The Carson Center Podcast

In this lecture, Don Carson examines Romans 3:21–26 as the theological heart of the gospel, where God's righteousness is revealed apart from the law and made available to all through faith in Jesus Christ. Carson emphasizes the necessity of understanding human sin, idolatry, and divine wrath to fully grasp the weight of Christ's sacrifice. Carson highlights the transformative power of the gospel, which both justifies and renews believers through God's grace.

In this lecture, Don Carson examines John 3:1-21 to discuss the complexity of the gospel, emphasizing its transformative nature. Carson critiques the view that the gospel is merely a gateway to discipleship and highlights the importance of being born again. Carson explains that new birth involves supernatural transformation, grounded in God's love and action.He teaches the following:The gospel is good news about what God has done in Christ's cross and resurrectionThe historical context of the Reformation and The Great AwakeningNicodemus's significance as a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish councilThe new birth is a miraculous, supernatural transformation, not just a change of mindWhy Jesus could speak authoritatively about the new birthHow Jesus's crucifixion parallels the bronze snake in Numbers 21Why Jesus's unique revelatory claim is central to understanding the gospel

Don Carson explores the theme of waiting, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for Jesus's return. Through examining Matthew 24 and 25, Carson teaches that true believers are marked by faithful service and transformed lives. Carson stresses that such service reflects genuine faith and leads to eternal reward.He teaches the following:The importance of being prepared and faithful in waiting for Jesus's returnThe parable of the talents symbolizes the relationship between believers and ChristMatthew 25 displays the natural outflow of a transformed lifeThe importance of caring for fellow believers as an expression of love for ChristThose who serve others are identified with Christ, and their actions are seen as acts of service to HimTrue transformation involves a change in relationships and prioritiesThose who are transformed by the gospel will be rewarded for their actionsThe transformation of believers is a sign of true faith and commitment to Christ

In this lecture, Don Carson contrasts cultural visions of the end of the world with a Christian focus on spiritual readiness. Through examining three parables in Matthew, Carson urges believers to stay alert and serve faithfully as they wait for Christ's return. Carson encourages believers to think strategically, live responsibly, and train the next generation.He teaches the following:Why the Western society avoids discussing mortalityThe importance of being ready at any time for Jesus's returnWhat the story of Noah reveals about the suddenness and unexpectedness of judgmentThe need for readiness and the consequences of being unpreparedWhy Christians should think strategically about their long-term responsibilitiesThe importance of training the next generation and planning for the future

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses John 11, focusing on Jesus's delayed response to Lazarus's illness and subsequent death. Carson highlights the irony in this account, illustrating how Jesus's actions reveal his sovereignty over death and his role as the resurrection and the life, ultimately pointing to his future sacrifice. Carson reflects on the broader implications of Jesus's death and resurrection, underscoring the fulfillment of God's plan for salvation.He teaches the following:Why understanding Jesus's claim as the resurrection and the life requires seeing it in the context of unfolding ironyHow Jesus demonstrated his love by delaying his response to Lazarus's deathThe narrative framework highlights Jesus's love for Martha, Mary, and LazarusThe mixed responses to Jesus's actions from the Jewish audienceThe fulfillment of Caiaphas's prophecy reveals that Jesus's death is also for the scattered children of GodJesus's resurrection power has an ongoing impact, both in individual lives and in future resurrection on the last day

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses John 10:1–21, emphasizing Jesus as the Good Shepherd who knows, nurtures, and lays down his life for his sheep. He contrasts Jesus with thieves, showing that, unlike them, Jesus sacrifices for his sheep and leads them with authority and care. Carson reflects on the practical implications of this metaphor for believers and church leaders, urging them to understand and follow Jesus's example.He teaches the following:The historical context of shepherding in the first-century Middle EastHow the metaphor of the shepherd is used to describe Jesus's relationship with his followersHow John 10 connects to Old Testament themes of shepherds and their roles, particularly Isaiah 56 and Jeremiah 23How the metaphor of the gate describes Jesus's role in leading and nurturing believersHow the metaphor of the shepherd illustrates the pastoral care that church leaders should provideThe key points of Jesus's relationship with his people: knowledge, nurturing, sacrifice, and transformation

