Podcasts about truth trust

Secular - A pastor who decided to preach a sermon on self-control and human planning. He spent weeks making the perfect outline, printing it on expensive paper, and setting up a brand-new projector. Right as he stepped up to the pulpit, the power went completely out, his notes blew off the music stand…

What happens when two accomplished physicians decide that modern medicine isn't enough—not because it has failed, but because it has forgotten the whole person?In this powerful conversation, Kellan sits down with Dr. Debs Eastwood and Dr. Carla Rotering to explore a bold vision for the future of healing. Drawing from decades of experience in medicine, science, and human transformation, they reveal why true healing requires collaboration instead of competition, curiosity instead of judgment, and love instead of ego.Together they introduce Sage Health Institute, an ambitious global initiative designed to unite trusted practitioners from diverse healing disciplines under one scientifically rigorous platform. Their mission is simple but profound: empower people with trusted choices and transform healthcare through truth, trust, integrity, and compassion.If you've ever felt lost navigating today's healthcare system, this conversation offers hope that a different future is possible.Key Takeaways:Why traditional medicine often leaves patients feeling unseenThe personal journeys that led both physicians to rethink healthcareTreating the whole person rather than only the diagnosisThe limitations created by siloed healthcare systemsWhy collaboration between healing disciplines mattersThe creation and vision of Sage Health InstituteScientific rigor alongside openness to diverse healing modalitiesBuilding trust in an age of overwhelming health informationEmpowering patients to make informed health decisionsThe role of community in transforming healthcareHealing through compassion, integrity, and loveCreating global access to trusted practitionersHope for people navigating chronic illness and complex health challenges

Jaclyn Shaw joins KC for a raw conversation about reclaiming God on her own terms, merging spirituality with wealth, and why she walked away from a half-million-dollar-a-year partnership when it stopped feeling true. From spiritual smackdowns to power pivots, this episode is about choosing integrity over comfort — even when comfort pays extremely well.About Jaclyn: Jaclyn Shaw teaches God and money in a way that disrupts everything you thought you knew about both. Best-selling author, spiritual mentor, speaker, and the voice of God x Money, Jaclyn is known for turning conviction into currency and truth into movements.Jaclyn will be live at ASR LIVE this October in Vancouver — grab your ticket and come experience her magic in person.

Hey good people! I am so excited to introduce a new segment called "Kikis On The Couch," where I connect with guests about topics related to real life through authentic and genuine conversation. One this episode, you will hear from my friend, podcaster, and social worker Ravon Wattley (AKA) Cajun Rae. She is the voice and creator behind the new hit podcast, Mind Gumbo where she shares unfiltered truth, thoughts and conversations on topics from life and relationships to trauma and motherhood with humor, perspective and a Louisiana twist! You can find her incredible body of work here. So grab a beverage, get comfy and join us on the couch!Alternative link to the Mind Gumbo podcast:  https://open.spotify.com/show/3koWO39eQuGHxPGxCYP6xJSupport the show

Calvinism prompts us to desire rich, personal communion with our triune God. Today, Ian Hamilton considers how John Owen encouraged Christians to make communion with God a lifelong priority. Get Ian Hamilton's video teaching series Calvinism and the Christian Life with your donation. You'll receive the DVD, digital access to all 6 messages, and the digital study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/   Live outside the U.S. and Canada? Receive the digital teaching series and study guide with your donation: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today's Teacher:   Ian Hamilton is president of Westminster Presbyterian Theological Seminary UK, president of The Paton Society, trustee of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Greenville, SC, and of the Banner of Truth Trust. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Donald John MacLean, President of Westminster Seminary UK and trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, for a rich conversation on James Walker's The Theology and Theologians of Scotland. Their discussion begins with an update on Westminster Seminary UK's move to Oxford and the remarkable ministry of the Reformed Colloquium in Budapest, where confessional Reformed believers from across Europe gather for fellowship, encouragement, and theological exchange. The heart of the episode focuses on Banner of Truth's newly expanded edition of Walker's classic work. MacLean explains why the book has served for decades as an indispensable guide to the Scottish theological tradition, opening up figures beyond the better-known names and tracing major themes in church history, ecclesiology, providence, the atonement, and church-state relations. Together, Camden and Donald John reflect on the historical setting of Scottish theology, the value of Walker's new footnotes and translations, and the abiding importance of visible church unity and Christ's headship over his church. Watch on YouTube Chapters 0:00 Introduction and episode overview 0:32 Donald John MacLean and the new Banner edition 2:25 Westminster Seminary UK and the Reformed Colloquium 10:17 Westminster Seminary UK's move to Oxford 16:07 James Walker and The Theology and Theologians of Scotland 19:01 The Cunningham Lectures and Walker's publication history 22:29 Why the new edition adds notes, biography, and sermons 26:20 Why Scottish theology still matters 27:42 Struggle, exile, and the international character of Scottish theology 29:29 Patristic influence and later shifts in Scottish scholarship 33:31 Providence, concurrence, and difficult doctrinal questions 37:26 The atonement, divine justice, and theological diversity in Scotland 40:06 The Marrow Controversy and covenant theology 43:54 Visible church unity and Scottish ecclesiology 51:14 Christ's headship, Erastianism, and church-state relations 55:16 Further reading in Scottish theology 57:40 Closing remarks Resources Mentioned The Theology and Theologians of Scotland, James Walker (Banner of Truth) Westminster Seminary UK The Whole Christ, Sinclair B. Ferguson Scottish Theology, John Macleod A Scottish Christian Heritage, Ian Murray The Fifty Years' Struggle of the Scottish Covenanters, James Dodds Participants: Camden Bucey, Donald John MacLean

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Donald John MacLean, President of Westminster Seminary UK and trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, for a rich conversation on James Walker's The Theology and Theologians of Scotland. Their discussion begins with an update on Westminster Seminary UK's move to Oxford and the remarkable ministry of the Reformed Colloquium in Budapest, where confessional Reformed believers from across Europe gather for fellowship, encouragement, and theological exchange. The heart of the episode focuses on Banner of Truth's newly expanded edition of Walker's classic work. MacLean explains why the book has served for decades as an indispensable guide to the Scottish theological tradition, opening up figures beyond the better-known names and tracing major themes in church history, ecclesiology, providence, the atonement, and church-state relations. Together, Camden and Donald John reflect on the historical setting of Scottish theology, the value of Walker's new footnotes and translations, and the abiding importance of visible church unity and Christ's headship over his church. Watch on YouTube Chapters 0:00 Introduction and episode overview 0:32 Donald John MacLean and the new Banner edition 2:25 Westminster Seminary UK and the Reformed Colloquium 10:17 Westminster Seminary UK's move to Oxford 16:07 James Walker and The Theology and Theologians of Scotland 19:01 The Cunningham Lectures and Walker's publication history 22:29 Why the new edition adds notes, biography, and sermons 26:20 Why Scottish theology still matters 27:42 Struggle, exile, and the international character of Scottish theology 29:29 Patristic influence and later shifts in Scottish scholarship 33:31 Providence, concurrence, and difficult doctrinal questions 37:26 The atonement, divine justice, and theological diversity in Scotland 40:06 The Marrow Controversy and covenant theology 43:54 Visible church unity and Scottish ecclesiology 51:14 Christ's headship, Erastianism, and church-state relations 55:16 Further reading in Scottish theology 57:40 Closing remarks Resources Mentioned The Theology and Theologians of Scotland, James Walker (Banner of Truth) Westminster Seminary UK The Whole Christ, Sinclair B. Ferguson Scottish Theology, John Macleod A Scottish Christian Heritage, Ian Murray The Fifty Years' Struggle of the Scottish Covenanters, James Dodds Participants: Camden Bucey, Donald John MacLean

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Donald John MacLean, President of Westminster Seminary UK and trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, for a rich conversation on […]

How are everyday Australians experiencing misinformation in their daily lives, and why does it feel increasingly overwhelming? How are platforms and algorithms shaping what we see? What impact is this having on trust in institutions, political decision-making and social cohesion? What does a healthy democratic information space look like? In this episode, Tanya Notley and Ika Trijsburg join Sally Bulkeley in conversation to explore the convergence of misinformation, media literacy and democratic resilience. Dr Tanya Notley is Professor in the School of Arts and Institute for Culture and Society at Western Sydney University, and a leading expert in digital inclusion and media literacy. She is a founding member of the Australian Media Literacy Alliance.Ika Trijsburg is Director of Urban Analytics at the ANU Institute for Infrastructure and Society and Head of Democracy and Diplomacy at the Municipal Association of Victoria. She leads the Disinformation in the City project across five Australian universities.Sally Bulkeley is the former Deputy Head of the ANU National Security College. TRANSCRIPTShow notes:· ANU National Security College academic programs – find out more· NSC Community Consultations Report· Disinformation in the City Response Playbook (2024)· Australian Media Literacy Alliance – media literacy resources We'd love to hear from you! Send in your questions, comments, and suggestions to NatSecPod@anu.edu.au. You can tweet us @NSC_ANU and be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on future episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of 2Days Denarius for Resurrection Day focuses on the cross our Savior died upon and the salvation it brought to those who believe. This encouraging podcast comes from a devotional listeners should be familiar with from other episodes of the past. Two impactful devotional readings, "The Precious Blood" and "Love Lusters At Calvary" give a close glimpse of the cross, Jesus' suffering, our sin and its impact, and Christ's resurrection, which brought the way to God and salvation for us. Listeners will experience their feelings of sadness for His suffering, yet also, great gratitude for their salvation that came from Christ's victorious resurrection. These readings with commentary come from the well-renowned devotional titled, "The Valley of Vision," which is edited by Arthur Bennett. This is one of the very best devotionals available to Christians. It was published in 1975 by Banner of Truth Trust and may be purchased at banneroftruth.org. This ministry encourages all of its listeners to acquire a copy of this excellent work for their own devotional and meditation times. It also serves as a great gift to others as well.Theme song “Holy Is the Lord” is used by permission of songwriter/performing artist Pastor Steve Hereford of the Changed By Grace Church in Jacksonville, FL. His inspirational Scripture songs may be found on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and many other web streaming services. Search “Steve Hereford.”Your comments are welcome! Send a text my way!2Days Denarius is a Bible believing teaching ministry devoted to the inerrancy, infallibility, and authority of Scripture as our only rule of faith and practice. It also holds to the doctrinal tenets of the London Baptist confession of 1689. This ministry may be reached at 2daysdenarius@gmail.comRon Thomas (MDiv, RBC) is an ordained minister with 25-plus years of ministry experience, 22 serving as an active duty chaplain in our armed services.Material used in this podcast are provided under the educational and commentary provisions of Section 207 of the Fair Use Act of 1976.

