Reformed Forum

This is the seventh lesson in Dr. R. Carlton Wynne's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Calvin's Institutes (Books 1–2). It covers Book 2, Chapters 1–6 of the Institutes of the Christian Religion, addressing the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 3:56 Knowing Ourselves as Created and Fallen 8:13 The Fall and Original Sin 20:56 Free Will 26:37 Common Grace 30:24 Repentance and Renewal in Christ 35:31 The Genuine Agency of Satan and Man Register for this free on-demand course on our website to access supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than 20 additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/the-theology-of-calvins-institutes-books-1-2/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #calvinism #reformedtheology

In Reclaiming the 'Dark Ages': How the Gospel Light Shone from 500–1500 (Christian Focus), authors Iain Wright and Yannick Imbert challenge the popular Protestant perception of the Middle Ages as a period of spiritual darkness and theological decay. They argue that this millennium was not devoid of Christian influence and that it produced many significant and influential Christian thinkers. Wright and Imbert join us to present a more nuanced view of the medieval period, highlighting the spiritual and theological contributions of figures such as Bernard of Clairvaux, Anselm of Canterbury, and John Wycliffe, among others. They emphasize the continuity of orthodox Christian theology and the guiding hand of providence throughout this era, urging modern Christians to appreciate the historical richness and spiritual insights of the Middle Ages. Iain Wright is pastor of Covenant OPC, Orland Park, Illinois. Yannick Imbert holds the William Edgar Chair of Apologetics at Faculté Jean Calvin, Aix–en–Provence, southern France. He also serves on the theological committee of the National Council of French Evangelicals. Chapters 00:07 Introduction 06:01 Thinking about the Middle Ages 15:24 Reconsidering the Middle Ages 21:57 Selecting the Theologians to Include in the Book 27:24 Anselm of Canterbury 36:19 Peter Waldo, John Wycliffe, and Jan Hus 42:10 Lessons for the Church Today 46:42 Conclusion

There is a transition that occurs between the ministry of John the Baptist and the Ministry of Jesus. John begins to decrease, and Jesus begins to increase. The Lord Jesus teaches and shows what the gospel is by his words and actions. We see how Jesus himself is the subject matter of the good news—the gospel, and his words and actions reveal the nature of the kingdom.

This is the sixth lesson in Dr. R. Carlton Wynne's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Calvin's Institutes (Books 1–2). It covers Book 1, Chapters 13–18 of the Institutes of the Christian Religion, addressing the following topics: 0:00 Calvin's Contributions to Trinitarian Theology 6:27 The Bible, Extra-Biblical Language, and the Definition of the Trinity 14:32 The Divinity of the Son and the Holy Spirit 17:52 The Incomprehensible Mystery of the Trinity 20:40 The Aseity of the Son 25:45 Heresies Concerning the Trinity 28:32 God's Works of Creation 34:53 God's Providence Register for this free on-demand course on our website to access supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than 20 additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/the-theology-of-calvins-institutes-books-1-2/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #calvinism #reformedtheology

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey is joined by a panel of experienced pastors and church planters to discuss the vital role of the ordinary means of grace in church planting. The conversation explores how God's Word, sacraments, and prayer serve as the primary instruments for planting and growing churches, contrasting these biblical methods with modern consumer-driven and franchise models. Together, they share their personal experiences, challenges, and insights on how a faithful adherence to Reformed theology and practices impacts church planting efforts. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the importance of maintaining theological integrity while engaging in evangelism and community outreach. Whether you're involved in church planting or simply interested in how the ordinary means of grace shape the life and mission of the church, this episode offers rich theological reflection and practical wisdom. Joe Cristman is Pastor/Church Planter of Redeemer Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Lombard, IL. Neil Quinn is Senior Pastor of Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church (PCA), in Kalamazoo, MI (a plant of University Reformed Church). Chris Hartshorn is Regional Home Missionary for the OPC Presbytery of Southern California. Eric Watkins is Director of the Center for Missions and Evangelism at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. Chapters [00:00:07] Introduction and Welcome [00:01:18] Panelist Introductions [00:03:33] Reformed Forum Conference Announcement [00:05:15] Center for Missions and Evangelism Conference [00:07:26] The Shift in Church Planting Models [00:09:10] Eric Watkins on Postmodern Consumerism in Church Planting [00:12:33] Joe Cristman's Experience in Lombard [00:15:17] Chris Hartshorn's Journey to Church Planting [00:19:22] Neal Quinn on Church Planting in Kalamazoo [00:26:39] Generational and Consumer-Driven Church Planting Models [00:28:13] Challenges of Church Planting Using Ordinary Means [00:29:30] The Power of God's Word in Church Planting [00:34:22] Different Church Planting Models: Mother-Daughter, Parachute, and Core Group [00:40:19] Importance of a Local Church Presence [00:46:11] The Role of Bible Study in Church Planting [00:54:23] Evangelism and Outreach in Church Planting [01:05:11] Developing a Culture of Evangelism in the Church [01:10:00] Overcoming Challenges in Church Outreach

