Podcast appearances and mentions of don carson

In this talk recorded at TGC's 2018 women's conference, Don Carson considers four New Testament passages that talk about the Law in relation to Jesus. He considers the Greek meaning of the word “fulfill,” explains the theological concept called the three-fold division of the law (moral, civil, and ceremonial), and discusses Old Testament typologies and trajectories.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this TGC Classic recorded at TGW2014, Tim and Kathy Keller, John Piper, Kathleen Nielson, and Don Carson discuss why they are complementarians and how they see their theology work out practically in life and ministry. With candor and humor, they tell personal stories of how they came to their positions, address key exegetical questions, and discuss misconceptions surrounding Complementarian theology. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Les appels à partir en mission pour évangéliser nous concernent-ils toujours aujourd'hui ? L'auteur de la question rebondit sur des arguments passés de Florent concernant les auteurs et les objectifs fixés par Jésus pour la réalisation de miracles, et se demande s'il ne serait pas judicieux d'adopter le même recul vis-à-vis des mandats missionnaires. Découvrez sa réponse dans ce 503e épisode.

John 16:25–33,“I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech but will tell you plainly about the Father. 26 In that day you will ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf; 27 for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God. 28 I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father.”29 His disciples said, “Ah, now you are speaking plainly and not using figurative speech! 30 Now we know that you know all things and do not need anyone to question you; this is why we believe that you came from God.” 31 Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? 32 Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. 33 I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”Let's start this morning with the last verse — verse 33 — when Jesus says, “I have said these things …” The “these things” is referring to what he has just said (in the most recent verses), but he also has in mind the entire Farewell Discourse going back to Chapter 13. Remember it's still Thursday night, and Jesus has been teaching his disciples this whole time to prepare them for a world where he is physically absent. The next chapter, Chapter 17, is a concluding prayer that Jesus prays, but the teaching part of the Farewell Discourse concludes here with Chapter 16, in verse 33. And so when Jesus says “these things” in verse 33, he's talking about all of that teaching. Which means: what he has just said, and all of what he has said going back to Chapter 13, is for the same purpose. Jesus tells us that purpose in verse 33.He says, “I have said these things to you, [so that] in me you may have peace.”It's very clear: The reason Jesus has been saying what he's been saying from Chapter 13 through Chapter 16 is so that in him you and me may have peace.Now we know! So tomorrow at work or school when someone asks you, “Hey, what's the purpose of the Farewell Discourse?” — you know the answer! You say, “The purpose is my peace.” Jesus wants me to have peace in him. Can you believe that? Can you believe that Jesus really wants you to have peace?That's what our passage today is about. Jesus shows us three ways he gives us this peace, and for the sermon, that's what I want to show you. Looking at verses 25–33, I'm going to tell you three ways that Jesus gives us peace in him.1. Jesus gives us peace by showing us the Father's love (verses 25–28).It's gonna take us a minute to get there, but let's start at verse 25 again. Jesus says, I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech but will tell you plainly about the Father. There are three things to track with here: First is how Jesus has been speaking.Second, is why that is about to change. Third, the effect of the change.Has Been SpeakingAs for how Jesus has been speaking, he says it's been in “figures of speech” — which is a super broad category. The word there can refer to all kinds of speech like proverbs, parables, maxims, similes, allegories, fables, and even riddles. Last week that's what Pastor Marshall called what Jesus says in verse 16. It's like a riddle. It makes you think a little bit. Another example is verse 21 when Jesus talks about childbirth — You know when a mother is preparing to give birth, there's a lot of pain, but then after the delivery she's happy to have the baby — we heard about that last week. That's an image, a picture, for how to think about your sorrow turning to joy. Your sorrow is gonna have a baby!That kind of speaking falls under that category of “figures of speech” and Jesus says that's how he's been doing it. He's that kind of teacher. (And Jesus was a brilliant teacher. He's the best teacher to ever walk this earth.) About to ChangeBut the way he's been speaking is about to change. He's going to start telling us plainly about the Father. And that word for plainly could also be translated boldly or frankly (it is a glorious word in the Book of Acts). And to understand what Jesus means by it, we need to understand the timing of this change. When he says “the hour is coming” in verse 25 and “in that day” in verse 26, he's talking about after his death and resurrection, when the Holy Spirit is sent. The coming plainness of his teaching is owing to the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Jesus has told us this, 16:13When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak… [which means whatever he hears from me he will speak].Jesus is saying that the Holy Spirit's ministry continues his ministry.This is a major theme in this section: Jesus being physically absent does not limit his ministry, but actually, because of the Spirit, his ministry is magnified! His message, his truth, will go broader and deeper than ever before. That's what to expect “in that day” — the new day of the Spirt, after Jesus's death and resurrection.And church, Jesus was right. You know one thing different about the year 2026 from the year 30? In 2026, far more people have understood the truth about Jesus than when he first spoke these words in the year 30. Jesus was right. It's a fact. His message has advanced more. His ministry has been magnified more … after his death and resurrection, because of the Spirit. That's the change. The Effect of the ChangeAnd the effect of the change is the access we now have to the Father. That's the difference all this makes. That's what it's all about — our relationship to the Father.Jesus is of course our way to the Father, but he really does bring us to the Father — he brings us into real relationship with the Father as his children. Romans 8:15 — we have received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry “Abba! Father!” Jesus has made this reality, which means: the Father doesn't need to use Jesus as an administrative assistant.Recently, I needed to contact someone who would be considered a “high-profile person” (they probably get a lot of emails). But I had the person's direct email, so I used that, and I got a reply. But it was from an assistant, speaking on behalf of the person. And I understand. I get it. There needs to be layers of distance and certain restrictions of access. But now for us, with the Father, there is no such distance. There are no such restrictions. Because of Jesus.By his death and resurrection, through the sending of the Sprit, Jesus has truly made us sons and daughters of God, and therefore we get to pray to God as his sons and daughters. And God welcomes us that way. Jesus says, in verse 27, “the Father himself loves you.”And that is so important for us to hear. Sometimes people can make the mistake of thinking that the Father is determined to show us wrath, but it's the Son who is constantly standing in between us and the Father. As if the Father is all frown, and the Son is all mercy.But that's wrong. The Bible is clear. Jesus is clear. The Father himself loves us.Don't forget: the coming of Jesus to this world was from the Father! The death of Jesus for us was the demonstration of the Father's love! Ultimately, Jesus is gonna bring us with him to the Father's house.That's what all this is about. That's what Jesus wants us to know. He is showing us the Father.How deep the Father's love for us!How vast beyond all measure!That he should give his only SonTo make a wretch his treasure!The Father himself loves you, Christian. The Father loves you, Jesus says. And him showing us this gives us peace. 2. Jesus gives us peace by not giving up on us (verses 29-32).Verse 29 is the disciples' reply to Jesus. And I appreciate that John doesn't mention any of them by name, but this is reflective of the whole group. They all said verse 29.And it's not just what they said, but how they said it. I'll do a paraphrase, but track with the tone. Basically, they reply: Oh! Finally, Jesus! We get it now! We know what you mean! Now that you're talking so plainly, we understand exactly who you are and what you're saying — Except they didn't. There's an irony here. The disciples are still confused, but now they think they get it (which is almost a worse place to be). Don Carson comments,“No misunderstanding is more pathetic than that which thinks it no longer exists.”These guys, all of them, are still missing it, and Jesus calls them out. He says in verse 31, “Do you now believe?” We translate it in English as a question, but literally it's the statement: “Now you believe.” The idea is that Jesus is saying it with exasperation, like: Now you believe! It has an unconvinced ring to it. Jesus sees right through their self-declared understanding, and he really bursts their bubble in verse 32: “Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me.”He says: Now you believe! Is that right? In a matter of moments, you're all going to run. You're all gonna leave me. And if we were in Jesus's shoes, we could imagine how easy it would be to resent these guys. It's one thing to know they're going to leave you, but then to hear them flex like this … that they would posture themselves as if they're so devout, but you know it's all a bag of wind — that is the world's most favorite take-down. The world dreams of embarrassing people like this, and Jesus could do that here. But you know what he does?The very next thing he says is that he wants them to have peace. These guys! People like them, … like us. …You may remember, some weeks ago in John 14, we noted that in this section of the Farewell Discourse, John seems to feature the weaknesses of the disciples. He highlights several of them by name, and they're all at least a little bit off (we see that here). And we saw that one thing John is making clear is that the only kind of disciple there can be is an imperfect disciple. And I hope we can see now that such a statement says more about Jesus than it does us — it says more about his patience than it does our weakness. Oh the patience of Jesus!They will scatter, he stands fast,They will falter, he will last;He bears with them, weak and slow,Refusing still to let them go.Jesus is not done with these guys, and he's not done with us. I mean that for us — each of us. Even those of us who are hyper-aware of our failures. Some of us just live there all the time. We always feel like we never measure up. We constantly miss the mark. And then we feel badly for feeling badly. We just cannot imagine ourselves being anything more than a miserable sinner.But do you realize that these same men in Chapter 16 who are still scratching their heads about Jesus are gonna end up changing the world? Like within a year of this moment! Look, we have to stop underestimating what it means that Jesus will never give up on us. If you're still here, he's not done with you. Psalm 138:8,“The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.”He would never. And isn't there peace in that? Jesus gives us peace by showing us the Father's love, and by not giving up on us, and then third …3. Jesus gives us peace by overcoming the world (verse 33).This is verse 33, the final verse in Jesus's teaching here, and it's a verse to memorize. I at least want everybody to see it, so help me out and find verse 33. John 16, verse 33. Verse 33: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace.”Again, that's the purpose. We've seen that, but now listen … Jesus says:“In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”This statement from Jesus is so amazing that I hardly know what to do with it. It is so precious and powerful and clear that I just don't want to be in the way. The statement has three parts: Fact, Exhortation, Bigger Fact. Part 1, the fact is: in this world you will have tribulation. Some translations say trouble. It means affliction or distress. And it's important to note that it's tribulations in this world and of this world. There's no such thing in heaven. This is only the case here, in this world. I appreciate what John Calvin says. He writes:Under the term “world,” Christ here includes all that is opposed to the salvation of believers, and especially all the corruptions which Satan abuses for the purpose of laying snares for us.That stuff happens here. It will happen in this world, Jesus tells us. But then he exhorts us. Part 2, the exhortation is: “But take heart.” And that's a perfect translation. The word means to be courageous, but it lands more like an encouragement than an order. It means: Steady yourself! Be of good cheer! Take heart! — that's the idea, and it's what we're supposed to do in the face of tribulation, which, if we stopped here, would make no sense. Because everything in us wants to flee tribulation. We want to protect ourselves! We don't want trouble! So how can Jesus say “take heart”? …egō nenikēka ton kosmonI have overcome the world. Fact: in this world you will have tribulation. Exhortation: take heart because there's a bigger fact to the fact of this world — Jesus has conquered the world.That's what the word means. To overcome means to conquer. And it's not a hypothetical conquering, or a merely psychological conquering. This is an objective conquering. Jesus Christ has won the decisive victory over this world and everything it could ever bring against us — and that makes a difference for how we live in this world.It's like ESPN Classic.If you don't know about ESPN Classic, it's basically an entire channel of old sports games. And I actually know the guy who came up with the idea. True story. It was 2003, he was a big Ohio State football fan, and Ohio State beat Miami in a epic Fiesta Bowl game. It was one of those nail-biters, a close game, a tough game, but Ohio State won in double overtime. Well, after the game, my friend had the idea: I wanna watch this game again now that I know the outcome. I should get the license to this game and burn it on a DVD.He got the license. He made some DVDs and he sold them like that! Then he said, Hmm, let me try that again. So he got more old games, from more teams, from more sports, and in no time that became his job, and then later he sold the idea to ESPN Classic.Come to find out: sports fans really like to watch their team in games they already know they're gonna win! In fact, it's a much more encouraging experience, because during the game they get to take heart. The setbacks still happen — the mistakes are still there, the bad calls are still there — but they get to watch the game knowing the end of the story. That's what Jesus is saying here: Look, you're gonna have tribulation in this world. Setbacks are gonna still happen in this world. But I've conquered the world. The world does not have the final say. I do. I have won the victory. So take heart.Take heart when you get a megaphone of hatred in your face.Take heart when you are slandered and threatened and opposed. Take heart because no matter how bad it gets in this world, the only kind of world Christians can live in is a conquered world. And that gives us peace. That is peace in Jesus. Not peace in this world. We don't have peace in the weather — it's a raging storm out there — but we have peace in our Shelter. There are going to be battles, but we have peace in the bigger fact that every battle we will ever face is a battle Jesus Christ has already won.Father, thank you that Jesus has won every battle for us, and that includes, first, the battle for our souls against the enemies of sin and death. Thank you that Jesus died on the cross for us, in our place, to set us free from our sin and the wrath we deserve. Thank you that through faith in Jesus, the freedom he has won for us becomes ours. Thank you that we can truly share in his victory even in this world. And that, Father, is cause to rejoice and be glad, no matter our circumstances, no matter the setbacks. Jesus is our Rock. By your grace, we trust him — by your Spirit, help us to trust him more, in his name, amen.