This week, Dr. John Snyder continues exploring classic Christian letters by focusing on one of the greatest Puritan letter writers, Samuel Rutherford. If you're new to Media Gratiae, don't worry—we welcome you! Samuel Rutherford was a Scottish Puritan pastor who endured intense persecution, the loss of several children, and the deaths of two wives. His letters on faith, holiness, and the beauty of Christ have been praised by contemporaries and modern readers alike, often called second only to Scripture. In this episode, we begin with a brief biographical sketch by Andrew Bonar, who highlights six types of readers who will find Rutherford's letters especially helpful. If you see yourself in any of these categories, consider getting a copy of Rutherford's letters from The Banner of Truth Trust (link below). Show Notes Letters of Samuel Rutherford: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/letters/letters-of-samuel-rutherford/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app

Today, Janice is joined by Alan Murray, President of the WSJ Leadership Institute. Alan reflects on the early beginnings of his leadership and entrepreneurial mindset, which he began developing at just nine years old. He and Janice also discuss his book, Tomorrow's Capitalist: My Search for the Soul of Business, and its perspective on how today's CEOs can lead with purpose while shaping the future of business.Tags: ceo, cgo, entrepreneur, janice, ellig, alan, murray, president, wsj, leadership, impact, business, purpose, future

In the final episode of this six-part series, Rabbi Josh Feigelson reflects on truth, trust, and responsibility in today's overwhelming news landscape. Exploring the danger of “spiritual bypass,” he draws on the Jewish concept of emet (truth) to show how mindfulness can ground us — not to escape the world, but to engage it with clarity and care. Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. --------------- This podcast is brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media Brand.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Jeremiah Burroughs' work, The Rare Jewel of Christian Contentment, was first published in 1648. Since Jeremiah Burroughs passed away in 1646, the book was published posthumously. It has since become a classic of Puritan literature and has been reissued numerous times, including a well-known edition by the Banner of Truth Trust in 1964.

In this standalone short episode, we provide some details of an exciting opportunity at the Banner of Truth Trust. With our General Manager nearing retirement, the trustees are prayerfully seeking a Chief Operations Officer to guide the work into the future. Could that be you, or someone you know? Will you pray for the right person to be appointed?  Read more about the role: https://banneroftruth.org/uk/resources/announcements/2025/retirement-recruitment-and-a-unique-opportunity-to-serve/    To apply:  Please email your CV and a covering letter describing your suitability for the post and your interest in the ministry of the Banner of Truth Trust to: jobs@banneroftruth.co.uk. The closing date for applications is Friday 16 January 2026. It is expected that interviews will be held in Edinburgh in the week of 26 January 2026. Please note: only those with the right to live and work in the UK should apply for this role. 

By God's grace we have been giving a New Year to accelerate our spiritual growth in 2026. There is no way better to start 2026 than with a prayer of devotion and dedication to God as we plan, not just our personal hopes for growth, but our own advancement in the Christian faith as well. This episode of 2Days Denarius presents a New Year's dedication prayer from a book titled, "The Valley of Vision." It is a prayer that we can meditate upon as we seek God's wisdom and guidance for the new blessings and challenges that may come our way. There is also a focus on how to deal with our commitment to resolutions that provides encouragement for listeners to persevere should they plan them. Be blessed! And start the year right with a moment dedication prayer and thankfulness to the Lord!Prayer, "New Year" is found in editor Arthur Bennett's excellent Puritan devotional book, "The Valley of Vision." It was first published by Banner of Truth Trust in 1975. It comes highly recommended by 2Days Denarius Ministry and may be purchased online at banneroftruth.org. Theme song “Holy Is the Lord” is used by permission of songwriter/ performing artist Pastor Steve Hereford of the Changed By Grace Church in Jacksonville, FL. His inspirational Scripture songs may be found on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and many other web streaming services. Search “Steve Hereford.”Your comments are welcome! Send a text my way!2Days Denarius is a Bible believing teaching ministry devoted to the inerrancy, infallibility, and authority of Scripture as our only rule of faith and practice. It also holds to the doctrinal tenets of the London Baptist confession of 1689. This ministry may be reached at 2daysdenarius@gmail.com Ron Thomas (MDiv, RBC) is an ordained minister with 25-plus years of ministry experience, 22 serving as an active duty chaplain in our armed services. Material used in this podcast are provided under the educational and commentary provisions of Section 207 of the Fair Use Act of 1976.

A hundred years ago, the great New Testament scholar J. Gresham Machen sounded the alarm about educational freedom in America. He believed that the state had begun to encroach in a most grievous way upon the sphere of the family, assuming duties it had no warrant to perform.  Machen's words of caution are most timely for us. We live in an epoch in which, informed by UN policy goals, western governments are showing fresh determination to become arbiters and guarantors of the education of each and every child. This week we look in detail at what is happening in the UK, and consider what a faithful Christian response to these pressures might look like.    Featured resources:  – Excerpt from J. Gresham Machen, 'Shall We Have a Federal Department of Education?' – Excerpt from Ned B. Stonehouse, J. Gresham Machen: A Biographical Memoir (1954, repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1987, 2020), p. 468.  – Joshua Kellard, 'When the State Presumes to Educate', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issues 743–4 (August–September 2025).    Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast  

Seg 1 – The Aphorism AgendaSeg 2 – The Three Stories That Shaped the YearSeg 3 – Retrospective Rebates from the Big Beautiful BillSeg 4 – So Long to the Trade Deficit

What does cuckolding really mean—beyond the porn clichés, the insults, and the misconceptions? In this intimate and unfiltered conversation, Mr. and Mrs. Sno sit down with Hubbs and Hopeful, two hosts from the Cuck My Life Podcast, to unpack the real psychology behind cuckolding, compersion, dominance, submission, emotional vulnerability, and why so many couples misunderstand this dynamic. Together, they explore: The difference between humiliation kink and healthy cuckolding Why compersion—not degradation—is at the heart of most cuck dynamics How communication and emotional safety determine whether this lifestyle strengthens or destroys a relationship What bulls and single men get wrong (and what the good ones consistently do right) Why cock cages, denial, and power exchange can deepen intimacy rather than replace it   Plus, Mr. Sno opens up about his own evolving identity, Mrs. Sno shares how stepping into her vixen energy transformed their relationship, and the Cuck My Life hosts reveal the emotional courage required to live authentically within this kink. This episode is raw, psychological, funny, deeply honest—and a must-listen for anyone exploring hotwife play, cuckolding, stag/vixen dynamics, or the emotional side of non-monogamy. If you've ever wondered what cuckolding actually looks like behind closed doors… this conversation pulls back the curtain.   00:00 – Welcome & Today's Topic Mr. and Mrs. Sno introduce the episode and set the stage for a deep dive into modern cuckolding.   01:30 – Meet Hopeful & Hubbs (Cuck My Life Podcast) The guests share their mission to normalize cuckolding and elevate the conversation beyond stereotypes.   03:40 – "I've Always Been a Cuck" — Identity, Labels & Self-Discovery Hubbs describes recognizing his identity later in life and how ED unexpectedly transformed his marriage.   06:50 – What IS Cuckolding? Compersion vs. Humiliation The group explores definitions, misconceptions, and the psychological core of cuck dynamics.   14:20 – Dominance, Submission & Everyday Relationship Roles Hopeful explains how his DS marriage works 24/7—and how it differs from porn stereotypes.   19:50 – "I Don't Want to Be Humiliated" — Mr. Sno's Turning Point A candid discussion about why not all cucks want degradation, and why that distinction matters.   24:10 – Hotwife, Stag, Vixen, Cuck: Do Labels Even Matter? A myth-busting segment on lifestyle terminology and how couples can use labels without limiting themselves.   31:00 – Emotional Risk, Insecurity & the 'Bigger Penis Problem' The panel breaks down what actually happens emotionally after that first experience.   36:55 – How to Talk to Your Partner If You're Curious About Cuckolding A powerful segment on vulnerability, honesty, and how to have the scariest—and most important—conversation.   44:25 – How to Find (and Vet) Bulls & Single Men Ethics, red flags, emotional intelligence, and why most men are not prepared for this dynamic.   52:10 – What Good Bulls Understand (And Why Most Don't) The nuanced expectations of a third: respect, communication, and serving both partners.   58:20 – Mrs. Sno's Vixen Energy & Solo Play Revelation An intimate look at how confidence, agency, and compersion deepen connection.   1:04:30 – Cock Cages, Denial & the Psychology of Being Locked Why cages intensify attention, arousal, and emotional closeness—plus practical fit tips.   1:12:40 – Final Thoughts on Love, Trust & Returning Home Why cuckolding strengthens secure relationships and why emotional connection—not sex—is the foundation.   1:15:00 – Where to Find Cuck My Life Links, socials, and closing gratitude.   PLEASE share your feedback and stories with us! Email Us: SnoMilf@yahoo.com Twitter (X): @SchedulingSin Join us on Discord: https://discord.gg/F4Wk558TaT https://schedulingsin.com IMPORTANT - Please read and respect our chat server rules before joining our Discord Chat Server. This service is completely free, there are many rooms to enjoy with fellow members of the swinging community. You MUST BE OVER 18 YEARS OLD TO JOIN THIS DISCORD SERVER. Our Discord chat is for social chat. it is not a pick up site or dating site.  

