Podcasts about Westminster Seminary

What if you could redefine your identity beyond titles and roles? How do you know which path to take when you come upon a fork in the road along life's journey? Join us, as we explore these profound questions with our remarkably wise guest, Dave Schutter. From Military to Ministry - Dave Schutter's Wisdom Journey Our special guest Dave Schutter had his sights set on a military career, dreaming of an appointment to West Point. But God had a different plan for his life. From his dreams of West Point to a transformative mission trip to Albania, Dave's journey is a testament to adaptability, faith and finding purpose. Together, we unravel the intricate balance of separating who we are from what we do, sharing experiences from his time as a military chaplain in Afghanistan and his work in pastoral ministry. It's an engaging conversation steeped in life's simple joys and the wisdom found in unexpected places.   More about Pastor Dave Schutter Dave is a military veteran, a pastor and a pizza aficionado. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, as the son of a military man, Dave dreamed of attending West Point, but a sports injury prevented him from passing the fitness entrance exam. He didn't give up on that dream and years later Dave qualified for that appointment to the US Military Academy at West Point. But he turned down that opportunity in favor of something different.   Today, Dave leads the congregation at Northwest Presbyterian Church as Senior Pastor. Notably in Dave's life, he served as a military Chaplain in the US Army, including an active deployment in Afghanistan. That tour of duty earned him the prestigious Bronze Star.   Dave Schutter graduated with a Master of Divinity degree from Covenant Theological Seminary in 1997 and earned a Master of Theology degree from Westminster Seminary in 2017. He completed his undergraduate studies at Miami (Ohio) University in 1993. Dave is also a contributor to the Jonathan Edwards Encyclopedia (Eerdmans, Fall 2017) and the Jonathan Edwards Global Sermon Editing Project.   Dave, his wife Kim, and their three children live in the Columbus Ohio area.   Resources Connect with Dave on LinkedIn Link to website for Dave's church - Northwest Presbyterian Church   Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg   Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook  @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn   Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.   Episode Chapters [0:03:48] - Skip and Dave pontificate on their shared love of pizza [0:05:48] - Dave's family military legacy; dreams of West Point [0:07:11] - How Skip and Dave are connected [0:08:50] - Dave shares his main thing [0:10:17] - Identity; Solid advice from a mentor in South Dakota [0:14:16] - Pain points, feelings of shame and wondering if we are enough [0:18:39] - A pivotal trip to Albania [0:21:10] - Dave shares a final thought ###

In this special episode of Christ the Center, we commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS) with special guests Dr. Maynard Koerner and Wayne Johnson. Dr. Koerner and Mr. Johnson take us on a historical journey through the origins, theological developments, and challenges that have shaped the RCUS over the past three centuries. From the church's humble beginnings in colonial Pennsylvania, through the Mercersburg controversy, to the influx of Volga German immigrants, we explore how the RCUS has maintained a steadfast commitment to confessional Reformed theology. We also discuss the upcoming tricentennial celebration in Rapid City, South Dakota, and reflect on the church's present and future, its global mission work, and its deep connections with other Reformed bodies, including the OPC and Westminster Seminary. Wayne Johnson is the Provost of City Seminary of Sacramento. He served as the editor of Leben Magazine from 2008–2018 and retired as CEO of Gateway Media in 2019. He has a BA in European History from Purdue University. Dr. Maynard Koerner is the President of Heidelberg Theological Seminary and Associate Pastor of Trinity RCUS in Sioux Falls. Chapters 00:07 Introduction 03:32 The Tricentennial Celebration 04:50 The Colonial Era 11:06 Ecclesiastical Ties and Ministerial Training 20:07 Organization in 1747 28:23 The Mercersburg Controversy 38:46 The Volga/Black Sea German Immigration 42:31 The 1934 Merger 52:25 The RCUS Today 1:02:16 Conclusion

In this episode, we explore the biblical and historical foundations of Presbyterian church government through the lens of the three-office view—minister, ruling elder, and deacon. Joining us are two distinguished guests: Mark R. Brown, editor of Order in the Offices, and Gregory Edward Reynolds, contributor to the volume and editor of Ordained Servant: A Journal for Church Officers. Together, we discuss the scriptural and theological arguments for distinguishing the minister of the Word from the ruling elder, why this distinction matters for the health of the church, and the modern challenges facing Presbyterian polity. Brown shares insights from his decades-long defense of the three-office view, while Reynolds unpacks his essay, "Democracy and the Denigration of Office," explaining how cultural influences have shaped and distorted church governance. Whether you're a church officer, seminarian, or simply interested in Reformed ecclesiology, this conversation offers a compelling case for recovering the historic Presbyterian model of church leadership. Mark R. Brown is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. He is a graduate of Geneva College and Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. After completing his seminary education in 1977, he planted Westminster Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, where he faithfully served as pastor for forty years until his retirement in 2017. Greg Reynolds is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church who has served as a church planter and pastor in both New York and New Hampshire. Before entering the ministry, he worked in the field of architecture. In addition to his pastoral work, he is the editor of Ordained Servant: A Journal for Church Officers, where he has contributed numerous essays on ecclesiology and pastoral ministry. Reynolds is the author of The Word Is Worth a Thousand Pictures: Preaching in the Electronic Age, which explores the impact of media on preaching and worship. His academic background includes studies at the Boston Architectural College, the L'Abri Fellowship, Covenant College (BA, 1975), Westminster Theological Seminary (MDiv, 1979), and Westminster Seminary in California (DMin, 2001)​. This is Christ the Center episode 899 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc899)

Stafford Carson has been associated with Westminster Seminary for nearly half of its existence. He has also had a rather prolific preaching ministry with experience in proclaiming the Word of God in many diverse contexts. Dr. Nate Shannon sits down with Stafford to discuss a range of topics including not just how to preach well but how to listen to preaching well.

Support the show!! - https://www.patreon.com/chasedavisGo to ionlayer.com and use code FPT to get $100 off your first kit. “Going Back to Find the Way Forward” - https://amzn.to/3W3WsQ4Mike on X - https://x.com/mdvirgilioMike's Website - https://mikedvirgilio.com/Video - https://youtu.be/xBMXww3kSIISummaryIn this episode, Chase Davis interviews Mike D'Virgilio, who shares his journey from a Catholic upbringing to becoming an author and apologist. He discusses the influence of apologetics on his faith, his views on Trump and the conservative movement, and the importance of agency and action in effecting change. The conversation also touches on the evolution of conservative leaders, reflections on his time at Westminster Seminary, and the role of media narratives in shaping public perception. D'Virgilio emphasizes the significance of truth in politics and the emergence of 'reality respectors' in today's society. In this conversation, Mike D'Virgilio and Chase Davis explore the themes of belief in God, the role of apologetics in modern Christianity, generational perspectives between boomers and millennials, and the concept of a great awakening in society. They discuss the challenges of secularism, the importance of questioning narratives, and the potential for spiritual revival in contemporary culture. The dialogue emphasizes the need for open conversations across generations and the significance of understanding historical contexts in shaping current beliefs.Support the showSign up for the Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/chasedavisFollow Full Proof Theology on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fullprooftheology/Follow Full Proof Theology on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fullprooftheology/

The incarnation is the central event of our faith, making possible the consummation of the New Covenant in the saving death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ. It is utterly unique, and, as made clear in this week's first piece, utterly incongruous with anything else in history, or in our experience. It is, then, to be an object of our contemplation and a stimulus to our worship of the Triune God: Father, Spirit, and incarnate Son.   Featured Content: – 'An Incongruous Incarnation', Peter Sanlon, Banner of Truth Magazine, Issue 675 (December 2019). – Excerpt from Sinclair B. Ferguson and Derek Thomas, 'Icthus: Jesus Christ, God's Son, the Saviour', (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth, 2015).     About the Contributors: Peter Sanlon has served as a minister in Tunbridge Wells since 2013.  In previous years he has taught at Union School of Theology and Oak Hill Theological College. Today he trains presbyterian ministers via Westminster Seminary. His published books include 'Simply God' (IVP) and 'Augustine's Theology of Preaching' (Fortress). Sinclair Ferguson has authored several books published by the Trust, of which he is a trustee, and a former editor. He retains his position as Professor of Systematic Theology at Redeemer Seminary, Dallas, Texas, and serves as a Teaching Fellow with Ligonier Ministries. He continues to preach God's Word in churches and at conferences. Derek Thomas, a native of Wales, is the Chancellor's Professor of Systematic and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary and also serves as Senior Minister at First Presbyterian Church (ARP) in Columbia, South Carolina.   Buy Ichthus: Jesus Christ, God's Son, the Saviour: https://banneroftruth.org/store/christian-living/ichthus/   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

Danny Olinger, John Muether, Darryl Hart, and Camden Bucey explore the life and legacy of J. Gresham Machen, discussing Richard E. Burnett's provocative book, Machen's Hope: The Transformation of a Modernist in the New Princeton. Burnett seeks to reframe Machen as both modern and orthodox, portraying him as a “conservative modernist” who employed modern intellectual methods while remaining firmly committed to Reformed theology. This episode critically examines Burnett's thesis and evaluates its contribution to understanding Machen's theological and historical significance. While Burnett rightly highlights Machen's struggles in Germany and at Princeton, the panel critiques his use of terms like “modern” and “modernist,” noting they often diverge from Machen's own vocabulary and theological focus. They emphasize that even the younger Machen remained theologically orthodox and discerning of heterodoxy, as seen in his critiques of figures like his professor Wilhelm Herrmann. Furthermore, the panel questions Burnett's emphasis on Machen's early crises over his later, defining contributions—such as founding Westminster Seminary and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church—arguing that this framing risks downplaying Machen's lifelong theological battle against liberalism, which he saw as denying God's direct intervention in history and thus undermining the gospel. This episode sheds light on Machen's enduring legacy and his vital contributions to Reformed orthodoxy. Overall, the panelists contend that Machen's hope was centered on God's supernatural action in history, a hope Machen famously summarized in his final words: “So thankful for active obedience of Christ. No hope without it.” Links D. G. Hart, Defending the Faith: J. Gresham Machen and the Crisis of Conservative Protestantism in Modern America Ned B. Stonehouse, J. Gresham Machen: A Biographical Memoir The Presbyterian Conflict D. G. Hart and John Muether, Fighting the Good Fight: A Brief History of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church Richard E. Burnett, Machen's Hope: The Transformation of a Modernist in the New Princeton Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:05:00 Machen's Significance 00:25:13 Machen's Family Background 00:41:44 Machen at Marburg 00:48:31 Machen, Vos, and History 00:54:54 Machen's Mentors 01:05:28 Assessing Machen 01:20:53 Conclusion

About the Guest(s):David VanDrunen is a respected scholar and professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary, California, located in Escondido, near San Diego. With over two decades of experience, he has extensively researched and discussed areas like natural law and Christian ethics. VanDrunen is also an ordained minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and an accomplished author, contributing significantly to theological education.Episode Summary:In this episode of the Renewal Cast, hosts Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf engage with David VanDrunen to delve into the profound subject of natural law. The discussion promises enriching insights into how humans inherently understand moral laws through God's revelation in nature, a topic VanDrunen has thoroughly explored in his scholarly work. Packed with biblical references and theological depth, the episode is engineered to provide listeners with a clearer understanding of how natural law integrates with Christian faith and practice. Unpacking the central themes of natural law as depicted in scripture, particularly through the lens of Romans 1 and 2, VanDrunen explains how these biblical passages underscore a universal moral awareness inherent to humanity. The dialogue further extends to explore the interrelation between natural law and the two kingdoms doctrine, illuminating how moral standards transcend cultural and religious boundaries, binding all humankind in a shared understanding of right and wrong. VanDrunen emphasizes the historical and theological significance of natural law, showing its role in guiding ethical and public life.Key Takeaways:Natural law is God's law revealed in the natural order, universally known by all humans through their consciences.Romans 1 and 2 provide a biblical basis for understanding natural law, emphasizing that all people are aware of God's laws inherently.Natural law assists in public policy and ethical living by offering a common moral standard for believers and non-believers.The Mosaic covenant reflects natural law but includes additional context relevant to Israel's unique historical role.A thoughtful interpretation of natural law should be guided by scripture, aligning human life choices with God's design.Notable Quotes:"Natural law is God's law, not as delivered in scripture, but as revealed in the natural order.""No one can escape natural law – Romans one says everyone knows it.""The Mosaic law reflects the natural law but gives it to Israel in a way that's consistent with their unique place in redemptive history.""We need to make the distinction that natural theology is fallible and natural revelation is infallible.""Natural law provides a common moral standard and helps us promote principles of good living in our shared public life."Resources:David VanDrunen's works on natural law and Christian ethics.Reference to Romans chapters 1 and 2 for biblical context.Analysis of Genesis 20 and Amos 1 in relation to natural law.Discussion of the two kingdoms doctrine.For those interested in exploring the depth of Christian ethics and understanding natural law's role in faith and societal engagement, listening to the full episode is highly recommended. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on Renewal Cast, where theological wisdom and biblical insights come together for thoughtful discourse.

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Rev. Hank Bowen, pastor of First Reformed Church in Aberdeen, South Dakota, for an insightful conversation on the Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS). Together with Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha, Rev. Bowen traces the rich historical roots of the RCUS, from its German Palatinate origins through its development in America. The discussion covers the denomination's key theological influences, particularly its connections with the Heidelberg Catechism, and its intersections with other Reformed traditions such as the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC). As they reflect on the challenges and blessings the RCUS has faced over the centuries, including its role in resisting liberalism and promoting confessional orthodoxy, the conversation highlights the enduring legacy and ongoing influence of the RCUS in Reformed theology today. Whether you are a familiar with the RCUS or new to its history, this episode offers valuable reflections on the faithfulness of God through the generations. Chapters [00:00:07] Introduction [00:01:26] Overview of the Reformed Church in the U.S. (RCUS) [00:02:53] Updates from Reformed Forum [00:05:40] The History and Formation of the RCUS [00:08:14] Celebrating the 300th Synod of the RCUS [00:11:32] Rev. Bowen's Personal Testimony [00:13:25] The RCUS and Theological Challenges [00:20:15] The Influence of Westminster Seminary on the RCUS [00:24:02] The Importance of Catechesis and the Heidelberg Catechism [00:33:33] Church Planting and Home Missions in the RCUS [00:37:55] Ecumenical Relations with the OPC and the URCNA [00:46:45] RCUS Foreign Missions Strategy [00:57:08] Rev. Bowen's Doctoral Research and Pastoral Burnout [01:00:14] Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To be a mom is often to feel guilt. Often we feel overwhelmed by everything we aren't doing that we “should” be doing and we can worry that we are messing up our kids. Our friends, often out of love, tell us we have nothing to worry about. We've done nothing wrong and we are perfect mothers. But in our gut we know we aren't perfect mothers and we know we have failed our kids at times.How do we discern between conviction over areas where we have sinned versus shame over things the Lord has already forgiven us for or things that we have no power to control? How do we sort out which things we “need to do” as opposed to things our culture says we need to do? What are some techniques for dealing with overwhelming feelings of shame in the moment?Listen in for a Biblical consideration of "mom guilt" with Melissa Falcone --staff counselor at Del Ray Baptist Church, Westminster Seminary grad, Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation instructor, and mom to four.Resource Mentioned:Ask Pastor John, “How Do I Forget My Sinful Past?”

In this podcast conversation, we talk about raising boys, biblical masculinity, Jordan Peterson, toxic masculinity vs. biblical masculinity, the so-called "war on men," and other related issues.  Dr. Anthony Bradley (Ph.D. Westminster Seminary) was most recently professor of religious studies and director of the Center for the Study of Human Flourishing at The King's College, Theologian-In-Residence at Redeemer Presbyterian Church—Lincoln Square, and now serves as a distinguished research fellow at The Acton Institute and Research Professor of Interdisciplinary and Theological Studies at Kuyper College. His books include: Liberating Black Theology (2010), Black and Tired (2011), The Political Economy of Liberation (2012), Keep Your Head Up (2012), Aliens In The Promised Land (2013), John Rawls and Christian Social Engagement (2014), Black Scholars In White Space (2015), Something Seems Strange (2016), Ending Overcriminalization and Mass Incarceration (2018), Faith In Society (2019), Why Black Lives Matter (2020), and Heroic Fraternities (2023). Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintheraw

How can all the Bible be all about Jesus when His name doesn't explicitly appear till the New Testament? From Genesis to Leviticus to Esther, it may be hard to see Jesus on the surface of every page, but he's there—in profound and subtle ways. Dr. Dennis Johnson is a scholar and one of the founding faculty members of Westminster Seminary in California. Today, he joins David Wollen to discuss a christocentric approach to reading and studying God's Word. If you are new to this way of reading the Bible, we encourage you to be patient. It may take some time to learn to see Jesus on every page, but it's important and worth the effort. Because this is not merely a hermeneutical trick of smoke and mirrors ... it's the way Jesus himself taught his disciples to study and teach the Scriptures. 

