Reformed Forum

Moses brings us to the height of the conflict between Jacob and Esau. We look at the need to preserve the tension in the story while connecting it to the larger narrative. Here we learn how Jacob's humility leads to a resolution of conflict. We see also the high point of the story — the building of the altar, as Jacob has reconciled with God and man.

In this episode, we sit down with David Hall, Senior Pastor of Midway Presbyterian Church in Powder Springs, GA, and a prolific author, to discuss his latest book, Irony and the Presbyterian Church in America: The First Fifty Years. Hall's work, a historical and analytical exploration of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), offers a unique perspective on the denomination's fifty-year journey since its inception in 1973. Through the lens of irony, reminiscent of Greek dramas, Hall examines the PCA's evolution within the wider context of American Presbyterianism. David Hall is the author of over 40 books, including influential titles like Savior or Servant? Putting Government in Its Place and The Legacy of John Calvin. As the Founder and Senior Fellow of the Kuyper Institute and a leading figure in the Calvin500 celebration, Hall's expertise offers a profound look into the PCA's successes, challenges, and the critical question: can it avoid the decline that other religious communions have faced?

In this episode, we consider the reality that mankind, apart from God's glorious grace, is completely and totally lost in sin. Before Paul moves to extol the riches of God's grace in Eph 2:4–10, he first digs down deep to expose the reality of sinful man's helpless estate. The more we understand the depth of our sin, the more we will fall to our knees in wonder of God's mercy in Christ. We must first reckon with the bad news before we bathe in the good news.

In this episode, Camden Bucey engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Terry Johnson, Senior Minister of Independent Presbyterian Church in Savannah, Georgia and the author of Understanding Family Worship: Its History, Theology, and Practice (Christian Focus). This book provides a timely perspective on family worship. Rev. Johnson reflects on his personal journey, starting with the birth of his first child, which sparked a deep commitment to family worship. Johnson emphasizes the need for consistency and the avoidance of lethargy in practicing family worship. He discusses the challenges and strategies for implementing daily family worship, highlighting the importance of a godly home environment for its effectiveness. The conversation also covers theological arguments supporting family worship, rooted in Reformed doctrine, and practical aspects like singing, prayer, Scripture reading, and the role of catechesis in family life. The episode concludes with encouragement for families to embrace this historic Christian practice, underscoring its foundational role in imparting faith and nurturing spiritual growth within the family unit.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We turn to chapter XXI, "Justification."

In this episode, we explain the meaning of David's profession of righteousness. How can David speak about himself as being without guilt, relative to God's law, when we know he was a sinner? If our salvation is by grace alone, then how can David say that God rewarded him for his righteousness by saving him from his enemies?

Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha cover a wide range of topics important to our community, including an in-depth review of the Reformed Academy's progress, what we've accomplished, the valuable lessons we've learned, and what we have planned for the upcoming year, including new ideas and a proposed schedule. They also dive into our recent and upcoming events and meetups, sharing highlights from our trip to California, details about our visit to Arizona, thoughts about our upcoming symposia, our big pre-conference in Greenville, and our participation in the PCA and OPC General Assemblies. Additionally, they discuss potential future cities for our meetups and events, ensuring our community remains vibrant and connected. Furthermore, they provide an update on the Reformed Forum Magazine, sharing exciting developments and what readers can look forward to. Most importantly, this town hall is an opportunity for us to engage directly with you. Camden and Ryan take questions from our livestream listeners, addressing your curiosities, concerns, and suggestions. Whether you're deeply invested in the Reformed community or simply curious about what we do, this town hall is a meaningful dialogue about our collective journey and future aspirations. Watch the video at https://youtube.com/live/D_d2Ezs1KwA

In this episode, we welcome Drs. Benjamin Gladd and G. K. Beale, co-editors of The Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament (Baker Academic) along with D. A. Carson and Andrew Naselli. We explore various theological and biblical topics, particularly focusing on the intricate relationship between the New Testament and the Old Testament. This conversation includes examining how New Testament writers drew upon and interpreted Old Testament texts, shedding light on the continuity and development of biblical themes across the testaments. The episode illuminates the complex intertextuality present in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of understanding these connections for a more comprehensive grasp of Christian theology. Additionally, the dialogue touches upon various methods and challenges in biblical scholarship, including the interpretation of biblical allusions and the significance of these allusions in understanding the New Testament's fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and typologies. Drs. Gladd and Beale's expertise provides a rich, nuanced perspective on these subjects, making the episode particularly valuable for those interested in deepening their understanding of biblical theology and the hermeneutical principles underlying the study of Scripture.