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We continue our discussion of chapter XXVI, "Christian Baptism." In this episode, we begin to discuss the nature and meaning of Christian baptism.

This is the fifth lesson in Dr. R. Carlton Wynne's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Calvin's Institutes (Books 1–2). It covers Book 1, Chapters 6–12 of the Institutes of the Christian Religion, addressing the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 2:40 Calvin on the "Help" of Scripture 7:08 The Testimony of the Holy Spirit and the Divine Authority of Scripture 22:06 Applications for Evangelism, Apologetics, and Bible Reading 24:45 The God Revealed in Scripture 27:31 The Worship of God by Man-Made Images Register for this free on-demand course on our website to access supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than 20 additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/the-theology-of-calvins-institutes-books-1-2/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #calvinism #reformedtheology

Rev. Dr. Daniel Ragusa, pastor of Messiah's Reformed Fellowship in New York City joins Camden Bucey for this thoughtful episode of Christ the Center. Together, they explore the profound impact of Dutch Reformed theology on American Presbyterianism, focusing on key historical moments and figures, including Cornelius Van Til and Gerhardus Vos. Ragusa shares insights from his recent work translating and editing Van Til's "Dutch Letters" and discusses the lasting influence of Dutch Reformed thought on the formation of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC). This conversation examines the connections between the nineteenth-century Dutch secession movements, particularly the Afscheiding of 1834, and their influence on the theological and ecclesiastical landscape in America. With a focus on confessional integrity and the challenges posed by modernity, Ragusa highlights the ongoing relevance of these historical developments for Reformed theology today. Listeners will also hear about exciting new publications from Reformed Forum, including Ragusa's forthcoming book, The Joyful Fellowship, which traces the theme of "God with us" throughout Scripture. This episode provides a rich, historical, and theological exploration of the Dutch Reformed legacy in American Presbyterianism. Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:04:16 The Joyful Fellowship 00:13:08 Van Til's Dutch Letters 00:21:43 First Impressions of the Letters 00:29:09 The Afscheiding of 1834 00:47:42 The Doleantie 00:50:10 Holland-Mania 00:54:51 Vos as a Connecting Figure 01:06:30 American Presbyterian Influence on the Dutch Reformed 01:11:57 A Struggle for Faithfulness to Confessional Identity 01:21:12 Teaching at MARS 01:23:24 Conclusion

This is the fourth lesson in Dr. R. Carlton Wynne's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Calvin's Institutes (Books 1–2). It covers Book 1, Chapters 2–5 of the Institutes of the Christian Religion, addressing the following topics: 0:00 Calvin Contra Barth and Brunner on the Natural Knowledge of God 9:07 Knowledge of God, Piety, and True Religion 14:10 The Sensus Divinitatis or Sense of Deity 22:55 Man's Sinful Response to the Seed of Religion 26:12 The External Revelation of God in Nature 32:33 Men Without Excuse Register for this free on-demand course on our website to access supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than 20 additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/the-theology-of-calvins-institutes-books-1-2/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #calvinism #reformedtheology

