration develops and the consummation to which it points. In short, the Transfiguration is a proleptic revelation of Christ’s consummate resurrection glory.

Matthew 17:1-13 says,

And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking when, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces and were terrified. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of Man is raised from the dead.” And the disciples asked him, “Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” He answered, “Elijah does come, and he will restore all things. But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man will certainly suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist. (Matthew 17:1-13, English Standard Version)

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

The Headship of Christ

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 05:00:01 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the privilege of discoursing with the Rev. Dr. Craig Troxel about ecclesiology, especially as it is grounded in the headship of the Lord Jesus Christ. Rev. Troxel is pastor of Bethel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Wheaton, IL. The discussion focused on the threefold office of Christ (munus triplex Christi) as prophet, priest, and king and how that connects with the doctrine, worship, and government of the church. The group also considered the relationship of the church to the kingdom of God and the church and mission.

English Puritan Theology

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 05:00:13 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Rev. Dr. Mark Jones to the program to speak about puritan theology. With Joel Beeke, Mark has co-authored an exciting new book from Reformed Heritage Books titled A Puritan Theology: Doctrine for Life. Mark is the minister of Faith Presbyterian Church, a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), in Vancouver, British Columbia. He is also Research Associate in the Faculty of Theology at University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa. Mark’s Ph.D. is from Leiden Universiteit (Oct. 2009) and his doctoral dissertation was entitled, “Why Heaven Kissed Earth: The Christology of the Puritan Reformed Orthodox theologian, Thomas Goodwin (1600–1680).” Join us for a stimulating discussion regarding several features of English Puritan theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy, Mark Jones, Nick Batzig

Creeds and Confessions in the Contemporary Church

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 05:00:14 -0400

On this episode, we welcome Rev. Dr. Carl R. Trueman to discuss the important role of creeds and confessions in the church through his book The Creedal Imperative. Dr. Trueman is the Paul Woolley Professor of Historical Theology and Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary and Pastor of Cornerstone Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Ambler, PA. Dr. Trueman brings his critical thought and historic sensitivity to this important plea to many conservative evangelicals.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Jared Oliphint

Dynamics of Church Planting

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 05:00:54 -0400

Church planting is one way the Lord expands his kingdom on earth. Christ called his disciples to go forth and make disciples of men, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Faithful discipleship is connected with the local church. That point has been debated in and of itself, but the proper means of church planting has been a much more contentious subject.

In this episode, Andrew Moody and Eric Watkins work through several dynamics of church planting. Rev. Moody serves as Evangelist at San Antonio Reformed Church in San Antonio, Texas, and Rev. Watkins is Pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church in St. Augustine, Florida. Both Eric and Andrew bring experience to this interesting discussion on planting Reformed churches.

Participants: Andrew Moody, Camden Bucey, Eric Watkins, Jim Cassidy

John Flavel and Union with Christ

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 05:00:43 -0400

Rev. William R. Edwards speaks about John Flavel and union with Christ. Edwards has written an article titled “John Flavel on the Priority of Union with Christ: Further Historical Perspective on the Structure of Reformed Soteriology” in Volume 74 (2012) of the Westminster Theological Journal. In the article, Edwards demonstrates several interesting 17th c. formulations of the doctrine of union with Christ. In doing so, Edwards brings his findings into present discussion on the subject.

Rev. Edwards graduated from Westminster Theological Seminary in 1999 and went into Reformed University Fellowship where he became the campus minister of University of Georgia. Rev. Edwards is church planter at Mercy Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Forest, Virginia, which is just outside of Lynchburg.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, William R. Edwards

The Eternal Generation of the Son

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:00:26 -0400

On this episode, we discuss the eternal generation of the Son of God within the context of Trinitarian theology and church history. The subject of the Son’s relationship to the Father is no less important today than it was during the Council of Nicea in 325. Nonetheless, several evangelical scholars have rejected the doctrine. Listen as we discuss what the doctrine means, its importance, and the theological consequences for rejecting it.

Nature/Grace Dualism

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 04:00:54 -0400

Dr. Lane G. Tipton, Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, addresses the Roman Catholic teaching of nature/grace dualism and a variety of its uses. Nature/grace dualism undergirds much of how the Catholic church thinks through issues of anthropology, epistemology, and even cultural engagement. Listen to this insightful interview that touches upon theological methodology, apologetics, and even generic two-kingdom theology.

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

Dualities in Epistemology, Eschatology, and Citizenship

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 05:00:02 -0400

It is often helpful to employ distinctions in theological discussions. Other times, entire philosophical systems are based on two ultimate and opposing forces. In this episode, the panel parses through several theological distinctions—seeking to show when they may be considered proper dualities, and where they may move beyond the teaching of Scripture. Listen to this fluid conversation that touches on the antithesis, epistemology, two-age eschatology, and heavenly vs. earthly citizenship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Preaching and Sermon Preparation

Fri, 17 Aug 2012 05:00:23 -0400

We take a break from our regular format to enjoy a relaxed open forum. Nonetheless, the panel quickly focuses on the subject of preaching and sermon preparation. We ask questions such as when do you read commentaries? Should you work with secondary sources from the start or wrestle with the text on your own for a while? Should we have a preference for preaching extemporaneously or using notes or a manuscript? Along with thoughtful give-and-take from the contributors, these questions comprise a fruitful conversation.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The Theology of John Bunyan’s Holy War

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 05:00:05 -0400

The Rev. Dr. Robert McKelvey unfolds the theology of one of John Bunyan’s classic allegories, The Holy War. Rev. McKelvey is Pastor of Westminster Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Windber, PA and has written a book on Bunyan titled Histories That Mansoul and Her Wars Anatomize: The Drama of Redemption in John Bunyan’s Holy War. In unpacking Bunyan’s allegory, McKelvey describes the Lord’s glorious plan of redemption and consummation that unfolds in Scripture.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Robert J. McKelvey

Nature and Scripture

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 05:00:43 -0400

In 1946, the faculty of Westminster Theological Seminary published a symposium on the doctrine of Scipture titled The Infallible Word. Cornelius Van Til’s contribution, an essay titled “Nature and Scripture,” is an important work describing the relationship of general and special revelation. In this episode, Dr. K. Scott Oliphint, Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westminster, expounds on this essay and connects it to contemporary issues in philosophy and theological methodology.

Deuteronomy and Christology in the Gospel of Matthew

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 05:00:30 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Dr. Brandon Crowe to speak about the themes in his book The Obedient Son: Deuteronomy and Christology in the Gospel of Matthew. The book is a published edition of Dr. Crowe’s dissertation written at the University of Edinburgh. It spans several key biblical themes, including sonship, God’s fatherly love, election, and obedience. Dr. Crowe is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary, where he teaches the core course on the gospels.

Participants: Brandon Crowe, Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Nick Batzig

Machen During World War I

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 05:00:50 -0400

The Christ the Center panel met with Dr. Barry Waugh, editor of the recent publication Letters from the Front: J. Gresham Machen’s Correspondence from World War I, about the fascinating topic of Machen’s service as a YMCA secretary near the frontlines of action in France during WWI. Dr. Waugh discussed the content of some of the letters, Machen’s reasons for service, how Machen sought to situate himself in the midst of French culture, his desire to serve as a faithful gospel minister, and the discussion concluded with consideration of some of the legacy of Machen’s wartime service.

Participants: Barry Waugh, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Divine Impassibility

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 05:00:45 -0400

The Christ the Center panel meets with Rev. Dr. James Dolezal to discuss the much maligned doctrine of divine impassibility. Beginning with a look at Westminster Confession of Faith 2.1, that “There is but one only, living, and true God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions…” the panel looks at the biblical basis and importance of understanding, affirming, and developing a proper use of this doctrine that God does not have passions. Often taken to be a denial of, for instance, God’s love, it is shown that the truth is to the contrary. As simple and as pure act, God is love in the fullest sense without fluctuation or change which is the human lot. This discussion offers much food for thought.

Dr. Dolezal is the author of God Without Parts: Divine Simplicity and the Metaphysics of God’s Absoluteness, which he spoke about on Christ the Center episode 185.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington

The Regulative Principle of Worship

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 05:00:22 -0400

Dr. Darryl G. Hart speaks about a key feature to Reformed worship, the regulative principle. Generally speaking, the principle seeks to allow worship to be governed strictly by the Word of God. Dr. Hart is Visiting Professor of History at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, MI and has written several books such as A Secular Faith: Why Christianity Favors the Separation of Church and State and Deconstructing Evangelicalism: Conservative Protestantism in the Age of Billy Graham. He has also co-authored a number of other books with John Muether, including With Reverence and Awe: Returning to the Basics of Reformed Worship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Jeff Waddington

Inerrancy and Worldview

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 05:00:33 -0400

Dr. Vern Poythress, Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Westminster Theological Seminary, speaks about his book Inerrancy and Worldview: Answering Challenges to the Bible (Crossway). In this important book, Dr. Poythress provides a worldview-based defense of inerrancy by demonstrating the influence various worldviews have on views of the Bible.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Vern Poythress

By Good and Necessary Consequence

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 05:00:54 -0400

The Westminster Confession of Faith 1.6 says, “The whole counsel of God concerning all things necessary for his own glory, man’s salvation, faith and life, is either expressly set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture: unto which nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelations of the Spirit, or traditions of men.” In this episode, Ryan McGraw joins us to speak about his book By Good and Necessary Consequence, which addresses the subject of making right deductions from Scripture. This book is published by Reformation Heritage Books as part of their series Explorations in Reformed Confessional Theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig, Ryan McGraw

Did God Really Say?

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 05:00:55 -0400

David B. Garner, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, visits the studio to speak about the doctrine of Scripture. Dr. Garner has edited an excellent collection of essays titled Did God Really Say?: Affirming the Truthfulness and Trustworthiness of Scripture. Many of the contributions for this book were originally lectures delivered at the 2011 PCA General Assembly. Join us for this fascinating discussion on an important subject.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Garner, Jared Oliphint

Writing Christian Fiction

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 05:00:21 -0400

Jeremiah W. Montgomery is the pastor of Resurrection Orthodox Presbyterian Church in State College, Pennsylvania. Rev. Montgomery joins us to speak about writing Christian fiction. Montgomery has written The Dark Faith, which is the first book in The Dark Harvest trilogy and published by P&R Publishing. In light of this book, Montgomery shares his insights into the fantasy genre and its usefulness for the exploration and communication of Christian themes.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jeremiah Montgomery, Jim Cassidy

The Theology and Preaching of Jonathan Edwards

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 05:00:25 -0400

The Christ the Center panel discusses a forthcoming new podcast entitled East of Eden: Discussions in the Biblical and Systematic Theology of Jonathan Edwards, which should appear, Lord willing, this summer. The panel for this podcast will include Rev. Nick Batzig, Rev. David Filson, and Rev. Jeff Waddington, along with an occasional visit from Dr. Craig Biehl. The goal of this new venture is to delve into the sermons as well as the other parts of Edwards’ voluminous literary corpus. Specifically we seek to demonstrate the interrelated nature of Edwards’ biblical and systematic theology, his use of the Puritan plain style sermon form, his development of typology, and his practical application. The CTC panel briefly discusses Edwards’ Trinitarian theology to round out the discussion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

Trinitarian Personality in the Theologies of Barth and Rahner

Fri, 25 May 2012 05:00:26 -0400

In this in-house episode, Camden Bucey leads a discussion on Trinitarian personality in the theologies of Karl Barth and Karl Rahner. Though the theologians approach the subject from different traditions, both theologies converge at several key points. The panel discusses the issues surrounding the traditional immanent/economic distinction and God’s relationship to creation before moving to Cornelius Van Til’s method for navigating common Trinitarian errors.

In addition to the main discussion, the panel begins the episode with a discussion of several new books including the forthcoming Kingdom through Covenant by Peter Gentry and Stephen Wellum.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

Celebrity, Authority, and Authenticity in the Church

Fri, 18 May 2012 05:00:47 -0400

Dr. Carl Trueman joins us once again for an exciting conversation of issues in the contemporary church. Today, we discuss Dr. Trueman’s latest book Fools Rush in Where Monkeys Fear to Tread (P&R Publishing), a collection of essays originally appearing at Reformation21.org. Dr. Trueman leads us in a critical look at at the contemporary church with his characteristic wit and historical sensitivity.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman

Why Baptize Children?

Fri, 11 May 2012 05:00:21 -0400

Rev. Daniel Hyde, pastor of Oceanside United Reformed Church in Oceanside, CA builds a case for paedobaptism. Hyde has written Jesus Loves the Little Children: Why We Baptize Children, an excellent book treating the biblical, theological, and historical aspects of the subject. Join us for this insightful discussion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Hyde, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Speaking about the Gospel

Fri, 04 May 2012 05:00:47 -0400

The gospel has become a hot topic in the evangelical world, and for that all Christians should be thankful. But conversation about the gospel is only fruitful in so far as we understand it biblically. In this episode, Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey discuss the categories Reformed theologians often use to describe the gospel – using Paul’s lesson in 1 Corinthians 15:1-8 as a foundation.

Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me. (1 Corinthians 15:1-8 ESV)

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Gospel and its Implications

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 05:00:20 -0400

Camden Bucey, Jonathan Brack, and Dan Adams speak about the gospel from the steps of the historic Tenth Presbyterian Church. Reformed Forum was delighted to be invited to the annual Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology, which is organized by the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. Sinclair Ferguson, Ligon Duncan, Liam Goligher, Harry Reeder, and Rick Phillips contributed to the important theme The Gospel: What? Why? How?

This year, the Alliance considered the message and the method of the gospel. What makes the gospel a source of such abounding joy? What is the bad news, to which the gospel is the remedy? What is the power with which the gospel brings salvation? How is the cross the very center of the gospel? What was the distinct gospel message that Jesus preached, and how do we preach it today? How do pastors and churches take up the gospel ministry of reconciliation, of which we read in the Bible?

On this episode, the panel spends time discussing many of these questions while exploring the implications of the good news of Jesus Christ for all of life.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Dan Adams, Jonathan Brack

The Word of God and Inerrancy

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 05:00:58 -0400

Gabe Fluhrer joins the panel to speak about inerrancy. The subject continues to be an issue of perennial importance. Gabe has edited a wonderful book on the subject with contributions from many well-recognized scholars and pastors. The contributions are taken from addresses at the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology, organized each year by the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Gabe Fluhrer, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy

Christ in the Old Testament

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 05:00:13 -0400

On this episode we welcome Nancy Guthrie back to the program to speak about Christ in the Old Testament. Nancy has written the latest in her series on the subject titled The Wisdom of God: Seeing Jesus in the Psalms and Wisdom Books, which is the center of our discussion. Nancy is a member of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee, speaks at conferences worldwide, and is currently pursuing graduate studies at Covenant Theological Seminary. Nancy and her husband David have ministered to countless couples who have lost a child, and they continue to provide resources through retreats and Nancy’s autobiographical books on the subject such as Holding Onto Hope: A Pathway Through Suffering to the Heart of God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nancy Guthrie

Baptism, Covenant, and Election

Fri, 06 Apr 2012 04:00:02 -0400

Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. and Lane G. Tipton analyze arguments for credo-baptism and discuss Reformed views of covenant and election. Many Reformed Baptists will be quick to differentiate themselves from dispensationalists. They favor a covenantal hermeneutic that seeks to take into account the redemptive-historical features of Scripture. For this reason, many confessing credo-baptists argue that the Old Covenant administration has yielded several features to the New.

For instance, many Reformed Baptists argue that circumcision, the Old Covenant sign of membership, was given to physical seed, but water baptism, the New Covenant sign of membership, should only be given to spiritual seed. Moreover, the covenant included unregenerate members in its previous administration, but all people know the Lord in the New Covenant. Drs. Gaffin and Tipton analyze these and other arguments for credo-baptism.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Lane G. Tipton, Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

How Jesus Runs the Church

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 05:00:54 -0400

On this program we welcome Guy Prentiss Waters to speak about his book How Jesus Runs the Church. The doctrine of the church is critically important for the Christian life, but often lags behind in received attention. Dr. Waters brings us back to the Scriptural foundation that shows us how Jesus Christ actively reigns in and through his body.

Dr. Waters is Associate Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi. He holds degrees from the University of Pennsylvania (B.A.), Westminster Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and Duke University (Ph.D.). He is ordained in the Presbyterian Church in America and is the author of Justification and the New Perspectives on Paul. Dr. Waters previously visited Christ the Center to speak about N.T. Wright’s doctrine of justification. You may listen to the entire two-part conversation (part 1 and part 2).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Guy Prentiss Waters, Jeff Waddington, Mark A. Winder

Theology and Ministry in Light of Union with Christ

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 05:00:41 -0400

In this episode, we welcome Dr. J. Todd Billings to speak about the doctrine of union with Christ and its implications for all of theology and ministry. Dr. Billings has written a new book on the subject, titled Union with Christ: Reframing Theology and Ministry for the Church, published by Baker.

Dr. J. Todd Billings is Associate Professor of Reformed Theology at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, MI. An ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America, he received his M.Div. from Fuller Seminary and his Th.D. from Harvard. His first book, Calvin, Participation, and the Gift: The Activity of Believers in Union With Christ (Oxford, 2007) won a 2009 Templeton Award for Theological Promise, awarded internationally for the best first books of scholars in theology and religious studies. He is also author of The Word of God for the People of God: An Entryway to the Theological Interpretation of Scripture (Eerdmans, 2010), and Union with Christ: Reframing Theology and Ministry for the Church (Baker Academic, 2011), winner of an “Award of Merit in Theology and Ethics” in the Christianity Today Book Awards, 2012. Dr. Billings has published articles in a variety of journals, including Modern Theology, Harvard Theological Review, Missiology, and International Journal of Systematic Theology, as well as periodicals such as Christianity Today, The Christian Century, and Sojourners. He has lectured at seminaries and universities around the world, and has been awarded grants from the Association of Theological Schools and the Wabash Center for his research.

Participants: Camden Bucey, J. Todd Billings, Jared Oliphint, Nick Batzig

The Law and Redemptive-History

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 05:00:08 -0400

Notwithstanding the diversity of opinion and debate that has surfaced throughout the last century and a half surrounding the nature of the Mosaic Covenant and the Law of God, Reformed theologians have constantly emphasized—with a great measure of uniformity—what has been denominated, the third use of the Law. With almost equal uniformity, myriads of objections continue to be raised when this subject is discussed among Christians today. In this episode, Nick Batzig leads a discussion on the law and unfolding redemptive-history.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The State and Religious Liberty

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 05:00:15 -0400

Today we welcome Dr. David Skeel and James Sweet to speak about recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that impact the church. Hosanna-Tabor Evangelical Lutheran Church and School v. EEOC was a recent case that raised several important questions. Oyez.org asks, “Does the ministerial exception, which prohibits most employment-related lawsuits against religious organizations by employees performing religious functions, apply to a teacher at a religious elementary school who teaches the full secular curriculum, but also teaches daily religion classes, is a commissioned minister, and regularly leads students in prayer and worship?” Our guests discuss the decision and explain its significance for Christians.