THE INAUGURAL EPISODE OF OUR NEW MONTHLY SUB-SHOW: FATHERS & BROTHERS. Pastor Jim McCarthy of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Statesboro, GA talks to his mentors and fathers in the faith. This time it's Rick Phillips, the Senior Pastor of Second Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC.  He's authored dozens of books and is a familiar face on the reformed conference circuit. He serves on the boards of Westminster Seminary, the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals, and the Gospel Reformation Network.  Check out his sermons here and books here. Special thanks to Nathan Clark George for our opening and closing instrumental. Nathan serves as the Pastor of Worship alongside Kevin DeYoung at Christ Covenant Church in Matthews, NC. You can access Nathan's fantastic catalog here. (https://nathanclarkgeorge.com/home)

In this profound episode, Jonathan is joined by esteemed theologian and author Michael Horton to discuss his latest book, "Recovering Our Sanity: How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears that Divide Us." In a world teetering on the brink of chaos—from unsettling politics to the lingering effects of the global pandemic—Horton's book offers not a typical self-help guide but a deep theological exploration of how a proper fear of God can liberate us from our myriad earthly fears.Dr. Horton, Professor of Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary, explains what it truly means to fear God—both biblically and theologically—and how this reverential fear can effectively drive out fears of the future, others, and even death itself.Throughout the episode, Dr. Horton discusses the different types of fears that plague our society—from cultural anxieties to personal struggles—and how these stem from a lack of genuine fear of God. He emphasizes confronting our earthly fears with the hope found in Christ, rooted in the Gospel, and the shift from self-preservation to a Christ-focused life.This episode is a humbling, thought-provoking, and hope-igniting journey that challenges listeners to replace false securities with the profound joy of knowing Christ, who commands us, "Do not be afraid." Join us as we explore how cultivating a healthy fear of God can recover our sanity in these turbulent times.To ask Jonathan a question or connect with the Candid community, visit https://LTW.org/CandidFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/candidpodInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/candidpodTwitter: https://twitter.com/thecandidpodTRANSCRIPT:This transcript recounts Candid Conversations with Jonathan Youssef Episode 249: Recovering Our Sanity: How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us: Michael Horton.  [00:01] Jonathan: My very special guest is Mike Horton. He is a professor of systematic theology and apologetics at Westminster Seminary in California, and he is the author of many books, including The Christian Faith Ordinary and Core Christianity. He also hosts the White Horse Inn radio program. He lives with his wife, Lisa, and their four children in Escondido, California, and it looks like he's on his back patio,  having a conversation with me and being very gracious with his time. Mike Horton, thank you so much for taking the time to be on Candid Conversations.[00:45] Michael: Thank you, Jonathan.[00:50] Jonathan: I do thank you for your time. Now Mike, I've read your books, I have subscribed and I do recommend all of our listeners subscribe to the White Horse Inn. If you could just give us a quick, whirlwind tour of your story, we can talk a little bit about the podcast and some of your books as we progress through the interview.[01:19] Michael: Well, thank you, Jonathan. Yeah, I was raised in a Christian home and came to understand the doctrines of grace partly through my older brother. Kind of had my own little, not little, my own Romans revolution and then started digging deeper into Church history and theology and biblical studies, and eventually went to Biola University, Westminster California, then to Oxford for doctoral studies and then post-doc at Yale and came back to teach at my alma mater and have been here for 25 years. Blessed to be able to have a hand, with my colleagues, in training pastors; pastors training pastors.[02:17] Jonathan: I've been a recipient of many of the students of Westminster Seminary who taught me at Reformed Theological Seminary in Atlanta, and I've been really blessed by your work. You've got a very jovial, friendly, California vibe to you, but when you speak, you're like a double-edged sword. It's so penetrating. And I think there could be a theological issue that I've been struggling with for months and you'll say it so concisely in a few sentences, and I'll think, Where was that when I needed that?[03:09] Michael: You're too kind. Thank you.[03:11] Jonathan: Tell us a little bit about the White Horse Inn. It has been on for something like thirty years.[03:17] Michael: Yeah, thirty-plus, almost thirty-five years now. It has been such a fun thing. I've learned so much from my colleagues on the program. I still learn from the new team. We produce a magazine, too, Modern Reformation Magazine, which is really—I encourage people to subscribe to that. It's a good digest of topical theology related to culture. The umbrella organization is called Sola Media, and one of the things that we do that I'm so excited about being a part of is called Theo Global, where we host theological conversations (like we do on the White Horse Inn) between Baptist, Lutheran, Reformed, Anglican traditions and bring people together from a particular region. So we've been doing it for eleven years in India and also almost that long in Nigeria or in Kenya, in Nairobi. And then also Cairo for the Middle East. We just did one in Thailand that Pakistanis and Indians were able to come to, because they're not able usually to see each other. And then we are, Lord willing, starting another one in Southeast Asia, probably Singapore.So these have been so rich. Out of them are coming, a series of theology books from the global church to the global church. And so instead of having just regional theologies or theologies that pretend that they're not culturally contextual, we want to hear the voices of people from different locations testifying to the same Gospel, and that's just really been lots of fun.[05:42] Jonathan: Well, having ministered near that area of the world in Australia, you're right, there can be a disconnect between the cultures. We read each other's books and that sort of thing, and those are Western cultures, but I think we miss out on hearing about what is happening in Southeast Asia, Because they do face similar obstacles but also some quite different. As one of the points of your book is, there is still the one true God and the one Gospel that reaches across those cultures and reaches across so many of those things that we would consider barriers. And I think that's wonderful. I pray the Lord would bless that.[06:30] Michael: Thank you. One of the things I find, Jonathan, is there is a sweet unity around the Gospel that binds us when I go to these other places. Wherever I am in the world, I don't feel like I'm a stranger because I'm with my brothers and sisters. I wish I felt the same way in America. It's very different here.[06:51] Jonathan: Yeah, I was going to say it's interesting that what you're doing is you're unifying and uniting across denominations, across cultural things, and yet that's working almost in the opposite direction of where we see things here, which is there's division within denominations; there's division within small regions. You're undoing what is happening on a bigger scale in some of the Western parts. It's exciting to hear that's not happening everywhere, that there's actually some unification taking place and that's encouraging. And I know that's going to be an aspect of what we talk about in our conversation about one of your new books.Now, I know that you had some health issues with your heart a couple of years ago. Maybe for some of our audience who didn't know or having heard any updates, are you healthy?[07:54] Michael: Thanks for asking. Yes, what it was was a valve that just exploded in my heart, so it was an emergency open-heart surgery. But they said—they know my arteries and my heart better than anybody, they said, you'll die of something, but it won't be of heart disease. You have a good heart; you have good arteries; this was just a fluke.[08:24] Jonathan: Unbelievable.[08:25] Michael: So—yeah. I'm fully recovered. They said I could go bungee jumping again if I want to.[08:32] Jonathan: Again. I'm glad that you were already doing that—I picked up your book a while ago and I've been wanting to have you on the podcast ever since reading it. And the book is called Recovering Our Sanity: How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears that Divide Us. And my goodness, what a perfect title for everything we see. Give us a little bit of the reason for writing and the timing of the book.[09:18] Michael: Well, it had been percolating for years now, actually. I wrote a book many years ago called Beyond Culture Wars: Is America a Mission Field or a Battlefield? And this is in a similar vein, but really in light of the fears that really divide us today. And the center used to be the Bible, the Gospel, getting the Gospel right and getting the Gospel out. We have our doctrinal differences across the evangelical mainstream, but basically we had different political views and those political views didn't divide between brothers and sisters and churches.And what I've seen lately has just been like a food fight in a cafeteria, and political issues and social issues raised to the level of the Trinity. And it's like, okay, well, we can argue about that over coffee, but we don't bring it into the church. That used to be kind of how people thought about things. These things are important, but they're not as important as our unity in Christ. But I hear people attacking pastors, pastors attacking their flock, back and forth over these issues. And I think people don't get this heated over the doctrine of election or justification or the Trinity. Does it suggest that these issues are deeper in our hearts than the truth of Christianity, so what really binds us?And I looked at it and I said what really binds us is salvation, what we think we're saved from. If we think we're saved from the people over there who are threatening our values, or the people over there who are different from us ethnically, or the people over there who have a different view of economics and social justice? What are we really afraid of? What are our ultimate fears? And I argue that we have all these secondary fears. The real fear deep down, the mother of all fears, is the fear of death. And none of the solutions that can be offered by FOX or CNN, there is no solution to that. But we have it. Why isn't that on our dashboard as central, getting it right and getting it out?[13:01] Jonathan: In the book you cast a broad net in kind of what you've just said up here, picking out a few of the issues that you're seeing so much division over. But then you lay out some of the theological framework to reorientate your reader to where fear should rightly be placed. And it's away from the fear of one another and having a right fear of God.And you use the word sublime in the book, which I found really helpful as an aspect of God. I wonder if you could give us a little bit of explanation and walk that out for us.[13:52] Michael: Sure. I love that word. Sublime is really, I think, what we're talking about when we talk about the fear of God. Some people will say, “Well, it's not really fear. It's reverence, awe.” Fear is a big part of it, but it's a kind of fear that attracts. Think of what happens if you've ever stood at the mouth of a volcano, looking over it, watching the lava flow. Or I live in Southern California, so we have fires, and there's a kind of weird attraction to going to the fire and seeing it. Or you're out on the ocean and you're terrified. A squall comes up you're afraid, but you're also kind of your heart is racing not just because you're afraid, but also because you're kind of in awe of what's happening. In awe of the waves.God, you know whenever an angel shows up in the Bible, an emissary of God, what's the first thing? You know the number-one commandment throughout Scripture? The number-one command is “Be not afraid.” Because when even the mailman of God shows up, people are terrified.[15:31] Jonathan: Yeah, or Moses's face is a little too bright.[15:36] Michael: Yeah. Hey, put a napkin over that or something… That's what, really, is the basis for all sublime events, encounters that we have is really the fear of God. And so it's … A Jewish writer, John Levinson, puts it well. He says, “In the Hebrew Scriptures God beckons with one hand and repels with the other.”So there's a kind of don't get too close. Even Jesus in His Resurrection, “Don't touch me. I'm different.” God is different from us. And that sense of awe, of majesty, of even terror. Think of the disciples in the boat with Jesus. They were afraid of the storm, and then Jesus calmed the storm and they were afraid of Jesus. Who is this who has control over the winds and the waves? They were terrified. And that's the kind of Who is this? What am I dealing with here? The kind of shock and awe, the surprise is something that is missing, I think, from a lot of our experience as Christians today.[17:11] Jonathan: Well, and I know in the book we've seen a lot of the statistical evidence that comes in support of what you've just said, which shows that evangelical Christians really don't know what they believe. They have a complete misunderstanding of God, of the nature of Christ, of their roles.[17:51] Michael: If the fear of God is not the beginning of our wisdom, then something else will be. We'll fear something else. We will fear other people who are different from us and we'll fear cancer, we'll fear losing our job, we'll fear environmental collapse and catastrophe, we'll fear these other people taking over. It's not that those … that there aren't legitimate concerns of a political and social and cultural nature. But we have a disordered fear. And if we have disordered fears, we have disordered loves.God is not only the source of our greatest fear, legitimate fear; He's also the only one who conquers our fears and says, “Welcome home, prodigal. Welcome home, here's the feast.”[19:22] Jonathan: And deals with our, as you refer to it, the mother of all fears.[19:27] Michael: Death. We're dying. In California, people aren't allowed to die; they pass away; and we put these cemeteries out, far away from view, or we turn them into parks and things. And it used to be every time you walked into a church there would be headstones, and it reminded you as you walked in why you're going in there. The Gospel is for dying people, and we're all on that road. And so the question is, How do we face death? … How is that ultimate anxiety relieved? We mourn, but not as those who have no hope. So what does that mean for my daily life now? I could be twelve years old and I'm dying. I could be eighty and I'm dying. So what … Let's talk about that. Let's talk about the dying and the resurrection of the dead and being attached to Jesus so that what He is in His humanity right now, glorified, we will be. Let's talk about that. That's a lot better than anything on CNN or FOX.[21:00] Jonathan: I love it. I think in the book you tell the story of when you went to a debate with, I might be messing this up, but I think it was with an atheist and you sort of said, “Yep. Great. Can I talk about Jesus now” and kind of put him off, and he sort of like, “I wasn't prepared to debate that.”[21:22] Michael: Yeah. This was years ago. Bill Nye the Science Nye.[21:24] Jonathan: Bill Nigh, that's right.[21:25] Michael: He was talking about how religion is based on false fears and so they develop myths and so forth.[21:37] Jonathan: And you were like, “Well, that's true.”[21:39] Michael: Yeah. I don't disagree; that's a pretty fair analysis of religions. I guess you'd have to take one by one and analyze it, but as a generalization, now can I talk about Jesus and His Resurrection? Let's keep getting back to the main business here.[21:59] Jonathan: The main issue. Yeah. In the book you draw this distinction between naturalistic and hyper supernatural, but then you sort of carve out this third option of ordinary. Can we talk a little bit about that and how we see that playing out in our world today, particularly in the Church?[22:23] Michael: Sure. Often what you see today is a naturalism underwriting the progressive agenda and John Lennon's “Imagine.” On the right, you tend to have a hyper supernaturalism wedded to a conservative agenda. And so what do I mean by that? Well, a naturalistic worldview says, of course, God isn't involved. If God exists, then He's not involved in this world. He didn't create it, it's self-evolving and so forth.A hyper-supernatural worldview says that God works miraculous. You know, to say that God did it means it's a miracle.[23:34] Jonathan: Yeah.[23:35] Michael: Whereas in the Bible God does all sorts of things. Mostly, He doesn't perform miracles. What about all the times when we cut our finger and it heals after a week? What about that? What about a child [who] has a brain bleed in NICU and it resolves in 24 hours. How about those? Those aren't miracles. People say, “the miracle of childbirth.” There's no miracle of childbirth; it's just a spectacular example of God's providence. That's part of our problem is we're looking for God only in the spectacular, only in the extraordinary, only in places where we can point to and say, “Oh, God did that.”So we can't explain how somebody recovered from cancer; we say, “Well, God did it, not the doctors.”[24:46] Jonathan: Right.[24:47] Michael: Well, how about God did it and the doctors did it. God did it through the doctors.[24:52] Jonathan: How much control does God have here?[24:55] Michael: Right. He has control of everything. It's not just supernatural events; it's not just miracles. God's in control of every second, every breath. Every breath that you and I take is under His dominion.[25:11] Jonathan: That's right. He holds all things together. You know, I hear that phrase a lot, “That was a God thing. That was a God thing,” and I always have to stop and say to them, “Everything is a God thing.” I mean, conversations. The fact that your brain works. The ability to read. The ability to understand and reason. It's like I hate when you get that narrow scope, as you're saying. We've lost the sublime. We've lost an understanding of how much—you know, it's almost a deistic view that, you know, God sort of—[25:42] Michael: Yes![25:43] Jonathan: He's put some things in place and then He occasionally steps in and—[25:47] Michael: That's why I argue that actually naturalism and hyper supernaturalism unintentionally conspire with each other against Christianity—[25:57] Jonathan: Right.[25:58] Michael: —you know because, you know, we get to the place where we don't see God in our ordinary, everyday existence, but only in these punctuated events, and we've got to raise things. I think we do a lot of pretending. We pretend that things that have an ordinary explanation are miracles because we have to have God in our life. These large swaths of our lives where there are no miracles are upheld by God's marvelous providence.[26:40] Jonathan: Right. Amen to that. In the book, one of the fears you mentioned is fear of losing your job. And I think in the book you helpfully distinguish between calling and vocation or job and helping us understand and distinguish the two things. I wonder if we can talk a little bit of bringing clarity to that, because we're longing for something to put our identity in. Is it a football club? Is it a university? We're currently, I don't know when this will air, but we're in the middle of March Madness. Who did you pick? What's your university? What's your background?And vocation is very much one of those things we can put our identity in, and yet I think you talk about the ultimate and the penultimate between calling and vocation. I wonder if you could bring some clarity to that, and then we'll turn to some of the practical outworkings of the division we see after that.[27:53] Michael: Yeah. Well, one of the things I try to maintain throughout the book is, look, the things I'm talking about are not unimportant. They are legitimate fears. There is a legitimate anxiety. The question is, where do we go with that? But yes, let's affirm it. It's real, it's a deal, but penultimate not ultimate.For example, if I am in a circle of people I've never met before, we're having breakfast, and I ask them, “Tell me about yourself,” very ordinarily they'll say, “Well, I'm a dentist. I'm a …”Now okay, there's an example. That is part of our identity. Vocation is a gift of God; it's a calling. So to say, you know, we shouldn't place our identity in our vocations, well, not ultimately. That's the problem. It's a part of our identity, just like being a father is part of my identity. That's a calling. And we have to realize, as Luther said, we have many callings, many vocations during our life. We're parents, we're spouses, we're children, we are extended family members, we're dentists, and cleaning movie theaters. We have all kinds of callings/vocations. Sometimes we have a vocation to suffer, to carry a cross. Sometimes we have a vocation to be a friend. We have lots of vocations, and keeping them in balance is very important.Keeping them penultimate, not ultimate, is my point. My ultimate identity is chosen, redeemed, justified, being sanctified, will be glorified, in union with Christ. That's my identity and that's really who I am. Paul talks about himself as if he's almost collapsed into Jesus. His identity is so bound up with Christ that he can even say his suffering is something he glories in because it shares in Christ's suffering. That's my identity; that's where I really find who I am. The other stuff is not just stuff I do, that turns it back into a job. It is part of my identity, but it's penultimate, not ultimate.[30:57] Jonathan: Well, as we said at the beginning, we see division in so many different places. We're, of course, as you know, we're in another election year, and that—fear is going to be used as a … it's going to be weaponized this year, particularly this year, in America. And we have an international audience, so I want to be sensitive, but I know that internationally also they see a lot of American news as well. I think you talk about how, in the book, two sides to the fear coin. You mention both in the book. One side, fear is easily exploited as a motivator. On the other, fear is a weak motivator in the long term. Why is that? Let's kind of unpack that a little bit.[32:07] Michael: Yeah. I use the analogy of deer who are … there is this fight or flight that God gave us and the animals as well. It's purely instinctual, instinctive. You don't … Whether you're a deer or a human being, you don't really think about, you don't contemplate, you don't calculate, you don't explore what … You have a car coming towards you, you flee. You get out of its way if you can. But what happens is—That's adrenaline. That adrenaline rush is just a marvelous gift of God's providence. The problem is what would happen is deer had this disease of constantly being afraid, every crack of brush of another deer drove them wild running in fear? That's what I see us doing now, and what happens is it works in the short term. If you're going to cynically use fear to get a herd of people to do what you want them to do, that might work in the short term, but long term, people can't live like that. Long term, people actually become cynical. They won't participate at all. They'll just turn it off because “I've had this scare a thousand times and I'm not going to have it anymore. I'm tired of it.” It just runs out.And that's what I think a lot of people are feeling right now with American politics. So I'm not an analyst of American politics by any stretch of the imagination; I'm simply looking at it on the pastoral side. What is driving us to be like the deer in the headlights every five minutes? And it's exhausting us.[34:33] Jonathan: Yeah.[34:34] Michael: Each side whipping up the other side against each other. If I don't win this election, dot, dot, dot. If the other person wins the election, dot, dot, dot. It's apocalypse not. I especially find offensive any use of God or the Bible or Christ for that fear. Anyone who does that, particularly cynical leaders who don't even go to church, aren't professing Christians really, but they use the lingo to gain the nomination of particular groups. When Christians participate in that, they carry crosses to the U.S. Capitol to storm it and talk about hanging the vice president, and they're carrying crosses with Bible verses, this is the sort of thing that must just aggravate our Lord and Savior whose name is taken in vain.And yeah, is that a critique especially of evangelical political conservatives? Yes, it is. Because they are my brothers and sisters closest to me. The secularists aren't really invoking the name of Jesus and Bible verses and carrying crosses. I'm more worried about evangelicals distorting the gospel than I am about who wins this next election.[36:54] Jonathan: What is that doing to your testimony to those people who don't know the Lord? What message is it giving them?[37:10] Michael: That Christianity is about power.[37:11] Jonathan: Right, exactly.[37:12] Michael: It's not about a cross with God who has all power becoming flesh being spat upon and then being crucified upon a cross, bleeding for our sins. It's about basically choosing Caesar over Jesus, making Pilate our hero rather than Jesus.[37:45] Jonathan: I found that chapter, I can't remember if it's the Christian nationalism chapter or the one before, but it was really helpful the way that you walked out American history in a way that probably a lot of the readers might say, “I don't know if I understood that.” Or “I don't know if I fully understood Thomas Jefferson and his letter to the Danbury Baptist Church in Connecticut.” Understanding separation of church and state, understanding like how we got to where we are and the creating of even thinking between the British … French revolution and those different paths that were laid out before us. And even just understanding our own history and how we got to where we are, I think a lot of it is just cast as Christian nation. And I found it helpful the way you distinguish that.Because I hear this a lot in the church in terms of America being the new Israel, are there blessings that have come with certain things? Sure, fine. Our Constitution is well put together. I love the history of Witherspoon, the Scottish Presbyterian, and you can see some of that in the language that comes out through the Constitution. Again, I think it's helpful to have your historical understanding rather than this reinterpretation that we have now that it's, as you said, it's this feeling like someone's come in and taken this from us. And now, to use the title of your other book, now we're at war, right? It's not a mission field, it's a battlefield. We're fighting for the honor of our country. And all that's done is create us and them division and a lack of clarity and a lack of what we're called to in a mission sense as Christians. Where was I going with that? Who knows? Anyway, I found it helpful.[40:10] Michael: You said it better. Preach it, brother.[40:16] Jonathan: Just random thoughts. Just reading your books and regurgitating it to the people. So later on in the book you sort of walk us through the areas where division has come in. So we have Christian nationalism has certainly seeped into churches. Then you have some really helpful, short chapters with issues with LGBTQ+ community, cancel culture, racism. Let's just kind of walk through some of these and help Christians who are listening to this who are saying, I thought this was the right way to handle that situation but you're saying something else. Let's kind of walk through maybe even just one or two of those. Again, you had a really great illustration under your LGBTQ+ chapter of the young man whose family had sent him to you and you were pastoring him and what happened with all that. If you could tell us a little bit about that, just to help kind of encapsulate what we're talking about here.[41:35] Michael: Sure, this brother struggling with homosexuality, his dad was on the board of a prominent evangelical organization, and his pastor had told him that we basically don't want your influence in the church, so he was considering leaving the faith. But then he read Putting Amazing Back Into Grace, a book I wrote a long time ago, and came out to work at our organization as just a pretext for just hanging out and shepherding this guy. He became a part of our church and a lot of people looked after him and we got a lot back from him.He went back home, and his pastor said that all this reformed teaching he was getting was heresy and so forth, and no, you've lost your salvation. Romans says that He gave them over to a depraved mind. So he committed suicide and …So what is it? Why do you do stuff like that? Well, you do it out of bad theology, to be sure, but also out of fear. There are a lot of churches that just don't want to deal with it. They don't want to have this problem. They don't want to say that they have people in their congregation who are really, really suffering. If you're a secularist, you don't suffer from homosexuality. You don't suffer with gender dysphoria. Only Christians do. And only Christians suffer with greed and envy and malice and other sins that are listed in these same sin lists in the New Testament. You don't lose your salvation over those.The key is repentance, right? We're called to a life of repentance. Whatever our tendencies are towards particular sins, we're all corrupt in heart. We're sinners and we're sinned against and we are in a sin-cursed world. And so where do we go with that fear? And then once that fear is solved objectively in Christ, having been justified through faith, we have peace with God. That's an objective fact. With that now as an objective fact, how do I respond to this brother or sister who's justified just as I am, and who is being sanctified just as I am, but has propensity toward a particular sin that I think is particularly serious, particularly great? How do I love this person? How do I respond to this person?John Calvin said a pastor needs to learn how to have two voices: one for the sheep and one for the wolves. And what I've seen in some very close cases to my own experience, what I've seen sometimes is pastors confusing the sheep for wolves and treating them as apostates or as people who, you know, if you really were a Christian, you wouldn't be suffering with that. Well, they're not saying, “I have a right to this sin.” They're not saying that it's okay. That's why they're struggling with it—and they're struggling with it in your church.So one of the surveys, actually a couple of the surveys concluded that about 80 percent of people in the LGBTQ+ community were raised in conservative Roman Catholic or Protestant churches.[46:39] Jonathan: Give that statistic again because I think we need to hear it again.[46:42] Michael: I don't know exact, it's in the 80s, 80 percent.[46:46] Jonathan: Over 80 percent.[46:49] Michael: Right. And what's even more striking is the same percentage said that they would come back to church, even if they didn't change their rules, but listened to them and cared for them. That's what I found amazing. I was glad that they asked … they added in that survey even if they didn't change their beliefs but they were kind and they listened and they cared for me.So if I'm fearful, here again the adrenaline, the deer in the headlights, that's a gift God gave us for fleeing something that is imminently threatening. This is not imminently threatening. If I come to understand that, then I'm not a deer in the headlights; instead, my brother or sister, my friend, parent, I'm someone who is looking out for the best of this person and now I can actually get ahold of myself and think and make judgments and articulate things. And ask questions and get information. That's a big part of it. It's not all spiritual. People are suffering from mental health disorders, and that's physical, that's brain chemistry. All kinds of things.People are suffering from sins that have been committed against them in the past. A lot of this is very complicated, and it's not all that person's direct fault. Again, we're all sinners, sinned against, and live in a sin-cursed world. And all those factors play into what we have to consider when we're not the deer in the headlights but can sit down with people over a long time, be willing to walk with them over a long time, be willing to read up on things, ask them questions, we're that interested in them and understanding what they're going through, understanding their pain. It's like if they have cancer we'd be at their house with casseroles, but if they have these things, you know … So let's … fear of the Lord drives out the fears of everyone and everything else. This is the beginning of wisdom.[48:52] Jonathan: Exactly. Well, I think we could probably have this conversation for probably another four more hours, which we might do just because we're having so many technical difficulties. You know, I can't recommend this book enough. Mike Horton, Recovering Our Sanity: How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears that Divide Us. I told my team I want to re-air this as we get closer to November so that we can all be reminded once again of what we're called to. Mike, what are you working on at the moment?[50:35] Michael: I've been kind of obsessive compulsive about a project, three volumes with Eerdmans. First volume is coming out in May, titled Shaman and Sage. This is a very different project. It's the history of spiritual not religious. Where does this come from? You have this divine self within trying to break out of all constraints. And so I trace it all the way back to ancient Greece and to the Renaissance. And then the second volume, Renaissance to the scientific revolution. And then the third volume is covering Romanticism to the present.[51:31] Jonathan: Oprah.[51:32] Michael: Exactly.[51:35] Jonathan: That's going to be a massive help for believers, because that's the one we see a lot in those statistics. Yeah, I hear that from quite a few people, spiritual but not religious, or whatever the phrase is. But well, Mike Horton, it's been such a privilege. I'm so grateful for your time and coming on to Candid Conversations and sharing with us.[52:10] Michael: Jonathan, thank you so much. It's been a pleasure.[52:14] Jonathan: Thank you, brother.  

