
The Whole Counsel
458 episodes — Page 5 of 10
Ep 339Grace and Law XIV: Is the Law Fulfilled?
This week we return to our ongoing discussion of the Christian’s relationship to both God’s Law and His grace. The emphasis this week is simply to explain what Jesus meant when He said He came to “fulfill the law.” We can understand this fulfillment in a few different ways, but Ernie Reisinger’s book offers us a great deal of help. Dr. John Snyder and Steve Crampton discuss not just how we can find rest and hope in Jesus’ fulfillment of the law, but also how we can follow His example to draw near the Father. Get your copy of Reisinger’s book here: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 33810 Years of Beholding God: Andrew Davies
Regular listeners will know we have been releasing complete interviews from our production of Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically. This is to commemorate and celebrate the Lord’s kindness over the last 10 years. This week we highlight the interview with Andrew Davies, a Welsh minister who met Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones and J.I Packer as a child. He also served as a pastor in New Zealand for a time. Going back over Davies’ words was a genuine blessing for us and we pray they will warm your heart to Christ today. Get your copy of the DVDs for Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically:https://shop.mediagratiae.org/collections/all-products/products/behold-your-god-13-dvd-set?variant=6841429637 Get your workbook for the study Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically:https://shop.mediagratiae.org/collections/all-products/products/behold-your-god-workbook?variant=6841804549 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts To watch the interview with Andrew Davies: https://youtu.be/eH8eP_gEV7M You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 33710 Years of Rethinking God Biblically: Eifion Evans
At this time 10 years ago we were putting the final touches and beginning the process of manufacturing Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically. This study has gone much further in the last decade than we ever thought possible. But the Lord has seen fit to use it around America and outside her borders in places such as Russia, The Netherlands, South Africa, Canada, and more. Each video session of Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically ends with interviews from men such as Paul Washer, Conrad Mbewe, Anthony Mathenia, and Eifion Evans. We sat down with these men for a long time. Some interviews were as short as 40 minutes. However, their total time in the study averaged 20 minutes. Because of that, the majority of their words have never been heard publicly. So to commemorate a decade of the Lord using this study, we want to present to you the complete interviews of our contributors. This week we present to you the Welsh historian Eifion Evans. His interview is unique in that he is not asked questions. His heart was overflowing with the things he felt important to say we simply turned the cameras on and let him speak. We have been blessed by his words and pray you are as well. Get your copy of the DVDs for Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically:https://shop.mediagratiae.org/collections/all-products/products/behold-your-god-13-dvd-set?variant=6841429637 Get your workbook for the study Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically:https://shop.mediagratiae.org/collections/all-products/products/behold-your-god-workbook?variant=6841804549 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 336Grace and Law XIII: Is God’s Law Fair?
If you have gone through the Media Gratiae study Behold Your God: The Weight of Majesty, you will know that God’s attributes include being just, good, and kind. So how can a just, good, and kind God require the adherence to a law that people may not understand or be able to follow? That is the topic of discussion this week for Dr. John Snyder and Steve Crampton. They are sharing their notes from chapter nine of Ernie Reisinger’s book, The Law and the Gospel. In this chapter, Reisinger looks to David Brainerd, the son-in-law of Jonathan Edwards, for help. In his journals, Brainerd discusses the hatred and contempt he felt towards God’s law when he was unconverted. He then details how his renewed understanding of God’s law led to his conversion. His journey is one that we believe can be very helpful to discuss the fairness of God’s law to unconverted people today. It is so helpful, in fact, that we allowed the discussion to go a bit longer than normal. If you haven’t picked up a copy of this book, we highly encourage you to do so and make sure to carefully read through chapter nine: Does Human Inability make God Unjust? Get your copy of Reisinger’s book here: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 335Grace and Law XII: 20 Errors of Antinomianism
Throughout this podcast series, we have been following the flow of thought in Ernie Reisinger’s book The Law and the Gospel. In his discussion on antinomianism, Reisigner gives 20 errors connected to this heretical understanding of God’s law in the Christian life. This week, we share most of those 20 ideas and stop to discuss a few of them. To help you better keep up with the flow of ideas, we wanted to write out the list here for you: The law is made void by grace. Justification by faith alone renders good works unnecessary. Since good works are unnecessary, obedience to the law is not required of justified persons. God sees no sin in the justified, who are no longer bound by the law, and is not displeased with them if they sin. God therefore does not chastise justified persons for sin. Nor can sin in any way injure the justified. Since no duties or obligations are admitted in the gospel, faith and repentance are not commanded. The Christian need not repent in order to receive par-don of sin. Nor need he mortify sin; Christ has mortified sin for him. Nor ought he be distressed in conscience upon back-sliding, but he should hold fast to a full assurance of his salvation in the midst of the vilest sins. Justifying faith is the assurance that one is already justified. The elect are actually justified before they believe, even from all eternity. Therefore they were never children of wrath or under condemnation. Their sin, as to its very