Reformed Forum

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

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today's episode, under the larger section, "The Doctrine of the Last Things," we a conclude our discussion of chapter XXX, the last chapter "The Resurrection, the Last Judgement, and the Final State."

This is the eighth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 The Son of God Coming in the Fullness of Time 1:44 The Holy Spirit Indwells His People 5:40 The Great Commission 10:43 Sharing in Christ's Anointing Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

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

This is the seventh lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Shift from Promise to Fulfillment 2:24 Jesus as the True Temple 8:28 The Resurrection and Ascension 13:22 Being Drawn Heavenward by Christ Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this episode we welcome Dr. Jean Decorvet and Dr. Kenneth Stewart to explore The Geneva Réveil, a significant yet often overlooked nineteenth-century evangelical revival that reshaped French-speaking Protestantism and left a lasting global impact. We discuss the origins, theological dynamics, and international reach of this movement, featured in the new volume, The Geneva Réveil in International Perspective. Dr. Decorvet shares personal insights, including his family's connection to Adolphe Monod—known as "the voice of the revival"—while Dr. Stewart highlights the fascinating transatlantic ties between the Réveil and American Presbyterianism. The conversation considers the blend of warm piety and Reformed orthodoxy that fueled the movement, its influence on hymnody, social reform (including the founding of the Red Cross), and the broader currents of nineteenth-century evangelicalism. Listen to discover how the Geneva Réveil not only revitalized Francophone Protestantism but also shaped the course of global missions, theological education, and the enduring legacy of Reformed thought. Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:05:32 Familiarity with the Genevan Reveil 00:11:31 European Roots of the Evangelical Free Church 00:12:50 Historical Background and Context 00:17:52 Unique Aspects of the Genevan Reveil 00:22:02 Pietism and Calvinist Orthodoxy 00:28:53 The Reveil and Theological Liberalism 00:31:33 The Far-Reaching Effects of the Reveil 00:38:12 Roman Catholicism and the Reveil 00:44:17 American Presbyterian Influence on the Reveil 00:50:41 Louis Gaussen's Influence 00:58:49 Looking to the Future 01:01:59 Conclusion

This is the sixth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 In the Days of Kings 4:14 God Sends His People into Exile 9:55 Promises of the New Covenant, New Jerusalem, and New Temple 16:09 Return from Exile Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In our weekly livestream for March 7, 2025, Camden Bucey first speaks with Jonathan Master about the upcoming Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary conference focused on pastoral ministry. They explore the theological significance of the pastoral office and the communal aspects of the conference. In the second segment, Bucey speaks with David Noe, Tyson Watson, and Joan Crist about an innovative project centered on Calvin's Latin Bible. The panel details their collaborative work to make this important historical text more accessible to contemporary readers. They address the challenges of translation, their quality control processes, and the technological solutions they've developed. Joan Crist shares her personal journey to Reformed theology and explains how their project includes resources for learning Latin while engaging with Reformed theological traditions. The conversation highlights the enduring importance of liturgy and Latin in theological education, while offering insights into future developments of their digital platform. To learn more: GPTS Conference: The Pastor: His Call, Character, and Work Calvin's Latin Bible: Latin Per Diem Video Introduction: YouTube

In this episode we turn to Geerhardus Vos's discussion on divine fatherhood as presented in Biblical Theology (pp. 365–369). Vos masterfully traces the theme of God's fatherhood from the Old Testament to the New, demonstrating both its continuity and the profound transformation it undergoes in Jesus' teaching. We explore key theological distinctions, including: The development from a national to an individual application of fatherhood The redemptive, rather than universal, nature of divine sonship Jesus' unique relationship with the Father and its implications for believers The eschatological significance of adoption into God's family Along the way, we challenge modern misconceptions about the fatherhood of God and discuss why Vos firmly rejects the notion of universal divine fatherhood. Join us as we uncover the richness of this biblical doctrine and consider its implications for the Christian life. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo. Chapters 00:07 Introduction 05:31 The Divine Fatherhood of God 10:37 Biblical References to God as Father 14:13 God as a Father to the Nation of Israel 17:26 The Scope of Divine Fatherhood 21:38 Divine Fatherhood Is Not a Macro-Attribute 24:26 The Redemptive and Eschatological Nature of Divine Fatherhood 29:45 God Relating to Believers as Father 34:23 Clarifications on Alleged Universal Fatherhood 38:37 Expansion of the Concept in the New Covenant 43:50 The Practical Import of Divine Fatherhood 46:59 Conclusion This is Christ the Center episode 897 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc897)

