Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love

this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony dive into the profound subject of private prayer and its essential role in the Christian life. They begin by emphasizing the privilege of prayer, not merely as a duty but as a remarkable invitation to approach the throne of grace through the mediation of Christ. Drawing on Scripture and the Westminster Catechism, the hosts explore prayer as an act of faith and a demonstration of dependence on God, challenging listeners to view prayer as both a sacred sacrifice and a vital spiritual discipline. The conversation transitions into practical advice, including how to cultivate a habit of prayer. Tony and Jesse reference "Atomic Habits" by James Clear to encourage listeners to start small, suggesting even two minutes of daily prayer as a manageable and impactful starting point. They highlight the transformative power of consistency in prayer, underscoring the importance of building a rhythm of private communion with God. Finally, the hosts set the stage for a deeper exploration of the Lord's Prayer in future episodes. They reflect on Christ's instruction to His disciples and how this model prayer teaches us about the nature of true prayer, the petitions we bring before God, and the reverence with which we approach Him. With humor, practical insights, and theological depth, this episode serves as both an encouragement and a challenge to listeners to deepen their prayer lives. Key Points: Prayer as a Sacrifice and Act of Faith: Prayer is not just communication but a sacred offering of our desires to God, demonstrating faith and dependence on Him. The Privilege of Private Prayer: Private prayer offers a unique opportunity to commune with God in a way that reflects Christ's own practice and teaches us reverence. Cultivating a Prayer Habit: Start small, with even two minutes a day, to build consistency and deepen your practice of prayer over time. The Spirit's Role in Prayer: The Holy Spirit intercedes and perfects our prayers, ensuring they are acceptable before God. Looking Ahead to the Lord's Prayer: The Lord's Prayer provides a model for understanding the purpose and structure of prayer, which will be explored in future episodes. Questions for Reflection: How does understanding prayer as a sacrifice change your perspective on its importance in your daily life? What steps can you take this week to begin or deepen your habit of private prayer? How can reflecting on Christ's example of prayer encourage you to approach God with greater reverence and dependence?

The brothers hit the road and wrap up their thoughts on the Ten Words.

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony dive into the tenth commandment, "You shall not covet," exploring its profound implications for Christian ethics and sanctification. They discuss how covetousness, described by the Puritan Thomas Watson as the "mother sin," often serves as the gateway to other sins such as theft, adultery, and deceit. The discussion emphasizes that the tenth commandment is not merely about outward behavior but rather addresses the inward desires and motivations of the heart. This inward focus ties directly to how Christians are called to love their neighbors fully and seek their good. The hosts also highlight how the tenth commandment serves as the culmination of the Decalogue, uniting the external actions prohibited in the earlier commandments with the internal heart attitude required of God's people. They unpack the concept that while desiring good things is not inherently sinful, covetousness becomes a problem when it seeks personal gain at the expense of others. Drawing insights from the Westminster Catechism and biblical examples, they explore how contentment and a proper understanding of God's provision are central to obeying this commandment. Throughout the episode, Jesse and Tony provide practical applications of the tenth commandment, encouraging listeners to examine their own hearts. They stress the importance of aligning desires with God's will and pursuing contentment in all circumstances. The episode concludes with a call to reflect on how the tenth commandment reveals the broader spiritual condition of the human heart and points believers to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the law. Key Points: Covetousness as the "Mother Sin": Covetousness is described as the root of many other sins, such as theft, murder, and adultery, making it essential to address the desires of the heart. The Tenth Commandment and Contentment: The commandment calls believers to a heart of contentment, emphasizing the importance of being satisfied with God's provision while desiring the good of others. The Inward Focus of God's Law: The tenth commandment illustrates how God's law goes beyond external actions to address internal motivations, revealing the depth of sin and the need for a Savior. Practical Applications: Christians are encouraged to cultivate contentment, seek the good of their neighbors, and align their desires with God's will, avoiding selfishness and envy. Questions for Reflection: How does covetousness manifest in your life, and how can you address it in a way that honors God? What steps can you take to cultivate contentment and gratitude for God's provision in your current circumstances? How does understanding the inward focus of the tenth commandment deepen your appreciation for God's law and your need for Christ? In what ways can you actively seek to promote the good of your neighbor as required by the tenth commandment?