In part two of Paul's Prayer we return to consider Paul's prayer for the Ephesian believers. Yes, Paul's burden is that the Ephesian believers would know the Lord. But what specifically does he pray for them? What specifically, in this passage, does he want them to know? Join us as we reflect on Paul's — and the Lord's — burden for his people.

Dr. Cornelis Van Dam joins us to speak about his book In the Beginning: Listening to Genesis 1 and 2, in which he argues that reading Genesis 1 and 2 as history is not only justified but necessary. Van Dam clarifies the different roles that ancient Near Eastern literature and scientific theories should play in our understanding of the Bible as he carefully deals with the exegetical details of the first two chapters of the Bible. He writes: The focus of this work is therefore not to give an all-around commentary and explanation of every verse in Genesis 1 and 2, but to listen to Scripture in order to find out what God is revealing to us about the historicity of the beginning chapters of Genesis. Concentrating on listening to what Scripture actually says brings with it the realization that the reader of the Word has a relatively modest place. The one who listens to Scripture acknowledges that the Word, not the reader, determines the meaning of the text (p. 9). Dr. Van Dam is an Old Testament scholar, who has served with distinction as a professor of Old Testament at the Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary from 1981 to 2011. He holds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier University, Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary, Knox College at the University of Toronto, and the Theological University of Kampen. Over his career, he has made significant contributions to Old Testament scholarship, with a special focus on the Pentateuch. He is the author of notable works including In the Beginning: Listening to Genesis 1 and 2, The Elder, and The Deacon. These publications reflect his commitment to exploring not merely themes in biblical studies but also their implications for Christian doctrine and practice. Dr. Van Dam was honored in 2011 with a Festschrift titled Living Waters from Ancient Springs: Essays in Honor of Cornelis Van Dam. This volume, featuring contributions from notable scholars such as Hans Boersma and Al Wolters, is a testament to his significant impact on theological scholarship and his enduring legacy in biblical studies.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We turn to chapter XXI, "Justification."

In this installment of our Vos Group, we turn to pp. 335–336 of Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to explore the uniquely messianic nature of these temptations, examining how Christ's experiences differ significantly from human temptations. A key theme of this passage is the comparison of Christ's temptation with Adam's, emphasizing Christ's role as the second Adam and the federal head encountering temptation. Vos warns against a moralizing interpretation of the temptations, instead focusing on their theocentric character and their relation to true religion. The episode further explores the role of the Holy Spirit in these temptations, particularly in empowering Christ and highlighting the inauguration of the kingdom of God. The discussion is rich in its exploration of redemptive history, connecting Christ's temptations to the broader biblical narrative, from Adam's failure to Israel's typological sonship, leading to Christ's successful fulfillment as the obedient Son of God. This comprehensive analysis aims to deepen understanding of Christ's work and encourages listeners to appreciate the significance of these biblical events in the context of the entire history of salvation​​.

Join us on this week's episode as we speak with Fred Greco, pastor of Christ Church in Katy, Texas. He is a trusted authority on parliamentary procedure and church polity and moderator of the PCA's 50th General Assembly. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, alongside his wife, Deb, Fred's academic journey in Classics and History from the University of Buffalo paved the way to a career in law after acquiring his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School. As a corporate attorney specializing in commercial finance and real estate law in Cleveland, Ohio, Fred's life took an interesting turn when he was ordained as a ruling elder in the PCA, sparking his transition from business to the pulpit. The call to ministry led him and his family to the heart of Texas, where he now serves as the Senior Pastor of Christ Church. In this episode, we'll explore Rev. Greco's rich life experiences, from his expertise in law to his heart for ministry. We'll explore the relationship between his legal training and his ecclesiastical service, and how this unique background informs his understanding of governance within the church.