being, was imputed to Christ so as not to be theirs, and His holiness is imputed to them as their sanctification. Sanctification is no evidence of justification, for assurance is the fruit of an immediate revelation that one is an elect person. No conviction by the law precedes the sinner's closing with Christ, inasmuch as Christ is freely offered to sinners as sinners. Repentance is produced not by the law, but by the gospel only. The secret counsel of God is the rule of man's conduct. God is the author and approver of sin, for sin is the accomplishment of His will. Unless the Spirit works holiness in the soul, there is no obligation to be holy or to strive toward that end. All externals are useless or indifferent, since the Spirit alone gives life. Ernest Kevin’s book The Law and the Gospel- https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 Get your copy of Reisinger’s book here: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 334Grace and Law XI: Rejecting the Lies of Antinomianism
It’s been a few weeks since John Snyder and Steve Crampton came together to discuss Ernie Reisinger’s The Law and the Gospel. But this week they are back and they are tackling the topic of antinomianism. This term, which we believe to be coined by Martin Luther, describes a doctrine in which God’s Law has no place in the Christian life. Paul himself was accused of being an antinomian, as was Martyn Lloyd-Jones, because they preached a full picture of the gospel. But at the heart of the accusation is a misunderstanding of God’s Law and its role in the New Testament Christian life. It is not a heavy burden by which we achieve justification with God. It is a path we are permitted to walk to be near our King. Get your copy of Reisinger’s book here: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 333How to Respond to ”Gay Christianity”
While we don’t typically focus on contemporary issues on the Whole Counsel, we wanted to take one episode to introduce you to an author that we trust on a topic that has become the source of unexpected confusion in many churches. Michael David Perkins, in his recently released book Dangerous Affirmations, provides a clear perspective on the recent trend of affirming “gay Christianity.” In a careful, thorough, and Christ-honoring way, Michael leads the reader through the fundamental beliefs behind this trend, as well as the Biblical reason for rejecting these beliefs. Michael Perkins and John Snyder discuss the various misconceptions in many churches that have arisen from the misdiagnosis of homosexuality and the misdirected expression of compassion that has surfaced in many churches. While guiding us to a more Biblical and loving approach to those who have embraced this lifestyle, Michael and John also speak of the need for the believers to consider the “respectable sins” they themselves may be embracing. Perhaps you will find Michael’s book helpful in answering the question: How do we share the truths of our King, Jesus, with humility and reverence, in a world that craves affirmation for its newest expressions of self-rule? For more information regarding the new book Dangerous Affirmations, visit www.dangerousaffirmations.net. Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 33210 Years of Beholding God | Anthony Mathenia, Pt 2
Ten years ago we were working hard on creating the study that became Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically. Part of that work included conducting interviews that would come at the end of each video session. Those interviews often went on for more than an hour, but due to the time constraints of the study, only about 20 minutes of each interview has ever been seen. As a way of celebrating the upcoming 10-year anniversary of Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically, we are releasing complete interviews from each contributor. Because the interviews are so long, we are releasing them in podcast-length segments. This week is part two of our interview with Anthony Mathenia and this episode, Anthony answers the questions: The western church seems unsure that personal holiness is essential or even helpful in reaching the lost. How do you see a biblical rethinking of God's character influencing personal holiness? How do you promote the highest views of God in your teaching? And what do you see in modern religious practice which you feel dangerously distracts from focusing on God in the corporate setting? What can those who are not in leadership positions do to promote a biblical rethinking of God in their church and in their home? How do you see a biblical rethinking of God as necessary in ministering to the entire body of Christ? How do you see idolatry manifested in congregations who believe themselves to be careful, healthy, Bible-believing churches? And can you mention specific areas where people are embracing an idolatrously low view of God and church? When a people worship an idol in God's name, God rejects it. Is there evidence of this reality in modern churches? Can you speak to earnest worship that is rejected by God today? Respond to the pragmatist who has heard everything in this study but now says, “But what we are doing is working. People are coming in the door. How could this not be pleasing to God?” Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 33110 Years of Beholding God | Anthony Mathenia, Pt 1
Ten years ago we were working hard on creating the study that became Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically. Part of that work included conducting interviews that would come at the end of each video session. Those interviews often went on for more than an hour, but due to the time constraints of the study, only about 20 minutes of each interview has ever been seen. As a way of celebrating the upcoming 10-year anniversary of Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically, we are releasing complete interviews from each contributor. Because the interviews are so long, we are releasing them in podcast-length segments. This week is part of our interview with Anthony Mathenia. If you haven't gone through our flagship study, Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically, check it out for yourself here: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/behold-your-god-workbook Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 330Grace and Law X: A Law Divided?
