Remonstrance

In this series of episodes we will be diving into Arminius' Fourfold Doctrine of Predestination as outlined in his Declaration of Sentiments (1608). We will see how it aligns with Covenant Theology, Scripture, and is thoroughly Christocentric. In this episode we will focus on the third and fourth decree in Arminius' Fourfold Doctrine of Predestination. The fourth is the most controversial because it deals with "particular" election of individuals. We will also look at how Middle Knowledge fits into the theology of Arminius and what W. Stephen Gunter thinks of all of this in the analysis section of his book.  Resources Used: Arminius and His Declaration of Sentiments (W. Stephen Gunter) Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace (Stanglin and McCall) After Arminius (Stanglin and McCall)

In this series of episodes we will be diving into Arminius' Fourfold Doctrine of Predestination as outlined in his Declaration of Sentiments (1608). We will see how it aligns with Covenant Theology, Scripture, and is thoroughly Christocentric. We will also discuss whether it could be described as "Reformed" or not and compare it to various Calvinistic versions of the doctrine of predestination. Could the theology of Arminius be more "Reformed" than the theology of many Calvinists today? I think so. Listen in to see what you think.  Resources Used: Arminius and His Declaration of Sentiments (W. Stephen Gunter) Covenant Theology: Biblical, Theological, and Historical Perspectives (Crossway) From Faith to Faith: John Wesley's Covenant Theology and the Way of Salvation (Stanley J. Rodes)

This month, we will be releasing a teaching I did last year based on John Wesley’s sermon “On Divine Providence” in two parts. There is a link to Wesley's sermon below. The teaching was done only a few weeks into the COVID-19 Pandemic and recorded at Wesley Chapel, the church where I serve as Lead Pastor. It focuses on how the doctrine of providence gives us hope and confidence even in times of uncertainty because the doctrine reveals that God is ultimately in control. If you are interested in listening to expository preaching from a Wesleyan-Arminian perspective then check out the Wesley Chapel podcast.  Links: On Divine Providence by John Wesley Wesley Chapel Podcast 

This month, we will be releasing a teaching I did last year based on John Wesley’s sermon “On Divine Providence” in two parts. There is a link to Wesley's sermon below. The teaching was done only a few weeks into the COVID-19 Pandemic and recorded at Wesley Chapel, the church where I serve as Lead Pastor. It focuses on how the doctrine of providence gives us hope and confidence even in times of uncertainty because the doctrine reveals that God is ultimately in control. If you are interested in listening to expository preaching from a Wesleyan-Arminian perspective then check out the Wesley Chapel podcast.  Links: On Divine Providence by John Wesley Wesley Chapel Podcast 

Welcome back to Remonstrance Revamp! In this episode, we will continue to look at the lineup of Classical Methodist Theologians. Richard Watson, Samuel Wakefield, Thomas Ralston, Thomas Summers, and William Pope. Other Methodist theologians such as John Miley (boo!) will be mentioned as well. As a guide, we will be looking at sections of "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology" by Keith Stanglin and Thomas McCall. In this episode, I will focus on the topics of Atonement, Justification, and Eschatology.  Did you buy "After Arminius" yet? If not, please do! Also, here is the article by Henry C. Sheldon that is mentioned in the episode. 

Welcome back to Remonstrance Revamp! In this series of episodes, we will be looking at the lineup of Classical Methodist Theologians. Richard Watson, Samuel Wakefield, Thomas Ralston, Thomas Summers, and William Pope. Other Methodist theologians such as John Miley (boo!) will be mentioned as well. As a guide, we will be looking at sections of "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology" by Keith Stanglin and Thomas McCall. In this episode, I will focus on the topics of Scripture, Middle Knowledge, and Original Sin.  Did you buy "After Arminius" yet? If not, please do! 