Leading evangelical seminary plans move from United States to Canada.Trinity Evangelical Divinity School rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s under its second dean, Kenneth Kantzer. Its renowned faculty—including Don Carson, Walt Kaiser, John Woodbridge, Wayne Grudem, and Carl F. H. Henry—helped American evangelicals recover from the fundamentalist/modernist controversies of the early 20th century, as well as the inerrancy dispute that erupted at Fuller Theological Seminary in 1962.By the early 21st century, TEDS alumni, including David Wells, Mark Noll, Doug Moo, and Craig Blomberg, held research positions in other seminaries, while Michael Oh led the Lausanne Movement.Long plagued with financial problems, TEDS leaders announced in April they would close the campus north of Chicago after the current school year as they merge with and relocate to Trinity Western University in British Columbia. Kevin Vanhoozer announced that instead of moving to Canada, he would join the faculty at Wheaton College's Litfin Divinity School.In other blows to the long-standing influence of Chicago-area theological education, Northern Seminary struggled through a presidential transition, and Trinity Christian College announced its closure after more than 60 years. The balance of evangelical power in the United States continues to shift to the South.For more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 3:30 am and 7:30 am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on KSPD 94.5 FM and 790 AM Boise's Solid Talk in the Treasure Valley, Idaho, USA. If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them. Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website: https://www.790kspd.com/gospel-for-life/

