TGC Podcast

David Wells is one of the most influential theologians you’ve never heard of, helping to spark the Reformed resurgence 30 years ago. But if you’d met him as a child—a nonChristian growing up in Africa during the days of British colonialism—you never would’ve guessed the moves God would lead him through. Send us your feedback on today's episode (and tell us if you'd like to hear more interviews like this one) at [email protected] Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ligon Duncan delivered a message from Mark 7:24-30 at the Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “A Pagan Woman Who Understands Grace.” In his message, Duncan addressed what the passage teaches about Jesus’s mission and what the Syrophoenician woman’s response teaches about his person.The response of the disciples and even Jesus’s own words in response to the woman pleading with him for mercy are shocking, to say the least. Yet, after further review, the interchange reveals a pagan woman who understood grace in a way that even Jesus’s own followers did not and offers us the opportunity to do the same. This episode of The Gospel Coalition Podcast is brought to you by Operation Christmas Child. You can build a shoebox online and OCC will pack for you based on your selections. These shoeboxes are delivered into hard-to-reach areas in and effort to share the gospel. To start building, visit Samaritanspurse.org/occ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Al Mohler delivered a message in a breakout session at TGC’s 2019 National Conference titled “Why Younger Generations Should Invest in Institutions.” Culture in general, he argued, is moving toward an anti-institutional future as generations who do not value institutions grow older. They prefer movements to shape their identity rather than institutions. But institutions are the control centers of societies, culture is produced by institutions, and there is no civilization without institutions. Movements that do not eventually institutionalize fade away, as they lack the lasting stewardship necessary to survive. Christianity is no different. A walk through the scriptures reveals that Israel and the church are defined in institutional terms, and we must embrace those institutional realities in order to preserve and build our great faith.This episode of TGC Podcast is brought to you by Operation Christmas Child. National Collection Week is November 16th through 23rd. Visit SamaritansPurse.org/occ to learn how gift-filled shoeboxes will result in evangelism and discipleship for millions of children this year. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John Onwuchekwa delivered a message in a breakout session at TGC’s 2019 National Conference titled “How Praying Together Shapes the Church.” Prayer both teaches and displays dependance on God in the most practical manner possible in the life of a believer. Utilizing the story of Christ’s interaction with his disciples and with the Father through prayer in Gethsemane, Onwuchekwa delineated Jesus’s prayerfulness as a regular practice and his desire to invite the disciples into his weakness—his full dependance on God. Facing the greatest adversity he would ever encounter, Jesus showed his followers the necessary way of preparation. Onwuchekwa encouraged the church to prioritize the practice of prayer so that we might also be strengthened for the adversity ahead.This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is sponsored by The Good Book Company, publisher of The Christmas We Didn't Expect by David Mathis. 25 daily reflections for Advent will help you to adore Jesus—the one who came to save us and make our futures certain. Learn more at thegoodbook.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"What captivates your heart moves you to act."Glen Scrivener delivered a message in a workshop at the Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “How to Captivate the Imagination in Evangelism.” He discussed the role of the heart—and its imaginations—in shaping the decisive outcome of a person’s life, including the decision to respond to an evangelistic invitation. Scrivener discussed the biblical underpinnings of the idea and offered examples of creative evangelism, such as storytelling, with this idea at its core.This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is sponsored by The Good Book Company, publisher of The Christmas We Didn't Expect by David Mathis. 25 daily reflections for Advent will help you to adore Jesus—the one who came to save us and make our futures certain. Learn more at thegoodbook.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mike Cosper delivered a message during a workshop at the Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “Made in the Image of God for the Good of the World.” During the session, he discussed the image of God and many of the characteristics of our Creator people are meant to reflect. Cosper then detailed three ways that reflecting the image of God is meant to bring about good in the world around us. This episode of The Gospel Coalition Podcast is brought to you by Crossway, publisher of 'Weep with Me: How Lament Opens a Door for Racial Reconciliation' by Mark Vroegop. Discover the meaning of Romans 12:15 that calls us to “weep with those who weep” as Mark seeks to bridge the canyon of misunderstanding, insensitivity, and hurt through the biblical practice of lament. Each chapter closes with a prayer of lament from a Christian leader, such as Trillia Newbell, Thabiti Anyabwile, Jarvis Williams, Danny Akin, and more. For 30% off this book and all other books and Bibles at Crossway, sign up for a free Crossway+ account at crossway.org/TGC. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kristie Anyabwile delivered a message during a workshop at TGC’s 2018 Women’s Conference titled “Living as Titus 2 Women in a Romans 1 World.” Utilizing these two passages of Scripture, Anyabwile presents the problem and offers a solution—that we are living in a state of emergency and we need older and younger women who will actively invest in one another, respectively. The solution, she argues, would not only build the strength of believers to stand against sin, but also serve as a platform for Christian women to participate in the Great Commission, drawing others in need of Christ through the representation and declaration of the gospel. This episode of The Gospel Coalition Podcast is brought to you by Crossway, publisher of 'Weep with Me: How Lament Opens a Door for Racial Reconciliation' by Mark Vroegop. Discover the meaning of Romans 12:15 that calls us to “weep with those who weep” as Mark seeks to bridge the canyon of misunderstanding, insensitivity, and hurt through the biblical practice of lament. Each chapter closes with a prayer of lament from a Christian leader, such as Trillia Newbell, Thabiti Anyabwile, Jarvis Williams, Danny Akin, and more. For 30% off this book and all other books and Bibles at Crossway, sign up for a free Crossway+ account at crossway.org/TGC. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this bonus episode, Collin Hansen and David Platt discuss the upcoming election, and what Christians should consider before voting—trusting in Jesus, no matter the outcome. To listen to the full conversation, check out Gospelbound on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Show Notes: Elections have consequences, but not nearly as much as we probably think. That's what Collin Hansen concluded after reading David Platt's new book, Before You Vote: Seven Questions Every Christian Should Ask, published by Radical. Here's a sober dose of biblical reality from Platt in the book: "Even if we lose every freedom and protection we have as followers of Jesus in the United States, and even if our government were to become a completely totalitarian regime, we could still live in abundant life as long as we didn't look to political leaders, platforms or policies for our ultimate security and satisfaction."It's not exactly the way you run fundraising and get out the vote operations in today's American politics, but Platt's book includes lots of counter-cultural advice, saturated with biblical references on humility, freedom, and duty, along with David's characteristic perspective informed by the global church. Platt serves as lead pastor of McLean Bible Church in Northern Virginia, a congregation where employment for many depends on the outcome of the November elections. David joins Collin on Gospelbound to discuss voting, abortion, and President Trump's visit to McLean Bible Church. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Danny Akin delivered a message in The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Pre-Conference titled “Little Global Hearts: How to Give Kids a Vision for the World.” Akin began with the eye-opening truth that, in 2019, still half of the world’s population was unreached with the gospel. Reaching them with the Good News will require believers who are raised up to be passionate about the Great Commission. Akin addressed a common question for many Christian parents, “How do we embed Great Commission DNA into our children?” by laying out ten practical principles for instilling into them a lifelong passion for Christ and the lost. This episode of The Gospel Coalition Podcast is brought to you by Crossway, publisher of 'Weep with Me: How Lament Opens a Door for Racial Reconciliation' by Mark Vroegop. Discover the meaning of Romans 12:15 that calls us to “weep with those who weep” as Mark seeks to bridge the canyon of misunderstanding, insensitivity, and hurt through the biblical practice of lament. Each chapter closes with a prayer of lament from a Christian leader, such as Trillia Newbell, Thabiti Anyabwile, Jarvis Williams, Danny Akin, and more. For 30% off this book and all other books and Bibles at Crossway, sign up for a free Crossway+ account at crossway.org/TGC. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Our team at The Gospel Coalition is excited to welcome As In Heaven into our podcast network. As In Heaven, hosted by Jim Davis and Michael Aitcheson, features conversations on race and justice with more than two-dozen ministry leaders. These discussions aim to help listeners process racial justice in a biblical, historical, and relational way.We pray that our spheres of influence would be places that look more like God’s kingdom—where love reigns, humanity flourishes, and Christ is glorified.As in Heaven: A Conversation on Race and Justice is available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and anywhere you listen to your podcasts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dan Doriani delivered a message in a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “Only Be Strong and Courageous: Why Every Pastor Needs a Tender Heart and a Tough Hide.” The workshop explored the unique challenges faced by pastors, including five separate types of criticism. Doriani presented a composite of leaders in Scripture who are both “strong and courageous” and willing to “weep with those who weep,” Christ himself as the greatest example of one who was tough and enduring but also deeply loved those he shepherded. He also offered comfort from Scripture for hurting pastors dealing with these inevitable issues. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is brought to you by Crossway, publisher of 'Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church ' by bestselling author, Paul David Tripp. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Tripp offers 12 gospel principles to help churches battle the issue lurking behind every pastoral failure—a lack of a strong leadership community. Sign up for a free Crossway+ account by Thursday, October 15, and enjoy 40 percent of this book at crossway.org/PaulTripp. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Parenting is much more than controlling the behavior of your children. Parenting is actually about heart exposure and heart change. We know only Jesus Christ can create the kind of lasting change in the human heart that will transform behavior. In this workshop, Paul Tripp (author of Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family) speaks on how to let the gospel shape what you say and do with the children who have been entrusted to your care.View this episode on TGC's website, originally released on May 26, 2017. Find more from TGC on this topic:Parenting with a Big Gospel PictureThe Down-to-Earth Gospel for ParentingHow to Raise Changing Children in a Changing CultureHow God Grows Us Through Parenting (video)Engaging Children’s Hearts So They Live for the Glory of God (audio) This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is brought to you by Crossway, publisher of 'Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church ' by bestselling author, Paul David Tripp. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Tripp offers 12 gospel principles to help churches battle the issue lurking behind every pastoral failure—a lack of a strong leadership community. Sign up for a free Crossway+ account by Thursday, October 15, and enjoy 40 percent of this book at crossway.org/PaulTripp. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rico Tice delivered a message in a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “Honest Evangelism: How to Talk About Jesus Even When It’s Tough.” The workshop explored the issues that make talking about Jesus difficult, such as doing the hard work of pursuing the lost and overcoming the fact that Christians are simply weird in the eyes of those around us. Tice also addressed four common responses Christians share in Britain to tougher settings for sharing the gospel that likely correspond with other Western settings, as well. And he encourages the church to develop soft hearts and tough skin around the simple idea that people without Christ spend eternity separated from God in a very real Hell. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is brought to you by Crossway, publisher of 'Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church ' by bestselling author, Paul David Tripp. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Tripp offers 12 gospel principles to help churches battle the issue lurking behind every pastoral failure—a lack of a strong leadership community. Sign up for a free Crossway+ account by Thursday, October 15, and enjoy 40 percent of this book at crossway.org/PaulTripp. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kathleen Nielson delivered a breakout message at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “Judging Deborah: Letting the Narrative and Poetry Speak.” In her message, she laid out six basic questions to ask when studying Old Testament narrative utilizing Judges 4-5 as an example text. Narrative and poetic texts can be easily misunderstood, so Nielson encouraged the audience to relish Deborah’s story and allow her to speak from the text. Kathleen pointed out that, like all of Scripture, the text is meant to point others to the greatness of the Lord through both Deborah’s story and her song. The six questions offered a framework for understanding a narrative text and mining it for every ounce of God-glorifying truth that may possibly be uncovered. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is brought to you by Crossway, publisher of 'Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church ' by bestselling author, Paul David Tripp. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Tripp offers 12 gospel principles to help churches battle the issue lurking behind every pastoral failure—a lack of a strong leadership community. Sign up for a free Crossway+ account by Thursday, October 15, and enjoy 40 percent of this book at crossway.org/PaulTripp. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Gospel Coalition hosted a workshop titled “Embracing the Beauty of Diversity” with Jackie Hill Perry, Jamie Ivey, and Ithohan Omolere at the 2018 Woman’s Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. The panel addressed the necessity and importance of diversity for Christians, beginning with God as the author of diversity and leading into how that should directly affect the lives of believers. They discussed what it means to celebrate diversity on an individual level, within families and friendships, and within the church. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is sponsored by Austin Stone Worship. Austin Stone Worship's new album, WITHIN, is an honest, worship-filled overflow of broken sinners experiencing the relentless pursuit of a holy and loving God. As you listen, we pray your heart is stirred to love and worship Jesus. Listen to WITHIN on all streaming services, and find album resources at austinstoneworship.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Gospel Coalition hosted a breakout panel titled “The Priority of Scripture in Our Doctrine of God” with John Currie, David Garner, Jonny Gibson, and Scott Oliphint at the 2019 National Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. The panel described the role of the Bible in our understanding of the Doctrine of God as formative, doxological, and pastoral. Scripture informs us from the very beginning of who God is, drives us to respond to God in unfettered worship, and equips God’s people for the work of ministry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"God's sovereignty means that my son's death is not meaningless; it's not an accident. God is in control of all things, and that means that his death is meaningful."From Psalm 130 and his own personal experience of tragedy and loss, Cameron Cole addressed the process of continuing to trust in Jesus through deep, lasting pain and suffering. He emphasized the importance of a rich, biblical theology to prepare believers to suffer with great hope. This episode of The Gospel Coalition Podcast is brought to you by Rooted Reservoir, an online resource by Rooted Ministry. Rooted Reservoir offers youth ministry curriculum, training videos, teaching illustrations, and an online community, to help youth ministers disciple students toward lifelong faith in Jesus Christ. Sign up by Wednesday, September 30, and save $20 with code TGC at RootedMinistry.