Welcome back to Remonstrance Revamp! In this series of episodes, we have a conversation with Dr. Vic Reasoner about the theology and practices of the Holiness Movement. In this episode, Dr. Reasoner discusses the theology of the Holiness Movement. He talks about how Pheobe Palmer and Charles Finney influenced the theology of the Holiness Movement. He also shares how the theology of the Holiness Movement is supported through narrow "proof-texting" and a purposeful selection of particular theology. Finally, he shares his understanding of the doctrine of Perfect Love and how it differs from the formulation of the Holiness Movement.  Links: Fundamental Wesleyan Society 

Welcome to Remonstrance Revamp! In this series of episodes, we have a conversation with Dr. Vic Reasoner about the theology and practices of the Holiness Movement. In this episode, Dr. Reasoner shares his personal history with the Holiness Movement and what ultimately led him to leave behind the Holiness Movement. He also talks about "the good, the bad, and the ugly" within the Holiness Movement. Stay tuned for the second part of this series that will be released later this month where we will talk about the theology of the Holiness Movement.  Links: Fundamental Wesleyan Society Bookstore   

In this minisode I continue to share some of what I have learned so far from "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology" by Thomas H. McCall and Keith D. Stanglin. In this minisode I focus on the second part of Chapter 3: "Hearts and Hands: John Wesley and the Theology of Early Methodism." I focus primarily on the "Reformed" Wesley. Highlighting Wesley's views on the inspiration of Scripture, Meticulous Providence, Middle Knowledge, Federalism, Penal Substitution, Justification, and Imputation.  Here is the link to the article about Wesley and Middle Knowledge: Molina, Arminus, Plaifere, Goad, and Wesley On Human Free-will, Divine Omniscience, and Middle Knowledge Make sure you buy a copy of "After Arminius" for yourself: "After Arminius" on Amazon 

In March Remonstrance turns five! The first “minisode” of Remonstrance dropped on March 3, 2016, and we have been working to promote Wesleyan-Arminian Reformation ever since. A lot has changed in the last five years. Ben and I planted a church in Shelton, Connecticut, and we have both become fathers. Remonstrance has teamed up with the Fundamental Wesleyan Society and I graduated from Wesley Seminary. The theological podcast landscape has also changed significantly since 2016, although Calvinist voices still dominate. All of these factors have prompted the necessity to revamp Remonstrance beginning the week of our fifth birthday. The first week of March 2021. Remonstrance is not going anywhere but we will be changing our programming. Moving forward, the podcast will consist of five types of episode formats: Interviews: There will be a lot of interviews with Wesleyan and Arminian scholars, historians, seminary professors, and theologians on the show. Stay tuned for some interesting interviews! Some of them will be returning from past episodes and others will be new to the podcast.  Book and Article Reflections: I will be dropping minisodes or even full episodes where I reflect on theology books I am reading or I have read. I will also interact with and respond to current theology articles relative to Wesleyan-Arminianism. Historical Episodes: I will be dropping some episodes (or minisodes) where I will explore significant historical events from the history of the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition.  Doctrinal Dialogues: True to our “pre-revamp” selves Ben and I will discuss topics together related to Wesleyan-Arminian theology or practice. Debates: Remonstrance will also be hosting debates from within the Wesleyan-Arminian tradition. These will not be your classic “Calvinist vs. Arminian” debates (yawn) but rather “in-house” debates only!  Essentially, each month will be something different. Remonstrance will remain committed to delivering fresh and theologically substantial content every month. We will also continue our partnerships with the Society of Evangelical Arminians and the Fundamental Wesleyan Society.  I hope you will join Remonstrance Podcast for the next five years of Wesleyan-Arminian Reformation. I am looking forward to seeing what God will do.  Soli Deo Gloria.  -Vin @ Remonstrance 

In this minisode I continue to share some of what I have learned so far from "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology" by Thomas H. McCall and Keith D. Stanglin. In this minisode I focus on the second part of Chapter 2: "Heat and Light" which focuses on English Arminianism. I start off by sharing what I learned about the controversy surrounding Peter Baro at Cambridge which actually predated the Arminian controversy in the Netherlands! Then we look at the positives and negatives of English Arminianism including the thought of Thomas Jackson, John Goodwin, Thomas Goad, and George Bull. Here is the link to the article by Richard Muller about Thomas Goad.  Goading the Determinists: Thomas Goad (1576-1638) On Necessity, Contingency, and God's Eternal Decree by Richard A. Muller  Make sure you buy a copy of "After Arminius" for yourself: "After Arminius" on Amazon 