There are many pitfalls in preaching. One area which many preachers struggle with is application. And yet, in a sense, application is the whole of preaching. David Vaughn's letter to a fellow Christian leader in the December 2025 issue of the magazine addresses this very subject.    Featured resources: – David Vaughn, 'What can we learn from John Knox?', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 514 (March 2006). Excerpted from A Scottish Christian Heritage.      Resources Mentioned by David Vaughn:  D. A. Carson and J. D. Woodbridge, Letters Along the Way (Wheaton: Crossway, 1993), p. 99-100. Available free as a pdf.  A. T. Pierson, The Divine Art of Preaching, (New York: The Baker and Taylor Company, 1892), pp. 24-27.  Jay Adams, Review of John Stott's Between Two Worlds in The Journal of Pastoral Practice, Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (Vol. VIII, No. 2, 1986), p. 62.  The Works of Jonathan Edwards, (repr. Edinburgh: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1987), vol. 1, p. cxc.  Ron Taylor anecdote from an article in The Journal of Pastoral Practice, Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (Vol. 4, No. 4, 1980), p. 109.  John Broadus, A Treatise on the Preparation and Delivery of Sermons (New York: A. C. Armstrong and Son, 1896), p. 230.      Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Hi. Thanks for pulling up a chair around Greatheart's Table, a community of pastors and others considering life in general, and life in the church particularly. This episode, a reset of one first aired four years ago, applies widely to men and women in all stages and walks of life: get out, detach, and let your mind roam freely. It's hard, I know. But fruitful. Greatheart's Table is supported by patrons – those who choose to support what we do here. If you want to join that cadre of sustainers, you can do so at Patreon dot come. But the greatest way you can support this work is to follow us on your streaming platform, and urge others to do the same. We are glad to have you here around Greatheart's Table. We encourage you to also subscribe to our newsletter where, on third Mondays and at other times there may be additional content. You can do so here. You can help support this podcast by supporting us on Patreon. You can do so here. EPISODE NOTES Notes and resources relevant to this episode: Letters of Samuel Rutherford (United States: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1984), p. ii. Psychologist Alter is Professor of Marketing at New York University's Stern School of Business and the author of the book Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked.  Podcast music provided by Cool Hand Luke and used with permission.Intro: “Holy Vanguard” / LyricsOutro: “Wonder Tour” / Lyrics / Video To find our more about Greatheart's Table, visit us here.

Craig Troxel talks about how ruling elders can help men consider a call to pastoral ministry.A call to pastoral ministry has several parts, one is the internal sense of call, another is the recognition of the church, the actual call to a congregation or mission work. Ruling elders help shepherd men in both and in this podcast we discuss the early stages of recognizing a call, or even encouraging men to consider if they are called.Discussion centers around Charles Bridges, The Christian Ministry: With an Inquiry into the Causes of its Inefficiency, (Banner of Truth Trust). See especially Chapter VI, The Qualifications of the Christian Ministry, pp. 24-31.Craig quotes John Newton, "Beware, my friend, of mistaking the ready exercise of gifts for the exercise of grace." (Letter #5 - "On the Snares and Difficulties attending the Ministry of the Gospel") Works of John Newton, vol.1 (Banner of Truth Trust, 2015) p. 108. See also Newton's letter Marks of a Call to the Ministry.We highly recommend Craig's own book,A. Craig Troxel, With All Your Heart: Orienting Your Mind, Desires, and Will toward Christ, (Crossway, 2020).Craig's Recommended ReadingJohn Calvin, Institutes Of The Christian Religion, translated from the first French edition of 1541 by Robert White, Banner of Truth Trust. (Especially Chapter 17, The Christian Life)Campegius Vitringa, The Spiritual Life, trans. and ed. by Charles K. Tefler, Reformation Heritage Books. John Flavel, The Fountain of Life: A Display of Christ in His Essential and Mediatorial Glory, Vol. 1 of the Works of John Flavel, Banner of Truth Trust.John Flavel, The Method of Grace In the Gospel Redemption, Vol 2 of the Works of John Flavel, Banner of Truth Trust.

In this Legacy Conversation, Jill sits down with longtime friend and fellow educator Chad McNatt, now the Head of Seattle Christian School. From serving together as principals in Rwanda to leading schools and ministries today, their conversation explores what it means to lead to and with the next generation while preparing them to lead in the future. Together they talk about: -The three threads the next generation needs most — Truth, Trust, and Identity -What today's students need from leaders and mentors -How to equip and empower young people to lead now -The kind of leaders the next generation is becoming -How parents, teachers, and ministry leaders can guide them for this moment and this mission Chad also references two books that have shaped his thinking about engaging culture and forming resilient faith: So the Next Generation Will Know by Sean McDowell and J. Warner Wallace A Practical Guide to Culture by John Stonestreet and Brett Kunkle This is a practical and hope-filled conversation for anyone investing in the next generation — from parents and pastors to teachers and mentors — offering wisdom for how to help students build lives anchored in truth, shaped by trust, and secure in their identity in Christ. Seattle Christian School The advent guide referenced in the intro will be included in next week's podcast show notes. Reach out to us at nextgennow@thehills.org and find more information about The Hills Church at www.thehills.org.

How do you build long-term trust between founders and investors—and what happens when that trust meets the chaos of AI-driven commerce? In this episode, Peter Harris and Jon Bradshaw sit down with Kimberly Shenk, founder & CEO of Novi, and Brian Rothenberg, partner at DeFi VC, to explore:How past working relationships shape investor–founder dynamicsThe art of saying “no” without burning bridgesWhy small brands can outrank giants in AI-powered shoppingThe death (and rebirth) of SEO in the LLM eraReal frameworks for finding product-market fit “Machines care more about truth; humans are easily persuaded.” A high-signal, no-fluff conversation on the future of trust, data, and growth in the age of AI.Follow the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/venturecapitalfm/Twitter: https://twitter.com/vcpodcastfmLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/venturecapitalfm/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7BQimY8NJ6cr617lqtRr7N?si=ftylo2qHQiCgmT9dfloD_g&nd=1&dlsi=7b868f1b72094351Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/venture-capital/id1575351789Website: https://www.venturecapital.fm/Follow Jon BradshawLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrbradshaw/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjonbradshaw/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mrjonbradshawFollow Peter HarrisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterharris1Twitter: https://twitter.com/thevcstudentInstagram: https://instagram.com/shodanpeteYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@peterharris2812

There have always been calls for the church to de-emphasise doctrine. Sometimes these calls come from those who wish to promote 'unity' at any cost—enter the ecumenical movement. Sometimes they come from those who feel that the truths of the faith are encumbrances or 'stumbling blocks' to those who just want a simple faith.  This week's episode shows why such calls are so misguided. There can be no true Christian ministry without a setting forth of what B. B. Warfield called 'the great Christian verities'. The great need of the church, in every age, is to treasure, set forth, and 'to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints'. (Jude 3).     Featured resources: – Michael Haykin, 'A Lesson from a Victorian Preface', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 457 (October 2001).  – B. B. Warfield, 'The Indispensableness of Systematic Theology to the Preacher', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 613 (October 2014). This first appeared in Homiletic Review (Feb. 1897) and is featured in Princeton and the Work of the Christian Ministry, vol. 2, pp. 497–504 (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2012).    Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Join Dr. Heather Penny and Neptune's President, Jennifer Draughon, as they unpack what it means to lead from the inside out. They dive into overcoming false beliefs, building trust, and finding the courage for tough conversations. If you've faced self-doubt, conflict, or burnout in leadership, this episode will equip you with practical insights to lead with authenticity, responsibility, and resilience. It's not about perfection—it's about responsibility. They discuss how leaders can create environments where truth, trust, and transparency move beyond words on a wall and become lived experiences for every team member.Step into The Life You're Made For, I'm cheering you on!heatherpenny.com@heatherpennyphdMusic & Production by Jason Squires

This week on the podcast we focus on the contents and impact of one particular Banner book: Iain H. Murray's The Forgotten Spurgeon. First published in the Banner of Truth Magazine, and then in paperback in 1966, it has proved valuable in teaching many about the central importance of the doctrines of grace, and underscoring the need for a theologically rich gospel witness.    Featured Resources:  – Ian S. Barter, 'The Forgotten Spurgeon', You Must Read: Books That Have Shaped Our Lives (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2015, 2025), pp. 251–256.  – Iain H. Murray, The Forgotten Spurgeon (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1966, 2023), pp.     Of note:  Spurgeon's Catechism: https://www.princeofpreachers.org/uploads/4/8/6/5/48652749/apuritancatechism.pdf  Iain H. Murray, Spurgeon vs. Hyper-Calvinism: The Battle for Gospel Preaching: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/spurgeon-vs-hyper-calvinism/   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

What are the characteristics of effective prayers and praying? Well, one of them is praying biblically in accordance with the will of God from Scripture. Few were equal or better than this than the Puritans. One of the greatest devotionals I've ever read and meditated upon is titled, "The Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions," edited by Arthur Bennett. It is an inspirational collection of prayers/devotionals that will certainly engage the reader's heart and mind to learn prayer and follow Christ more closely. This prayer on this episode of 2Days Denarius is titled, "Morning Dedication." The author of the prayer is not given, as none are in the book. But prayers from names such as, Richard Baxter, David Brainerd, Thomas Watson, Isaac Watts, Charles Spurgeon, among others are the ones who are the contributors to this collection. It's encouraged to those who listen to acquire a copy of "Valley of Vision" and discover the devotional value of this book!"Valley of Vision: A Collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions," Arthur Benntt, ed. Banner of Truth Trust, Carlisle, PA: 1975."Valley of Vision" may be purchased on the Banner of Truth Trust website at: banneroftruth.orgSong "Holy Is the Lord" is used by permission of author/performing artist, Pastor Steve Hereford, of the Changed By Grace Church in Jacksonville, FL. His inspirational Scripture songs may be found on Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music, and many other well-known streaming services. Search "Steve Hereford."Your comments are welcome! Send a text my way!2Days Denarius is a Bible believing teaching ministry devoted to the inerrancy, infallibility, and authority of Scripture as our only rule of faith and practice. It also holds to the doctrinal tenets of the London Baptist confession of 1689. This ministry may be reached at 2daysdenarius@gmail.com Material used in this podcast are provided under the educational and commentary provisions of Section 207 of the Fair Use Act of 1976.