David Skeel is the S. Samuel Arsht Professor of Corporate Law at the University of Pennsylvania and an elder at Tenth Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Philadelphia. He has written an op-ed on the case for the Wall Street Journal. James Sweet is counsel and Director of Special Projects for Westminster Theological Seminary and former chairman of Drinker, Biddle, and Reath.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Skeel, James Sweet

Debates in 17th Century British Puritanism

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 05:00:49 -0400

Rev. Dr. Mark Jones joins us to speak about diversity and debates within Puritanism. A healthy view of polemics has fallen on hard times, and Dr. Jones reminds us of several fruitful discussions over several issues related to the covenants. Our conversation focuses on the book Drawn into Controversie: Reformed Theological Diversity and Debates Within Seventeenth Century British Puritanism (Vandenhoeck and Ruprecht, 2011), which Mark co-edited with Michael Haykin.

Mark is the minister of Faith Presbyterian Church, a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), in Vancouver, British Columbia. He is also Research Associate in the Faculty of Theology at University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa. Mark’s Ph.D. is from Leiden Universiteit (Oct. 2009) and his doctoral dissertation was entitled, “Why Heaven Kissed Earth: The Christology of the Puritan Reformed Orthodox theologian, Thomas Goodwin (1600–1680).”

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Mark Jones, Nick Batzig

The Theology and History of the Canon

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 05:00:55 -0400

In this episode, we welcome Michael Kruger to the program to speak about the theology and history of the canon. Dr. Kruger is one of the pastors at Uptown PCA in Charlotte, NC, as well as Professor of New Testament and Academic Dean at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC.

Dr. Kruger received his B.S. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, his M.Div. from Westminster Theological Seminary in California, and his Ph.D. from New College, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland. He is the author of The Gospel of the Savior (E.J. Brill, 2005), co-author of Gospel Fragments (Oxford University Press, 2009) and the forthcoming The Heresy of Orthodoxy: How Contemporary Culture’s Fascination with Diversity has Reshaped Our Understanding of Early Christianity (Crossway, 2010), and has had articles appear in such journals as The Journal of Theological Studies, The Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, The Expository Times, and The Master’s Seminary Journal.

His research interests center upon Christian Origins, particularly the development of the New Testament canon within the context of the early church. Prior to joining the RTS faculty, Dr. Kruger served in the pastorate for several years at Church of the Redeemer in Phoenix, AZ. There he developed a passion for preaching and ministry which he passes on to his students in the classroom. In addition to his faculty duties, he currently serves part-time as the Pastor of Discipleship Training at Uptown Christ Covenant Church in downtown Charlotte.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Michael Kruger

The Pastor as Scholar and the Scholar as Pastor

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 05:00:53 -0400

Today we welcome Owen Strachan to the program to speak about the new book, The Pastor as Scholar and the Scholar as Pastor: Reflections on Life and Ministry. Dr. Strachan is Assistant Professor of Christian Theology and Church History at Boyce College in Louisville, Kentucky. He has published six books and written with The Atlantic, First Things, Christianity Today, and the Scottish Bulletin of Evangelical Theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nick Batzig, Owen Strachan

Charles Hodge: The Pride of Princeton

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:00:27 -0400

Dr. W. Andrew Hoffecker describes the life and influence of Charles Hodge, one of the giants of American Presbyterianism. Dr. Hoffecker has written a fantastic biography titled Charles Hodge: Pride of Princeton, which has been published by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Mark Garcia, W. Andrew Hoffecker

The History of the Heidelberg Catechism

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:12 -0400

William Boekestein speaks about the history of the Heidelberg Catechism. Rev. Boekestein is pastor of Covenant Reformed Church in Carbondale, PA and the author of The Quest for Comfort: The Story of the Heidelberg Catechism published by Reformation Heritage Books. This wonderful book is written as a way for children to grasp the history behind the catechism, and its illustrations by Evan Hughes bring the book to life.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, William Boekestein

The Historical Adam

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:06 -0400

Rick Phillips joins Nick Batzig and Kenneth Kang-Hui to speak about the historical Adam. The teaching that Adam was a historical figure, the federal head of all those who descend from him by ordinary generation, has become a much debated topic. Rev. Phillips and the panel navigate through the issues and underscore why this traditional doctrine is so significant.

Rev. Phillips is pastor of Second Presbyterian Church PCA in Greenville, SC. Nick Batzig is church planter at New Covenant Presbyterian Church in Richmond Hill, GA. Kenneth Kang-Hui has been a long-time friend to Reformed Forum, and he is a member of a PCA church in New York City.

Participants: Kenneth Kang-Hui, Nick Batzig, Rick Phillips

Justification and Union with Christ

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:57 -0400

Today we welcome Dr. Michael S. Horton and Dr. Lane G. Tipton to the program to discuss justification and its relation to union with Christ. Dr. Horton is Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary California. He is the author of many books on a variety of theological topics—two of which that are germane to our discussion today are Covenant and Salvation: Union with Christ and The Christian Faith: A Systematic Theology for Pilgrims on the Way. Dr. Tipton is Charles Krahe Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. He has co-edited Revelation and Reasons: New Essays in Reformed Apologetics and Resurrection and Eschatology: Essays in Honor of Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.

In Christ the Center episode 200, Dr. Tipton spoke about the doctrine of union with Christ. In the course of the interview, Tipton drew out what he saw as implications of the views presented by Dr. Horton in his book Covenant and Salvation: Union with Christ. In Christ the Center episode 207, Dr. Horton responded to the remarks. We are delighted to welcome both men to the program to continue the conversation together.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview are solely of the individuals and are not the views of Reformed Forum or any other organization affiliated with the participants in this interview.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton, Michael Horton

Sanctification

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:20 -0400

Rick Phillips and Kevin DeYoung join a panel to address the doctrine of sanctification. This is an important conversation that addresses the work of the Holy Spirit in applying the death and resurrection of Christ to believers. Join us for a fascinating conversation on this aspect of soteriology.

Rev. Phillips is Senior Minister of Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC and the author of several books including Jesus the Evangelist, What’s So Great About the Doctrines of Grace?, and the Hebrews and Zechariah Reformed Expository commentaries. Rev. DeYoung is Senior Pastor at University Reformed Church (RCA) in East Lansing, Michigan and the author of several books including Don’t Call it a Comeback: The Old Faith for a New Day and What is the Mission of the Church? Making Sense of Social Justice, Shalom, and the Great Commission with Greg Gilbert.

Participants: Kevin DeYoung, Nick Batzig, Rick Phillips

Church Planting

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:56 -0400

Jim Cassidy leads a discussion on church planting in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church with Brad Hertzog and Mark Winder. Rev. Hertzog is Pastor of Reformation Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Queens, NY and Rev. Winder is Church Planter of Wolf River Presbyterian Church in Collierville, TN near Memphis.

post image by _sig_.

Participants: Brad Hertzog, Jim Cassidy, Mark A. Winder

Highlights from 2011

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:38 -0400

We celebrate another year of Christ the Center by bringing to you a number of highlights from 2011.

Episode 156 – Darryl Hart on Machen, Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, and the OPC
Episode 160 – Carl Trueman on historiography
Episode 161 – Winston Smith on marriage as a picture of Christ’s relation to the Church
Episode 162 – Mark A. Garcia on the justification landscape
Episode 163 – K. Scott Oliphint on Gordon Clark, Cornelius Van Til, the Trinity, and logic
Episode 185 – James Dolezal on the doctrine of divine simplicity
Episode 192 – Sandy Finlayson on the founding of the Free Church of Scotland
Episode 200 – Lane Tipton on various Lutheran theologies of justification
Episode 203 – Jim Cassidy on Van Til’s criticism of Barth
Episode 206 – Kevin DeYoung on holiness, antinomianism, and neo-nomianism

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Darryl G. Hart, James Dolezal, Jim Cassidy, K. Scott Oliphint, Lane G. Tipton, Mark Garcia, Sandy Finlayson, Winston Smith

Suffering and the Christian Life

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode we speak with Dr. J. Ligon Duncan about suffering and the Christian life. Rev. Dr. Duncan is Senior Minister of First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, MS and President of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals. He’s also the author of several books including Fear Not: Death and the Afterlife from a Christian Perspective and Does Grace Grow Best in Winter?. This interview was recorded on November 4, 2011 during the Princeton Conference on Reformed Theology organized by the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.

post image by The Doctr.

Participants: Camden Bucey, J. Ligon Duncan, Jeong Koo Jeon

Union with Christ, A Response

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:31 -0400

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Michael S. Horton to the program once again. Dr. Horton is Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary California. He is also the president of White Horse Inn, a co-host of their national radio program, and the editor-in-chief of Modern Reformation magazine. He is also the author of many books on a variety of theological topics—two of which that are germane to our discussion today are Covenant and Salvation: Union with Christ and The Christian Faith: A Systematic Theology for Pilgrims on the Way.

In Christ the Center episode 200, Dr. Lane G. Tipton, Professor of Systematic and Biblical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, spoke about the doctrine of union with Christ. In the course of the interview, Tipton drew out what he saw as implications of the views presented by Dr. Horton in his book Covenant and Salvation: Union with Christ. This episode is Dr. Horton’s response to Tipton’s previous statements.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Michael Horton

Holiness and the Christian Life

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 05:00:06 -0400

Kevin DeYoung speaks about holiness and sanctification in this episode of Christ the Center. Given the recent discussions of the role of sanctification in soteriology and the age-old errors of antinomianism and neonomianism, we are delighted to focus our attention on this important issue. DeYoung is the Senior Pastor at University Reformed Church (RCA) in East Lansing, Michigan and the author of several books including Don’t Call it a Comeback: The Old Faith for a New Day and What is the Mission of the Church? Making Sense of Social Justice, Shalom, and the Great Commission with Greg Gilbert. He also posts regularly at his blog. This discussion focuses on DeYoung’s forthcoming book The Hole in Our Holiness.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Kevin DeYoung

God… With Us

Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:03 -0400

Dr. K. Scott Oliphint speaks about the doctrine of God and his book God with Us: Divine Condescension and the Attributes of God. Dr. Oliphint is Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary in Glenside, PA. In this episode, he entertains several general questions about the doctrine of God before moving to a more pointed discussion of how an infinite, eternal, and immutable God can create and then relate to that creation.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, K. Scott Oliphint

The King James Bible

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:00:13 -0400

Dr. Carl Trueman, Professor of Historical Theology and Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary, describes the historical context leading up to the creation of the King James Bible. This year marks the 400th anniversary of the influential translation, and Dr. Trueman has appeared in a film detailing its birth. The movie, KJB: The Book that Changed the World is wonderfully done. Join us for this fascinating discussion of this incredibly influential translation.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman

The Critics of Van Til’s Take on Barth

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 05:00:32 -0400

Cornelius Van Til was an early and significant critic of Karl Barth, yet many contemporary Barthians reject his criticism. Several contributions in the recent book Karl Barth and American Evangelicalism contain this sentiment. Today, we spend time discussing this topic with Jim Cassidy with the hope of promoting a better understanding of Van Til’s position.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Theology of Karl Barth

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:00:41 -0400

Jim Cassidy speaks about the basic contours of Karl Barth’s theology. Karl Barth and American Evangelicalism, edited by Bruce L. McCormack and Clifford B. Anderson, is a recent contribution to this growing body of scholarship. The volume is compiled from contributions to a 2007 conference sponsored by The Center for Barth Studies at Princeton Theological Seminary and The Karl Barth Society of North America. In this episode, Jim helpfully describes the theology of Karl Barth, this incredibly significant figure.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Greatness and Love of God

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 05:00:01 -0400

Today we welcome Dr. Bryan Chapell, President and Professor of Practical Theology at Covenant Theological Seminary, to speak about the greatness and love of God. Dr. Chapell is the author of several books, but many of our listeners may know him best for his book Christ-Centered Worship and of course his much celebrated Christ-Centered Preaching. He’ll be speaking at the upcoming Quakertown Regional Conference on Reformed Theology Nov. 11-12 in Quakertown, PA.

Participants: Bryan Chapell, Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

Union with Christ

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 05:00:04 -0400

We celebrate the 200th episode of Christ the Center together with our guest (and studio host!), Dr. Lane G. Tipton. Dr. Tipton is the Charles Krahe Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, and has done extensive work on Reformed soteriology. In this milestone episode, we treat several dimensions of the Reformed discussion of union with Christ including Lutheranism, definitive sanctification, and the incorporation of transformative aspects into justification. Join us for this memorable and lively discussion. Dr. Michael Horton responded to Dr. Lane G. Tipton in episode 207 of Christ the Center. The views and opinions expressed in this interview are solely of the individuals and are not the views of Reformed Forum or any other organization affiliated with the participants in this interview.

Books

Van Til, Barth, and American Evangelicalism

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 05:00:59 -0400

Darryl G. Hart returns to explore Barthianism in America. Darryl Hart has contributed to Karl Barth and American Evangelicalism, edited by Bruce L. McCormack and Clifford B. Anderson, is an interesting volume, compiled from contributions to a 2007 conference sponsored by The Center for Barth Studies at Princeton Theological Seminary and The Karl Barth Society of North America. Interestingly, several contributions address the subject of Van Til’s pointed critique of the influential theologian. Any student of Van Til is likely to be interested in this new publication and this intriguing discussion with Darryl Hart.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart

Evangelicals and the Betrayal of American Conservatism

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:00:13 -0400

In this episode, Darryl G. Hart speaks about his latest book From Billy Graham to Sarah Palin: Evangelicals and the Betrayal of American Conservatism. Hart argues that evangelicals ought to reclaim the conservatism of decades past as he delves into a number of historical and cultural trends in this engaging discussion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart

Our Great God

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 05:00:31 -0400

In this episode, we speak about the doctrine of God and its implications for other doctrines and all areas of life with Kevin DeYoung. DeYoung is the Senior Pastor at University Reformed Church (RCA) in East Lansing, Michigan, and he will be speaking at the Quakertown Regional Conference on Reformed Theology, which is titled Our Great God.

Books

What is the Mission of the Church? Making Sense of Social Justice, Shalom, and the Great Commission by Kevin DeYoung and Greg Gilbert
God with Us: Divine Condescension and the Attributes of God by K. Scott Oliphint

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Kevin DeYoung, Nick Batzig

La théologie Réformée en France

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 05:00:11 -0400

In this special episode, Christ the Center welcomes Kim Tran and Yannick Imbert from the Faculté Jean Calvin in Aix-en Provence to speak about the history and current state of Reformed theology in France. This is a fascinating global discussion that spans the Reformation to contemporary philosophers such as Jacques Derrida and Michel Foucault.

Participants: Barbara Edgar, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Kim Tran, Yannick Imbert

Theologizing in a Connected Culture

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 05:00:28 -0400

Jared Oliphint and Camden Bucey speak about a number of topics in today’s open discussion, but the discussion gravitated toward theologizing in today’s connected culture. With the proliferation of social media, particularly Twitter, theology seems to be growing and spreading in new ways. Jared and Camden speak about these changing dynamics—particularly the role of polemics.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint

The Significance of the Resurrection

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 05:00:28 -0400

People often speak of the “cross” synecdochally, that is, referring to the entire work of redemption accomplished by Christ. While this is perfectly acceptable, repeated use of this construction can under-emphasize the significance of the resurrection. In this episode, the resurrection is displayed within the context of redemptive-history and its bearing upon the benefits of salvation is demonstrated as the panelists discuss many of the works of Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington

Evangelicals and Political Conservatism

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 05:00:55 -0400

Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey discuss the evangelical involvement in American politics using Darryl G. Hart’s recent From Billly Graham to Sarah Palin: Evangelicals and the Betrayal of American Conservatism as a guide. Evangelicals are often considered politically conservative, yet this is not always the case. Hear how the worlds of theology and politics intersect in this friendly conversation.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

The Founders of the Free Church of Scotland

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 05:00:08 -0400

Christ the Center is very pleased to welcome Sandy Finlayson to the program to discuss his book Unity & Diversity: The Founders of the Free Church of Scotland. Mr. Finlayson is Professor of Theological Bibliography and Director of Library Services at Westminster Theological Seminary. The book is a wonderful perspective to the history of the Free Church as it presents stimulating and readable biographies of many key figures surrounding the founding of the Free Church of Scotland. This discussion is thoroughly enjoyable.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Sandy Finlayson

Issues in Systematic Theology

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 05:00:37 -0400

Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey speak about various contemporary issues in systematic theology. The conversation centers mainly on union with Christ and the salvific benefits that flow from that union. The subject has been significant throughout the history of the church, and is no less significant today. Join us for a friendly conversation on Jesus Christ and his gospel.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Perspectives on the Sabbath

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 05:00:58 -0400

Chris Donato joins the panel to speak about various views on the Sabbath. Mr. Donato has editing the book Perspectives on the Sabbath: 4 Views published by Broadman and Holman Publishers. Skip MacCarty (Andrews University) defends the Seventh-day view which argues the fourth commandment is a moral law of God requiring us to keep the seventh day (Saturday) holy. Jospeh A Pipa (Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary) backs the Christian Sabbath view which reasons that ever since the resurrection of Christ, the one day in seven to be kept holy is the first day of the week. Craig L. Blomberg (Denver Seminary) supports the Fulfillment view which says that since Christ has brought the true Sabbath rest into the present, the Sabbath commands of the Old Testament are no longer binding on believers. Charles P. Arand (Concordia Seminary) upholds the Lutheran view that the Sabbath commandment was given to Jews alone and does not concern Christians. Rest and worship are still required but not tied to a particular day.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Donato, Jeff Waddington

The Reformation: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 05:00:15 -0400

Dr. Carl Trueman, Professor of Historical Theology and Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary, returns to Christ the Center to speak about the republication of his book The Reformation: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow. Dr. Trueman speaks about the abiding significance of the Reformation even today as he adroitly describes its salient features and applies them to the contemporary church. Trueman’s insights are truly a joy to hear.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Jared Oliphint

Redeeming Sociology

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 05:00:57 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Dr. Vern Poythress back to the program to discuss his latest book Redeeming Sociology. The title alone may leave some people wondering why it was written by a professor of New Testament interpretation. Yet those familiar with Dr. Poythress’ work will quickly come to realize how he has thoroughly applied his God-centered Trinitarian approach to the subject of human relationships. From the publisher:

Redeeming Sociology advocates a biblically informed model for human relationships—relationships rooted in the Trinitarian character of God, his governance of the world, and his redemption accomplished in Christ. Poythress examines how the breaking of relationships through sin leads to strife, murder, and oppression among human beings and sets cultures against one another. And he shows how these broken relationships are restored through the outworking of redemption in Christ. Though typical sociological models for interpersonal relationships may offer some valuable insights, they are handicapped by a fundamental misunderstanding of humanity. The biblical model that Poythress presents correctly diagnoses the problem of human relationships, so it can likewise prescribe a biblical solution that infuses new meaning and power into how we relate to others made in the image of God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, Vern Poythress

Zephaniah: Protology in Eschatology

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 05:00:45 -0400

Mark A. Winder joins the panel to discuss the rich redemptive-historical themes of Zephaniah. Mark has written a thesis titled Zephaniah: Protology in Eschatology and takes time to walk us through the several biblical-theological threads found throughout the book. Rev. Winder is a church planter at Wolf River Presbyterian Church in Collierville, TN near Memphis.

