Off Stage with Greg and RD

In this special episode of Off Stage with Greg and RD, join us as we pay tribute to the life and lasting legacy of Tim Keller, a pastor, preacher, theologian, and author who left an indelible mark on our hosts, Greg and RD. Dive deep into the teachings of Keller that resonated with them personally, exploring the profound impact his wisdom had on their work as pastors and its relevance in today's ever-changing cultural landscape.Dr. Timothy Keller was a pastor, preacher, theologian, and apologist. He founded Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City and is the author of multiple books including The Reason for God, The Prodigal God, King's Cross, The Meaning of Marriage, and Encounters with Jesus.R.D. references Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual FormationRD references Tim's sermon after 9/11: Truth, Tears, Anger, and Grace. Greg references the book Biblical Critical Theory by Christopher Watkin. Dr. Keller wrote the foreword for the book. RD reads from Tim's book Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering. Want to read more of Kellers' work but don't know where to start? Here are recommendations from the guys:Greg's Pick: The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of SkepticismRD's Pick: The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian FaithFor more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Lights, camera, action! On this episode of Off Stage with Greg and RD, the hosts talk about their favorite movies. They share their belief that movies are a gift from God for our enjoyment, and discuss the films that have had the biggest impact on them. Along the way, they also dish on overrated and underrated movies, bringing their trademark humor and insight to the conversation. Whether you're a film buff or just looking for some entertainment, tune in to hear Greg and RD's take on the world of cinema.

On this episode of Off Stage with Greg and RD, the hosts dive into the controversial topic of whether language can be considered a form of violence. With their trademark "both/and" approach, they examine both sides of the argument and explore the complexities of power dynamics and communication. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

In this episode of Off Stage with Greg and RD, the hosts engage in a profound conversation on the themes of autonomy and loneliness, inspired by the work of Christopher Watkin's Biblical Critical Theory. They analyze how modern culture's emphasis on individual autonomy can leave people feeling disconnected and isolated. Through their exploration of Biblical texts, Greg and RD offer a deep and insightful perspective on how a sense of community and glorifying God can provide us with a path towards overcoming loneliness and finding genuine fulfillment. Join us for a compelling discussion that will encourage you to consider how our cultural values affect our mental and emotional well-being.Today we are having a conversation about a conversation we had about the book Biblical Critical Theory by Christopher Watkin. For more information on this podcast, visit fellowshipknox.org/podcastsYou can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Oh yes! Let's dive into the world of C.S. Lewis and The Chronicles of Narnia. We try not to get too nerdy, but let's be real, we can't help ourselves. We discuss the themes, characters, and overall awesomeness of this classic series, and offer some insights on how it can deepen our understanding of faith and spirituality, including the parallels between Aslan and Jesus. So join us as we journey through the magical world of Narnia and explore the deeper truths that it reveals.We are discussing at-length the Chronicles of Narnia which can be read in two orders: Chronological: 1.) The Magician's Nephew2.) The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe3.) The Horse and His Boy 4.) Prince Caspian5.) The Voyage of the Dawn Treader 6.) The Silver Chair 7.) The Last Battle Order of Publication:1.) The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe 2.) Prince Caspian3.) The Voyage of the Dawn Treader 4.) The Silver Chair 5.) The Horse and His Boy6.) The Magician's Nephew 7.) The Last Battle A young fan in 1957 had a dispute with his mother saying he wanted to read them chronologically and his mother preferred publication order. This fan wrote to Lewis who sent this reply:“I think I agree with your order for reading the books more than with your mother's. The series was not planned beforehand as she thinks. When I wrote The Lion I did not know I was going to write any more. Then I wrote P. Caspian as a sequel and still didn't think there would be any more, and when I had done The Voyage I felt quite sure it would be the last. But I found as I was wrong. So perhaps it does not matter very much in which order anyone read them.”But it's worth noting that order of publication will introduce you to Aslan first as the Pevensie children met him: a mystery, a wonder yet a kind and good ruler who is capable of reversing death. If you read Magician's Nephew first, you miss this experience. Also referenced in this episode: Mere Christianity The Space Trilogy (Including That Hideous Strength)Planet Narnia by Michael Ward For our many friends in Brazil, here's a link to the books in Portuguese. For more information on this podcast, visit fellowshipknox.org/podcastsYou can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