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Eden Chen spoke at The Gospel Coalition’s first west coast conference in Fullerton, California, October of 2018, on the topic of faith and work. He focused on three practical topics for church leaders seeking to engage their people on the subject—calling, excellence, and evangelism.Chen addressed the role of the church in developing each of those aspects of engaging faith in the workplace and how Christians can utilize the workspace as an incredible opportunity for both excellence and evangelism. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is sponsored by The Good Book Company, publisher of 'Wherever You Go, I Want You To Know,' a new beautifully illustrated kids book by Melissa Kruger, where she helps parents say to their children, “whatever you do, wherever you start, I pray you love Jesus, with all of your heart.” Learn more at thegoodbook.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"A transition in the heart most often leads to a transition and change in life."Noël Piper and her daughter, Talitha, teamed up to lead a workshop session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2018 Women’s Conference titled, “God’s Grace in Life’s Transitions.” Life, it often seems, is a constant stream of transitions—changes in our situations that can be major stressors in our lives. From moving to a new city to a job or school change to relationship changes or the death of a loved one, we face consistent change, and we must decide how we will allow ourselves to be shaped by it.Noël and Talitha encourage us to learn about God and ourselves through each of the transitions he brings about in our lives and to carefully recognize how God works through those pivotal moments. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is sponsored by The Good Book Company, publisher of 'Wherever You Go, I Want You To Know,' a new beautifully illustrated kids book by Melissa Kruger, where she helps parents say to their children, “whatever you do, wherever you start, I pray you love Jesus, with all of your heart.” Learn more at thegoodbook.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Gospel Coalition hosted a breakout panel titled, “Faithful Endurance: The Joy of Shepherding People for a Lifetime” with H. B. Charles, Dave Harvey, Richard Phillips, Jeff Robinson, and Juan Sanchez at the 2019 National Conference to address the present trend of short stays in pastoral roles within churches.Knowing that the average length of tenure for an evangelical pastor is slightly less than three years, it is no surprise that instability plagues our churches, which is neither healthy for the congregation nor the pastor. The panel discussed the value of faithful pastors who dedicate their lives to single congregations for decades at a time and the formative process through which faithfulness to a single congregation builds godly character into pastors and their churches. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"What if every anxiety was an opportunity for you to look at the cross and remember that Jesus' sacrifice covered this circumstance? Do not be afraid."Laura Powell led a workshop during The Gospel Coalition’s 2018 Women’s Conference titled, “Journey with John Flavel Toward Fearlessness.” Fear is a common emotion that drives each one of us in one way or another on a daily basis.In her message, Powell defined the types of fear people face and referenced the writings of Puritan preacher John Flavel along the way to bring context and clarity. Powell’s message reminded her listeners—and reminds us today—that the fear of the Lord is good, that sin caused our fears to be fallen, and that our fears are redeemed by the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

During a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference, Josh Byers and Tim Challies teamed up to deliver a message titled, “How Visual Theology Displays the Truth About God.” There may be no time quite like the present in which the world has been so acutely aware of the importance of visual communication.The power of images to shape culture, communication, and education is undeniable, including within the church. Yet imagery has been troublesome at times in church history. In order to help people within our churches become good theologians, we must teach sound doctrine in words, but we also need to engage them visually in order to undergird and communicate truth in ways we might not otherwise clearly accomplish. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"Awareness of death weakens our attachments to false hopes."Matthew McCullough delivered a message during a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled, “Remember Death: The Surprising Path to Living Hope” based on his book by the same name. McCullough focuses on the importance of paying careful attention to death, removing the taboo around the subject, allowing it to deepen our spiritual walk, and encourage us with hope.In a culture that prioritizes pleasures, certainly death seems a morbid and unexpected topic of conversation. Yet McCullough focuses on two benefits in the lives of Christians, not in simply preparing for death, but in knowingly living with death on the horizon—learning to number our days. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jackie Hill Perry delivered a message during a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “Gay Girl, Good God: The Story of Who I Was and Who God Has Always Been” based on her book by the same name. In it, she addresses same-sex attraction through her own story couched within the larger story of God. She encourages listeners to trust that that the simplicity of the gospel message—even when it seems to bear no fruit—can and does lead people out of sin and into a life that glorifies God. She calls the church to think holistically and frame the work of loving and serving same-sex attracted people in the fullness of the gospel. Simply love those in need of the gospel and help them understand it in its simplest form—Jesus loves you and died for your sins. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sam Chan delivered a message during a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “How to Tell Your Friends About Jesus Without Becoming That Guy.” He taught that many of the things that we believe will help to convince others of the truth of the gospel—sovereignty of God aside—such as facts, evidence, and data, are actually the least powerful factors in doing so. Far more powerful are community and experiences, which means that the most effective methodologies for helping others to hear and understand the gospel include experiences that offer a merging of Christian and non-Christian friends and the opportunity to listen and learn from one another. From these things, fueled by prayer, opportunities for gospel conversations will inevitably arise. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"Change is not the absence of temptations but the raw spiritual ability to be holy even in the midst of temptations."Christopher Yuan delivered a message during a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference titled “Holy Sexuality: Sex, Desire, and Relationships Shaped by God’s Grand Story.” Yuan taught that sexual identity has become an idol within our culture, and sexual freedom has become the religion of the land as a result of our hearts being set in defiance against God’s perfect design. Though sanctification is critical activity for every believer, he taught, the Christian life constitutes far more than the avoidance of sinful behavior. It begins with answering our ontological questions in terms of the Imago Dei and developing a “theological anthropology”—recognizing that our identity is not defined by our sin, but by Christ. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Karen Swallow Prior spoke at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference in a breakout session called, “Why, How, and What to Read.” The relationship between God and his people, she posited, has always focused on the centrality of the Word with a specific emphasis on written words. In fact, it may be said that reading is a supernatural gift from God—one that can be accepted, rejected, or lost. It is therefore incumbent upon all believers to cultivate the ability to read the right things, in the right ways, in order to steward the wonderful gift of reading that both enriches our lives and deepens our relationship with the Word who took on flesh and dwelt among us. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Harold Kim delivered a message in a breakout session titled “Bittersweet Sovereignty in Joseph’s Story and Ours” at The Gospel Coalition’s 2018 West Coast Conference. From Genesis chapters 37 and 50, Kim addressed three repeating themes in the life of Joseph: sins, sovereignty, and salvation. Driven by sinful, generational family dysfunction, Joseph’s life spiraled into chaos, yet God was sovereign over and working through it all. In the same way, we find hope in the promise that God causes all things—even the horrendous, atrocious dysfunction that often befalls us because of our own sin—to work together for our good. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trip Lee led a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana titled "Incredibly Normal: The Shocking Truth About Who You Really Are." He addressed the identity of believers and what it means to be a Christian on a planet filled with more than seven billion other humans. The reality is that God made us in his image for his own purposes, knows each of us intimately, and loves us in a way that only he can, making us unique in the world. We are also incredibly normal—unexceptional—when compared to the greatness and glory of God. Therefore, our identity must be rooted in Christ, not in ourselves, lest we fall to either side and either become entitled or feel inferior. Both are distortions and keep us from focusing on who God made us to be. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Todd Goranson and Steve Rooks spoke during a breakout session titled “Evangelism in the Arts” at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. In this message, they addressed the efficacy of arts as a tool for evangelism, arguing that art has its own way of conveying and portraying the beauty and the complexity of God's creation. It also provides a means for reaching communities and individuals who might not be inclined to walk into a church on Sunday morning or actively seek knowledge or relationship with Christ with the message of the gospel. The arts are a vehicle through which the gospel can effectively impact the culture for the sake of Jesus Christ. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle Strobel led a breakout session at The Gospel Coalition’s 2018 West Coast Conference in Fullerton, California, titled Jonathan Edwards, Love, and the Formation of the Christian. He discussed Edward’s understanding of love, Christian formation, theology, and spirituality, arguing that we need to develop a robust spiritual theology to help the church navigate lived existence—actual lived life with God in the Spirit. As did Jonathan Edwards, Strobel worked to inextricably tie theology and praxis and discourage the approach that makes the two disparate disciplines. The practice of contemplation about God, then, becomes the beatific motivator for sharing in the life of God. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“No one can thwart God's good plans for us. No one can ultimately turn God's good plans for us against us.”Trillia Newbell delivered a message in a breakout session as part of The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana, entitled If God Is for Us. From Romans 8:31-39, Newbell encouraged attendees to trust that the verdict has been determined for believers in Christ, and it is in our favor! By reiterating a series of rhetorical questions Paul laid out in Romans 8, Newbell emphasized the rightful conclusion that if God is for us, no one can ever prevail against us, no matter the circumstance.