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

Redemptive-Historical Hermeneutics

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 05:00:41 -0400

Lane G. Tipton provides the biblical warrant for a transtestamental gospel that understands the organic unity of the Old and New Testaments. Tipton contributed a chapter to the recent Confident of Better Things: Essays Commemorating Seventy-Five Years of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Dr. Tipton is also the co-editor of Revelation and Reason: New Essays in Reformed Apologetics and Resurrection and Eschatology: Theology in Service of the Church: Essays in Honor of Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington, Lane G. Tipton

God without Parts: The Doctrine of Divine Simplicity

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 04:00:15 -0400

Recent trends in evangelical theology have called into question the traditional understanding of God’s being. For centuries, theologians have maintained that God is immutable and simple, that is, not composed of parts. Yet many recent philosophers of religion have found the doctrine to be untenable. Dr. James Dolezal argues for the importance of retaining divine simplicity while he discusses his dissertation in this fascinating look at the classic doctrine.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington

The Orthodox Presbyterian Church from 1945 to 1990

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 05:00:14 -0400

The Orthodox Presbyterian Church was formed in 1936 out of the modernist-fundamentalist controversy at a time when figures such as J. Gresham Machen were struggling with liberal influences at Princeton Seminary and the mainline Presbyterian Church. Much has been written on those early years, but a significant gap in the history persisted until recently. For the OPC’s 75th anniversary, the Committee for the Historian has commissioned two books. The first is a collection of essays edited by John R. Muether and Danny E. Olinger titled Confident of Better Things. The second is Between the Times: The Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Transition 1945-1990 written by Darryl. G. Hart. Hart’s book wonderfully chronicles the OPC during the transition beyond the first generation as the young Reformed denomination sought to find its identity in a changing evangelical world. Today Dr. Hart visits Christ the Center to speak about this important period in American Presbyterianism.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Jim Cassidy

Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 05:00:27 -0400

Nancy Guthrie comes on to talk about her upcoming book from Crossway, The Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis. This is the first in a series titled “Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament: A 10-week Bible Study.” Nancy is the author of a number of books on the subject of Christ in the Old Testament including The One Year Book of Discovering Jesus in the Old Testament. Nancy is a well-known speaker on this topic as well as the topic of losing a child. Nancy and her husband David have ministered to countless couples who have gone through what she and David have gone through, and continue to provide resources through retreats and her autobiographical books on the subject such as Holding Onto Hope: A Pathway Through Suffering to the Heart of God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nancy Guthrie

Jonathan Edwards’s Apologetic

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 05:00:55 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the privilege of interviewing Rev. Dr. Robert Davis Smart, senior minister of Christ Church (PCA) in Bloomington, IL, and author of the recently released Jonathan Edwards’s Apologetic for the Great Awakening. This is an excellent study of Edwards’s moderate defense of the First Great Awakening over against the criticisms of the “Old Brick” and future quasi-Unitarian Charles Chauncy. Smart points out that the big question was: Was the awakening a work of the Holy Spirit? Dr. Smart also discusses the relevance of Edwards and revival for today.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Robert Davis Smart

Edwards on the Infinite Merit of Christ

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 05:00:07 -0400

Dr. Craig Biehl shares his work on Jonathan Edwards’ views pertaining to Christ’s merit. Biehl’s dissertation has been published as a book titled The Infinite Merit of Christ: The Glory of Christ’s Obedience in the Theology of Jonathan Edwards. Biehl and Jeff Waddington speak of the current state of Edwards scholarship and the need for a thorough analysis of Edwards own writings as opposed to studies treating primarily the secondary literature. What a thorough-going study yields is Edwards’s covenant theology and rich understanding of Christ’s work for his people. As an added bonus toward the end of the episode, Dr. Biehl discusses a short booklet titled What’s in the Box?: The Unreasonable Faith of Atheism and Agnosticism.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Craig Biehl, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Transformationalism and Christian Higher Education

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 05:00:52 -0400

Dr. William Dennison discusses transformational eschatology and Christian higher education. Dr. Dennison’s has written two articles that become the subject of discussion. In The Christian Academy: Antithesis, Common Grace, and Plato’s View of the Soul, Dennison uses Plato’s view of the soul as a test case in the need for a fully biblical approach to higher education, and in Dutch Neo-Calvinism and the Roots for Transformation: An Introductory Essay Dennison provides a helpful introduction into the roots and early history of Dutch neo-Calvinism. Dr. Dennison is Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA and Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Northwest Theological Seminary in Lynnwood, WA. Dennison is the author of The Young Bultmann: Context for His Understanding of God, 1884-1925.

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

The Ethics of Bankruptcy

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 05:00:29 -0400

Dr. David Skeel, professor of corporate law at UPenn, discusses Christians in legal studies in addition to the ethics of bankruptcy. David Skeel is the S. Samuel Arsht Professor of Corporate Law at University of Pennsylvania Law School and the author of The New Financial Deal: Understanding the Dodd-Frank Act and Its (Unintended) Consequences (Wiley, 2010), Icarus in the Boardroom (Oxford, 2005), and Debt’s Dominion: A History of Bankruptcy Law in America (Princeton, 2001), as well as numerous articles and other publications. He has been interviewed on The News Hour, Nightline, Chris Matthews’ Hardball (MSNBC), National Public Radio, and Marketplace, among others, and has been quoted in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post and other newspapers and magazines. Skeel has twice received the Harvey Levin award for outstanding teaching, as selected by a vote of the graduating class, and has also received the University’s Lindback Award for distinguished teaching. In addition to bankruptcy and corporate law, Skeel also writes on sovereign debt, Christianity and law, and poetry and the law, and is an elder at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Skeel, James Sweet

R. L. Dabney

Fri, 27 May 2011 04:56:01 -0400

Sean Michael Lucas, senior pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Hattiesburg, MS, speaks about his book Robert Lewis Dabney: A Southern Presbyterian Life. Dr. Lucas also previously taught church history and served as academic dean at Covenant Theological Seminary.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, Paul Maxwell, Sean Michael Lucas

The Right to Become Children of God

Fri, 20 May 2011 05:00:29 -0400

Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey continue their discussion of adoption from the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology. In this episode, the panel talks about John 1:12-13 and the right to become children of God. The conference, held annually at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, PA, is organized by the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Children of God

Fri, 13 May 2011 05:00:45 -0400

Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey speak about David Wells’ message the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology. Dr. Wells’ spoke about being members of the family of God from 1 John 3:1 “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.” The conference, held annually at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, PA, is organized by the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Biblical Manhood and Womanhood

Fri, 06 May 2011 05:00:36 -0400

Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey speak about biblical manhood and womanhood from the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology. The conference, held annually at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, PA, is organized by the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Gabe Fluhrer, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Urban Churches, Christian Education, and Ecclesiology

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 05:00:18 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to continue their coverage of the Gospel Coalition’s 2011 National Conference in Chicago, IL. On this episode, they speak with several guests including Doug Logan of Epiphany Fellowship. Doug is planting an urban church in Camden, NJ. Chris Larson, Executive Vice President at Ligonier Ministries also checked in. Chris speaks about several new Ligonier initiatives including their Reformation Bible College and Ligonier Connect. Finally, Mark Dever visits to speak about about pastoral searches and multi-site churches. Rev. Dr. Dever is senior pastor at Capitol Hill Baptist Church and the founder of 9Marks Ministries.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Larson, Doug Logan, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Mark Dever

Business Ethics, Pastoral Searches, and Van Til as Biblical Counselor

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 05:00:52 -0400

Christ the Center comes to you from the floor of The Gospel Coalition 2011 National Conference in Chicago, IL. In this episode, the hosts welcome several guests to speak about a variety of issues. Bob Doll speaks about Christian business ethics. Bob Doll is Chief Equity Strategist for Fundamental Equities at BlackRock a premier provider of global investment management, risk management and advisory services. Mr. Doll will be a speaker at the upcoming business ethics conference organized by the Center for Christian Business Ethics. [0:48] Chris Brauns speaks about his books Unpacking Forgiveness and When the Word Leads Your Pastoral Search. Chris is the pastor at the Red Brick Church in Stillman Valley, IL and writes frequently on his website. [12:40] Pastor Scotty Smith visits to speak about the unique congregation at Christ Community Church in Franklin, TN as well as his interesting practice of writing daily prayers. [28:51] David Powlison explains the deep connection between biblical counseling and Van Tilian apologetics. David is a faculty member at the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation, a board member of the Biblical Counseling Coalition, and teaches courses at Westminster Theological Seminary. In this illuminating segment, Dr. Powlison helps to unpack the latent philosophical frameworks in secular psychology. [38:27]

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chris Brauns, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack

Reformed and Puritan Perspectives on Prayer

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 05:00:04 -0400

Brian Najapfour, pastor from the Philippines and a PhD student at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses his book Taking Hold of God: Reformed and Puritan Perspectives on Prayer. The book, which Najapfour co-edited with Joel R. Beeke, is a wealth of material on the subject of Christian prayer. The writings of many Reformed and Puritan thinkers on the subject shine through to provide a rich understanding of this means of grace.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

Biblical Counseling and TGC2011

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 05:00:37 -0400

Christ the Center comes to you from the floor of The Gospel Coalition 2011 National Conference in Chicago, IL. In the first segment of this episode, Jared Oliphint and Camden Bucey discuss biblical counseling and ecclesiology. [1:26] Chuck Haddox of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Jeremy Kicklighter of Covenant Seminary, and Jonathan Brack of Westminster Theological Seminary join the panel to speak about trends in seminary admissions. [18:00] Michael McKinley, pastor at Guilford Baptist Church in Sterling, Virginia. Mike is the author of Church Planting is for Wimps. Mike spoke about church planting at TGC11. [38:45] Finally, Josh Harris, senior pastor of Covenant Life Church in Gaithersburg, MD stops by to speak about the NEXT Conference. [44:12]

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack

The Gospel Coalition 2011 National Conference

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 05:00:28 -0400

Reformed Forum brings you Christ the Center from the floor of The Gospel Coalition 2011 National Conference in Chicago, IL. Jared, Jonathan, Camden, and several Reformed Forum listeners speak about a variety of topics including denominations and ecclesiology. Though not published first, this was Reformed Forum’s first recording from the event. Three subsequent episodes will be released in the near future. View all the published episodes from the conference on the TGC2011 page.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint

These Last Days

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 05:00:12 -0400

Richard D. Phillips and Gabriel Fluhrer visit to discuss their latest book These Last Days: A Christian View of History. Last year, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals hosted a series of conferences exploring a Christian view of history. Many of the conference addresses have been compiled into this great book.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Gabe Fluhrer, Jim Cassidy, Rick Phillips

Universalism and Deification

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 05:00:56 -0400

Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey analyze popular formulations of universalism and look to related themes in theologies of deification, divinization, and theosis.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Christ in Leviticus

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 05:00:04 -0400

Douglas Clawson is Associate General Secretary for the Committee on Foreign Missions for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. In this episode, Clawson speaks about the controlling theme of Leviticus as he connects the themes of holiness and cleanliness to our doctrine of sin and the manifold work of Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Doug Clawson

The Practice of Law and the Christian

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 05:00:28 -0400

The Christian’s relationship to the civil law is a perennial point of discussion. Nearly a year ago Christ the Center explored this issue in the Christ & Culture series. Today we take some of those theological themes and see how they apply in practice. James Sweet, former Chairman of Drinker Biddle & Reath, speaks about his career practicing law and how the reality of being a Christian comes to bear.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Sweet, Jared Oliphint

The Role of the Seminary in Today’s World

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 05:00:32 -0400

Christ the Center is honored to welcome seminary presidents Albert Mohler and Peter Lillback to discuss the role of the seminary in today’s world. Dr. Albert Mohler serves as president of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Listeners may know Dr. Mohler from The Albert Mohler Program, a daily nationwide radio program. Dr. Mohler is the author of He is Not Silent: Preaching in a Postmodern World, Atheism Remix: A Christian Confronts the New Atheists, and Culture Shift: Engaging Current Issues with Timeless Truth. He has appeared as a guest on a host of television and radio programs and we are very pleased to welcome him today. Dr. Peter Lillback is President of Westminster Theological Seminary and he also serves as president of the Providence Forum, a non-profit organization whose mission is to re-instill and promote a Judeo-Chrsitian worldview within our culture. Dr. Lillback is the author of George Washington’s Sacred Fire and The Binding of God: Calvin’s Role in the Development of Covenant Theology.

Participants: Albert Mohler, Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Peter A. Lillback

The Creation Covenant

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 05:00:32 -0400

Dr. Rowland Ward speaks about his historical and theological masterpiece God & Adam: Reformed Theology and the Creation Covenant. While there has been, and continues to be, much debate over the precise relationship between the pre- and post-lapsarian covenants, Dr. Ward provides one of the most well researched and carefully documented studies of the development of covenant theology from the 1st to the 21st Century. Tracing the history of Covenant Theology through the Westminsterian tradition of the 17th Century to the Murray-Kline debate of the 20th Century, Dr. Ward provides an invaluable resource for theologians, pastors and seminarians. This work is truly an indispensable study for anyone desiring to understand God’s covenantal dealings with His people.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, Rowland Ward

The Clark/Van Til Controversy

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:00:51 -0400

K. Scott Oliphint explores the issue of divine and human knowledge as it relates to the Clark/Van Til controversy. Dr. Oliphint is Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary and is the author of several books on apologetics including Reasons for Faith and The Battle Belongs to the Lord.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, K. Scott Oliphint

The Justification Landscape

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 05:00:46 -0400

Mark Garcia is pastor at Immanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Coraopolis, PA. He is the author of Life in Christ: Union with Christ and Twofold Grace in Calvin’s Theology. In this episode, Garcia speaks about the reformed conception of union with Christ and how a reformed soteriology is distinguished from the salient features of the New Perspective on Paul and the Federal Vision. Issues of imputation, covenant, and the forensic and renovative aspects of salvation enter in to this important discussion.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Mark Garcia

Christ and Marriage

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 05:00:36 -0400

Winston Smith joins the panel to discuss Christian marriage and his book Marriage Matters: Extraordinary Change through Ordinary Moments. Smith is a counselor and faculty member at CCEF, a ministry focused on biblical counseling.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Winston Smith

Historical Methodology

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 05:00:57 -0400

Carl Trueman comes on to discuss his recent book, Histories and Fallacies: Problems Faced in the Writing of History, and other issues relating to historiography and a philosophy of history.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack

The Gospel Coalition

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:00:08 -0400

John Starke of The Gospel Coalition (TGC) visits the program to talk about their website, the TGC Reviews, the TGC conference, and how they see themselves in relation to the church at large.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, John Starke

The Life and Thought of Herman Bavinck

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 05:00:54 -0400

Ron Gleason discusses his new intellectual biography of Herman Bavinck. The book, titled Herman Bavinck: Pastor, Churchman, Statesman, and Theologian, is published by Presbyterian and Reformed Publishers.

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Ron Gleason

Sister Aimee

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 05:00:24 -0400

R. Scott Clark, Professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Westminster Seminary California, discusses his essay in Always Reformed, the recent festschrift for Dr. Robert Godfrey. The collection is edited by R. Scott Clark and Joel E. Kim and contains contributions from several noted reformed theologians. Dr. Clark’s essay, “Magic and Noise: Reformed Christianity in Sister’s America,“ is an interesting look into American evangelicalism through one of its most enthusiastic figures.

Machen’s Warrior Children

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 05:00:36 -0400

Darryl G. Hart visits with the panel of Christ the Center once again. On this episode Dr. Hart speaks about his latest essay found in Always Reformed, a festschrift written in honor of Dr. Robert Godfrey.

Highlights from 2010

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 05:00:54 -0400

Today we finish our third full year of Christ the Center episodes. And to date we’ve been able to bring you a new episode every Friday since we began three years ago. It has become our tradition to close each year with a brief selection of highlights from the year’s episodes. And so today we’re bringing you clips from eight different episodes that we think provide a decent representation of the types of discussions we have on Christ the Center.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Daniel Kunkle, Danny Olinger, Darryl G. Hart, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Jonathan Brack, K. Scott Oliphint, Nick Batzig, Peter A. Lillback, Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

Liberating Black Theology

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 05:00:04 -0400

Anthony Bradley discusses his book, Liberating Black Theology: The Bible and the Black Experience in America, which is a revised form of his dissertation he did while a PhD student at WTS. Dr. Bradley discusses Jeremiah Wright, James Cone, and concepts such as oppression and victimology that are key to understanding the black theology movement. We talk with Dr. Bradley about a Reformed understanding of race and ethnicity in the church.

Links

Participants: Anthony Bradley, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack

Jonathan Edwards and the Image of God

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 05:00:34 -0400

Jeff Waddington speaks about Jonathan Edwards’ theological anthropology. He distinguishes Edwards’ approach from that of Thomas Aquinas and explains its significance for apologetics.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Trinitarian Personality

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 05:00:51 -0400

Christ the Center explores the incomprehensible and doxological subject of Trinitarian personality. Dr. Tipton previously discussed the subject on Christ the Center episode #49.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington

The Philosophy of Science

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 05:00:19 -0400

In a call to our modern society to reexamine the fundamental presuppositions of the dominant worldview, the panel discusses the philosophy of science. post photo from NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center

Contemporary Issues in Ecclesiology

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 05:00:05 -0400

Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, and Camden Bucey engage in an open conversation about current issues in the life and understanding of the church. The discussion addresses multi-site churches, the culture of celebrity, social networking, and the democratization of information. post photo by Paul Watson

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

Amillennialism

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 05:00:56 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Kim Riddlebarger to the program to discuss amillennialism. Dr. Riddlebarger is senior pastor of Christ Reformed Church in Anaheim, California (www.christreformed.org), visiting professor of systematic theology at Westminster Seminary California, and co-host of The White Horse Inn. In 2003 Dr. Riddlebarger’s book A Case for Amillennialism: Understanding the End Times was published by Baker Books. It has proven to be a tremendous resource for people struggling to make sense of various eschatological positions. Riddlebarger has also written a book titled The Man of Sin: Uncovering the Truth about the Antichrist.

Formulating a Christian Epistemology

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 05:00:43 -0400

Several contributors to Philosophy for Theologians convene to discuss the guidelines for formulating a Christian epistemology. As a starting point, the panel looks at the seminal work by Edmund Gettier Is Justified True Belief Knowledge? In 1963 Gettier published a 3-page paper that turned the philosophical world on its head by supplying counterexamples that challenged the common definition of knowledge. Gettier’s examples have come to be known as demonstrating the Gettier Problem.

Machen and Bultmann at Marburg

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 05:00:56 -0400

Bill Dennison discusses the possibility of a personal acquaintance between J. Gresham Machen and Rudolf Bultmann. Both men are key figures in opposing wings of Protestantism. Machen being the figurehead of conservative Presbyterianism in the early 20th c. as he founded Westminster Theological Seminary and led the movement to begin the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Rudolf Bultmann, on the other hand, pioneered the Second Quest of higher biblical criticism. Dr. Dennison is Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA and Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Northwest Theological Seminary in Lynnwood, WA. Dennison is the author of The Young Bultmann: Context for His Understanding of God, 1884-1925.