Rev. Andy Wilson and Rev. Russell Hamilton talk about Assurance and how The Marrow of Modern Divinity is helpful in untangling this perennial pastoral issue. They clarify of what, exactly, are we assured, what is the relationship between faith and assurance, and how are ruling elders to help people in the search for assurance?As Donald MacLeod says, "A believer can doubt his faith without doubting the Saviour.”  (From the Marrow Men to the Moderates, Scottish Theology 1700-1800, p.99)For more on the Marrow of Modern Divinity listen to the earlier podcast, Christ Freely Offered, (Season 2, Episode 12), Available here.Recommended ReadingDane Ortlund, Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers (Crossway 2020)Richard Sibbes, The Bruised Reed, (Banner of Truth Trust; 2nd ed. edition, 2021)Harrison Perkins, Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction (Lexham Academic, 2024)Jonathan Landry Cruse, The Christian's True Identity: What It Means to Be in Christ (Reformation Heritage Books, 2022)Sinclair Ferguson, The Christian Life: A Doctrinal Introduction (Banner of Truth Trust,  2013)

In this episode of The Association Insights Podcast, host Colleen Gallagher sits down with Leonard Steinhorn, Professor of Communication and Affiliate Professor of History at American University, for a dynamic, deeply relevant conversation on how associations can lead with clarity, ethics, and impact in today's fragmented media environment.A former broadcast commentator, prolific writer, and award-winning educator, Professor Steinhorn offers timeless principles and timely advice on what's changed in media—and what never should.

John Murray was one of the outstanding Reformed theologians of the 1900s. Earnest and serious, he was also deeply affectionate and much beloved of his students and colleagues. On the 50th anniversary of his death in 1975 we take time to consider his life, theology, and legacy to us today.   Featured Resources: – Excerpt from Iain Murray, 'John Murray: A Memorial with Tributes' in Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 143–4 (August/September 1975), Chapter 4, 'Glimpses of Work in the War Years', p. 45–49. N.B. Iain Murray's Life of John Murray (v. i.) represents an enlargement of this memorial with additional information.  – Tribute to Professor Murray by Geoffrey Thomas, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 143–4 (August/September 1975), p. 75–80. – Murray, John, 'The Death of Christ' in The Collected Writings of John Murray: Volume 1, The Claims of Truth (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1976, 2024), p. 36–40.   Note: Professor Murray's response to Geoff Thomas' question about whether the New Testament teaches that every Christian should witness for his Saviour: 'Later in the week he came to me after a lecture and gave me a piece of paper with these textual references written upon it: Acts 8:4; 18:26; 1 Cor. 1:5, 17; 1 Cor. 2:1–5; 1 Cor. 4:15; 1 Cor. 11:4, 5; 2 Cor. 3:8–12; compared with 1 Cor. 4:13; 2 Cor. 5:12, 18, 19; 2 Cor. 8:7; Eph. 4:15, 29; Eph. 5:11; Eph. 6:17; Phil. 1:14–18; 1 Thess. 1:8; Titus 2:3, 4; 1 Peter 3:15.'     Cover art: juxtaposition of a view of Loch Migdale, looking east towards Badbea (pron. 'Bad-bay'), and a picture of Professor Murray taken at a Banner of Truth ministers' conference in Leicester, c. 1965.   Further Reading: Murray, Iain H., The Life of John Murray (Paperback, 240 pages) Murray, John, Collected Writings of John Murray (4-volume clothbound set, 1224 pages) — Volume 1: The Claims of Truth (Clothbound, 388 pages) — Volume 2: Systematic Theology (Clothbound, 428 pages) — Volume 3: Life, Sermons, Reviews (Clothbound, 404 pages) — Volume 4: Studies in Theology (Clothbound, 400 pages) Murray, John, The Free Offer of the Gospel (Booklet, 32 pages) Murray, John, Redemption Accomplished and Applied (Paperback, 200 pages)   Digging Deeper: Listen to Dr. Donald John Maclean's lecture on The Theological Method of John Murray (at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary).   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Robert Murray M'Cheyne died at the age of 29. Yet his life continues to inspire the servants of Christ today, and his passion for holiness, and sincere godliness, stand as a testament to the grace of God made effective in an otherwise weak man.  This week we look at M'Cheyne from three angles, taking in the shape of his life, the character of his labours, and finally the special love he had for the Jewish people.   Featured Resources: – David Campbell, 'Robert Murray M'Cheyne: The Beauty of Holiness', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 700 (January 2022). – Keith Walker, 'Robert Murray M'Cheyne: Saint and Preacher (2)', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 247 (April 1984). – Excerpt from Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (1844; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2024), 'To Rev. R. Macdonald of Blairgowrie', from page 268.   Further Reading: Andrew Bonar, Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne (1844; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2024). Clothbound, 664 pages. Andrew Bonar, Robert Murray M'Cheyne (paperback edition of Bonar's Memoir as it appears in Memoir and Remains of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Paperback, 192 pages. Sermons of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Paperback, 196 pages. Old Testament Sermons of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Clothbound, 183 pages. New Testament Sermons of Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Clothbound, 321 pages. Sermons on Hebrews, Robert Murray M'Cheyne. Clothbound, 198 pages.    Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Christian believers will be tempted to sin. How are we to understand what goes on in temptation? Where is God when we are tempted? How do we lay hold of the resources to resist and come through these times of agony? These and other crucial questions are considered in this week's episode.   Featured Resources: – 'Lead Us Not Into Temptation', Sinclair B. Ferguson, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 145 (October 1975). – Excerpt from William Bridge, A Lifting Up for the Downcast (1649; repr. Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2024), Chapter 7, 'A Lifting Up in the Case of Temptation', p. 214–220.    Further Reading: Bridge, William, A Lifting Up for the Downcast Gurnall, William, The Christian in Complete Armour (single volume or abridged in three paperback volumes) Owen, John, Temptation Resisted and Repulsed (abridged and made easy to read by Richard Rushing) Owen, John, The Mortification of Sin (abridged and made easy to read by Richard Rushing) Owen, John, Works, Volume 6: Sin and Temptation (includes full text of On the Mortification of Sin in Believers, Of Temptation, Indwelling Sin, and A Practical Exposition of Psalm 130)     Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

We caught up with Geoff Thomas at the recent Banner Ministers' Conference in Staffordshire. Geoff, who ministered at Alfred Place Baptist Church for over fifty years, has been a faithful friend of the Banner of Truth Trust. It was a joy to talk with him about his varied associations with the Banner, his friendship with Iain Murray, preaching through Romans, and pastoral visitation, among other topics.    Geoff Thomas' Sermon Archive Geoff's new book: Letters to my Grandson: On First Reading and Hearing Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones (Day One)   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us your feedback or a testimony: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

Dr. Ian Hamilton is Professor of Historical Theology at Westminster Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Newcastle, England, Adjunct Professor of Applied Theology at GPTS, a long time trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, and a prolific author and speaker. He served as pastor of Loudoun Church of Scotland for twenty years before being called as the minister of Cambridge Presbyterian Church in England where he served for 17 years.  You can find his books here and his sermons here.   Fathers & Brothers is committed to bringing you in-person interviews with seasoned pastors about life and ministry. Special thanks to my alma mater, Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, for helping us serve our audience through their generous support of the show.  If you're interested in studying at Greenville Seminary or contributing to their work, check them out at GPTS.edu.  

The World today is struggling with three fundamental pillars. They are monumental and systemic issues within the culture and the nation today. Everything you live, breathe, and believe rest upon these great pillars. The message from the culture and the media is, “do not believe what your lying eyes are seeing.” The pressing question of the hour is what the Lord has to say about what we are hearing, seeing, and experiencing within the devolution of the nation.