In this minisode I share some of what I have learned so far from "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology" by Thomas H. McCall and Keith D. Stanglin. In this minisode I focus on the first part of Chapter 2: "Heart and Light" which focuses on the Dutch Remonstrants after the death of Arminius. We will see the good, bad, and the ugly in Dutch Remonstrantism with a focus on Simon Episcopius and Philip van Limborch. Stay tuned for a follow-up minisode that will focus on English Arminianism later this week.  Buy a copy of "After Arminius" for yourself before the next minisode drops: "After Arminius" on Amazon 

In this minisode I will be reading through an excerpt of a sermon by George Whitefield titled, "The True Way of Keeping Christmas." You can find this sermon in a free Ebook from Seedbed which you could download as a PDF. The link is below. Merry Christmas everyone from Remonstrance podcast!  Free Ebook: Twelve Christmas Sermons (Seedbed)

Merry Christmas everyone! Are you trying to find the perfect gift for yourself or a fellow theology nerd or seminary student? Then listen to this episode! In this episode, I go over my favorite Wesleyan-Arminian theology books to put on your Christmas list to buy for yourself or someone else. I also share some interesting new theology books I have read this past year. We hope you have a very merry and theology filled Christmas from all of us here at Remonstrance Podcast. Links: Systematic Theology Classic Christianity by Thomas Oden Theological Institutes by Richard Watson (Lexham Press) Introduction to John Wesley Wesley on the Christian Life by Fred Sanders John Wesley by Henry H. Knight More in Depth Wesleyan Theological Studies The Theology of John Wesley by Kenneth J. Collins On Audible John Wesley’s Teachings by Thomas Oden Commentaries Romans (V.1), Romans (V.2), Ephesians, 1&2 Peter, 1&2&3 John and Jude by Vic Reasoner Interesting Theology Born Again by Sean McGever Against God and Nature by Thomas McCall  Arminian Theology Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace by Keith Stanglin and Thomas McCall  Arminius and His Declaration of Sentiments by W. Stephen Gunter Most Exciting New Book After Arminius by Keith Stanglin and Thomas McCall 

This is the final part of our interview with Keith Stanglin. In this episode we discuss the question of whether or not Arminius held to Middle Knowledge in his theology. Then we discuss the important question of whether or not Arminius could truly be categorized as "Reformed." Then we talk about whether or not the Synod of Dort truly condemned the theology of Arminius or only the theology of the Remonstrants who came after Arminius. We end by talking about whether or not Keith and Tom are going to make this a trilogy. Hopefully they will!  Click the link below to Keith and Tom's new book:  "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology"

In this episode we continue our interview with Keith Stanglin! In this episode we talk about his new book "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology." Keith gives an overview of the new book which he co-authored with Thomas McCall. Then we discuss whether there is an inherent problem in Arminian Theology that leads it to take a "leftward shift" over time. Then we discuss how faithful John Wesley and the Early Methodist theologians were to the theology of Arminius. Then we ask Keith to weight in on the division between "Reformed Arminians" and "Wesleyan-Arminians." Should this division actually exist? Why or why not? Stay tuned for our next episode for the final part of our interview with Keith Stanglin.  Order Keith and Tom's new book! According to Amazon it will be released today!  "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology"  

In this series of episodes, we had the opportunity to interview Keith Stanglin! In this episode, Keith discusses how he originally became interested in Arminian theology and a little about his theological journey. He also discusses what led him to write "Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace." Keith shares what it was like to study the theology of Arminius at Calvin Seminary under the guidance of Richard Muller. Keith then discusses what the greatest strengths of Arminian theology and why so few people have conducted scholarly studies of the theology of Arminius. In the next episode, we will discuss Keith's new book "After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology." Stay tuned!  Keith Stanglin is the co-author of: Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace (Order Now!) After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology (Pre-Order Now!) 