Links

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint

Christianity and Politics

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 05:00:38 -0400

Dr. Carl Trueman, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Westminster Theological Seminary, and Dr. Peter A. Lillback, President of Westminster, discuss the proper relationship of Christianity to the political sphere. Dr. Trueman is the author of Republocrat, a new book that challenges the reigning partisan brand of politics in the U.S. Dr. Lillback is the other of Wall of Misconception, a book arguing that the separation of church and state does not mean the separation of Christianity and government, as well as the book George Washington’s Sacred Fire, which was featured on the Glenn Beck program.

Word, Water and Spirit

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 05:00:26 -0400

John V. Fesko provides an historical, biblical-theological, and systematic view of baptism in his new book Word, Water and Spirit. Dr. Fesko is the academic dean and associate professor of systematic theology at Westminster Seminary California. He is also the author of The Rule of Love and Justification: Understanding the Classic Reformed Doctrine. Rev. Fesko has appeared on two prior episodes of Christ the Center.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, John Fesko, Nick Batzig

Modern Roman Catholicism

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 05:00:28 -0400

Christ the Center discusses the developments in Roman Catholic theology that came with Vatican II. In this episode, we welcome an able panel including Nathan Shannon, who wrote a ThM thesis on Karl Rahner, Michael Matossian, PhD candidate at Marquette University, and Danny Olinger, who studied at Duquesne University. Danny has written a helpful primer on Vatican II which appears in the lastest edition of Ordained Servant.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Michael Matossian, Nate Shannon

The Point of a Sermon

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 05:00:59 -0400

Christ the Center speaks with Dennis Prutow, Professor of Homiletics and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, to speak about his book So Pastor, What’s Your Point?

Participants: Camden Bucey, Nick Batzig

Van Til, Barth and Liberalism

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 05:00:09 -0400

Jim Cassidy and Camden Bucey open the subject of Van Til’s criticisms of Karl Barth. Van Til was one of Barth’s earliest English-writing critics, and his criticisms are found in his books The New Modernism and Christianity and Barthianism. Van Til’s take on Barth has come under fire, but at least one noted Barthian, Bruce McCormack, has vindicated Van Til’s understanding.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy

The Pilgrim’s Progress

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 05:00:38 -0400

Dr. Barry Horner joins the program to discuss John Bunyan’s classic The Pilgrim’s Progress. Horner has thought deeply on the subject and has written a book of his own titled The Pilgrim’s Progress: Themes and Issues. His Doctor of Ministry degree from Westminster Seminary in California focused on the biblical/theological content of The Pilgrim’s Progress as well as its validity as an appropriate means for the communication of the Word of God. Dr. Horner teaches The Pilgrim’s Progress in church, seminar, and camp settings, and pastors Christ’s New Covenant Church, Tucson, Arizona.

Links

Participants: Barry Horner, Camden Bucey, Nate Shannon

Natural Theology

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 05:00:11 -0400

The idea of natural theology has been much debated. One’s understanding regarding the project of natural theology will inevitably impact substantially one’s apologetic methodology and epistemology. K. Scott Oliphint and James Dolezal visit the Reformed Forum studio to discuss natural theology. Michael Sudduth’s book The Reformed Objection to Natural Theology (Burlington: Ashgate, 2009) will act as the foil of the discussion. The book is in the Ashgate “Philosophy of Religion” series edited by Paul Helm and Linda Zagzebski. In The Reformed Objection to Natural Theology Sudduth identifies three main categories in the world of Reformed objections to natural theology: objections from the immediacy of our knowledge of God, the noetic effects of sin, and the logic of theistic arguments. While recognizing various forms of natural theology, Sudduth argues that none of the main Reformed objections are successful against the project of natural theology itself. The foundation for Sudduth’s book was laid in his 1996 D.Phil. dissertation at the University of Oxford. In that work, Sudduth attempted “to synthesize the Reformed epistemology of Alvin Plantinga and features of the evidentialist tradition with its emphasis on natural theology – rational arguments for the existence and nature of God.” (Sudduth, Preface) The book is even titled after Plantinga’s 1980 paper of the same title.

The Theology of B.B. Warfield

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 05:00:46 -0400

Fred Zaspel is the author of the soon to be released volume on the theology of B.B. Warfield, published by Crossway titled The Theology of B.B. Warfield: A Systematic Summary. He has also authored a recent timely article in Themelios on Warfield’s take on evolution. We discuss the background of his interest in Warfield, the great Princeton theologian’s take on evolution, and what we can learn from him today. From Crossway:

Fred G. Zaspel has spent many years studying Warfield’s published and unpublished writing, and presents here a concise and coherent systematic theology per B. B. Warfield. For the first time ever, readers can, in one volume, access the content of this great theologian’s academic, sermonic, and devotional works. Scholars, pastors, and students will profit from the unique combination of comprehensive detail and devotional warmth in this systematic theology.

Fred Zaspel is also the author of a series of booklets published by the Interdisciplinary Biblical Research Institute (IBRI), entitled, The Continuing Relevance of Divine Law (1991); The Theology of Fulfillment (1994); Jews, Gentiles, & the Goal of Redemptive History (1996). Along with Tom Wells, Pastor Fred has co-authored a major work entitled New Covenant Theology.

Other Related Works

Participants: Camden Bucey, Fred Zaspel, Jim Cassidy

Christian Education

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 05:00:12 -0400

Christ the Center interviews Daniel Kunkle, Bible teacher at Phil-Mont Christian Academy. The panel discusses Christian education and the issues involved in teaching secondary education from a Reformed perspective. Dan has been a Bible teacher, among other subjects, at Phil-Mont Christian Academy since 1979. He attends Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, has taught education courses in the area for a number of years, and has also taught courses in Christian Education for Westminster Theological Seminary.

Outline of Topics

History of Phil-Mont Christian Academy
The Bible department
Curriculum in Bible classes
Philosophy of education and the Christian school’s role within the broader culture
The Christian school in relation to the family and church
Communicating theology to students of various ages and backgrounds
Education and special needs students
Technology and education

post photo by davidrn

Participants: Camden Bucey, Daniel Kunkle, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Michael DeWalt

The Atonement

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 05:00:53 -0400

Gabe Fluhrer on the lasting importance of Christ’s act of penal substitutionary atonement. Gabe has recently edited Atonement, a collection of writings and sermons from J.I. Packer, Sinclair Ferguson, and several others on this critical doctrine.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Gabe Fluhrer, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington

Technology and the Christian Life

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 05:00:16 -0400

Dr. David P. Murray is Professor of Old Testament and Practical Theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dr. Murray speaks about his latest endeavors in media and theology. Dr. Murray has started a DVD series that deals with such subjects as “Christian parents training their children in the right use of media,” and a series on “Covenant Theology.” Information about his projects are available at the website Head, Heart, Hand. David also blogs at a Posterous blog titled Head, Heart, Hand and co-hosts the Connected Kingdom podcast with Tim Challies.

Joel Beeke at Independent Presbyterian Church in Savannah, GA (8/21/2010 – 8/22/2010)
Puritan Reformed Conference
Heidelberg Conference on Reformed Theology

post image from washingtonydc

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Murray, Michael DeWalt, Nick Batzig

The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 05:00:08 -0400

Nick Batzig, Josh Walker and Michael Dewalt talked with Dr. Steve Lawson, senior pastor of Christ Fellowship Baptist Church in Mobile, Alabama, about his book The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards. Dr. Lawson is the author of several books including Famine in the Land, Foundations of Grace, and The Expository Genius of John Calvin. Several of these works are published in Reformation Trust’s Long Line Profiles series. In The Unwavering Resolve of Jonathan Edwards, Dr. Lawson gives consideration to the way in which Edwards’ zeal for the glory of God guided his intellectual attainments. The greatness of Edwards did not ultimately lie in his intellectual genius, rather it was the spiritual and eternal mindedness with which he pursued.

The Westminster Assembly

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 05:00:45 -0400

The Christ the Center panel was joined by Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn, associate pastor of Grace OPC in Vienna, VA and senior research fellow at Wolfson College, University of Cambridge, to talk about the historical background and context of the Westminster Assembly and the documents that came from that body as well as learning about the Westminster Assembly Project with which Dr. Van Dixhoorn is associated. The conversation was enjoyable, informative, and edifying. A rare combination indeed.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Chad Van Dixhoorn, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The Preaching of the Scriptures

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 05:00:37 -0400

The Christ the Center panel, ably augmented by Glen Clary, pastor of Immanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church of West Collingswood, NJ, had the privilege of sitting down and chatting with Dr. Hughes Oliphant Old, the John H. Leith Professor of Reformed Theology and Worship at Erskine Theological Seminary and dean of its Institute for Reformed Worship, about his latest book, volume seven in the profoundly learned and helpful series The Reading and the Preaching of the Scriptures in the Worship of the Christian Church. While the conversation included discussion of various types of preaching and the oral (versus written) form of preaching, the focus of the conversation was on the importance of lectio continua or the consecutive exposition of Scripture, book by book, chapter by chapter, verse by verse. Christ the Center is pleased to offer this episode as a reminder to us all of the centrality of preaching, especially preaching as worship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Hughes Oliphant Old, Jeff Waddington

Paradox in Christian Theology

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 05:00:40 -0400

The Christ the Center panel recently met with Dr. James Anderson, assistant professor of theology and philosophy at the Charlotte campus of Reformed Theological Seminary, and author of Paradox in Christian Theology, to talk about his book. The discussion covered the basic thrust of the book, involving the presence and legitimacy of paradox (defined as a “merely apparent contradiction resulting from unarticulated equivocation”). Dr. Anderson discussed his two examples of paradox, the Trinity and the incarnation, along with his use and nuancing of Alvin Plantinga’s warrant model of epistemology. Additionally the panel discussed Dr. Anderson’s chapter in the John Frame festschrift Speaking the Truth in Love and whether multiperspectivalism is relativistic as is sometimes said.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Anderson, Jared Oliphint, Jonathan Brack, Nick Batzig

Thoughts on Preaching

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 05:00:03 -0400

The Christ the Center panel met with Anthony Selvaggio, a teaching elder in the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Rochester, NY, a visiting professor of New Testament at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA, a practicing attorney and author of many books and articles, about the necessity of remembering that ministers are called to preach to real people. Additionally the panel discussed the relationship of redemptive historical preaching to exemplary and experimental preaching. Finally, the panel discussed the obligation of pastors to avoid plagiarism when citing sources. All in all, this was a fascinating discussion about the central calling of the pastoral ministry. The discussion begins with an article Anthony for Reformation21 titled Preaching to People?

Participants: Anthony Selvaggio, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

Presbyterian and Reformed Family Trees

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 05:00:57 -0400

Darryl G. Hart speaks about the storied histories of the Presbyterian and Reformed churches.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart

Christ and Culture Roundup

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 05:00:00 -0400

Jeff Waddington and Camden Bucey roundup the entire Christ and culture series with a single episode overview of the issues.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Christ and Culture, Round 3: Darryl Hart

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 05:00:51 -0400

Darryl G. Hart brings his final remarks to the Christ and culture discussion table. Dr. Hart has authored A Secular Faith: Why Christianity Favors the Separation of Church and State, Defending the Faith: J. Gresham Machen and the Crisis of Conservative Protestant, and Deconstructing Evangelicalism: Conservative Protestantism in the Age of Billy Graham. This project is an asynchronous debate in the vein of the Four Views on… books published by InterVarsity Press. We recorded each participant independently over the course of three rounds – swapping recordings to the other participants between each round. These are Dr. Hart’s closing remarks.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart

Christ and Culture, Round 3: Bill Dennison

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 05:00:38 -0400

Bill Dennison brings his final remarks to the Christ and culture discussion table. Dr. Dennison has authored Paul’s Two-Age Construction and Apologetics and The Young Bultmann: Context for His Understanding of God, 1884-1925. This project is an asynchronous debate in the vein of the Four Views on… books published by InterVarsity Press. We recorded each participant independently over the course of three rounds – swapping recordings to the other participants between each round. These are Dr. Dennison’s closing remarks.

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey

Christ and Culture, Round 3: Nelson Kloosterman

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 05:00:40 -0400

Nelson Kloosterman brings his final remarks to the Christ and culture discussion table. Dr. Kloosterman teaches at Mid-America Seminary, and has translated The Ten Commandments: Manual for the Christian Life by Joachim Douma, a wonderful exposition of the Decalogue. This project is an asynchronous debate in the vein of the Four Views on… books published by InterVarsity Press. We recorded each participant independently over the course of three rounds – swapping recordings to the other participants between each round. These are Dr. Kloosterman’s closing remarks.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Nelson Kloosterman

Christ and Culture, Round 3: Doug Wilson

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 05:00:07 -0400

This marks the beginning of the third and final round of our Christ and Culture series. We have sought to bring together several different perspectives on the subject and today we share the final remarks from Doug Wilson. Mr. Wilson is pastor at Christ Church in Moscow, Idaho, and faculty member at New Saint Andrews College.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Doug Wilson

Kloosterman’s and Hart’s Responses

Fri, 28 May 2010 05:00:10 -0400

Today we continue our second round responses in our Christ and Culture series. Nelson Kloosterman and Darryl Hart respond to the comments made by the other participants during the first round.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Nelson Kloosterman

Wilson’s Response

Fri, 21 May 2010 17:32:58 -0400

Today we continue our second round responses in our Christ and Culture series. Doug Wilson responds to the comments made by Darryl Hart, Nelson Kloosterman and Bill Dennison in the first round.

Participants: Camden Bucey

Dennison’s Response

Fri, 14 May 2010 05:00:44 -0400

This is the first installment of responses in our Christ and Culture series. William Dennison responds to the comments made by Darryl Hart, Nelson Kloosterman and Doug Wilson in the first round.

Books by Bill Dennison

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey

Kingship and First Samuel

Fri, 07 May 2010 05:00:03 -0400

John Woodhouse speaks about the important theme of kingship in the books of Samuel. Rev. Dr. Woodhouse is Principal at Moore Theological College in Sydney, Australia and has written the commentary 1 Samuel: Looking for a Leader in the Preaching the Word Series (Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway Books, 2008).

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Common Grace, Natural Law and Eschatology

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 05:00:33 -0400

This is part four of our series entitled Christ and Culture and marks the end of our first round. Bill Dennison, Darryl Hart, Doug Wilson and Nelson Kloosterman each speak about their views of common grace, natural law, and eschatology. This series of programs strays from the typical Christ the Center format. This project is an asynchronous debate in the vein of the Counterpoints series published by InterVarsity Press. In future episodes each participant will have the opportunity to criticize the other views.

post photo by vermin inc

Books and other media from the participants

Bill Dennison

Darryl Hart

Nelson Kloosterman

The Ten Commandments: Manual for the Christian Life by Joachim Douma (Kloosterman trans.)

Doug Wilson

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Doug Wilson, Nelson Kloosterman

Vocation, Education and Fine Arts

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 05:00:03 -0400

This is part three of our series entitled Christ and Culture. Bill Dennison, Darryl Hart, Doug Wilson and Nelson Kloosterman each speak from their unique perspectives. Today the participants address the issues of vocation, education and engagement in the fine arts. This series of programs strays from the typical Christ the Center format. This project is an asynchronous debate in the vein of the Counterpoints series published by InterVarsity Press. In future episodes each participant will have the opportunity to criticize the other views.

post photo by Craig Stevens

Books and other media from the participants

Bill Dennison

Darryl Hart

Nelson Kloosterman

The Ten Commandments: Manual for the Christian Life by Joachim Douma (Kloosterman trans.)

Doug Wilson

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Doug Wilson, Nelson Kloosterman

Christ and Culture: Politics

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 05:00:07 -0400

This is part two of our series entitled Christ and Culture. Four men participate in an engaging discussion on the relationship of Christ to culture. Bill Dennison, Darryl Hart, Doug Wilson and Nelson Kloosterman each speak from their unique perspectives.

This series of programs strays from the typical Christ the Center format. This project is an asynchronous debate in the vein of the Four Views on… books published by InterVarsity Press. The listener should be aware that this is a debate and should not be seen as an endorsement for any particular speaker. Please be advised that in future episodes each participant will criticize the other views.

Today the participants address the subject of politics.

Books and other media from the participants

Bill Dennison

Darryl Hart

Nelson Kloosterman

The Ten Commandments: Manual for the Christian Life by Joachim Douma (Kloosterman trans.)

Doug Wilson

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Doug Wilson, Nelson Kloosterman

Christ and Culture: Introductory Remarks

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 05:00:52 -0400

This is part one of a new series entitled Christ and Culture. Four men participate in an engaging discussion on the relationship of Christ to culture. Bill Dennison, Darryl Hart, Doug Wilson and Nelson Kloosterman each speak from their unique perspectives.

This project is an asynchronous debate in the vein of the Four Views on… books published by InterVarsity Press. We recorded each participant independently over the course of three rounds – swapping recordings to the other participants between each round.

This series of programs strays from the typical Christ the Center format. The listener should be aware that this is a debate and should not be seen as an endorsement for any particular speaker. Please be advised that future episodes each participant will criticize the other views.

In the first round, we asked a series of questions under the following headings.

General/Introductory
Politics
Vocation
Education
Fine Arts, Etc.
Theological Undercurrents
- Common Grace
- Natural Law
- Eschatology
Conclusion

This introductory episode includes each participant’s opening and closing comments. The entire series is conveniently grouped under one page.

Books and other media from the participants

Bill Dennison

Darryl Hart

Nelson Kloosterman

The Ten Commandments: Manual for the Christian Life by Joachim Douma (Kloosterman trans.)

Doug Wilson

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Doug Wilson, Nelson Kloosterman

Welcome to a Reformed Church

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 05:00:44 -0400

Camden and Nick speak with Danny Hyde about his new book Welcome to a Reformed Church: A Guide for Pilgrims. Rev. Hyde is pastor of Oceanside United Reformed Church in Oceanside, CA and has written a helpful resource explaining the characteristics of a Reformed church. In this accessible volume, Hyde helps the reader through the historical roots, key doctrines and practices of Reformed churches.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Hyde, Nick Batzig

The Historical Adam

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 05:00:36 -0400

The Christ the Center panel got together recently and discussed whether Adam was a real historical person and whether it matters for our understanding of Scripture and theology as a whole. This is a nearly no holds barred conversation with some interesting audio clips thrown in for fun. While the discussion was fun, the subject is serious business indeed.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig

The Challenges of Urban Ministry

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 05:00:34 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Bill Snodgrass and Erica Bucey to discuss the challenges of urban ministry. Rev. Snodgrass is pastor of Grace Fellowship OPC in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia, PA. Erica serves as the Director of Development at Sunday Breakfast Rescue Mission in Philadelphia. Bill and Erica talk about the particular challenges churches and para-church ministries face in urban contexts and how a reformed theology offers lasting hope in the sovereign God.