Jamie Mackay talks to Don Carson, Steve Wyn-Harris, Jeremy Rookes, Nathan Guy, Rowena Duncum, Craig Wiggins, Chris Brandolino, and Hamish McKay.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John 10:7-18,So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. 12 He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd. 17 For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This charge I have received from my Father.”I wonder what comes to your mind when you hear the phrase “abundant life.”David Livingstone (1813–1873) was a Scottish Christian and physician and pioneer missionary, who sailed for Africa in 1840. He spent 16 years in the African wild and returned to London as a hero in late 1856. He had spent the prime of his life encountering physical difficulties and spiritual darkness. And soon he would go back for more.While on furlough, Livingstone spoke to students at Cambridge and explained why he left the comforts of England to serve as a missionary. It had not been easy, and he acknowledged the costs: anxiety, sickness, suffering, frequent danger. He spoke of “foregoing the common conveniences and charities of this life.” But, very memorably, he insisted that this was no sacrifice, but a privilege: “I never made a sacrifice.”The gain of godly sacrifice so outweighed the pains that, in hindsight, it did not feel sacrificial. The sacrifices were real, but the privilege, and joys, far greater.Livingstone embraced the hard life in Africa not just because he found life in Jesus, but because he had found abundant life in Jesus. He wasn't just saved; he was satisfied. He found life to the full. Not minimal life but over-the-top life, more-than-enough life — life spilling over in such joy that he would risk great pains to bring others that great joy.For Livingstone, abundant life didn't mean a comfortable, easy life. It meant he had enough in Jesus, more than enough, to embrace difficulty and discomfort.More Than Just LifeWe come this morning to John 10, and this amazing declaration of Jesus to us in verse 10:“I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”I want you to hear Jesus speaking that to you this morning:“I came that you may have life and have it abundantly.”Not just life. Jesus says “have life and have it abundantly.” What is he adding when he adds “abundance”? Why not stop at life. Why say abundant life? That's our focus this morning.As many of you know, I greatly appreciate Don Carson, and named a son after him, and want to give you this preliminary word from him about this abundant life offered to us in John 10. Talking about the image of the shepherd and the sheep, he says that “abundant life” means contented, flourishing sheep, not terrorized by [thieves]; outside the narrative world, it means that the life Jesus' true disciples enjoy is not to be construed as more time to fill (merely ‘everlasting' life), but life at its scarcely imagined best, life to be lived. (Gospel According to John, 385)That is the life Jesus is offering you this morning. Not just more time to fill. Not just getting out of hell. Not just being unstained from the world and watching clean videos or NFL or keeping up with the news. You are invited into “life at its scarcely imagined best.” You are offered “life to be lived,” life worth living.Let me be clear: the main point of this passage is the greatness of Jesus. He is the good shepherd. He enters by the God-appointed door (and doesn't climb in another way, like the Pharisees). He calls his sheep by name, and they hear his voice, and follow him. He leads them out into a life of abundance. And he is the one who genuinely cares for his sheep and willingly lays down his life for them.The main point is the greatness of Jesus.And, get this, the abundant life of the sheep demonstrates the greatness of the shepherd. When the sheep thrive, their shepherd looks great. The shepherd gets the glory in the flourishing, abundant life of his sheep. Jesus is glorified in the satisfaction of his people — and that not apart from him, but in him, conscious of him, recognizing him.Ultimately, we're talking about people here, not sheep. Happy sheep, full of green grass, beside still waters, don't look up and say, “Isn't my shepherd great?” But Christians aren't animals. We're not actually sheep. We're meant to consciously enjoy our shepherd, through his care for us, and say out loud, “Isn't he great?”So, we want to know and experience this “abundant life” that shows the greatness of Jesus. How might Jesus's very words in John 10 help us with what this abundant life is, and is not?I see at least five aspects of this abundant life that Jesus offers us.1. The Abundant Life Is a Rescued Life.The story of our quest for abundance began in a lavish, abundant garden, but quickly came the reality of sin. In a world of yes, our first parents sinned against God's one no and plunged us all into sin and its curse and its misery. We all are born into sin, and we all sin. Ecclesiastes 7:20,“Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.”Everyone in this room has sinned, and sins. And that's the gravest danger in every life in this room: your own sin, my own sin. The biggest threat is not what others have done or might do to us. And not even what Satan himself might do to us. The greatest threat is our own sin, which separates us from a holy God, and deserves his righteous wrath. We have to get this first to be able to move forward in the story of abundance.So, we begin with the Shepherd's rescue. Verse 11, Jesus says,“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”Why would he lay down his life? Because the sheep, his people, deserve to die. We have sinned against him. We deserve eternal separation from him, and eternal condemnation from him. Except that, again in verse 15, “I lay down my life for the sheep.”And that he “lays it down” means that he does it willingly. Intentionally. Purposefully. Jesus wasn't the victim of a first-century accident. Nor was Jesus's life merely “taken from him.” We often grieve the tragic “taking of life,” and we should. And there's a sense in which Jesus was killed unjustly. These same Pharisees he confronts in John 9 and 10 increasingly want to get rid of him and soon will conspire with the Jerusalem elite. In one sense Jesus's life would be taken by sinners.Yet in another, more fundamental sense, no one would take it from him. Look at verses 17–18:“I lay down my life that I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again.”Who can talk like this? Anyone can choose to lay down their life, but who — who but God himself in human flesh — has authority to take it up again? Oh the greatness of Jesus.The reason Jesus's perfect, sinless life can be effective for the rescuing of his sinful, hell-deserving people is that he lays down his life willingly, on purpose, and he takes it up again.And so, first, the abundant life is a rescued life. Jesus died to rescue us from our own sin. From our sin nature. From past sins. And he is continuing to rescue us from the misery of indwelling sin.That leads us to a second aspect.2. The Abundant Life Is a Relational Life.Forgiveness gets the penalty of sin out of the way that the rescue might lead to a real, personal, life-giving relationship with the Shepherd. To be related and relate to him as persons. To know him and be personally known by him. To love him, and be loved by him, who calls his own by name.Church, this is stunning. This is the heart of the real life, the abundant life. This is the single most important thing to say about “abundant life.” Number 1 was just life. We are sinners; we deserve death. Jesus lays down his own life that our sins might be covered, that we might be forgiven, that we might have life, eternal life, and not misery, forever.But then, to that life, Jesus adds these precious words: “and have it abundantly.” Now we get to the very heart and bottom of this passage: verses 14-15, which is the most important statement in the passage. Look at verses 14-15. Jesus says,“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father . . . .”Did you get that? Let's start with verse 15 and work backwards. Jesus says, The Father knows me, and I know the Father. Amazing. The eternal divine life of the Godhead (talk about abundant!) — Father knowing and loving his Son, and Son knowing and loving his Father.Then see that “just as” at the beginning of verse 15? Jesus makes a claim about an experience of “mutual knowledge” in verse 14 and then he compares it to the “mutual knowledge” between him and his divine Father. And he compares them by saying “just as.” He doesn't say “contrary to” or “unlike.” He doesn't contrast these relationships but says “just as.” He compares them positively. He says they are alike:“Just as my Father knows me and I know my Father, so