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal dive deep into the Ninth Commandment, exploring its implications for truthful speech in our everyday lives. The conversation begins with a reflection on the moral and ethical weight of our words, highlighting how they reveal the condition of our hearts. The hosts emphasize that the Ninth Commandment, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor," is not just about avoiding lies but encompasses a broader responsibility to speak truthfully and lovingly while promoting the good name of others. The discussion touches on the challenges of navigating truth in a culture rife with gossip, slander, and half-truths. Jesse and Tony unpack the nuances of violating the Ninth Commandment, including the dangers of omission, gossip, and even speaking the truth in unkind or harmful ways. They also explore how this commandment relates to broader ethical principles, such as preserving life, fostering community, and demonstrating Christ-like character in every interaction. Throughout the episode, the hosts provide practical insights for listeners, offering guidance on how to examine their motives, guard their tongues, and speak in ways that reflect the righteousness of Christ. They challenge listeners to consider how their words can either build up or tear down others and encourage them to strive for speech that promotes truth, love, and integrity. Key Points: The Ninth Commandment is about more than avoiding lies; it calls us to promote the truth and the good name of others. Gossip, slander, and omission can violate the Ninth Commandment, even when the information shared is technically true. Speaking truthfully requires examining our motives, guarding against harmful speech, and ensuring that our words promote life and righteousness. Questions for Reflection: How do my words reflect the condition of my heart and my relationship with Christ? Am I promoting the good name of others in my conversations, or am I quick to judge or gossip? How can I better align my speech with the principles of truth, love, and integrity outlined in the Ninth Commandment?

In this episode, Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal delve deeply into the eighth commandment, "You shall not steal," from Exodus 20:15. They explore the spiritual and moral implications of theft, moving beyond the physical act of stealing to examine how this commandment challenges our hearts, attitudes, and relationships. The discussion highlights how theft encompasses not only the wrongful taking of material possessions but also withholding value, generosity, and effort from others and God. Jesse and Tony emphasize the broader call to avoid greed and materialism while embracing generosity as a reflection of God's character. The hosts discuss the theological foundation of ownership, highlighting how God entrusts individuals with property and responsibilities as image bearers. They consider how theft violates this divine order and affronts both God and the person wronged. The conversation extends to practical applications, addressing how Christians can unintentionally break this commandment through actions like withholding tithes, neglecting to use their talents for the benefit of others, or failing to be generous with their time and resources. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to examine their own hearts and lifestyles. Jesse and Tony challenge Christians to serve their local churches and communities with their unique talents and resources, aligning themselves with God's moral law. They remind listeners of the grace of Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law on their behalf, and the empowering work of the Holy Spirit to live lives of generosity and obedience. Key Points: Theft goes beyond the physical act of taking possessions—it includes withholding value, generosity, and effort from others and God. God's law reveals the greed and materialism of the human heart, calling us to reevaluate our relationship with wealth and possessions. Christians are called to live generously, using their time, talents, and resources to serve their local church and community as a reflection of God's character. Questions for Reflection: How does your understanding of theft extend beyond physical possessions to include time, effort, and generosity? In what ways can you use your unique talents and resources to serve your local church and community? How does the eighth commandment challenge you to reevaluate your relationship with material goods and wealth?

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb delve deeply into the seventh commandment, "You shall not commit adultery," exploring its implications for Christian living and theology. They begin by addressing the explicit meaning of the commandment and its broader theological significance, emphasizing its role as a reflection of God's covenantal faithfulness to His people. The conversation highlights how marriage serves as a profound picture of Christ's union with the Church, connecting human relationships to divine truth. The hosts also discuss the inward focus of the seventh commandment, pointing out that it is not merely about avoiding external acts of adultery but also about cultivating a pure heart and mind. They explore how lust, impure thoughts, and even cultural consumption of sexualized content are violations of this commandment. The discussion underscores the importance of guarding one's heart and striving for holiness in a world saturated with sexual temptation. Throughout the episode, Tony and Jesse offer practical insights into how Christians can honor this commandment, whether married or single. They emphasize the redemptive power of the gospel, reminding listeners that healing and forgiveness are available in Christ for those who have fallen short. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own lives, seek accountability, and celebrate the beauty of God's design for marriage. Key Points: The seventh commandment's explicit prohibition against adultery and its deeper theological meaning as a reflection of God's covenantal faithfulness. The inward focus of the commandment, addressing purity of heart and mind, and the cultural challenges of living in a hyper-sexualized world. The redemptive message of the gospel, offering hope and healing for those affected by adultery or sexual sin, and the importance of seeking holiness in relationships. Questions for Reflection: How does understanding the seventh commandment as a reflection of God's covenantal faithfulness change your perspective on marriage and fidelity? In what ways can you guard your heart and mind against cultural influences that undermine purity and holiness? How can the gospel's message of forgiveness and restoration bring healing in situations of broken relationships or sexual sin?

