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How do Word and Sacrament bring comfort to the doubting heart? In this final installment of our series on assurance, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores how God's appointed means of grace provide concrete reassurance amid life's uncertainties. Dr. Venema unpacks how gospel-centered preaching—proclaiming what Christ has done rather than what we must do—serves as the foundation for genuine assurance. He particularly emphasizes the often-neglected role of the sacraments, showing how Baptism and the Lord's Supper are not empty rituals but visible seals of God's promises meant to strengthen our wavering faith. Whether you struggle with legalistic tendencies, feel trapped on the "anxious bench," or simply desire deeper confidence in God's love, Dr. Venema helps us see that assurance comes not through extraordinary experiences but through ordinary means God has graciously provided.
How do Word and Sacrament bring comfort to the doubting heart? In this final installment of our series on assurance, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores how God's appointed means of grace provide concrete reassurance amid life's uncertainties. Dr. Venema unpacks how gospel-centered preaching—proclaiming what Christ has done rather than what we must do—serves as the foundation for genuine assurance. He particularly emphasizes the often-neglected role of the sacraments, showing how Baptism and the Lord's Supper are not empty rituals but visible seals of God's promises meant to strengthen our wavering faith. Whether you struggle with legalistic tendencies, feel trapped on the "anxious bench," or simply desire deeper confidence in God's love, Dr. Venema helps us see that assurance comes not through extraordinary experiences but through ordinary means God has graciously provided.
Can Christians truly be sure of their salvation—and if so, on what basis? In this episode of Marscast, host Jared Luttjeboer welcomes back Dr. Cornelis Venema to explore the doctrine of assurance through the lens of the Reformed confessions and pastoral wisdom from the church's history. Far from being a modern dilemma, the struggle for assurance has deep roots in the life of the church, and our theological forefathers left us language and categories deeply embedded in a Christ-centered hope.From the debates of the Reformation to the pastoral tone of the Canons of Dort and the Westminster Confession, this conversation sheds light on how assurance was understood as something deeply connected to faith in Christ, the witness of the Spirit, and the fruit of new life. Whether you're new to this topic or have wrestled with it for years, this episode invites you to rest more deeply in God's promises, to understand the role of self-examination without falling into despair, and to see how the Reformed tradition has long spoken to this very human question: Can I really be sure?
Can Christians truly be sure of their salvation—and if so, on what basis? In this episode of Marscast, host Jared Luttjeboer welcomes back Dr. Cornelis Venema to explore the doctrine of assurance through the lens of the Reformed confessions and pastoral wisdom from the church's history. Far from being a modern dilemma, the struggle for assurance has deep roots in the life of the church, and our theological forefathers left us language and categories deeply embedded in a Christ-centered hope.From the debates of the Reformation to the pastoral tone of the Canons of Dort and the Westminster Confession, this conversation sheds light on how assurance was understood as something deeply connected to faith in Christ, the witness of the Spirit, and the fruit of new life.Whether you're new to this topic or have wrestled with it for years, this episode invites you to rest more deeply in God's promises, to understand the role of self-examination without falling into despair, and to see how the Reformed tradition has long spoken to this very human question: Can I really be sure?
In this episode, host Jared Luttjeboer sits down with Dr. Cornelis Venema, President Emeritus of Mid-America Reformed Seminary, to explore the doctrine of assurance. Dr. Venema challenges the common misconception that assurance is merely a fluctuating feeling dependent on our spiritual performance. Instead, he reveals how assurance is fundamentally rooted in God's unshakable promises rather than our own efforts. Drawing from scriptural passages in Romans 8 and various Psalms, Dr. Venema explains how the Holy Spirit witnesses to believers' spirits, confirming their adoption as God's children. This conversation offers a refreshing perspective for those who struggle with doubt, reminding listeners that assurance isn't earned but freely received through faith.
In this episode, host Jared Luttjeboer sits down with Dr. Cornelis Venema, President Emeritus of Mid-America Reformed Seminary, to explore the doctrine of assurance. Dr. Venema challenges the common misconception that assurance is merely a fluctuating feeling dependent on our spiritual performance. Instead, he reveals how assurance is fundamentally rooted in God's unshakable promises rather than our own efforts. Drawing from scriptural passages in Romans 8 and various Psalms, Dr. Venema explains how the Holy Spirit witnesses to believers' spirits, confirming their adoption as God's children. This conversation offers a refreshing perspective for those who struggle with doubt, reminding listeners that assurance isn't earned but freely received through faith.