In this episode we continue to discuss the issue of politics and voting with Election Day only a week away here in the United States. In this episode we will begin by focusing on how Wesley taught we should engage in civil discourse especially with those that we disagree with on political issues. When then discuss Wesley's position on slavery and the slave trade and how although he leaned "Tory" in his politics he was one of the most outspoken opponents of slavery in the 18th Century. We then conclude the episode discussing Wesley's advice on voting. We encourage you to post this or tweet this on Election Day: “October 6, 1774 I met those of our society who had votes in the ensuing election, and advised them 1. To vote, without fee or reward, for the person they judged most worthy 2. To speak no evil of the person they voted against, and 3. To take care their spirits were not sharpened against those that voted on the other side.” ― John Wesley, The Journal of John Wesley  

In this episode we jump into the issue of politics and voting as Election Day approaches here in the United States. We will be focusing on how to navigate through this complex and difficult political season as Christians and specifically seeing what John Wesley had to say. In this episode we will discuss the political context that Wesley lived in. Then we will focus on what it meant to "speak from the center" during the time of John Wesley and what it means to "speak from the center" today. How can Wesley appear to be both a "Tory" and a "Whig" at the same time? We will also focus on what he had to say about political partisanship during the time of the American Revolution and what motivated Wesley to oppose the American Revolution. We hope you enjoy this episode. Look out for the next episode that will drop next week.  Links: Fundamental Wesleyan Society Website  FWS Podcast Also Pre-Order Keith Stanglin and Thomas McCall's new book!  After Arminius: A Historical Introduction to Arminian Theology

Reformation month is coming in October! In honor of the 503rd Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation we will be releasing a series of two lectures this month about the life of the Reformer Ulrich Zwingli given at Wesley Chapel (our church) last year. Enjoy learning about Zwingli and Happy Reformation month from all of us here at Remonstrance Podcast. Link to Power Point Used: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VBHbtzeGQj1oXkulHKcfEzQ2VYZrWzNo/view?usp=sharing

Reformation month is coming in October! In honor of the 503rd Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation we will be releasing a series of two lectures this month about the life of the Reformer Ulrich Zwingli given at Wesley Chapel (our church) last year. Enjoy learning about Zwingli and Happy Reformation month from all of us here at Remonstrance Podcast. Link to Power Point Used: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VBHbtzeGQj1oXkulHKcfEzQ2VYZrWzNo/view?usp=sharing    

This is the second part of a lecture by Dr. Vic Reasoner titled, "The Scapegoat of Calvinism." We hope you enjoy it and learn from it as much from it as we did. If you are interested in hearing more content like this from Dr. Vic Reasoner then check out our sister podcast "The FWS Podcast." Link below.  FWS Podcast

This is the first part of a lecture by Dr. Vic Reasoner titled, "The Scapegoat of Calvinism." We hope you enjoy it and learn from it as much from it as we did. The second part will be dropped next week. If you are interested in hearing more content like this from Dr. Vic Reasoner then check out our sister podcast "The FWS Podcast." Link below.  FWS Podcast

In this episode we will continue our discussion of the Wesleyan perspective on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We will continue to be reading sections of the article, "Wesley, the Almost Charismatic" by Peter J. Bellini. Our conversation primarily focuses on how although Wesley was not a charismatic "in theory" he was a charismatic "in practice." We will specifically focus on how Wesley evaluated all extraordinary gifts in light of both his "holiness hermeneutic" and the authority of Scripture. We end the episode discussing Bellini's verdict that Wesley was "An Almost Charismatic."    Wesley Chapel Podcast (Sermons preached by Vin and Ben) available on Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud, and Stitcher  "Wesley, the Almost Charismatic" by Peter J. Bellini 

In this episode we will continue to explore the Wesleyan perspective on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. As our guide we will be reading through an article titled, "Wesley, the Almost Charismatic" by Peter J. Bellini. Our conversation will primarily focus on how Wesley emphasized the "ordinary fruits" of the Holy Spirit rather than the "extraordinary gifts" of the Holy Spirit. We will also discuss that while Wesley was not a charismatic "in theory" he was not a cessationist either. We will continue discussing this article in the next episode of Remonstrance.  "Wesley, the Almost Charismatic" by Peter J. Bellini  Firebrand Magazine 