Support the show!! - https://www.patreon.com/chasedavishttps://americanreformer.org/2024/03/build-a-fortress/https://americanreformer.org/2024/03/restore-baptist-churches-to-save-the-west/SummaryIn this episode, the hosts discuss the concept of fortresses in the context of Christianity in today's world. They explore the differences between culture warriors and cultural engagement, highlighting the flaws in both approaches. They introduce the concept of cultural insurgency as a strategy for Christians in the current negative world. The hosts delve into the importance of shifting loyalties and owning space, emphasizing the need for Christians to understand the distinction between the ruling regime and the nation. They also discuss the significance of fortresses as a metaphor for strengthening the Christian position and launching from a place of strength. The conversation explores the concept of fortresses as a strategy for Christians in a negative world. Fortresses are tangible, martial in spirit, and serve as defensive structures that can be a base for launching forward. The progression in building fortresses is similar to the progression in strategy games, starting with small settlements and advancing to defensive structures. Fortresses are cultural spaces that provide a necessary area of life for Christians. Examples of fortresses include American Reformer and classical education. Churches owning their own space is crucial in a negative world. Screening is important to attract the right people and protect the integrity of the fortress. Normies can be won over by offering a better and higher life.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions03:44 Culture Warriors vs Cultural Engagement09:18 Cultural Insurgency13:56 Shifting Loyalties26:00 The Importance of Fortresses28:50 Introduction to the Concept of Fortresses29:19 The Importance of Tangibility and Martial Spirit30:14 Progression in Building Fortresses31:09 Fortresses as Cultural Spaces32:08 Building a Network of Fortresses33:07 Examples of Fortresses: American Reformer and Classical Education36:43 The Importance of Churches Owning Space39:29 Screening and the Importance of Attracting the Right People44:16 The Controversy of Screening and Ruffling Feathers45:38 The Concept of Normies and Acquiring Their LoyaltySupport the showSign up for the Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/chasedavisFollow Full Proof Theology on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fullprooftheology/Follow Full Proof Theology on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fullprooftheology/

This Sunday kicked off our 2024 Global Missions Conference! We welcome guest speaker, Lloyd Kim to preach during our morning worship services.   A native of California, Lloyd graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in engineering and worked as a consultant with Ernst & Young before getting his M.Div. at Westminster Seminary and his doctorate in New Testament Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary. He was associate pastor with New Life Mission Church (PCA) in Fullerton, Calif., before joining MTW. Beginning in 2004, Lloyd and his wife Eda served as church-planting missionaries in the Philippines and Cambodia. He then served as MTW's international director of the Asia-Pacific region before his nomination as MTW coordinator in July of 2014. He was elected MTW Coordinator by the 2015 General Assembly.   Sermon recorded February 25th, 2024.   Lloyd Kim preaching at Oak Mountain Prebyterian Church in Birmingham, AL

About the Guest(s):D.G. Hart is an esteemed history professor at Hillsdale College. Hart's remarkable career includes teaching positions at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia, California, and an early tenure at Wheaton College after completing graduate school. Hart is a published author with works that delve into a variety of subjects, with a notable book on J. Gresham Machen, originally his dissertation at Johns Hopkins, which has stayed in print since its first publication in 1994.Episode Summary:In this informative edition of Renewalcast, host Jay Wipf welcomes Dr. D.G. Hart to discuss the legacy of Jay Gresham Machen, a significant figure in American church history. As we approach the centennial of Machen's seminal work "Christianity and Liberalism," Hart outlines the profound impact of Machen's writings and thoughts on contemporary Christendom.Hart paints a picture of Machen as a well-educated and influential thinker from a prestigious Baltimore family, who traversed the academic and ecclesiastical worlds with vigor and conviction. The episode offers discerning insights into Machen's life as a scholar, his stance on hot-button issues such as church controversies and secular government mandates, and his unwavering defense of orthodox Protestant beliefs against the tide of liberalism in the early 20th century. With a narrative rich in anecdotes and scholarly commentary, Hart provides a detailed synopsis of "Christianity and Liberalism," underscoring the timelessness of Machen's defense of doctrinal veracity and the imperative of upholding the gospel's centrality in Christian life.Key Takeaways:J. Gresham Machen was an esteemed theologian and church statesman known for his rigorous defense of orthodox Christianity."Christianity and Liberalism," celebrating its 100th anniversary, remains a significant work, critiquing the theological missteps of liberal Protestantism.Machen's personal life intersected with historical events, influencing his perspectives on theological and societal issues such as Sabbath observance and secular policies.DG Hart reiterates Machen's argument that Christianity is fundamentally a doctrinal religion and emphasizes the continued relevance of "Christianity and Liberalism."The podcast explores the parallel between theological liberalism in Machen's day and modern progressivism, revealing Machen's enduring resonance in today's theological discourse.Notable Quotes:"It speaks to Machen's ability as a writer and thinker to be able to express himself in ways that are still useful to people three or four generations removed.""There's always controversy going on among God's people.""There will be no Christianity without the cross of Christ, without the death of Christ for sinners and their sins and overcoming death in the resurrection.""The Bible from cover to cover is a book of controversy.""It's such a defense of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is truly a great book in that regard."Resources:No explicit resources, articles, books, or social media handles were mentioned during the conversation for listing in this section.Experience the full depth of DG Hart's explication on the life and influence of J. Gresham Machen by listening to this episode of Renewalcast. Discover how Machen's theological rigor continues to resonate through the decades, shaping our understanding of the gospel and our engagement with the enduring questions of faith and practice. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes that explore the profound narratives of church history and doctrine.

NoCo Jr. (Luke Abendroth) discusses his first semester at WestCal and much more!