As 2024 draws to a close, we present a brief round-up of some of the most popular episodes of the first 12 months of the Magazine Podcast.   We then read W. J. Grier's account of the last months of John Calvin's life, an appropriate 'bookend' counterbalancing the account of Calvin's early ministry in our episode 'Calvin in France'.   We finish with a stirring meditation for a new year, also by W. J. Grier.     Featured Content: – Excerpt from W. J. Grier, 'The Life of John Calvin', (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2012), featured in the Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 567, December 2010. – 'On Toward the Goal: A Meditation for the New Year by the Late W. J. Grier', Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 244 (January 1984).     About the Contributor: W. J. Grier came to Christ while studying Classics at Queen's University, Belfast, through the witness of a Christian student friend and in a W. P. Nicholson mission meeting. He was a trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, co-chairman of the Leicester Ministers' Conference, a founding member of the British Evangelical Council (now Affinity), and served on committees of the Evangelical Fellowship of Ireland and the Evangelical Library in Belfast. He was a well-known and enormously respected leader throughout the international Reformed constituency. He retired in 1979 after a ministry of almost fifty-two years and went to be with the Lord on 6 August 1983. He was the author of many booklets, articles, tracts, Daily Readings and Calendar Notes, including The Momentous Event and The Life of John Calvin, published by the Trust.   Listen to 'Calvin in France': https://bannermagazine.podbean.com/e/calvin-in-france/ Buy The Life of John Calvin by W. J. Grier: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/the-life-of-john-calvin/   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

We come to the end of Ephesians today. At the beginning of his letter to these dear Christians, Paul prayed that they would come to know the significance of what it meant to be a Christian and what it meant to be the Church: I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the boundless greatness of His power toward us who believe (Eph. 1:1819a). Isnt this what we want for our own selves? To see with the eyes of our hearts the hope we have because of Gods calling, to wrap our hearts around the profound implications of what it means to belong to God as His inheritance, and to have our hearts full with the reality that the boundless greatness of the power of Almighty God now belongs to those of us who have been redeemed by Gods own Son. What does it mean to be a Christian? What does it mean to be the Church? The answer is provided for us more than 200 times in the New Testament and over 30 times in Ephesians alone; the answer given for what it means to be a Christian and what it means to be the Church is that you are a Christian and you belong to His church if you are in Christ. Before He spoke Creation into existence, God chose you and set His love upon you for the purpose that you would be holy and blameless... in Christ (1:4-6). Your sin was not so great to keep you from the love of God, for He made your salvation and redemption possible through His Son who died upon a cross for your sins and lavished His grace upon you (vv. 7-12). You have been sealed by the Holy Spirit which guarantees your complete and total salvation... and He did it in Christ (vv. 13-14). Oh, dear Christian, what did you ever do to deserve so great a salvation? Nothing, because all of it was provided for you in and through Christ! The Christ who was raised from the dead and seated at the right hand of the Father in the heavenly places is now yours (1:20-21)! The Christ who is far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, the One to Whom belongs the obedience of the nations, and He who is head over all things... is now yours (vv. 22-23)! Christian, what did you do to receive Him as yours? You who were once dead in your offenses and sins, was there anything in you that warranted Gods grace? You were listed among the sons of disobedience, you lived in the lusts of your flesh, you indulged the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and because of your sins... you were categorized by the Almighty as a child of wrath (2:1-3). What was it about you that compelled God to save you instead of leaving you in your sins? It was His rich mercy, His great love, and His all-sufficient grace that made you alive in Christ (vv. 4-9). You are now in Christ, and all because of Christ! Now that you have been saved by Christ, you who were once far away have been brought near so that He is now your truth, He is now your righteousness, and He is now your peace (2:11-16). You are now united to Christ and belong to His body (4:1-32). As a member of His body, you now belong to the Bride of Christ, and because you are His Bride, Jesus is cleansing and sanctifying you through His word and the power of the Holy Spirit (5:22-32). So, when you come to Ephesians 6:10 and read: Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might you should know by now where it is that you are able to find that strength. It is found... in Christ. We are strong in the Lord when we put on the full armor of God. Yet, the irony is that it is already provided because of our union in Jesus. He is our belt of truth, He is our breastplate of righteousness, He is our peace through the gospel, He is our shield of faith, He is our helmet of salvation, and He is our sword of the Spirit. We are stronger in the Lord the more we recognize our weakness and how much we need to pursue Him. Listen, the only way you will discover how weak you are is by seeing how big God is, how sufficient Jesus is as your Savior, and how powerful the Holy Spirit is as the One who is keeping you. How We Are to Pray So here is what I want to do with the remainder of our time together. First, I want to look at how we are to pray and then I hope to show you what that kind of praying is where the power of the armor of God is experienced. There are four categories of prayer that ought to be a part of our prayer life as Christians listed in Ephesians 6:18. The Greek word that is used four times in verse 18 that can be translated all or every is the Greek word, pas (ᾶ). Some versions of the Bible have chosen to translate pas as all every time it is used in verse 18, while others like new version of the NASB translate pas as every and all. In an effort to make the translation read smoothly, the NASB translates it this way: With every [pas] prayer and request, pray at all [pas] times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all [pas] perseverance and every request for all [pas] the saints... So how are we to pray? We are to pray in ALL ways to God (v. 18a). What are the ways you can pray? You can pray quietly to God. You can pray vocally to God. You can pray with groups of other Christians to God. You can pray privately to God. You can pray while prostrate on your face to God. You can pray while standing, you can pray while kneeling, and you can pray while walking. You can pray with your eyes closed, you can pray with your eyes open, and you can pray with your head bowed or lifted up. You can pray in all ways to God because of who you are in Christ. We are to pray at ALL times to God (v. 18b). You can pray in the evening to God. You can pray in the morning to God. You can pray midday to God. You can pray while suffering, while hungry, while in good health, or when in ill health. It does not matter what the circumstances are or if it is in the early morning hours or in the midnight hour... there is no time when Gods door is shut, or His time limited so that His redeemed children are not permitted to come before Him in prayer. We are to pray with ALL perseverance (v. 18c). While we pray in all ways and at all times in the Spirit, we are to do so while alert and do so persistently. We stand between the first advent and the second advent when Jesus will come again as King, until He comes again, we are to remain alert for two reasons: first, while we wait, we are in enemy territory where our adversary is categorized as a roaring lion who longs to destroy and devour (1 Pet. 5:8). Jesus told His disciples that while we wait for His return that we must, Watch out, stay alert; for you do not know when the appointed time is (Mark 13:33). Sinclair Ferguson said of prayer: Christ is building his church on territory that has been occupied by an enemy. Alertness is always essential when living in a war zone.[1] We are to pray for ALL the saints (v. 18d). In the same way that we pray for ourselves, we must also pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ! We do not just pray for those who we agree with theologically, but for every Christian regardless of where they fellowship, what church they attend, or in what part of the world they live. This also means praying for your spouse, praying for your children, praying for your grandchildren, and anyone else in your world who believes in Jesus. When it comes to their relationship with God, God cares more about their spiritual health than you ever could, so pray expecting that God can do, far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think... (3:20) in the lives of those saints you pray for more than your imagination can come up with. There is a fifth way we are to pray: We are to pray in all ways and at all times in the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the power that makes the armor of God effective so that you can stand strong, stand against the schemes of the devil, and stand firm on the evil day. The Power of the Armor of God is in Who it Belongs To To Pray in the Spirit according to Ephesians 6:18 is not to pray in tongues, that is a different type of praying addressed elsewhere in the Bible, but not here. When we pray in the Spirit, we pray with the confidence that we have access to God Almighty who spoke billions of stars into existence with just the word of His power; not only does He hear us as our Heavenly Father, but He can, do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think (3:20) because we are in Christ and He is our Heavenly father. It is the kind of confidence we read about in Romans 8:14-16, For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons and daughters of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons and daughters by which we cry out, Abba! Father! The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God... Do you remember what I said about what it meant to be filled with the Holy Spirit when we covered Ephesians 4:30 and 5:18 in this sermon series? I said to be filled with the Spirit is not about you getting more of the Holy Spirit, but about the Holy Spirit getting more of you. The more of you that the Holy Spirit has, the more power of the Holy Spirit you will experience! Same is true when it comes to experiencing the strength of the Lord: the more of our hearts, the more of our obedience, and the more of our dependance He has of us... the more of His strength we will experience through His Holy Spirit. The power of the Armor of God is not in our ability to put it on but in the One who it belongs to! This brings us back full circle from what we read in the first sentence of Ephesians (1:1-14) to Ephesians 6:18-24. Conclusion The baby born on the first Christmas and laid in a manger is Christ the Lord! He who was born of a virgin, is the same One who formed Mary in her own mothers womb. The One who through whom all things were created, was laid in a manger for the purpose of carrying a cross to die for sinners. The One who lived the life we could not, to die a death we deserved is not only our Savior, but our Mediator: For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all... (1 Tim. 2:56). The Christ in the manger is ours not because of anything we have done, but because of His victory on the cross and over the grave: In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us (Eph. 1:7-8a). So, it makes perfect sense that Paul would conclude his letter with a call to all of those who are in Christ to pray in the Spirit in all ways, all the time, with all perseverance, and for all the saints because in Jesus, we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens... (Heb. 9:1). If you are a Christian, then one of the things you learn from Ephesians is that you are in Christ. To be in Christ means that you now share an unbreakable union with Christ because that union was chosen by God the Father, purchased by His Sons own blood, and sealed by His Holy Spirit. Prayer is the fruit of our union in Christ, prayer is communion we have with God, prayer is the direct access we have to God because of our union in Christ. Prayer is the power source to the strength of the Lord that is available to the Christian with the armor of God. Jesus is the belt of truth, which is your identity in Him, but the security you have with Jesus as your truth will only be as firm as your understanding and confidence that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). Jesus is your breastplate of righteousness, but your confidence in Him as your righteousness will only be as firm as your confidence that His righteousness is all the righteousness that you will ever need. Jesus is the shoes of the gospel of peace, but the extent you will be able to stand firm in the gospel will only be as secure as your understanding of the reality of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the shield of faith, but your shield will only be as large as your understanding of who He is based on how saturated your faith in the Word of God is. Jesus is the helmet of salvation, but the hope of your salvation will only be as effective as your joy in just how great your salvation really is. Jesus is the sword of the Spirit in that all the word of God points to Him, but your ability to wield the truth of Gods word will only be as effective as you are willing to use it. Prayer is what happens when you understand how weak you are and how big God really is. Prayer is the evidence that we are growing in our relationship with Christ! Sam Allberry, in his excellent book, One with My Lord, put it this way: Growth in the Christian life is needing God more, not needing him less. So we will be doing more asking over the years, not less asking. We dont grow out of prayer, just further into it.[2] This is why it is only fitting that Paul would conclude his epistle with the appeal to pray at all times! The more we seek God out of a growing awareness of our weakness, the more like Jesus we will become. Again Sam Allberry is spot on: Prayer is not about bending God to our wills but about expressing our own wills as they are being bent to his.[3] Here is the thing though: Our union in Christ is not dependent upon our performance as Christians. Our union in Christ was, is, and forever will be dependent upon the life and faithfulness of Jesus. To the extent that we depend upon Him will determine just how much of our hearts He really has, and to the extent of how much of our minds, our hearts, and our will that He has will determine just how much of His power we will experience in our lives. You will never be less in Him than you already are, but His power will only be experienced in and through your life to the extent of how much of you Jesus really has. So, my question to you dear Christian is simply this: How much of you does Jesus really have? Oh, dear brother... oh, dear sister in Christ, do you not want to see with the eyes of your heart the hope of His calling, the riches of His inheritance, and know the power of the Holy Spirit (1:18-19a)? Do you not want to know the joy of a life built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ as your chief cornerstone (2:20)? Do you not long for the kind of life that comes out of comprehending the width and length and height and depth of what you have in Christ (3:14-19)? Are you not tired of the cheap thrills this world offers when it is through Christ that you can know the kind of satisfaction that comes with walking in a manner worthy of the calling in which you have been called (4:1-3)? If you understood your union in Christ, you would seek to enjoy the unity we are called to with those who belong to His Church (4:4-6). If you understood what it is that you share with Christ, you would desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit instead of looking for ways to grieve Him (4:30; 5:18). Oh, because of the great redemption you now enjoy, do you not hate the things that displease Him (5:1-13)? Do you not want to come out of this life smelling like the sweet aroma of Christ; can you not hear the Holy Spirits call upon your life at this very moment: Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you (5:14)? To be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might (6:10), the ability to stand firm against the devils schemes, and to be able to resist when the evil day comes... will only be experienced more frequently when you see just how weak you are and how sufficient Christ is in all things, in all ways, for all times, and for all people! In so doing, may we be known for our love for Jesus and in the way we live for Him and serve those around us. [1] Sinclair Ferguson, Lets Study Ephesians (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust; 2021), p. 186. [2] Sam Allberry, One With My Lord (Weaton, IL: Crossway; 2024), p. 151 [3] Sam Allberry, One With My Lord (Weaton, IL: Crossway; 2024), p. 152.

