Theology Central

We begin our exegetical study of Isaiah 44

The sermon explored the call of Abraham in Genesis 12, framing it as a template for contemporary believers to step out of their comfort zones and embrace a revivalist spirit. Utilizing a devotional and experiential hermeneutic, the preacher emphasized personal obedience and a faith-driven walk, often neglecting the historical and redemptive context of the Abrahamic covenant and its significance in salvation history. Interestingly, artificial intelligence, when tasked with predicting the sermon's content, accurately anticipated its focus on individual action and motivational appeals, highlighting a pattern of prioritizing personal revival over theological depth and accurate biblical interpretation.

The sermon presents a deeply pessimistic view of contemporary Christianity, arguing that the pursuit of personal application and emotional resonance within biblical interpretation has led to a system of spiritual anarchy where individual interpretations reign supreme, rendering theological consistency and objective truth meaningless. The speaker critiques the devotional experiential hermeneutic, highlighting its tendency to distort scripture by prioritizing subjective feelings over grammatical context and authorial intent, ultimately concluding that the widespread practice of manipulating biblical passages to fit pre-determined agendas has created a facade of unity while fostering discord and undermining the very foundation of Christian belief.

The sermon expresses frustration and skepticism regarding the modern church's tendency towards commercialization, exemplified by a church's fundraising campaign for a new building. The speaker critiques the misapplication of scripture, particularly Acts 11:29, and questions the prioritization of financial gain over genuine ministry and compassion for those in need. The speaker reflects on personal financial struggles and the irony of being asked to contribute to a large-scale project while facing their own precarious situation, ultimately questioning the church's motives and the value of its appeals for donations, while emphasizing the importance of authentic spiritual connection over material pursuits.

The IRS now says churches can endorse political candidates from the pulpit. In this episode, we break down what happened, why it matters, and how it threatens to replace Christ with political power at the center of the church.

We take a trip back to the summer of 1984 and discuss the song, When Doves Cry

In this brief update, I share some exciting news—SiriusXM has officially become the #1 platform where people are listening to Theology Central, making up over %50 of our total plays! I want to thank all of you who tune in through SiriusXM and reflect on what this milestone means for the podcast. Whether you're listening in your car, at home, or on the go—thank you for being part of this journey.

The sermon explores the concept of seemingly impossible commands in Scripture, challenging the notion that Christians can achieve obedience through their own efforts. It emphasizes a law-gospel framework, asserting that the law reveals human inability and drives individuals to Christ, whose perfect righteousness is imputed rather than infused. The speaker advocates for a theological perspective where commands are not seen as achievable goals but as catalysts for recognizing dependence on Christ, urging listeners to embrace a realistic understanding of their inherent sinfulness and to find security in His completed work, rather than striving for self-achieved righteousness.

The sermon explores the theological complexities of obedience to God's commandments and the role of scripture, ultimately questioning the effectiveness of contemporary church practices. It examines the futility of idolatry and human attempts to understand the divine, contrasting human efforts with God's sovereignty and purpose. Through an observational outline of Isaiah 44, the message highlights God's unique identity as Creator and Redeemer, emphasizing His promise of restoration and the use of unexpected instruments, like Cyrus, to fulfill His will, while challenging the tendency to impose human-centric interpretations onto biblical texts.

Over twenty girls swept away in a Texas flood at a Christian camp. In this episode, we confront the deep tension between promises of divine protection and the brutal silence of tragedy. What does it mean to trust a God who intervenes—sometimes?

The sermon transcript presents a frustrated critique of contemporary biblical interpretation, particularly regarding the book of Isaiah. The speaker laments the pervasive tendency to impose modern theological frameworks onto ancient texts, specifically highlighting the misapplication of Isaiah 44 and the conflation of church-centric themes with its original context of comfort and promise to Israel in Babylonian captivity. The speaker emphasizes the importance of observational Bible study and the need to resist the urge to impose personal or denominational preferences onto scripture, advocating for a return to careful reading and a recognition of the historical and covenantal setting of biblical passages, ultimately expressing discouragement with the state of biblical understanding and a desire for a more faithful engagement with the text.

This episode explores the devotional-experiential hermeneutic—a system where personal experience shapes how Scripture is read. We examine its roots, how it misuses verses like Hebrews 4:12, and the consequences of letting emotion override biblical meaning.

The sermon transcript reflects a deep concern for the accuracy of biblical interpretation, particularly within contemporary church settings. The speaker critiques the prevalence of devotional experiential hermeneutics, which prioritizes personal feelings and applications over careful textual analysis and historical context, especially evident in reviews of sermons on Isaiah 40-55. The speaker advocates for a return to rigorous hermeneutical training, emphasizing the importance of understanding original audiences, covenantal frameworks, and the broader redemptive narrative of Scripture, ultimately aiming to equip listeners to discern faithful teaching and avoid the pitfalls of superficial or misleading interpretations.