Join us for an engaging episode of Christ the Center as we sit down with Douglas Sean O'Donnell, pastor, theologian, and author of Expository Reflections on the Gospels: Mark. In this episode, we delve into O'Donnell's profound insights on the Gospel of Mark, exploring the unique theological and literary contours of this pivotal book of the New Testament. O'Donnell shares the inspiration behind his work, the challenges he faced, and the discoveries he made while writing this comprehensive commentary. We discuss key themes such as the identity and mission of Jesus, the importance of understanding His role as the Son of God, and how these insights can be practically applied in preaching and teaching. Whether you are a pastor, theologian, or layperson, this conversation offers valuable perspectives that will deepen your understanding of the Gospel of Mark. Listen to hear how O'Donnell's blend of scholarly precision and pastoral sensitivity provides a fresh, accessible approach to this gospel. Douglas Sean O'Donnell is the senior vice president of Bible editorial at Crossway. With a PhD from the University of Aberdeen and extensive experience teaching and preaching, O'Donnell brings a unique blend of scholarly rigor and pastoral sensitivity to his work. He has pastored several churches, served as a professor, and authored or edited over twenty books, including commentaries, Bible studies, children's books, and a children's curriculum. His works include collaborations such as The Pastor's Book with R. Kent Hughes and The Beauty and Power of Biblical Exposition with Leland Ryken. Chapters 00:07 Introduction 02:58 Working at Crossway 09:12 Current Status of the ESV 16:13 Expository Reflections 21:56 Relating the Gospels 28:56 The Authorship of Mark 31:40 Surprising Aspects of Mark 41:15 Unique Features of Mark 48:04 How to Use This Book 50:21 Future Projects 55:12 Conclusion

Dr. Lane G. Tipton presents on the profound Christological insights of the book of Hebrews. Dr. Tipton will guide us through the scriptural foundations and doctrinal significance of Christ's immutability, revealing how this aspect of the Son provides unwavering assurance to believers. This live webinar was recorded on August 14, 2024. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:05:56 Steadfast Savior 00:51:04 Questions & Answers 01:45:01 Conclusion https://reformedforum.org/event/steadfast-savior-unveiling-the-immutable-mediator-in-hebrews

This is the third lesson in Dr. R. Carlton Wynne's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Calvin's Institutes (Books 1–2). It covers Book 1, Chapter 1 of the Institutes of the Christian Religion, addressing the following topics: 0:00 Introduction to Book 1 3:13 Knowledge of God in Terms of Wisdom 5:13 Two-Fold Knowledge of God and Self 8:52 Ancient Sources on the Two-Fold Knowledge 18:29 Logical Priority in the Two-Fold Knowledge 21:42 Overview of Calvin's Discussion of the Knowledge of God Register for this free on-demand course on our website to access supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than 20 additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/the-theology-of-calvins-institutes-books-1-2/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #calvinism #reformedtheology

In this episode, we speak with Dr. David Noe, the translator, and Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn, the editor behind the newly released English edition of John Arrowsmith's remarkable work, Plans for Holy War: How the Spiritual Soldier Fights, Conquers, and Triumphs. Originally published in 1657 as Tactica Sacra, this treatise considers the intricacies of spiritual warfare, offering timeless insights and practical guidance for Christians engaged in the spiritual battle. John Arrowsmith was a notable seventeenth-century theologian and member of the Westminster Assembly. Born in 1602 in Gateshead, Durham county, Arrowsmith was a dedicated scholar who served as a fellow at St. Catherine's College and later as master of St. John's College, Cambridge. His significant involvement in the Westminster Assembly and his writings have left a lasting impact on Reformed theology. Join us as Drs. Noe and Van Dixhoorn share their journey in bringing this classic work to modern readers, revealing the challenges and triumphs they encountered along the way. With a deep appreciation for Arrowsmith's theological and scholarly contributions, they offer listeners a unique perspective on why Plans for Holy War remains a vital resource today. Dr. David Noe serves as pastor of Reformation Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He is a distinguished translator and scholar with a deep expertise in classical languages and Reformed theology. Dr. Noe is also the Latin editor for the Confessional Presbyterian Journal, and his online pedagogy for Latin, Greek, and Classics generally can be found at LatinPerDiem.com, MossMethod.com, and AdNavseam.com. Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn (PhD, Cambridge) is Professor of Church History and Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC and an OPC minister. He is the author of Confessing the Faith and God's Ambassadors and editor of The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly (1643–1652). Chapters 00:07 Introduction 05:36 Biography of John Arrowsmith 11:02 Dr. Noe's Introduction to Arrowsmith 14:47 Arrowsmith's Health 17:41 Arrowsmith's Latin 21:57 Arrowsmith's Involvement at the Westminster Assembly 26:51 The Portions of This Volume 29:25 Speeches against Weigelianism 33:44 Arrowsmith's Work on Spiritual Warfare 40:28 The Pastoral-Scholastic Style 44:03 The Present Value of Reading This Book 55:08 Future Projects 57:38 Conclusion

