The Pactum

All Christians agree that the Bible is important, but understanding what it means by what it says is more challenging. And more challenging still is how the Bible is to be taught. In this episode, Pat is joined by Dennis Johnson to talk about understanding and communicating the Bible as Christians and like Christians. Dennis Johnson is Professor Emeritus of Practical Theology at Westminster Seminary California, where he was a founding member of the faculty in 1982. He is the author of numerous books including Him We Proclaim, Walking with Jesus through His Word, and Journeys with Jesus.

When we fail to recognize the distinction between the law and the gospel, we fail to read the Bible like Christians. So wouldn't it be nice if we had a teaching tool, like a catechism, to help us with this crucial distinction? Thankfully, we do! Pat is joined today by Jay Wipf, author of the newly released Learning God's Two Words: A Brief Catechism on the Law and the Gospel. Jay is also the co-host of the RenewalCast. You can find more from Jay and connect with him at https://lawgospelcatechism.com

Have we been misguided when it comes to Bible interpretation? Joining Pat to talk about hermeneutics in this episode is Brandon D. Smith. Brandon is a professor at Oklahoma Baptist University, the host of the Church Grammar podcast, and author of Taught by God: Ancient Hermeneutics for the Modern Church.

Is there a coming judgment day for believers? On this episode of the Pactum, Pat is joined by T. Jeff Taylor who says, “There is no coming Judgment Day for the believer.” T. Jeff Taylor s a retired pastor, a graduate of Westminster Seminary California, the author of the book More Than Heaven: A Biblical Theological Argument for a Federal View of Glorification, and one who has done an excellent job of distilling the theological instruction of Meredith Kline. You can find more from Jeff on his website.

Meet your heroes! That is a favorite saying on The Pactum because showing honor where honor is due is one thing, but hero worship by Christians is just gross. And it is a real thing. On this episode Pat and Mike talk about Christian Celebrity Crushes. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Ordinary by Michael Horton

If you have been a Christian for even a brief time you know that Ephesians 2:8-9 teaches clearly that salvation is by grace through faith. But ask ten different people to define faith, and you may get ten different answers! In this episode, Pat and Mike talk about matters related to faith. What is it? What about faithfulness? Do people really oppose sola fide? Resources mentioned in this episode: - What is Faith by J. Gresham Machen - The Giver of Life by J.V. Fesko - Subjective and Objective Justification from LCMS

In this episode, Pat is joined by Johnny Gravino to talk about gospel ministry in Rome, Italy. You can find more about Johnny Gravino at Lifegate Worldwide

In this episode Pat is joined by Josh Lofthus to talk about life, ministry, and his podcast, The Reformatory. You can find more from Josh and The Reformatory on X @joshlofthus or @reformatorypod

Listen in to this Pactum Responsum episode where we answer listener questions. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction by Harrison Perkins - More Than Heaven: A Biblical Theological Argument for a Federal View of Glorification by Jeff Taylor - 40 Questions About Typology and Allegory by Mitchell Chase

Is the Bible pro sports? What is the ultimate motivation for an athlete? Listen in as Pat, joined by his son, Owen, talk about christians and sports.

From start to finish, salvation belongs to the Lord! In this episode, Pat and Mike talk about the book The Plan of Salvation by B.B. Warfield. You can download a free PDF of The Plan of Salvation here.

In this episode, Pat and Mike tackle the temple. It's not just some ancient building; it's a massive biblical theme that runs from Genesis to Revelation, revealing God's unique dwelling with His people. Resources mentioned in this episode: - The Temple by G.K. Beale and Mitch Kim - Last Things First by J.V. Fesko - The Temple and the Church's Mission: A Biblical Theology of the Dwelling Place of God by G.K. Beale

On this episode, Pat and Mike talk about the doctine of the active obedience of Christ in honor of the one year anniversary of the release of Pat's book, The Active Obedience of Christ. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Why Did Jesus Live a Perfect Life?: The Necessity of Christ's Obedience for Our Salvation by Brandon Crowe - The Lord Jesus Christ: The Biblical Doctrine of the Person and Work of Christ by Brandon Crowe - Death in Adam, Life in Christ: The Doctine of Imputation by J.V. Fesko

In this episode, Pat and Mike discuss five questions about Eastern Orthodoxy. 1. What is Orthodoxy? 2. Why care about Eastern Orthodoxy? 3. What are some of the major distinctions, and how do they differ from the Bible? 4. What is the appeal? 5. How should we respond?

In this episode Pat is joined by Jason Alligood to talk about the important doctrine of glorification. Jason has a Ph.D. from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and teaches at Cedarville University. He has just released Raised in Splendor: The Hope of Glorification for a Secular Age.