In this sermon from Hebrews 2, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores the profound comfort found in Christ as our faithful and merciful high priest. When persecution, suffering, or doubt threatens our faith journey, how does Christ's own experience of humanity uniquely qualify Him to help us? Discover how the Son of God became our brother, made propitiation for our sins, and now sympathizes with our weaknesses—offering us access to the throne of grace in our time of need.
In this sermon, Dr. Cornelis Venema looks at 1 Corinthians 15:12-34, 50-58, highlighting the vital importance of the resurrection of Christ. He emphasizes that without the resurrection, Christian faith would be empty, offering no hope or salvation. The victory Christ achieved over death assures believers of their own future resurrection, providing a firm foundation for eternal life. This resurrection not only impacts the believer's future but also transforms how they live today, offering strength and hope to face life's trials. Dr. Venema underscores the necessity of Christ's resurrection for salvation and encourages Christians to remain steadfast in their faith. This passage provides background for Lord's Day 14.
In this sermon, Dr Cornelis Venema explores the theme of Christ's humiliation, focusing on His suffering, death, and the significance of His descent into hell as articulated in the Heidelberg Catechism and the Apostles' Creed. It emphasizes how these events relate to the believer's understanding of redemption and the comfort found in Christ's sacrifice.A central question addressed in the sermon is: Why was it necessary for Christ to suffer and die, and what does His descent into hell signify for believers? The answers come from Matthew 27:45-56 and Hebrews 2 as spoken of in Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 14.
Today, we're diving deep into an essential topic from our archives: systematic theology. This episode features a roundtable discussion with some of our faculty members—Dr. Cornelis Venema, Dr. J. Mark Beach, Dr. Alan Strange, and Dr. Andrew Compton—exploring why systematic theology is not just relevant but vital for ministry and the life of the church. Whether you're a pastor, a student, or someone passionate about theology, this conversation is sure to challenge and inspire you.
Today, we're diving deep into an essential topic from our archives: systematic theology. This episode features a roundtable discussion with some of our faculty members—Dr. Cornelis Venema, Dr. J. Mark Beach, Dr. Alan Strange, and Dr. Andrew Compton—exploring why systematic theology is not just relevant but vital for ministry and the life of the church. Whether you're a pastor, a student, or someone passionate about theology, this conversation is sure to challenge and inspire you.
Throughout the month of January, we're reaching back into our archives, and today, we're bringing you something special - the very first faculty roundtable discussion ever recorded at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. In this groundbreaking episode from 2019, our faculty tackles the important pastoral question of the salvation of infants of believers, examining Article 1.17 of the Canons of Dort and its lasting relevance for Reformed churches today. Contributors include Rev. Mark Vander Hart, Dr. Andrew Compton, Dr. Cornelis Venema, and Dr. J. Mark Beach.
Throughout the month of January, we're reaching back into our archives, and today, we're bringing you something special - the very first faculty roundtable discussion ever recorded at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. In this groundbreaking episode from 2019, our faculty tackles the important pastoral question of the salvation of infants of believers, examining Article 1.17 of the Canons of Dort and its lasting relevance for Reformed churches today. Contributors include Rev. Mark Vander Hart, Dr. Andrew Compton, Dr. Cornelis Venema, and Dr. J. Mark Beach.
A new MP3 sermon from Community United Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Blessed Are the Meek Speaker: Dr. Cornelis Venema Broadcaster: Community United Reformed Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 8/11/2024 Bible: Matthew 5:1-16 Length: 30 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Community United Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Perfection of Our High Priest's Sacrifice Speaker: Dr. Cornelis Venema Broadcaster: Community United Reformed Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 8/11/2024 Bible: Hebrews 10:1-25 Length: 31 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Cornerstone United Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Cultivating A Bible View Of "Good Works" Speaker: Dr. Cornelis Venema Broadcaster: Cornerstone United Reformed Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 7/28/2024 Bible: Luke 7:36-50; Luke 17:7-10 Length: 40 min.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores the identity, deity, and distinct personhood of the Holy Spirit - the third person of the Trinity. He unpacks the various names used for the Holy Spirit in Scripture, examines attributes that confirm the Spirit's deity, and discusses the Spirit's role in creation and redemption. He'll also touch on the nature of the Spirit's work and his relationship to the Father and Son.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores the identity, deity, and distinct personhood of the Holy Spirit - the third person of the Trinity. He unpacks the various names used for the Holy Spirit in Scripture, examines attributes that confirm the Spirit's deity, and discusses the Spirit's role in creation and redemption. He'll also touch on the nature of the Spirit's work and his relationship to the Father and Son.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores the identity, deity, and distinct personhood of the Holy Spirit - the third person of the Trinity. He unpacks the various names used for the Holy Spirit in Scripture, examines attributes that confirm the Spirit's deity, and discusses the Spirit's role in creation and redemption. He'll also touch on the nature of the Spirit's work and his relationship to the Father and Son.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema explores the identity, deity, and distinct personhood of the Holy Spirit - the third person of the Trinity. He unpacks the various names used for the Holy Spirit in Scripture, examines attributes that confirm the Spirit's deity, and discusses the Spirit's role in creation and redemption. He'll also touch on the nature of the Spirit's work and his relationship to the Father and Son.