We come to the end of Ephesians today. At the beginning of his letter to these dear Christians, Paul prayed that they would come to know the significance of what it meant to be a Christian and what it meant to be the Church: I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened, so that you will know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the boundless greatness of His power toward us who believe (Eph. 1:1819a). Isnt this what we want for our own selves? To see with the eyes of our hearts the hope we have because of Gods calling, to wrap our hearts around the profound implications of what it means to belong to God as His inheritance, and to have our hearts full with the reality that the boundless greatness of the power of Almighty God now belongs to those of us who have been redeemed by Gods own Son. What does it mean to be a Christian? What does it mean to be the Church? The answer is provided for us more than 200 times in the New Testament and over 30 times in Ephesians alone; the answer given for what it means to be a Christian and what it means to be the Church is that you are a Christian and you belong to His church if you are in Christ. Before He spoke Creation into existence, God chose you and set His love upon you for the purpose that you would be holy and blameless... in Christ (1:4-6). Your sin was not so great to keep you from the love of God, for He made your salvation and redemption possible through His Son who died upon a cross for your sins and lavished His grace upon you (vv. 7-12). You have been sealed by the Holy Spirit which guarantees your complete and total salvation... and He did it in Christ (vv. 13-14). Oh, dear Christian, what did you ever do to deserve so great a salvation? Nothing, because all of it was provided for you in and through Christ! The Christ who was raised from the dead and seated at the right hand of the Father in the heavenly places is now yours (1:20-21)! The Christ who is far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, the One to Whom belongs the obedience of the nations, and He who is head over all things... is now yours (vv. 22-23)! Christian, what did you do to receive Him as yours? You who were once dead in your offenses and sins, was there anything in you that warranted Gods grace? You were listed among the sons of disobedience, you lived in the lusts of your flesh, you indulged the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and because of your sins... you were categorized by the Almighty as a child of wrath (2:1-3). What was it about you that compelled God to save you instead of leaving you in your sins? It was His rich mercy, His great love, and His all-sufficient grace that made you alive in Christ (vv. 4-9). You are now in Christ, and all because of Christ! Now that you have been saved by Christ, you who were once far away have been brought near so that He is now your truth, He is now your righteousness, and He is now your peace (2:11-16). You are now united to Christ and belong to His body (4:1-32). As a member of His body, you now belong to the Bride of Christ, and because you are His Bride, Jesus is cleansing and sanctifying you through His word and the power of the Holy Spirit (5:22-32). So, when you come to Ephesians 6:10 and read: Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might you should know by now where it is that you are able to find that strength. It is found... in Christ. We are strong in the Lord when we put on the full armor of God. Yet, the irony is that it is already provided because of our union in Jesus. He is our belt of truth, He is our breastplate of righteousness, He is our peace through the gospel, He is our shield of faith, He is our helmet of salvation, and He is our sword of the Spirit. We are stronger in the Lord the more we recognize our weakness and how much we need to pursue Him. Listen, the only way you will discover how weak you are is by seeing how big God is, how sufficient Jesus is as your Savior, and how powerful the Holy Spirit is as the One who is keeping you. How We Are to Pray So here is what I want to do with the remainder of our time together. First, I want to look at how we are to pray and then I hope to show you what that kind of praying is where the power of the armor of God is experienced. There are four categories of prayer that ought to be a part of our prayer life as Christians listed in Ephesians 6:18. The Greek word that is used four times in verse 18 that can be translated all or every is the Greek word, pas (ᾶ). Some versions of the Bible have chosen to translate pas as all every time it is used in verse 18, while others like new version of the NASB translate pas as every and all. In an effort to make the translation read smoothly, the NASB translates it this way: With every [pas] prayer and request, pray at all [pas] times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all [pas] perseverance and every request for all [pas] the saints... So how are we to pray? We are to pray in ALL ways to God (v. 18a). What are the ways you can pray? You can pray quietly to God. You can pray vocally to God. You can pray with groups of other Christians to God. You can pray privately to God. You can pray while prostrate on your face to God. You can pray while standing, you can pray while kneeling, and you can pray while walking. You can pray with your eyes closed, you can pray with your eyes open, and you can pray with your head bowed or lifted up. You can pray in all ways to God because of who you are in Christ. We are to pray at ALL times to God (v. 18b). You can pray in the evening to God. You can pray in the morning to God. You can pray midday to God. You can pray while suffering, while hungry, while in good health, or when in ill health. It does not matter what the circumstances are or if it is in the early morning hours or in the midnight hour... there is no time when Gods door is shut, or His time limited so that His redeemed children are not permitted to come before Him in prayer. We are to pray with ALL perseverance (v. 18c). While we pray in all ways and at all times in the Spirit, we are to do so while alert and do so persistently. We stand between the first advent and the second advent when Jesus will come again as King, until He comes again, we are to remain alert for two reasons: first, while we wait, we are in enemy territory where our adversary is categorized as a roaring lion who longs to destroy and devour (1 Pet. 5:8). Jesus told His disciples that while we wait for His return that we must, Watch out, stay alert; for you do not know when the appointed time is (Mark 13:33). Sinclair Ferguson said of prayer: Christ is building his church on territory that has been occupied by an enemy. Alertness is always essential when living in a war zone.[1] We are to pray for ALL the saints (v. 18d). In the same way that we pray for ourselves, we must also pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ! We do not just pray for those who we agree with theologically, but for every Christian regardless of where they fellowship, what church they attend, or in what part of the world they live. This also means praying for your spouse, praying for your children, praying for your grandchildren, and anyone else in your world who believes in Jesus. When it comes to their relationship with God, God cares more about their spiritual health than you ever could, so pray expecting that God can do, far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think... (3:20) in the lives of those saints you pray for more than your imagination can come up with. There is a fifth way we are to pray: We are to pray in all ways and at all times in the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the power that makes the armor of God effective so that you can stand strong, stand against the schemes of the devil, and stand firm on the evil day. The Power of the Armor of God is in Who it Belongs To To Pray in the Spirit according to Ephesians 6:18 is not to pray in tongues, that is a different type of praying addressed elsewhere in the Bible, but not here. When we pray in the Spirit, we pray with the confidence that we have access to God Almighty who spoke billions of stars into existence with just the word of His power; not only does He hear us as our Heavenly Father, but He can, do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think (3:20) because we are in Christ and He is our Heavenly father. It is the kind of confidence we read about in Romans 8:14-16, For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons and daughters of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons and daughters by which we cry out, Abba! Father! The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God... Do you remember what I said about what it meant to be filled with the Holy Spirit when we covered Ephesians 4:30 and 5:18 in this sermon series? I said to be filled with the Spirit is not about you getting more of the Holy Spirit, but about the Holy Spirit getting more of you. The more of you that the Holy Spirit has, the more power of the Holy Spirit you will experience! Same is true when it comes to experiencing the strength of the Lord: the more of our hearts, the more of our obedience, and the more of our dependance He has of us... the more of His strength we will experience through His Holy Spirit. The power of the Armor of God is not in our ability to put it on but in the One who it belongs to! This brings us back full circle from what we read in the first sentence of Ephesians (1:1-14) to Ephesians 6:18-24. Conclusion The baby born on the first Christmas and laid in a manger is Christ the Lord! He who was born of a virgin, is the same One who formed Mary in her own mothers womb. The One who through whom all things were created, was laid in a manger for the purpose of carrying a cross to die for sinners. The One who lived the life we could not, to die a death we deserved is not only our Savior, but our Mediator: For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself as a ransom for all... (1 Tim. 2:56). The Christ in the manger is ours not because of anything we have done, but because of His victory on the cross and over the grave: In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our wrongdoings, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us (Eph. 1:7-8a). So, it makes perfect sense that Paul would conclude his letter with a call to all of those who are in Christ to pray in the Spirit in all ways, all the time, with all perseverance, and for all the saints because in Jesus, we have such a high priest, who has taken His seat at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens... (Heb. 9:1). If you are a Christian, then one of the things you learn from Ephesians is that you are in Christ. To be in Christ means that you now share an unbreakable union with Christ because that union was chosen by God the Father, purchased by His Sons own blood, and sealed by His Holy Spirit. Prayer is the fruit of our union in Christ, prayer is communion we have with God, prayer is the direct access we have to God because of our union in Christ. Prayer is the power source to the strength of the Lord that is available to the Christian with the armor of God. Jesus is the belt of truth, which is your identity in Him, but the security you have with Jesus as your truth will only be as firm as your understanding and confidence that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). Jesus is your breastplate of righteousness, but your confidence in Him as your righteousness will only be as firm as your confidence that His righteousness is all the righteousness that you will ever need. Jesus is the shoes of the gospel of peace, but the extent you will be able to stand firm in the gospel will only be as secure as your understanding of the reality of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the shield of faith, but your shield will only be as large as your understanding of who He is based on how saturated your faith in the Word of God is. Jesus is the helmet of salvation, but the hope of your salvation will only be as effective as your joy in just how great your salvation really is. Jesus is the sword of the Spirit in that all the word of God points to Him, but your ability to wield the truth of Gods word will only be as effective as you are willing to use it. Prayer is what happens when you understand how weak you are and how big God really is. Prayer is the evidence that we are growing in our relationship with Christ! Sam Allberry, in his excellent book, One with My Lord, put it this way: Growth in the Christian life is needing God more, not needing him less. So we will be doing more asking over the years, not less asking. We dont grow out of prayer, just further into it.[2] This is why it is only fitting that Paul would conclude his epistle with the appeal to pray at all times! The more we seek God out of a growing awareness of our weakness, the more like Jesus we will become. Again Sam Allberry is spot on: Prayer is not about bending God to our wills but about expressing our own wills as they are being bent to his.[3] Here is the thing though: Our union in Christ is not dependent upon our performance as Christians. Our union in Christ was, is, and forever will be dependent upon the life and faithfulness of Jesus. To the extent that we depend upon Him will determine just how much of our hearts He really has, and to the extent of how much of our minds, our hearts, and our will that He has will determine just how much of His power we will experience in our lives. You will never be less in Him than you already are, but His power will only be experienced in and through your life to the extent of how much of you Jesus really has. So, my question to you dear Christian is simply this: How much of you does Jesus really have? Oh, dear brother... oh, dear sister in Christ, do you not want to see with the eyes of your heart the hope of His calling, the riches of His inheritance, and know the power of the Holy Spirit (1:18-19a)? Do you not want to know the joy of a life built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Christ as your chief cornerstone (2:20)? Do you not long for the kind of life that comes out of comprehending the width and length and height and depth of what you have in Christ (3:14-19)? Are you not tired of the cheap thrills this world offers when it is through Christ that you can know the kind of satisfaction that comes with walking in a manner worthy of the calling in which you have been called (4:1-3)? If you understood your union in Christ, you would seek to enjoy the unity we are called to with those who belong to His Church (4:4-6). If you understood what it is that you share with Christ, you would desire to be filled with the Holy Spirit instead of looking for ways to grieve Him (4:30; 5:18). Oh, because of the great redemption you now enjoy, do you not hate the things that displease Him (5:1-13)? Do you not want to come out of this life smelling like the sweet aroma of Christ; can you not hear the Holy Spirits call upon your life at this very moment: Awake, sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you (5:14)? To be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might (6:10), the ability to stand firm against the devils schemes, and to be able to resist when the evil day comes... will only be experienced more frequently when you see just how weak you are and how sufficient Christ is in all things, in all ways, for all times, and for all people! In so doing, may we be known for our love for Jesus and in the way we live for Him and serve those around us. [1] Sinclair Ferguson, Lets Study Ephesians (Carlisle, PA: The Banner of Truth Trust; 2021), p. 186. [2] Sam Allberry, One With My Lord (Weaton, IL: Crossway; 2024), p. 151 [3] Sam Allberry, One With My Lord (Weaton, IL: Crossway; 2024), p. 152.