What happens when you leave the people of God and venture to a far country? And when tragedy strikes there, is there any hope that God's grace can restore what sin has devastated? Welcome to the book of Ruth, where we find curse and death but also God's amazing grace. Ruth reveals the power of God's grace in Christ to bring fullness where there was emptiness.

This is the fifth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 2:53 Entering the Promised Land 6:17 King David and the Tabernacle 9:29 Temple in Jerusalem Built by Solomon 14:54 Looking Forward to the New Jerusalem Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this livestreamed conversation, Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, and Dan Borvan discuss various topics including the recent Reformed Forum seminar in Oklahoma City, office tchotchkes, the announcement of a new book, and the pressing issue of ministerial training and the shortage of pastors in the Reformed community. They explore the implications of these challenges and share insights on how to address them moving forward. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of ministry, focusing on the reluctance of young men to relocate for vocational opportunities, the changing mindset towards ministry, and the need for proactive measures in raising future church leaders. They explore the challenges faced by churches in declining areas, the potential solutions such as merging congregations and bivocational ministry, and the future of ministerial education and credentialing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 05:04 Reflections on the Oklahoma City Seminar 09:33 Office Items and Fun Conversations 15:30 Announcement of New Book and Upcoming Conference 17:24 Discussion on Ministerial Training Crisis 26:31 The Reluctance to Relocate for Ministry 29:18 The Changing Mindset of Ministry Aspirants 33:24 Raising Up Future Leaders in the Church 39:22 Challenges of Supporting Ministers in Declining Areas 44:08 Exploring Solutions: Merging Churches and Bivocational Ministry 50:04 The Future of Ministerial Education and Credentialing

In this special live recording of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, Jim Cassidy, and guest Marcus Mininger explore the vital topic of redemptive historical interpretation. Dr. Mininger is Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Mid-America Reformed Seminary and author of Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26: Discovering a New Approach to Paul's Argument (Mohr Siebeck). Recorded in Oklahoma City as part of Reformed Forum's Redemptive History Seminar, this discussion examines how Scripture should be read and understood through the lens of God's unfolding revelation in Christ. Dr. Mininger provides fresh insights into Romans 1–3, uncovering the biblical theme of revelation and how it shapes our understanding of God's righteousness. The conversation also tackles Hebrews 6, a notoriously difficult passage, through a redemptive historical framework—showing why a return to the Old Covenant is both impossible and perilous. Throughout the episode, the panel reflects on the importance of a Christ-centered hermeneutic, the role of Scripture as its own interpreter, and how biblical theology helps believers grasp the grand narrative of redemption. The discussion concludes with engaging audience questions, further unpacking key interpretive challenges. Join us for this rich theological discussion and discover how reading Scripture in its redemptive historical context deepens our understanding of God's Word. Chapters 00:00:07 Welcome and Introduction 00:04:01 Introduction to the Live Podcast Session 00:07:02 What is Redemptive Historical Interpretation? 00:13:23 The Importance of a Christ-Centered Hermeneutic 00:20:13 Understanding Paul's Argument in Romans 1-3 00:34:36 Exploring the Theme of Revelation in Romans 00:54:06 The Bible as Its Own Interpreter 01:00:21 A Redemptive Historical Reading of Hebrews 6 01:08:44 The "Jetway" Illustration for the Old and New Covenants 01:11:45 Audience Questions and Discussion

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today's episode, under the larger section, "The Doctrine of the Last Things," we a discussion of chapter XXX, the last chapter "The Resurrection, the Last Judgement, and the Final State."