Is it necessary for the New Testament Christian to observe and obey the totality of God’s Law? In one sense, the answer is clearly “YES!” But upon closer inspection, the answer requires more nuance. To answer the question, we must first define what we mean by law. Throughout Scripture, the word is used to describe the entire Old Testament, the Torah, the rules laid out by God, or the 10 Commandments. But we must be more specific than this; there is a division within the law between the civil, ceremonial, and moral law of God. In this week’s episode, John Snyder and Steve Crampton discuss the three division of God’s law and how the New Testament Christian relates to each. The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 329Grace and Law IX: Approaching the Second Table
Last week John Snyder and Steve Crampton began discussing how a New Testament Christian should approach God’s moral law (the 10 Commandments). For help, they are using Ernie Reisinger’s book The Law and the Gospel. In his book, Reisinger gives us seven principles. John and Steve added a few of their own to make it an even 10. These principles are not laws in themselves. We are not adding to God’s moral law. However, we are working to understand how we are to appreciate, approach, and apply these laws now that we are under grace. We pray these principles will help you walk closer with our King. Principle 1: Context is king! Principle 2: Progressive revelation. Principles 3: These commands demand outward and inward obedience. Principle 4: These commands are summaries of God’s moral demands on humanity. Principle 5: Where a sin is forbidden, and by implication a positive act of obedience is commanded, then those things which lead to that sin are also forbidden. Principle 6: Whatever is forbidden or commanded of us, we are bound, according to our position and opportunity, to discourage and encourage others. Principle 7: There is a priority that is revealed in the order. Principle 8: These laws are for your good. Principle 9: What is forbidden is never to be done; what is implied or required is to be done as your have opportunity. Principle 10: The sum of all the law is LOVE (Romans 13:13). The Ten Commandments by Thomas Watson: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/theology-books/the-ten-commandments/ The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 328Grace and Law VIII: Approaching the First Table
It has taken us some time, but our discussion of the Gospel and the Law has finally gotten around to discussing the Law. This week, Dr. John Snyder and Steve Crampton take a look at the first table of the 10 Commandments. They also take a look at a historic, Baptist catechism and John’s initial hesitation to recommending it to the church he and Steve shepherd. The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 327Grace and Law VII: Help from John Calvin
This week John Snyder and Steve Crampton continue gaining help from John Calvin through his writings on the law. Just a reminder, we are not spending two episodes highlighting Calvin’s quotes because we idolize his words. We do, however agree with Ernie Reisinger that these particular quotes, along with much of Calvin’s writings, are clear and very helpful. The quotes we are focusing on this week are: The peculiar office of the Law [is] to summon con- sciences to the judgment-seat of God. John II:140 [On Heb. 10:1] Under the Law was shadowed forth only in rude and imperfect lines what is under the Gospel set forth in living colours and graphically distinct. To both the same Christ is exhibited, the same righteous- ness, sanctification, and salvation; and the difference only is in the manner of painting or setting them forth. Heb. 222. When Christ or the Apostles are treating of a perfect life, they always refer believers to the Law. Four Last Books of Moses III:69. He who is the foundation of the covenant of grace, held also the highest rank in the giving of the Law. Gal. 102. The law was the grammar of theology, which, after carrying its scholars a short way, handed them over to faith. Gal. 108. If the Law be separated from Christ, it is a dead letter; Christ alone gives it life. Ezek. II:176, 177. In all the ceremonies of the Law [faith] beholds the salvation which has been manifested in Christ. John ll :241. Moses had no other intention than to invite all men to go straight to Christ. John I:217 What Calvin is illustrating in each of these quotes is that God’s law is truly a treasure to the believer. It shows us how to live a pleasing life to the God Who rescued us. It teaches us what a happy life is. It leads us to repentance. It reveals Christ to us. It makes us lean more heavily upon Christ. Keache’s Catechism: https://founders.org/library/the-baptist-catechism/ The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 326Grace and Law VI: The harmony between Moses and Jesus
Scripture often draws a sharp contrast between the ministry of Moses in the Old Covenant and Christ in the New Covenant. Hebrews says the New Covenant in Christ is so glorious the Old Covenant has no glory in comparison. John, in his gospel, says truth and grace are realized and embodied in Jesus Christ. Reading these without careful attention can lead one to believe the Old and New Covenants in opposition to one another, at war even. But in reality we have one Bible, one gospel, one God, one salvation. Rather than conflict, there is a wonderful harmony between Christ and Moses, law and grace. A good illustration of that harmony is to think of the law as the root and the New Covenant as fruit. There is a living connection between the two and one would be incomplete without the other. In the book John Snyder and Steve Crampton are using for this podcast series, The Law and Grace by Ernie Reisinger, there are several quotes from John Calvin we have found incredibly helpful. Due to time, we will only get to half the quotes in this episode. We will discuss the rest of them next week. The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 325Grace and Law V: Is the Law Enemy of Friend?