“More than conquerors” is not a silly slogan to get you through your morning workout; it is a world-changing truth that he who loved us has given us the victory and nothing will ever thwart it! That is news too amazing to ignore or to keep to ourselves. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is sponsored by The Good Book Company, publisher of Need to Know, a book by Gary Millar. This practical book will give new Christians the essentials—what you really need to know if you’re going to follow Jesus. To learn more, visit thegoodbook.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sandra McCracken and Russ Ramsey led a breakout session as part of The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana, entitled Reading Scripture with an Engaged Imagination. The songwriter and author, respectively, discussed the role the imagination plays in reading, understanding, and conveying the content of Scripture. Even for individuals with a high view of Scripture, who believe the Bible is authoritative and reliable, Ramsey and McCracken argue that reading it well requires a fully engaged imagination—not because it is lacking in any way, but because that’s what our humanity demands. They discussed how, in prose and songwriting, they mine the detail of Scripture and use their imaginations to faithfully flesh out its context and significance. In doing so, they encourage others to engage Scripture in the same manner no matter their specific vocations. This episode of The Gospel Coalition podcast is sponsored by The Good Book Company, publisher of 'Need to Know', a book by Gary Millar. This practical book will give new Christians the essentials—what you really need to know if you’re going to follow Jesus. To learn more, visit thegoodbook.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As part of The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana, Kevin DeYoung led a breakout session entitled Grace Defined and Defended: The Continuing Relevance of the Canons of Dort 400 Years Later. In this session, DeYoung argued for theological precision—the wise measurement of the words used to describe God’s interaction with his people—via a close look at why and how the Canons of Dort came to be. When it comes to the doctrines of our faith, we ought to hunger for the specifics because they matter deeply. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aimee Joseph leads a workshop session at the 2018 TGC Women’s Conference on the necessity of the grace of Christ in motherhood. Emphasizing the lack of a “magic bullet,” Joseph encourages mothers from Hebrews 12:12 not to grow weary in their work but to allow God to train and strengthen them. It is Christ who keeps you, and in doing so keeps you from falling into the trap of either simply enduring or enthroning your children. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Division has plagued the church around this topic, which stands in stark contrast to Jesus’s prayer for unity in John 17. Though there have lately been helpful conversations around this topic, certainly much remains to be done. Linne offers three biblical directives for engaging in these needed discussions. This message was originally given at The Gospel Coalition’s 2019 National Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alistair Begg addresses the need for pastors to continually “press the gospel message home.” From 2 Timothy 4:1-9, he charges them to focus on the ministry of the Word in a climate marked by moral and doctrinal confusion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jesus is the meeting place of time and eternity. He is the intersection between heaven and earth. When we, like the woman at the well, were in our sin and could not reach up, God reached down to us. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A holistic, Augustinian apologetic gives us the resources to offer critiques of other world views and secular idols—paving a path to an eternal love that the human heart has always yearned for. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In Christ, we are chosen, saved, and kept by the gospel. Therefore, we should not be ashamed of it, even as suffering comes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Danielle Anderson, Nancy Guthrie, and Vaneetha Rendall Risner share their experiences with grief, and the grace they’ve discovered along the way. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this breakout session, Tom Nelson explores a robust theological bridge from the scriptural text to wise economic thought. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Trip Lee encourages Christians to be faithful in their efforts at evangelism and gospel proclamation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this workshop, Ellen Dykas addresses both the dangers and also the joys of being poured out into the lives of others, with a focus on Christ-centered practical wisdom for our own hearts. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When we understand the mercy of God, it will always take us in directions we would rather not go, toward people we would rather not care about, and ultimately into the deepest counsels of God. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As believers called to make disciples of all nations, how do we carry out the Great Commission in our workplaces? What kinds of sensitivities and clarity are biblical and effective? What is the role of the church? How can we shine the light of the gospel in our various places of work—whether an office, a kitchen, an artist’s studio, or a classroom? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're done with the old self, and we have put on a new nature which bears an ever-clearer insignia of our creator, Jesus Christ. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We can have confidence in God's fore-bearing continuance with us, as we love Him with all our heart, soul, and strength. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Smethurst interviews Collin Hansen about what happened in 2019 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A talk by Jonathan Leeman Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.