In this episode, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb dive into the sixth commandment, "You shall not murder," and discuss the root of anger and how it can lead to breaking this commandment. They explore the comprehensive nature of this commandment, including the duty to not give others a reason to kill and the importance of controlling one's thoughts and inner life. The hosts provide insights into how this commandment connects with other biblical principles and how it applies to our daily lives. They emphasize the high standard of the law and the need to eradicate the root of sin in our hearts.

In this episode, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb discuss the importance of honoring parents as a commandment from God. They explore the significance of this commandment in the Ten Commandments and how it relates to submitting to authority. Through reflection and discussion, they encourage listeners to thank God for their parents and to strive to honor them even in difficult circumstances.

In this episode of the Reform Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony discuss the importance of the Lord's Day and how we can properly observe it. They explore the Sabbath as a gift, the significance of corporate worship, and the balance between legalism and liberty. They also share practical tips for prioritizing the Lord's Day and highlight the importance of language in shaping our understanding of it. Listen in for a thoughtful and engaging discussion on this crucial aspect of the Christian life.

In this episode, Tony and Jesse discuss the third commandment and the proper use of God's name. They examine the ways in which we can inadvertently take the Lord's name in vain, and how we can honor Him by using His name reverently and intentionally. They also consider the importance of sanctification and the role of the Holy Spirit in transforming our hearts and minds. Through their conversation, they encourage listeners to cultivate a deeper respect for God and a greater awareness of the words they use in their daily lives.

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal discuss the importance of the second commandment in understanding how to worship God. They explain that the second commandment is a regulative call to defeat distractions that compromise our appreciation and worship of God. By worshiping God according to His precepts and refusing to engage in worship in ways that He has not commanded us, the Spirit moves through those things, and God transforms His people. Overall, this episode provides a deep dive into the second commandment, emphasizing the importance of understanding how to worship God in the way that he wants to be worshiped.

In this episode, Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal discuss the implications of the first commandment, "You shall have no other gods before me," from Exodus 20. They delve into the three or four things that the commandment prohibits, which include idolatry, polytheism, superstition, and invocation of saints and angels. The hosts point out that while physical idols are prevalent in some cultures, the Western world has made its idols more abstract. They caution against superstition, which violates the first commandment by attributing cause and effect to mysterious forces. Instead, they encourage listeners to give thanks to God for all things, as everything that happens occurs according to His good, wise, and powerful decree. The hosts remind us that the first commandment is a lofty standard, but we must strive to worship God properly, as He created us to worship.

In this podcast episode, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb discuss the role of the Ten Commandments in Christian ethics. They emphasize that Christians have a unique obligation to obey God's law, as they have already been redeemed and claimed by God. The prologue to the Ten Commandments establishes two things: the commandments are specifically for God's people, and God has already redeemed them. The hosts highlight the importance of understanding this framework, as it elevates the requirement for obedience to God's commandments. They also caution against slipping into legalism and emphasize that the law is for our good and God's glory. Throughout the episode, the hosts reference the Westminster shorter catechism and explore the role of the Ten Commandments in Christian ethics. They discuss how God's people are obligated to obey the moral law and the significance of the commandments being summarized in the greatest commandment and the second commandment. The discussion also touches on the concept of common grace and how it relates to Christian ethics. The hosts caution against a denial of common grace and emphasize the importance of recognizing that Christians have moral intuitions that existed prior to their conversion. Overall, this episode of the podcast provides engaging and thought-provoking insights into the role of the Ten Commandments in Christian ethics. It encourages listeners to reflect on their obligation to obey God's law and the significance of being part of God's redeemed people.