In part one of Paul's Prayer, we will examine how the apostle Paul prays for the Spirit to be at work so that Christians can know God more. Paul's thankfulness for the believers at Ephesus moves him to constant prayer that God would soften their hearts and open their eyes to hear and believe the gospel. This should be our burden in prayer: that we would know God more.

We welcome David Schrock to discuss his book, The Royal Priesthood and the Glory of God, in which he presents a biblical theology that explores the theme of priesthood throughout the Bible. The book demonstrates that the concept of priesthood, starting with Adam in the Garden of Eden, is central to understanding God's plan for humanity and the overarching narrative of Scripture. Schrock argues that Adam, as the first priest in the biblical narrative, sets a pattern for priesthood that echoes through the patriarchs and is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This priesthood is not limited to a specific lineage or tribe but is a calling for all of God's people. The book traces the development of this theme through the Old and New Testaments, showing how the priesthood develops from the Levitical priesthood of the Old Testament to the royal priesthood in Christ, fulfilling God's purpose for humanity to serve as mediators of his presence and ministers of his covenant. Schrock's work invites readers to see themselves as part of this royal priesthood, called to serve God and reflect his glory. David S. Schrock is pastor for preaching and theology at Occoquan Bible Church in Woodbridge, Virginia. He is a founding faculty member at Indianapolis Theological Seminary, where he teaches theology. Links davidschrock.com Indianapolis Theological Seminary Christ Over All David Stephen Schrock, A Biblical-Theological Investigation of Christ's Priesthood and Covenant Mediation with Respect to the Extent of the Atonement, 2013.

Jacob expects a conflict with Esau but instead ends up wrestling with an unknown assailant, who can clearly best him at any moment. But when that moment comes, Jacob will not release his hold until he receives a blessing. The content of that blessing points to the God who will not forsake Jacob and will fulfill his covenant promises.

Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Matthew S. Harmon, Professor of New Testament studies at Grace College and Theological Seminary. Camden Bucey engages Dr. Harmon in an exploration of his book, The Servant of the Lord and His Servant People, which explores the theme of servanthood across the biblical canon, offering insightful perspectives on this pervasive and significant motif​​. During the episode, Dr. Harmon surveys several key biblical figures identified as servants of the Lord, including Adam, Moses, Joshua, David, and Jesus. The conversation also touches upon the New Testament, specifically Paul's self-identification with the servant of the Lord described in Isaiah. Dr. Harmon elucidates how Paul, and by extension, the Christian church, embody this servant role through Christ's indwelling, thereby continuing the mission of revealing God's glory to the ends of the earth​​. This episode promises to offer listeners profound insights into the biblical concept of servanthood and its implications for understanding both the Old and New Testaments, as well as its relevance for the Christian life today. Links Rebels and Exiles: A Biblical Theology of Sin and Restoration The Various and Sundry Podcast Biblical Theology Briefing Podcast

Since 2008, we have been taking time around New Year's Day to bring you some of the top moments from the preceding year. We have several great clips lined up for you today. The Top Episodes of 2023 (by YouTube views) Dan Ragusa — Preterism and 2 Peter 3 (YouTube) Gray Sutanto and Cory Brock — A Theological Introduction to Neo-Calvinism (YouTube) Greg Beale — The New Testament Use of the Old Testament (YouTube) Carlton Wynne — Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion (YouTube) Camden Bucey — The Importance of Cornelius Van Til for Today (YouTube) Jim Cassidy — Introducing and Interpreting Karl Barth (YouTube) Danny Olinger — Christianity and Liberalism: Introduction (YouTube) Lane Tipton — Exitus and Reditus in the Theology of Thomas Aquinas (YouTube) Jonathan Master — Reformed Theology (YouTube) Michael Beck — Covenant Theology and Cultural Engagement in the Thought of Meredith G. Kline(YouTube)

For our Eighth Annual Christmas Special, Rob and Bob are here to bring you Christmas cheer with our annual Christmas silliness. This year we laugh about Christmas delicacies and the weird things we do at this season of the year ". . . because it's Christm