In this episode of Off Stage with Greg and RD, the hosts delve into the concept of plausibility structures and their significance in the context of Christianity and contemporary culture. Through their unique blend of humor and wisdom, Greg and RD explore how plausibility structures shape our beliefs and worldviews, and how they can be used to engage others in meaningful conversations about faith and spirituality. RD references C.S. Lewis's book Miracles. And then Greg references Mere Christianity. Basically, there's a lot of Lewis in this conversation and you should read his books. A plausibility structure is a a mental apparatus that operates as a filter for your beliefs. It's been compared to the term “worldview.”Greg references Walden by Henry David ThoreauFor more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join Greg and RD on this episode of Off Stage as they explore the topic of Chat GPT and its implications for Christians. They discuss the ethical considerations surrounding the use of this technology and how it challenges our understanding of what it means to be human. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about the role of artificial intelligence in our lives.Here is a link to a popular Chat GPT. RD references the movie Sphere. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Today, we're excited to continue our in-depth Bible study series with a closer look at the book of Exodus. In this episode, we'll explore how the story of Moses and the Israelites in Egypt prefigures the Gospel and points us to the coming of Christ. We'll take a deep dive into the text and discuss how the events of Exodus reveal God's character and His plan for salvation. Previous episodes in our Bible Study series:How to Study the BibleGenesis MatthewBook of Acts Romans1 Peter Revelation Bible and Systematic TheologyRD references Tim Keller's sermon Crossing Over. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Oh boy, in this episode of Off Stage, Greg and RD tackle the controversial topic of whether or not it's appropriate for Christians to use the enneagram. They also provide an in-depth explanation of what the enneagram is and how it can be both helpful and/ or harmful.Books on the Enneagram: The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanna StabileHow We Relate: Understanding God, Yourself and Others through the Enneagram by Jesse EubanksFor more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

In this episode, Greg and RD delve into some of the common reasons people give for deconstructing their faith, specifically "church hurt" and the perception that the church seeks to control people. Drawing on biblical principles and teachings, we explore how these experiences and perceptions can lead to a crisis of faith and offer guidance for navigating these challenges in a way that is consistent with a biblical worldview. RD references our past episode The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill RD references our episode The Great Deconversion where we discuss Joshua Harris. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Have you lost your mind in a Disney World parking lot? Have you loaded the kids in the car for a 12+ hour drive and thought "This is a good idea!"? Or perhaps you're on the other end of the spectrum and you are anti-vacation for practical or even theological reasons. Well, have we got a show for you. Plus, R.D. and Greg share their own vacation stories and favs in a lighting round of questions. RD references our past episode on Disney World. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Buckle up. We're taking a look at the go-to arguments many atheists make: we're talking problem of evil, the reliability of the Bible and so much more. Greg and RD reference the sermon The Word & The Dragon. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Today we are discussing transgenderism. What does the Bible say about it and what does it mean to live faithful to what God has revealed in his Word while also offering gentleness to the world in a topic that sparks heated debate on all sides? RD references Embodied by Preston Sprinkle. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Over the last few weeks, a revival has broken out in Asbury. What does this mean? How can we be engaging without being impetuous? Can we analyze such things without becoming cynical? And what does the movement of God actually look like? 

We're back and we're finally talking about the Chosen. That's right, after many e-mails and responses asking us about the show, Greg and RD are diving into the show about the life of Jesus that is sweeping the nation.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

You do you. Is that always a good idea? This phrase is the hallmark of an expressive individualist culture. But is it true? Is it in line with what scripture teaches? And is it good for our culture in the long run?Greg mentions The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution by Carl TruemanGreg references our episode on Institutions and the Role of Culture. Greg references his sermon last week on the Master of the House. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Our culture seems to tell us there are only two extremes when it comes to how we see our country: hate it for all of its evil or love it beyond criticism. As always, Greg and RD want to help us walk the line between the two extremes with scripture as our guide. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Both/and: Christianity is both God doing all the work of saving us yet and asking us to obey, to work towards becoming more like Christ. How do we hold these two ideas in tension while living in a Christian culture that always bends towards one or the other? Greg references The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer RD references the work of Dallas Willard and Wayne Grudem.RD reads from 1 John 2:1-6: 1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. 2 He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world. 3 And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 Whoever says “I know him” but does not keep his commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him, 5 but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him: 6 whoever says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