Perspectives on Pentecost

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 05:00:54 -0400

Christ the Center revisited with Dr. Richard B. Gaffin, professor of biblical and systematic theology, emeritus, at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, about the significance of Pentecost for redemptive history and the life of the church. Drawing from his book Perspectives on Pentecost and his “Acts and Paul” lecture notes, Dr. Gaffin explained the place of Pentecost as the culmination of that complex of events surrounding the person and work of Jesus Christ which includes his incarnation, death, resurrection, and ascension. Pentecost, then, occurs as part of the accomplishment of redemption and is therefore unrepeatable although its significance and effects reverberate throughout the Christian life. This is a rich biblical theological discussion that will repay frequent rehearsals.

episode photo by knowhimonline

Books by Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig, Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

Counseling Difficult Cases

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:00:46 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the privilege of conversing with Dr. George Scipione, professor of pastoral theology and director of the Biblical Counseling Institute at the Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA about the necessity of pastoral counseling that is biblical. Specifically, discussion was had about hard cases calling for both learning and practical wisdom. Among the many issues raised was the importance of counseling and a proper ecclesiology. Clearly the conversation scratched the surface of this important issue.

Participants: Camden Bucey, George Scipione, Nick Batzig

Theological Prayer

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 05:00:56 -0400

The panel discusses the relationship of theology to prayer by focusing on Colossians. Jim, Nick, and Camden explore Paul’s letter to the church at Colossae and think about the relationship of theology to prayer. Paul’s prayers, especially in the book of Colossians, provide a wonderful example for all believers whether they pray to the Lord in public and private worship.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

The Christian Lover

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 05:00:48 -0400

Michael Haykin, Professor of Church History and Biblical Spirituality at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, speaks about his book The Christian Lover: The Sweetness of Love and Marriage in the Letters of Believers. In the book Haykin collects letters from one or both parties in twelve significant relationships from church history including Luther, Calvin as well as lesser-known figures.

Participants: Michael A.G. Haykin, Nick Batzig

Shepherding Ministry

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 05:00:57 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the privilege of talking with Dr. Tim Witmer, professor of practical theology, coordinator of the PT department, and supervisor of the mentored ministry program at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia as well as pastor of Crossroads Community Church (PCA) in Upper Darby, PA, about his new book, The Shepherd Leader: Achieving Effective Shepherding in Your Church (P&R). The discussion revolved around the importance of formal and informal shepherding in the church by pastors and elders (and assisted by deacons) so that all members of a congregation are cared for. The book and the related courses at WTS stem from Dr. Witmer’s doctoral work at Reformed Theological Seminary and his extensive church planting and revitalization experience. This program demonstrates that sound doctrine produces sound practice.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jason Pickard, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, Tim Witmer

The Task of the Preacher

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 05:00:04 -0400

John Currie, Lecturer in Practical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary, discusses the challenges involved and the task of preaching. Rev. Currie is also Director of Alumni Relations and Educational Advancement at Westminster and formerly pastored Cornerstone Orthodox Presbtyerian Church in Ambler, PA. This episode retains much value for the listeners of sermons as well. The task of the preacher and the characteristics of a faithful sermon are things every believer ought to be familiar with.

episode photo provided by itspaulkelly

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, John Currie

Caspar Olevianus and the Apostle’s Creed

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 05:00:24 -0400

R. Scott Clark visits Christ the Center again to speak about Caspar Olevianus’ An Exposition of the Apostle’s Creed. Dr. Clark is Professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Westminster Seminary California. He is the author and editor of several books and is also the host of Office Hours.

Books

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Nick Batzig, R. Scott Clark

Meet the Puritans

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 05:00:40 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Dr. Joel Beeke to discuss Meet the Puritans, which he wrote with Randall J. Pederson. This volume is a wonderful collection of short biographies as well as a guide to modern reprints of many Puritan theologians. Dr. Beeke serves as President and Professor of Systematic Theology, Church History, and Homiletics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and brings a wealth of knowledge to this episode.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Joel Beeke, Nick Batzig

Pastoral Ministry: Learning or Doing?

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 05:00:07 -0400

Is pastoral ministry about the pastor studying and learning in order to better teach his congregation or is the ministry primarily about doing, that is, caring for the sheep in very practical, tangible ways? Christ the Center tackles what we see as a false dichotomy as the panel talks about how the pastor’s study affects the practical aspects of ministry.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Listener Co-Hosts

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 05:00:30 -0400

As we continue our celebration of the new year, we speak with listeners on our first listener co-host show.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig

Highlights from 2009

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 05:00:21 -0400

Continuing the Christ the Center New Year tradition, Jeff and Camden play highlight clips from 2009.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington

Galatians

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 05:00:58 -0400

Christ the Center was pleased to speak with David B. McWilliams about his commentary on Galatians. Pastor McWilliams has been the Senior Pastor at Covenant for most of the last 20 years. David’s passions are Christ centered preaching, applying theology to the life of the church, and shepherding people. Join us for a great discussion on Paul’s letter to the Galatians.

Counterfeit Gods

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 05:00:06 -0400

Christ the Center recently interviewed Rev. Tim Keller, pastor of Redeemer PCA in Manhattan, about his most recent book Counterfeit Gods: The Empty Promises of Money, Sex, and Power, and the Only Hope that Matters. The panel discussed the nature of sin as idolatry and how such things as money, sex, and power, vie for God’s rightful place in the human heart. Pastor Keller provided powerful insights into the nature of idolatry and how the human heart really is deceitful. This was a very fruitful discussion.

Participants: Jeff Waddington, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig, Tim Keller

The 100th Episode

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 05:00:53 -0400

While celebrating the 100th episode, Jeff, Jim, Camden and friends engage in an open forum. The conversation begins with a discussion of Westminster Theological Seminary and admissions, then quickly charts a course to “punchy” territory. Listen to the participants debate the issues of what it means to be “Reformed” and the eschatology of credo-baptism.

Participants: Bob LaRocca, Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Jonathan Brack

Bioethics

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 05:00:25 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the privilege of conversing with Dr. David VanDrunen, the Robert B. Strimple professor of systematic theology and ethics at Westminster Seminary in California, about his new book published by Crossway entitled Bioethics and the Christian Life: A Guide to Making Difficult Decisions. The panel talked about the rise in the importance of bioethics with the advances in contemporary medical technology and procedures. Dr. VanDrunen stressed the necessity of Scripture and godly wisdom (as seen, for instance, in Proverbs) in dealing with these matters. The challenges of “beginning of life” (abortion, in-vitro fertilization) and “end of life” (euthanasia, physician assisted suicide) issues were discussed at length. Especially helpful was the brief discussion about the difference between actively seeking to end someone’s life and withholding heroic measures, with particular attention paid to the question of withholding nutrition. This is a thoughtful and very practical episode.

A God-Centered Approach to Language

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 05:00:12 -0400

Dr. Vern Sheridan Poythress returns to Christ the Center to discuss his latest book In the Beginning was the Word: Language: A God-Centered Approach to Language published by Crossway. The panel discusses Dr. Poythress’s multi-perspectival approach to Biblical studies and theology and specifically the trinitarian basis for language and the meaning of language. Contrary to evolutionary theory, language is not merely a humanly constructed reality but is a gift from God. The panel also considers the unique problems about how modernism and postmodernism view language

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig, Vern Poythress

Christian Essentialism

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:37 -0400

K. Scott Oliphint returns to Christ the Center to discuss God’s attributes. Understanding God as He is related to creation is no doubt a complicated task. Traditionally, theologians have spoken of God’s attributes using the communicable/incommunicable distinction. While this remains a helpful distinction, Oliphint presents another distinction more closely tied to covenantal theology. Dr. Oliphint is Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Westmister Theological Seminary and is the author of Reasons for Faith: Philosophy in the Service of Theology.

Participants: Camden Bucey, K. Scott Oliphint, Nick Batzig

Credo-Baptism During the Reformation

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 05:00:20 -0400

When approaching the question of credo-baptism during the Reformation, James Dolezal argues for viewing three distinct categories: Anabaptists, general baptists, and particular baptists. The theological differences between these groups are as great as the differences among all forms of paedo-baptism. As such, it is important to trace these three groups separately throughout the Reformation. This informative discussion chronicles this history and concludes with a friendly debate on the issue of credo-baptism from a covenantal position. For credo- and paedo-baptists alike, this discussion will be both engaging and insightful.

Bibliography

Belyea, G. “Origins of the Particular Baptists.” Themelios. 32, no. 3 (2007): 40-67.

Klaassen, Walter. Anabaptism in Outline: Selected Primary Sources. Kitchener Ont. Scottdale Pa.: Herald Press, 1981.

Renihan, James. True Confessions: Baptist Documents in the Reformed Family. Owensboro Ky.: RBAP, 2004.

White, B. The English Baptists of the Seventeenth Century. London: Baptist Historical Society, 1983.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Nick Batzig

Sacrifices and Festivals in the Old Testament

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:00:17 -0400

The old Christ the Center crew met with Dr. Ben Shaw, associate professor of Hebrew and Old Testament at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in one of those Carolinas, to converse about the Christological basis of the Old Testament sacrifices and festivals. It was a fascinating and enriching discussion about biblical hermeneutics and biblical theology, typology and eschatology, and the forward looking nature of Old Testament religion. Old Testament saints while saved in the same way as New Testament saints, lived with a sense of incompleteness and longing that would only be fulfilled with the coming of Jesus Christ.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

Luther and Media

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 05:00:34 -0400

Given that Reformation Day is near, we thought it would be time to focus our attention on the monk with the mallet. Carl Trueman, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of Historical Theology and Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary speaks about Martin Luther and media. Luther’s is an interesting study in the effects of media on the church. Trueman discusses Luther’s context and draws parallels to the contemporary church. All the way from the printing press to Twitter, join us for a fascinating discussion on a timely subject.

Books by Carl Trueman

Church Membership

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 05:00:30 -0400

The Christ the Center panel met with Dr. Guy Waters, associate professor of NT at RTS/Jackson, about the importance of membership in a local congregation. The biblical basis for church membership was explored along with its connection to mutual support, discipline and observance of baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Also discussed was the significance of the non-communicant/communicant member distinction. It was noted that aversion to local church membership among Christians is a relatively recent phenomenon and so this proved to be a very practical conversation.

photo is by claudio_ar [CC BY-NC-SA 2.0]

Paul’s Two-Age Construction and Apologetics

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 05:00:39 -0400

Bill Dennison returns to Christ the Center to bring the fire about the eschatological structure of Paul’s thought and its relation to apologetics. Dr. Dennison has written a wonderful book title Paul’s Two-Age Construction and Apologetics which was originally his ThM thesis at Westminster Theological Seminary. This is a fantastic discussion regarding the interconnectedness of the theological encyclopedia.

Dr. Dennison is Professor of Interdisciplinary Studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA as well as Visiting Professor of Apologetics and Systematic Theology at Northwest Theological Seminary. In addition to the book which is the topic of discussion today, Bill has authored The Young Bultmann: Context for His Understanding of God, 1884-1925 and A Christian Approach to Interdisciplinary Studies: In Search of a Method and Starting Point.

Bibliography

Dennison, William D. Paul’s Two-Age Construction and Apologetics. Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2000.

—. A Christian Approach to Interdisciplinary Studies: in Search of a Method and Starting Point. Eugene Or.: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2007.

—. The Young Bultmann: Context for His Understanding of God,1884-1925. American university studies. New York: P. Lang, 2008.

Oliphint, K. Scott, and Lane G. Tipton. Revelation and Reason: New Essays in Reformed Apologetics. 1st ed. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2007.

Tipton, Lane G., and Jeffrey C. Waddington. Resurrection and Eschatology: Theology in Service of the Church : Essays in Honor of Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

Other Formats

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

William Perkins and the Development of Puritan Preaching

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 05:00:24 -0400

Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr. visits Christ the Center to speak about William Perkins’ role in the development of Puritan preaching. Pipa argues that Perkins’ overall influence and his book The Arte of Prophecying were significant factors in shifting the dominant Puritan model for preaching.

Bibliography

Perkins, William. The Art of Prophecying, or, A treatise concerning the sacred and only true manner and method of preaching. London: Printed by Iohn Legatt, 1631.

Pipa, Jr. Joseph A. Root and Branch. Evangelical Press, 1997.

â€”â€”â€”. The Covenant. Southern Presbyterian Press, 2005.

â€”â€”â€”. The Lord’s Day. Christian Focus, 1996.

â€”â€”â€”.Westminster Confession Of Faith Study Book: A Study Guide for Churches. Christian Focus, 2005.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Joseph A. Pipa, Jr., Nick Batzig

Restoration Prophecy in Ezra-Nehemiah

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 05:00:48 -0400

The Christ the Center corporal’s guard spoke with Matthew Patton, PhD student in biblical studies at Wheaton College Graduate School in Wheaton, IL about his paper “Searching for a Truly Repentant Israel: Ezra-Nehemiah and Restoration Prophecy.” A very fascinating discussion was had about such things as the already/not yet eschatology of Ezra-Nehemiah and how even though Israel was back in the land, they had not returned from exile. The significance of typology was also addressed. One of the strengths of Matt’s research is that he shows the intertexuality of the various parts of the Bible. This paper particularly highlights Nehemiah’s prayer and his citations and allusions to Leviticus, Deuteronomy, and 1st Kings. This discussion augers well for future in-depth biblical theological and exegetical conversations.

order Nehemiah and the Wall by Justin Gerard from 12 Stone Art

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Matthew Patton

The Doctrine of Assurance

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 05:00:10 -0400

Burk Parsons visits Christ the Center to discuss two books he has edited. A majority of the discussion centers on Assured by God: Living in the Fullness of God’s Grace, a wonderful collection of contributions on the reformed doctrine of assurance. Burk explains the importance of the doctrine for the Christian life.

The second book is John Calvin: A Heart for Devotion, Doctrine, and Doxology, another great book about the great reformer. This book stands out from the multitude of recent Calvin titles in that it was written for the layperson. Listen to Burk speak about these two books.

Bibliography

Beeke, Joel. The Quest for Full Assurance: The Legacy of Calvin and His Successors. Edinburgh; Carlisle Pa.: Banner of Truth, 1999.

Parsons, Burk, ed. Assured by God: Living in the Fullness of God’s Grace. Phillipsburg N.J.: P & R Pub., 2006.

—. John Calvin: A Heart for Devotion, Doctrine, and Doxology. Lake Mary, FL: Reformation Trust, 2008.

Ryle, J. C. Holiness: Its Nature, Hindrances, Difficulties, and Roots. Cambridge Eng.: J. Clarke, 1956.

Other Formats

photo by Scott Ingram Photography
http://www.flickr.com/photos/scingram/ / CC BY-NC 2.0

Participants: Burk Parsons, Camden Bucey, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig

New Testament Theology

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 05:00:35 -0400

Christ the Center was pleased to welcome Dr. Thomas R. Schreiner to discuss New Testament Theology: Magnifying God in Christ. Dr. Schreiner’s book has been warmly welcomed by many respected scholars in the reformed community and listeners will understand why when they hear Dr. Schreiner detail his project.

Bibliography

Ridderbos, Herman. The Coming of the Kingdom. Edinburgh: Christian World Publications, 1979.

Schreiner, Thomas R. New Testament Theology: Magnifying God in Christ. Baker Academic, 2008.

Vos, Geerhardus. Biblical Theology. New Ed. Banner of Truth, 1975.

â€”â€”â€”. Pauline Eschatology. P & R Publishing, 1979.

â€”â€”â€”. The Eschatology of the Old Testament. P & R Publishing, 2001.

â€”â€”â€”. The Kingdom of God and the Church. Presbyterian & Reformed Pub Co, 1972.

Vos, Geerhardus, and Richard B., Jr. Gaffin. Redemptive History and Biblical Interpretation: The Shorter Writings of Geerhardus Vos. P & R Publishing, 2001.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig, Tom Schreiner

The Masculine Mandate

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 05:00:10 -0400

Richard D. Phillips visits Christ the Center to discuss his new book The Masculine Mandate: God’s Calling to Men. The book is a reaction to recent cultural trends as well as John Eldredge’s mega-hit Wild at Heart. Much more than a simple reaction, Rev. Phillips promotes a positive, biblical approach to masculinity by touching on biblical anthropology and God’s specific call that men should “work” and “keep.”

Rick is Senior Minister of Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC and the author of several books including Jesus the Evangelist, What’s So Great About the Doctrines of Grace?, and the Hebrews and Zechariah Reformed Expository commentaries.

Bibliography

Eldredge, John. Wild at Heart: Discovering the Passionate Soul of a Man. Nashville Tenn.: T. Nelson, 2001.

Phillips, Richard D. Hebrews. Reformed expository commentary. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 2006.

â€”â€”â€”. Jesus the Evangelist: Learning to Share the Gospel From the Book of John. Lake Mary, FL: Reformation Trust Pub., 2007.

â€”â€”â€”. The Masculine Mandate: God’s Calling to Men. Lake Mary Fla.: Reformation Trust Pub., 2009.

â€”â€”â€”. What’s So Great About the Doctrines of Grace? Lake Mary FL: Reformation Trust Pub., 2008.

â€”â€”â€”. Saved by Grace: The Glory of Salvation in Ephesians 2. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 2009.

â€”â€”â€”. Zechariah. P & R Publishing, 2007.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig, Rick Phillips

Loving the Church

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 05:00:55 -0400

Christ the Center had the pleasure of interviewing Ted Kluck, author and athlete, about his recent publication, Why We Love the Church: In Praise of Institutions and Organized Religion, co-authored with Kevin DeYoung and published by Moody Press. We discussed the recent wave of books, blogs, articles, and interviews calling for the rejection of the institutional church in favor of an individualistic Christianity. Ted explained that while we may experience frustration with our churches from time to time, that rejecting them is no option for the Biblical Christian. The panel also conversed about the relationship of this trend to the emerging church phenomenon, a topic Ted and Kevin DeYoung touched upon in their previous book Why We Are Not Emergent. God created the church and it cannot be so easily dispensed with.

Bibliography

Carson, D. A. Becoming Conversant with the Emergent Church: Understanding a Movement and its Implications. Grand Rapids Mich.: Zondervan, 2005.

DeYoung, Kevin and Ted Kluck. Why We Love the Church: In Praise of Institutions and Organized Religion. Chicago IL: Moody Publishers, 2009.

â€”â€”â€”. Why We’re Not Emergent: By Two Guys Who Should Be. Chicago: Moody Publishers, 2008.

Kluck, Ted. Facing Tyson: Fifteen Fighters, Fifteen Stories. Guilford Conn.: The Lyons Press, 2006.

â€”â€”â€”. Headlocks and Dropkicks: A Butt-kicking Ride Through the World of Professional Wrestling. Santa Barbara Calif.: Praeger Publishers, 2009.

â€”â€”â€”. Paper Tiger: One Athlete’s Journey to the Underbelly of Pro Football. Guilford CT: Lyons Press, 2007.

Viola, Frank and George Barna. Pagan Christianity?: Exploring the Roots of our Church Practices. [Ill.].: Barna Books, 2008.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Ted Kluck

The New Shape of World Christianity

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 05:00:02 -0400

Mark A. Noll discusses his latest book The New Shape of World Christianity: How American Experience Reflects Global Faith. Dr. Noll is Francis A. McAnaney Professor of History at the University of Notre Dame. In addition to Dr. Noll, Christ the Center was pleased to welcome back Darryl G. Hart. Hart has written several books including A Secular Faith: Why Christianity Favors the Separation of Church and State and Deconstructing Evangelicalism: Conservative Protestantism in the Age of Billy Graham.