This is the fourth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 1:21 Exodus from Egypt 5:40 Purpose of the Tabernacle 10:50 Pattern of the Tabernacle 15:28 The Tabernacle as Reflection of Creation and Future Glory Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Brian DeVries, a theologian and pastor in South Africa, about his new book, You Will Be My Witnesses, which explores the biblical and theological foundations of Christian witness, emphasizing the church's role in participating in God's redemptive mission. They discuss the complexities of the Christian and Reformed landscape in South Africa, the importance of witness in missions, and the connection between worship and witness. DeVries emphasizes the need for a solid theology of mission and the role of every believer as a witness to Christ. In this conversation, we explore the multifaceted nature of Christian witness, emphasizing its historical significance, the interplay of suffering and evangelism, and the importance of both word and deed in the church's mission. They discuss the need for boldness in witness, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the impact of personal experiences on understanding witness. Additionally, they highlight the work of Mukhanyo Theological College in training leaders for ministry in Southern Africa. Dr. Brian A. DeVries is a theologian, educator, and pastor with extensive experience in theological education and church planting. He earned his PhD from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and currently serves as the president of Mukhanyo Theological College in South Africa. In addition to his administrative role, Dr. DeVries is an adjunct professor of missiology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. Dr. DeVries has led three multiethnic church-planting teams in South Africa and currently serves as the pastor of Grace Reformed Church in Pretoria. He and his wife, Lanae, are blessed with five children.

This is the third lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Banished with a Promise 3:13 Covenant with Noah 5:26 Pilgrim Days of Abraham 9:35 Altar at Mount Moriah 14:45 Altar at Bethel Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

Camden Bucey is joined by Bo Collins and Joe Cristman to discuss various topics related to their churches, upcoming events, and personal library management. They also touch on exciting developments in the PCA, including church planting efforts in North Carolina, and introduce Joe's new YouTube channel, Take Up and Read, which focuses on literature and theology. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:11 News and Updates 08:50 Personal Library Management and Book Recommendations 17:04 Loaning Books 25:55 Office Knick-Knacks 40:41 PCA Updates 52:22 New Podcast: Take Up and Read 55:54 Conclusion

In this episode, we open pp. 360–365 of Geerhardus Vos's Biblical Theology to discuss his profound insights into Jesus's relationship with the Old Testament. How did Christ use the Scriptures in his teaching? What did he mean when he said he came to "fulfill" the law? And how does his doctrine of God affirm the continuity of divine revelation from the Old to the New Testament? Join us as we discuss: Jesus's unwavering affirmation of the Old Testament's authority His unique role in fulfilling and interpreting the law The significance of his divine self-awareness in shaping redemptive history How Vos defends the integrity of biblical revelation against modern critiques The depth of Jesus's teaching on the Fatherhood of God Whether you're a student of Reformed theology, a pastor, or simply curious about the biblical foundations of Christ's teaching, this episode offers a rich and insightful exploration of key theological themes. Tune in now and be equipped to see Scripture through the lens of redemptive history.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today's episode, under the larger section, "The Doctrine of the Last Things," we continue our discussion of chapter XXIX, "The Second Coming of Christ."

This is the second lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Creation 3:44 Covenant of Works 7:13 Fall 10:35 Covenant of Grace Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this conversation, Camden Bucey, Ryan Noha, Lane Tipton, and Scott Cook discuss various themes surrounding Reformed apologetics, particularly focusing on the critique of Cornelius Van Til's thought as presented in Keith Mathion's book. After highlighting Lane Tipton's new book Union with Christ: The Benefits of His Suffering and Glory, they explore the challenges of understanding Van Til's work, especially given his use of language and the philosophical context of his time. The discussion also touches on the relevance of Van Til's thought in contemporary apologetics and the importance of engaging with the limitations of human language in theology. Chapters 00:00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:06:53 Lane's New Book, Union with Christ 00:09:49 Van Til and Idealism 00:24:43 Critics of Van Til 00:38:28 Cunningham on Idealism 00:42:30 A Sale on Our Van Til Books 00:44:32 Van Til's Critique of Adam's False Ideal of Knowledge 00:47:46 Applying Van Til Today 00:57:01 Understanding Idealism 01:03:41 Conclusion