About The Guest(s):David VanDrunen is a professor of systematic theology and Christian ethics at Westminster Seminary, California. He has written extensively on Christianity and culture and is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.Summary: David VanDrunen discusses the importance of understanding creation when discussing human sexuality. He explains that our nature as sexual beings is part of who we are and that the fall has corrupted our sexual desires but not our basic human nature. He emphasizes the need to root discussions of sexuality in issues of creation and the natural order. VanDrunen also addresses the distinction between biological sex and gender, highlighting the importance of recognizing that gender is a choice while biological sex is a natural characteristic. He explains that gender identity that goes against biological sex is unnatural to the creation order. The conversation then turns to the use of language in the discussion of sexuality and the importance of being careful not to co-opt language that supports ideas contrary to biblical teachings. VanDrunen also explores the concept of the image of God and how it relates to discussions of sexuality. He emphasizes that our identity as image bearers of God is defined by God and that sin has damaged the image of God in us. Finally, VanDrunen discusses attending same-sex weddings and the need to be discerning in how we engage with others while still upholding biblical principles.Key Takeaways:Understanding our nature as sexual beings is crucial when discussing human sexuality.Gender is a choice, while biological sex is a natural characteristic.Gender identity that goes against biological sex is unnatural to the creation order.We need to be careful not to co-opt language that supports ideas contrary to biblical teachings.Our identity as image bearers of God is defined by God, and sin has damaged the image of God in us.Attending same-sex weddings should be approached with discernment and a commitment to upholding biblical principles.Quotes:"We don't have a choice whether we're male or female. We don't have a choice about the proper way to express our sexuality. God has made us in a certain way, and it's actually good for us if we live according to the way God made us.""We need to help our children or help people in our churches to see that actually, this is good for us. This is according to the way that God has made us. He hasn't done it to constrict us. He's done it for our good.""We need to resist the kind of co-opting of our language. We need to be careful when we're in real-life, concrete situations. We need to give fellow Christians a fair bit of room for judgment as to how you talk and how you interact with people.""We've been deeply damaged by sin, and we're inclined as sinners to kind of make normative the way we feel, to kind of exalt our own feelings and to presume that those are what's normal, that is what is good. But as fallen sinners, we can't do that. We can't trust our own feelings, can't trust our own thoughts. Sin has deeply affected us, and we're going to have to keep coming back to the Scriptures for God's own definition of who He is and therefore who we are as those who bear His image.""We are created by God as His image bearers. That is part of our identity, and that obviously is really important. But then even more so, even more precious to us now, is that we are redeemed by Christ. We're united to Him, we are justified, adopted, sanctified in Him. And in a way, I think probably the entire Christian life is a process of getting used to that. It's a process of learning how to be that other way, that we're citizens of heaven, we're heirs of a kingdom that cannot be shaken as sinners. That's unnatural for us. It has become sort of unnatural in that kind of sinful nature way. It takes us time to get used to being the people of God, to get used to being the Church of Jesus Christ."

About The Guest(s): Dan Borvan is the newly installed pastor at Christ Reform Church in Anaheim, California. He is also an adjunct faculty member at Westminster Seminary, California. Dan has a passion for the French Reformation and has dedicated his studies to uncovering the rich theology and history of the French Reform Church. Summary: In this episode of Renewalcast, Colt Robinson interviews Dan Borvan about the French Reformation. The French Reformation is often overlooked in comparison to the Protestant Reformation in Germany and Switzerland. However, it played a significant role in shaping the theology and history of the Reformed tradition. Dan provides an overview of the French Reformation, starting with its origins in the 1520s and the influence of key figures like Nicholas Cop and John Calvin. He discusses the persecution faced by French Protestants, the establishment of churches, and the publication of the French Confession of faith. Dan also highlights the courage and resilience of the French Reformers in the face of intense opposition and persecution. Key Takeaways:The French Reformation was an organic movement that gained momentum in the 1520s and 1530s.The French Reformers faced intense persecution and were labeled as seditious rebels by the Roman Catholic authorities.John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion and the French Confession of faith were influential in shaping the theology of the French Reform Church.The French Wars of Religion in the second half of the 16th century were marked by conflicts between Catholics and Protestants, as well as divisions within the Catholic camp.The St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre in 1572 was a turning point in the French Reformation, leading to widespread persecution and the continuation of the religious civil war.The Edict of Nantes in 1598 provided temporary coexistence between Catholics and Protestants, allowing the French Reform Church to flourish for a few decades before the repeal of the edict in 1685.Quotes:"We must commit as much as we can to stand for the truth, so that when those moments come for us, the Holy Spirit will empower us to stand." - Dan Borvan"Psalm singing was a great offense to the Roman Catholics. It was the original counterculture, anti-establishment, shake your fist at the man kind of music." - Dan Borvan

In this episode, Rush talks with author and mother Jackie Gibson. Jackie and her husband Jonnie have four children. She serves alongside him at Westminster Seminary and most recently published her book “You Are Still A Mother.” In this episode Jackie shares her journey through the still birth death of her daughter Leila. And they talk about the unique challenges of grief in the loss of a child, how caring friends can comfort and help, and the precious ways in which God meets us in our darkest grief and loss. JACKIE GIBSON ONLINEInstagramMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEYou Are Still A Mother by Jackie GibsonThe Moon Is Always Round by Jonathan GibsonHelping a Hurting Friend by Garrett HigbeeSomeone I Know Is Grieving by Edward T. WelchLearn more about the podcast here. Timestamps:1:20 - Intro1:39 - Moving from Australia3:37 - Life and Ministry Now6:08 - The Story Behind the Book "The Moon is Always Round"16:37 - The Commonality of Loss17:35 - What voices of friends and Scripture shined lights of hope?24:40 - The Comfort of Psalm 13917:49 - Advice for Helping Those Who Grieve31:56 - Thinking About Leila Now34:34 - Farewell

About The Guest(s): D.G. Hart is a historian and professor of history at Hillsdale College. He has taught at various institutions including Westminster Seminary and Wheaton College. He is also an elder in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and has written several books on history and theology. Summary: D.G. Hart discusses the impact of geography and government on the Reformation. He explains how the political environment influenced the success and spread of the Reformation, highlighting the importance of gaining support from local politicians. He also emphasizes the diversity and regional differences in the Reformation, with each area facing unique challenges and circumstances. The conversation then turns to the concept of a "golden age" in the Reformation. Hart argues against the idea of a golden age, stating that it is a misnomer and that there is always a mix of good and bad in any historical period. He points to specific periods in Reformed history, such as the Synod of Dort and the Westminster Assembly, as examples of high points in Reformed theology. The discussion also touches on the topics of martyrdom, missions, and the ongoing debate between Calvinism and Arminianism. Hart explains how martyrdom and persecution played a role in the spread of the Reformation and the development of religious freedom. He also discusses the adaptability of Calvinism to different cultures and the challenges of the Calvinist-Arminian debate. Lastly, Hart addresses the accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition. He argues that these accusations are often unfounded and that Reformed theology does emphasize the importance of sanctification and good works. Key Takeaways:Geography and government played a significant role in the success and spread of the Reformation.The concept of a "golden age" in the Reformation is a misnomer, as there is always a mix of good and bad in any historical period.Martyrdom and persecution were influential in the spread of the Reformation and the development of religious freedom.Calvinism has been adaptable to different cultures and has played a role in missions.Accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition are often unfounded, as Reformed theology emphasizes sanctification and good works.Quotes:"The political environment in which the Church Reformation started was crucial. If you didn't gain support from your local politician, you could be executed." - D.G. Hart"One of the reasons why I like to study history is there's so much variety. It's hard to generalize." - D.G. Hart"The idea of a golden age for American Presbyterianism was the period of the Old School Presbyterian Church." - D.G. Hart"Martyrdom leads to the ideals of religious freedom and separation of church and state." - D.G. Hart"Calvinism has been adaptable to different cultures and has played a role in missions." - D.G. Hart"Accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition are often unfounded." - D.G. Hart

In this episode, Caleb discusses the mission of the church with Bryan Estelle (PhD, The Catholic University of America) Professor of Old Testament at Westminster Seminary. Together, they tackle questions like: What is the mission of the church? How does the mission of the church effect the ministries of the church? What are the dangers of misunderstanding the mission of the church? How is what the cooperate church does similar to and different from what might be permissible and good for individual church members? Resources: The Primary Mission of the Church: Engaging or Transforming the World? by Bryan Estelle https://a.co/d/0eTTqgy What Is the Mission of the Church?: Making Sense of Social Justice, Shalom, and the Great Commission by Kevin DeYoung and Greg Gilbert https://a.co/d/cgY8rah What is the Church's Mission? by Jonathan Leeman https://a.co/d/7KouYyk The Temple and the Church's Mission: A Biblical Theology of the Dwelling Place of God by Greg Beale https://a.co/d/iFojWDq Politics after Christendom: Political Theology in a Fractured World by David VanDrunen https://a.co/d/eMXznYV Living in God's Two Kingdoms: A Biblical Vision for Christianity and Culture by David VanDrunen https://a.co/d/ijfAaY1

In this new series, the team works through some central themes that have emerged as we've been talking with leaders about A Praying Church, elaborating on material Paul recently shared at an event at the The Gospel Coalition conference. "I tell the story at the beginning of the A Praying Church book and seminar. My dad, Jack Miller, had just started at Westminster Seminary faculty. He just gotten his PhD, and started as faculty at Westminster Seminary when he visited Francis Shaffer at L'Abri. He came back very surprised, because he had experienced a community ever so briefly that had prayer at the center and he'd never seen or experienced that before. Here he was an accomplished reformed scholar, even evangelist and pastor, and that was totally new to him." "Pride and self-will constantly draw us into a fellowship of his suffering -- and that's the door to prayer." "Paul ends that section of Ephesians 3 by praying a doxology. He turns and worships, 'now to him who's able to do beyond all that we can ask or even think.' Some translations say 'imagine,' and that's a great translation because your imagination takes you into worlds that are outside of parameters, outside of our thought life. One of my reflections on my dad is that after all this, he began to do daring things and dream about doing daring things. So his prayers got bigger."

About The Guest(s): Drew Hoekema is the minister of the Christian Reform Church in Platte, South Dakota. He has a Master of Divinity from Westminster Seminary in California and has studied at Calvin Seminary in Michigan. Drew has a deep appreciation for the Belgian Confession and its importance in the Reformed tradition. Summary: Drew Hoekema joins the podcast to discuss the Belgic Confession, a Reformed confession of faith written by Guido Debray. Drew provides background information on Debray and the historical context in which the confession was written. He explains that the Belgic Confession was a response to the persecution of Protestants by the Roman Catholic Church in the Lowlands of Europe. Drew also highlights the structure of the confession, with its focus on theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology. He discusses the use of the term "regeneration" in Article 24, emphasizing that faith produces regeneration and leads to sanctification. Drew also addresses the mention of Anabaptists in the confession, noting that Debray sought to separate the Reformed Church from the radical Anabaptists of the time. He explains that the confession denounces the Anabaptist view of Christ's humanity and rejects the practice of re-baptism. Drew further explores Article 36, which deals with the relationship between the church and the state. He notes that the confession has been updated over time, reflecting changes in Reformed theology and the understanding of church-state relations. Key Takeaways:The Belgic Confession was written by Guido Debray, a former Roman Catholic who converted to Protestantism and faced persecution for his beliefs.The confession was a response to the persecution of Protestants by the Roman Catholic Church in the Lowlands of Europe.The confession is structured around various theological topics, including theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology.The confession emphasizes the importance of faith in producing regeneration and leading to sanctification.The confession denounces the Anabaptist view of Christ's humanity and rejects the practice of re-baptism.The confession has been updated over time to reflect changes in Reformed theology and the understanding of church-state relations.

Rev. Dr. Vern Poythress (distinguished professor of New Testament, biblical interpretation, and systematic theology at Westminster Theological Seminary) and Dr. Ransom Poythress (Associate Professor of Biology at Houghton University) join the program today re: the upcoming "Westminster Conference on Science & Faith--The Miracle of Man." More information is available at www.discovery.org/e/westminster. Michele Tafoya, 4x Emmy winner for Outstanding Sports Personality-Sports Reporter who covered an NFL sideline reporter record 327 national primetime TV games (many for Sunday Night Football), calls in re: the craft of sports reporting and her newest endeavor, The Michele Tafoya Podcast which tackles political and cultural topics. Also, WFIL's partnership with the Voice of the Martyrs is underway! To join the circle of WFIL listeners sending God's Word to the persecuted church around the world, simply call 1 800 998-3505 or click the VOM banner at wfil.com. While we hope to send as many Bibles as possible, the main goal is to involve as many listeners as possible. 1 Bible, $6--are you in? :) By the way, we'd love to hear from you as to what your Bible means to you--a favorite verse or passage, how you use it during devotions, and the like. Email timmyd@wfil.com to share! Sports audio: Bryce Harper (Philadelphia Phillies) (source: MLB.com)Jordan Mailata (Philadelphia Eagles) (source: Philadelphia Eagles YouTube page)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor John reflects on the staying power of Westminster Seminary and the inescapably Reformed theology of the Bible.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3279340/advertisement

Pastor John reflects on the staying power of Westminster Seminary and the inescapably Reformed theology of the Bible.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/3279343/advertisement

Pastor John reflects on the staying power of Westminster Seminary and the inescapably Reformed theology of the Bible.

Digging in the Archives from October 2020 -- such an important discussion and deserves to be released again!! About The Guest(s): Dr. David VanDrunen is the Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary, California. He has a Master's Divinity degree, a law degree, and a PhD in theological ethics. He has been a pastor and has been teaching at Westminster Seminary for almost 20 years. Dr. VanDrunen has written extensively on Christianity and culture, including the topic of the two kingdoms. Summary: Dr. David VanDrunen discusses the concept of the two kingdoms in Christianity and how it relates to engaging with culture. He explains that the two kingdoms view is not the same as Augustine's two cities paradigm, but they are compatible. The two kingdoms refer to God's rule over the world in two distinct ways: his common rule of creation and preservation, and his redemptive rule through the church. Dr. VanDrunen emphasizes that Christians are called to be involved in various areas of life and to pursue excellence and love of neighbor in all that they do. However, he cautions against trying to transform all aspects of culture according to the pattern of Christ's kingdom, as this can lead to unrealistic expectations and confusion. Instead, he suggests that Christians should focus on serving God by serving their neighbors and maintaining a balanced perspective on the institutions and activities of this world. Key Takeaways:The two kingdoms view promotes a healthy balance between triumphalism and withdrawal from culture.Christians are called to pursue excellence and love of neighbor in all areas of life.The church's mission is primarily focused on preaching, teaching, and shepherding, rather than transforming culture.Pastors should be cautious about making political judgments or imposing specific strategies on their congregations.Christians can be involved in cultural activities and institutions without trying to make them uniquely Christian.Quotes:"We recognize that for Christians, we participate in both of these rules.""We recognize that these things are not the ultimate things, that these things are not where our highest allegiance lies.""We can be in the world, but not of this world.""We're serving other human beings created in God's image, and we're instruments of God in taking care of his creation.""We don't have to make it extraordinarily complicated… we're serving other human beings, and that's a way to show the kind of love that we're supposed to show."

Interested in further study of the Bible? Join us at Logos Bible Software. Sign up to attend Westminster Seminary California's Seminary for a Day here! Do you want to retrieve our Classical Protestant theology and heritage? Sign up for a degree program or individual classes at the Davenant Institute by following this link here. Please help support the show on our Patreon Page! WELCOME TO BOOK CLUB! The Rev. Dr. Lee Gatiss (PhD., University of Cambridge) has been Director of Church Society since January 2013. He is married to Kerry and they have three children. Lee read modern history at New College, Oxford, afterwards doing student work at All Soul's, Langham Place. From where he went on to read theological and pastoral studies at Oak Hill College in London. After ordination he served as Curate of St. Botolph's, Barton Seagrave, and St. Edmund's, Warkton, a Church Society Trust parish.While in London he completed a ThM at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia and then a PhD at Peterhouse and Tyndale House, Cambridge. He also runs the podcast Church Society. We want to thank Crossway for their help in setting up this interview and providing us with the necessary materials for this interview Purchase the book(s) here: The Complete Works of John Owen Have Feedback or Questions? Email us at: guiltgracepod@gmail.com Find us on Instagram: @guiltgracepod Follow us on Twitter: @guiltgracepod Find us on YouTube: Guilt Grace Gratitude Podcast Please rate and subscribe to the podcast on whatever platform you use! Looking for a Reformed Church? North American Presbyterian & Reformed Churches --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/gggpodcast/support

Melanoma, the word strikes fear into the hearer, especially when it is a diagnosis for a loved one. Al Groves, a beloved professor at Westminster Seminary and his wife, Libbie, heard these words and knew life would never be the same. In this  conversation with Sharon Betters, Libbie shares the journey that her family experienced in the year after her husband Al's diagnosis of terminal cancer. She offers her family's story as a means of coming alongside of others who are struggling with cancer, God and grief, answering such questions as: * How did you tell your children? * Did you ever hit a wall where you felt you just couldn't handle all the daily responsibilities of raising your children and caring for your husband? * Al was a gifted author, beloved professor at Westminster Seminary. Did you ever question why such a gifted man who had so much more to offer had to die? * What about lament? * How important was and is your faith? How did it make a difference in the way you viewed this diagnosis? * How did people help you?

Thank you for listening to Brown Mama Bear hosted by Shanera Williamson.  Today on the show, Shanera continues her conversation with the hosts of the award-winning podcast, Truth's Table.  Ekemini Uwan is a public theologian who received her Master of Divinity from Westminster Seminary.  Dr. Christina Edmondson is a former trauma therapist and college dean.  Together they love and seek truth and apply it to all areas of modern life.   Mentioned: The book Truth's Table: Black Women's Musings on Life, Love, and Liberation The podcast Truth's Table   Connect with Truth's Table: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter   Connect with Shanera and Brown Mama Bear: Facebook, Instagram, Website   Make sure you share Brown Mama Bear with at least 3 friends so you have someone to talk with about these things.

