The Fire and Bones Podcast

This series takes the events of Holy Week day by day.

Does the Trinity matter when it comes to the cross? Surely the Trinity is a deep doctrine but doesn't matter when it comes to the cross? In this episode we discuss the nature of the Trinity in Scripture, the Trinity's place in church history, and the necessity of the Trinity in the gospel itself.Here are some resources from the episode: Delighting in the Trinity, Michael ReevesMichael Reeves offers a great introduction into the Trinity for Christians of ever maturity. St Patrick's Bad AnalogiesCheck out this video as a great introduction to bad illustrations of the Trinity for children and adults alike. Baptist Catechism Catechism comes from the work for "instruct" or "teach" in the NT (katecheo).

Come back to this podcast feed on Monday the 11th, for the beginning of our day-by-day retelling of the events of holy week.

We are experiencing a dramatic shift in the spiritual landscape of western Christianity. Ground zero for the secularization of the west is the home. Who is discipling the next generation? The church has largely tried to disciple the next generation via modern ideals of youth group fun. Now task forces like at the NAMB are recommended we encourage Bible reading. Bible reading. We can't disagree. Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/religion/2021/03/29/church-membership-fallen-below-majority/ Barna Researchhttps://www.barna.com/research/resilient-disciples/LifeWay Research https://research.lifeway.com/2019/01/15/most-teenagers-drop-out-of-church-as-young-adults/

The recently released film "Turning Red" has brought the question of media in the home to the forefront once again. What do we watch in our homes? How important is this in family discipleship?

In episode we discuss the benefits of preaching through books of the Bible and the downsides of the "sermon-series" approach to preaching.

This episode was recorded on the first day of the Russian invasion into Ukraine. These events bring up questions about the place of nations today and the history the Bible foresees. In particular, it draws to several images and symbols in the Bible. How do we understand nations of the earth and the symbols in Revelations? How should Christians think about themselves in light of the images we have about the end of world when Christ returns?

In this episode we consider what presence actually is and whether or not virtual reality solves the problems of "online church." For reference, the announcement video from Meta is discussed throughout the podcast. You can find that video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uvufun6xer8

Christ is the uniting factor for God's plan in all time in heaven and on earth. "In Christ" is the dominating theme in the book of Ephesians and a dominating theme for the Christian life. Everything the Christian has he has in Christ. We have not thought of Christ enough and we cannot overestimate the centrality of Christ to the Christian's life. On the front end we discuss the Simeon Trust Workshop and its helpfulness. Find out more here: https://simeontrust.org

In this episode we discuss a corporate view of the great commission. Jesus' entire body was commissioned to make disciples, and that includes more than merely evangelizing the lost.

On Episode 1 of Season 3, we interview Jonathan Leeman about meaningful church membership. Jonathan is the editorial director for 9Marks. He edits the 9Marks series of books as well as the 9Marks Journal and is the co-host of Pastors Talk. He has written for a number of publications and is the author or editor of a number of books.Jonathan lives with his wife and four daughters in a suburb of Washington, DC and serves as an elder at Cheverly Baptist Church. He teaches adjunctively at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and the Reformed Theological Seminary. You can follow him on Twitter at @Jonathan Leeman.If you're interested in purchasing Jonathan's books, you can find them in the 9Marks bookstore: https://9marks.myshopify.com/search?type=product&q=Leeman

In this last episode of the fall season, Michael and Nathan discuss the text of Revelation 14 and all the events surrounding. We hope you're blessed from a close look at this passage.

This week we discuss the Five Solas of the reformation and what they mean for the church today. We're joined by Blake White who is the pastor of South Side Baptist Church in Abilene and author of Five Solas: The Deliberately Protestant Church. The implications are as central as the doctrine of salvation and as practical as how we interact in small groups.

This week Michael is preparing to preach on the guarding of Jesus' tomb. Who was actually guarding the tomb? Does it matter? Maybe the felt board pictures of Roman soldiers guarding the tomb aren't historically accurate. We also address what is in our worship services. Why that order of service? Why those readings, songs, and prayer?

Michael and Nathan discuss the end times, what scripture says about it, what it doesn't say about it, and much more.

When you open a passage in the Bible how can we begin to understand and apply it? We talk through structure, context, and then move through the cross to application. We were able to record together in person while discussing Job 19 after a Simeon Trust workshop in Austin. Get your Bible out for this one!