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Rev. Andy Wilson and Rev. Russell Hamilton talk about The Marrow of Modern Divinity, an old book that wrestles with the free offer of Jesus Christ to sinners, and questions of law and assurance. This lively old book continues to be relevant to ruling elders in helping people with questions of faith, freedom from the law, legalism, and assurance. Gospel preaching is vital to gospel churches.Further Reading on the Marrow Edward Fisher, The Marrow of Modern Divinity, (Christian Focus, 2016). This edition includes explanatory notes by Thomas Boston, an introduction by Philip Ryken, and an historical introduction by William Vandoodewaard. Andy Wilson, The Marrow of The Marrow of Modern Divinity (Expanded Edition): A Simplified Version of Edward Fisher's 17th Century Classic.Sinclair Ferguson, The Whole Christ: Legalism, Antinomianism, and Gospel Assurance―Why the Marrow Controversy Still Matters. (Crossway, 2016)Donald Macleod, From the Marrow Men to the Moderates, Scottish Theology 1700–1800. (Christian Focus, 2023)William VanDoodewaard, The Marrow Controversy and Seceder Tradition: Atonement, Saving Faith, and the Gospel Offer in Scotland (1718–1799). (Reformation Heritage Books, 2014)David C. Lachman, The Marrow Controversy 1781-1723: An Historical and Theological Analysis (Rutherford Studies in Historical Theology)Andy's three booksHarrison Perkins, Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction (Lexham Academic, 2024)John Murray, Redemption, Accomplished and AppliedRichard Sibbes, Glorious Freedom: An Exposition, Puritan Paperback (Banner of Truth Trust; 2nd ed. edition, 2024)Russell's three booksRichard Sibbes, The Bruised Reed, (Banner of Truth Trust; 2nd ed. edition, 2021)Timothy Keller, Walking with God through Pain and Suffering, (Penguin Books; Reprint edition 2015)Thomas Boston, Human Nature in its Fourfold State, (Banner of Truth; Reprint edition, 1964)

How should the bodies of deceased believers be treated? Are burial and cremation equally valid for Christians? Do the Scriptures speak to the issue at all, or is it merely a matter of preference? These questions are all addressed by this week's featured article, by S. M. Houghton.   S. M. Houghton was chief literary and editorial advisor to the Banner of Truth Trust from 1960 to 1987. His reminiscences are published in 'My Life and Books'. Buy S. M. Houghton, My Life and Books: https://banneroftruth.org/store/history-biography/my-life-and-books/   Donald Howard is the retired minister of St. Peter's Church of England, Sydney, Australia. After experience in agriculture, The Royal Australian Air Force, and journalism, Donald Howard studied Theology at Moore College, Sydney and then served for many years in the pastoral ministry. While at St. Peter's, his first wife, Diana, died of cancer at the age of forty-six in 1977, which occasioned the writing of his booklet Christians Grieve Too.   The Banner also publishes a booklet by Donald Howard, Burial or Cremation: Does it Matter?: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/burial-or-cremation/   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

When is controversy justified? When is it not? How ought it to be conducted? When ought it to be refused? These are questions of particular importance for Christians in an argumentative and distracted age, such as ours. The three selections we read this week go some way towards helping us answer them.   Featured Content: – Excerpt from 'The Benefits and Dangers of Controversy' in Evangelical Holiness and Other Addresses, by Iain H. Murray (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2013), pages 119–130. – Selection from a sermon by Dan Peters given at the 2024 Banner Borders Conference, 'Blessed are the Peacemakers, Part II'. – 'William Cunningham–Humble Controversialist', David Campbell, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 690, March 2021.   About the Contributors: Iain H. Murray is one of the founders of the Banner of Truth Trust. His books published with Banner include Jonathan Edwards: A New Biography (1987), Revival and Revivalism: The Making and Marring of American Evangelicalism 1750–1858 (1994), and Amy Carmichael: Beauty for Ashes (2015). Dan Peters is minister at Newcastle Reformed Evangelical Church and is the author of Distinct Communion: The Believer's Relations with Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Christian Focus Publications, 2024). David Campbell is minister at North Preston Evangelical Church, a trustee of the Banner of Truth Trust, and author of Sanctification: Transformed Life (Banner Mini-Guides).   Buy Iain H. Murray, Evangelical Holiness and Other Addresses (Paperback, 2011): https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/evangelical-holiness/   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