I know my own [people] and my own know me.”Church, this is the heart of the abundant life. The abundant life is not food and drink and splendid clothes and fancy cars and mansions of glory, and endless hours on devices. What makes this life abundant is knowing and enjoying the Shepherd, and being known and enjoyed by him.Which is why the voice of Jesus is so prominent in John 10. Voice is the medium of relationship. Did you notice how many times his voice in mentioned? Verse 3: the sheep hear his voiceVerse 3: he calls his own sheep by name (how personal!)Verse 4: the sheep follow him, for they know his voiceVerse 16: other sheep too will listen to his voiceHave you ever reflected on how important voices are to relationships? How well could you get to know someone without words? You can see what's on the outside. They can gesture and use facial expressions to try to communicate. But words reveal with clarity what's on the inside. The voice and its words are the primary medium of relationship.And this morning Jesus himself, risen, reigning, glorified, alive, is speaking to us through his words in John 10, saying, in essence, Where are you trying to find life? Your human soul was not only made to live but to live abundantly — lavishly, richly, contentedly, fully. Where are you going for life? Come to me.So, the full-to-overflowing life, the life worth living, life at its scarcely best imagined, abundant life at its height and at its bottom is: Jesus knows his own and his own know him — just as the Father knows him and he knows the Father.The point is this: Come to the Good Shepherd and keep coming. Hear his voice in his word. Enjoy the privilege of prayer. Follow him. The abundant life is life in and with the Good Shepherd. But it is not life with him only. There's a third aspect here.3. The Abundant Life Is an Expansive Life.Life in Jesus expands to include others. It is full to overflowing, and spills over to draw others in. First, other sheep who are fellow believers. The abundant life is not a solitary life. It is a life in relationship with others who have found abundant life in Jesus.And it expands to include “other sheep” not yet in the fold. Verse 16 starts with such an important “and”:“And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice. So there will be one flock, one shepherd.”Now we need to clarify a few things about this image of the sheepfold and the gate and the shepherd coming and calling to his sheep. Picture a large, fenced-in, fold, shared by multiple families. The sheep are kept safe in the fold; a gatekeeper guards the one gate, so no one can access the sheep except the owners. When a rightful shepherd comes, he opens the gate, and the shepherd comes in and lifts up his voice. His own sheep know his voice and come to him, and he leads them out to green grass and live the abundant life of sheep, and come back in for safety.But remember, Jesus is here confronting the Pharisees. The sheepfold is the Jewish people. Jesus comes, and lifts up his voice, and his sheep, not the whole pen, but just his sheep follow his voice, and the rest remain.Then in verse 16, Jesus introduces “other sheep that are not of this fold.” That is, not Jews. The Son of God has come; he has entered the fold through the gate as a rightful owner and shepherd. He has lifted up his voice and his sheep are coming to him, not all the Jews, but those who are his. And Jesus says he has “other sheep” not of this Jewish fold: Gentiles.So, there is not only a narrowing when the good shepherd comes, but also an expanding. He keeps calling to Jews, and he calls to Gentiles. And as many “other sheep” as are his, he brings. And the one shepherd makes “one flock” of his Jewish and Gentile sheep.So, the abundant life is not just me and the shepherd, but it is expansive.If anything in us balks at that, we need to know this: Jesus is the kind of shepherd in whom joy increases as other sheep join. Resist the scarcity mindset that would say, If more come, that means I get less of Jesus. It's the opposite. The more that truly come, the more who are truly changed and made holy, the more we see of Jesus, the more we enjoy him, the more he's glorified, the more we're amazed at him, the more we praise him.The reason I began this sermon with David Livingstone is verse 16 brought him to mind. It appears on his gravestone, in the voice of the Shepherd: “Other sheep I have, which are not of this fold; them also I must bring.”So, the abundant life is a rescued life, a relational life, an expansive life, and fourth, it's embattled.4. The Abundant Life Is an Embattled Life.Embattle means opposed. Challenged. As Jesus calls out his “one flock” from among Jews and Gentiles, his people are drawn out from others, and various tensions and divisions are inevitable. We see it right here in the very context where Jesus is teaching:9:40: “Some of the Pharisees near him . . .”10:19: “There was again a division among the Jews because of these words . . .” So, tension up front with the Pharisees; division among Jews at the end, right on cue. And Jesus mentions robbers and thieves and wolves — that is, opponents and threats. For now, abundant life does not mean an unopposed life. Abundant life is not an easy life, comfortable life. Yes, it is truly abundant life already, in knowing Jesus, but also it is not yet in its fullness, with every enemy defeated and every tear wiped away.There are costs to be counted in this abundant life. Divisions and tensions come. Don't be surprised by them. They will come. We don't need to provoke them unnecessarily. Make Jesus the issue, not your own immaturity. And when divisions come because of him, be careful about how quickly you rush to smooth over tensions. Often unbelievers need the relational tension and felt sense of division to ponder the real issues in life. Don't give in too quick just to keep the artificial peace. Let it sit, and pray. And be ready for them to come around and receive them humbly; be the kind of person in humility that people can expect will receive them back humbly.Life now in Jesus is already abundant, but not yet fully so. Greater abundance is coming. Ephesians 2:7: “in the coming ages [God will] show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.” But this life in him even now is abundant enough to be enough in sorrows and pain and suffering.So, abundant life is rescued, relational, expansive, embattled, and finally secure.5. The Abundant Life Is a Kept Life.Abundant life is kept by the good shepherd. He guards his sheep. He keeps us. He keeps us secure, even in the tensions and divisions and many sufferings and sorrows. His ultimate protection is a vital part of what it means to have a good shepherd. Verses 12-13:“He who is a hired hand and not a shepherd, who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. 13 He flees because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.”But not Jesus. He cares. He says, “I am the good shepherd.” When he laid down his life, he didn't stay dead. If the shepherd's dead, the sheep are goners. But Jesus took up his life again. And he always lives to intercede for us and keep us. His resurrection life is invincible, and he sits in victory on heaven's throne, knowing and protecting (from ultimate harm) every sheep who is his own.Which brings us once more to his Father. What does Jesus mean in verse 17 when he says, “For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life that I may take it up again”? Is Jesus saying that he earns the love of his Father by laying down his life for us? The point is more subtle.What does a loving father do when his son accomplishes something great? He is overjoyed. He rejoices abundantly. He delights in his son. He loves his son. He's always loved his son, and he feels a special surge of love for his son when he achieves something great.Do you know what is the greatest single achievement in the history of the world? It's this good shepherd laying down his life for his sheep, and taking up his life again in victory, in conquest, in triumph over sin and death and Satan.Which brings us to the Table.Great in the Blood of the CovenantWe worked through Hebrews in 2023, and we finished with that great shepherd doxology in Hebrews 13:20-21. Listen for the connection to John 10:Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, 21 equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.Here the shepherd is great — did you catch that? And the reason he is great, says Hebrews, is “the blood of the eternal covenant.” Jesus shed the redeeming blood. Remember this is about the greatness of Jesus. He did not die by accident. He was no mere victim. No one took his life from him. He laid it down of his own accord. And he took it up again. And so at this Table we remember his greatness.