In this lecture, Don Carson examines Jesus as the “Bread of Life” in John 6 who offers eternal fulfillment through his death and resurrection. Carson emphasizes that true belief in Jesus is the work of God and the way to eternal life. Jesus's sacrifice is portrayed as the ultimate sign of his authority and the source of salvation for the world.He teaches the following:The contextual significance of bread in first-century PalestineJesus's role as the true manna, and its parallel to the Old Testament account of manna in the wildernessJesus's miracles are meant to demonstrate his ability to provide for our needsJesus is the ultimate source of eternal life, not just physical sustenanceThe role of God the Father in drawing people to Jesus and ensuring their salvationWhy Jesus's death and resurrection are central to the metaphor of Jesus as the living breadWhy Jesus's role as the Bread of Life is central to understanding his mission

In this lecture, Don Carson focuses on Jesus's healing on the Sabbath in John 5:16–30, which led to Jewish persecution. Carson explores the theological implications of Jesus's sonship, his authority in judgment, and his role in fulfilling Old Testament prophecies. Carson also emphasizes the importance of understanding Jesus's identity and the need for believers to deepen their worship and evangelism through knowledge of God's revelation in Christ.He teaches the following:Paul and John's differing perspectives on sonshipHow Jesus's response to the Jews elevates the discussion to a theological levelWhy the Father's love for the Son is foundational to the gospelThe Son's authority in judgment is rooted in his identity as the Son of ManJesus is the fulfillment of Old Testament feasts, laws, and institutionsProper knowledge of God and his revelation is essential for effective evangelism and spiritual growth

In this lecture, Don Carson explores Jesus's conversation with Nicodemus in John, where Jesus teaches the necessity of being "born again" through the Spirit for spiritual renewal and entry into the Kingdom of God. Carson explains the symbolism of light and darkness in the passage, connects new birth to Old Testament promises, and highlights the transformative power of the Spirit. Carson also discusses the role of faith in receiving eternal life, with God's love as the motivation behind Jesus's sacrifice.He teaches the following:How Jesus's response to Nicodemus challenges his understanding of the Kingdom of GodThe theme of light versus darkness illustrates the spiritual blindness of unbelieversHow the concept of new birth is rooted in Old Testament passagesNicodemus's confused focus on national transformation instead of personal renewalHow Jesus challenges Nicodemus to accept his testimony based on his divine authorityThe love of God is the motivation for Jesus's sacrifice and the new birth

In this lecture, Don Carson examines Jesus's cleansing of the temple in John 2:13–25, which symbolized his role as the ultimate meeting place between God and humanity. Carson explores the historical and theological context of Jesus's actions, contrasting the old and new covenants. He also highlights Jesus as the final temple in Revelation, calling Christians to a God-centered approach to life and worship.He teaches the following:Jerusalem's unique role in Jewish historyThe temple's historical and cultural significanceHow the Gospel accounts of this event support its historical accuracyTwo important lessons from Jesus's cleansing of the templeJesus's claims about himself require a response of worship and faithJesus is the fulfillment of various Old Testament types and symbolsThe Gospels' primary purpose to reveal Jesus and call people to faithWhy Jesus as the temple has implications for how Christians live and worship today

In this lecture, Don Carson explores the profound theological themes in the prologue of John's Gospel (John 1:1–18), emphasizing the significance of the Word (Logos) as both the inner thought of God and the outward expression of his self-disclosure. Carson highlights the dual roles of the Word as light and life, and he contrasts the law given through Moses with the grace received through Jesus Christ.He teaches the following:The contextual significance of the Word (Logos)How John's prologue is connected to Genesis 1The Word is the light of men and the life that prepares them for eternityWitness as a theme in John's GospelHow John the Baptist's role as witness sets the stage for the IncarnationHow the Word confronts and divides humanityThe significance of Jesus as the ultimate revelation of God