Thank you for listening to Brown Mama Bear hosted by Shanera Williamson.  Today on the show, Shanera welcomes the hosts of the award-winning podcast, Truth's Table.  Ekemini Uwan is a public theologian who received her Master of Divinity from Westminster Seminary.  Dr. Christina Edmondson is a former trauma therapist and college dean.  Together they love and seek truth and apply it to all areas of modern life.   Mentioned: The book Truth's Table: Black Women's Musings on Life, Love, and Liberation The podcast Truth's Table   Connect with Truth's Table: Website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter   Connect with Shanera and Brown Mama Bear: Facebook, Instagram, Website   Make sure you share Brown Mama Bear with at least 3 friends so you have someone to talk with about these things.

Canon Revisited by Dr. Michael J. Kruger.  Kruger is President and the Samuel C. Patterson Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC.  and an ordained Teaching Elder in the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA).  He earned his MDiv from Westminster Seminary in California and his PHD from University of Edinburgh in Scotland.   Originally published in 2012 by Crossway

Today on Exploring the Marketplace, Shawn Bolz & Bob Hasson interview Dr. Wayne Grudem. Wayne is Distinguished Research Professor of Theology and Biblical Studies at Phoenix Seminary in Arizona.  He is a graduate of Harvard, Westminster Seminary, and the University of Cambridge, England.  He has published over 25 books, a member of the ESV Bible translation committee, and he was the general editor of the ESV Study Bible. Tune in as Shawn, Bob & Wayne discuss where this all started for him and the God journey along the way, how Wayne demystifies bringing God into your workplace and career and how to plant your feet firmly in your faith for decisions you are believing God for.  In this fast paced world, we need to come back to the simplicity of Jesus.  Tune in!

Rev. Dr. David VanDrunen, Westminster Seminary in CaliforniaSupport the show

The Asian American (AA) church is good and beautiful, and the calling to minister in the context of an AA church is a wonderful and joyous thing! In addition, the AA church can do community, discipleship, leadership development, and mission in ways that are culturally contextualized, needed, and strategic. Therefore, the AA church ought to be embraced and celebrated! Owen serves as the Senior Pastor of Christ Central Presbyterian Church in Centreville, VA. He received his BA in Rhetoric at U.C. Berkeley and his M.Div at Westminster Seminary, CA. Before his call to serve as the Senior Pastor of Christ Central in 2012, he served as the English Ministry Pastor of New Life Mission Church in Fullerton, CA from 2000 to 2002, and then as the church-planting pastor of New Life Mission Church in Burbank, CA from 2002 to 2011. He is married to Margaret, and they have 3 children together- Abby, Caleb, and Lizzy. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/p34qwim8iPw

Dr Justin Holcomb speaks with Mike Neglia about his theological journey and ministry experience that began under the mentorship of Carl Dixon in Calvary Chapel Sarasota and he now finds himself as an Episcopal priest and theology and apologetics professor at Reformed Theological Seminary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He speaks about death metal, the book of common prayer, Law / Gospel distinctions and caring for victims of sexual assault or physical abuse. Justin is an award-winning author, professor, and priest. He has written or edited twenty books on abuse, theology, and biblical studies.Justin teaches theology and apologetics at Reformed Theological Seminary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He previously taught at the University of Virginia, Emory University, Agnes Scott College, and Westminster Seminary.Justin is an Episcopal priest and serves as the Canon for Vocations in the Diocese of Central Florida. He serves on the boards of GRACE (Godly Response to Abuse in Christian Environments), HeartSupport, and Leaders Collective. Justin and Lindsey helped co-found REST in 2009. He is a co-host for the White Horse Inn podcast and a guest co-host for the As In Heaven podcast.Justin graduated from Southeastern University in 1994 with a B.A. in Biblical Studies. In 1997, he obtained a M.A. in Theological Studies and a M.A. in Christian Thought from Reformed Theological Seminary. Justin also studied at the University of Oxford during the summer of 1996. He earned his Ph.D. from Emory University in Theological Studies with a concentration in Comparative Religious Studies.Justin and his wife, Lindsey, live in Orlando, Florida, with their two daughters.Justin wrote:God With Us: 365 Devotions on the Person and Work of ChristKnow the HereticsKnow the Creeds and CouncilsCaring For Survivors of Sexual AbuseOn the Grace of GodActs: A 12-Week StudyEcclesiastes: A 12-Week StudyWhat Do You Do For A Living?Justin and his wife, Lindsey, are authors of:God Made Babies: Helping Parents Answer the Baby QuestionGod Made Me in His Image: Helping Children Appreciate Their BodiesGod Made All of Me: A Book to Help Children Protect Their Bodies Received the ECPA Bronze Sales Award for exceeding 100,000 copies soldChildren and Trauma: Equipping Parents and CaregiversIs It My Fault?: Hope and Healing for Those Suffering Domestic ViolenceRid of My Disgrace: Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual AssaultRid of My Disgrace: Small Group Discussion GuideResources Mentioned: Rid of My Disgrace - Hope and Healing for Victims of Sexual Assault : https://www.crossway.org/books/rid-of-my-disgrace-ebook/ Is it My Fault? Hope and Healing for Those Suffering Domestic Violence. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0802410243/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=justholc-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=0802410243&linkId=47c04d3e9c499208e3634cd0cf271dcfRecommended Episodes: Preaching the Law & Preaching the Gospel - Bob Hiller : https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2020/12/29/preaching-the-law-amp-preaching-the-gospel-bob-hillar Heralding the Voice of Christ - Glen Scrivener : https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2021/5/18/heralding-the-voice-of-christ-glen-scrivener The Preacher as Hitman and Midwife - Dr. Scott Keith : https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2020/10/13/the-preacher-as-hitman-and-midwife-dr-scott-keith Preaching Hope In Darkness - Karen Mason and Scott Gibson : https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2021/1/12/preaching-hope-in-darkness-karen-mason-and-scott-gibsonJoin our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollectiveThe Expositors Collective podcast is part of the GoodLion podcast network, for more thought provoking Christian podcasts visit https://goodlion.io

On this episode I had the honor to talk with Pastor Jon Moffitt from the podcast Theocast. We talk about him and his show, as well as the sometimes-controversial topic of Lordship salvation. Please take a listen and hear his explanation of this subject, and why we must look to Christ for our salvation and not how well we follow Him. Also, I mention on this episode that I am starting at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia, PA this summer. I can really use your prayers in getting through the next few years while balancing family, work, and now school. My goal is to eventually plant reformed churches wherever God leads. This process is also a financial commitment. The seminary has granted me a matching scholarship where they match donations up to a certain amount. On the episode I may have wrongly said they match the total amount given. I did not mean to be misleading. I am asking if you would also consider partnering with me in this mission to gain proper biblical training and receive the tools to study, teach, and preach the Scriptures so many can hear the Gospel and be saved and encouraged by the Word of God. Please don't take away from your family or church giving. I have placed a link below where you can give directly to the seminary into my account. I thank you now for your prayers and support. Theocast http://theocast.org Christian Podcast Community http://christianpodcastcommunity.org Grace Reformed Church https://gracereformed.org/ Twitter @Theocast_org @jonmoffitt @DarylUpdike @WhatAreWeEvenD1 If you would like to help with seminary costs. http://dupdike.wtstuition.com  

On this episode I had the honor to talk with Pastor Jon Moffitt from the podcast Theocast. We talk about him and his show, as well as the sometimes-controversial topic of Lordship salvation. Please take a listen and hear his explanation of this subject, and why we must look to Christ for our salvation and not how well we follow Him. Also, I mention on this episode that I am starting at Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia, PA this summer. I can really use your prayers in getting through the next few years while balancing family, work, and now school. My goal is to eventually plant reformed churches wherever God leads. This process is also a financial commitment. The seminary has granted me a matching scholarship where they match donations up to a certain amount. On the episode I may have wrongly said they match the total amount given. I did not mean to be misleading. I am asking if you would also consider partnering with me in this mission to gain proper biblical training and receive the tools to study, teach, and preach the Scriptures so many can hear the Gospel and be saved and encouraged by the Word of God. Please don't take away from your family or church giving. I have placed a link below where you can give directly to the seminary into my account. I thank you now for your prayers and support. Theocast http://theocast.org Christian Podcast Community http://christianpodcastcommunity.org Grace Reformed Church https://gracereformed.org/ Twitter @Theocast_org @jonmoffitt @DarylUpdike @WhatAreWeEvenD1 If you would like to help with seminary costs. http://dupdike.wtstuition.com  

Owen was born and raised in Southern California. He received his BA in Rhetoric from the University of California, Berkeley. He then received his Masters of Divinity from Westminster Seminary, CA. Before being called to serve as the senior pastor of Christ Central Presbyterian Church in 2012, he served as the founding pastor of New Life Mission Church in Burbank, CA from 2002 to 2011. He is married with three kids. He loves to watch his kids play sports and hanging out with friends over great Korean food.Scripture Read: Genesis 15Rooted Conference

For many Christians, the law is one of the most challenging topics for their life. It's as if they feel they're walking a tightrope between legalism on the one side and licence on the other—as if they either need to perform, or else they're simply embracing a loose way of living. But careful examination of the teaching of Jesus helps us gain a richer picture of the law and its place in our lives. When we encounter the law in Christ, we see something beautiful. Today on the podcast, and in preparation for our four live events this year, we're looking carefully at how Jesus reframes our experience of God's law with David VanDrunen, the Robert B Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary in California. For a full transcript and show notes, visit https://ccl.moore.edu.au/resources/podcast-episode-073/

In this episode of Theology Applied, Dr. Joe Boot (President of the Ezra Institute) reveals the false doctrines that have caused Christians to forfeit so much ground in culture/politics. Pastor Joel Webbon and Dr. Joe Boot thoroughly explain the pitfalls of Michael Horton's Two-Kingdom Theology and Timothy Keller's Social Justice. Neither of these approaches to culture/politics are actually biblical. Dr. Boot further makes his case for proper Christian involvement in culture/politics by distinguishing the Mission of the Church from the Mission of individual Christians. Lastly, Dr. Boot answers an incredibly relevant question: Is Homosexuality/Transgenderism a “Gospel Issue”?