How do we approach the text and what is the usefulness of meditation in the process of interpretation? On this episode we discuss our approach to Scripture and the meaning and application of Revelation 12 -- the Dragon and the Woman.

"Calvinism" is a loaded term in our Christian era and culture. What does it mean and is it biblical? This is fundamentally a discussion about the work of God through the whole Bible and what problems the gospel really fixes. Often referred to as the "doctrines of grace", in this episode we discuss the teaching which leads us to the "praise to his glorious grace" (Eph 1). Along the way we discuss the nature of sin, human freedom, and the sovereignty of God.

With so much talk in Christian culture around the identification of the mark of the beast, it's important for Christians to read the scriptures rightly. What is the mark of the beast? Should you worry about being marked? Is the COVID vaccine the mark of the beast? Let's read Revelation 13 and understand it in its context.

Americanity: to cause to acquire or conform to American characteristics. America has developed a vast and varied culture. How does a biblically faithful worldview mesh with American ideals which are prominent today?

Aaron Menikoff, pastor and Author of Character Matters: Shepherding in the Fruit of the Spirit, joins us to address developing the fruit of the spirit in the local church. A humble, wise voice, Aaron helps us see the importance of the fruit of the spirit and some ways we can grow.

SynopsisIn part 2 of 2, Michael and Nathan continue the conversation as to whether or not it's foolish for Christians to engage in conversations about UFOs, UAPs, & other fanciful machinations. Usually left to science fiction movies, the topic of extra-terrestrial life and visitations by beings from other planets have not only made it into the cultural conversation but the U.S. government is now studying it. What are these, and how should Christians think about it?Important LinksUAP Task Force documentEmail UsNathan LoudinMichael CrosswhiteChurch InformationNathan Loudin pastors Milwood Baptist Church in Austin, TX. Are you in Austin and looking for a good church? Find information on Milwood here.Michael Crosswhite pastors Emmanuel Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa, AL. Are you in Tuscaloosa and looking for a good church? Find information on Milwood here.

SynopsisIn part 1 of 2, Michael and Nathan consider whether or not it's foolish for Christians to engage in conversations about UFOs, UAPs, & other fanciful machinations. Usually left to science fiction movies, the topic of extra-terrestrial life and visitations by beings from other planets have not only made it into the cultural conversation but the U.S. government is now studying it. What are these, and how should Christians think about it?Important LinksUAP Task Force documentEmail UsNathan LoudinMichael CrosswhiteChurch InformationNathan Loudin pastors Milwood Baptist Church in Austin, TX. Are you in Austin and looking for a good church? Find information on Milwood here.Michael Crosswhite pastors Emmanuel Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa, AL. Are you in Tuscaloosa and looking for a good church? Find information on Milwood here.

Can we really say God is speaking to us? What does the Bible say about hearing from him? This conversation actually begins with the more fundamental question: are we sure that God loves us? Resources:Taking God at His Word by Kevin DeYoung | https://www.amazon.com/Taking-God-His-Word-Paperback/dp/1433551039 Email us with any feedback or questions: • Email Nathan: [email protected] • Email Michael: [email protected]

Is it Biblical teaching? How can we develop a "smell test" when sitting under preaching? It is not only up to the preacher or teacher to discern faithfulness to God's word. Christians should test their pastor's messages, their small group leadership, and books they read. How can we do that with biblical direction and humility?

Heard of John Piper? This week we discuss the teaching which has perhaps affected the recent generation of pastors more than any other. We begin with a catalytic moment in Dr. Piper's ministry. At Passion One Day on May 20, 200, before 40,000 college students in Memphis, Tennessee, he preached what has come to be known as the "Shells Sermon". From there we discuss the defining doctrines of his preaching and their affects on our ministries. How Seashells Swept Over a Generation | https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/how-john-pipers-seashells-swept-over-a-generation/ The "Shells Sermon" | https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/boasting-only-in-the-crossFind all of Dr. John Piper's messages at www.DesiringGod.org. Email us with any feedback or questions: • Email Nathan: [email protected] • Email Michael: [email protected] • Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's here • Subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast here

Ever have trouble putting up with people? Do you struggle with tolerance? Biblical forbearance is more than tolerating differences or immaturity. It has the purpose of exercising and displaying the gospel. In a local church forbearance is based on a hopeful future in Christ. In this episode we consider the glory and usefulness of forbearing with another. Like and share if you find it helpful in any way. Email us with any feedback or questions: • Email Nathan: [email protected] • Email Michael: [email protected] • Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's here • Subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast here