In this lecture, Don Carson examines the final consummation of God's plan as described in Revelation 21 and 22. He emphasizes the transformation of the universe into a new heaven and new earth free from death, sin, and corruption. Carson explains the symbolic significance of the New Jerusalem, the River of Life, and the Tree of Life, underscoring the God-centered nature of the new creation.He teaches the following:Why it is essential to anticipate and pray for the end's arrivalThe implications of justice that will be witnessed at God's final consummationThe importance of storing treasures in HeavenHow earthly blessings can distract us from a heavenly perspectiveWhy believers should reflect on the new heavens and earthThe significance of God's new dwelling placeA description of the purity and perfection of the new creation

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses God's wrath, arguing that it is unavoidable judgment, not abstract punishment, as seen throughout Scripture. Carson explores key themes in Revelation 14, including the eternal gospel, the fall of Babylon, and the severity of God's wrath. He addresses the eternal reality of hell, urging listeners to reflect on the significance of the cross and the permanent consequences of sin.He teaches the following:Modern society's perception of anger and its contrast to righteous angerWhy Revelation 14 is a key text in exploring the theme of judgmentA definition of the eternal gospel mentioned in Revelation 14:6–7How Revelation 4–5 reveals God's purposes for judgment and blessingA reflection on Babylon as a symbol of arrogance and godlessnessHow biblical metaphors emphasize the inevitability of God's judgmentWhy contemplating hell should lead to a deeper understanding of God's love and sacrifice

In this lecture, Don Carson critiques Western individualism and its societal effects, explaining the church's unique role as an eternal institution distinct from the world. Carson emphasizes the transformative power of biblical grace, contrasting it with harmful uses of religion and secular ideologies, and he explains the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to live righteously. Carson highlights the global impact of Christian faith, illustrating how it leads to profound spiritual transformation and societal change.He teaches the following:A biblical perspective on the church as the only eternal human institutionHow Christianity is fundamentally different from other religious movementsThe role of grace in transforming individuals and societiesHow the cross has created peace between Jews and GentilesThe role of the Holy Spirit as a helper to believersWhy suffering for Jesus is a privilege and a giftHow evangelism brings a spiritual transformation that secular efforts alone cannot achieve

In this lecture, Don Carson explores the concept of God's justice and righteousness, particularly as presented in Romans 3:21-26. Carson explains that all humans are guilty before God because of their sin, and justification comes through faith, not works, which is available to all. Carson highlights that faith must be rooted in the truth of Jesus's life, death, and resurrection, and is essential for salvation, excluding any boasting of personal merit.He teaches the following:How Romans 1 argues the universality of human guilt before GodA contrast between Paul's view with humanity's contemporary self-perceptionThe absurdity of balancing good deeds and bad deeds for justificationThe heart of all evil is rebellion against GodHow rejecting God leads to self-destructive behaviorsGod's righteousness is provided through Christ Jesus as the propitiation for our sinsHow God's justice is demonstrated both in forgiving us and punishing sin

In this lecture, Don Carson explains the central role of Jesus's death and resurrection in Christian theology, stressing that understanding these events is key to grasping the gospel. Carson contrasts Jesus's death with that of other figures and highlights the unique nature of the canonical Gospels, particularly focusing on the ironies of Jesus's ultimate sacrifice. Carson emphasizes the importance of Jesus's resurrection and forgiveness of sins as foundational to Christian belief and reconciliation to God.He teaches the following:Why understanding the gospel requires grasping the significance of Jesus's death and resurrectionThe ironies in Matthew 27, a passage that records Jesus's deathHow Jesus's followers experienced a transformation of moral categoriesThe difference between historical accounts and cultural perceptionsThe importance of internal moral imperatives in Jesus's life and teachingsAn argument for Jesus's resurrection as a factual historical eventWhy Jesus's sacrifice is the only way to be reconciled to God

In this lecture, Don Carson explores the multifaceted nature of God's love as presented in the Bible, contrasting it with both historical and modern misconceptions. Carson outlines the five aspects of God's love and emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate measure of this love. Carson concludes by highlighting faith, gratitude, and humility as the appropriate responses to God's love, which offers life and salvation through Christ.He teaches the following:God's love for both believers and unbelievers is a central theme in the BibleGod's providential love is non-discriminating, extending to both the just and the unjustThe importance of understanding Scripture's diverse expressions of God's loveFaith is the means by which we come to experience God's love and lifeRepentance and gratitude are the appropriate responses to understanding God's love and salvation