Audio Transcript: This media has been made available by Mosaic Boston Church. If you'd like to check out more resources, learn about Mosaic Boston and our neighborhood churches, or donate to this ministry, please visit mosaicboston.com.Would you please pray with me over the preaching of God's word? Heavenly father, please remind us that it is not possible to be incidentally a Christian, just a bit. You demand to be first or nothing, and we are not to keep you in balance with the rest of our life, but to keep you first, primary at the center, preeminent. Lord, we thank you for being merciful and gracious, slow to anger, bounding, and steadfast love and faithfulness. Keeping your steadfast love for thousands, for giving inequity and transgression for sin, and thank you that you will by no means clear the guilty unless they repent and turn to Jesus Christ and I pray this for each one of us and I pray this in Christ's name, amen. I pray that 2 Corinthians has been as much of a blessing to you as it has for me.Today, we're close closing our sermon series through 2 Corinthians. Next week we're starting our sermon series through Romans. So, I'm praying, I'm fasting. I'm preparing, I feel the weight of Romans. Romans is one of the most powerful books in all of the Bible and it's one of the most powerful books in world history. It has changed the world like very few books have, so we'll be starting that next week. The title of the sermon today, as we look at 2 Corinthians 13 is severe mercy, and the title of the sermon comes from Sheldon Vanauken's book, A Severe Mercy: A Story of Faith, Tragedy and Triumph, and the story's important because of how CS Lewis ministered to this couple and brought them to the faith, and then Sheldon wrote about it later, but it's a story of the love between Sheldon Vanauken, calls himself Van, and Jean Davis, Davy.They fell in love at 19 years old. They were both pagans and that's what they called themselves. They knew nothing of God, everything they saw, beauty in the world, everything they saw that delighted the heart, the mind, the soul, everything they saw, they just attributed to the natural realm and they loved each other as no ordinary love. They wouldn't let it be so. They even created a shining barrier to protect their love from intruders, and then they get married and they went to college, and then after college they went to grad school in Oxford. In Oxford, they met CS Lewis and with CS Lewis they met a lot of very thoughtful Christians and they were converted and they discovered that Christianity isn't compatible with this exclusivity that they promised to each other. They loved each other with a great love, but they realized that God demands a greater love than that.And, what happened is Davy started... So, Van's wife started growing her love and affection for the Lord and Van started to resent her faith. He said, "I did no, I thought, resent her for being a Christian. I resented her for acting like one, for going a church without me." He says it's practically unfaithfulness. So, while Van wrestles with his own faith, Davy contracts a virus, it destroys her liver. It led to a protracted illness, after some time she died. In the rest of the book, Van is wrestling with why would a loving God allow this to happen? Why would a loving God take his spouse? And, letters between him and CS Lewis helped him work through his faith, and in the letter, CS Lewis wrote the following. He said, "The root cause of your struggles is the fact that you've made love for a person, an idol. That's the root cause of everything, and it's killing your faith."And Lewis wrote, "You have been treated a severe mercy." And by severe mercy, he means when God deals with us harshly, just on the face of it, you look at the facts, and you're like, "You know what, that was harsh," but God does it all the time. And, God does it in order to save you from a greater severity that is to come. It's a severe mercy. It's a severe love. God does this with Moses. No, Moses, you will not see the promised land. God does it with David, no David, you will not build the temple. He does it with Jonah, severe mercy to be caught in the fish. Peter, get behind me, Satan. Paul, God just stops him and says, "You're mine." Paul had no choice in the matter. You are becoming a Christian, severe mercy could be argued.And Lewis wrote, "You have been brought to see that you were jealous of God. So from us, you've been led back to us and God, it remains to go onto God and us." And Vanauken writes toward the end, "That death, so full of suffering for us, both suffering that still overwhelmed my life was yet a severe mercy, a mercy as severe as death, a severity as merciful as love." This is the God of the Bible. If you don't understand that God often does send severe mercy for his children, for our sanctification, to strengthen us, to empower us, to cleanse us from sin, and to grow some maturity and fruitfulness, if you don't understand that, you don't understand the God of the Bible. It's everywhere. Romans 11:22, "Note then the kindness and severity of God. Severity toward those who have fallen, but God's kindness to you providing you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you too will be cut off."Those are severe words. If you reject God, there is a point where that's it, you're done and we should fear that, and we should fear coming even close to that because God will bring severe mercy. So, today we're at 2 Corinthians 13. Would you look at the text with me? 2 Corinthians 13. "This is the third time I'm coming to you. Every charge must be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses. I warned those who sinned before and all the others and I warn them now while absent as I did when present on my second visit that if I come again, I will not spare them. Since you seek proof that Craig is speaking in me, he's not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you for he was crucified in weakness, but lives by the power of God, for we also are weak in him, but in dealing with you, we will live with him by the power of God.""Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith test .yourselves, or do you not realize this about yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you? Unless indeed you fail to meet the test. I hope you'll find out that we have not failed the test, but we pray to God that you may not do wrong. Not that we may appear to have met the test, but that you may do what is right though we may seem to have failed. For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth, for we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. Your restoration is what we pray for. For this reason, I write these things while I'm away from you, that when I come I may not have to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.""Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort. Comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss and all the saints greet you. The grace of the Lord Jesus and love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." Amen. This is the reading of God's holy and infallible authoritative word. May he write these eternal truths upon our hearts. We'll just walk through the text verse by verse, four points, the frame of our time. First, live by the power of God. Second, examine yourself, is Jesus in you? Three, do nothing against the truth, everything for the truth. And finally, the final greetings. So, number one is live by the power of God. Verse one, "This is the evidence..." Excuse me. "This is the third time I'm coming to you. Every charge must be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses."Paul has written the second letter to Corinthians. He's done everything he possibly could from a pastoral perspective, inspired by the Holy Spirit. He has given them the Gospel. He's given the hard words of rebuke and warning, and now he's saying, "I'm coming and I pray that God's word will do its work and that it will lead you to repentance. If I come and the church is in order and everyone is living a repentant life in the church as members of the church, then we're going to have a wonderful time of fellowship. If not, we're going to have to put the church in order." And, here he begins to talk about church discipline, and if you don't understand church discipline and most likely it's because you haven't read the word or you've grown up in an American church, it's one or the other. Any other churches, any other colleges, they're like, "We get church discipline." Koreans get it, Russians get it, Slavs of the Ukrainians definitely get it.American churches? No, you can't discipline me. I want to be on the roles. I don't want to attend church or give or serve, but just in case this does anything and get me into heaven, I'm in, sign me up. Those are most American churches. That's not us because we love the Bible, and we actually do what the Bible says. We read it and we do it, and the Bible talks about church membership. And one of the biggest... A lot of people are like, "Give me a verse for church membership." Church discipline, Matthew 18, 1 Corinthians five, it's everywhere. The fact that Christians are to hold one another accountable, that we are in a family, and in a family when someone's not doing well, the family gets together and the family chats. That's what church membership is. If a brother sins against you, go to him and if the brother repents, you've gained your brother.And if the brother doesn't repent, now you got to bring the church in, and the whole point of church discipline is to bring a person back to a restored relationship with the Lord and with the brother and sisters with the church. That's what St. Paul here is talking about. So, if you're not a member of a church, most of you here are. If you're not a member of a church, that's the camera, you should join a church. It's in the Bible. I tell people, I don't think you're a faithful believer if you are not a member of a church. I don't. Who's keeping you accountable, your roommates? We need accountability, we need church. This is why we practice it. It's in the Holy Spirit. So, none of what's about to happen is going to make sense unless you understand that's a biblical category.We have sermons galore online. Go to the membership section. We've explained all of this. We've built the theology for it. We've done the work. We just assume it's true. So, St. Paul says, "Look, I don't want to do the church discipline part. I've already done the discipline, which is the positive discipline of telling you the truth and hopefully you get yourself in line with the truth, and if not, you repent where you're not in line with the truth and then there's order in the church." The word for evidence here, he says, "Every charge must be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses." Here he's talking about the fact that in the Old Testament, if a charge is brought against a person in the community of faith, you have to have at least two or three witnesses, and it's not just witnesses who write something. Here the word for evidence is the word stoma and stoma just means mouth.And, this is really important to understand that the charge has to be brought in person. If you have a charge against someone, you go to that person in-person and you speak to them. You look at them in the eyes and you tell them the truth and like, "Hey, you're sinning here. Here's the verse that you've transgressed. Here's the commandment that you've..." You've got to look them in the eyes. This is crucial because we live in a day and age where there's a lot of keyboard warriors and both keyboard on your computer and on your phone, just keyboard warriors, where it's like, "Church discipline off my phone." No, you got to go to the person and you got to talk to him. There's something that happens when look eye to eye, when you look someone in the eye, and when there's two or three people and you speak from your mouth, that's what's going on here.And, any charges must be brought together, and the reason why Paul does this is because he's creating order in the church. An order has to be created in an orderly way, which a lot of people don't understand today. A lot of people look at the world out there and they're like, "Everything's wrong. We're going to fix it with more chaos." That doesn't work, that's not God's way. The way that God wants to fix chaos is through a very orderly way, and this is what the Lord does. The word for charge here is a word, like if you have a word against someone, don't speak it behind their back, speak it to them one on one, first of all, and then there's the two and three witnesses. Verse two, "I warned those who sinned before and all the others and I warn them now while absent, as I did when present in my second visit, that if I come again, I will not spare them."All right, what does Paul mean here? I will not spare them. Whatever he means, it's got to be something that you want to be spared of. So, whatever he's talking about, this thing, I want to spare them. I've given them a warning, a warning, a warning, a warning, but there comes a time where if you persist in your unrepentant sin, you will not be spared. He speaks about this in 1 Corinthians 4:18-21. "Some are arrogant as though I were not coming to you, but I will come to you soon if the Lord wills and I will find out not the talk of these arrogant people, but their power. For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk, but in power. What do you wish? Shall I come to you with a rod or with love in a spirit of gentleness?"So, he's saying there's two weapons at his disposal, tools if you don't want to use the word weapon, gentleness, spirit of love and gentleness. That's the rule. That's the rule, that's how we are to pursue relationships with one another, and in particular, when it comes to a person in authority over another person, we as Christians, the general rule we operate from is this, gentleness, spirit of gentleness and love, but there's a rod here. What's he talking about with a rod? He's talking about corporal, physical punishment in the church. Most likely not, but whatever it is, it is contrasted to a spirit of gentleness. And in context, St. Paul talks about severity and not sparing, and he's talking about in the context of ecclesial authority. He is in apostle.He is one of 12. He is an apostle, and he is in a role over the church that he has planted in authority and he says, "There's a spirit of gentleness and not gentle. There's a spirit of severity." And, Paul has warned time and again that there ecclesiastical consequences for unrepentant sin, and we call that being disfellowshipped or being excommunicated. So, a person becomes a member of the church and the person begins to live in unrepentant sin. What do we do? First, we just follow Matthew 18, go to them one on one. If the person repents, then that's it. Church discipline is only for unrepentant sin. If the person does not repent, then you get the elders of the church, now you got two or three, and then you call the person to repent this again, and you go through that, and the church is praying for the person.If the person does not repent at that point as the church, we say this person is not a member of this body. This person is not walking in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We cannot say that we see the fruit of the Holy Spirit in this person's life, and we believe that membership is only for regenerated believers and regenerated believers live a repentant lifestyle. St. Paul says, "I will not spare them." And, here the word for spare, pheidomai, it's used in the following context. Acts 20:29, "I know that after my departure, fierce wolves will come in among you not sparing the flock."So Paul says, "I need to spare you from something worse." If you are living in unrepentant sin, and we leave it as is, this leads to the destruction of the church from within. A little leaven leavens the whole lump. If, the church spares unrepentant sinners, they open themselves up to not being spared by Satan and his false teachers. Romans 8:32, "He who did not spare his own son, but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?" God did not spare his son Jesus Christ, not so that we can continue living in sin, and thanks be to Jesus. We go to heaven because he died on the cross for our sins. That's not how it works. God did not spare his one and only son to redeem you from sin, to save you from sin, to free you from sin, so that you walk in a life of freedom on a daily basis following the Lord Jesus Christ.Therefore, church discipline is crucial for the purity and the witness of the church and for the power of God to pour out in the church. And, I don't think enough people talk about this. In the Old Testament, it's clear. There's this clear pattern that when there's someone in the community of faith that's living in unrepentant sin, God withholds his power. Look up the of Achan, this guy in the Old Testament. God said, "I'm calling you people of Israel, kill everything. Do not take a thing." And, Achan decide to take some stuff for himself and hid it in the tent, and then the next time they go to battle people died because of this one guy's greed, and then the guy gets stoned, he and his whole family. It's in the Bible.God hates sin. God has a blazing fury against sin, and I will tell you if you want to see the power of God in this church, and a lot of people ask, why aren't there more miracles today? Why isn't God doing more miracles and healing? He is, the question is, why isn't he doing more of it? Why isn't he doing more of it? Could it be because there are Christians in his church that are secretly living in sin and loving it. So, God calls us to repentance. This is a church discipline sermon. The discipline comes proactively, first of all. If you're living in sin, repent of it. Leave that sin, draw near to the Lord. 2 Peter 2:4, "For if God did not spare angels when they sin, but cast them into hell and committed them to change of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment."So, it's better not to be spared from church discipline than to not be spared from hell. 2 Corinthians 13:3, "Since you seek proof that Christ is speaking in me, he is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you." The charge against St. Paul was, "You're so weak. In person, you're just a weak dude." And St. Paul is like, "Well, because everything that I'm doing, it's not me, it's the Holy Spirit through me. It's the power of God through me." So they were like, "Where's your power? Where's your power? Where's your power?" And he's like, "Look at the church, look at the church, look at the church." And then here he's like, "Look, you think I'm weak? You don't think that Christ is speaking through me and in me? Just wait." That's that's his play. He says, "But watch God's powerful among you, watch."And, here what St. Paul is doing, this is fascinating, he is saying to everyone who's raised their hand against St. Paul, the anointed of God, he's saying, "Be careful. Be careful raising charges against me and see if God doesn't show up in power and rebuke you himself." That's what he's saying. Well, the question that he's preempting, the criticism he's preempting was, "How do we know that Christ is speaking through you, Paul? Who are you to judge us? Who are you to judge our church?" And St. Paul says, "Okay, watch Jesus bring power." And when the people of God gather and the power of Christ is among them, 1 Corinthians 5:4, "When you are assembled in the name of the Lord Jesus, my spirit is present with the power of the Lord Jesus."This is fascinating. Paul knows who he is. He knows his calling. He knows his integrity. He knows his resume, and when people criticize him, he didn't respond to the full force defense of himself, of his skillset, instead he lifted it up to God. He follows the pattern of Romans 12:19, "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for is written, 'Vengeance is mine. I will repay,' says the Lord." Okay, you want power? Power will come.2 Corinthians 13:4, "For he, Christ, was crucified in weakness, but lives in the power of God for we are weak in him, but in dealing with you, we will live with him by the power of God." This is very, very, very important. This is a crucial word for the church today, crucial. I just spent a week in a doctoral class at one of those powerful seminaries in the nation, at Westminster Seminary, and I had a professor. I shall not name him, but I've already let him know everything in my papers, my final papers because I'm at the point in my life where grades don't matter. What are you going to do? You're going to give me a B?He said the following. He said, "Christians should aspire to weakness." To weakness? I said, "What do you mean?" He said, "Christians should aspire to weakness in every aspect of their life. That's what the Bible teaches." I said, "That's literally not what the Bible teaches." I was like, "Why should we pursue weakness?" He said, "Because Jesus went to the cross in weakness." I was like, "Yeah, but he didn't stay there." He didn't like that part, my professor. He also didn't like the part where I asked him if he's a pacifist, which makes sense because if you're a pacifist you write that kind of theology. Thanks, Edgar. I love the guy. It's not true, man. It's not true. Jesus isn't on the cross, he's no longer weak. He did the weakness thing. He's no longer weak, he's no longer crucified. He lives, he reigns, he rules in power and in glory.Yes, we are called the weakness in that we humble ourselves completely. Lord, I am nothing. I can do nothing apart from you, nothing. That's my weakness, and that's also my strength because now I walk in the power of God, for we are weak in him, but in dealing with you, we will live with him by the power of God. Therefore, Christian, it is your duty and you're calling to live with God in power on a daily basis.You wake up and you say, "God, fill me with power. Give me the power of the Holy Spirit. I am today more than a conqueror. You have won the ultimate war, you have, you have, you have, but there's a battle today. Lord Jesus, fill me with your power." That's our duty. Matthew, 22:29, Jesus answered them, "You are wrong," talking to the Pharisees, "Because you know neither of the scriptures nor the power of God." Know the scriptures, and by doing so, you will know the power of God. Obey the scriptures, you shall know the power of God, and only by the power of God's spirit can those who are dead in sins be regenerate, resurrected to a new life.Paul is ready to exercise his power and authority to judge the unrepentant sinners in the church. One last word before I continue to point two, because we have the kids here today, and my kids are here, my daughters. They're tremendous, they're awesome. Let me just talk about love gentleness as the rule when you have authority. I'm a father, I have authority over my children. God gave me that authority, and then there's a severity part of raising children. There absolutely is, and if they did not know that there's a severity part in the repertoire of my love for them, they would not be as delightful as they are today. Have you met my daughters?They are delightful. If people meet them, they're like, "How did you do that? How did you do that? Were they born that way?" I say, "Oh no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no. They were not born that way." They never are born that way. They're born as little degenerate sinners. They need to be parented, and the severity part, scripture does teach. So, I don't care if we're in Boston, I don't care if it's 2022. I'm just going to say it, because that's where I am in my ministry if you haven't noticed, yeah, I spank my kids, just a little bit, a little spanky-spanky on the tush. I don't call it corporal punishment it sounds too like, "What are you doing, corporal?" It sounds too corporate. It's just a little spank just in the tush, just a little bit when they're a baby, just on the diaper, they got the cushioning, just a little bit, so they know that it's in their repertoire. Baby, I love you. No, you shall not play with the knife.What's more severe, let her play with the knife or a little on the tush? The flesh all of a sudden wakes up and like, "Yeah, you're right. I don't need that knife." It's true, there is in all of authority, the rule of gentleness, love, but there is a severe part everywhere. In your job, even if you have the nicest boss, he can also fire you at any point, so it's just there. That rod part is always there. That's what St. Paul is getting at. Number two is examine yourself, is Jesus in you? Here what St Paul is doing is turning the table on these false apostles, these false teachers who accused St. Paul of not even being a believer. You're not even a Christian. So St. Paul says, look, verse five, "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves, or do you not realize this about yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you? Unless indeed you failed to meet the test."The word for examine here is peirazó, and this is fascinating because word for exam or test is also the same word for tempt, peirazó. Sometimes it's used as Satan is the one that's tempting, sometimes it's used that God is the one that's testing. This is very important. Every time Satan sends a temptation, it's also a test from the Lord to see, are you going to pass the test? Are you going to reject the temptation? Are you going to get stronger? Are you going to learn something from this? And St. Paul here says, "Hey, examine yourselves, give yourself a test." So, watch yourself, in particular when the temptations come, am I in the faith? In particular when the tests from God come, but we ourselves are to test, test yourself to see whether you are in the faith.How would you pass if you gave yourself a little pop test right now, a pop exam whether you are on the faith? The question is, am I a Christian? The question is, am I a Christian? Well, if you were giving yourself a test, what would the questions be? What would the questions be? This is a very, very important exercise. If you think that you are a Christian, give yourself a test. First of all, you've got to figure out what questions need to be on that test. St. Paul only gives one. He doesn't say, here's this confession of faith, I want you to memorize it and I want you to articulate it. He doesn't say, here's Bible verse that I want you to memorize them. He doesn't say, here's some good works to do a test whether you're in the faith. He doesn't say, give X amount of finances or money to an organization.He doesn't do any of that. He says, test and examine yourself to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not realize this about yourself that Jesus Christ is in you? He's asking one question. St. Paul's, test, exam. Are you in the faith? All it says is, is Christ Jesus in you? Is Christ Jesus in you? That's the question before us. Can you answer, yes, Christ Jesus is in me? The son of God is in me by the power of the Holy Spirit, Christ is in me. Is Jesus Christ in you? The super apostles have been demanding proof and St. Paul's like, "All right, the most important proof is, is Christ in you?" If Christ is in you, well, that's verifiable proof of the fact that Paul has authority from God. And, are you a Christian? If so, you should be able to confidently say, "Yeah, Jesus Christ is in me. He is in me."I wake up and I have affections for Christ. I wake up and I want to do things for the Lord. I want to study the word. When things get hard, and when I sin, and there's temptations, all of a sudden my conscience just awakens me and says, this is wrong. Is Jesus Christ in you? Paul leaves this question up to the conscience that Jesus Christ is in the center. That's the exam. Do you live like Jesus Christ is in you? And, there should be fruit of the Holy Spirit and he says, "Unless indeed you fail to meet the test." And, that's too nice of a translation. He's like, "Oh, if Christ isn't in you, then you didn't meet the test." The word here in the Greek just means disqualified. If you do not pass this test, what hangs in the balance is not just GPA or just the letter grade, it's your eternity, your eternity, your soul hangs in the balance between heaven and hell for all of eternity.So, make sure that you are not disqualified. Make sure that you meet the test. 2 Timothy 3:8, "The word is used just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith." Titus 1:16, "They professed to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good word." That's the same word. If Christ is in you, then you should be able to point the spiritual fruit produced by God through you. That wasn't me, that was the Lord. Follow the date of your life, examine yourself to see whether your faith is genuine.And, then when you begin to examine yourself and that's Matthew seven, you start with yourself, that's the spec and the rod and all, when you begin to examine yourself, now you can begin to examine the teachers in the church. Revelation 2:12, "I know your works, your toil, your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false." So, this is a very important exercise. Do test yourself, examine yourself, ask the question, am I in the faith? Is Christ Jesus in me?It doesn't matter how long you've been a Christian, by the way. It doesn't matter how long you've been a Christian. I tell people I live like an Armenian, I might lose my salvation, I don't know. I sleep like a Calvinist. God's got me. It's all good. I study the Bible like a Baptist or a Presbyterian, I'm not sure yet. I pray like a Pentecostal, I worship as a charismatic and I do evangelism like a Jehovah's Witness. That's my that's my whole... But, we are to examine ourselves. We are to examine to see whether... Especially, church before holy communion, I don't think enough people talk about this. It's clear in scripture. When people trifle with holy communion, God sometimes kills them. That's a fact.1 Corinthians 11:27, "Whoever therefore eats of bread and drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and the blood of the Lord. Let a person examine himself then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body, eats and drinks judgment on himself. That is why so many of you are weak and ill and some have died, but if we judge ourselves truly would not be judged, but then we are judged by the Lord. We are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world." And in that text later he says, "And that's why some of you are sick, and some of you have fallen asleep, and he's talking about death.It's when believers living in sin, a seared conscience, approach the table as if God doesn't care about sin and they remember the suffering of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is what it took for God to pardon us from sin. God does not take too kindly of that. That's where severity comes in and I've seen this happen. I've seen this happen in my life in ministry. I've seen Christians who just mess with sin, mess with sin and pretend that everything's fine in their Christian life, and all of a sudden, God just takes them.So Christians, if you're wrestling with sin, wrestle it, but also win by the power of the spirit, whatever it takes. Put it to death, get accountability, share your struggles, repent of sin, turn to the Lord. Next time we partake in communion, come prepared. Verse six of 2 Corinthians 13, "I hope you'll find out that we have not failed the test." Paul says, "Examine yourself before you examine the Christian." Paul's been examined himself his whole life. So, he's not saying he's failed the test. Obviously he hasn't, he's done everything he possibly can to not disqualify himself from the race that is the Christian life and ministry. 2 Corinthians 13:7, "But we pray that God may not do wrong, not that we may appear to have met the test, but that you may do what is right, though we may seem to have failed."St. Paul says, "If the unrepentant sinners in the church repent and turn from sin, tremendous, Paul, can't wait to bring them back." He doesn't want to use his severe authority, but if they haven't, he says, "Then they have to take action." And, the lesson here is that St. Paul is willing to do the hard thing. He doesn't want to do this, he doesn't want this emotional toll, he doesn't want people to not like him, he doesn't want to say hard things. He wants to be buddy-buddy, fellowship, everything's great, but that's not loving sometimes, and sometimes you have to speak the truth and the lesson here is that spirit-filled leaders care more about what's best for the person they're leading, the person under their care, than how the person esteems them. Third is, do nothing against the truth, everything for the truth. Verse eight, "For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth." This is an incredible verse. This is this week's memory verse.This is the one, this is the memory verse. In particular, in a day and age where there's so much fake news and lies, just lies, lies, lies, lies all around us, we should have people that care about truth. Truth from holy scripture and truth in the world, we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. Do you do anything against the truth? Is there anything you do that doesn't support the truth? And, it starts with our relationship with the Lord. Jesus is the truth, and if there's any place in your life that you are not following Jesus completely, then you are not walking in the truth. You're not abiding in the truth, and when Christians are living in sin, they're not living for the truth, but against truth and Paul is coming back to reestablish the truth. In verse nine he says, "For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. Your restoration is what we pray for."That's his whole goal. The word for restoration, it's a building term, it's a construction term. It's like if you get an old house and you got it and you restore it to its original beauty, that's what he's talking about. The restoration, now we care about the restoration of the believer. That's what St. Paul says. It has to do with a process of perfecting, maturing to make someone completely adequate for something, a cause to be fully qualified. 2 Timothy 3:7, the same word for restoration is used, "That the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." Restored, perfection, complete, that's the same language. 2 Corinthians 13:10, "For this reason I write these things while I'm away from you, that when I come I may not have to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down."He says, "I don't want to tear down. God's given me authority. I want to build you up, whatever is missing in your life. I don't want to come with severe or harsh authority." That's the same word that's used Titus 1:13, "This testimony is true. Therefore, rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith." So Paul says, it's there. I want you to know that it's in the repertoire. The severity of the authority is in the repertoire, just as long we're on the same page, so that when I come to you and gentleness, you actually appreciate it. That's what he's saying. So, how does this supply at Mosaic? Well, for most of you, if you already know me, the severity's there. It takes everything from me to not be severe sometimes because you got to do the hard work, this sinful anger is there. So, the severity is there, that's the point. The point is it's there.Most of the time it's gentleness, but once in a while when someone is in a spiritual stupor... And by the way, this is how I respond if I'm in sin and someone's like, "Hey, Jan. I think you're sinning. Here's the text." I'm like, "I don't even think you really believe I'm sinning. Do you even believe? Can you just yell at me, please? Just yell at me, God." That's the way I operate. All the most influential people in my life are people that yelled at me, from my coaches to stern teachers and... But it's there, that's what St. Paul is saying. "I don't want to use it," he says, "I want to build you up." To build someone up means to assist them with the construction, the completion of their life, whatever is missing. The goal is always to build up, not to tear down.And, God sometimes does tear down and he does inflict pain, he does bring severe mercy. Sometimes people ask me like, "Pastor Jan, why is there so much pain and suffering in the world?" My response is so that people finally ask, "Hey, how could God be allowing this?" Good, we are finally talking about God. What did it take for you to finally start talking about God, a little pain and suffering. God often sends severity here, pain here, harshness here to wake us up and see as the Lord says, God's megaphone to a deaf world. Isaiah 19:22, "The Lord will strike Egypt, striking and healing, and they will have return to the Lord and he will listen to their pleas for mercy and heal them." How often does this happen? God strikes, God brings pain, inflicts pain, so finally people cry out, "God, please heal us." And, he does.And, ultimately he wants to heal us for eternity and that's through Jesus Christ. Point four is the final greeting and this is verses 11-14. Paul finishes the letter with a final charge consisting of five imperatives into promise. Beginning with verse 11, "Finally, brothers, rejoice, aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace and the God of love and peace will be with you." What a text. And then he says, "Greet one another with a holy kiss." All the saints greet you with a holy kiss. Now we got to do something with this because we live in a place where nobody wants to shake hands, holy handshake, no. The holy fist bump, can you do that, a holy elbow tap, a holy something? What's he talking about? What's going on here? Well, what's going on in the Greco-Roman world, you were not allowed to call anyone a brother or sister unless they were legally your brother and sister.So, Christians in public could not be like, "Hey, brother," because then they'd get arrested and killed. So, what they did was they created this language of like, "We're going to show affection in public with a holy kiss that we're brother and sister, we're siblings." That's the history behind that. The thought behind this is that we as Christians, we are brothers and sisters. We are brothers and sisters. So, when people try to treat church as just some corporate gathering where you you come in, you hear a lecture and nobody talk to me please, and then you bounce, and just to do it again a month later, if that's the extent of your Christian life, then you don't understand one of the most beautiful things about Christianity, is the family aspect. And when you really love another Christian and you haven't seen them in a long time, there's something inside where you want to show affection physically and they back then, they did a holy kiss. Am I saying to bring it back?I'm saying they did it. What I'm saying is they did it. What I'm also saying is it was holy. So, anyone that's a pervert and is like, "Ooh, bringing back a kiss." It was a holy kiss. I submit to you, let's start with deepening the relationship first, and then we'll get to showing the affection, okay? A lot of people are like... No, we just met. You haven't gone through the membership process yet. We just met, dude.So, we're working through that. 2 Corinthians 13:14, "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." If you have this, you have everything. Jesus Christ, our Lord procured the grace, God, the father, in love sends his son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit is the one that gives us the fellowship. He is the council of the comforter. He is the helper. He is the one that binds our souls together. We together have fellowship when we are bound by the Holy Spirit on the same mission and we are on the same ship, so to speak. In our membership meeting, we talk about the fact that church is a battleship, it's not a cruise ship. When you're on a battleship serving brothers and sisters, you experience the deepest level of fellowship that you will ever experience, thanks to the Holy Spirit.We started with Sheldon Vanauken's book, A Severe Mercy. I'll just finish with a quote from there, "Though I wouldn't have admitted it, even to myself, I didn't want God aboard." This is when his wife became a fervent believer and he was wrestling with his own faith. He said, "I didn't want God aboard. He was too heavy. I wanted him approving from a considerable distance. I didn't want to be thinking of him. I wanted to be free like a gypsy. I wanted life itself, the color and fire and loveliness of life. And Christ now and then, like a loved poem I could read when I wanted to, I didn't want us to be swallowed up in God. I wanted holidays from the school of Christ." I wonder, are you ever tempted to treat God like this? Whenever you are, I just want you to remember that it's a good thing that God did not treat us like this, that God didn't just give us just a little bit, just to have a little bit of relation.God, went all in because that's what it took to save us from our sin. There's an infinite chasm between us and God. Every sin, every transgression leads to eternal separation from God, and there's only one way for that separation to be bridged, for us to be reconciled with God, and that's through the severe decree of God the father. God the father gives a severe decree to his son Jesus Christ. Jesus, my son, my beloved son, whom I'm well pleased. I'm sending you on a mission to live that perfect life that not one of these people could have lived, and then to die a death atoning for the sins of all the elect. I'm calling you to be crucified, and that's not even the worst part. The most severe part is as Jesus is being crucified, physical anguish, he's experiencing the wrath of God being poured out on him.Severity, that's God's harshness. It's also his mercy. That's the only way for us to be saved from our sin. Jesus on the cross submits to God the father. He dies, he's buried, he's resurrected, and now for you to become a Christian, for me to become a Christian, for us to have our sins forgiven, come to the Lord, submit to him, submit your life to him, submit to Jesus for your whole life. Not just a little bit, submit your whole life to Jesus Christ. If you're a Christian, submit your whole life to Jesus Christ. If the not, I am warning you, he will send severe mercy. I'm trying to prevent you from that. Why? Because that's how much he loves you. With that said, would you please pray with me?Heavenly father, we thank you for this time and the holy word. We thank you for this rich text. Holy God, we repent of all sin. We turn from all sin, from folly, from pride, from self-righteousness, from self-sufficiency. We are nothing apart from you and we pray Holy Spirit, continue to empower us, each one of us. Continue to cleanse this church from any sin, continue to cleanse our membership from any sin, so that we can be a church that it is holy, zealous, on fire for you. And I pray through us, Holy Spirit, do mighty works here in this church and amongst this community, in this city, in this state, and beyond. And, we thank you for all of this in advance. We pray this in Christ's name, amen.

