Podcasts about Belgic Confession

Jason and Willy are back with their annual post-Synod recap, and the mood is different than it used to be. This isn't a denomination bracing for a fight; it's one taking stock of how far it has come. Willy is relatively satisfied with Synod 2026 — a give-and-take week with real wins and real losses — and Jason agrees, framing his disappointments as wisdom calls rather than make-or-break ones. The throughline this year, borrowing a line from Derek Buikema, was a willingness to stop deferring everything to process and just make decisions now. The biggest win is the virtual church decision. After leaving the door cracked last year, Synod acceded to the Atlantic Northeast overture and declared plainly that a church meeting exclusively online is not a true church — rooted in Acts and the Belgic Confession, and framed well by Chad Steenwyk as chair. The biggest loss is the Classis Wisconsin overture for a study committee on Reformed ecclesiology, which failed 106 to 71. Jason's frustration isn't the defeat but the reason: the whole debate collapsed into a conversation about money and pragmatism — the very disease the overture was trying to treat. His verdict on the leading floor argument is unprintable-adjacent: it sounds good, but it's crap. The episode closes on the two-year Christian nationalism study committee. Both hosts are skeptical, not because the issue is unimportant but because nobody can define the term — a point Al Mohler recently made by calling it a rebrand of "fundamentalist." Jason is genuinely thankful Synod refused the overture's proposed definition, but he expects two years of study to produce a definition that helps no one. What stings most is the contrast: a committee for the buzzword, none for the root issue. So the Messy Reformation will do the ecclesiology work itself — grassroots. Timestamps: 0:00 — Intro and overall thoughts on Synod 2026 3:14 — Willy: relatively satisfied; a give-and-take synod 5:22 — "We're just going to do it now": Synod's new decisiveness 6:35 — The virtual church decision: online-only is not a true church 9:18 — Digital church versus digital ministry 9:35 — The Classis Wisconsin ecclesiology overture fails, 106 to 71 13:21 — Pragmatism on the floor: "his argument sounds good, but it's crap" 14:05 — The cracked-foundation analogy and planting Reformed churches 16:03 — An invitation to fund Reformed ecclesiology work 16:44 — The Christian nationalism study committee 18:19 — Al Mohler: a rebrand of "fundamentalist" 20:08 — Thankful Synod didn't adopt the proposed definition 21:12 — Chasing a ghost: two years, and a committee for the buzzword but not the root Join and support us on Substack: https://themessyreformation.com/ Intro music by Matt Krotzer

On the two natures of Christ https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-two-06-21-2026-20260621222044.mp3

On the two natures of Christ https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-two-06-21-2026-20260621222044.mp3

On the incarnation. Scripture Lesson: John 1:1-18 https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-son-06-14-2026-20260614234206.mp3

On the incarnation. Scripture Lesson: John 1:1-18 https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-son-06-14-2026-20260614234206.mp3

Gen. 20:1–13 Psalm 82 Matt. 8:5–13 Acts 12:20–24  In this 4th and final message focusing on Belgic Confession article 36, we examine the vision that Psalm 82 has for earthly rulers, and God requires justice and wisdom in those whom He endows with civil authority.

Exod. 1:15–22 Dan. 3:8–18 Matt. 5:38–42 Rev. 13:1–10  Should Christians only ever obey civil authorities, or are there times when we must disobey? Scripture gives us very useful categories for understanding when we must or may disobey the governing authorities. In this message, and with the help of the Protestant tradition, we explore the biblical conditions and reasoning for engaging in civil disobedience.

The sermon centers on the doctrine of justification by faith alone, drawing from Romans 4 and the Belgic Confession, Article 22, to affirm that true faith is a divine gift from the Holy Spirit, not a human achievement. It emphasizes that faith's source is God, its object is Jesus Christ alone—embracing His person, merits, and resurrection—and its sufficiency lies in the complete and exclusive work of Christ, who is the sole basis of righteousness and salvation. The message warns against any addition to Christ's work, declaring that faith which seeks anything beyond Him is a counterfeit, and calls believers to a living, Christ-centered faith that humbly rests in grace, not self-effort. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a renewed, gospel-driven faith that glorifies God alone, rooted in Scripture, nurtured by confession, and lived out in daily dependence on Christ.