The way we approach an object reveals what we think of it. Consider a child approaching a plate at dinner filled with broccoli versus that same child approaching a plate with dessert on it. So how do we approach the law of God? Or, to ask a more important question: how does God want us to approach His law? The first step to answering that question is to realize that the moral law is a reflection of God’s moral perfection. It gives us an expression of God’s character applied to our human experience. Consider that it also expresses God’s authority as Law-Giver. As we consider our approach the the law, we have to be aware of some ditches we can fall into. For example, we can fall into the ditch of divorcing the law and the gospel. We are tempted to put a deep division between the two. But we must realize it was God the Father, as much as God the Son and the Holy Spirit, who delivered the 10 Commandments to Moses. The law and the gospel are not opposed, though they do have different roles in redemption. The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 324Grace and Law IV: The Law for All Times
In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were given one rule to follow. Between their exile from Eden and the days of Moses, what law did they have to obey? Careful readings of Scripture reveal they had the same moral law of God that was codified in the 10 Commandments. John Snyder and Steve Crampton spent some time on this reality last week. This week builds upon that reality by focusing on the fact that God rightfully commanded obedience to His moral law from all people at all times. This include us under the New Covenant. This does not denigrate the freedom and liberty Jesus Christ purchased through His obedient life and death. Quite the opposite. By understanding Jesus’ relationship to the law, we know how to walk close with and have true intimacy with God. This understanding helps us see the moral law as indispensably beautiful and a treasure of indescribable glory. The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 323Grace and Law III: Was there Law before Mt. Sinai
Without a biblical grasp of the law and the gospel, we cannot understand the true magnitude of what Jesus Christ has done for us on the cross. By minimizing the law, we minimize the grace and mercy that must be poured upon sinners to reconcile us to God. With that in mind, Dr. John Snyder and Steve Crampton spend this episode discussing the nature of the law before the giving of the 10 commandments. God condemned Cain for murdering his brother, but the command to not murder had not been given yet. However, Cain did not rebuke God for his condemnation, he asked for mercy. He knew it was wrong. There are many more examples. But what does all this mean for us? It helps us to understand that we serve a righteous Being who has distinguished us from all other created beings, and why we have a conscience that speaks against us and for the righteousness of God. The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 322Grace and Law II: 3 Responses to Our Portion
This week, John continues to use Psalm 119:57-61 to lay the foundation for a discussion of the Christian’s relationship to the law. We heard last week about the foundational importance of having God as our portion. Today, we discuss 3 responses fueled by God as our portion: Love and gratitude that lead to obedience Dependence on God Determination to apply all that we find in His Word Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/CharlesBridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 The Law and the Gospel by Ernie Reisinger: https://press.founders.org/shop/the-law-and-the-gospel/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 321Grace and Law I: Our One Portion
In the coming weeks, we will be exploring the topic of the Christian’s relationship to the law. For the next two weeks, John will be visiting Psalm 119:57-61 to help us get a right approach to this question. The primary question for the believer is to ask if Christ is my only portion? Do I look to other things for fulfillment, for security, for peace? Or do I look to Christ alone? Charles Bridges, in his commentary on Psalm 119, says, “He that chooses God in Christ for his delight and portion, may conclude confidently, that God has chosen him to enjoy Him, and be happy in Him forever.” After John lays the foundation for this topic from Psalm 119, he will be joined by Steve Crampton for the remainder of the series. You may remember Steve from a previous series on revival. Steve is a constitutional lawyer and has spent much of his life defending religious liberty in America. His life experience and knowledge will be a great asset as he and John Snyder discuss the relationship between God’s Law and God’s Grace in the life of a believer. This topic has caused much confusion and controversy over the years. For now, may we pursue Christ as our only portion as we lay a biblical foundation for our discussion of the Christian’s relationship to the law. Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/CharlesBridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 The Grace of Law: A Study of Puritan Theology: https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Law-Puritan-Theology-Puritanism/dp/1877611638 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 320Servants of Righteousness II
Since the beginning of this podcast, we have often pointed you to the Banner of Truth Trust for very careful, helpful books. That book publisher was started by Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, a pastor in London in early-mid 1900s. While we have pointed you to Lloyd-Jones, we have never truly shared one of his sermons. This week in our conclusion of his sermon from Romans 6:18 titled “Servants of Righteousness.” We pray it is a blessing to you. You can learn more about the life, legacy, and teachings of Martyn Lloyd-Jones in Logic on Fire: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/logic-on-fire?variant=39481137332358 Learn more about the MLJ Trust here: https://www.mljtrust.org/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 319Servants of Rightousness I