In this lecture, Don Carson exposites John 3, explaining how spiritual birth is a transformative power from God that brings moral and spiritual change. Carson emphasizes the connection between this imagery, Jesus's death, and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Carson also explores the need for reconciliation to God, moral transformation, and the reversal of sin's effects. New birth is not a result of human effort but a life-changing process enabled by the Holy Spirit.He teaches the following:How the desire to challenge God and usurp his authority leads to social evils and strifeRebellion against God results in death, but God's mercy leads to a new humanity through AbrahamGod showed the need for sacrifice under the Old Covenant, promising a Redeemer from the Davidic lineJesus's revelation is grounded in his identity as God's own self-expressionThe new birth is grounded in Jesus's death, which provides the means for eternal life

In this lecture, Don Carson explores the biblical theme of the incarnation, explaining the Old Testament's anticipation of God's visitation which culminates in the New Testament. Carson shows how Jesus is the fulfillment of God's promises, embodying both judgment and mercy. And he highlights the significance of John's Gospel, emphasizing Jesus as God's self-expression and agent in creation, connecting these themes to the New Covenant.He teaches the following:God's declared promises of forgiveness, transformation, and an eternal Davidic KingThe linguistic significance of Jesus's name, and its connection to the theme of salvationThe historical interpretation of John 1:1–18, and its relation to the creation accountThe role of John the Baptist as a witness to the true LightHow the Old Testament law prepared the way for Jesus's arrivalWhy Jesus's sacrifice is the most profound display of God's glory

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses two depictions of God in the Bible: the God who inspires worship from his people and the God who is unfathomably wise, emphasizing the expression of these themes in the Psalms and Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament. Carson delves into key Psalms to highlight the contrasts between the righteous and the wicked, the importance of repentance, and the deep emotional and spiritual truths embedded in these texts. Carson also discusses the books of Job and Ecclesiastes, illustrating humanity's search for wisdom and ultimately pointing to Jesus as the fulfillment of wisdom and righteousness.He teaches the following:Two depictions of God in the Bible, and how these themes reflect literary genres in the Old TestamentThe linguistic meaning and historical significance of key phrases and metaphors in Psalm 1How Job's story reveals the limits of human understandingThe Book of Ecclesiastes teaches that true wisdom is attained by fearing GodThe Wisdom Literature of the Old Testament points to ultimate wisdom that is found in Jesus

In this lecture, Don Carson examines the biblical concept of God as the reigning King. He contrasts modern perceptions of monarchy with ancient understandings, and he traces the evolution of Israel's desire for a king. He explores God's promise to David of an enduring dynasty, the fulfillment of this promise through Solomon, and the covenant's ultimate fulfillment in Jesus—the eternal King. Carson also highlights the ongoing tension of God's kingdom being "already here and not yet come," with Jesus as the victorious King who will ultimately defeat death itself.He teaches the following:The Israelites were called into covenant with God, making him their Ruler and KingGod's promise to David was fulfilled in Solomon, but the dynasty faced challenges and corruptionAn overview of the Davidic kingdoms and their eventual schismJesus is the fulfillment of the Davidic covenant as the Messiah and the Son of DavidA biblical perspective on the continuous struggle despite the arrival of the promised King

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses God's role as both Creator and Legislator, challenging listeners to consider the Bible's laws and their relevance in today's society amidst objections to Christian morality. He explores the importance of boundaries in truth and freedom, drawing connections between God's laws, the Mosaic Covenant, and the story of the Israelites. Carson concludes by pointing to Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice that fulfills the law and reconciles humanity to God.He teaches the following:All communities have boundaries, and no community can be completely inclusiveTruth is inevitable and cannot be escaped, even in a post-modern contextWhy freedom must have discipline, and how this truth is biblically basedThe historical significance of each commandment in Exodus 20, and their relevance for Christians todayHow the Ten Commandments are related to God's self-disclosure in a redemptive actHow the sacrificial system fits into the broader storyline of God's relationship with his people