This is the second lesson in Dr. R. Carlton Wynne's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Calvin's Institutes (Books 1–2). This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 3:31 Early Life, Family, and Education 13:24 Conversion and the Affair of the Placards 15:46 Basel and the 1536 Edition of the Institutes 19:27 Ministry in Geneva 25:53 Exile to Strasbourg, Marriage, and Trials 30:48 Calvin's Legacy Register for this free on-demand course on our website to access supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than 20 additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/the-theology-of-calvins-institutes-books-1-2/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #calvinism #reformedtheology

In this episode, we are honored to welcome Dr. Greg K. Beale, a renowned biblical scholar and author, to discuss his latest book, Union with the Resurrected Christ (Baker Academic). Join us as Dr. Beale examines the profound theological concept of the believer's union with the resurrected Christ, exploring its biblical foundations, theological implications, and practical applications. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Beale shares insights from key biblical passages in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting how themes such as the new exodus in Isaiah and the teachings of Paul and Jesus form the basis of this transformative union. We also discuss the eschatological significance of this union and how it shapes our understanding of sanctification, Christian living, and our identity in Christ. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the unique contributions of Union with the Resurrected Christto contemporary theological scholarship, as well as practical consideration for living out this union in their daily lives. Whether you are a scholar, pastor, or layperson, this episode offers valuable insights into the full scope of Christian salvation. Dr. Gregory K. Beale is Professor of New Testament at RTS Dallas. With a distinguished academic career spanning decades, Dr. Beale has shaped minds at institutions such as Grove City College, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Wheaton Graduate School, and Westminster Theological Seminary. A former president of the Evangelical Theological Society, Dr. Beale brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our conversation on New Testament interpretation and biblical theology. Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion that underscores the richness of our union with the resurrected Christ and its vital importance for the Christian faith.

This is the first lesson in Dr. R. Carlton Wynne's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Calvin's Institutes (Books 1–2). This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 The Institutes and Living Coram Deo 4:16 The 1559 Edition of the Institutes 8:42 The Two-Fold Purpose of the Institutes Register for this free on-demand course on our website to access supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than 20 additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/the-theology-of-calvins-institutes-books-1-2/ Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #calvinism #reformedtheology

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy discuss the profound theme of the Great Commission and God's overarching plan for the nations. This conversation serves as a follow-up to a pre-conference event held at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in March as well as a prelude to Reformed Forum's upcoming annual theology conference, set for September 28, 2024, in Grayslake, Illinois. Camden and Jim discuss the biblical foundations of the Great Commission, tracing its roots from the Old Testament through to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. They emphasize the continuity of God's redemptive plan, highlighting key scriptural passages such as Matthew 28:18-20 and Isaiah 2:2-4, and unpack the theological significance of the inclusion of Gentiles as seen through the line of Japheth. Listeners will gain insights into the unity of Scripture, the role of the ordinary means of grace, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promise to gather His people from every nation into His heavenly kingdom. This episode also provides practical encouragement for engaging in missions, both locally and globally, and underscores the importance of the Great Commission in the life of the church. Join us for this enriching theological discussion that prepares the heart and mind for a deeper understanding of God's unfolding plan for the nations. Resources Mentioned: To the Ends of the Earth: The Great Commission and God's Unfolding Plan for the Nations booklet Reformed Forum Theology Conference 2024 Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:06:41 Greenville Seminary Pre-Conference Event 00:23:46 Isaiah's Vision and the End of Missions 00:28:15 The End of Nations 00:37:07 The Blessing of Japheth 00:47:21 The Work of the Church Today 00:53:43 Where to Focus Missions Efforts 01:01:58 Conclusion