Two of the most famous deconstructors are Rhett and Link who boast 16 million Youtube subscribers. Their very public exodus from faith in Christ has led the way in a recent movement. The Gospel Coalition published a book on the phenomenon called “Before You Lose Your Faith: Deconstructing Doubt in the Church”. On this episode we discuss what this means and ways to consider helping each other. Why TGC Is Publishing a Book on the Deconstruction Phenomenonhttps://www.thegospelcoalition.org/reviews/before-lose-faith-deconstruction/Deconstruct Your Culture, Not Your Faithhttps://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/deconstruct-culture-not-faith/Before You Lose Your Faith: Deconstructing Doubt in the Church https://www.amazon.com/Before-Lose-Your-Faith-Deconstructing/dp/0999284371/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=deconstructing+your+faith&qid=1625265011&sr=8-3____________Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's hereSubscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast hereEmail us with any feedback or questions:Email Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

We invited an Anglican priest and a Bible Church pastor to give their perspectives on the health and future of the Southern Baptist Convention. Dr. Alex Sosler and Pastor Chase Bowers are good friends of ours and trusted voices on biblical and cultural issues. We’re grateful for their input on everything from the SBC presidential election, CRT, handling of sexual abuse reports, and how to respond if you find yourself embarrassed by the SBC. Check out Alex and Chase here: Alex Sosler | Assistant Professor of Bible and Ministry at Montreat College in Montreat, NCOn Twitter @alexsosler Website: https://www.montreat.edu/academics/faculty/alex-sosler/ Chase Bowers | Pastor at Temple Bible Church in Temple, Tx On Twitter @chasembowersWebsite: https://templebiblechurch.org/leadership/  

BriefThe Southern Baptist Convention has recently dominated U.S. headlines with issues ranging from Critical Race Theory, suspicion of a liberal drift, and accusations regarding the handling of sex abuse. Two leaked letters from Russel Moore, former president of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, only further engulfed the convention in dismay and deepened lines of difference. So what happened at the 15,000+ person business meeting? On this episode we share some highlights and feedback on the 2021 SBC Annual Meeting. Did we leave unified? Listen in. Importan t LinksSBC Resolutions - https://www.sbc.net/resource-library/resolutions/Baptist Press, Official news source of the SBC - https://www.baptistpress.com

Joining us this week is Mark Meynell, the author of “When Darkness Seems My Closest Friend: Reflections on Life and Ministry With Depression”. Mark vulnerably shares his own experience with depression as a pastor. Mark kindly joined us from the UK to share about the purpose his book, pastoring with depression at All Souls in London, and to offer a biblical guidance through depression. If our conversation encourages you to talk someone, you can locate counselors near you through ACBC below. Find a Counselor - Association of Certified Biblical Counselors Mark Meynell BioHaving served for 9 years on the Senior staff of All Souls Langham Place in London, England, Mark is now works as Director to European and Caribbean Regions for the Langham Preaching Partnership (founded by John Stott). Mark hosts a podcast remembering John Stott called “The Stott Legacy”. Mark Meynell Resources:Purchase When Darkness Seems Our Closest Friend by Mark Meynell  •  Colossians and Philemon for You: Rooting You in Christian Confidence (God’s Word for You Series)  •  What Angels Long to Read: Reading and Preaching the New Testament  •  A Wilderness of Mirrors: Trusting Again in a Cynical World  •  Pages from a Preacher’s Notebook: Wisdom and Prayers from the Pen of John Stott (Editor)SERMONS ANDS CONTACT Michael Crosswhite's Sermon [email protected] Loudin's Sermon Library [email protected]

There are times when, as the Psalmist says, “my soul refuses to be comforted” and even “when I remember God, I moan” (Psalm 77:2-3). Pastors are not immune such soul-wrenching seasons. In Episode 10 we discuss our own experiences of what Winston Churchill called the “black dog”. If our conversation encourages you to talk someone, you can locate counselors near you through ACBC below. Find a Counselor - Association of Certified Biblical CounselorsEPISODE RESOURCESSpurgeon’s Sorrows by Zach EswineThe Pastor and Counseling by Deepak RejuSERMONS ANDS CONTACTMichael Crosswhite's Sermon [email protected] Loudin's Sermon Library [email protected]