Since the beginning of this podcast, we have often pointed you to the Banner of Truth Trust for very careful, helpful books. That book publisher was started by Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, a pastor in London in early-mid 1900s. While we have pointed you to Lloyd-Jones, we have never shared one of his sermons. So for the next two episodes, we want to share one of John’s favorite sermons from Lloyd-Jones. It is from Romans 6:18 and is titled “Servants of Righteousness.” You can learn more about the life, legacy, and teachings of Martyn Lloyd-Jones in Logic on Fire: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/logic-on-fire?variant=39481137332358 If you don’t want to wait until next week for the rest of the sermon, click here to visit the MLJ Trust and see the other resources available through the ministry: https://www.mljtrust.org/sermons-online/romans-6-18/servants-of-righteousness/ Learn more about the MLJ Trust here: https://www.mljtrust.org/ iOS app: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mlj-sermons/id819555751 Android App: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mljsermons.mljsermonsappnew&hl=en Want to watch the Whole Counsel podcast videos? https://youtu.be/gdeF_JN45ho You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 318Psalm 119 VIII: Six Pictures of Real Liberty
This is our final episode focusing on Psalm 119. This week, John hones in on Psalm 119:44-45 with an emphasis on the liberty presented in these two verses. Liberty is a word Americans love to consider, but the cultural definition of that word is often not influenced by Scripture. John gives us six pictures of biblical liberty this week. For us to be truly free, truly at liberty, we must have safety, provision, inner peace, clarity, freedom to fulfill a purpose, and the ability to do what we most desire to do. Show notes: https://www.mediagratiae.org/blog/psalm-119-viii-six-pictures-of-real-liberty The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 317Psalm 119 VII: The Meaning of True Liberty
Freedom is a precious thing. Throughout history, cultures have valued it and gone to war over it, while many individuals have sacrificed their lives for it. But there is a freedom that is more precious. In today’s episode of The Whole Counsel, John Snyder discusses the meaning of the true spiritual freedom that is given to believers through Christ. Psalm 119:44-45 So I will keep Your law continually, Forever and ever. And I will walk at liberty, For I seek Your precepts. Show Notes: https://www.mediagratiae.org/blog/psalm-119-vii-the-meaning-of-true-freedom The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 316Psalm 119 VI: A Prayer for Dark Seasons
We don’t know when Psalm 119 was written, but we do know it was written after man’s fall. This means the writer knew what it was to experience different seasons of the soul. He knew the warm joy of springtime, and the dreary darkness of winter. The prolonged dark seasons are particularly dangerous for the Christian. But God has given us all that we need in His Word to walk near to Him, even in the darkest of days. In this week’s episode, John Snyder focuses on Psalm 119:41-42 and discusses how we can pray Scripture in these dark nights of the soul. May Your lovingkindnesses also come to me, O Lord, Your salvation according to Your word; So I will have an answer for him who reproaches me, For I trust in Your word. Psalm 119:41-42 Show Notes: mediagratiae.org/blog/psalm-119-vi-a-prayer-for-dark-seasons The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 315Psalm 119 V: The Peril of Half-heartedness
The Christian life must be one of balance. In this particular verse of Psalm 119, we see that balance exemplified between heart and will; between the weight of our desires and emotions versus our duties as children of a King. This protects us from sentimentalism and legalism. in other words, there is the head aspect of Christianity and the heart aspect. As John Flavel says, the distance between the head and the heart is great, but the distance between the heart and action is short. Psalm 119:10 gives us fuel for prayer to shorten that distance between the head, the heart, and the life. With all my heart I have sought You; Do not let me wander from Your commandments. Psalm 119:10 Show Notes: https://www.mediagratiae.org/blog/psalm-119-v-the-peril-of-half-heartedness The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 314Psalm 119 IV: The Practical Balance of Dependence and Duty
We often speak of balance in the Christian life on our podcast. That is especially true this week as we discuss the balance of dependence and action, heart and will. We are called to live holy lives, but we can only do that by leaning wholly on Christ. But there is danger in this reality because the enemy is always present with a lie. He whispers that we shouldn’t pursue holiness because it is impossible for us to do anything that pleases God. But to answer this question, and to pray that God will establish our way, we must look to Scripture alone. Oh that my ways may be established To keep Your statutes! Psalm 119:5 The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 313Psalm 119 III: Into the Psalmist’s Prayer Closet
Today on the Whole Counsel Podcast, John turns from the introductory observations in the early verses of Psalm 119 to the Godward cries of the Psalmist’s heart that begin in Psalm 119:4-5. Beginning in these verses, we get the chance to follow the Psalmist into his prayer closet; verses 4-5 show us how the Psalmist cries out to God in light of the truths He observed in the opening verses, and they provide a spiritual thermometer for how we ourselves are responding to God. You have ordained Your precepts, That we are to keep them diligently. Oh that my ways may be established To keep your statutes! Psalm 119:4-5 Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/psalm-119-iii-into-the-psalmists-prayer-closet The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 312Psalm 119 II: The Happiest Life