Charlie is back from the Venice Film Festival Immersive, where he also judged the Reply AI Film Festival. His standout was Blur, which he shared with Ted and Rony, though the Grand Prize went to The Clouds Are 2000 Meters Up. He also praised Doug Liman's Asteroid on Samsung's Moohan headset and noted growing work on Apple Vision Pro.In the news: Anthropic raised $13B at a $183B valuation, Replit secured $250M, Viture raised $100M, Mojo Vision closed $75M, and Higgsfield raised $50M. Rony highlighted Rivet's Army award and Brainlab's ML2 FDA clearance. Apple AirPods added live translation.Don Carson joined to discuss Walkabout Mini Golf and the upcoming Alice in Wonderland course, set for December. Carson, a former Disney Imagineer and now senior art director at Mighty Coconut, explained how each hole is designed as a vignette to guide players through the story. Amazon is preparing new smart glasses, and TwinMind is testing lifelogging concepts.Thank you to our sponsor, Zappar!Don't forget to like, share, and follow for more! Follow us on all socials @TheAIXRPodcasthttps://linktr.ee/thisweekinxr Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this lecture, Don Carson examines Revelation 5 to underscore Christ's unparalleled worthiness to open the scroll, symbolizing God's sovereign plan for redemption and judgment. Carson emphasizes that only the Lamb—Jesus Christ—can enact God's purposes, highlighting His central role in the cosmic narrative. Carson calls believers to respond with worship and adoration, recognizing Christ's supremacy and victory over evil.He teaches the following:Why Jesus alone is worthy to open the scroll, signifying His unique authorityChrist's worthiness to open the scroll signifies His final triumph over sin, evil, and deathHow the scroll represents God's sovereign purposes for judgment and redemptionHow the Lamb symbolizes complete power and knowledgeJesus has established universal dominion, making believers a kingdom and priests to serve GodChrist's redemption is not limited to one group, but extends to all peoples, nations, and tonguesThe significance of angelic praise of the Lamb, acknowledging His eternal worthHow Christ bridges the gap between God and humanity, fulfilling God's redemptive purposes