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses God's sovereignty and covenant promises as he unpacks Abraham's story in Genesis 12. Carson critiques common misconceptions about God's relationship with humanity, demonstrating how God's covenant with Abraham points to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. The lecture stresses the importance of understanding God's grace, as seen in Abraham's obedience and trust in God's promises. He teaches the following:The three common misconceptions of God's relationship with humanityWhy God does not need humanity's worship or obedienceWhy it's important to understand God's sovereignty and graceGod unconditionally fulfills his promises, even when humans failThe cultural significance of Abraham's obedience to GodThe story of Abraham and Isaac is a prefiguration of God's ultimate act of grace in sending his Son to die for humanity

Join Collin Hansen and Melissa Kruger for their annual discussion as they look back on the top theology stories of 2024. They also share their favorite books from 2024, updates on personal projects, and what they're each looking forward to in life and ministry in 2025. They discuss: The rise in Bible sales in 2024Declining fertility rates worldwideBig changes for the United Methodist Church and the role of the Global SouthThe advance of assisted suicide in the UKThe Cass Report and the truth about transgender treatmentsEncouraging signs among Gen ZTrump's election victory and a GOP shiftAnticipating the 2025 Gospelbound seasonBook highlights from 2024Personal projects and updatesDon Carson's legacy and an important update about his life and ministryMentioned on this episode:"My Top 10 Theology Stories of 2024" by Collin Hansen (article)Help The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson examines Genesis 3, focusing on the Serpent's deceit and humanity's rebellion, which leads to shame, guilt, and broken fellowship with God. He discusses the curses placed on Satan, Adam, and Eve, highlighting the introduction of sin and the long-term effects on creation. Carson emphasizes the need for reconciliation with God, pointing to the promise of redemption through Jesus.He teaches the following:How Satan openly contradicted God's Word in his temptationThe immediate and long-term consequences of sinThe foretelling of enmity between the Serpent's offspring and the woman's offspring points to future atonementHumanity's ultimate problem is alienation from God due to our willful rebellionHow the promise in Genesis 3 points to ultimate redemption through JesusHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson introduces a new series, “The God Who Is There.” He explores the creation account in Genesis, highlighting key attributes of God and humanity. Carson also emphasizes the importance of Genesis 1–2 for understanding the fall in Genesis 3, the concept of a new creation through Jesus, and the foundational differences between the biblical worldview and other religious or philosophical systems.He teaches the following:Why it's important to understand the Bible's organization and structureHow God reveals himself supremely through his WordThe significance of the creation narrativeHow creation's intelligent, complex design points to a DesignerThe attributes of God as revealed in Genesis 1–2How humanity bears God's imageHow the context of Genesis 1–2 helps us understand the fall in Genesis 3The connections between human responsibility and God'sHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson teaches mainly from Ezekiel 16, which describes Jerusalem's spiritual adultery and compares the city to an ungrateful prostitute who turns to infidelity. Carson also points to Israel's rebellion in forming a political alliance with Egypt. He explains that, despite the severe punishment described, God promised eventual restoration through an everlasting covenant when Jerusalem would repent and experience God's faithfulness.He teaches the following:Why Israel is compared to a “useless vine” and how it connects to the Bible's larger metanarrativeAbsolutizing