In this week's episode we discuss the TV Series "The Chosen" and whether or not depictions of biblical storylines are helpful or harmful for the church as a whole. The sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on May 16, 2021.Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's hereSubscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast hereEmail us with any questions you may have:Email Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

In this week's episode we discuss plagiarism in the pulpit. Is it wrong? Why is it wrong? What causes pastors to steal the sermons of other pastors? What if the author of the original sermon has given permission for his sermon to be used, is it still wrong?Helpful articles on sermon theft:https://www.9marks.org/article/thou-shalt-not-steal-and-other-sermon-points-i-didnt-make-up-some-thoughts-on-pastoral-plagiarism/https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/pastor-plagiarism/Books mentioned in this episode:https://www.amazon.com/Listen-up-Christopher-Ash/dp/1906334676/ref=sr_1_1?crid=FNZUW7KRN524&dchild=1&keywords=listen+up+christopher+ash&qid=1621827031&sprefix=Listen+up+christo%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-1The sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on May 2, 2021.Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's podcast at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/emmanuel-tuscaloosa/id1300599723?mt=2Subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/milwood-baptist-church/id477449575Email us:Email Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

In this weeks episode, Michael and Nathan reminisce about classic Christian rap music, criticize cheesy Christian music, and discuss what it means to be a word-centered church.Books mentioned on this weeks show:Word-Centered Church by Jonathan LeemanThe sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on April 25, 2021.Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/emmanuel-tuscaloosa/id1300599723?mt=2Subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/milwood-baptist-church/id477449575Email us:Email Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

On this weeks show we discuss the necessity of prioritizing sermon preparation and what it's like to "cram for the final" of the Sunday morning final. We also deal with an incredibly difficult – and seemingly apocalyptic – passage of Matthew 24:15-35. Nathan is continuing the ever-challenging book of Revelation and is in 2:8-11.Books mentioned on this weeks show:Deep Work by Cal Newport1-2 Thessalonians by G.K. BealeRevelation: A Shorter Commentary by G.K. BealeKingdom Come by Sam StormsThe Hymn mentioned is "Afflicted Saint To Christ Draw Near," and can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zGbdg1YCYYThe sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on April 18, 2021.Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/emmanuel-tuscaloosa/id1300599723?mt=2Subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/milwood-baptist-church/id477449575Email us your questionsEmail Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

On this weeks show we discuss a new Justin Bieber album...you read that right. Michael finally gets to Matthew 24 and Nathan is beginning Jesus' address to the 7 churches.Books mentioned on this weeks show:Kingdom Come by Sam StormsThe Gospel Comes with a House Key by Rosaria ButterfieldThe sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on April 11, 2021.Subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/emmanuel-tuscaloosa/id1300599723?mt=2Subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/milwood-baptist-church/id477449575Email us your questionsEmail Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

Is Easter Sunday a special day on the church calendar? Should a pastor change his normal preaching routine for Easter? Recorded in the week leading up to easter, Nathan and Michael discuss the dynamics of preaching on resurrection Sunday vs. every other Sunday, and how do you preach complex passages as simply as possible?The sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on April 4, 2021. You can find them on our websites:Michael's Sermon can be found here or subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's podcast here.Nathan's Sermon wasn't recorded...so did it really happen? Subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast here.Email us your questionsEmail Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

The sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on March 28, 2021. You can find them on our websites:Michael's Sermon can be found here or subscribe to Emmanuel Baptist Church's podcast here.Nathan's Sermon can be found here or subscribe to Milwood Baptist Church's podcast here.Email us your questionsEmail Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]

The sermons we are discussing this week were preached at our respective churches on March 21, 2021. You can find them on our websites:Michael's Sermon can be found here.Nathan's Sermon can be found here.The quote for this week was taken from John Piper's latest book, Providence, available for download and purchase at https://www.desiringgod.org/books/providenceEmail us your questionsEmail Nathan: [email protected] Michael: [email protected]'s entire sermon library can be found here. Michael's entire sermon library can be found here.

Email us your questions and check out our sermon libraries.Nathan: [email protected] || https://www.milwoodbaptist.com/sermonsMichael: [email protected] || https://www.emmanueltuscaloosa.org/sermonsIn this podcast a few books were mentioned, here they are in no particular order:The Returning King by Vern PoythressRevelation: A Shorter Commentary by G.K. BealeKingdom Through Covenant by Wellum and GentryOr the shorter version called God's Kingdom through God's Covenants