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Dr. David Noe, pastor of Reformation Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids and former faculty member at Calvin University. They discuss Dr. Noe's work at the H. Henry Meeter Center for Calvin Studies, focusing on his recent workshop and the enduring significance of classical studies for understanding the Reformed theological tradition. Join us as we discuss the importance of Latin scholarship, the influence of classical authors on Reformation thought, and the challenges and rewards of engaging with historical theological texts. This conversation highlights the value of communal learning and the timeless relevance of studying foundational Christian doctrines in their original languages. Dr. Noe is also the Latin editor for the Confessional Presbyterian Journal, and his online pedagogy for Latin, Greek, and Classics generally can be found at LatinPerDiem.com, MossMethod.com, and AdNavseam.com. Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:03:13 Working with Other Scholars 00:11:12 A Recent Latin Workshop at the Meeter Center 00:20:08 Seeing Scholarship in Process 00:24:09 Imitating the Education of the Reformers 00:34:33 Day 1: Cicero, Seneca, Lactantius 00:41:48 Day 2: Augustine, Bernard of Clairveaux, Thomas Aquinas 00:49:01 Day 3: Lorenzo Valla, Guillaume Bude, and Erasmus 00:54:31 Day 4: Calvin 00:56:53 Day 5: Vermigli 00:59:21 Daily Disciplines 01:07:01 Latin Per Diem 01:12:22 Conclusion

In this engaging episode, we explore the intricate and profound world of Trinitarian theology with theologian Adonis Vidu. Join us as we explore the key themes and arguments from his latest book, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology (Eerdmans). Vidu passionately defends the doctrine of inseparable operations, which asserts that all actions of the Trinity are unified and indivisible. Through this doctrine, we gain a deeper understanding of the unity and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Throughout our conversation, Vidu traces the development, challenges, and implications of inseparable operations from biblical foundations and patristic contributions to contemporary theological debates. We address various objections, particularly concerning the incarnation and atonement, and demonstrate how this doctrine can coherently explain complex theological concepts while preserving the unity and distinction within the Trinity. Adonis Vidu serves as Andrew Mutch Distinguished Professor of Theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where his research and teaching focus on the intersections of historical and contemporary theological thought. Vidu holds a Ph.D. in Theology and Religious Studies from King's College London, and he has authored several influential works, including Atonement, Law, and Justice: The Cross in Historical and Cultural Contexts and the subject of this conversation, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology. Watch or listen to gain invaluable insights from one of today's leading theological minds as we explore the profound depths of Trinitarian theology and its relevance for contemporary Christian life and thought. Whether you're a seasoned theologian or simply curious about the intricacies of faith, this episode promises to be both enlightening and thought-provoking.

We recorded a webinar with Dr. Harrison Perkins, author of Reformed Covenant Theology: A Systematic Introduction (Lexham Academic). This event explored the multifaceted nature of covenant theology, examining how it relates to other branches of exegetical and theological study. Discover how covenant theology is informed by exegetical, biblical, and systematic theology and how it in turn influences other disciplines. Whether you're a theologian, pastor, student, or simply interested in deepening your knowledge of Reformed theology, this webinar promises to provide valuable insights and foster enriching discussions. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:05:12 Perkins on Reformed Covenant Theology 00:29:00 Covenant Theology and the Theological Encyclopedia 00:41:19 Advancing beyond Mere Typology 00:54:34 The Most Pressing Challenges to Covenant Theology 00:58:24 Thoughts on a Republication of the Covenant of Works 01:05:47 Types "Resembling" the Covenant of Works 01:21:08 Conclusion

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We continue our discussion of chapter XXV, "The Word of God and the Sacraments in General." In this episode, we mostly talk about the nature of a sacrament as a means of grace.

Something significant is missing in Genesis 34 as we read one of the most shocking stories of Scripture. How do you preach Christ in a text where a violent act is met with severe retribution? Are Jacob's sons exercising just judgment or personal revenge? Does this episode parallel the later conquest of Canaan? We seek to answer these questions and show how the ravages of sin can be undone; how the unclean can be made clean. There is good news for the Christian in this dreadful story.