any one form of God's love results in absurd theologyHow political alliances contributed to Israel's downfallGod remembered Jerusalem and established an everlasting covenant with herThe new covenant would bring atonement for Jerusalem's sinHow the metaphor of marriage and apostasy is used to illustrate the severity of Israel's rebellionThe importance of fidelity and the consequences of betrayal in both human and divine relationshipsThe imagery of marriage and atonement conveys God's enduring love for his peopleHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson contrasts false prophets, who lead others astray, with genuine prophets who speak truth grounded in God's revelation and call people to repentance. He emphasizes the importance of discernment in times of cultural decay and highlights the vitality of remaining faithfully rooted in the Scripture and committed to moral uprightness despite the pressures of a confused world.He teaches the following:Genuine prophets speak from God, while false prophets speak from imaginationFalse prophets will face divine judgment for their deceptionGenuine prophets call people to repentance and biblical knowledgeWhat's spoken by genuine prophets aligns with revealed redemptive historyGod's sovereignty embraces both good and evilFalse prophets are accepted by many, while genuine prophets are accepted by fewFaithfulness and discernment are necessary in a world that promotes moral relativismHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson focuses on Ezekiel's vision of God's glory and the departure of the divine presence from the temple in Ezekiel 10–11. He explores the prophetic denunciation of Israel's leaders, the promise of a new covenant, and the spiritual transformation of the people. Carson highlights the ultimate fulfillment of God's purposes as seen in Revelation, where his people dwell with him in the new heaven and earth.He teaches the following:How the departure of God's glory is a mark of judgmentGod's promise to gather the exiles and give them an undivided heartThe new covenant's removal of the need for mediating teachersHow John's vision in Revelation 5 reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to EzekielGod is always in control, and his way will triumphThe final consummation of God's promises is seen in the new heaven and earthHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses Ezekiel's visions from God in Ezekiel 8–9, which convey Jerusalem's widespread idolatry and sinfulness. He contrasts the corruptibility of false worship with the necessity of true worship, and he connects the importance of authentic worship to historical awakenings. Carson underscores that without a clear moral vision, society risks decay.He teaches the following:Ezekiel's denunciation of corrupt worship that relativized GodHow corrupt worship dulls moral vision and invites divine judgmentThe Western world's interest in worship and search for spiritualityThe idol of jealousy in Ezekiel's vision as an example of syncretismGod's judgment of participants of corrupt worship and his mercy on those who grieve over their sinHow Ezekiel's vision shows the moral impetus behind the Great AwakeningHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson examines Ezekiel's prophetic vision from God as recorded in Ezekiel 4–5. The prophet's actions symbolize Jerusalem's impending judgment because of their sin, and Carson highlights the inevitability of God's wrath and the need for repentance. He points to the seriousness of God's judgment in the Old Testament and the ultimate display of God's justice and mercy in the New Testament, particularly through the cross.He teaches the following:Ezekiel's prophetic actions convey the severity of God's coming judgmentGod's wrath is a necessary consequence of the people's wickednessWhy we must understand repentanceHow Ezekiel 4–5 fits into the context of the Bible's metanarrativeThe problem of humanity's sin requires a divine solutionThe cross is the ultimate expression of God's justice and mercyHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