The main point of the book is that American Christianity is important for the world primarily because the world is coming more and more to look like America. Noll argues that the key to understanding the new shape of global Christianity lies in understanding the shifts and changes Christianity underwent when it moved from Europe to America. Noll focuses on three main factors:

What happened in the US in the late 18th c.
The voluntary element of the great mission work
The type of faith that resulted.

Bibliography

Berry, Wendell. What are People For?: Essays. San Francisco: North Point Press, 1990.

Hart, D. G. Deconstructing Evangelicalism: Conservative Protestantism in the Age of Billy Graham. Grand Rapids MI: Baker Academic, 2004.

â€”â€”â€”. A Secular Faith: Why Christianity Favors the Separation of Church and State. Ivan R. Dee, Publisher, 2006.

Hart, D. G., and John R. Muether. Seeking a Better Country: 300 Years of American Presbyterianism. P & R Publishing, 2007.

Jenkins, Philip. The Next Christendom: The Coming of Global Christianity. Rev Exp. Oxford University Press, USA, 2007.

Kalu, Ogbu. African Pentecostalism: An Introduction. Oxford University Press, USA, 2008.

Noll, Mark A. A History of Christianity in the United States and Canada. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1992.

â€”â€”â€”. America’s God: From Jonathan Edwards to Abraham Lincoln. New Ed. Oxford University Press, USA, 2005.

â€”â€”â€”. God and Race in American Politics: A Short History. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press, 2008.

â€”â€”â€”. The New Shape of World Christianity: How American Experience Reflects Global Faith. Downers Grove Ill.: IVP Academic, 2009.

â€”â€”â€”. The Old Religion in a New World: The History of North American Christianity. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2001.

Protestantism and Politics in Korea. Univ of Washington Pr, 2009.

Sanneh, Lamin O. Disciples of All Nations: Pillars of World Christianity. 1st ed. Oxford University Press, USA, 2007.

â€”â€”â€”. Whose Religion Is Christianity?: The Gospel beyond the West. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2003.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Darryl G. Hart, Mark A. Noll

Truth and Error in the Church

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 05:00:32 -0400

The Christ the Center panelists revisit with Rev. Martin Downes, minister of Christ Church Deeside in north Wales, about his new book Risking the Truth: Handling Error in the Church (Christian Focus). The nature of error and heresy is delineated and the best approach to handling it pastorally in the life of the local congregation and in the larger church is discussed at length. The interview format of the book is also considered. This is an enjoyable conversation about perennial issues in the life of the church.
Archive.org

Bibliography

Allison, C. The Cruelty of Heresy: An Affirmation of Christian Orthodoxy. Harrisburg PA: Moorehouse Pub., 1994.

Charnock, Stephen. Selections from the Discourses of S. Charnock, B.D. on the existence and attributes of God. With a memoir. London, 1878.

Downes, Martin. Risking the Truth. Christian Focus, 2009.

Hall, Michael. Contextualization or Heresy in the Evangelical Megashift? Testing New Model Theology in Light of Doctrinal Criticism, 1997.

Smeaton, George. Christ’s Doctrine of the Atonement. 1st ed. Edinburgh; Carlisle Pa.: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1991.

Stott, John. The Cross of Christ. England: Inter-Varsity Press, 2006.

Other Formats

photo by Martin Finlayson http://www.flickr.com/photos/martin_finlayson/ / CC BY-SA 2.0

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Martin Downes

The Theology of Samuel Rutherford

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 05:00:29 -0400

The panelists of Christ the Center recently talked with Rev. Dr. Guy Richard, senior minister of First Presbyterian Church (PCA) of Gulfport, MS, about his new study, The Supremacy of God in the Theology of Samuel Rutherford, published by Paternoster/Wipf & Stock. The historical context of the rising tide of Arminianism in Scotland in the 17th century was discussed as was the substance of Rutherford’s polemics, especially his (as yet untranslated) work Examen Arminianismi. Also discussed was the relationship of this study to the Calvin vs the Calvinists debate and Rutherford’s contribution to the developing Reformed political philosophy with his Lex, Rex. The panel concluded with a discussion of the contemporary significance of Rutherford’s theology. All in all, a very rewarding conversation.

Bibliography

Guy Richard on “The Supremacy of God in the Theology of Samuel Rutherford” – Reformation21 Blog. http://www.reformation21.org/blog/2008/12/guy-richard-on-the-supremacy-o.php.

Owen, John. The death of death in the death of Christ : a treatise in which the whole controversy about universal redemption is fully discussed. London: Banner Of Truth Trust, 1959.

Rhetorfors, Samuel. Examen Arminianismi. Ultrajecti: Smytegelt, 1668.

Richard, Guy. â€œSamuel Rutherford’s supralapsarianism revealed: a key to the lapsarian position of the Westminster Confession of Faith? Scottish Journal of Theology 59, no. 1 (February 1, 2006): 27-44.

_____. The supremacy of God in the theology of Samuel Rutherford. Milton Keynes U.K.; Colorado Springs Colo.: Paternoster, 2008.

Rutherford, Samuel. A peaceable and temperate plea for Pauls presbyterie in Scotland, or, A modest and brotherly dispute of the government of the Church of Scotland wherein our discipline is demonstrated to be the true. London: Printed for Iohn Bartlet …, 1642.

_____. Letters of Samuel Rutherford: a selection. London: Banner of Truth Trust, 1973.

_____. Lex, Rex: the law and the prince. London: printed for John Field, 1644.

Samuel Rutherford for the 21st Century – Reformation21 http://www.reformation21.org/articles/samuel-rutherford-for-the-21st-century.php.

Samuel Rutherford for the 21st Century Part II – Reformation21 http://www.reformation21.org/articles/samuel-rutherford-for-the-21st-century-part-ii.php.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Guy Richard, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The Life and Thought of Lemuel Haynes

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 05:00:32 -0400

Thabiti Anyabwile, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Grand Cayman joins the panel to discuss Lemuel Haynes and black theology. Anyabwile has edited May We Meet in the Heavenly World, a book of Haynes writings which includes a helpful biography. Haynes (1753-1833) was an influential African-American pastor during the American Revolution. He was a devoted Calvinist who argued against slavery through the lens of God’s providence. Haynes was a well-known preacher and writer during his lifetime, but unfortunately, many have forgotten him in recent years. Join us for an interesting discussion of the life and thought of Lemuel Haynes.

Bibliography

Anyabwile, Thabiti. The Decline of African American Theology: From Biblical Faith to Cultural Captivity. Downers Grove Ill.: IVP Academic, 2007.

—. The Faithful Preacher: Recapturing the Vision of Three Pioneering African-American Pastors. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2006.

Haynes, Lemuel. Black Preacher to White America: The Collected Writings of Lemuel Haynes, 1774-1833. Brooklyn N.Y.: Carlson Pub., 1990.

—. May We Meet in the Heavenly World: The Piety of Lemuel Haynes. Grand Rapids Mich.: Reformation Heritage Books, 2009.

Saillant, John,. Black Puritan, Black Republican the Life and Thought of Lemuel Haynes, 1753-1833. Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 2003.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig, Thabiti Anyabwile

Foreign Missions and Special Office

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 05:00:30 -0400

Divergent approaches to foreign missions have been employed for centuries. Disagreements over various approaches have been at the heart of many historic events in modern church history. Indeed, one such disagreement was critical to the founding of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Christ the Center was pleased to welcome Mark Bube and Doug Clawson, General Secretary and Associate General Secretary, respectively, of the Committee on Foreign Missions for the OPC. Mark and Doug detail the OPC’s specific views regarding foreign missions. They touch upon the reformed standards, catechesis and, most notably, the importance of church government and special office. Join us for a stimulating discussion that will stimulate you to think critically about the work of the Great Commission regardless of denominational affiliation.

Bibliography

Piper, John. Let the Nations Be Glad! 2nd Edition. 2nd ed. Baker Academic, 2003.

Young, John. Missions: The Biblical Motive and Aim. Pittsburgh PA: Crown & Covenant Publications, 2007.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Doug Clawson, Jeff Waddington, Mark Bube

The Regulative Principle of Worship

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 05:00:51 -0400

Derek Thomas joins Josh Walker and Nick Batzig to discuss the regulative principle of worship. Derek Thomas is the John E. Richards Professor of Systematic and Practical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi. He is also the minister of teaching at First Presbyterian Church in Jackson, Mississippi.
Archive.org

Participants: Derek Thomas, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig

The Importance of the Original Languages

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 05:00:21 -0400

Miles Van Pelt, Associate Professor of Old Testament and Academic Dean at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS speaks about the importance of the original languages for biblical study. Miles has helped produce several popular books and resources for original language study including Basics of Biblical Hebrew and Vocabulary Guide to Biblical Hebrew. Dr. Van Pelt encourages pastors and scholars to a renewed sense of the importance and efficacy of biblical study in Greek and Hebrew.
Archive.org

photo by nyello8

Bibliography

Machen, J. New Testament Greek for Beginners. 2nd ed. Upper Saddle River N.J.: Pearson/Prentice Hall, 2004.

Pratico, Gary and Miles Van Pelt. Basics of Biblical Hebrew Grammar: Workbook. Grand Rapids MI: Zondervan, 2001.

Van Pelt, Miles. Charts of Biblical Hebrew. Grand Rapids Mich.: Zondervan, 2007.

â€”â€”â€”. Graded Reader of Biblical Hebrew: A Guide to Reading the Hebrew Bible. Grand Rapids Mich.: Zondervan, 2006.

â€”â€”â€”. The Vocabulary Guide to Biblical Hebrew. Grand Rapids Mich.: Zondervan, 2003.

Weingreen, J. A Practical Grammar for Classical Hebrew. Oxford: The Clarendon Press, 1939.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Josh Walker, Miles Van Pelt, Nick Batzig

The Rule of Love

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 05:00:38 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the pleasure of revisiting Rev. Dr. John Fesko, now the academic dean and associate professor of systematic theology at Westminster Seminary California, abut his new Reformation Heritage Books volume, The Rule of Love: Broken, Fulfilled, and Applied. Fesko explains how the Christian is to understand and appropriate the Ten Commandments. The role of the law in the history of redemption as well as its place in redemption’s application is discussed. At the end of the day, Christ is the lens through which we are to read and contemplate the law.

Thanks to Reformation Heritage Books for offering discounts to our our listeners.

Bibliography

Estelle, Bryan D., J. V. Fesko, and David VanDrunen. The Law is Not of Faith: Essays on Works and Grace in the Mosaic Covenant. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2009.

Fesko, J. Justification: Understanding the Classic Reformed Doctrine. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

â€”â€”â€”. The Rule of Love: Broken, Fulfilled, and Applied. Grand Rapids Mich.: Reformation Heritage Books, 2009.

Kline, Meredith G. Kingdom Prologue: Genesis Foundations for a Covenantal Worldview. Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2006.

Vos, Geerhardus. Biblical Theology. New Ed. Banner of Truth, 1975.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, John Fesko, Nick Batzig

God’s Mighty Acts in the Old Testament

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 05:00:21 -0400

Christ the Center is pleased to welcome Dr. Richard C. Gamble to talk about volume one of his systematic theology. Many people have looked forward to The Whole Counsel of God v.1: God’s Mighty Acts in the Old Testament and the panel had the pleasure of discussing the influences and aims of this great book. Dr. Gamble incorporates the best of the reformed tradition into a highly enjoyable biblical-systematic theology.
Archive.org

Bibliography

Edwards, Jonathan. A History of the Work of Redemption. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1989.

Gamble, Richard C. The Whole Counsel Of God. Presbyterian & Reformed Pub Co, 2008.

Jones, Charles. The History of the Church of God During the Period of Revelation. New York: Scribner, 1867.

Owen, John, and W. H. Goold. The Works of John Owen. London: Banner of Truth Trust, 1965.

Reymond, Robert. A New Systematic Theology of the Christian Faith. Nashville: T. Nelson, 1998.

Vos, Geerhardus. Biblical Theology. New Ed. Banner of Truth, 1975.

â€”â€”â€”. Dogmatiek, 1910.

Waltke, Bruce. An Old Testament Theology: An Exegetical, Canonical, and Thematic Approach. 1st ed. Grand Rapids Mich.: Zondervan, 2007.

Wills, Gregory. Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, 1859-2009. New York: Oxford University Press, 2009.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig, Richard C. Gamble

Thomas Aquinas

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:00:42 -0400

Christ the Center discusses some aspects of the life and thought of Medieval theologian Thomas Aquinas. Specifically Thomas’ doctrine of God and the nature/grace distinction come in for consideration. Especially useful is the discussion of the nature of Scholasticism and what value there is in reading Thomas. At the end of the day, the lesson is, do not throw the baby out with the bathwater.

Bibliography

Kretzmann, Norman. The Cambridge companion to Aquinas. Cambridge; New York NY USA: Cambridge University Press, 1993.

McInerny, Ralph. Aquinas. Oxford: Polity, 2003.

Stump, Eleonore. Aquinas. London; New York: Routledge, 2003.

Thomas. An exposition of the On the hebdomads of Boethius. Washington D.C.: Catholic University of America Press, 2001.

_____. Aquinas scripture series. Commentary on Saint Paul’s Epistle to the Galatians. Albany N.Y.: Magi Books, 1966.

_____. On evil : disputed questions. Notre Dame Ind.; New York: University of Notre Dame Press; Wiley, 2002.

_____. On love and charity : readings from the Commentary on the sentences of Peter Lombard. Washington D.C.: Catholic University of America Press, 2008.

_____. St. Thomas Aquinas on politics and ethics : a new translation, backgrounds, interpretations. 1st ed. New York: Norton, 1988.

_____. St. Thomas Aquinas Summa theologiÃ¦. New York: McGraw-Hill, 1967.

_____. Summa contra gentiles Saint Thomas Aquinas. Notre Dame Ind.: University of Notre Dame Press, 1975.

_____. The commentary of St. Thomas Aquinas on Aristotle’s Treatise on the soul. [St. Paul Minn.]: College of St. Thomas, 1946.

_____. Thomas Aquinas : disputed questions on the virtues. Cambridge; New York: Cambridge University Press, 2005.

Other Formats

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington

Calvin as a Servant of the Word of God

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 05:00:00 -0400

In honor of John Calvin’s 500th anniversary, the General Assembly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church held a pre-Assembly conference on the subject of John Calvin. The Rev. Dr. Richard B. Gaffin of Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, spoke on Calvin’s soteriology. The Rev. Glen J. Clary, pastor of Immanuel Orthodox Presbyterian Church, West Collingswood, New Jersey spoke on Calvin as a servant of the Word of God.

Christ the Center had the privilege of welcoming Glen to the panel to discuss his lecture topic. Join us for an interesting discussion of Calvin’s theology of preaching touching on its authority, the presence of Christ, and worship.

Christ the Center is listener supported. To read more about how you can help Reformed Forum cover the cost of producing this program, please visit http://reformedforum.org/support.

Bibliography

Calvin, John. Calvin: Theological Treatises. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1954.

—. Sermons on the Acts of the Apostles: Chapters 1-7. Edinburgh: Banner Of Truth Trust, 2008.

—. Sermons on Genesis: Chapters 1-11. Banner Of Truth Trust, 2009.

Lawson, Steven. The Expository Genius of John Calvin. Lake Mary FL: Reformation Trust Pub., 2006.

Parker, Thomas. Calvin’s Preaching. 1st ed. Louisville Ky.: Westminster/J. Knox Press, 1992.

—. The Oracles of God: An Introduction to the Preaching of John Calvin. London [u.a.]: Lutterworth Press, 1947.

Preaching. Dyer Ind.: Mid-America Reformed Seminary, 1999.

Wallace, Ronald. Calvin’s Doctrine of the Word and Sacrament. Grand Rapids: W.B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 1957.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy

A Comparison of Rahnerian to Reformed Apologetics

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 05:00:10 -0400

Christ the Center discusses the theology of the influential Roman Catholic Karl Rahner. Rahner’s theology is a composite of Kantian, Hegelian and Heideggerian philosophies. The panel discusses these philosophic influences and compares Rahner’s approach to apologetics with a Reformed approach – particularly the system taught by Cornelius Van Til. This episode will prove useful not only for the philosophically-minded apologist but also for anyone interested in seeing the influence of one’s theological system upon apologetic methodology. The discussion may also help listeners to realize that much of modern Roman Catholic theology is quite different from that which was taught during the Reformation.

This episode is brought to you in part by The Confessional Presbyterian, a journal for discussion of Presbyterian doctrine and practice.

This discussion follows the structure of Camden Bucey’s recent paper entitled A Reformed Critique of the Role of Natural Law in Rahnerian Apologetics which won the 2009 Greene Prize in Apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary. Ten years ago, Jeff Waddington won the same award for his paper Worldviews Collide: The Unapologetic Apologetic of Abraham Kuyper.

Bibliography

Kilby, Karen. Rahner: Theology and Philosophy. London; New York: Routledge, 2004.

Livingston, James C., Francis Schussler Fiorenza, Sarah Coakley, and James H., Jr. Evans. Modern Christian Thought: The Twentieth Century. 2nd ed. Fortress Press, 2006.

Marmion, Declan., and Mary E. Hines. The Cambridge Companion to Karl Rahner. Cambridge companions to religion. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2005.

Rahner, Karl. Foundations of Christian Faith: An Introduction to the Idea of Christianity. New York: Seabury Press, 1978.

Hearers of the Word. [New York: Herder and Herder, 1969.]

Spirit in the World. [New York: Herder and Herder, 1968.]

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

Apologetics and Pastoral Ministry

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 06:00:15 -0400

Nick Batzig sat down with David Robertson pastor of St. Peters Free Church in Dundee, Scotland recently at Twin Lakes Fellowship where he lectured on Emergent Calvinism. David spoke with Nick about his book The Dawkins Letters: Challenging Atheist Myths. David has been actively debating Dawkins supporters throughout the UK and shares his experience. This is an interesting discussion about how apologetics hits the road. Later on, Nick asks David about Awakening: The Life and Ministry of Robert Murray McCheyne another excellent book detailing the life of the well-known minister.

Archive.org

Participants: David Robertson, Nick Batzig

Scripture and Doctrine in the Church

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 05:00:14 -0400

Our doctrine of Scripture is extremely important and drives the discussion of practically all other topics. Since we hold Scripture to be our principium cognoscendi externum it is our rule by which we are to judge and interpret all other truth. There are, however, many issues surrounding the role of Scripture and our understanding of it, particularly as they relate to life in the church. The panel discusses issues such as dogmatism and multi-perspectivalism as they debate and engage these issues.

This episode is brought to you in part by the Confessional Presbyterian.

Panel

Jeff Waddington
Nick Batzig
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Alexander, T. Desmond. From Eden to the New Jerusalem: Exploring God’s Plan for Life on Earth. Nottingham, England: Inter-Varsity Press, 2008.

Ambrosiaster. Commentaries on Romans and 1-2 Corinthians. Downers Grove Ill.: IVP Academic, 2009.

Ancient Christian Doctrine Set. Ivp Academic, 2009.

Berg, M. Friends of Calvin. English ed. Grand Rapids Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2009.