In this episode, Pat and Mike answer listener questions about the sabbath, justification, false gods, baptism, ministry, and more. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Ordinary by Michael Horton - Taught by God: Ancient Hermeneutics for the Modern Church by Brandon D. Smith - Preaching the Whole Bible as Christian Scripture by Graeme Goldsworthy - Him We Proclaim by Dennis Johnson - Canon, Covenant and Christology by Matthew Barrett - The Active Obedience of Christ by Patrick Abendroth - A Case for Amillenialism by Kim Riddlebarger - Chosen by God by R.C. Sproul

In this Pat is joined by Sam Renihan to talk about the unchangeable nature of God and the doctrine of impassability. Sam Renihan is pastor of Trinity Reformed Baptist Church in La Mirada, CA. He is the author of God Without Passions: The Majesty of God's Unshakeable Perfection. You can find Sam on X @Petty_France

Pat and Mike talk about seven motivations for prayer in this episode. This is not a guilt trip to make you feel bad about your prayer life, but a little nudge and encouragment to approach the throne of grace with confidence.

In this episode, Pat and Mike talk about what R.C. Sproul called God's favorite doctrine—the sovereignty of God.

In this episode we are talking about law and gospel with Mike Abendroth. Mike recently released the book, Law & Gospel: A Primer available here. You can find more from Mike Abendroth at No Compromise Radio.

Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah, the King and He is therefore reigning and will reign forever and ever! Join us on this episode of the Pactum as we discuss seven questions about Amillenialism. Resources mentioned in this episode: - A Call for Theological Triage and Christian Maturity by Albert Mohler - A Case for Amillennialism: Understanding the End Times by Kim Riddlebarger - Three Views on the Millennium and Beyond by Darrell L. Bock - Triumph of the Lamb: A Commentary on Revelation by Dennis E. Johnson

In this episode Pat sits down with special guest R. Scott Clark to talk about bad theology. They talk about pietism, biblicism, antinomianism, neonomianism, and more. R. Scott Clark is a minister in the URCNA, Professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Westminster Seminary California. He is the author of numerous books including the forthcoming The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological, and Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Press, 2025). He is also the founder of the Heidelberg Reformation Association, including the Heidelblog and the Heidelcast. -- This episode is sponsored by Reformation Heritage Books.

I never knew you, depart from me you who practice lawlessness! Could there be anything worse for anyone to hear from Jesus and how can one avoid hearing it on judgment day? Listen in as Pat and Mike discuss Matthew 7:21-23 and engage pertinent questions about the passage.

In this episode Pat and Mike answer listener questions about the Bible, theology, and Christian living. Resources mentioned in this episode: - Knowing God by J.I. Packer - Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God by J.I. Packer - On Covenant Theology by J.I. Packer - R.C. Sproul: A Life by Stephen J. Nichols - Not by Faith Alone: The Neonomianism of Richard Baxter by Michael Brown - Divorce and Remarriage in the Church: Biblical Solutions for Pastoral Realities by David Instone-Brewer - Covenant Theology by Patrick Abendroth - Chosen by God by R.C. Sproul

Life is filled with decisions to be made. So, what is the Christian to do? Follow the Bible? Yes. But what about when the Bible doesn't say? Listen in as Pat and Mike talk about some guiding principles for decision-making and gray areas.

Theological education is important so we're talking about it on this episode. Listen in as Pat and Mike talk about Theology for Breakfast, a ministry at Omaha Bible Church that has been helpful in training and educating men in the church.

In this episode Pat and Mike talk about the topic of good works. Are good works required for salvation? What should be the motivation for our good works? Listen in as they discuss these questions and more.

In this episode we are listening in to the sixth session from the 2024 Pactum Conference, God's Good Law. This session is titled “Theonomy and the Law” from conference speaker, David VanDrunen.

In this episode we are listening in to the fifth session from the 2024 Pactum Conference, God's Good Law. This session is titled “Legalism and Antinomianism” from conference speaker, Mike Abendroth.

In this episode we are listening in to the fourth session from the 2024 Pactum Conference, God's Good Law. This session is titled “Covenant Theology and the Law” from conference speaker, J.V. Fesko.

In this episode we are listening in to the third session from the 2024 Pactum Conference, God's Good Law. This session is titled “The Law's Three Uses” from conference speaker, J.V. Fesko

In this episode we are listening in to the second session from the 2024 Pactum Conference, God's Good Law. This session is titled “Natural Law” from conference speaker, David VanDrunen.

In this episode we are listening in to the first session from the 2024 Pactum Conference, God's Good Law. This session is titled "The Law-Gospel Paradigm" from conference speaker, Patrick Abendroth.

In this live episode, recorded at the 2024 Pactum Conference, Pat and Mike are joined by conference speakers J.V. Fesko, David VanDrunen, and Mike Abendroth to talk about matters related to law/gospel, theonomy, antinomianism, and the church.