Join us in this episode of Christ the Center, where host Camden Bucey engages in a free-flowing yet thoughtful discussion with Dr. Owen Anderson, philosopher and professor of religious studies at Arizona State University and pastor of Historic Christian Church in Phoenix. The conversation centers around the nuanced relationship between philosophy, religion, and the concept of free speech within academia and broader American culture. The episode explores the current state of freedom of speech in higher education, highlighting its importance and the obstacles it faces today. Dr. Anderson shares his views on the roles of natural and revealed religion in American philosophical and legal traditions, and how these ideas have influenced the country's development. Listeners will also appreciate the exploration of Common Sense Realism and its impact on the ideological framework of the American Founding Fathers. This episode provides a reflective look into the challenges of articulating and understanding truth in an increasingly complex age. Listen in for a conversation that offers insightful perspectives on the intersections of philosophy, religion, and free speech in the modern era. Links Dr. Owen Anderson on Substack The Cambridge Companion to the First Amendment and Religious Liberty FIRE's Guide to Free Speech on Campus

In this episode, we're excited to unveil the inaugural lesson of our new series, exploring the profound depths of the Pentateuch—the first five books of the Bible. Under the able guidance of Dr. Mark Winder, we'll embark on an enlightening journey through six comprehensive, yet accessible, biblical-theological lessons, offering fresh insights into this foundational portion of Scripture. As we introduce this captivating course, join Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey for a reflective update on our year-end projects. We also extend a heartfelt invitation to support our mission through the 'Planting for the Future' campaign. Your generous contributions are pivotal in helping Reformed Forum continue to offer an array of free, high-quality Reformed theological resources to a global audience. Discover more and contribute to our cause at Reformed Forum's donation page (https://www.reformedforum.org/donate).

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We turn to chapter XX, "Conversion: Repentance & Faith." This week we continue our discussion how Berkhof addre

In this installment of Vos Group, Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss pp. 330–333 of Geerhardus Vos' book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. In this section, Vos focuses on the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, a pivotal event in the Gospels. Vos examines various interpretations and challenges to the historicity and objectivity of this event, discussing theories that view it as mythological or parabolic. He argues for its historical and objective reality, using scriptural references such as Matthew 12:29 to support his view. Vos emphasizes the dual nature of the event as both a temptation by Satan and a probation by God, underscoring its importance in the Messianic mission of Jesus. He contrasts this with the temptation of Adam in Genesis, noting differences in their respective contexts and purposes. Vos also explores the implications of the event on the understanding of Jesus' sinlessness and His role in atonement. Throughout, he maintains a theological perspective that situates the temptation within the broader narrative of redemption and Christ's mission.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Bob returns to a reading of Geerhardus Vos's 1903 book, The Teaching of Jesus Concerning the Kingdom of God and the Church. Chapter 8, "The Essence of the Kingdom continued: The Kingdom as a State of Bl

In this episode, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy dive into a variety of topics answering questions submitted by listeners and viewers of the program. Topics covered range from theological discussions, such as the role of Jesus' intercession for the elect and non-elect within the visible church​​, to historical and exegetical considerations, like the understanding of the Old Covenant as the Mosaic administration of the covenant of grace​​.

Dr. Michael Beck joins us to speak about his book, Covenant Lord and Cultic Boundary: A Dialectic Inquiry Concerning Meredith Kline and the Reformed Two-Kingdom Project (Wipf and Stock), which is a theological exploration of the ideas of Meredith Kline and their impact on the Reformed Two-Kingdom Project. The book provides a literature review of relevant works on the topic and highlights the broader universe of discourse in which this study exists. In the book and in this conversation, Dr. Beck offers a unique analysis of Kline's theology and its practical implications for contemporary Christian life and practice. Michael Beck is a pastor at Gracenet Community Church as well as a lecturer of Old Testament and biblical theology at Grace Theological College (New Zealand). Dr. Beck earned his PhD from the South African Theological Seminary Michael also co-hosts the Two-Age Sojourner podcast.