An important lecture delivered by Mike Riccardi at ShepCon 2023. The original audio is available at https://www.gracechurch.org/sermons/20904. This file is posted here for educational purposes only. No copyright infringement is intended.

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, Tony and Jesse discuss the Lord's Supper as a means of grace. They highlight the importance of understanding the reason why God gave us the sacrament and how it can promote assurance and growth in grace. They caution against adding unnecessary symbolism to the Lord's Supper and emphasize the need to honor and participate in it properly.

In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony discuss the significance of baptism in the life of a Christian. They cover the promises of God, the unifying nature of baptism, and the importance of reflecting on our own baptisms. Jesse and Tony also provide nine concrete action items to help Christians improve upon their baptism throughout their lives. They emphasize the importance of approaching baptism discussions with humility and gratitude for the unity it brings to all Christians.

The brothers discuss the nature of a sacrament and intro a short series on these promises from God.

The brothers close out their ecclesiology series with something practical: the communion of saints.

The brothers close out the ecclesiology series with a discussion of congregational polity.

Join the brothers as they delve into the intricacies of Presbyterian Church Polity. This thought-provoking discussion will explore the foundations and principles behind the Presbyterian system of governance and its impact on the church.

In episode 327 of the Reformed Brotherhood podcast, the brothers continue their discussion on ecclesiology with a focus on the Episcopal form of Church Polity. They delve into the history and structure of this type of governance, examining its decision-making processes and its advantages and disadvantages.

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood podcast, we continue our series on Ecclesiology with a discussion on the Visible Church. We delve into the biblical understanding of the Visible Church and its role in the body of Christ. We also explore the importance of the visible expression of the Church in the world and its impact on the broader community. Join us as we continue to unpack the theology of the Church and its relevance for our lives today.

The brothers talk about the invisible Church and why this has to be the starting point for ecclesiology.

Jesse is joined by his mom, Heather, and they discuss some Schwamb family holiday traditions.

In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, the brothers discuss the importance of corporate and public prayer in the life of a believer. From a Reformed perspective, corporate prayer is seen as a vital part of the worship of the church and a means by which believers can lift up their needs and concerns to God.

Join the Brothers for a road trip in rural New Hampshire.

The brothers talk about tithes and offerings, and how it relates to gratitude.

The brothers talk about the Reformed practice of the public reading of Scripture, how it relates to preaching, and why both are important.

The brothers discuss musical worship, specifically what it means to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.

The brothers talk about the 2 Kingdom view and share their own positions on the question of Church and Culture.

The brothers talk about transformationalism. What is it? What is good about it? What concerns do they have?

The brothers discuss theonomy and why it isn't biblical, confessional, or rational.

The brothers discuss the Regulative Principle and how it is broader than just the Lord's Day.

The brothers discuss Christian liberty and who the weaker brother really is.

The brothers discuss the three uses of the Moral Law.

The brothers discuss the distinction between perseverance and preservation, and they aren't opposed to each other.

The brothers continue to discuss good works and how they are a necessary outcome of the Spirit's saving work.

The brothers talk about the source of good works, and why this matters.

The brothers take a turn to the practical as they discuss the important practice of regular repentance.

The brothers talk about repentance, and how it is a gift from God.

The brothers talk about sanctification and how God's work in us should drive us to good works.

The brothers discuss an oft overlooked step in the Ordo Salutis, and how the Spirit is central to this stage of salvation.

The brothers switch it up and talk about conversion. What is it? Who does it? How is it related to 2 Kings 6:1-7

Double the imputation, double the fun. The brothers talk about double imputation and its centrality to the Gospel.

Justification by faith alone is a central belief in Reformed theology. But what is faith? The brothers discuss what faith is and why it is so central to get this right.

The brothers finish their discussion of effectual calling by covering the inward call, and why it is so vital to keep the inward and outward distinct.

The brothers start their discussion of the theology of salvation in a place you might not expect it.

The brothers close out the Christology series by discussing the Kingship of Christ.

The brothers talk though the importance and centrality of Christ's priestly work.