In this episode of Christ the Center, we engage in a thoughtful and rigorous discussion of Keith Mathison's book, Toward a Reformed Apologetics: A Critique of the Thought of Cornelius Van Til. Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey critically examine Mathison's interpretation of Van Til, particularly in relation to idealism, epistemology, and the noetic effects of sin. Throughout this episode, we explore key themes, including: The Alleged Influence of Idealism: Did Van Til borrow philosophical categories from absolute idealism, or did he consistently maintain a Reformed, biblically grounded epistemology? The Nature of Human Knowledge: Did Van Til argue that humans must know everything in order to know anything? Or is this a misreading of his critique of unbelieving thought? The Ethical Antithesis in Epistemology: How does covenant theology shape Van Til's apologetic system, and why is the ethical nature of knowledge crucial for understanding his method? The Role of Coherence and Correspondence in Van Til's Thought: Did Van Til adopt an idealist coherence theory of truth, or did he reject both coherence and correspondence theories as traditionally conceived? We also discuss broader implications for Reformed apologetics, the challenges of properly interpreting Van Til, and why these theological debates matter for defending the Christian faith today. While critiquing Mathison's arguments, we affirm the importance of engaging in these discussions with charity and precision. Join us as we work through these foundational issues and lay the groundwork for future conversations on Mathison's book and Van Til's apologetic legacy.

Checking in from Scottsdale, Arizona, Camden Bucey discusses the Faith and Life Conference on worship and the themes of his upcoming talks. He reflects on recent podcast episodes, including discussions on ancient Near Eastern hero culture and the significance of animal imagery in biblical texts. The stream also touches on ethical considerations surrounding pet euthanasia, distinctions between the Reformed and Presbyterian family trees. We even daydream about a hunting excursion for people into Reformed theology.

This is the first lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa's Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Theme of Immanuel 2:16 What is God's Covenant? 5:31 Heidelberg Catechism 19 7:11 Good News Revealed by God Himself 10:23 Good News Revealed Concerning the Son 13:43 Good News Revealed in History 16:34 Good News Revealed Progressively Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

Join us for a fascinating conversation on biblical imagery. Dr. Michael Seufert, pastor at Mission OPC in St. Paul, Minnesota, and author of the dissertation Of Beasts and Men: A Study of Genesis 49 in Light of Iconography, Metaphor, and Animal Studies, guides us through the rich tapestry of ancient Near Eastern hero culture and its implications for understanding Scripture. We explore Genesis 49, Jacob's poetic blessing, and its striking use of animal metaphors, unpacking themes of violence, power, and divine faithfulness. Dr. Seufert highlights the ambivalence in biblical heroism, contrasting the lion-like strength of Judah with the paradoxical power of the Lamb in Revelation. Dan Svendsen, pastor of First OPC in South Holland, Illinois, also provides his perspective as a preacher immersed in the narratives of 1 Samuel. Together, we examine how the stories of David and Judah resonate with biblical themes of leadership, humility, and redemption, offering additional depth and richness to our understanding of hero culture in the Bible. With insights into the cultural, theological, and practical applications of these themes, we discuss how the church today can embrace the counterintuitive way of weakness modeled by Christ. This collaborative discussion bridges rigorous scholarship and pastoral application, offering profound encouragement for the Christian life. Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:10:04 Michael Seufert's Academic Journey 00:25:47 Understanding Hero Culture in Scripture 00:35:43 The Wilderness of Empire and Violence 00:38:58 Animal Imagery in Biblical Power Dynamics 00:41:29 The Complexity of Judah's Legacy 00:48:20 Lessons from Jacob and David 00:59:16 Embracing Christ's Path to Victory 01:09:23 Conclusion

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. On today's episode, under the larger section, "The Doctrine of the Last Things," we continue our discussion of chapter XXIX, "The Second Coming of Christ."