Gen. 47:1–12 Ezra 7:21–27 John 18:33–36 Acts 26:19–32  The basic responsibilities of civil government are to punish law-breakers and protect the innocent. But what is its relationship to the Church? Although there's room for difference of opinion, Scripture guides us to a handful of common elements.

In this sermon we argue that predestination is biblical. Scripture Lesson: Ephesians 1:3-14 https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-elect-05-31-2026-20260531230601.mp3

In this sermon we argue that predestination is biblical. Scripture Lesson: Ephesians 1:3-14 https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-elect-05-31-2026-20260531230601.mp3

Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones taught extensively on church history, specifically on the relationship between church and state. In this sermon on Romans 13:1–7 titled “Church and the State (4),” Dr. Lloyd-Jones turns his attention to the underlying foundation of the view proposing an alliance between church and state. How do they biblically defend their position? What biblical evidence do they portray to say this alliance is biblically sound and wise? He enters this controversial topic by looking at two specific confessions of faith, the Belgic Confession and the Westminster Confession. The bulk of these confessions' defense is taken from the Old Testament, with only one direct passage from the New Testament. Pointing to the position of Israel as a nation and Judaism as a religion, proponents of the alliance position maintain no distinction between Israel and the church in this way. Deviating from this position, Dr. Lloyd-Jones advocates for the separation of the church and state, based on the New Testament's teaching on the kingdom of God. As he handles this delicate discussion, he reminds his listeners of the importance of this new identity of believers: the reality that Christians are now citizens of the kingdom through rebirth and this kingdom consists of citizens from every nation and tongue.

Does church history hold importance for believers today? Why should Christians look to the past for insight into doctrine instead of looking to Scripture alone? In the second part of his series on the church and the state, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones chastises the arrogance of believers who say church history is not important. In this sermon on Romans 13:1–7 titled “Church and the State (2),” he argues for the wisdom of modern believers' consideration of men and women of history handling difficult questions of their faith. This is particularly enlightening as one considers the relations of church and state. Dr. Lloyd-Jones continues his historical look at these particular relations through consideration of the view that the church and the state are essentially different and distinct. He provides four distinctions to consider: their difference in origin, the object from which they were instituted, the power given to them by God, and the way their functions are carried out. The teachings of Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvin are given special attention by Dr. Lloyd-Jones as their beliefs are foundational to the development of the influential Belgic Confession and Westminster Confession. These confessions have direct implications for Presbyterian congregations today. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones expounds on the value of learning from church history as he continues discussing the relations of the church and the state.

The sole work of God to save man is preserved when we understand that the condemning effects of the imputation of Adam’s sin was counteracted by the imputation of Christ’s righteousness through faith in Christ. Scripture Lesson: Romans 5:12-21 https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-sin-05-24-2026-20260524233855.mp3

The sole work of God to save man is preserved when we understand that the condemning effects of the imputation of Adam’s sin was counteracted by the imputation of Christ’s righteousness through faith in Christ. Scripture Lesson: Romans 5:12-21 https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-sin-05-24-2026-20260524233855.mp3

Gen. 9:1–7 1 Sam. 8:10–18 Matt. 22:15–22 Rom. 13:1–7 Although Christians are free to have a variety of views about politics and policies, the Bible's basic teaching on the role of civil government is clear. In this message, we discover two of the most important functions our governing authorities have, and what the response of Christian citizens should be.