The leaves are changing, the coats are coming out of the closets and football is being played all across the US. RD's team, the Tennessee Volunteers (UT for short) won a dramatic game over their fierce rival, Alabama and he couldn't resist talking about it. But, as always, we take this topic and stretch it into the deeper story of God's glory as he's revealed it through good things like football and community. So let's talk some UT football!  Greg has supplied this really helpful article that references his first points on the show.We discussed football on our past episode Does God care about football? We highly recommend a listen as it is one our listeners often bring up as a favorite. RD references our episode on Walt Disney World. ‘The show The Good Place is referenced. RD references Proverbs 3:11.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Reformed Theology is a topic that requires much thought, discussion; wrestling even. And with that Greg and R.D. believe it needs more than one episode so today we're focusing on two aspects of Reformed Theology: election and predestiantion. Listen to our last episode on Reformed Theology. RD references Greg's Sermon on Ephesians 2. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

The world is unstable. This is a fact of life yet it feels like something we've only learned in the last couple of years. As always through the lens of the Bible, Greg and R.D. speak on what economic uncertainty means for us and how we can operate out of wisdom and not fear. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

In the words of Greg "Enough PBS episodes, let's get back to Bravo." We're discussing the recent bombshell story about Adam Levine's reported affair and messages that were posted on social media. Why does our culture sprint towards stories like this but not only that: what deeper truths can be unearthed through discussing it? As always with their biblical grounding and quick humor, Greg and R.D. fearlessly dive in to the issues you care about. The writer of these notes refuses to provide links to any stories on Adam Levine or Don't Worry Darling. You have google, look it up yourself. Greg references Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. The quote R.D. and Greg reference comes from Exclusion and Embrace: A Theological Exploration of Identity, Otherness, and Reconciliation by Miroslav Volf.Here's the full title of the episode: Adam Levine, Socrates, C. S. Lewis, Bob Villa, Kermit the Frog, Jim Henson, Joe Diffie, Tim Keller, Thanos, Voltaire, and Miroslav Volf (or some other theologian born in the former country of Yugoslavia). For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

While the United Kingdom mourns the loss of Queen Elizabeth II, Greg and R.D. take time to reflect on the nature of ruling sovereigns and how in the Kingdom of God, there is no transfer of power. The show The Crown is referenced. The film The King's Speech is referenced. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

God is God and we are not. How we think of him as revealed in scripture is important and today, Greg and RD discuss Reformed Theology: what it is, what it isn't and how it makes much of God and his grace to us. RD references our episode “The Bible is Real Life.” For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Oh my, here we go: Revelation. We're continuing our Bible Study series with the book of Revelation. Why is this book in the Bible? What is revealed about Christ and our relationship with him through the text? And what are some common misconceptions (there are many) people derive from this book? These questions and more. Previous episodes in our Bible Study series: How to Study the BibleGenesis MatthewBook of Acts Romans1 Peter Bible and Systematic TheologyHere's our episode on Unraveling Eschatology that Greg mentioned. Greg quotes from C.S. Lewis's Screwtape LettersPlease don't call us with your opinion on who the Anti-Christ is. Greg references a quote from Jesus in Matthew 24:24.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