In this episode we will continue to explore the Wesleyan perspective on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. To do this we will continue to focus specifically on the views of John Wesley. We start off discussing Wesley's views on the gifts of the Spirit and how he determined what was a genuine work of the Holy Spirit and what was "fanaticism." We then discuss the distinction he made between the "ordinary" gifts of the Spirt and the "extraordinary" gifts of the Spirt.  The article we are reading through is: "Wesley and Charisma: An Analysis of John Wesley's View of Spiritual Gifts" 

In this episode we will begin exploring the Wesleyan perspective on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. To do this we will be focusing specifically on the views of John Wesley. We start off discussing the differences between cessationism versus continuationism. Then we provide a historical overview of what else was going on in the Protestant world at the time of Wesley. We will focus on the views of the Calvinists, Puritans, and Anglicans during Wesley's time. Then we will look at the views of the Lutherans, Pietists, and Moravians. Then we will look at the views of John Wesley and see how they compared to his Protestant contemporaries. The article we are reading through is: "Wesley and Charisma: An Analysis of John Wesley's View of Spiritual Gifts"  Other Links: Introduction to Wesleyan Theology I by Kenneth J. Collins Introduction to Wesleyan Theology II by Kenneth J. Collins The Theology of John Wesley Audiobook by Kenneth J. Collins Christ is the Cure Interview with Remonstrance  Daily Reformation Interview with Remonstrance  SEA YouTube Interview with Remonstrance 

This is the final part in a three part series where we interview Arminian scholar Richie Clark about current issues in Arminian scholarship. In this part of the interview Richie discusses the place of Middle Knowledge in Arminianism. He discusses different perspectives on whether or not Middle Knowledge has a place in Arminian theology and what specific type of Middle Knowledge Arminius likely utilized in his theology.  Resources: Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace The Transforming Power of Grace Beyond Dordt and De Auxiliis  God's Twofold Love  

This is the second part in a three part series where we interview Arminian scholar Richie Clark about current issues in Arminian scholarship. In this part of the interview Richie discusses the differences between "Reformed Arminianism" and "Wesleyan-Arminianism." He also discusses why this issue is so complicated. We also spend time talking about what it means to be a "Classical Arminian." We also spend time discussing the issues of Prevenient Grace and the doctrine of Imputation. We specifically focus on the issue of the imputation of Christ's "Active" Righteousness to the believer. Make sure you join us for the final part of the interview.  Resources Mentioned:  Four Views on Eternal Security

This is the first part in a three part series where we interview Arminian scholar Richie Clark about current issues in Arminian scholarship. In this part of the interview Richie shares his theological journey of how he became an Arminian. We then discuss his Master's Thesis: "The Calvinism of Arminius." Then he shares his current Ph.D. research in the area of early 17th Century Anglican expressions of Arminian theology. Make sure you join us for parts two and three of this fascinating interview.  Resources: Deviant Calvinism: Broadening Reformed Theology From Faith to Faith 

While under quarantine because of the COVID-19 Pandemic we continue to discuss the Means of Grace and how we can grow in them during this season. In this episode we focus on John Wesley's sermon, "The Means of Grace." First, we discuss what Wesley taught regarding the Means of Grace that: 1) God is above all means; 2) there is no power in the means; 3) they are not meritorious; 4) grace is dispensed by the power of his Spirit and the merits of his Son; 5) seek God alone. We then discuss the three chief means of grace: prayer, searching the Scriptures, and the Lord's Supper. We then look at the end of the sermon when we discuss some practical applications.  Links: "The Means of Grace" by John Wesley  "How John Wesley's Means of Grace Should Impact Our Christian Witness" by Andrew Dragos (Seedbed) E-Sword Bible Study Software 