Join us as we discuss the four divisions of revelation by Christ beginning on p. 344 in Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. We will unpack Vos's comprehensive categorization of revelation by Christ, which he divides into four distinct yet interconnected periods: Natural or General Revelation: Extending from creation and continuing indefinitely, revealing God's nature and attributes through the world around us. Old Testament Revelation: Spanning from the entrance of sin to the incarnation, highlighting God's redemptive plan through the history and prophecy of the Old Testament. Revelation during Christ's Earthly Ministry: Covering his life, teaching, miracles, death, resurrection, and ascension, manifesting the fullness of God in human form. Revelation through His Chosen Servants: Extending from Christ's ascension to the death of the last apostle, communicated through the inspired writings and teachings of his disciples under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We explore how these revelations unfold in a linear, biblical-theological manner, emphasizing Christ's activity before and after the incarnation. We discuss the significance of natural revelation, the pivotal moments of Old Testament prophecy, the profound truths revealed during Christ's ministry, and the ongoing impact of apostolic teaching. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the coherence and unity of God's redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture. We also reflect on the continuing relevance of these revelations for the church today and how they inform our worship, theology, and daily living.

Paul calls upon his readers to remember five realities of their former life: separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers to the covenants, having no hope, and without God. But the glorious good news is "BUT NOW in Christ Jesus" those who were far off have been brought near. Jesus, through his death and resurrection, has reconciled the repentant sinner to God, so that he is no longer a stranger, but a member of God's household.

In this episode, Camden Bucey connects with Jim Cassidy, pastor of South Austin OPC and president of the Reformed Forum board, to discuss global theological education and Reformed missions. Dr. Cassidy shares insights from his recent trip to the Philippines, where he taught Reformed theology to village pastors and engaged with local congregations deeply committed to confessional Reformed theology. The conversation highlights the vibrant yet challenging landscape of Reformed education in the Philippines. Dr. Cassidy details his work with Heidelberg Seminary and the Pearl of the Orient Covenant Reformed Church, emphasizing the growing hunger for robust theological training in a predominantly Roman Catholic country. The episode underscores the vital role of Reformed Forum's online resources, which provide accessible, high-quality theological education to students worldwide. Join us as we explore the current state of Reformed missions, the unique challenges faced by international churches, and the strategic importance of theological education in cultivating a mature, self-sustaining global Reformed community. This episode is a compelling look at how God is using modern technology and faithful teaching to spread the gospel and strengthen the global church. Listen in for a thoughtful discussion on the future of Reformed education, the impact of Reformed Forum's resources, and the ongoing mission to equip believers worldwide with sound doctrine. 00:07 Introduction 04:57 The Reformed Labors in Philippines 14:52 The Need for an Established On-Site Seminary 22:18 The History of Reformed Missions in Philippines 28:10 Ministerial Training and Church Planting 37:29 International Awareness of Theological Issues 39:47 Providing Resources to People Hungry for Reformed Theology 49:34 Conclusion This is Christ the Center episode 861 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc861)

In this episode, we approach the critical topic of Reformed global theological education and discipleship. Join us as we explore the unique challenges and incredible opportunities present in various regions around the world, including Hungary, Latvia, Germany, Moldova, and beyond. We'll hear insights from Reformed pastors and missionaries, who share their experiences and perspectives on the cultural, linguistic, and practical aspects of providing robust theological training in diverse contexts. Tune in for a compelling discussion that not only highlights the needs but also presents actionable steps and opportunities for making a significant impact in the global Reformed community. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone passionate about theological education, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for contributing to the advancement of Reformed theology worldwide. 00:00:06 Introduction 00:01:44 An Update on Global Theological Education 00:04:31 Recent Travel for Reformed Forum 00:07:33 Summary of Conversations with Pastors and Missionaries 00:24:14 Supporting Global Theological Education 00:30:45 Paul Sanduleac, Moldova 00:37:07 Raul Profire, Romania 00:42:29 Jaroslav, Belarus 00:48:26 Artis Celmins, Latvia 00:53:49 Imre Szöke, Hungary 01:02:47 Peter Szabo, Hungary 01:03:40 Andreas Repp, Germany 01:13:56 Jonathan Master of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary 01:33:09 Joshua Gielow of TruthXchange 01:39:13 Conclusion This is Christ the Center episode 860 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc860)