Don Carson introduces the study of Ezekiel, focusing on chapters 1–3 and Ezekiel's calling amid visions of God's glory and the challenges of a rebellious nation. Carson delves into how Ezekiel faithfully spoke God's words, regardless of opposition, and calls listeners to similar boldness and faithfulness in today's culture.Carson teaches the following:Ezekiel's visions that reflect God's majesty and powerEzekiel's command to speak to IsraelEzekiel's call to speak to both the wicked and the righteousEzekiel's equipping to deliver God's words fearlesslyHow to speak God's truth boldly in a biblically illiterate cultureHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

 Don Carson discusses the strengths and weaknesses of new hermeneutics, arguing that while it offers helpful insights, all Scripture carries an enduring relevance that transcends cultural shifts. He emphasizes the need for humility in biblical interpretation, the clarity of Scripture, and the role of the Holy Spirit in understanding God's Word. He teaches the following:New hermeneutics must be balanced by Scripture's transcendent relevanceScripture is clear and accessible for all believers to understand and obeyGod's revelation is complete under the New CovenantUnderstanding Scripture requires both intellectual effort and the Holy Spirit's guidanceHow to evaluate command, sharing, and servant models of leadershipHumility and a teachable spirit are essential when interpreting God's WordHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

Don Carson addresses the challenge of biblical inerrancy and interpretation, particularly in the context of textual variants and modern pluralism. He emphasizes that while textual variations exist, they do not compromise major doctrines, and he calls for a deeper understanding of genre, grace, and cultural relevance in Scripture interpretation.He teaches the following:Why textual variants don't undermine inerrancy or key doctrinesGod's sovereignty shown through Scripture's preservationHow Genesis 1-3 combines history and symbolismCommon grace should not be twisted to oppose God's truthParables like the Good Samaritan should be modernized carefullyPluralism rejects objective truth, complicating evangelismBiblical interpretation must account for cultural relevance

In his lecture on Genesis 39, Don Carson examines the literary structure of the text and highlights Joseph's faithfulness in resisting temptation. Focusing on themes of faithfulness and divine blessing, and the significance of biblical parallelism, Carson compares Joseph's rise in Egypt with broader patterns of Hebrew poetry and scripture interpretation.He teaches the following:How the structure of the text highlights faithfulness and blessingParallelism in Hebrew poetry for its significance for understanding biblical textsThe importance of understanding biblical literary genreApplying wisdom literature in a pluralistic societyHow to interpret apocalyptic texts in light of their genreThe subjective nature of biblical interpretation and its implications for objective truthBiblical interpretation and cultural humilityHelp The Gospel Coalition build up a renewed church for tomorrow. Let's Build Together: Donate Today at tgc.org/together

In this lecture, Don Carson explores the role of logic in biblical study, emphasizing the multiple meanings of "logic" and the importance of avoiding exegetical fallacies. He highlights the tension between God's sovereignty and human responsibility, urging the development of a biblical framework for understanding these concepts rather than relying solely on systematic theology, while acknowledging the limitations of human understanding.He teaches the following: Logic, its various meanings, and its application in biblical studyBiblical interpretation and God's sovereigntyGod's sovereignty and human responsibilityLimitations of understanding God's nature and sovereigntyUnderstanding biblical theology and its application in evangelismStructure and interpretation of the Sermon on the Mount

Don Carson teaches on the complexities of interpreting 1 Timothy 2:12, emphasizing the need for a thoughtful, context-driven approach to gender roles in the church. He looks to other passages to challenge narrow interpretations of Scripture, urging believers to consider the broader biblical and linguistic context to faithfully understand God's design and Scripture's meaning.He teaches the following:Applying biblical interpretation principles to understand gender rolesUsing biblical language and meaning to avoid narrow interpretationsThe use of synonyms in John's GospelBiblical examples for the meaning of "love"Biblical metaphors and their cultural contextThe balance between God's sovereignty and human responsibility

Don Carson explores spiritual rebirth through Jesus's conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, emphasizing the distinction between natural and spiritual birth and God's essential role in salvation.He teaches the following:Spiritual birth and its relationship to natural birthThe importance of connecting expository preaching with broader biblical truthModeling good Bible study and application, rather than just teaching itUnderstanding the semantic range of words in different languagesThe evolution of words in the Bible and their changing meanings over time

Don Carson focuses on Jesus's message to the church in Laodicea and the parable of the 10 virgins in order to illustrate the importance of understanding biblical texts within their historical and cultural context.Carson teaches:How Jesus uses Laodicea's economic symbols to critique spiritual lukewarmnessHow the contextual reading of Scripture is an essential precursor to careful biblical exegesisThe symbolism behind Jesus's foot-washing and what it means for us today

Every Christian wants to know how to read their Bible well. Don Carson provides foundational principles for rightly handling God's Word and addresses challenges that may arise in biblical interpretation.He teaches:Principles of biblical interpretation that emphasize understanding cultural contextThe importance of using the whole Bible to interpret difficult passagesThe role of the original languages in understanding the ScripturesHow prayer shapes our study of the BibleHow to handle difficulties, using examples about baptism and the kingdom of God

What does it mean to be a faithful and wise servant in God's kingdom? In his lecture on the Olivet Discourse, Don Carson delves into Matthew 24:45–25:46, illustrating how faithfulness and wise stewardship of our God-given talents lead to greater responsibility and joy. He contrasts this with the fate of wicked servants, who will face punishment. Carson highlights the importance of being prepared and using God's gifts wisely as we await Christ's return, living faithfully in the present. 