Calvin, Jean. The Piety of John Calvin: A Collection of His Spiritual Prose, Poems, and Hymns. [New ed.]. Phillipsburg N.J.: P & R Pub., 2009.

Calvin, John. Institutes of the Christian Religion 1541 French Edition. Eerdmans Pub Co, 2009.

Downes, Martin. Risking the Truth. Christian Focus, 2009.

Driscoll, Mark. Religion Saves: And Nine Other Misconceptions. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Edgar, William, and K. Scott Oliphint. Christian Apologetics Past and Present: A Primary Source Reader. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Ferguson, Everett. Baptism in the Early Church: History, Theology, and Liturgy in the First Five Centuries. Cambridge U.K. ; Grand Rapids Mich.: W.B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2009.

Frame, John. The Doctrine of the Knowledge of God. Phillipsburg N.J.: Presbyterian and Reformed Pub. Co., 1987.

Hall, David. Calvin in the Public Square: Liberal Democracies, Rights, and Civil Liberties. Phillipsburg N.J.: P & R Pub., 2009.

Machen, J. Gresham. Christianity and Liberalism, New Ed. Eerdmans Pub Co, 2009.

Nettles, Tom. James Petigru Boyce: A Southern Baptist statesman. Phillipsburg N.J.: P & R Pub., 2009.

Noll, Mark. The New Shape of World Christianity: How American Experience Reflects Global Faith. Downers Grove Ill.: IVP Academic, 2009.

Oden, Thomas. Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. Downers Grove Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1998.

Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture. Downers Grove IL: InterVarsity Press, 2001.

Peterson, David. The Acts of the Apostles. Grand Rapids Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2009.

Poythress, Vern S. God-Centered Biblical Interpretation. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 1999.

Redeeming Science: A God-Centered Approach. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2006.

Symphonic Theology: The Validity of Multiple Perspectives in Theology. P & R Publishing, 2001.

The Returning King: A Guide to the Book of Revelation. P & R Publishing, 2000. Understanding Dispensationalists. 2nd ed. P & R Publishing, 1993.

Ryken, Philip Graham. Luke. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 2009.

Stellman, Jason. Dual Citizens: Worship and Life Between the Already and the Not Yet. Lake Mary FL: Reformation Trust Pub., 2009.

Storms, C. Pleasures Evermore: The Life-Changing Power of Enjoying God. Colorado Springs Colo.: NavPress, 2000.

Sweeney, Douglas. Jonathan Edwards and the Ministry of the Word: A Model of Faith and Thought. Downers Grove Ill.: IVP Academic, 2009.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The Relationship of Philosophy to Theology

Fri, 29 May 2009 05:00:30 -0400

The Christ the Center panel discussed the nature of philosophy and theology and how they relate to each other. Among the topics discussed were whether theology is a science and if so, whether is it a theoretical or practical science. The guys even tackled the question of what science is. Like the discussion about the simplicity of God, this is not for the faint of heart but is worth pondering. Remember this, at the end of the day, theology is the science of living blessedly to God.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington

New Testament Textual Criticism in the 21st Century

Fri, 22 May 2009 05:00:19 -0400

Daniel B. Wallace discusses the challenges facing New Testament textual criticism in the 21st century. Join us for this interesting discussion of this fascinating discipline. Many listeners will be familiar with Dr. Wallace from his introductory textbook and his textbook on intermediate Greek grammar. Dr. Wallace is the senior New Testament editor of the NET Bible and coeditor of the NET-Nestle Greek-English diglot. He has also founded The Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts, an institute with the initial purpose to preserve Scripture by taking digital photographs of all known Greek New Testament manuscripts.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Daniel B. Wallace, Josh Walker, Nick Batzig

A Life in the Preaching Ministry

Fri, 15 May 2009 05:00:02 -0400

We had the pleasure to discuss the preaching ministry with noted Scottish minister Eric Alexander. Rev. Alexander has spent his adult life serving Jesus Christ, in His Church, as a minister of His Word having been ordained as a minister in the Church of Scotland for over fifty years. Rev. Alexander shares his wisdom regarding the preaching ministry.

This episode is brought to you in part by the Confessional Presbyterian Journal.

Rev. Alexander studied at the University of Glasgow, graduating Master of Arts in 1954 and Bachelor of Divinity in 1958. Thereafter he spent 4 years as an Assistant at St David’s Knightswood Chuch in the West end of Glasgow. In 1961 he was married to Greta Connell and they have a daughter and a son. It was in 1962 that he was called to the parish of Loudoun East Church, in the Covenanting district of Ayrshire, in the village of Newmilns. After 15 years there, in 1977, he was aware of God’s call to the city centre church of St George’s Tron, in Glasgow, where he served as senior minister for 20 years, until his retirement in 1997. During these 20 years, large congregations, of all ages, gathered, both morning and evening, to listen to expository sermons from both Old and New Testaments.

From the Eric Alexander website:

As the years have passed and the world has changed, he has grown ever more convinced of the urgent priority of summoning the church to the Apostolic priority expressed by the Apostles themselves in Acts 6v4; “We will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word. “

Participants: Camden Bucey, Eric Alexander, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

Reformed Worship

Fri, 08 May 2009 05:00:31 -0400

Nick Batzig sat down with Jon Payne at the Twin Lakes Fellowship to talk about the subject of Reformed Worship. Jon deals with the various aspects of this topic in his newest release, In The Splendor of Holiness: Rediscovering the Beauty of Reformed Worship for the 21st Century.

Dr. Jon D. Payne is minister of Grace Presbyterian Church in Douglasville, Ga. Dr. Payne has been serving as minister of Grace Presbyterian Church since June 2003 and is currently serving as Chair of the Northwest Georgia Presbytery’s Credentials Committee. In addition, Dr. Payne is a Visiting Lecturer at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta. Dr. Payne is the author of John Owen on the Lord’s Supper (Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth, 2004), Systematic Expository Preaching: A Historical and Biblical Analysis Demonstrating its Benefits for Both Congregation and Pastor (Doctoral thesis, RTS Jackson, Spring 2004), and the subject of this episode, In The Splendor of Holiness: Rediscovering the Beauty of Reformed Worship for the 21st Century (White Hall, WV; Tolle Lege Press, 2008).

Bibliography

Payne, Jon D. In The Splendor Of Holiness: Rediscovering the Beauty of Reformed Worship for the 21st Century. First. Tolle Lege Press, 2008.

—. John Owen on the Lord’s Supper. Edinburgh; Carlisle Pa.: Banner of Truth Trust, 2004.

Participants: Jon Payne, Nick Batzig

The Song of David’s Son

Fri, 01 May 2009 05:00:49 -0400

We are pleased to welcome Iain D Campbell to speak about a covenantal approach to interpreting the Song of Solomon. Dr. Campbell wrote a wonderful article in the Spring 2000 issue of the Westminster Theological Journal on the subject and he brings his insights to the panel. In addition to his article, Iain D has written several books including Doctrine of Sin, The Gospel According to Ruth, Heroes and Heretics, On the First Day of the Week, Opening up Exodus, and The Seven Wonders of the World: The Gospel in the Storyline of the Bible.

Bibliography

Bird, Michael. Introducing Paul: The Man, His mission and His Message. Downers Grove Ill.: IVP Academic, 2008.

Clowney, Edmund P., and Dennis E. Johnson. Heralds of the King: Christ-Centered Sermons in the Tradition of Edmund P. Clowney. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Dever, Mark. Proclaiming a Cross-Centered Theology. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Edgar, William. Christian Apologetics Past and Present: a Primary Source Reader. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Ellis, Carl. S.O.S., Saving Our Sons: Confronting the Lure of Islam with Truth, Faith & Courage. 1st ed. NY [i.e. New York] NY: Imani Books, 2007.

Ferguson, Everett. Baptism in the Early Church: History, Theology, and Liturgy in the First Five Centuries. Cambridge U.K.; Grand Rapids Mich.: W.B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2009.

Gamble, Richard. The Whole Counsel of God. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2009.

George, Timothy. J. I. Packer and the Evangelical Future: The Impact of His Life and Thought. Baker Academic, 2009.

Hauerwas, Stanley. A Cross-Shattered Church: Reclaiming the Theological Heart of Preaching. Grand Rapids MI: Brazos, 2009.

Horton, Michael. The Gospel-Driven Life Being Good News People in a Bad News World. Baker Pub Group, 2009.

Keller, Timothy. Counterfeit Gods. E P Dutton, 2009.

Lloyd-Jones, David. The Gospel in Genesis: From Fig Leaves to Faith. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Marshall, Walter. Gospel Mystery of Sanctification: Growing in Holiness by Living in Union with Christ. Eugene Oregon: Wipf & Stock Pub., 2005.

Mohler, R. The Disappearance of God: Dangerous Beliefs in the New Spiritual Openness. 1st ed. Colorado Springs Colo.: Multnomah Books, 2009.

Peterson, David. The Acts of the Apostles. Grand Rapids Mich.: William B. Eerdmans Pub. Co., 2009.

Plantinga, Alvin. Warranted Christian Belief. New York: Oxford University Press, 2000.

Trueman, Carl. Histories and Fallacies Problems Faced in the Writing of History. Crossway Books, 2009.

VanDrunen, David. Bioethics and the Christian Life: A Guide to Making Difficult Decisions. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Wright, R. No Place for Sovereignty: What’s Wrong With Freewill Theism. Downers Grove Ill.: InterVarsity Press, 1996.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Iain Campbell, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The God Who Is

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 05:00:52 -0400

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Douglas Kelly to speak about his Systematic Theology, Volume 1. Nick Batzig caught up with Dr. Kelly at the recent Twin Lakes Fellowship near Jackson, MS for this fascinating discussion. Dr. Kelly is the author of many written works including, If God Already Knows, Why Pray?, Preachers with Power: Four Stalwarts of the South, New Life in the Wasteland, Creation and Change, and The Emergence of Liberty in the Modern World.

Participants: Douglas Kelly, Nick Batzig

Christless Christianity

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 05:00:10 -0400

Michael Horton, J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary California and host of the White Horse Inn radio program joins Christ the Center to discuss his book Christless Christianity. The group covers several topics including the state of the American church, approaches to culture, and confessionalism. Listen in on a fascinating discussion.
Archive.org

Panel

Michael Horton
Lane Keister
Jeff Waddington
Camden Bucey

Links

Bibliography

Horton, Michael Scott. Christless Christianity: The Alternative Gospel of the American Church. Grand Rapids, Mich.: BakerBooks, 2008.

Smith, Christian. American Evangelicalism: Embattled and Thriving. 1st ed. University Of Chicago Press, 1998.

Future Directions in the Sociology of Religion Social Forces 86, no. 4 (2008): 1561-1589.

Theorizing Religious Effects among American Adolescents Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion 42, no. 1 (2003): 17-30.

Smith, Christian, and Melinda Lundquist. Denton. Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers. Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 2005.

Tchividjian, Tullian. Unfashionable: Making a Difference in the World by Being Different. Colorado Springs, Colo.: Multnomah Books, 2009.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Lane Keister, Michael Horton

The Unfolding of Biblical Eschatology

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 05:00:35 -0400

Did you know that the last things come first? If that sounds confusing, then you are in for a treat as the Christ the Center panel interviews Dr. R. Fowler White and Dr. Keith Mathison, president, and dean respectively, of the brand new Ligonier Academy of Biblical and Theological Studies. We learn about this new educational endeavor of Dr. R. C. Sproul’s Ligonier Ministries. Additionally, we discuss eschatological perspectives from Genesis to Revelation, focusing on Dr. Mathison’s new book From Age to Age. Dr. White is the editor or contributor to several books, including Whatever Happened to the Reformation? Dr. Mathison is a prolific author who has written, among many titles, When Shall These Things Be? and Given for You. Listeners will want to listen carefully to this episode in order to ascertain whether Dr. Mathison is an optimistic amillennialist or a pessimistic postmillennialist.

Panel

Bibliography

Hoekema, Anthony A. The Bible and the Future. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Eerdmans, 1979.

Johnson, Gary L. W., and R. Fowler White. Whatever Happened to the Reformation? Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R, 2001.

Mathison, Keith A. From Age to Age: The Unfolding of Biblical Eschatology. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2009.

—. Postmillennialism: An Eschatology of Hope. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 1999.

Riddlebarger, Kim. A Case for Amillennialism: Understanding the End Times. Grand Rapids, Mich.; Leicester, England: Baker Books; Inter-Varsity Press, 2003.

Venema, Cornelis P., and Sinclair B. Ferguson. The Promise of the Future. Edinburgh; Carlisle, Pa.: Banner of Truth Trust, 2000.

White, R. Fowler. Making Sense of Rev 20:1-10? Harold Hoehner Versus Recapitulation Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society. 37, no. 4 (1994): 539.

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Keith Mathison, Lane Keister, R. Fowler White

Geerhardus Vos

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 05:00:26 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had a fascinating conversation with Rev. Danny Olinger, general secretary for the Committee on Christian Education for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and editor of The Geerhardus Vos Anthology, about all things Vos. Rev. Olinger gives the listener a brief biographical sketch of the life and ministry of Vos and gets to the heart of Vos’ contribution to Reformed theology: Biblical theology of a Reformed and orthodox variety. Several key aspects of Vos’ work are explained, including the expression “eschatology precedes soteriology.” By the end of the discussion, listeners will understand the importance of Vos for a proper grasp of Reformed theology in general.

Panel

Danny E. Olinger
Jeff Waddington
Jim Cassidy
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Bond, Douglas. The Betrayal: A Novel on John Calvin. Presbyterian & Reformed Pub Co.

Clowney, Edmund P., and Dennis E. Johnson. Heralds of the King: Christ-Centered Sermons in the Tradition of Edmund P. Clowney. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Duncan, J. Ligon. Does Grace Grow Best in Winter? Presbyterian & Reformed Pub Co.

Fitzpatrick, Elyse, and Dennis E. Johnson. Counsel from the Cross: Connecting Broken People to the Love of Christ. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

McCartney, Dan G. James. Baker Academic, 2009.

Venema, Cornelis P., and Sinclair B. Ferguson. The Promise of the Future. Edinburgh; Carlisle, Pa.: Banner of Truth Trust, 2000.

Vos, Geerhardus. Biblical Theology. New Ed. Banner of Truth, 1975.

—. Grace and Glory: Sermons Preached in the Chapel of Princeton Theological Seminary. Grand Rapids Mich.: The Reformed Press, 1922.

—. Pauline Eschatology. P & R Publishing, 1979.

—. The Eschatology of the Old Testament. P & R Publishing, 2001.

Vos, Geerhardus, and Richard B., Jr. Gaffin. Redemptive History and Biblical Interpretation: The Shorter Writings of Geerhardus Vos. P & R Publishing, 2001.

Vos, Geerhardus, and Danny E. Olinger. A Geerhardus Vos Anthology: Biblical and Theological Insights Alphabetically Arranged. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2005.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Puritan Theology

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 05:00:03 -0400

Rev. James O’Brien, pastor of Reedy River PCA, joins with the Christ the Center panel for a discussion of all things Puritan. Rev. O’Brien shares his wisdom gained from years of reading and wrestling with various Puritan authors. He highlights how the Puritans should be read, who should be read, and why they should be read. This is an episode you will not want to miss.

Panel

James T. O’Brien
Nick Batzig
Jeff Waddington
Camden Bucey

Participants: Camden Bucey, James T. O'Brien, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The Church Fathers

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 05:00:35 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the distinct privilege of recently interviewing Dr. Michael A. G. Haykin, professor of church history and Biblical spirituality at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, about the importance of studying the early church fathers and reading them as the Protestant Reformers did. Dr. Haykin notes that Evangelicals are not known for their familiarity with the church fathers as they are often seen as the provenance of Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox scholars and theologians. However, this is not true, for instance, the Reformers widely read the fathers as senior conversation partners in the interpretation of Scripture and in the exposition of theology. John Calvin, for instance, quoted from such fathers as the great Augustine and learned some of his preaching method from John Chrysostom. The contemporary church owes a deep debt of gratitude to the early church fathers, who wrestled with such significant matters as the doctrine of the Trinity, the two natures of Christ, and the full deity of Christ and the Holy Spirit. Dr. Haykin notes that, unlike Scripture, the fathers are not inerrant and so must be read and thought over with discernment. Dr. Haykin is also a respected Jonathan Edwards scholar and has written or edited numerous articles and books, including: The Christian Lover, The Advent of Evangelicalism, Jonathan Edwards: The Holy Spirit in Revival, The Revived Puritan: The Spirituality of George Whitefield, The Spirit of God: The Exegesis of 1 and 2 Corinthians in the Pneumatomachian Controversy of the Fourth Century, and the five-volume British Particular Baptists. This is a must-hear interview that will only deepen one’s theological understanding of the Reformed faith.

Archive.org

Panel

Michael Haykin
Jim Cassidy
Jeff Waddington
Nick Batzig
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Haykin, Michael A. G. The Christian Lover: The Sweetness of Love and Marriage in the Letters of Believers. Lake Mary FL: Reformation Trust Pub., 2009.

—. Jonathan Edwards: The Holy Spirit in Revival. Evangelical Press, 2005.

—. The God Who Draws Near: An Introduction to Biblical Spirituality. Darlington, England; Webster, NY: Evangelical Press, 2007.

—. The Revived Puritan: the Spirituality of George Whitefield. Joshua Press, 2000.

—. The Spirit of God: The Exegesis of 1 and 2 Corinthians in the Pneumatomachian Controversy of the Fourth Century. Brill Academic Publishers, 1994.

Haykin, Michael A. G., Kenneth J. Stewart, and Timothy. George. The Advent of Evangelicalism: Exploring Historical Continuities. Nashville, TN: B & H Academic, 2008.

Kelly, J. N. D. Early Christian Doctrines. New York: Harper, 1959.

Letham, Robert. The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship. P & R Publishing, 2005.

Pelikan, Jaroslav. The Christian Tradition: A History of the Development of Doctrine, Vol. 1: The Emergence of the Catholic Tradition. University Of Chicago Press, 1975.

Wilken, Robert Louis. The Spirit of Early Christian Thought: Seeking the Face of God. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2003.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

Why Johnny Can’t Preach

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 05:00:22 -0400

Why Can’t Johnny Preach? That is a good question. And it is a troubling question too. To try to get at an answer, the Christ the Center panel interviewed Rev. Dr. T. David Gordon, minister in the Presbyterian Church in America and professor of religion and Greek at Grove City College. Dr. Gordon is the former pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashua, NH, and associate professor of New Testament at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, MA. The panel discussed with Dr. Gordon the reasons why preaching has fallen on such hard times in our day and what can be done about it. Along the way, issues of media ecology are also discussed as they bear on the challenges various media present to the task of preaching and the task of listening to preaching. Listeners will find much food for thought in this provocative episode.
Archive.org

Panel

T. David Gordon
Jeff Waddington
Jim Cassidy
Nick Batzig
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Gordon, T. David. Why Johnny Can’t Preach : The Media Have Shaped the Messengers. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2009.

McLuhan, Marshall, and Quentin Fiore. The Medium is the Message. New Ed. Gingko Press, 2005.

Phillips, Richard, and Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology. Precious Blood : The Atoning Work of Christ. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2009.