The sermon centers on the theological significance of Christ's role as the eternal high priest according to the order of Melchizedek, emphasizing that His sacrifice on the cross was a complete, final, and sufficient atonement for sin. Drawing from Hebrews 4–5 and the Belgic Confession, it highlights that Christ's priesthood is divinely appointed, not self-asserted, and superior to the Old Testament system because He is both the priest and the sacrifice, offering Himself once for all without the need for repetition. The passage underscores Christ's perfect sympathy, having been tempted in every way yet without sin, enabling believers to approach God's throne with confidence to receive mercy and grace in their time of need. The sermon affirms that Christ's work is final—His blood has cleansed sins, His suffering satisfied divine justice, and His intercession secures eternal salvation, rendering all other attempts at reconciliation unnecessary. This truth calls the church to hold fast to the confession of faith, live in the assurance of forgiveness, and worship with boldness, knowing that salvation is complete in Christ alone.

Creeds & Confessions, The Belgic Confession (Brett McNeill) Brett McNeill Download

Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones taught extensively on church history, specifically on the relationship between church and state. In this sermon on Romans 13:1–7 titled “Church and the State (4),” Dr. Lloyd-Jones turns his attention to the underlying foundation of the view proposing an alliance between church and state. How do they biblically defend their position? What biblical evidence do they portray to say this alliance is biblically sound and wise? He enters this controversial topic by looking at two specific confessions of faith, the Belgic Confession and the Westminster Confession. The bulk of these confessions' defense is taken from the Old Testament, with only one direct passage from the New Testament. Pointing to the position of Israel as a nation and Judaism as a religion, proponents of the alliance position maintain no distinction between Israel and the church in this way. Deviating from this position, Dr. Lloyd-Jones advocates for the separation of the church and state, based on the New Testament's teaching on the kingdom of God. As he handles this delicate discussion, he reminds his listeners of the importance of this new identity of believers: the reality that Christians are now citizens of the kingdom through rebirth and this kingdom consists of citizens from every nation and tongue. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

On the creation, fall and corruption of man. Scripture Lesson: Genesis 2:4-3:7 https://media.urclearning.org/audio/uploader/tm-fall-05-17-2026-20260518230456.mp3

Does church history hold importance for believers today? Why should Christians look to the past for insight into doctrine instead of looking to Scripture alone? In the second part of his series on the church and the state, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones chastises the arrogance of believers who say church history is not important. In this sermon on Romans 13:1–7 titled “Church and the State (2),” he argues for the wisdom of modern believers' consideration of men and women of history handling difficult questions of their faith. This is particularly enlightening as one considers the relations of church and state. Dr. Lloyd-Jones continues his historical look at these particular relations through consideration of the view that the church and the state are essentially different and distinct. He provides four distinctions to consider: their difference in origin, the object from which they were instituted, the power given to them by God, and the way their functions are carried out. The teachings of Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvin are given special attention by Dr. Lloyd-Jones as their beliefs are foundational to the development of the influential Belgic Confession and Westminster Confession. These confessions have direct implications for Presbyterian congregations today. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones expounds on the value of learning from church history as he continues discussing the relations of the church and the state. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

Does church history hold importance for believers today? Why should Christians look to the past for insight into doctrine instead of looking to Scripture alone? In the second part of his series on the church and the state, Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones chastises the arrogance of believers who say church history is not important. In this sermon on Romans 13:1–7 titled “Church and the State (2),” he argues for the wisdom of modern believers' consideration of men and women of history handling difficult questions of their faith. This is particularly enlightening as one considers the relations of church and state. Dr. Lloyd-Jones continues his historical look at these particular relations through consideration of the view that the church and the state are essentially different and distinct. He provides four distinctions to consider: their difference in origin, the object from which they were instituted, the power given to them by God, and the way their functions are carried out. The teachings of Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvin are given special attention by Dr. Lloyd-Jones as their beliefs are foundational to the development of the influential Belgic Confession and Westminster Confession. These confessions have direct implications for Presbyterian congregations today. Listen as Dr. Lloyd-Jones expounds on the value of learning from church history as he continues discussing the relations of the church and the state. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

Pastor Drew Zylstra preaches from Galatians 2:15-21, “Justification by Faith.” —————————— More from Oostburg CRC Sermons: https://www.firstcrcoostburg.org/sermons Bible Study Resources: https://www.firstcrcoostburg.org/resources Original Music: https://open.spotify.com/album/4P7JbJlHzabPNW8GpdxKcB YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJSouYxM1rwWZ4cYAvTIqVA

The doctrine of providence gives us unspeakable consolation. Scripture Lesson: Psalm 139 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-providence-05-10-2026.MP3

Isa. 1:12–20 1 Cor. 11:17–34 What is self-examination? Some Christians are so unfamiliar with it that they never do it. Others feel they've only done it if they feel spiritually discouraged. But self-examination is an aid to assurance, not a weapon to destroy it. In this message, we explore the call to self-examination and how it prepares us to receive Christ's body and blood.