Don Carson continues his lecture on the Olivet Discourse from Matthew 24:29–44, focusing on Jesus's return as the culmination of his reign, which began with his birth and continues through his resurrection and ascension. Drawing from Daniel 7:13-14, Carson highlights the eschatological significance of Jesus' victory over Satan and the signs preceding his return. He contrasts New Testament eschatology with WWII invasion analogies, stressing the suddenness and unpredictability of Christ's return, urging believers to remain vigilant and balanced in their understanding of Christ's second coming. 

Don Carson's lecture on the timing and nature of Jesus's second coming explores the tension between belief in an imminent return and the necessity of specific prophetic events preceding it. He critiques dispensationalist interpretations, arguing against the presence of clear signs preceding Christ's return and emphasizing biblical coherence in eschatological understanding. Carson encourages a balanced perspective on the Olivet Discourse that maintains readiness while respecting the biblical context of prophetic fulfillment.

Don Carson continues his teaching from the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24:1–28, expounding on the significant impact of apostasy on the church. He highlights the importance of discernment, warning against the dangers of false prophets who deceive many with both overt wickedness and subtle deception. Carson also emphasizes the need for accurate interpretation of biblical prophecy and urges the church to respond to persecution with bold gospel preaching and holiness.

Don Carson discusses Jesus' warnings of false prophets, wars, and persecution before the end times as outlined in Matthew 24:1–28. Carson suggests that Jesus's response to the disciples about the end times interweaves the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70 with his return. He emphasizes that the church should expect opposition and persecution as part of the period leading up to Jesus's return, and encourages Christians to be strengthened in prayer, looking to Jesus's prophecies and teachings for guidance and hope. 

Don Carson expounds on 1 John 5:4-21 and our assurance of salvation through faith in Christ. Carson addresses interpretations of John's writings, particularly the symbolism of water and blood, which affirm Jesus' baptism, death, and divine nature. Emphasizing the importance of grounding our assurance in God's promises, Carson encourages believers to deepen their understanding of Jesus' identity and the transformative power of faith in him, alone.

Don Carson teaches on 1 John 4:1–5:4, exploring the themes of truth and love and the importance of spiritual discernment. He encourages Christians to display God's character and nature through loving others and obeying God's commands, and he cautions us to distinguish between genuine spirituality and deceptive spiritual experiences. First John 4:1–3 is a crucial truth test, warning against false prophets and demonstrating the importance of acknowledging Christ's humanity.

Don Carson teaches on 1 John 2:28–3:24, which centers on Christlike love, obedience, and transformation. Carson reflects on the depth of God's love and the joy of being called a child of God, arguing we must imitate Christ as we live out this new identity. Carson teaches on the nature of sin, the significance of personal holiness, and the hope of Christ's return, urging Christians to purify themselves as Christ is pure.

Don Carson teaches on the importance of obedience to God and his Word as a true demonstration of knowing him, as emphasized in 1 John 2:3-27. Central to the Christian life is having and displaying a genuine love for others, which Carson highlights as a key indicator of living in the light of Christ, himself. He contrasts those who merely talk about faith with those who act on it and discusses the dangers of worldliness versus godliness. Carson also explores the cultural differences in expressing faith through his observations of diverse groups at Cambridge. He addresses the concept of antichrists and the end times in 1 John 2, urging believers to persevere in their faith and remember their hope in Christ. 

In this lecture on 1 John, Don Carson calls Christians to maintain gospel centrality, cautioning against an excessive focus on peripheral issues. He explores the details of John's letter, emphasizing our need for salvation through Christ, walking in the light of his righteousness, and demonstrating genuine love for others as evidence of true faith. Carson also teaches on confession, repentance, and how we are forgiven and reconciled to God through Christ's sacrifice.

Don Carson teaches on James 1:12–25, reminding believers to persevere amid suffering and temptation, looking to God's promises, goodness, and sovereignty to anchor them. Though trials can become temptations to sin, God doesn't tempt his people; he tests them to strengthen their faith and obedience. Carson highlights the importance of abiding in the word of God for spiritual growth and freedom, and he encourages Christians to count trials as joy because they lead to deeper spiritual maturity and faith in Christ.