A new MP3 sermon from Immanuel URC of DeMotte is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: What Good Are 'Good Works' Subtitle: Heidelberg Catechism Speaker: Dr. Cornelis Venema Broadcaster: Immanuel URC of DeMotte Event: Sunday Service Date: 7/21/2024 Bible: Luke 7:36-50 Length: 35 min.
In this episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema provides an in-depth examination of Question and Answer 80 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on its critique of the Catholic Mass. Dr. Venema high-lights two major critiques made by the Catechism against the Mass. First, charging the Mass constitutes an unbiblical, repetitive sacrifice, undermining the completeness of Christ's once-for-all sacrifice on the cross. Second, critiquing the Mass as an idolatrous worship of the physical bread and wine of the Eucharist, charging that elevating and adoring the elements leads to idolatry. In addition to discussing these two major critiques, Dr. Venema examines the relationship between Question and Answer 80 and the Council of Trent, the 16th-century Catholic council that affirmed the doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrificial nature of the Mass.
In this episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema provides an in-depth examination of Question and Answer 80 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on its critique of the Catholic Mass. Dr. Venema highlights two major critiques made by the Catechism against the Mass. First, charging the Mass constitutes an unbiblical, repetitive sacrifice, undermining the completeness of Christ's once-for-all sacrifice on the cross. Second, critiquing the Mass as an idolatrous worship of the physical bread and wine of the Eucharist, charging that elevating and adoring the elements leads to idolatry. In addition to discussing these two major critiques, Dr. Venema examines the relationship between Question and Answer 80 and the Council of Trent, the 16th-century Catholic council that affirmed the doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrificial nature of the Mass.
In this episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema provides an in-depth examination of Question and Answer 80 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on its critique of the Catholic Mass. Dr. Venema high-lights two major critiques made by the Catechism against the Mass. First, charging the Mass constitutes an unbiblical, repetitive sacrifice, undermining the completeness of Christ's once-for-all sacrifice on the cross. Second, critiquing the Mass as an idolatrous worship of the physical bread and wine of the Eucharist, charging that elevating and adoring the elements leads to idolatry. In addition to discussing these two major critiques, Dr. Venema examines the relationship between Question and Answer 80 and the Council of Trent, the 16th-century Catholic council that affirmed the doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrificial nature of the Mass.
In this episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema provides an in-depth examination of Question and Answer 80 of the Heidelberg Catechism, focusing on its critique of the Catholic Mass. Dr. Venema high-lights two major critiques made by the Catechism against the Mass. First, charging the Mass constitutes an unbiblical, repetitive sacrifice, undermining the completeness of Christ's once-for-all sacrifice on the cross. Second, critiquing the Mass as an idolatrous worship of the physical bread and wine of the Eucharist, charging that elevating and adoring the elements leads to idolatry. In addition to discussing these two major critiques, Dr. Venema examines the relationship between Question and Answer 80 and the Council of Trent, the 16th-century Catholic council that affirmed the doctrine of transubstantiation and the sacrificial nature of the Mass.
A new MP3 sermon from Cornerstone United Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: "The Benefits of Christ's Second Coming" Speaker: Dr. Cornelis Venema Broadcaster: Cornerstone United Reformed Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 11/19/2023 Bible: 2 Thessalonians 1 Length: 32 min.
A new MP3 sermon from Cornerstone United Reformed Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: 2. Eschatology Matthew 24 Dr. Cornel Venema 11-18-2023 Speaker: Dr. Cornelis Venema Broadcaster: Cornerstone United Reformed Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 11/18/2023 Length: 57 min.