We discussed the topic of deconversion in the first season of our show but since then, we've witnessed it more and more. Why is this happening? How do we approach this? What do we say to our friends who are deconstructing? And what if we ourselves are wrestling through this? In the first season of our show, we discussed this topic. In Today's discussion, we want to trace how this has changed since we recorded that episode. RD references Greg's Sermon on 2 Timothy 2:4:4 from August 14th. With regards to Happiness and Joy, Life Reframed, our sister podcast discussed this in a recent episode. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Recently a bombshell report was released revealing abuse and how it was handled within the Southern Baptist Convention. Honestly, as people of God, what do we do with that? And what about other high-profile churches where we have seen such failures? Greg and RD consider these questions as always, through the lens of scripture. Greg references Russell Moore's article This Is the Southern Baptist Apocalypse.RD references the Houston Chronicle's investigatory series “Abuse of Faith.” RD references a quote from Karen Swallow Prior: “Worse than wolves disguised as sheep are the ones disguised as shepherds.” Greg references a report about Kanakuk camps. RD references Hillsong: A Megachurch Exposed. RD references our episode on the Rise and Fall of Mars Hill. Greg references 2 Timothy 4:3. RD references Romans 12:1-2.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Marijuana exists in a gray area and as more states move towards decriminalization and legalization for both medicinal and recreational use, how are we as followers of Jesus to engage this?As Greg and RD mentioned, this summer we're doing a Revelation Vodcast. We will have more information soon. Greg references 1 Corinthians 6:12. RD reads from Galatians 15:13-25.You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Last week a new development from the Supreme Court has ignited the abortion debate here in the US. In this special response episode, Greg and RD offer their opinions on what this means and give a vision for how we as Christians can respond. Greg references our earlier episode on Biblical Worldview and Abortion with Stacie Johnson. RD references an article in Politico that broke this story. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

What does the Bible say about the Death Penalty? Does the death penalty honor God? And how are we to approach this as followers of Jesus? Greg and RD discuss this hot topic as always through the lens of scripture. Greg and RD reference Genesis 9:6.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Ok, so Jesus comes back from the dead and then what happens next? Today Greg and RD dive into the Ascension and how vital this doctrine is to our theology and our walks with Christ. Today we're talking about the Ascension in Acts 1:6-11. Greg references Luke 24:42. RD references Hebrews 10:11.RD references Matthew 28:16-20.Greg references are past episode Is it Mystery or is it Chaos? RD reads from John 14:1-3. Greg references 1 Corinthians 15:14. Greg references Ephesians 4:8. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. It's Easter Sunday. He's alive. Today we're telling the story as recorded in Matthew 28:1-10, Mark 16:1-14, Luke 24:1-44 and John 20:1-29.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. Today is Holy Saturday. In the Gospels this is recorded in Matthew 27:62-66.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. Today is Good Friday. In the Gospels, Friday is recorded in Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 22-23 and John 18-19. RD references The Passion of the Christ. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. Today is Maundy Thursday. We are looking at a few texts but specifically the Upper Room Discourse in John 13-17. Also see Matthew 26, Mark 14 and Luke 22. RD references a Todd Agnew song “Did You Know?” For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. Today we are discussing the Anointing at Bethany in Mark 14, Matthew 26 and John 12. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. Today we are discussing Jesus's Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 and 25, Mark 13 and 14 and Luke 21.  RD references 1 Peter 2:1-10. For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. Today we are discussing Jesus cursing the fig tree in Mark 11, Matthew 21 and Luke 13. Greg references Romans 11:11-24.For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Join us this Holy Week each day as we follow the story beginning on Palm Sunday all the way through Easter. Today, we're meditating on the Triumphal Entry recorded in Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19 and John 12.The Triumphal Entry is recorded in Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19 and John 12 For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

Most people didn't sign up to fight in a culture war. But we see them all around us and today Greg and RD talk about institutions, how they are central to culture and how we as followers of Christ play a role in shaping them. Greg references 1 Corinthians 5:12 Greg and RD reference Greg's sermon from Sunday. Oh did y'all know Greg was from Texas? He alludes to that in this episode (surprise surprise). For more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org   

In our reading of the Bible, we often forget to realize this is a real story with real people in a real place. Today Greg and RD discuss how reading it through this lens is essential to our life in Christ.Greg references our recent episode on Chaos vs. Mystery. RD references Hebrews 11 RD references A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis Greg references Matthew 12RD references The Innkeeper by John PiperFor more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org  

On today's episode Greg and R.D. dive into what baptism and the Lord's Supper mean to us. Are we saved because of them or do we do them because we are saved? What are specifics for how we are to take part in them? We answer these questions and so many more. Here's the story Greg and RD are referencingFor more information on this podcast, visit podcast.fellowshipknox.org  You can also e-mail questions or topic ideas to offstage@fellowshipknox.org