WordMp3 Voices, hosted by Gregg Strawbridge, brings you voices from the past that effect the present. WordMp3.com is an online audio library of Christian world and life view resources. Our voice today is that of Cornelius Van Til (1895-1987), influential thinker, theologian, pastor, and founding faculty member of Westminster Seminary.

Transitions, Loss, Succession Planning, New Opportunities, Mental Health In The Church & Entrepreneurship...  In this episode, our special guest, Paul Keisling tackles all of these topics, and then some!  Paul Keisling has served on a number of nonprofit boards and was a founding board member of Chariots for Hope- an organization that oversees Children's Homes across the country of Kenya. He holds a BA in Behavioral Science from Messiah College, a Master of Social Work from Temple University, studied theology and counseling at Westminster Seminary and is a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner. He is a frequent presenter on mental health topics, program development, and Servant Leadership.  This episode is packed FULL of wisdom & strategies brought in a sage-like manner by Paul Keisling.  Listen In.Check out The Center Consulting Group,  Where Paul Serves as a Senior ConsultantGet Our FREE Training On How To Find Profitable Amazon FBA ProductsFind me on Instagram @iamjustinbellQuestions, Feedback & Hello's: Email Me  at justin@faithplusbiz.com

Train up a child in the way in which the child should go. What kind of a training as a child did you have? Were you trained with a quality education, a good school and high school, and college or university, were you? You learn the classics, the three R's, reading, writing and arithmetic? Were you trained in American history, Western civilization, geometry and chemistry, all the things which are the fundamental basic, necessary for life studies?  I was. There was discipline, real discipline. In those good old days, the rod was used and never spared so that the child would not be spoiled. There were standards, high but fair. You went to the next phase of your life prepared. A degree really meant something. Faculty from kindergarten to graduate school were trained, committed, genuinely educated themselves and would teach and grade a student on realities only, real performance. They were dedicated to their work product. So much of that qualitative education seems long lost today in a world of BLACK LIVES MATTER, THE 1619 PROJECT AND CRITICAL RACE THEORY, does it not? I am eternally grateful that I received a good, qualitative, real education in all things secular and Christian, and I do hope and pray that you did as well. By the way, your children or grandchildren: have they received an education like that, have they?  Perhaps the best education is that which is a Christian education which fully educates and allows the graduate to:          STAND STRONG!         FIGHT THE FIGHT OF CHRISTIAN FAITH         FASTENED WITH THE BELT OF TRUTH. And of course that life – sustaining belt is Christianity, producing a graduate who enters society with a deep, real, loving relationship with Jesus Christ. That kind of education, REAL CHRISTIAN EDUCATION is mocked, frowned upon, ignored with every attempt to eliminate it. So many so called Christian universities and colleges have compromised, given into the rabid secularism of our day. For some reason, many have become WOKE, watering down and reinterpreting the precious BIBLE, THE BELT OF TRUTH and for them Christian Education is not what it used to be. That was of course education BIBLICALLY BASED and unashamedly so. A graduate was a real believer, ready to live and work in society as sons and daughters of the Living God. Today, there are less such Christian educational institutions and consequently less young graduates ready to live and defend the Christian faith. That same Bible, that BELT OF TRUTH tells us to:          STUDY TO SHOW OURSELVES APPROVED          RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH         WORK MEN AND WOMEN WHO NEED NOT BE ASHAMED OF THEIR FAITH. Those truly Christian are anxious to testify to and defend their faith, to show themselves as fully intellectually capable, ready apologetically or otherwise to protect and defend their precious faith. They have studied and CONTINUE TO STUDY the inspired word of God so that they can RIGHTLY DIVIDE, that is interpret and understand the truth of scriptures, intellectually formulate them and communicate them to the world. In many cases, much of that is lost as so much of Christian education goes the secular way. Those truths start with the 39 Books of the Old Testament and the first and greatest commandment therein:          THOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD THY GOD         WITH ALL THY HEART, SOUL, MIND AND STRENGTH          AND THY NEIGHBOR AS THYSELF.  There it is, the most powerful word in all of scripture, Old and New Testaments:           LOVE. Unfortunately, as hate builds on the secular side, little of that biblical love, THE BELT OF TRUTH is taught and learned. As a result, there is little respect for the biblical admonition that:          THE FEAR OF THE LORD          IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE. So that, standing before the CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE, we stand in awe, and amazement, and lovingly so, with the deepest possible human respect for this God of Wonder. Gone from education is so much of that amazement, respect and LOVE in this radical, woke, progressive and angrily secular day and age in which we live. Mankind, to his and her everlasting detriment has replaced the great God Jehovah, the father of our Lord Jesus Christ with:          HIMSELF AND HERSELF!  J. Gresham Machen, a Christian apologist, theologian and educator, a highly respected Christian student and President of theological seminary Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia was deeply concerned with Christian Education. Machen, appalled at the growth of ignorance in the church said the following: “If (Christian ignorance) must be remedied primarily by the renewal of Christian Education in the FAMILY. Otherwise, people cannot know what Christianity really is.” And there, my fellow Christians is the first principle, the key to Christian Education. That is, the training up of the child in the:          HOME. When you decide to become a parent, it is your responsibility, your Christian duty to provide for that child a:          CHRISTIAN HOME. That home, scriptures clearly state must have a man, a biological male, a loving husband and father provider and a Christian woman, loving, educated and capable in the things of the Lord as the head of that HOME. That Christian home should be centered upon the:          LORD JESUS CHRIST. Without that, the radical, aggressive forces of secularism have an unbelievable advantage as the child grows. I thank God I was fortunate enough to come from such an environment and family, where THE BELT OF TRUTH, the Christ was first and foremost. Every human being has intellectual and spiritual difficulties, and doubts, and without that Christian foundation, life can be so difficult, problematic and uncertain. The home where Christ lives, where the Christian heart prevails is absolutely indispensable. If you are a parent, again, scriptures clearly state that your first priority, your DUTY is to train up that child in the way in which he or she should go in the nurture and admonition of Jesus Christ.  In the year 1972, things in education began to change. There came in that year:          TITLE IX – CIVIL RIGHTS.  That legislation banned discrimination of any kind, primarily sex–based discrimination, some of which was contrary to Christian faith. But, there was an EXEMPTION provided which allowed Christian colleges which operate in accordance with the principles of their faith to continue doing so even if their policies and practices conflicted with Title IX. Without that, faith based educational institutions could not receive any federal funding, whether for the college or the student which could well be the financial ruination of those good institutions. That exemption allowed good universities like Cedarville to operate according to Christian principles. Cedarville college, its President Thomas White boldly states, continues to have separate resident halls for male and female, men's restrooms can only be used by biological males and women's restrooms can only be used by biological females, there can be no same sex displays of affection on campus and sexual activity outside of heterosexual marriage is forbidden including the use of pornography. White goes on to say that this aggressive Christian stand by the university must be agreed to by its staff and faculty and abide by the principles laid out in the Bible and the Christ of Glory. President Thomas White of Cedarville college goes on to state that: “Years of careless and casual hiring has led some schools to experience internal rebellion (rebellious faculty) against these principles.” In short, these more progressive so called Christian faculty members have become WOKE and do not teach or believe the fundamental tenets of Christianity as of old. Cedarville university is willing to run the risk of even the loss of federal funding including grants to students rather than compromise any part of their mission statement or faith. Good for you President White and Cedarville, good for you and we congratulate you on your aggressive Christian stand. Would that more so called Christian colleges and universities would be like you.  And then there is President Jerry C. Davis, President of COLLEGE OF THE OZARKS, a college which The Wall Street Journal dubbed:          HARD WORK U.  Here the words of President Davis: “We (College of the Ozarks) offer a distinctively Christian education to students with financial need. All students work on campus to defray the cost of their education, graduating debt free!” Davis indicates that the college has a deep and rich historic Christian commitment, guided by a very consistent and uncompromising biblical world view. The college dares to state that human sexuality is a gift from God not to be changed or biologically ignored by mankind. It states unabashedly that there is nothing else in marriage but a strong heterosexual relationship, with sex assigned at birth no matter how the mission statements of the college are challenged, President Davis states boldly:          “WE WILL NOT BACK DOWN!” One of the few remaining Christian colleges and universities with backbone and no backdown. The college presents seminars and courses on the significant issues and questions of the day including Critical Race Theory, the LGBTQ agenda, all things Woke and more. The prospective student knows up front what the college stands for, its mission statement and makes a decision to attend or not on the basis thereof. As a true Christian college offering truly biblical and Christ based education, it makes no apologies for its beliefs and it will not backdown or compromise, one of the remaining few. And then there is Columbia International University. This good university has a ten-point mission statement which is most reassuring.  The university confirms its uncompromising commitment to “teach biblical truth.”  It is called to hire Godly faculty, set apart for God's service. Columbia International University teaches God's design of humanity as male and female (biological). It now begins the arduous task of developing alternative revenue streams for funding and student loans, anticipating the possibility that government will restrict religious liberty especially in Christian education. It is committed to growing the scholarship fund so that it can have finances in reserve should the government cut off current funding. It seeks to cultivate donors who will support such education from a Christian worldview. How reassuring to know that Columbia International University is one of the several uncompromising, biblically based, strong Christian education institutions yet functioning in our beloved America. And then there is SOUTHERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY and its President R. Albert Mohler Jr. Mohler was elected President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary some 30 years ago. The institution was large, well respected and in the words of Mohler “very liberal.” He stated emphatically that the Seminary: “Was wildly out of step with the churches of the Southern Baptist Convention, and it had been shifting to the left for decades.” It was his God given mission to change that.  Mohler mobilized the conservative churches of the Southern Baptist Convention to recapture and redirect that good Seminary and “pull them back to conservative biblical doctrine” where they once belonged. Mohler boldly and aggressively adopts for this good Seminary the statement of the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 6:14:          STAND THEREFORE HAVING FASTENED ON THE BELT OF TRUTH. Family Research Council is one good organization with which you should be familiar. It is a Christian based, strongly legal organization which exists to preserve, protect and defend Christian and American values. Meg Kilganno is senior fellow for Education Studies at FRC. She reminds us that the world turns WOKE which world view sweeps across American colleges and universities and which will produce the next generation of teachers, principals and administrators. She identifies the following national organizations that have for so long injected progressive ideology in classrooms: National Education Association (NEA) American Federation of Teachers (AFT)National Association of School Boards (NASB)Chiefs for Change Southern Poverty Law Center The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)  among others. They are intent on having all education, public, private, charter, parochial, completely dominated by the new progressive thinking, including Critical Race Theory, the LGTBQ agenda, the deconstruction of American history and Western civilization, the 1619 Project and so much more. There is also the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and she rather sardonically states:          “Things go from Woke to worse.” Christians, she says, must oppose these destructive ideologies. Gender identity, for example, posits that biological sex is a “social construct” and that gender is an inherent sense of the “true self.” These radical ideas subvert and reject the Christian view that every human is biologically male or female and that cannot be changed. Adopting all such WOKE assertions results in an aggressive attack against anything Christian and targets Christian education at any level as the enemy to be eradicated and eliminated. So that, in Christian education, it raises the question:          WHO SHALL STAND? That is, which universities and colleges, and high schools for that matter, will not compromise and will stand true to Christian convictions and true and real Christian education in every way. We believers must stand, and support, and protect and defend all such educational institutions who stand for a real Christian, biblically based education no matter the cost. The fight is on and we God's people must:          FIGHT THE FIGHT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION. Start in the home. Father and mother, husband and wife, son and daughter, male and female. We must emphasize Christian principles with regard to sexuality, true biological sexual orientation, the sanctity of heterosexual marriage, one man and one woman, and above all, a total life, and world view, and educational principles which are based upon and total respective of:          THE BIBLE. Make sure, no matter the cost, that you, your children and grandchildren get the most important thing in life:          A CHRISTIAN EDUCATION. If that kind of training exists in the home and in all education, that is the real hope for mankind. Let us be proud of being:          UNWOKE. WOKE IS WRONG. It will, if victorious, end so much of the Christian Church. It will radically change America and only for the worse. We will in the words of Meg Kilganno, go from:          WOKE TO WORSE. Stand tall my fellow Christians in the strength and love of Jesus Christ. It is the only hope for Christian education, for America, for families and especially children and for YOU. When all else fails, remember the words of our precious Lord Jesus Christ:          I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. No man or woman comes unto the father but by me!  And that in sum is the bottom line mission statement of every true, real and committed CHRISTIAN EDUCATION INSTITUTION. 