Pastor Drew Zylstra preaches from Hebrews 9:11-28, “The Atonement of Christ.” —————————— More from Oostburg CRC Sermons: https://www.firstcrcoostburg.org/sermons Bible Study Resources: https://www.firstcrcoostburg.org/resources Original Music: https://open.spotify.com/album/4P7JbJlHzabPNW8GpdxKcB YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJSouYxM1rwWZ4cYAvTIqVA

Deut. 8:1–10 Ezek. 45:13–17 John 6:52–59 1 Cor. 11:17–34 Sacred meals are all over Scripture. God invites His people to eat in His presence. In the Lord's Supper, we have a sacred meal in which Christ Himself is offered to those who receive Him by faith. In this message, we explore the past, present, and future benefits of this wonderful sacrament.

On angels and demons and spiritual battle. Scripture Lesson: Ephesians 6:10-20 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-angels-04-26-2026.MP3

Deut. 11:1–12 Ezek. 36:22–29a Matt. 8:28–34 Col. 2:8–15  In holy baptism, the Lord has given us a gift that connects us back to the great cleansing events of the Old Testament, like the parting of the Red Sea. But it doesn't end there. Baptism is useful each day, powerfully delivering the good news to us that Christ's blood is our Red Sea, and that He has delivered us from the tyranny of the devil on our way to the spiritual Canaan.

In this sermon we discuss a theology of creation. Scripture Lesson: Psalm 8 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-creation-04-19-2026.MP3

Gen. 3:20–24 Ezek. 20:5–8a Matt. 6:25–34 1 Cor. 10:1–8 In this message on the sacraments, we reflect upon the worries we deal with as Christians, how we tend to make ourselves feel better through idolatry, and how in the sacraments God targets these destructive tendencies and gives us the healing we need.

This sermon addresses the Person, Deity and Procession of the Holy Spirit. Scripture Lesson: John 14:15-31 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-Spirit-04-12-2026.MP3

Exod. 26:26–30 1 Chron. 16:1–7 Luke 4:16–22 Heb. 8:1–7 Christ is the true worship leader. As our mediator and high priest, He leads the worship of His people and summons them up to heaven with Him. In this message, we explore the glories of New Covenant worship done not according to passing trends, but according to the Word.

Belgic Confession of Faith: Article 16

Lev. 10:1–7 2 Kgs. 18:1–8 Matt. 18:15–20 1 Tim. 3:14–16  In this message, we explore Paul's wonderful claim that the Church is a "pillar and buttress of the truth." With this authority, the Church applies the Word of God to maintaining order among God's people and regulating our worship of the living God.

In this sermon we discuss the Scriptural teaching of the deity of Jesus Christ. Scripture Lesson: John 1:1-18 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-deity-04-05-2026.MP3

A further exposition on the Trinity. Scripture Lesson: 1 Corinthians 8:4-6 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-trinity2-03-29-2026.MP3

Deut. 1:9–18 1 Kgs 3:5–15 Matt. 20:20–28 Acts 6:1–6  Christ raises up officers to serve His churches. But how does that happen "on the ground"? In this message, we examine Scripture's design for identifying men to church office, and the immense privilege it is to select them.

An introductory sermon on the Trinity. Scripture Lesson: Ephesians 1:3-14 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-trinity-03-22-2026.MP3

Exod. 18:13–27 Prov. 11:14; 15:22 Matt. 23:1–4 1 Tim. 3:1–13  Every group on earth has to get organized in order to get anything done. It's the same with the Church. But the difference is that the Church is a heavenly institution that also exists on earth. In this sermon, we learn that Christ's care for and rule over His people is experienced in the order and officers of the Church.