While under quarantine because of the COVID-19 Pandemic we decided to record a series of episodes on the Means of Grace. We discuss how we can we grow in our use of the Means of Grace during quarantine. We then talk about how the use of the corporate Means of Grace has been impacted under quarantine and how fellowship with the members of our church has changed. We also define "the Means of Grace" and discuss how John Wesley defines the Means of Grace. We also discuss how many different types of Means of Grace there are. We hope this episode is an encouragement to you and that you find ways to grow in the Means of Grace during quarantine.  Links: Introduction to Wesleyan Theology I (Dr. Kenneth J. Collins) "The Means of Grace" by John Wesley 

In this episode we will continue to discuss the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic and how the doctrine of divine providence can encourage us during this season. For this whole episode we will be discussing sections of John Wesley's sermon "On Divine Providence." We will be discussing how how the doctrine of divine providence as explained by Wesley in his sermon can provide comfort to us during this difficult season. Follow the link below to follow along:  "On Divine Providence" by John Wesley

In this episode we will be discussing the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic and how the doctrine of providence can encourage us during this season. We will start by discussing what is going on in the world and our nation in the midst of this Pandemic. Then we will discuss how it is impacting our every day life and specifically the church. We will then begin discussing the meaning of providence with help from Thomas Oden and how the doctrine of providence can bring encouragement during this difficult season. Next episode we will be jumping in John Wesley's sermon "On Divine Providence." You should read it before next episode. Link below.  "On Divine Providence" by John Wesley  

In this episode we continue to discuss baptism and the views of Wesley and Arminius on baptism. This episode focuses on Wesley's views of baptism. Wesley's views on baptism are a little less straightforward than Arminius. We begin by discussing Wesley's thoughts on Paedobaptism and then we discuss his views regarding the relationship of regeneration and baptism. Then we talk about the question of original sin and how it relates to baptism within a Wesleyan framework. We end with some practical reflections on the subject of baptism from a pastoral perspective. 

In this episode we begin to discuss baptism and the views of Wesley and Arminius on baptism. We start off by discussing the two major perspectives on baptism within Christianity: Credobaptism and Paedobaptism. Then we discuss how each side supports their position as well as what our views on baptism are. We end the episode discussing the views of Jacob Arminius on baptism. Next episode we will discuss Wesley's views on baptism so stay tuned.  Links: Biblical Training "The Theology of John Wesley" by Kenneth J. Collins on Audible "Born Again" by Sean McGever on Lexham Press and Amazon  

For our episodes this month we will be releasing a lecture by Dr. Vic Reasoner on why inerrancy is compatible with Evangelical Wesleyanism. Dr. Reasoner is the chairman of the Fundamental Wesleyan Society and the author of numerous books including The Importance of Inerrancy. He is also the editor of The Arminian Magazine, a publication of the Fundamental Wesleyan Society. In this lecture Dr. Reasoner exposes the myth that the doctrine of inerrancy is incompatible with Evangelical Wesleyanism and instead shows how it was in fact the historic position of Wesleyan-Arminianism including the position of John Wesley himself. If you are interested in learning more about the Fundamental Wesleyan Society and subscribing to The Arminian Magazine then please visit their website: fwponline.cc Additional links: Do (Wesleyan) Arminians Believe in Inerrancy? (Article)

For our episodes this month we will be releasing a lecture by Dr. Vic Reasoner on why inerrancy is compatible with Evangelical Wesleyanism. Dr. Reasoner is the chairman of the Fundamental Wesleyan Society and the author of numerous books including The Importance of Inerrancy. He is also the editor of The Arminian Magazine, a publication of the Fundamental Wesleyan Society. In this lecture Dr. Reasoner exposes the myth that the doctrine of inerrancy is incompatible with Evangelical Wesleyanism and instead shows how it was in fact the historic position of Wesleyan-Arminianism including the position of John Wesley himself. If you are interested in learning more about the Fundamental Wesleyan Society and subscribing to The Arminian Magazine then please visit their website: fwponline.cc Additional links: Do (Wesleyan) Arminians Believe in Inerrancy? (Article)

In this episode we continue our conversation with David Martinez about a Wesleyan understanding of suffering and theodicy. In this episode we focus on how specifically Wesleyan theology gives us comfort and strength in suffering. Then we share encouragement to all those who are facing seasons of trial and suffering. We pray this episode is an encouragement to you in whatever you are facing. God bless and Merry Christmas from all of us here at Remonstrance Podcast. 