Train up a child in the way in which the child should go. What kind of a training as a child did you have? Were you trained with a quality education, a good school and high school, and college or university, were you? You learn the classics, the three R's, reading, writing and arithmetic? Were you trained in American history, Western civilization, geometry and chemistry, all the things which are the fundamental basic, necessary for life studies?  I was. There was discipline, real discipline. In those good old days, the rod was used and never spared so that the child would not be spoiled. There were standards, high but fair. You went to the next phase of your life prepared. A degree really meant something. Faculty from kindergarten to graduate school were trained, committed, genuinely educated themselves and would teach and grade a student on realities only, real performance. They were dedicated to their work product. So much of that qualitative education seems long lost today in a world of BLACK LIVES MATTER, THE 1619 PROJECT AND CRITICAL RACE THEORY, does it not? I am eternally grateful that I received a good, qualitative, real education in all things secular and Christian, and I do hope and pray that you did as well. By the way, your children or grandchildren: have they received an education like that, have they?  Perhaps the best education is that which is a Christian education which fully educates and allows the graduate to:          STAND STRONG!         FIGHT THE FIGHT OF CHRISTIAN FAITH         FASTENED WITH THE BELT OF TRUTH. And of course that life – sustaining belt is Christianity, producing a graduate who enters society with a deep, real, loving relationship with Jesus Christ. That kind of education, REAL CHRISTIAN EDUCATION is mocked, frowned upon, ignored with every attempt to eliminate it. So many so called Christian universities and colleges have compromised, given into the rabid secularism of our day. For some reason, many have become WOKE, watering down and reinterpreting the precious BIBLE, THE BELT OF TRUTH and for them Christian Education is not what it used to be. That was of course education BIBLICALLY BASED and unashamedly so. A graduate was a real believer, ready to live and work in society as sons and daughters of the Living God. Today, there are less such Christian educational institutions and consequently less young graduates ready to live and defend the Christian faith. That same Bible, that BELT OF TRUTH tells us to:          STUDY TO SHOW OURSELVES APPROVED          RIGHTLY DIVIDING THE WORD OF TRUTH         WORK MEN AND WOMEN WHO NEED NOT BE ASHAMED OF THEIR FAITH. Those truly Christian are anxious to testify to and defend their faith, to show themselves as fully intellectually capable, ready apologetically or otherwise to protect and defend their precious faith. They have studied and CONTINUE TO STUDY the inspired word of God so that they can RIGHTLY DIVIDE, that is interpret and understand the truth of scriptures, intellectually formulate them and communicate them to the world. In many cases, much of that is lost as so much of Christian education goes the secular way. Those truths start with the 39 Books of the Old Testament and the first and greatest commandment therein:          THOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD THY GOD         WITH ALL THY HEART, SOUL, MIND AND STRENGTH          AND THY NEIGHBOR AS THYSELF.  There it is, the most powerful word in all of scripture, Old and New Testaments:           LOVE. Unfortunately, as hate builds on the secular side, little of that biblical love, THE BELT OF TRUTH is taught and learned. As a result, there is little respect for the biblical admonition that:          THE FEAR OF THE LORD          IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE. So that, standing before the CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE, we stand in awe, and amazement, and lovingly so, with the deepest possible human respect for this God of Wonder. Gone from education is so much of that amazement, respect and LOVE in this radical, woke, progressive and angrily secular day and age in which we live. Mankind, to his and her everlasting detriment has replaced the great God Jehovah, the father of our Lord Jesus Christ with:          HIMSELF AND HERSELF!  J. Gresham Machen, a Christian apologist, theologian and educator, a highly respected Christian student and President of theological seminary Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia was deeply concerned with Christian Education. Machen, appalled at the growth of ignorance in the church said the following: “If (Christian ignorance) must be remedied primarily by the renewal of Christian Education in the FAMILY. Otherwise, people cannot know what Christianity really is.” And there, my fellow Christians is the first principle, the key to Christian Education. That is, the training up of the child in the:          HOME. When you decide to become a parent, it is your responsibility, your Christian duty to provide for that child a:          CHRISTIAN HOME. That home, scriptures clearly state must have a man, a biological male, a loving husband and father provider and a Christian woman, loving, educated and capable in the things of the Lord as the head of that HOME. That Christian home should be centered upon the:          LORD JESUS CHRIST. Without that, the radical, aggressive forces of secularism have an unbelievable advantage as the child grows. I thank God I was fortunate enough to come from such an environment and family, where THE BELT OF TRUTH, the Christ was first and foremost. Every human being has intellectual and spiritual difficulties, and doubts, and without that Christian foundation, life can be so difficult, problematic and uncertain. The home where Christ lives, where the Christian heart prevails is absolutely indispensable. If you are a parent, again, scriptures clearly state that your first priority, your DUTY is to train up that child in the way in which he or she should go in the nurture and admonition of Jesus Christ.  In the year 1972, things in education began to change. There came in that year:          TITLE IX – CIVIL RIGHTS.  That legislation banned discrimination of any kind, primarily sex–based discrimination, some of which was contrary to Christian faith. But, there was an EXEMPTION provided which allowed Christian colleges which operate in accordance with the principles of their faith to continue doing so even if their policies and practices conflicted with Title IX. Without that, faith based educational institutions could not receive any federal funding, whether for the college or the student which could well be the financial ruination of those good institutions. That exemption allowed good universities like Cedarville to operate according to Christian principles. Cedarville college, its President Thomas White boldly states, continues to have separate resident halls for male and female, men's restrooms can only be used by biological males and women's restrooms can only be used by biological females, there can be no same sex displays of affection on campus and sexual activity outside of heterosexual marriage is forbidden including the use of pornography. White goes on to say that this aggressive Christian stand by the university must be agreed to by its staff and faculty and abide by the principles laid out in the Bible and the Christ of Glory. President Thomas White of Cedarville college goes on to state that: “Years of careless and casual hiring has led some schools to experience internal rebellion (rebellious faculty) against these principles.” In short, these more progressive so called Christian faculty members have become WOKE and do not teach or believe the fundamental tenets of Christianity as of old. Cedarville university is willing to run the risk of even the loss of federal funding including grants to students rather than compromise any part of their mission statement or faith. Good for you President White and Cedarville, good for you and we congratulate you on your aggressive Christian stand. Would that more so called Christian colleges and universities would be like you.  And then there is President Jerry C. Davis, President of COLLEGE OF THE OZARKS, a college which The Wall Street Journal dubbed:          HARD WORK U.  Here the words of President Davis: “We (College of the Ozarks) offer a distinctively Christian education to students with financial need. All students work on campus to defray the cost of their education, graduating debt free!” Davis indicates that the college has a deep and rich historic Christian commitment, guided by a very consistent and uncompromising biblical world view. The college dares to state that human sexuality is a gift from God not to be changed or biologically ignored by mankind. It states unabashedly that there is nothing else in marriage but a strong heterosexual relationship, with sex assigned at birth no matter how the mission statements of the college are challenged, President Davis states boldly:          “WE WILL NOT BACK DOWN!” One of the few remaining Christian colleges and universities with backbone and no backdown. The college presents seminars and courses on the significant issues and questions of the day including Critical Race Theory, the LGBTQ agenda, all things Woke and more. The prospective student knows up front what the college stands for, its mission statement and makes a decision to attend or not on the basis thereof. As a true Christian college offering truly biblical and Christ based education, it makes no apologies for its beliefs and it will not backdown or compromise, one of the remaining few. And then there is Columbia International University. This good university has a ten-point mission statement which is most reassuring.  The university confirms its uncompromising commitment to “teach biblical truth.”  It is called to hire Godly faculty, set apart for God's service. Columbia International University teaches God's design of humanity as male and female (biological). It now begins the arduous task of developing alternative revenue streams for funding and student loans, anticipating the possibility that government will restrict religious liberty especially in Christian education. It is committed to growing the scholarship fund so that it can have finances in reserve should the government cut off current funding. It seeks to cultivate donors who will support such education from a Christian worldview. How reassuring to know that Columbia International University is one of the several uncompromising, biblically based, strong Christian education institutions yet functioning in our beloved America. And then there is SOUTHERN BAPTIST THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY and its President R. Albert Mohler Jr. Mohler was elected President of Southern Baptist Theological Seminary some 30 years ago. The institution was large, well respected and in the words of Mohler “very liberal.” He stated emphatically that the Seminary: “Was wildly out of step with the churches of the Southern Baptist Convention, and it had been shifting to the left for decades.” It was his God given mission to change that.  Mohler mobilized the conservative churches of the Southern Baptist Convention to recapture and redirect that good Seminary and “pull them back to conservative biblical doctrine” where they once belonged. Mohler boldly and aggressively adopts for this good Seminary the statement of the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 6:14:          STAND THEREFORE HAVING FASTENED ON THE BELT OF TRUTH. Family Research Council is one good organization with which you should be familiar. It is a Christian based, strongly legal organization which exists to preserve, protect and defend Christian and American values. Meg Kilganno is senior fellow for Education Studies at FRC. She reminds us that the world turns WOKE which world view sweeps across American colleges and universities and which will produce the next generation of teachers, principals and administrators. She identifies the following national organizations that have for so long injected progressive ideology in classrooms: National Education Association (NEA) American Federation of Teachers (AFT)National Association of School Boards (NASB)Chiefs for Change Southern Poverty Law Center The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)  among others. They are intent on having all education, public, private, charter, parochial, completely dominated by the new progressive thinking, including Critical Race Theory, the LGTBQ agenda, the deconstruction of American history and Western civilization, the 1619 Project and so much more. There is also the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and she rather sardonically states:          “Things go from Woke to worse.” Christians, she says, must oppose these destructive ideologies. Gender identity, for example, posits that biological sex is a “social construct” and that gender is an inherent sense of the “true self.” These radical ideas subvert and reject the Christian view that every human is biologically male or female and that cannot be changed. Adopting all such WOKE assertions results in an aggressive attack against anything Christian and targets Christian education at any level as the enemy to be eradicated and eliminated. So that, in Christian education, it raises the question:          WHO SHALL STAND? That is, which universities and colleges, and high schools for that matter, will not compromise and will stand true to Christian convictions and true and real Christian education in every way. We believers must stand, and support, and protect and defend all such educational institutions who stand for a real Christian, biblically based education no matter the cost. The fight is on and we God's people must:          FIGHT THE FIGHT OF CHRISTIAN EDUCATION. Start in the home. Father and mother, husband and wife, son and daughter, male and female. We must emphasize Christian principles with regard to sexuality, true biological sexual orientation, the sanctity of heterosexual marriage, one man and one woman, and above all, a total life, and world view, and educational principles which are based upon and total respective of:          THE BIBLE. Make sure, no matter the cost, that you, your children and grandchildren get the most important thing in life:          A CHRISTIAN EDUCATION. If that kind of training exists in the home and in all education, that is the real hope for mankind. Let us be proud of being:          UNWOKE. WOKE IS WRONG. It will, if victorious, end so much of the Christian Church. It will radically change America and only for the worse. We will in the words of Meg Kilganno, go from:          WOKE TO WORSE. Stand tall my fellow Christians in the strength and love of Jesus Christ. It is the only hope for Christian education, for America, for families and especially children and for YOU. When all else fails, remember the words of our precious Lord Jesus Christ:          I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. No man or woman comes unto the father but by me!  And that in sum is the bottom line mission statement of every true, real and committed CHRISTIAN EDUCATION INSTITUTION. 

The world is getting crazy. How do we raise a generation that refuses to compromise in matters of faith, especially in a world that rejects, even scorns, anyone who believes in absolute truth?  Like walking a roofline, how do we balance being in the world but not of it?  On one side, a person can easily compromise and blindly adopt the latest “correct thinking” and fall into the ditch of becoming a chameleon changing with their environment. On the other side of the roof, it is easy for a person to slide into isolation in a holy huddle, overly cautious and afraid of the world.  A person is only surrounded by those who think and act like them.  Dick Keyes has spent five decades as part of Francis Schaeffer's L'Abri Fellowship, helping people navigate this balance. Ultimately, he urges them to live confidently and boldly as followers of Christ using what Schaeffer called “True Truth,” which he describes as “the mark of the Christian a love lived out, despite the wild world around us." It's for sure something we should strive for each day as classical Christian educators and parents but for sure not easy… join us for this conversation!BIOGRAPHYDick Keyes is director emeritus of L'Abri Fellowship in Southborough, Massachusetts, where he has worked with his wife and family since 1979. He holds a B.A. in History from Harvard University and an M.Div. from Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia.Dick has worked for L'Abri Fellowship in Switzerland and England, where he also served as a pastor in the International Presbyterian Church in London for eight years. He has been an adjunct professor at Gordon Conwell Seminary and Westminster Theological Seminary.Dick Keyes (B.A. Harvard University, M. Div. Westminster Seminary) is the director of L'Abri Fellowship in Southborough, MA. He is the author of Beyond Identity, True Heroism, and Chameleon Christianity and several book chapters in anthologies such as Finding God at Harvard and The New Dictionary of Christian Apologetics. He has lectured widely on the Christian faith and modern culture in the United States, Europe, and Korea.You can always download the English L'Abri Podcast. Check it out today!