In this installment of Vos Group, Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss pp. 322–329 of Geerhardus Vos' book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. In this section, Vos discusses John's testimony of Jesus after his baptism. The testimony of John the Baptist as depicted in the Gospel of John emphasizes Jesus' unique divine nature and eternal preexistence, distinguishing him from all others in redemptive history. This underlines John's role as the one preparing the way for Jesus, who fulfills Old Testament prophecies as the sacrificial Lamb of God. It also highlights the immutable deity of Christ, who, despite his incarnation, remains unchanged in his divine essence. The narrative showcases Jesus' baptism as an act of vicarious repentance and affirms his authority to bestow the Spirit, underscoring the theological depth of his identity and mission as witnessed by John the Baptist.

In the latest episode of Christ the Center, we explore the fascinating intersection of science, faith, and philosophy through the life and contributions of Robert Boyle, the seventeenth-century chemist often dubbed the father of modern chemistry. Our guest, Dr. Edward B. Davis, Professor Emeritus of the History of Science at Messiah University, shares his extensive knowledge on Boyle's experiments, the development of Boyle's Law, and the broader implications of Boyle's work on the relationship between emerging scientific disciplines and religious thought. We also delve into the historical context of Boyle's era, his influence on the mechanical philosophy, and how his devout Anglican faith shaped his understanding of the natural world. Listen as we explore the complex relationship of how scientific inquiry and religious belief have related throughout history. Edward B. Davis on ResearchGate Robert Boyle, the Bible, and Natural Philosophy

What is a Christian to do with the imprecatory Psalms? Are they to be read and sung today, and if so, with what understanding? Jim Cassidy talks about how to situate the Psalms within their redemptive-historical context, instead of reading them in the abstract.

After recording a course on the subject for Reformed Academy, Dr. Carlton Wynne comes to the podcast studio to discuss John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion. Topics covered include Calvin's theology, the right ordering of knowledge, general and special revelation, the effects of the fall on human reasoning, natural theology, and comparisons to the thought of Thomas Aquinas and Cornelius Van Til. Carlton also shares about his experience as a pastor-theologian and his talk on maintaining true religion in a modernist world at the recent Reformation Worship Conference. The conversation touches on the legacy of J. Gresham Machen and the need for the church to guard the good deposit of faith.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob continue their discussion of the future of Israel? With geopolitical affairs in the Middle East as they are currently and the end times speculations that arise and questions as to how Christians should think of the nation-state of Israel, we discuss the promises regarding the land of Israel, Israel as a nation, the promises to Abraham and his seed, that is Christ, and Romans 11.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob continue their discussion of the future of Israel? With geopolitical affairs in the Middle East as they are currently and the end times speculations that arise and questions as to how Christians should think of the nation-state of Israel, we discuss the promises regarding the land of Israel, Israel as a nation, the promises to Abraham and his seed, that is Christ, and Romans 11.

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey offer an update regarding several projects and initiatives at Reformed Forum including the launch of Kevin Chiarot's course on 1 Peter. We include the first lesson of the course, which is available for free on reformedforum.org and on YouTube. In the first lesson, Dr. Chiarot teaches on the elect exiles Peter addresses in 1 Peter 1:1–2.

Dr. D. G. Hart lectured at the Reformed Forum Theology Conference held at Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois on October 7, 2023. The conference theme was "100 Years of Christianity and Liberalism: J. Gresham Machen's Theological Legacy." The occasion was the one-hundredth anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen's Christianity and Liberalism. Conference speakers Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Lane Tipton, and D. G. Hart took the opportunity to consider Machen's unique contributions by exploring several covenantal, eschatological, and historical themes that intersect with his work. Visit https://www.reformedforum.org/rf23 for more information about the event. This lecture is made available for free through the generous support of Harvest USA. Harvest USA's purpose is to partner with and equip the Church in bringing the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to transform the lives of those affected by sexual sin. Please visit https://harvestusa.org/ for more information.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss the future of Israel? With geopolitical affairs in the Middle East as they are currently and the end times speculations that arise and questions as to how Christians should think of the nation-sta

Dr. Lane Tipton lectured at the Reformed Forum Theology Conference held at Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois on October 7, 2023. The conference theme was "100 Years of Christianity and Liberalism: J. Gresham Machen's Theological Legacy." The occasion was the one-hundredth anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen's Christianity and Liberalism. Conference speakers Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Lane Tipton, and D. G. Hart took the opportunity to consider Machen's unique contributions by exploring several covenantal, eschatological, and historical themes that intersect with his work. Visit https://www.reformedforum.org/rf23 for more information about the event. This lecture is made available for free through the generous support of Harvest USA. Harvest USA's purpose is to partner with and equip the Church in bringing the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to transform the lives of those affected by sexual sin. Please visit https://harvestusa.org/ for more information.