In this episode we are joined again by David Martinez to discuss a Wesleyan understanding of suffering and theodicy. First, we will discuss what theodicy means and then talk about why it is important to have a theodicy to answer questions about suffering. We will then contrast the Calvinist explanation of suffering with the Wesleyan-Arminian explanation. Make sure you don't miss the second part of the conversation.  Links: Fundamental Wesleyan Publishers Bookstore  An Interview with Author Joseph D. McPherson  

This episode is the final part of an excellent lecture by Dr. Vic Reasoner titled, "What is a Wesleyan?" This lecture was presented at the 2018 Fundamental Wesleyan Society Conference. Dr. Reasoner is the Chairman of the Fundamental Wesleyan Society and the editor of the Arminian magazine. If you want to listen to more lectures on Wesleyan theology check out our sister podcast, "the FWS podcast." Also, if you are interested in learning more about the FWS and possibly subscribing to the Arminian magazine check out the link below.  The Fundamental Wesleyan Society  The FWS Podcast 

This episode is the first part of an excellent lecture by Dr. Vic Reasoner titled, "What is a Wesleyan?" This lecture was presented at the 2018 Fundamental Wesleyan Society Conference. Dr. Reasoner is the Chairman of the Fundamental Wesleyan Society and the editor of the Arminian magazine. If you want to listen to more lectures on Wesleyan theology check out our sister podcast, "the FWS podcast." Also, if you are interested in learning more about the FWS and possibly subscribing to the Arminian magazine check out the link below.  The Fundamental Wesleyan Society  The FWS Podcast 

Happy Reformation month everyone! In honor of the 502nd Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation we will be releasing a series of two lectures this month about the later years of Martin Luther's life given at Wesley Chapel (our church) last year. These lectures pick up right where the two from last year left off (see Episodes 49 and 50). Enjoy the lectures and Happy Reformation Day from all of us here at Remonstrance Podcast.  Link to Power Point Used: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IIwbThGEfAV54Df28-bXAfttWyrQl8Ab/view?usp=sharing

Happy Reformation month everyone! In honor of the 502nd Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation we will be releasing a series of two lectures this month about the later years of Martin Luther's life given at Wesley Chapel (our church) last year. These lectures pick up right where the two from last year left off (see Episodes 49 and 50). Enjoy the lectures and Happy Reformation Day from all of us here at Remonstrance Podcast.  Link to Power Point Used: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IIwbThGEfAV54Df28-bXAfttWyrQl8Ab/view?usp=sharing  

In this episode we will continue to discuss some specifics regarding the doctrine of Justification by diving into the topic of Imputation and Impartation. First, we will be diving into some scholastic theology. What is the difference between the Formal Cause and Meritorious Cause when it comes to Justification? What did Wesley affirm regarding this question? What about the Active and Passive righteousness of Christ? After discussing this we will move on and discuss why Wesley was so specific about his teaching on Justification. We will then talk about how Wesley was doing what he was doing to defend the doctrine of Justification from distortions. Often Wesley is portrayed (wrongly) as being an attacker of the Doctrine of Justification. When in reality he was defending the Doctrine of Justification from distortion. Look below for the resources we used.  Links: Wesley on Imputation by Woodrow W. Whidden  Imputed and Imparted Righteousness (2) by Dr. Vic Reasoner 

In this episode we will begin discussing some specifics regarding the doctrine of Justification by diving into the topic of Imputation and Impartation. Did Wesley believe in the imputation of righteousness? Why was he so hesitant and careful when promoting this teaching? Can it lead to Antinomianism? We will discuss carefully what Wesley affirmed about this teaching and what he was concerned about. Follow the links below for the articles we received help from in this episode.  Links: Wesley on Imputation by Woodrow W. Whidden  Imputed and Imparted Righteousness by Dr. Vic Reasoner 