In this episode, Pat and Mike continue their discussion on dispensationalism by talking about what it is, where it comes from, and some of its flaws.

In this episode Pat and Mike begin a series of episodes on dispensationalism. Listen in as they talk about what dispensationalism is, who started it, and what is its fatal flaw.

Pat and Mike discuss the matter of clarity in this episode. They talk about the importance of being clear and give some tools and tips to help you be clear whether you are teaching, preaching, writing, leading a Bible study, etc.  Resources mentioned in this episode: - The Big Picture Story Bible - The Unfolding Word by Zach Keele

In this episode Pat and Mike discuss seven reminders for this election season...and always!

In this episode Pat and Mike talk about the glory of God.

In this Pactum Responsum epidsoe Pat and Mike answer questions about assurance, law and gospel, expository preaching, and more.

In this episode Pat and Mike are joined by Steve Meister to talk about the doctrine of God. Steve Meister is the Pastor at Immanuel Baptist Church in Sacramento, CA.  Immanuel Baptist Church will be hosting the Sacramento Gospel Conference on September 20-21, 2024 with guest speaker James Dolezal. You can find more information and register here. Resources mentioned in this episode: - All That Is In God by James Dolezal - Deity and Decree by Sam Renihan - The Trinity: An Introduction by Scott Swain - None Greater by Matthew Barrett - Simply Trinity by Matthew Barrett

Why is it that so many Christians are miserable? On today's episode of the Pactum we will be discussing the need for Christians to think rightly about the gospel so that they might have joy, better relationships, and glorify God. Joining us for this episode is Chris Peterson, Associate Pastor at Omaha Bible Church.

On this episode Pat and Mike discuss the life and ministry of Charles Haddon Spurgeon with author Alex DiPrima. Alex's latest work on Spurgeon is a biography titled, Spurgeon: A Life and is available here at Reformation Heritage Books. Alex DiPrima is senior pastor of Emmanuel Church in Winston Salem, North Carolina. He holds a PhD from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in historical theology with a focus on the ministry of Charles Haddon Spurgeon. He is the author of Spurgeon and the Poor and has published several articles.

It's summertime at The Pactum! While we take a little break we want you to enjoy some of our favorite episodes. Today's episode is D.V.D. on Natural Law. In this episode, Pat sits down with David VanDrunen to take a deep dive into the topic of Natural Law.  David VanDrunen is a minister of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and is the Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary California.

It's summertime at The Pactum! While we take a little break we want you to enjoy some of our favorite episodes. Today's episode is Sane Student Ministries. Pat and Mike are joined this week by special guest, Andrew Meyer to talk all things Student Ministry. Andrew is a pastor at Omaha Bible Church with Pat and Mike and leads the student ministries.

It's summertime at The Pactum! While we take a little break we want you to enjoy some of our favorite episodes. Today's episode is Exodus for Christians. Pat and Mike talk about the book of Exodus and why it is vital for Christians. Resources mentioned in this episode: – Reformation Study Bible – Gospel Transformation Bible – Echoes of Exodus by Bryan Estelle – Exodus (Teach the Text Commentary Series) by T. Desmond Alexander – Exodus (EP Study Commentary) by John. D. Currid – Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption by L. Michael Morales – Matthew Poole's Commentary of the Holy Bible – Book of Exodus

It's summertime at The Pactum! While we take a little break we want you to enjoy some of our favorite episodes. Today's episode is Getting the Gospel Right. In this special live episode, Pat and Mike are joined by Mike Abendroth from No Compromise Radio, Jon and Justin from Theocast, and R. Scott Clark from the Heidelcast as they discuss what makes them tick. They talk about law and gospel, assurance, justification sola fide, and covenant theology.  

In this Lone Ranger episode Pat answers listener questions about the unpardonable sin, law and gospel, Bible study resources, and more. If you have questions you would like us to answer on future episodes you can email us at connect@thepactum.org  

In this episode, Pat and Mike are joined by Harrison Perkins to discuss his new book, Reformed Covenant Theology. Harrison Perkins is the pastor of Oakland Hills Community Church in Farmington Hills, Michigan, contributor to Ligonier, Modern Reformation, and the Heidelblog. He is also the author of A Guide to Living Out Reformed Theology and Presbyterianism: Its History, Doctrine, Government, and Worship.

In this episode, Pat and Mike are joined by Jody Anderson to discuss suggestions that will help you love your pastor. Jody Anderson is the pastor at Christ Church of Guntersville, AL. You can find Jody on X here.

What does the Bible have to say about healing? Does God still heal people today? Join Pat and Mike as they discuss these questions and more on this episode of The Pactum.