What does an appropriate balance between heart, mind, and life look like for the Christian? What role does the law play in the Christian’s life? How should we approach Psalm 119? In today’s episode of the Whole Counsel, John discusses these topics and addresses an important issue that is foundational to understanding this Psalm as we continue our new series with a look at Psalm 119:1-4. How blessed are those whose way is blameless, Who walk in the law of the Lord. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, Who seek Him with all their **heart. They also do no unrighteousness; They walk in His ways. You have ordained Your precepts, That we should keep them diligently (Psalm 119:1-4). The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 311Psalm 119 | Introduction
We bring our short series on Christian liberty to an early close this week to begin a series on Psalm 119. As individuals, a team, and a body at Christ Church New Albany, we have been studying Psalm 119 and found truths that have greatly encouraged us and benefitted our souls. Now, we want to share those truths with you. As John explains in this introductory episode, these episodes are going to be shorter than our typical length. That is intentional. We want these to be very focused episodes you can listen to and carry the truths contained in them with you throughout the day. But more importantly, our prayer is that these episodes will lead you to meditate on, be encouraged by, and apply the treasure trove of truths found in Psalm 119. The Golden Alphabet by Charles Spurgeon: (PDF) https://www.spurgeongems.org/chs_golden-alphabet.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Alphabet-Charles-H-Spurgeon/dp/1683072804 Exposition of Psalm 119 by Charles Bridges: https://www.grace-ebooks.com/library/Charles Bridges/CBr_Exposition of Psalm 119.pdf Physical Book: https://www.amazon.com/Exposition-Psalms-119-Charles-Bridges/dp/1479242381/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HOP2QYZBFYUD&keywords=exposition+of+psalm+119&qid=1646843189&s=books&sprefix=exposition+of+psalm+119%2Cstripbooks%2C139&sr=1-1 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 310Six Roadsigns for Christian Liberty
This week’s episode is a bit different from our usual setup. To begin, we are back in John’s office, but not like we have ever been before. This week you get to John’s office as it usually is, piled with books. But there is a method to our madness: we want to highlight some of the messy edges of the Christian life, particularly in the area of Christian liberty. This week, we will be considering the question: when believers disagree, how do we know if activities or hobbies are part of our Christian liberty or if they are sinful? God does not have grey areas, so why is it okay for some people to enjoy certain things while others feel as though they can’t? In answer to this question, John Snyder presents six roadsigns, or principles, for us to consider in the realm of Christian liberty. Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 309Session 1 from our new study: Living with the True God: Lessons from Judges
To purchase “Living with the True God: Lesson from Judges,” click here: https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/living-with-the-true-god-lessons-from-judges-media-gratiae-online-course This is the final episode of highlighting materials Media Gratiae has produced outside our podcast network. Up to this point, we have presented you with previously released studies. But this week, we are pleased to present to you the first session of a brand new study walking through the book of Judges and taught by Dr. John Snyder. The study is “Living with the True God: Lessons from Judges.” Through these seven weeks, Dr. Snyder examines many of the important realities found in this strange book that have countless implications and application to our modern lives, families, and churches. “Living with the True God: Lessons from Judges” is available for digital access right now! We will have physical DVDs and workbooks available in the coming months. Covid has slowed our production down. Make sure you are subscribed to our emails list and connected with us through social media so you will be alerted when physical studies have been manufactured. Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 308Special Episode IV: A Practical Guide to Family Worship
Special Episode: Family Worship For this week’s special episode, we present a study written and taught by Dr. Ryan Bush on the discipline of family worship. The ancient practice is largely lost in our modern Christian communities. But it is slowly being rediscovered by families across the globe. However, many need help to understand its importance and build it into the rhythm of their home. In this 8-week study, Dr. Bush teaches that Scripture is filled with an assumption that family worship would be conducted regularly in the context of everyday life. Each session ends with a discussion where Dr. Bush answers challenging questions about how to start and maintain family worship. As with previous studies, we are discounting A Practical Guide to Family Worship on our website. Just visit https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/family-worship-study-guide-bundle to get your copy. Next week, we will not present to you a previously published study, but something brand new! Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 307Special Episode III: The Church
Having spent two episodes introducing you to our first two studies, we now take a look at our latest documentary and film combination we made with Dr. Jeff Johnson. In The Church Bible Study Set, we seek to present the story of God's faithfulness as seen in 2,000 years of New Testament history. Over the course of this 12-week study, we take you to Carthage, Rome, Switzerland, Geneva, England, and more. This week's episode is one of the 12 sessions from The Church. Shot in front of Canterbury Cathedral in England, Dr. Johnson teaches about the marks of a true church. For this week, we have knocked the price of The Church Bible Study Set down. You can see the discount and purchase the study for yourself at https://shop.mediagratiae.org/products/the-church?variant=34713462112390.