In this episode we will continue discussing the very important (and controversial) topic of falling away or Christian apostasy. This time we will briefly discuss the views of John Wesley primarily using Thomas C. Oden's book "John Wesley's Teaching Volume 2: Christ and Salvation." We then talk about the similarities between the views of Wesley and Arminius. Next we discuss how both "once saved always saved" and "once saved barely saved" are dangerous extremes and neither are biblical. We will then briefly discuss some of the small differences between Arminius and Wesley which primarily have to do with language and emphasis. Finally, we wanted to let you all know about some great Wesleyan-Arminian theology books available through the Fundamental Wesleyan Society. If you are interested follow the link below.  FWP Bookstore John Wesley's Teachings by Thomas C. Oden

In this episode we will begin discussing the very important (and controversial) topic of falling away or Christian apostasy. We will begin by discussing the recent public denial of the faith by the popular author Joshua Harris. We will then discuss how a Christian should respond to another believer falling away from the faith. What is a helpful response? What is an unhelpful response? We will then briefly discuss some verses that deal with the issue (there are a lot). We then spend the rest of the episode discussing the teaching of Arminius on apostasy and use "Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace" by Keith Stanglin and Thomas McCall as a guide. Arminius did believe that a true believer can fall away but how does one fall away? Is it only a complete renunciation of the faith or is it possible to grievously sin and fall away? Listen to find out. We will continue next episode and focus on the teaching of John Wesley on apostasy so stay tuned.  You NEED to buy "Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace" if you have not already done so. Follow this link: "Jacob Arminius: Theologian of Grace" by Keith Stanglin and Thomas McCall    

In this episode we will continue to discuss the very important doctrine of Prevenient Grace. We will begin by sharing and discussing biblical support for the doctrine. There is actually a lot throughout the whole Bible. We will then talk about the subtle but very important differences between Semi-Augustinianism and Soft Semi-Augustinianism. We then end the episode talking about the implications of the doctrine of Prevenient Grace. How does it impact our philosophy of ministry? How will it impact how church services are conducted?  Links: What is Prevenient Grace by Andrew Dragos  A Preliminary Defense of Prevenient Grace by Steve Witzki (FWS)

In this episode we will begin to discuss the very important doctrine of Prevenient Grace. This doctrine separates Wesleyan-Arminian theology from all forms of Pelagianism and Reformed theology. We will begin by defining Prevenient Grace with help from Thomas Oden. Then we will discuss an article by Andrew Dragos from Seedbed. We will talk about the benefits of Prevenient Grace as described by Wesley (via. Kenneth J. Collins) and find scriptural support for them. Then we will discuss the differences between the Wesleyan-Arminian Doctrine of Prevenient Grace and the Reformed Doctrine of Common Grace. What is the difference? Which one is better news for the sinner? We will then discuss whether Prevenient Grace or Irresistible Grace is more similar to our personal testimonies. We will continue this conversation in our next episode so stay tuned.  Links: What is Prevenient Grace by Andrew Dragos  Buy This! The Transforming Power of Grace by Thomas C. Oden 

In this series of episodes we will be discussing the Synod of Dort again along with the events that followed it. To do this we will continue reading through portions of an article by Kevin D. Young titled, "The Four Hundred Year Flower: Arminius, Dort, and the Battle for Grace" published on Desiring God. In this episode we will be discussing how the politics of the Netherlands surrounding the Synod of Dort dictated to how it was decided. We will also discuss how it was by no means a fair debate. We will also be discussing how the Synod of Dort defined what it meant to be "Reformed" in a way it was not clearly defined before. We will also discuss how the Arminian understanding of grace is different from the Calvinist understanding of grace. Finally, we will talk about what happened to the Remonstrant leaders after their "defeat" at the Synod of Dort.  Links: The Four Hundred Year Flower: Arminius, Dort, and the Battle for Grace" by Kevin DeYoung  Arminius: A Study in the Dutch Reformation by Carl Bangs