In this episode, we kick off a three-part series on Question and Answer 80 in the Heidelberg Catechism. Led by President of Mid-America, Dr. Cornelis Venema, this series begins with an overview of the history of the Catechism and the origins specifically of Q&A 80, which deals with what it calls the “popish mass.”
In this episode, we kick off a three-part series on Question and Answer 80 in the Heidelberg Catechism. Led by President of Mid-America, Dr. Cornelis Venema, this series begins with an overview of the history of the Catechism and the origins specifically of Q&A 80, which deals with what it calls the "popish mass."
In this episode, we kick off a three-part series on Question and Answer 80 in the Heidelberg Catechism. Led by President of Mid-America, Dr. Cornelis Venema, this series begins with an overview of the history of the Catechism and the origins specifically of Q-A 80, which deals with what it calls the -popish mass.-
In this episode, we kick off a three-part series on Question and Answer 80 in the Heidelberg Catechism. Led by President of Mid-America, Dr. Cornelis Venema, this series begins with an overview of the history of the Catechism and the origins specifically of Q-A 80, which deals with what it calls the -popish mass.-
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema concludes his series on assurance of salvation by examining the topic of the fruit of salvation and whether it can genuinely be considered a ground for one's confidence and assurance of salvation. Can the visible evidence of a transformed life, the growth in godliness, and the bearing of spiritual fruit truly provide a firm foundation for one's assurance? Dr. Venema answers this question and more in today's episode of Round Table.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema concludes his series on assurance of salvation by examining the topic of the fruit of salvation and whether it can genuinely be considered a ground for one's confidence and assurance of salvation. Can the visible evidence of a transformed life, the growth in godliness, and the bearing of spiritual fruit truly provide a firm foundation for one's assurance? Dr. Venema answers this question and more in today's episode of Round Table.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema concludes his series on assurance of salvation by examining the topic of the fruit of salvation and whether it can genuinely be considered a ground for one's confidence and assurance of salvation. Can the visible evidence of a transformed life, the growth in godliness, and the bearing of spiritual fruit truly provide a firm foundation for one's assurance-- Dr. Venema answers this question and more in today's episode of Round Table.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema concludes his series on assurance of salvation by examining the topic of the fruit of salvation and whether it can genuinely be considered a ground for one's confidence and assurance of salvation. Can the visible evidence of a transformed life, the growth in godliness, and the bearing of spiritual fruit truly provide a firm foundation for one's assurance-- Dr. Venema answers this question and more in today's episode of Round Table.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema delves into the second ground of assurance of salvation as outlined in the Canons of Dort, exploring the profound concept of the testimony of the Holy Spirit. What is the testimony of the Holy Spirit? How does it manifest in the lives of believers? What scriptural basis supports this doctrine? How does it contribute to our assurance of salvation? Dr. Venema provides insightful answers, clarifying misconceptions and shedding light on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit's testimony.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema delves into the second ground of assurance of salvation as outlined in the Canons of Dort, exploring the profound concept of the testimony of the Holy Spirit. What is the testimony of the Holy Spirit-- How does it manifest in the lives of believers-- What scriptural basis supports this doctrine-- How does it contribute to our assurance of salvation-- Dr. Venema provides insightful answers, clarifying misconceptions and shedding light on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit's testimony.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema delves into the second ground of assurance of salvation as outlined in the Canons of Dort, exploring the profound concept of the testimony of the Holy Spirit. What is the testimony of the Holy Spirit-- How does it manifest in the lives of believers-- What scriptural basis supports this doctrine-- How does it contribute to our assurance of salvation-- Dr. Venema provides insightful answers, clarifying misconceptions and shedding light on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit's testimony.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema delves into the second ground of assurance of salvation as outlined in the Canons of Dort, exploring the profound concept of the testimony of the Holy Spirit. What is the testimony of the Holy Spirit? How does it manifest in the lives of believers? What scriptural basis supports this doctrine? How does it contribute to our assurance of salvation? Dr. Venema provides insightful answers, clarifying misconceptions and shedding light on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit's testimony.