Ep 306Special Episode II: The Weight of Majesty
Many of you know Media Gratiae through our podcast network, but we do much more. We have also produced documentary films and multimedia Bible studies. Every year we take a few weeks to present you with some of the teachings we have produced over the years. This week we want to highlight our second study, Behold Your God: The Weight of Majesty. This is session one: Knowing the God Who is Incomprehensible. In this session, Dr. John Snyder teaches that there are truths about God that we will never fully understand. But, far from allowing that to be a discouragement to us, it should be a fuel that drives us to an even deeper study of our King. Because we are highlighting this study on The Whole Counsel, we are discounting it 20% off its normal price. The sale will end when next week’s episode is published. Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 305Special Episode I: Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically
Many of you know Media Gratiae through our podcast network, but we do much more. We have also produced documentary films and multimedia Bible studies. Every year we take a few weeks to present you with some of the teachings we have produced over the years. This week we want to highlight our first 12-week study, Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically. This is session one: Beholding God: The Great Attraction. In this session, John is in Chicago, Illinois to introduce A. W. Tozer. If you have been through this study, we pray it is a reminder of the things God taught you through this 12 weeks. If you have never been through the study, may it whet your appetite for more. If you would like, you can find more information about Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically at https://shop.mediagratiae.org/collections/all-products/products/behold-your-god-13-dvd-set?variant=6841429637 Because we are highlighting this study on The Whole Counsel, we are discounting the study at the link above 10% normal price. The sale will end when next week’s episode is published. Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 304Consider Revival V: Seeking Revival Practically
This is the fifth and final episode of John Snyder and Steve Crampton discussing revival. Last week they introduced a little book called The Causes of the Lord’s Wrath against Scotland Manifested in His Sad, Late Dispensations. In that book, Presbyterian pastors across Scotland joined together to discuss why God’s wrath was being poured out on Scotland. They didn’t point to the rebellious culture, but to themselves and their own sins. To aid in their repentance, they pointed out particular sins they were guilty of and then joined together in congregational repentance. In this episode, John and Steve pick some of the confessions they find most applicable to our day and time. Show Notes: https://www.mediagratiae.org/consider-revival-v Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 303Consider Revival IV: Repenting Leaders
After three weeks of looking at Old Testament accounts of God’s nearness—what we would call “revival” today—John Snyder and Steve Crampton begin this week to examine a historical revival mentioned earlier in the series. This revival took place in Scotland in the 17th century. Before it began, a group of Scottish Presbyterians ministers came together for their annual session. They saw the need for revival in their land, so they assigned men to preach. However, the focus of their sermons was not to be the evil of the land or the rebellion of that nation against God: they were to lead this group of ministers in repentance for their own sins. In this episode, John and Steve discuss the importance of being a repenter who preaches repentance. And this need isn’t just for pastors—it is for every person whom God has entrusted with spiritual influence over others. You may be a Sunday school teacher, a parent, or a Christian with a little brother or sister. If you are a Christian and a leader, pay close attention to the example of these ministers and lead the way of repentance. The Fulfilling of Scripture by Robert Fleming: https://www.amazon.com/Fulfilling-Scripture-Robert-Fleming/dp/1362156655 The Works of Jonathan Edwards: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-jonathan-edwards/ Causes of the Lord’s Wrath Against Scotland: https://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/5/13/causes-of-the-lords-wrath-against-scotland Words to Winners of Souls: https://prpbooks.com/book/words-to-winners-of-souls
Ep 302Consider Revival III: Consider Revival 3: God’s Response to the Enemy’s Lies
*The audio this week is a little “off.” Due to a technical difficulty, we had to use our secondary audio. We apologize for the inconvenience. Hezekiah, as John and Steve discussed last week, was not a perfect king. But he was faithful. He trusted in the Lord and His hand. He destroyed the idols and returned the people of Israel to worshiping God as He prescribed. But in the midst of this revival, Sennacherib began attacking Hezekiah’s kingdom. He threatened to destroy the land, the people, and even the God of the people. We can only imagine the fear and trepidation Hezekiah and his people must have felt. But they turned the lies of their enemy into prayer to the Lord and He answered in a miraculous way. In the end, Sennacherib was shown to be a liar and God was proved faithful again. So it is the Christian life.
Ep 301Consider Revival II: Hezekiah’s Repentance
The story of Hezekiah is one of God's faithfulness. The king came from a line of wicked fathers who abandoned God. But Hezekiah's heart was turned toward God and He drew near to His people. We would call that a revival. In this episode, John and Steve Crampton discuss this Old Testament revival and how we can prepare for revival but never obligate God to it. Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/consider-revival-ii Revival: A People Saturated with God: https://www.christianbook.com/revival-a-people-saturated-with-god/brian-edwards/9781846256431/pd/256433 Want to watch instead of listen? Subscribe to the Media Gratiae YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/mediagratiae You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 300Considering Revival I: Nineveh
We are all aware of the story of Nineveh, but how many of us every looked to this story to learn how we should pray for revival? John is joined by Steve Crampton, a member of Christ Church New Albany, to see what we can learn from Jonah and the pagans of Nineveh. Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/consider-revival-nineveh Link to Lord I Agree: Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 299Bonus Episode: Sustained by the Gospel