Dr. Jim Cassidy lectured at the Reformed Forum Theology Conference held at Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois on October 7, 2023. The conference theme was "100 Years of Christianity and Liberalism: J. Gresham Machen's Theological Legacy." The occasion was the one-hundredth anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen's Christianity and Liberalism. Conference speakers Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Lane Tipton, and D. G. Hart took the opportunity to consider Machen's unique contributions by exploring several covenantal, eschatological, and historical themes that intersect with his work. Visit https://www.reformedforum.org/rf23 for more information about the event. This lecture is made available for free through the generous support of Harvest USA. Harvest USA's purpose is to partner with and equip the Church in bringing the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to transform the lives of those affected by sexual sin. Please visit https://harvestusa.org/ for more information.

Dr. Camden Bucey lectured at the Reformed Forum Theology Conference held at Hope Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grayslake, Illinois on October 7, 2023. The conference theme was "100 Years of Christianity and Liberalism: J. Gresham Machen's Theological Legacy." The occasion was the one-hundredth anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen's Christianity and Liberalism. Conference speakers Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Lane Tipton, and D. G. Hart took the opportunity to consider Machen's unique contributions by exploring several covenantal, eschatological, and historical themes that intersect with his work. Visit https://www.reformedforum.org/rf23 for more information about the event. This lecture is made available for free through the generous support of Harvest USA. Harvest USA's purpose is to partner with and equip the Church in bringing the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to transform the lives of those affected by sexual sin. Please visit https://harvestusa.org/ for more information.

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey reflect on the recent Reformed Forum Theology Conference on J. Gresham Machen's Christianity and Liberalism before turning to a discussion of their new booklet, Unfolding Redemption: Exploring the History and Order of Salvation.

Jeff McDonald introduces several significant points about William Jennings Bryan, including his early life and upbringing in a strong evangelical tradition, his belief that schools and universities posed a problem to religious freedom, and his concern that students could be led away from faith into unbelief if they fell under the influence of mind worshipers. The author also notes Bryan's political career and his advocacy for economic and religious freedom, as well as his influence on the Democratic party and his ongoing relevance to current political issues. Jeffrey McDonald is a Presbyterian minister, historian, and author of John Gerstner and the Renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed Evangelicalism in Modern America (Wipf & Stock, 2017). Richard M. Gamble is Professor of History and holds the Anna Margaret Ross Alexander Chair in History and Politics at Hillsdale College. Links David W. Beggington, ed., The Gospel and Religious Freedom: Historical Studies in Evangelicalism and Political Engagement (Baylor University Press) Christ the Center episode 776 — Melvin Grove Kyle, J. Gresham Machen, and the League of Evangelical Students Christ the Center episode 599 — John Gerstner and the Renewal of Presbyterian and Reformed Evangelicalism Christ the Center episode 593 — The Battle Hymn of the Republic and Civil Religion Books Jeffrey S. McDonald, "Advancing the Evangelical Mind: Melvin Grove Kyle, J. Gresham Machen, and the League of Evangelical Students" A Fiery Gospel: The Battle Hymn of the Republic and the Road to Righteous War (Religion and American Public Life) The War for Righteousness: Progressive Christianity, the Great War, and the Rise of the Messianic Nation. Wilmington, DE: ISI Books, 2003. The Great Tradition: Classic Readings on What It Means to be an Educated Human Being. Wilmington, DE: ISI Books, 2007. In Search of the City on a Hill: The Making and Unmaking of an American Myth. New York: Continuum/Bloomsbury, 2012.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We turn to chapter XX, "Conversion: Repentance & Faith." This week we discuss how Berkhof addresses the doctrine of conversion.