The Scriptures are sufficient for things relating to salvation, including worship but are not sufficient for all things in life. Scripture Lesson: 1 Peter 1:3-12 http://media.urclearning.org/audio/tm-suff-03-15-2026.MP3

Exod. 30:1–10 Isa. 29:11–16 Matt. 15:1–9 Acts 7:51–60 In Acts 7, Stephen brings down an indictment on the Pharisees, who were the leaders of the church in that day, saying, “You…received the law as delivered by angels, but did not keep it.” In fact, they did the opposite. They opposed and persecuted the prophet, they resisted the Holy Spirit. Stephen strong words shows us there is such a thing as false churches. Those who have the trappings of religion, but are actually enemies of God. How can we know? We have the marks of false churches to help us.

Num. 5:5–10 Prov. 4:20–27 Luke 9:21–27 Gal. 5:16–26 There are such things as hypocrites in the church of our Lord Jesus Christ. That is to say, that in the visible church, there are people who are “physically there,” but “nonetheless are not part of it.” Some people hear this and it fills them with a kind of dread. In this message, we learn Scripture's marks of the true Christian, and what to do when, in our weakness, we fail to live up to them.

Deut. 13:1–5 1 Kgs 12:25–33 Mark 13:9–13 2 Tim. 4:1–5  Are there such things as false and true churches, and is there a way to tell the difference? When we open Scripture, we see three things prioritized in Christ's assembly: the preaching of the gospel, the administration of the sacraments, and church discipline.

The Belgic Confession, Article 8, The Trinity

THE BELGIC CONFESSION (AD 1561) - ARTICLE VII - THE SUFFICIENCY OF THE HOLY SCRIPTURES TO BE THE ONLY RULE OF FAITH We believe that those Holy Scriptures fully contain the will of God, and that whatsoever man ought to believe unto salvation is sufficiently taught therein. For since the whole manner of worship which God requires of us is written in them at large, it is unlawful for any one, though an apostle, to teach otherwise than we are now taught in the Holy Scriptures: "nay, though it were an angel from heaven," as the apostle Paul says. For since it is forbidden to "add unto or take away anything from the Word of God," it does thereby evidently appear that the doctrine thereof is most perfect and complete in all respects. Neither may we consider any writings of men, however holy these men may have been, of equal value with those divine Scriptures, nor ought we to consider custom, or the great multitude, or antiquity, or succession of time and persons, or councils, decree or statutes, as of equal value with the truth of God, since the truth is above all: "for all men are of themselves liars, and more vain than vanity itself." Therefore, we reject with all our hearts whatsoever does not agree with this infallible rule, as the apostles have taught us, saying, "Prove the spirits, whether they are of God." Likewise: "If any one cometh to you, and bringeth not this teaching, receive him not into your house." SCRIPTURE REFERENCES: Galatians 1:8 But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. Deuteronomy 12:32 Whatever I command you, be careful to observe it; you shall not add to it nor tak

Episode 94 is live! In this episode we discuss Article 20 of the Belgic Confession: The Justice and Mercy of God in Christ. What was Christ accomplishing in his humanity? What comfort do I receive from the justice and mercy of God in Christ? We answer these questions and more in this episode of Full Armor Radio.Support the show

Pastor Mike focuses on the importance and benefit of using catechisms, creeds, and confessions as supplements to studying the Bible. He argues that these resources, such as systematic theology or a confession, help believers "get their arms around" the vast content of the 66 books of the Bible by providing concise summaries and instruction.While affirming that God's Word is the final, supreme authority (sola scriptura), he highlights how catechisms protect the church from "celebrity pastors" by establishing a shared, time-tested theological foundation, and provide a means for unity among different reformed groups (like the "three forms of unity": Dort, Heidelberg, and Belgic Confession). Produced/Edited By: Marrio Escobar (Owner of D2L Productions)  Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vjv_fnYjzIM