In this lecture, Don Carson delves into Revelation 4, presenting a vivid portrayal of God's throne room. Carson emphasizes the holiness and sovereignty of God, highlighting the worship of celestial beings. Carson underscores the significance of this vision for believers, offering encouragement to remain steadfast and hopeful amidst trials, as it reaffirms God's ultimate authority and divine purpose.He teaches the following:How God's throne in Heaven symbolizes His supreme authorityHow a rainbow encircling the throne symbolizes God's covenant and mercyThe twenty-four elders surrounding the throne represent the redeemed people of GodAll things were created by God's will and exist for His pleasureThe repeated proclamation of "Holy, holy, holy" underscores God's absolute purity and separatenessRevelation 4 emphasizes that God reigns over all creation, despite the world's perspectiveHow Revelation 4 reminds believers to remain faithful amidst trialsVivid descriptions in Revelation highlight the transcendence and mystery of God's nature

Don Carson started as an illustrator, but soon his work expanded beyond the sketchbook to focus on the design of physical and virtual spaces. He worked as a Senior Show Designer, as an Imagineer, he designed entire lands for the Disney Parks and he is now Sr. Art Director at Mighty Coconut, the team behind Walkabout Minigolf, one of the most popular and loved apps on the Meta Quest. In this conversation we look at:How the team has embraced the low-poly graphics to create worlds people loveSome of the major challenges when it comes to building worlds and telling storiesHis secret for engaging and keeping players hookedDon offers me a guided tour of Raptor's Cliff to experience firsthand some of the storytelling techniques that make Walkabout's worlds so popular and of course, I get the chance to showcase my terrible golfing skillsSubscribe to XR AI Spotlight weekly newsletter

Don Carson discusses the concept of flexibility in gospel proclamation based on 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. He explains how Paul adapted his message to different audiences, emphasizing the need to win people to Christ without compromising the gospel. Carson considers John Travis's "C1 to C6 spectrum" of Christ-centered communities in light of Paul's message, and highlights the importance of flexibility in evangelism while maintaining the integrity of the gospel message.