Welcome back to Mid-America Reformed Seminary's Round Table podcast. After a rejuvenating month-long hiatus, we are thrilled to be back, eager to bring you fresh and inspiring content that will stimulate your minds and nurture your souls. In today's episode, we are excited to introduce a captivating new series on Assurance of Salvation featuring Dr. Cornelis Venema, who will serve as our guide through this captivating exploration of the grounds of assurance. In this inaugural episode, he will delve into the very heart of the matter, focusing on the gospel promises that lay the foundation for our confidence in salvation.
Welcome back to Mid-America Reformed Seminary's Round Table podcast. After a rejuvenating month-long hiatus, we are thrilled to be back, eager to bring you fresh and inspiring content that will stimulate your minds and nurture your souls. In today's episode, we are excited to introduce a captivating new series on Assurance of Salvation featuring Dr. Cornelis Venema, who will serve as our guide through this captivating exploration of the grounds of assurance. In this inaugural episode, he will delve into the very heart of the matter, focusing on the gospel promises that lay the foundation for our confidence in salvation.
Welcome back to Mid-America Reformed Seminary's Round Table podcast. After a rejuvenating month-long hiatus, we are thrilled to be back, eager to bring you fresh and inspiring content that will stimulate your minds and nurture your souls. In today's episode, we are excited to introduce a captivating new series on Assurance of Salvation featuring Dr. Cornelis Venema, who will serve as our guide through this captivating exploration of the grounds of assurance. In this inaugural episode, he will delve into the very heart of the matter, focusing on the gospel promises that lay the foundation for our confidence in salvation.
Welcome back to Mid-America Reformed Seminary's Round Table podcast. After a rejuvenating month-long hiatus, we are thrilled to be back, eager to bring you fresh and inspiring content that will stimulate your minds and nurture your souls. In today's episode, we are excited to introduce a captivating new series on Assurance of Salvation featuring Dr. Cornelis Venema, who will serve as our guide through this captivating exploration of the grounds of assurance. In this inaugural episode, he will delve into the very heart of the matter, focusing on the gospel promises that lay the foundation for our confidence in salvation.
In this special Holy Week episode, Caleb discusses the doctrine of the atonement with friend and church member Andrew Owen. Andrew is a serious student of the Bible, a lover of covenant theology, and historical theology thus offering a helpful perspective on just what Christ accomplished on the cross for his people and why we should spend sustained time during this Christian holiday contemplating the work of Jesus Christ on the cross. Recommended Resources: But for the Grace of God: An Exposition of the Canons of Dort by Cornelis Venema https://a.co/d/iki1blM Salvation Accomplished by the Son: The Work of Christ by Robert Peterson https://a.co/d/67fCyBG From Heaven He Came and Sought Her: Definite Atonement in Historical, Biblical, Theological, and Pastoral Perspective by multiple authors https://a.co/d/eMp3U3v
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema addresses some of the assaults on the doctrines of justification and sanctification: (1) Federal Vision theology as espoused by Norman Shepherd, and (2) the radical antinomian/anti-Lordship salvation views of Zane Hodges.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema addresses some of the assaults on the doctrine of justification- -1- Federal Vision theology as espoused by Norman Shepherd, and -2- the radical antinomian-anti-Lordship salvation views of Zane Hodges.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema addresses some of the assaults on the doctrine of justification- -1- Federal Vision theology as espoused by Norman Shepherd, and -2- the radical antinomian-anti-Lordship salvation views of Zane Hodges.
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema leads us in a two-part series on justification and sanctification. This first episode deals with Reformer John Calvin's view on the relationship between those two fundamental doctrines, followed next time with Dr. Venema's addressing the topic of the dispute of these doctrines within many Reformed and Presbyterian and broadly evangelical contexts.
Drs. Alan Strange and Cornelis Venema speak about the practice of catechetical preaching both from a practical as well as historical perspective. While the practice is more common within the Dutch Reformed tradition, Dr. Strange also provides a case for Presbyterians to engage in preaching using the Westminster Standards as aids. Regardless of where you may land on the particular role of secondary standards in organizing the preaching of the Word, this conversation useful and instructive for considering how the church may best instruct her members. Dr. Cornelis Venema is Professor of Doctrinal Studies and President of Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. Dr. Alan Strange is Professor of Church History, Registrar, and Theological Librarian of Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana.
Drs. Alan Strange and Cornelis Venema speak about the practice of catechetical preaching both from a practical as well as historical perspective. While the practice is more common within the Dutch Reformed tradition, Dr. Strange also provides a case for Presbyterians to engage in preaching using the Westminster Standards as aids. Regardless of where you […]