The sermon critically examines contemporary Christian practices, particularly the monetization of theological education through conferences and the sale of recorded sermons. It questions the biblical justification for charging fees for accessing spiritual instruction, contrasting it with the ideal of freely sharing the Gospel and emphasizing the importance of accessible theological resources. The speaker expresses concern over the commodification of preaching and encourages listeners to support ministries directly rather than through expensive conferences, advocating for a return to simpler, more accessible forms of spiritual growth and dissemination of knowledge.

The speaker grapples with the tension between theological doctrines and the realities of human experience, particularly the persistent presence of sin despite claims of divine empowerment. Examining sermons accessed through a platform like Sermon Audio, the speaker finds frustration with messages that oversimplify decision-making and ignore the inherent limitations imposed by a depraved nature. The discussion centers on the paradox of moral responsibility when individuals are born with a nature that predisposes them to sin, questioning the validity of free will and the coherence of holding people accountable for actions they cannot ultimately avoid, ultimately suggesting a reliance on faith in Christ as a resolution to this inherent conflict.

I continue our discussion about how to train AI

The discussion centers on leveraging artificial intelligence as a tool for critical thinking and theological exploration, emphasizing that AI is not a source of inherent truth but a pattern-imitating language model requiring careful training and engagement. The speaker advocates for establishing clear standards, demanding transparency, and correcting AI's outputs to cultivate a reliable tool for biblical study, sermon evaluation, and theological inquiry, ultimately aiming to enhance understanding and clarity rather than blindly accepting AI-generated information as definitive.

This sermon emphasizes the importance of active engagement with Scripture, particularly Isaiah 40-55, rather than passive listening, and challenges common misinterpretations of the text by urging listeners to return to the original recipients and historical context of Babylonian captivity. The speaker advocates for a structured approach to biblical study, providing listeners with specific assignments designed to promote deeper understanding and retention of the text, ultimately aiming to move beyond superficial interpretations and foster a more robust engagement with the character of God, the nature of idolatry, and the promises of comfort and hope offered amidst judgment.

This sermon explores the concept of the 'fool's speech' from 2 Corinthians, challenging listeners to embrace weakness and suffering as pathways to divine grace rather than striving for outward success or spiritual triumph. The preacher encourages a theological re-evaluation of authority, suggesting that true spiritual leadership is demonstrated not through charisma or achievement, but through humble vulnerability and a willingness to boast in imperfections, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of God's power made perfect in weakness and a call to actively embody this paradoxical truth by sharing personal struggles and embracing a life defined by dependence on divine mercy.

The sermon explored the concept of spiritual possession, drawing heavily on personal experience and referencing the film *The Exorcist* to illustrate the perceived terror of demonic influence. It argued that being 'possessed' by the Holy Spirit signifies a state of control and transformation, echoing themes of empowerment and joy, though it ultimately presented a theological framework that seemingly contradicts the reality of ongoing sin and human struggle, suggesting a disconnect between idealized spiritual states and the lived experience of faith. The speaker's reflections on biblical passages and historical reactions to *The Exorcist* underscored a fascination with spiritual power and a desire for a life free from the complexities of human imperfection.

The sermon explores the legacy of the Salem witch trials, using a metaphorical drive through Salem as a framework to examine the dangers of fear and the abuse of religious authority. Focusing on the story of Bridget Bishop, the first to be executed, the speaker highlights how societal panic and a desire for conformity can lead to injustice, with religion used to justify persecution and silencing dissent. The message serves as a cautionary tale about the potential for manipulation and the importance of questioning narratives, urging listeners to remember the human cost of unchecked fear and the enduring need for justice and mercy.

The sermon grapples with the complexities of divorce and remarriage within a theological framework, questioning the consistency of church teachings and the application of biblical standards. Examining Matthew 5:31-32 and related scripture, the discussion highlights the ambiguity surrounding the 'exception clause' and the potential for ongoing adultery in remarriage, challenging the notion that the church consistently upholds its own moral teachings. Ultimately, the speaker argues that the sermon reveals the universal brokenness of humanity and points to the need for grace and reliance on Christ's perfect obedience as the only path to redemption, rather than attempting to navigate a flawed system of moral judgment.

The sermon explores themes of emotional impermanence and vulnerability through the lens of a popular song, examining the complexities of modern relationships and the search for connection in a fleeting world. It dissects the song's narrative of a chance encounter and the subsequent emotional fallout, highlighting the narrator's desperate plea for honesty and the cyclical nature of seeking solace in temporary encounters. The analysis suggests that the song captures a sense of loneliness and the fear of abandonment, resonating with the human experience of seeking meaning and connection amidst the transient nature of life, ultimately questioning the authenticity of relationships built on superficiality and the inevitable moment when the "wine runs out."