In this lecture, Don Carson explores the distinctive role of apocalyptic literature in biblical theology. Carson highlights how its vivid imagery and symbolism convey transcendent truths about God, moral absolutes, and the ultimate fulfillment of biblical themes. Carson underscores the genre's effectiveness in evangelism, teaching believers to anticipate Christ's return, and revealing the cosmic dimensions of spiritual conflict.He teaches the following:How apocalyptic literature employs vivid imagery to convey transcendent truthsHow Revelation draws upon earlier scriptures, weaving them into a comprehensive vision of God's ultimate purposesWhy the phrase "I will be their God, and they will be my people" reaches its fulfillment in RevelationApocalyptic literature provides a cosmic perspective on spiritual conflictHow this genre highlights the sovereignty of God over all eventsHow the symbolic language of apocalyptic literature invites deeper reflectionWhy preaching apocalyptic texts requires careful exegesisApocalyptic texts remind the church of its eschatological hope and the promise of Christ's return

In this lecture, Don Carson teaches that Jesus Christ must remain the central focus in interpretations of the Book of Revelation. Carson critiques various scholarly approaches that often marginalize Christ, urging that all aspects of Revelation are inseparable from His death and resurrection. Carson underscores that Revelation presents a grand vision of Christ's mediatorial kingship and priesthood, culminating in the New Heaven and New Earth.He teaches the following:Why Revelation should be read with Jesus at its center, as both the agent and substance of God's revelationHow Revelation highlights Jesus's fulfillment of Old Testament themesHow Revelation 1:12–16 draws from Daniel's vision of the "Ancient of Days”Descriptions of Jesus's authority in Revelation are rooted in the initial vision of His gloryJesus's death and resurrection empower Him to open the seals, unfolding God's purposesJesus's authority brings both judgment and salvation–signified by trumpet judgments and the final judgmentIn the new creation, God will have eternal presence with His people

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses the unique nature of apocalyptic literature, emphasizing its distinct historical context and symbolic language. Carson argues that apocalyptic texts like Revelation can be engaging and evangelistically effective. Carson discusses the importance of understanding these texts within their original setting and literary genre to grasp their full theological significance.He teaches the following:Why apocalyptic literature is often perceived as an "alien genre"The Book of Revelation serves as a primary example of apocalyptic literature, offering a narrative framework with divine revelationsHow Revelation presents a cosmic perspective on spiritual realitiesWhy apocalyptic literature employs vivid imagery to convey profound truthsHow Revelation blends apocalyptic and prophetic styles, urging repentance amidst impending judgmentUnderstanding apocalyptic literature requires immersion in its historical and cultural contextHow engaging with Revelation can enhance preaching, offering rich theological insights and eschatological hopeWhy this genre's symbolism invites imaginative engagement in preaching

In this lecture, Don Carson examines 2 Thessalonians 3, offering practical guidance for Christians living between Christ's first and second comings. Carson emphasizes the importance of prioritizing gospel advancement through prayer and cultivating peace amidst a turbulent world. Carson teaches that waiting for the end times involves active obedience, communal responsibility, and reliance on God's faithfulness.He teaches the following:Why believers should distance themselves from those who are idleHow Paul emphasized the importance of personal responsibilityBelievers should live counter culturally, challenging societal norms that contradict biblical teachingsThe necessity of peace with God through ChristBelievers are called to live out the gospel, demonstrating love, perseverance, and responsibilityThe importance of communal responsibility and discipline in maintaining the integrity of the Christian communityWhy believers should live in anticipation of Christ's return, allowing hope to shape their daily lives and actions

In this lecture, Don Carson examines 2 Thessalonians 2, offering biblical insight into how Christians should anticipate Christ's return. Carson emphasizes the importance of being steadfast in faith. Carson discusses the necessity of understanding prophetic events, and he urges believers to stand firm in the truth as they await the fulfillment of God's promises.He teaches the following:Christ's return is imminent, urging believers to live in constant readinessWhy believers should prepare for a potentially extended period before Christ's returnChristians should acknowledge God's sovereign election and the blessings already received through the gospelWhy believers must remain anchored in truth and God's eternal promisesWhy we must reject teachings that promise immediate wealth and healthBelievers should not succumb to a defeatist mindset that sees the world as beyond redemptionWhy we should avoid making definitive claims about the timing of Christ's returnChristians should allow the anticipation of Christ's return to shape daily life, priorities, and actions

In this lecture, Don Carson explores 2 Thessalonians 1, highlighting the centrality of Christ in the believer's life. Carson unpacks how the Thessalonians' faith and love amid persecution reveal God's righteous judgment and the gospel's transforming power. Carson emphasizes perseverance, the hope of Christ's return, and the vital role of prayer in glorifying Christ and sustaining faith.He teaches the following:God is just, and His justice will be ultimately revealed at Christ's returnJesus Christ's return will bring judgment upon those who do not know GodChrist's return will result in the glorification of believers, reflecting the transformative power of the gospel in their livesHow Paul's prayer reflects the importance of divine empowerment in the Christian lifeThe gospel is exclusive in its claim of Christ as the only way to salvation, but it is inclusive in its reachHow the gospel enables believers to persevere in faith, hope, and love amidst suffering and opposition.The return of Christ is the ultimate hope for believers, bringing justice, relief, and the fulfillment of God's promisesWhy believers are called to live in anticipation of Christ's return