Postman, Neil. Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business. 20th ed. Penguin (Non-Classics), 2005.

Reynolds, Gregory Edward. The Word is Worth a Thousand Pictures: Preaching in the Electronic Age. Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock, 2001.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig, T. David Gordon

N.T. Wright’s Doctrine of Justification, Part 2

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 05:00:06 -0400

This is part 2 of a 2 part discussion with Guy Prentiss Waters. Part 1 is also available for download.

The Christ the Center panel had the distinct privilege of discussing N. T. Wright’s new book Justification: God’s Plan and Paul’s Vision with Guy Prentiss Waters, associate professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, MS. Dr. Waters is an ordained minister in Presbyterian Church in America and did his doctoral work under the supervision of E. P. Sanders at Duke University. Dr. Waters has written numerous books and articles, including The End of Deuteronomy in the Epistles of Paul, Justification and the New Perspectives on Paul, The Federal Vision and Covenant Theology, and he has co-edited with Gary Johnson By Faith Alone and has contributed a chapter to the recent publication The Law is Not of Faith. Dr. Waters and the panel discuss various features of Wright’s book, such as what is new in the book from what Wright has previously published, continuities with Wright’s past work, and the tone of the book. This a fascinating and detailed discussion that we have divided into two episodes.
Archive.org

Panel

Guy Prentiss Waters
Jim Cassidy
Nick Batzig
Jeff Waddington
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Carson, D. A., Peter T. O’Brien, and Mark A. Seifrid. Justification And Variegated Nomism. Baker Academic, 2004.

Fesko, J. Justification: Understanding the Classic Reformed Doctrine. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

Johnson, Gary L. W., and Guy Prentiss Waters. By Faith Alone : Answering the Challenges to the Doctrine of Justification. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2006.

Waters, Guy. The end of Deuteronomy in the Epistles of Paul. TÃƒ¼bingen: Mohr Siebeck, 2006.

Waters, Guy Prentiss. Justification and the new perspectives on Paul : a review and response. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2004.

—. The Federal Vision and Covenant Theology : A Comparative Analysis. Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R Publ., 2006.

Wright, N. T. Justification : God’s plan and Paul’s vision. London: SPCK, 2009

Participants: Camden Bucey, Guy Prentiss Waters, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

N.T. Wright’s Doctrine of Justification, Part 1

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:00:09 -0400

Part 2 of this discussion is also available.
Archive.org

Panel

Guy Prentiss Waters
Jim Cassidy
Nick Batzig
Jeff Waddington
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Carson, D. A., Peter T. O’Brien, and Mark A. Seifrid. Justification And Variegated Nomism. Baker Academic, 2004.

Fesko, J. Justification: Understanding the Classic Reformed Doctrine. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

Johnson, Gary L. W., and Guy Prentiss Waters. By Faith Alone : Answering the Challenges to the Doctrine of Justification. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2006.

Waters, Guy. The end of Deuteronomy in the Epistles of Paul. TÃƒ¼bingen: Mohr Siebeck, 2006.

Waters, Guy Prentiss. Justification and the new perspectives on Paul : a review and response. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2004.

—. The Federal Vision and Covenant Theology : A Comparative Analysis. Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R Publ., 2006.

Wright, N. T. Justification : God’s plan and Paul’s vision. London: SPCK, 2009.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Guy Prentiss Waters, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

Sanctification and the Gospel

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:00:56 -0400

Dr. Richard B. Gaffin, Professor of Biblical and Systematic Theology, Emeritus at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, joined the Christ the Center panel to discuss the nature of the gospel and the relation of the benefits of redemption to union with Christ. The significance of the contribution of John Calvin was delved into, especially his handling of the duplex gratia dei or two-fold blessing of justification and sanctification, and how this relates to our union with the risen Lord.

Of special interest was the conversation about how justification and sanctification relate to each other within union. A discussion was also had regarding the distinction between definitive and progressive sanctification and the biblical basis for that distinction. The panel also discussed the relation of the historia salutis (the history of redemption or the accomplishment of redemption) to the ordo salutis (the order of salvation or its application).

Dr. Gaffin is the author of numerous articles and books, including Resurrection and Redemption, Calvin and the Sabbath, Perspectives on Pentecost, By Faith, Not By Sight and he has edited a collection of the shorter writings of Geerhardus Vos, Redemptive History and Biblical Interpretation. In May of 2008 Dr. Gaffin entered into honored retirement and was the recipient of a festschrift entitled Resurrection and Eschatology co-edited by Lane G. Tipton and Jeffrey C. Waddington.
Archive.org

Panel

Richard B. Gaffin, Jr.
Jeff Waddington
James Dolezal
Jim Cassidy
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Bogue, Carl W. Jonathan Edwards and the Covenant of Grace . Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2009.

Gaffin, Richard. By Faith Not By Sight . Paternoster, 2006.

Gaffin, Richard B., Jr. Resurrection and Redemption: A Study in Paul’s Soteriology . 2nd ed. P & R Publishing, 1987.

Larson, Mark J. Calvin’s Doctrine of the State: A Reformed Doctrine and Its American Trajectory, the Revolutionary War, and the Founding of the Republic . Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2009.

Payne, Jon D. In The Splendor Of Holiness: Rediscovering the Beauty of Reformed Worship for the 21st Century . First. Tolle Lege Press, 2008

Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Richard B. Gaffin Jr.

Paedocommunion

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 05:00:03 -0400

The Christ the Center panel had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Cornelis P. Venema, president of Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana, and professor of doctrinal studies, about his forthcoming book, Children at the Lord’s Table: Assessing the Case for Paedocommunion, due out in March from Reformation Heritage Books. Dr. Venema discussed the causes for the rise in interest in the idea that since we baptize infants, children should also be admitted to the Lord’s table without a prior profession of faith. Following the general contours of the book, Dr. Venema addresses the historical, confessional, and biblical arguments for paedocommunion and shows why this practice is ultimately unbiblical. Whether you are for or against the admission of children to the Lord’s supper, you will appreciate both the discussion here and the book. Dr. Venema is also the author of the following books: Christ and the Future, Getting the Gospel Right, Gospel of Free Acceptance in Christ, The Promise of the Future, and Accepted and Renewed in Christ.

Panel

Bibliography

Calvin, John. Tracts and Letters of John Calvin. 7 vols. Banner of Truth Trust, 2009.

Ryken, Philip Graham. Luke. Phillipsburg: Presbyterian and Reformed, 2009.

Venema, Cornelis. Accepted and Renewed in Christ: The “twofold grace of God” and the interpretation of Calvin’s theology. GÃ¶ttingen: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht, 2007.

Venema, Cornelis P. Children at the Lord’s Table?: Assessing the case for paedocommunion. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Reformation Heritage Books, 2009.

—. Getting the Gospel Right: assessing the Reformation and new perspectives on Paul. Edinburgh, UK; Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth Trust, 2006.

—. The Gospel of Free Acceptance in Christ: an assessment of the Reformation and new perspectives on Paul. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2006.

Venema, Cornelis P., and Sinclair B. Ferguson. The Promise of the Future. Edinburgh; Carlisle, Pa.: Banner of Truth Trust, 2000.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Cornelis Venema, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane Keister, Nick Batzig

The Eschatology of Adoption

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 05:00:48 -0400

Christ the Center had the honor to interview the newest faculty member of Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, Rev. Dr. David Garner, who also serves as the institution’s vice president of advancement, about the doctrine of adoption. Adoption, one of the benefits of redemption that the believer gains by faith alone in union with Christ, relates to the believer’s gaining admittance into the family of God because of the work of the Son of God, elder brother Jesus Christ. Many aspects of the doctrine are discussed in this episode. Dr. Garner did his dissertation on this topic and has contributed a chapter, The First and Last Son, to Resurrection and Eschatology.
Archive.org

Panel

Dave Garner
Jeff Waddington
Jim Cassidy
Nick Batzig
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Beeke, Joel. Heirs with Christ: The Puritans on Adoption. Grand Rapids Mich.: Reformation Heritage Books, 2008.

Burke, Trevor J. Adopted into God’s Family: Exploring a Pauline Metaphor. Nottingham, England; Downers Grove, Ill.: Apollos ; InterVarsity Press, 2006.

Gaffin, Richard B., Jr. Resurrection and Redemption: A Study in Paul’s Soteriology. 2nd ed. P & R Publishing, 1987.

Garner, David. Adoption in Christ, 2002.

Hall, David W. The Legacy of John Calvin: His Influence on the Modern World. Calvin 500 series. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

Mathison, Keith A. From Age to Age: The Unfolding of Biblical Eschatology. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R Pub., 2009.

Phillips, Richard D. Saved by Grace: The Glory of Salvation in Ephesians 2. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 2009.

Scott, James M. Adoption as Sons of God: An Exegetical Investigation into the Background of [huiothesia] in the Pauline Corpus. Wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen zum Neuen Testament, 48. TÃƒ¼bingen: J.C.B. Mohr, 1992.

Spijker, W. Calvin: A Brief Guide to His Life and Thought. 1st ed. Louisville KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2009.

Still, William, Nigel M. de S. Cameron, and Sinclair B. Ferguson. Pulpit & People: Essays in Honour of William Still on His 75th Birthday. Edinburgh: Rutherford House Books, 1986.

Withrow, Brandon. Katherine Parr: A Guided Tour of the Life and Thought of a Reformation Queen. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2009.

Participants: Camden Bucey, David Garner, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig

The Erosion of Inerrancy in Evangelicalism

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 05:00:22 -0400

The Christ the Center panel, ably augmented by Dr. Carl R. Trueman of Westminster Theological Seminary, interacts with Dr. Greg K. Beale, the Kenneth T. Wessner Professor of New Testament and coordinator of the MA program in Biblical Exegesis, at Wheaton College Graduate School in Wheaton, IL, about his recent book The Erosion of Inerrancy in Evangelicalism. In addition to this book, Dr. Beale has written the New International Greek Testament Commentary on Revelation, The Right Doctrine from the Wrong Texts?, The Temple and the Church’s Mission, We Become What We Worship, and several other books and articles. Dr. Beale discusses the significance of Biblical inerrancy, its Scriptural basis, and the problems with jettisoning the doctrine. In addition to a proper concern for inerrancy, Beale explains how scholars can rightly approach the use of Ancient Near Eastern and 2^nd Temple Jewish literature without undermining the authority and perspicuity of Scripture. Along the way, the panel considers the influence of postmodernism on Biblical studies. All in all, this is a very interesting discussion that hopefully will lead to further interaction.
Archive.org

Panel

Greg Beale
Carl Trueman
Jeff Waddington
Nick Batzig
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Beale, G. K. The Book of Revelation: A Commentary on the Greek Text (New International Greek Testament Commentary. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1998.

—. The Erosion of Inerrancy in Evangelicalism : Responding to New Challenges to Biblical Authority. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2008.

—. The Temple and the Church’s Mission: A Biblical Theology of the Dwelling Place of God. InterVarsity Press, 2004.

Beale, G. K., and D. A. Carson. Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament. Baker Academic, 2007.

Carson, D. Becoming Conversant With The Emerging Church: Understanding A Movement And Its Implications. Grand Rapids Mich.: Zondervan, 2005.

Enns, Peter. Inspiration and Incarnation : Evangelicals and the Problem of the Old Testament. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Academic, 2005.

Geisler, Norman. Biblical Errancy, 1981.

Hannah, John D. Inerrancy and the Church. Chicago: Moody Press, 1984.

Institutes of the Christian Religion 1541 French Edition. Eerdmans Pub Co, 2009.

John Calvin’s Impact on Church and Society, 1509-2009. Eerdmans Pub Co, 2009.

McGowan, A. The Divine Spiration of Scripture: Challenging Evangelicial Perspectives. Nottingham: Apollos, 2007.

Packer, J. I. “Fundamentalism” and the Word of God: Some Evangelical Principles. Christian classics series. Leicester: Inter-Varsity, 1996.

Selderhuis, H. John Calvin: A Pilgrim’s Life. Downers Grove Ill.: IVP Academic, 2009.

Sparks, Kenton L. God’s Word in Human Words: An Evangelical Appropriation of Critical Biblical Scholarship. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Academic, 2008.

Warfield, Benjamin Breckinridge, Samuel G. Craig, and Cornelius Van Til. The Inspiration and Authority of the Bible. Philadelphia: Presbyterian and Reformed Pub. Co., 1948.

Woodbridge, John D. Biblical Authority: A Critique of the Rogers/McKim Proposal. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan Pub. House, 1982.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Greg Beale, Jeff Waddington, Nick Batzig

The Young Bultmann

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 05:00:25 -0400

In this episode of Christ the Center the panel interviews Dr. William Dennison, professor of interdisciplinary studies at Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, GA, about his recent publication The Young Bultmann. Bultmann was at one time the most influential New Testament scholars of the western world. He is perhaps best known for his hermeneutic of demythologization. Questions of influences on Rudolf Bultmann come in for discussion (Neo-Kantian or Heidiggerian) as well as Bultmann’s relationship to Freiderich D. E. Schleiermacher and Karl Barth. Listeners interested in how presuppositional apologetics is brought to bear in understanding a major figure in NT studies will benefit from this discussion.

Panel

Dr. William Dennison
Jeff Waddington
Jim Cassidy
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Dennison, William A., and William D. Dennison. Paul’s Two-Age Construction and Apologetics. Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2000.

Dennison, William D. A Christian Approach to Interdisciplinary Studies: in Search of a Method and Starting Point. Eugene Or.: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2007.

—. The Young Bultmann: Context for His Understanding of God,1884-1925. American university studies. New York: P. Lang, 2008.

Noll, Mark A. God and Race in American Politics: A Short History. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press, 2008.

Tipton, Lane G., and Jeffrey C. Waddington. Resurrection and Eschatology : Theology in Service of the Church : Essays in Honor of Richard B. Gaffin, Jr. Phillipsburg N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

Participants: Bill Dennison, Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Redeeming Science

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 05:00:11 -0400

Science and faith are often pitted against each other. Many have felt they must make a choice between either being a person of science or a person of faith. Dr. Vern Poythress, Professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary and the author of Redeeming Science, joins the panel on Christ the Center to discuss the relationship between Christianity and science. He argues that not only is science compatible with Christianity but that the Triune God of the Bible is required in order for the very possibility of science to exist. Listen to this broad-ranging discussion that touches upon science, mathematics, the creation days, and a Christian approach to education.
Archive.org

Panel

Vern Poythress
James Dolezal
Jim Cassidy
Nick Batzig
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Nickel, James. Mathematics: Is God Silent? Vallecito, Calif.: Ross House Books, 2001.

Poythress, Vern S. God-Centered Biblical Interpretation. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 1999.

—. Redeeming Science: A God-Centered Approach. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2006.

—. The Shadow of Christ in the Law of Moses. Brentwood, Tenn.: Wolgemuth & Hyatt, 1991.

—. Understanding Dispensationalists. 2nd ed. P & R Publishing, 1993.

Van Til, Cornelius. Introduction to Systematic Theology. 2nd ed. P & R Publishing, 2007.

Wolterstorff, Nicholas. On Universals: An Essay in Ontology. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1970.

Participants: James Dolezal, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig, Vern Poythress

Reformed Catechesis and the Ordinary Means of Grace

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 05:00:05 -0400

The Christ the Center panel tackled the importance of an ordinary means of grace ministry and the place of catechism within that overall approach. First, it was determined that God has ordained that the church in this age proclaim the gospel and advance in the faith through his ordained means and not some man-made program such as revivalism (to be clearly distinguished from true revival).

The biblical foundations for this were developed in the distinction between the foundation and superstructure of the church and the extraordinary and ordinary ministries in the church. The extraordinary ministry of apostleship and miracles laid the foundation with Christ as the cornerstone (Eph), but in this age of the ordinary ministry of the superstructure of the church, the stress falls on the ordinary means of grace (Acts 2:42): the Word, sacraments, and prayer. It is in this setting that the panel discussed the necessity and benefits of catechism for both children and adults. God has said he would bless these means and the church strays from them to her own peril.

Panel

Jim Cassidy
Jeff Waddington
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Beale, G. K. The Erosion of Inerrancy in Evangelicalism : Responding to New Challenges to Biblical Authority. Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway Books, 2008.

Billings, J. Todd. Calvin, participation, and the gift : the activity of believers in union with Christ. Changing paradigms in historical and systematic theology. Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 2007.

Clark, R. Scott. Recovering the Reformed confession : our theology, piety, and practice. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P&R Pub., 2008.

Derrida, Jacques. Writing and difference. Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 1978.

Edwards, Jonathan, and Peter Johannes Thuesen. Catalogues of books. New Haven: Yale University Press, 2008.

Gaffin, Richard B., Jr. Resurrection and Redemption: A Study in Paul’s Soteriology. 2nd ed. P & R Publishing, 1987.

Garcia, Mark A. Life in Christ : Union with Christ and Twofold Grace in Calvin’s Theology. Studies in Christian history and thought. Milton Keynes; Colorado Spring, CO: Paternoster, 2008.

Gibson, David, Daniel Strange, Henri. Blocher, and Carl R. Trueman. Engaging with Barth: Contemporary Evangelical Critiques. T&t Clark Ltd, 2009.

—. Engaging with Barth: Contemporary Evangelical Critiques. Nottingham, England: Apollos, 2008.

Hart, D. G. The lost soul of American Protestantism. American intellectual culture. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2002.

Horton, Michael. Christless Christianity : the alternative gospel of the American church. Grand Rapids, Mich.: BakerBooks, 2008.

—. Covenant and salvation : union with Christ. 1st ed. Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2007.

Jeffery, S. Pierced for Our Transgressions: Rediscovering the Glory of Penal Substitution. Wheaton Ill.: Crossway Books, 2007.

Meade, Starr. Training hearts, teaching minds : family devotions based on the shorter catechism. Phillipsburg, N.J.: P & R, 2000.

Olson, Roger E. How to be evangelical without being conservative. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Zondervan, 2008.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy

Highlights from 2008

Thu, 01 Jan 2009 20:26:11 -0400

On this episode of Christ the Center we brought together a collection of highlights from 2008. We started Christ the Center in January of 2008 and haven’t missed a week yet. We want to thank all of our listeners for putting up with our growing pains. Thanks for listening. This year we had the privilege of speaking with many of today’s leading reformed scholars. We learned much and had quite a bit of fun in the process. We hope you enjoy this brief collection of clips from our first year.

Participants: Camden Bucey, Carl Trueman, Derek Thomas, James Dolezal, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, K. Scott Oliphint, Martin Downes, Nick Batzig, Ron Gleason

Van Til’s Trinitarian Theology

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 05:00:29 -0400

Lane G. Tipton joins the panel again to discuss Cornelius Van Til’s particular formulation of Trinitarian theology. Dr. Tipton is Associate Professor of Systematic Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary (PA) and has written a dissertation on the topic. Join us as we talk about Dr. Van Til’s theology and the importance of his Trinitarian theology not only for understanding his apologetic system but for holding all things together.
Archive.org

Panel

Lane Tipton
Nick Batzig
Jeff Waddington
Jim Cassidy
Camden Bucey

Bibliography

Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington, Jim Cassidy, Lane G. Tipton, Nick Batzig