The sermon explores the complexities of divorce and remarriage through the lens of the Sermon on the Mount, challenging conventional interpretations and emphasizing the law-like nature of Jesus' teachings. It argues that Matthew 5:31-32, particularly the concept of "sexual immorality," demands careful scrutiny, suggesting that many within the church may unknowingly be living in adulterous relationships due to a misunderstanding of biblical standards. The preacher advocates for a return to a rigorous examination of scripture, urging listeners to confront their own failures and flee to Christ, rather than attempting to justify their actions through selective interpretations, ultimately calling for a church that embraces grace while upholding biblical fidelity.

The sermon explores the complexities of divorce and remarriage within a Christian context, challenging conventional interpretations of Jesus' teachings on marriage and adultery. Examining passages from Matthew 5 and 19 alongside Mark and Luke, the discussion questions the common understanding of an "exception clause" and the selective application of biblical standards, highlighting inconsistencies in how the church treats various sins. Ultimately, the message emphasizes the universal nature of sin and the need for grace, urging listeners to confront their own failures and seek redemption rather than engaging in judgmental practices, while acknowledging the difficulty of navigating these sensitive issues and the need for humility in interpreting scripture.

The sermon dissects Sabrina Carpenter's song "Manchild," framing it as a cultural document reflecting relational exhaustion and a critique of emotional immaturity, particularly within modern relationships. Rather than dismissing it as mere pop music or a display of man-hating, the analysis suggests the song exposes a recurring pattern of one-sided emotional labor and a longing for mutual respect and growth, prompting listeners to consider their own roles in perpetuating such dynamics and potentially offering a mirror to the church's own shortcomings in fostering mature and balanced relationships.

The sermon grapples with the tension between God's absolute power and the reality of human suffering and sin, particularly within the context of Isaiah 40-55. It challenges the notion that God's sovereignty necessitates the prevention of all evil, suggesting instead that God's character is revealed through the redemption of sinners despite their failings. The preacher questions conventional Christian interpretations, urging listeners to confront difficult theological questions about God's allowance of sin and to move beyond simplistic answers, ultimately advocating for a deeper engagement with scripture that acknowledges the complexities of faith and the mystery of God's plan.

The sermon grapples with the theological complexities of God's sovereignty and the existence of sin, challenging conventional church teachings that often soften these difficult truths. It explores the tension between God's creative power and the reality of human suffering, questioning simplistic explanations of grace and emphasizing the need for a more honest engagement with scripture. The speaker contends that God's allowance of sin, while mysterious, is not a reflection of weakness but a deliberate aspect of His plan, ultimately calling for a faith rooted in humility and a willingness to confront the unsettling nature of divine purpose rather than seeking easy comfort in theological evasion.

We conclude our look at the devotional put out by the Girls Gone Bible podcast

We look at the devotional put out by the Girls Gone Bible podcast

This episode explores Matthew 5:27–32, exposing how Jesus' words crush any illusion of internal purity or external righteousness. We challenge popular views on lust, showing it begins within—not outside us—and conclude with the only hope for sinners: the imputed righteousness of Christ.

Christian influencers promoting an athleisure line have ignited a firestorm of debate—are they being immodest, or is the backlash part of a deeper theological problem? In this episode, we tackle the controversy surrounding Girls Gone Bible, modesty culture, and whether women are unfairly held responsible for men's lust. We go deep into Scripture, examine what modesty really means, and ask: who's actually to blame when someone sins? A must-listen for anyone tired of shallow answers and ready for a biblical, honest conversation. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-14788899/Christian-influencers-fire-evangelical-followers-promoting-immodest-athleisure-line.html

What does it mean to call Mary the Mother of the Church? Is the title biblical or purely traditional? In this episode, we explore the theological claims made in the Catholic Church's celebration of the Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church. We examine the scriptural basis, early Church writings, and the typological parallels with Eve and the Ark of the Covenant — and challenge Protestants who reject Marian theology while using the same interpretive methods for their own doctrines.

We continue our study of Isaiah 43

We conclude our study of Isaiah 43

Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars imagine the end of the world—and all they want is to be together. In this episode, we unpack the lyrics of "Die with a Smile," exploring love, vulnerability, and why this emotional anthem resonates so deeply. Is it about conflict, surrender, or something more eternal?

Did Jesus and Peter use two different words for love in John 21—and does it actually matter? This episode exposes the myth, traces its origins, and shows why the Greek doesn't say what many claim it does.

I review a sermon on John 21:15-17

Jesus prayed "that they may all be one"—but in a divided church, what does that really mean? In this episode, we examine John 17:20–26, explore who Jesus was praying for, and wrestle with the challenge of unity in light of today's church reality.

A review of the last few days of the lectionary readings

In this episode, I respond to Breakpoint's take on AI and loneliness, pushing back on their claim that the Church is the cure. Yes, AI relationships are artificial—but let's not pretend church communities always offer something better. I explore the real failures of Christian community, the limits of human connection, and why honesty—not idealism—is what we need.