In this lecture, Don Carson emphasizes the role of Christian leaders as servants of Christ and the importance of faithfulness, humility, and integrity in their leadership. Carson urges Christian leaders to avoid pride, remain accountable to God, and uphold the way of the cross in their lives. Carson stresses the importance of discipline and the need for leaders to serve as models of Christ-likeness within the church and community.He teaches the following:The need for Christian leaders to be seen as servants of ChristThe importance of proving faithful to the trust given by ChristThe need for Christian leaders to avoid pride and boastingChristian leadership involves being entrusted with the mysteries of God and serving Christ, not just the churchThe differences between Christian leadership and worldly leadershipThe importance of accountability structures in the churchThe qualifications and responsibilities of Christian leadersWhy Christian leaders must prove faithful to the One who has entrusted them with their fundamental tasks

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses 1 Corinthians 3, highlighting the Apostle Paul's warning against factionalism and emphasizing that Christian leaders are servants of God. The church is portrayed as God's temple, where believers are accountable for how it is treated, and Christian work will be tested by fire. Carson urges believers to value the church's eternal significance, live in unity, and honor the body of Christ with gratitude and reverence.He teaches the following:How 1 Corinthians 3 has been used to teach a unbiblical doctrinesA common evangelical interpretation of the passage divides humanity into natural, carnal, and spiritual menChristian leaders are mere servants whose only allegiance should be to GodThe foundation of the church is Jesus Christ, and leaders must build on this with materials that endureFactionalists ignore the wealth of the Christian heritage, focusing on individual leadersThe church is a functioning body animated by God's SpiritWhy the church is the only significant institution with eternal significanceWhy Christians should live with profound gratitude and love for the church

In this lecture on 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, Don Carson emphasizes that the wisdom of God, revealed through the cross, is accessible only through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit helps believers understand and proclaim the wisdom of the cross, which is foundational to spiritual growth and revival. Carson warns against elitism and stresses the importance of humility and the gospel in true spiritual understanding.He teaches the following:How the wisdom of God contrasts with worldly wisdom and the rulers of this ageThe Holy Spirit searches all things, and only the Spirit of God can understand God's thoughtsWhy the interpretation of Scripture must be grounded in the Spirit's guidanceHow the wisdom of the cross is accessible to all believersThe differences between the natural person and the spiritual personThe cross is the supreme climax of God's self-disclosure to humanityWhy the work of the Spirit is essential in both individual conversions and church revivals

In this lecture, Don Carson highlights the original scandal of the cross in the ancient world and its power to divide humanity between those perishing and those being saved. Paul's message emphasizes that true ministry must center on Christ crucified, not human eloquence or cultural status. Carson warns against modern evangelical distractions and urges a return to the transforming power of the gospel.He teaches the following:The shocking implications of the cross and crucifixion in the first century, and how they are different todayWhy people often want to set their own criteria for what God should be likeGod has already passed judgment on the best that the world has to offer through the crossThe message of the cross is that God's wisdom and power are displayed in the moment of greatest human weaknessWhy being wise, powerful, or well-born cannot be a criterion for being a ChristianA warning against the idolatries of evangelicalism, such as the love of methods and self-promotionHow focusing too much on social and political ramifications can lead to a quiet denial of the gospelThe message of the cross is the only polarity in the human race that is of eternal consequence

In this lecture, Don Carson unpacks the rich symbolism of Revelation 21–22, highlighting the Lamb's victorious role in bringing about the New Heaven and New Earth where God dwells fully with His people. Carson emphasizes that this final consummation, secured by Christ's sacrifice, fulfills God's promises and transforms all creation into a place of eternal life, healing, and glory. Carson ties this vision to the gospel, showing how it secures both judgment and blessing, and calls believers to set their hearts on eternal treasures.He teaches the following:The significance of the throne room in Revelation 4 and the scroll with seven seals in Revelation 5The Lamb's victory establishes judgment and blessing for the entire universeThe progression of covenant language from the Old Testament to the New TestamentThe beatific vision is to see God's face and experience eternal lifeThe importance of the Lamb's sacrifice in the transformation of all thingsHow the New Jerusalem represents the unity of God's people and the presence of GodThe River of Life and the Tree of Life symbolize eternal life and healing for the nationsThe importance of the gospel in securing transformation and the ultimate vision of God's glory

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 keynote address from TGC's inaugural conference in 2007, TGC cofounder Don Carson answers the question "What is the gospel?" He unpacks the gospel as a comprehensive, Christ-centered truth that's theological, biblical, apostolic, historical, personal, universal, eschatological, and proclaimed. It's a truth that ultimately transforms us.Carson defines TGC's foundation as he points to the richness of the gospel as one unified message, drawing from the entirety of Scripture and the apostles' witness.

“ It may not be until the new heavens and the new earth, but we're eventually going to know that God had goodness that was behind the dark clouds of our lives.” So says Mark Vroegop, newly appointed president of The Gospel Coalition (TGC) and author of Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy, during his conversation with Russell Moore. Moore and Vroegop talk about the ways TGC has evolved since its founding through leaders such as Tim Keller and Don Carson. They talk about the nature of belief, how trust in Jesus alters our understanding of who we are, and navigating seasons of doubt. Their conversation covers ministry partnerships, vocational decision making, and the importance of deep friendships.  Moore and Vroegop consider what the Psalms have to say about seasons of doubt and grief, the relationship between character and gifting, and trust in the goodness of God. Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guest include: Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament by Mark Vroegop Waiting Isn't a Waste: The Surprising Comfort of Trusting God in the Uncertainties of Life by Mark Vroegop The Gospel Coalition Made for Friendship: The Relationship That Halves Our Sorrows and Doubles Our Joys by Drew Hunter The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion Special offer for listeners of The Russell Moore Show: Click here for 25% off a subscription to CT magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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

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