Camden Bucey recently lectured on "The Importance of Van Til for Today" for the OPC's Presbytery of Michigan and Ontario at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, MI. Jim Cassidy and Camden discuss the main points of the lecture before we turn to a recording of the lecture and its accompanying Q&A session. Cornelius Van Til (1895–1987) has shaped the field of Reformed apologetics, drawing upon the strengths of Old Amsterdam and Old Princeton. But his impact extends beyond apologetics, affecting broader theological discussions and the identity of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. In this lecture, we explore the enduring relevance of Van Til's work and thought, analyzing his theological contributions against the backdrop of his historical context while tracing their resonance in our own. Download the handout

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Bruce Baugus to our program to discuss his book, The Roots of Reformed Moral Theology, published by Reformation Heritage Books. In this comprehensive work, Dr. Baugus delves into the foundational elements that have shaped moral theology within the Reformed tradition. He provides both historical and theological contexts, covering a range of topics including the Old Testament's influence on Reformed moral thought, the significance of the Ten Commandments, the Reformation's impact on moral theology, and its evolution in the modern era. Additionally, Dr. Baugus explores the practical applications of Reformed moral theology for contemporary Christian living. This conversation serves as a continuation of a dialogue that began during our online Symposium on Reformed Moral Theology, held in August 2023. In the symposium's concluding session, Dr. Baugus and Dr. David VanDrunen each presented their perspectives on the role of law in the Gospels, with a particular focus on the Sermon on the Mount as recorded in the Book of Matthew. The session also featured an interactive discussion between the two scholars and T. David Gordon. Dr. Bruce P. Baugus is Professor of Systematic Theology & Apologetics at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He earned a PhD in Philosophical Theology from Calvin Theological Seminary (2009) and served on the faculty of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi, for fourteen years (2008–2022) prior to joining Puritan Reformed. He is also the editor of China's Reforming Churches (RHB, 2014) and has contributed numerous chapters, articles, and papers. Dr. David VanDrunen is Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary California.

This is an audio podcast of "Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism," taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of God's Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you're excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 18. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell? A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell consists in the guilt of Adam's first sin, the want of original righteousness, and the corruption of his whole nature, which is commonly called original sin; together with all actual transgressions which proceed from it.

In this episode, we welcome back Michael Glodo, Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. Rev. Glodo has written The Lord Bless You and Keep You (Crossway), a new book on the Aaronic blessing of Numbers 6:24–26. We discuss several biblical-theological and practical implications for contemporary faith and practice including what it means to behold the face of God. We also explore how the person and work of Jesus secures the blessing on our behalf.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We turn to chapter XIX, Calling and Regeneration. This week we discuss the doctrine of regeneration.

This is an audio podcast of "Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism," taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of God's Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you're excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 17. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind? A. The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery.

Today, we turn to pages 318–322 of Vos's Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to explore the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. Our goal is to offer a nuanced understanding by identifying both the similarities and differences between John's baptism of Jesus and the baptisms John performed upon the people. Vos aims to steer clear of two misconceptions: the first being that Jesus's baptism and the people's baptisms were entirely distinct events, and the second that they were essentially the same. The baptism of Jesus holds dual significance. Firstly, it serves as a public and objective revelation of the Holy Spirit's glory, manifested as the Spirit descended from heaven onto Jesus. Secondly, it has a sacramental meaning for Jesus himself, as he received something from the Spirit that furthered his earthly mission, which was a journey of suffering leading to glory. In addition, we'll examine the connection between Jesus's baptism and his role as the Messiah, offering insights into both pneumatology—the study of the Holy Spirit—and eschatology—the study of end times.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We turn to chapter XIX, Calling and Regeneration. This week we discuss the doctrine of calling, general and effectual.

This is an audio podcast of "Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism," taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of God's Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you're excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 16. Did all mankind fall in Adam's first transgression? A. The covenant being made with Adam, not only for himself, but for his posterity; all mankind, descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell with him, in his first transgression.