We are by nature grumblers and malcontents. We take offence easily, and become critical when our desires and expectations are disappointed. Paul Levy, in this week's main article, helps us to see that these tendencies aren't mere quirks, or 'weaknesses', but sins of great consequence in the church of God. Moreover, they are sins to which we are often tempted at times of great growth and kingdom advance. Through a discussion of the beginning of Acts 6, he helps us see how this dynamic was negotiated by the apostles, and how we can take evasive action against it today.   Featured Content: – 'The Gospel, Grumbling, and Growth', Paul Levy, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 735, December 2024. – Excerpt from United We Stand (Pocket Puritans), by Thomas Brooks (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2009). United We Stand is sourced from Brooks' Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices (Puritan Paperbacks). Buy United We Stand: https://banneroftruth.org/store/church-ministry/united-we-stand/ Buy Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/precious-remedies-against-satans-devices/   About the Contributors: Paul Levy is ministry of International Presbyterian Church in Ealing, London. He writes at https://ealinglevy.wordpress.com/ Thomas Brooks was a Puritan gospel minister. The scant amount of information known about him comes largely from his writing. Born in 1608, he entered Emmanuel College, Cambridge in 1625. He spent several years at sea, perhaps as chaplain, and was licensed as a preacher by 1640. After England's Civil War, Brooks served as pastor of London's Thomas Apostle; in 1648, he preached before the House of Commons. He later became the subject of controversy when he refused baptism and the Lord's Supper to people that weren't walking faithfully with the Lord. Thomas Brooks books include a six-volume set titled The Works of Thomas Brooks, with each book also available individually. Other books include Precious Remedies Against Satan's Devices (written to help people resist Satan's seductive power), The Secret Key to Heaven ( which emphasizes the importance of private prayer) and Heaven on Earth, which reminds people there is no greater privilege than to be a child of God.   Explore the work of the Banner of Truth: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the Magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast  

Jonathan Cruse talks about how Ruling Elders can foster and energize congregational singing.Further ReadingResources by JonathanJonathan Landry Cruse, What Happens When We Worship, Reformation Heritage Books, 2020.Jonathan Landry Cruse, “What Every Elder needs to Know About Congregational Singing” in Faithful and Fruitful, Essays for Elders and Deacons, Eds. William Boekestein and Steven Swets,  Reformed Fellowship Inc. 2019.Books mentioned in the podcastJonty Rhodes, Reformed Worship (Blessings of the Faith), P&R Publishing, 2023.Ligon Duncan, Does God Care How We Worship? P&R Publishing, 2020.Jonathan's three recommendations for every Ruling ElderThomas Watson, The Godly Man's Picture, Drawn with a Scripture Pencil, or, Some Characteristic Marks of a Man Who is Going to Heaven, Banner of Truth Trust.David Dickson, The Elder and His Work. The Westminster Directory for Public Worship (The Westminster Directory for Public Worship discussed by Sinclair B. Ferguson and Mark Dever is currently out of print.Two examples of John Wesley's Directions for Singing.IV. Sing lustily and with good courage. Beware of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up your voice with strength. Be no more afraid of your voice now, nor more ashamed of its being heard, than when you sung the songs of Satan.VII. Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in every word you sing. Aim at pleasing him more than yourself, or any other creature. In order to this attend strictly to the sense of what you sing, and see that your Heart is not carried away with the sound, but offered to God continually; so shall your singing be such as the Lord will approve of here, and reward when he cometh in the clouds of heaven.

Confessions of faith, such as the Westminster Confession of 1646, play a celebrated role in Reformed, evangelical Christianity. This week we consider the value of such documents, and the way in which they often result from a period of pressure or crisis, which leads God's people to give fresh expression to their faith, in order to assist believers in its defense and propagation, and their unity in the truth.   Featured Content: – 'Loving the Westminster Confession and Catechisms', David B. Calhoun, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 651, December 2017. – Excerpt from B. B. Warfield, 'The Significance of the Westminster Standards as a Creed' in Princeton and the Christian Ministry, volume 2, pages 457—459 (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 2012). – 'Confessions and Crises in Church History', John R. De Witt, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 50, September/October 1967.   Explore the work of the Banner: www.banneroftruth.org Subscribe to the magazine (print/digital/both): www.banneroftruth.org/magazine Leave us a voice message: www.speakpipe.com/magazinepodcast

In Episode 89, we sit down with Nune Stepanyan, DNP, FNP-C, CEO, Founder & Aesthetic Injector at The Stepanyan Clinic in Encino, CA. Nune began her career in Critical Care, and while she made the jump to Aesthetics many years ago, her traditional medical roots run deep! While she's a rising star in the injectable world, she approaches her patients and her treatment philosophy with a clinical mindset; that means saying NO or referring out, spending more time on Patient education, and setting realistic expectations that may impact revenue today but result in a lot less headaches tomorrow! In addition to her role as a CEO and a full-time injector at TSC, she's also teaching and training others- a passion she found early on in academia. And she's really good at it! She's currently one of the headliners of the national Revanesse tour with Prollenium going city to city to share her techniques. She's leading cadaver labs, doing in-practice training and consulting, and she made her Aesthetic Next debut this year in multiple talks. In every lecture, it's clear that Nune is a truth teller. She's authentic and unafraid to call out the parts of the industry that seem to jeopardize patient safety or optimal outcomes. She's also a master content creator and has a passion for using her platform to authentically educate, inform and excite others about aesthetic procedures. Tune into her IG any day of the week, and you can find her spilling at least a little tea about the realities of the aesthetics industry! But she credits her candor and real-talk approach to creating trust with her patients and allowing them to feel confident in her ability to deliver great results. Some of Our Favorite Episode Highlights: • Industry Culture: How Nune navigated and transformed challenging industry dynamics and a “mean girl” experience into a platform for authenticity and inclusivity • Ethical Practice: The importance of saying "no" to inappropriate treatments, prioritizing patient well-being over profit, and erroring on the side of caution • Social Media and Aesthetics: Balancing online presence with clinical excellence in the digital age. You really can do both at the same time! • Safety First: Addressing the dangers of unlicensed procedures and DIY treatments and our obligation to keep bad actors out of our specialty • Personal Experience: How her decision to forgo injectables and choose surgery at 35 took her consults to the next level • Business Growth: Insights on expanding to a second clinic location while managing a busy schedule, the finances, and Instagram vs. Reality expectations • Continuous Learning: The value of ongoing education and conference attendance for experienced practitioners to stay innovative and connected in a rapidly evolving specialty • Patient Education: Creating transparent, informative content to build trust and expertise in the field but make it fun, trendy, and sometimes viral! Nune shares her own journey through imposter syndrome, weight issues, mean girls and more, and she's come through it all with her authentic self still intact and zero concern that she's changing who she is to fit anyone's narrative! Her commitment to ethics and patient safety are at the forefront as she navigates the complex world of medical aesthetics with grace, humor, and a dash of sass and brings us all along for the journey. This episode will inspire you and provide a healthy dose of truth moments whether you're an aspiring injector, established practitioner, and anyone finding their way in the evolving world of medical aesthetics. Tune in to hear Nune keep it real in an industry that can be anything but transparent. Warning: Side effects may include a few “hell yeah,” moments of shock, awe and pure entertainment, and a newfound respect for speaking the truth! Learn more about Nune and The Stepanyan Clinic: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestepanyanclinic/?hl=en Website: https://www.thestepanyanclinic.com/

In a world where news is constantly streamed, the sheer amount of information can leave many of us feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to filter what is true.  Bonnie Kristian, journalist and author of “The Knowledge Crisis” joins NAE President Walter Kim to discuss how this issue is leaking into churches and becoming a discipleship issue. Listen in to hear them discuss a way forward. In this episode of Today's Conversation, journalist Bonnie Kristian and NAE President Walter Kim explore practical ways to engage with the surplus of information coming our way, and how to stay on guard in our discipleship to Jesus in the digital age. You'll also hear Walter and Bonnie discuss: The issue of “expertise” in the post-pandemic era; Why having a depth of knowledge on a few topics vs. broad knowledge on all current issues may be more helpful; The growing mindset of “conspiracism” and how to speak to it, or sometimes how to refrain from speaking to it; and Other practical tips for staying grounded in truth.Click here for show notes: NAE.org/kristianpodcast

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When renowned physician-scientist Francis Collins was about to have his first conversation with Christian conservative Wilk Wilkinson in early 2022, he admits that he had concerns. "I thought oh boy, this is going to be a tough one". Dr. Collins had recently stepped down as Director of NIH— The National Institutes of Health. He served under Presidents Obama, Trump, and Biden, and played a leading role in the federal response to the COVID pandemic. Podcaster Wilk Wilkinson, who lives in rural Minnesota, was intensely critical of how the government handled COVID.Today both Francis and Wilk are friends. They lead the Braver Angels' Truth and Trust Project. The goal is to build trust between ordinary Americans and the public health community in the wake of the pandemic. In each Truth and Trust gathering equal numbers of people from each side of the debate about what happened with public health listen carefully and express their views. In this episode of "How Do We Fix It?", Wilk and Francis discuss their unlikely partnership, what they've learned from those they disagree with, and how they're working together across divides."We're going to have another pandemic," says Francis. "If we do not learn the lessons of what went right and what went wrong with this one then we're going to be in a terrible spot."Both men still have different opinions on the role of government mandates in health emergencies. "When I look at anything that involves the government it's through the lens of liberty," says Wilk. "If the one entity out there that has a monopoly on force is going to restrict the liberty of the individual they better be 100% sure that what they're doing is really the only option.""I learned a lot by listening, and Wilk was a very good person to listen to, about how the pandemic was different for somebody who was in a very different place than I was", says Francis. "I also learned from Wilk and others in the Truth and Trust sessions about how sometimes the pronouncements from people like me in public health communication came across as very elitist... as opposed to really explaining the circumstance about how imperfect the data was and how uncertain we often were that we were recommending was going to turn out to be right."Francis's forthcoming book, to be published in mid-September, is "The Road to Wisdom: On Truth, Science, Faith and Trust". Wilk's podcast is "Derate The Hate." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.