When Jordan came into the studio to record a few episodes, he and John recorded a bonus episode. They begin discussing the founding of Jordan's church in Memphis, TN. The duo also discuss some encouraging practices that have come from a resurgence of reformed doctrine, but also some dangers associated with that. If you want to check out the Hebrews series John and Jordan talked through, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgUYzycx9N0&list=PLW0xuCgknPDPfNs5LWW4WoEXBg5wJtC0R Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 298God‘s kindness to one sinner
We spent three weeks skipping along the surface of Hebrews. There is so much more we would love to say. But we take a turn in this episode to see how God applied the priestly work of Jesus to the life of one sinner: Jordan Thomas. Like so many in our evangelical culture, Jordan prayed a prayer as a child and thought he was a Christian. But the Lord, in His kindness, showed Jordan the depth of his sin and used genuine Christ-followers to lead him to repentance. Jordan and John also benefited from the wonderful discipleship of a mutual friend. Because We Love Him: https://www.amazon.com/Because-We-Love-Him-Embracing/dp/1576738655 Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/gods-kindness-to-one-sinner Check our Jordan's sermon series on Hebrews: https://www.gracechurchmemphis.com/sermons?offset=1256490000645&tag=Book%3A+Hebrews Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 297Hebrews III: The Offering of the Body of Jesus
This week we return to our series on Hebrews with Jordan Thomas. We spent the first episode on the first chapter of the epistle and the second contemplating the command to look upon Jesus. In this episode, John and Jordan take a look at Hebrews 10 and Jesus' bloody, complete, and perfect sacrifice. Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/the-offering-of-the-body-of-jesus Check our Jordan's sermon series on Hebrews: https://www.gracechurchmemphis.com/sermons?offset=1256490000645&tag=Book%3A+Hebrews Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 296Recommended Reading for 2022
Last week we talked with Jeremy Walker about the first five of six principles in having a balanced reading diet in 2022. This week we pick up with the sixth principle and then get to our annual recommended books list. Show Notes: https://www.mediagratiae.org/blog/recommended-reading-for-2022 Check out Jeremy's podcasts: The Heart of Spurgeon: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-the-heart-of-spurgeon/id1546109129 A Word in Season: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW0xuCgknPDN2f0LSE4JiVmtrZtB6zsib Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-word-in-season-with-jeremy-walker/id1511364782 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App (along with both of Jeremy's podcasts): https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 295How to read as a Christian
We love books. That is no secret to anyone who has been watched or listened to Media Gratiae over the years. And for long-time viewers, you know we take one or two episodes every year to share some book recommendations for the upcoming year. This year we called on Jeremy Walker to join us in our book recommendation episodes. We will get to specific books next week, but we wanted to spend this week discussing the first five of six principles to keep in mind when reading books. There is a way to read books that will bring benefit to your soul, and there is a way to waste your opportunity of reading. We want to encourage good principles and warn of dangerous ones. Check out Jeremy's podcasts: The Heart of Spurgeon: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-the-heart-of-spurgeon/id1546109129 A Word in Season: YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLW0xuCgknPDN2f0LSE4JiVmtrZtB6zsib Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-word-in-season-with-jeremy-walker/id1511364782 Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App (along with both of Jeremy's podcasts): https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 294Hebrews II: Look Unto Jesus
John continues discussing the book of Hebrews with Jordan Thomas this week. Taking their cues from Hebrews 12, John and Jordan discuss how we are to live our lives looking unto Jesus. Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him (Hebrews 12:1-3a). Show Notes: https://www.mediagratiae.org/blog/looking-unto-jesus Theodore Monod pamphlet: https://bibletruthpublishers.com/looking-unto-jesus/t-monod/lbd23749 Check our Jordan's sermon series on Hebrews: https://www.gracechurchmemphis.com/sermons/category/Looking+Unto+Jesus Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 293Hebrews I: The Jaw-Dropping Beauty of Jesus
This week John is joined by long-time friend and fellow minister Jordan Thomas. You may recognize Jordan as a contributor to the studies Behold Your God: Rethinking God Biblically and Behold Your God: The Weight of Majesty. John and Jordan are going to spend the next few weeks discussing the descriptions of Jesus found in the book of Hebrews. This week's discussion focuses on Hebrews 1 and the 32 (at least) descriptions of Jesus in those 14 verses. Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/the-jar-dropping-beauty-of-Jesus Check our Jordan's sermon series on Hebrews: https://www.gracechurchmemphis.com/sermons?offset=1256490000645&tag=Book%3A+Hebrews Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 292Final Warning (Asahel Nettleton)
This week, John and Chuck are back with the series on Salvation in Full Color, looking at the last sermon of Salvation in Full Color called “Final Warning” by Asahel Nettleton. You can watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/Go1D_F57P1Y Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/final-warning Purchase your copy of Salvation in Full Color: http://www.rorbooks.com/index.php/product/salvation-in-full-color-twenty-sermons-by-great-awakening-preachers/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 291Divine Retribution (Jonathan Edwards)
This week, John and Chuck are back with the series on Salvation in Full Color, looking at a sermon on divine retribution by Jonathan Edwards. It’s an extraordinary kindness that, if all of humanity is heading into judgment, we are given a warning in time to turn away from this end! The One who gives us (His enemies) the warning is the only Being who fully understands what is coming and has provided a way of rescue. Show Notes: www.mediagratiae.org/blog/divine-retribution Purchase your copy of Salvation in Full Color: http://www.rorbooks.com/index.php/product/salvation-in-full-color-twenty-sermons-by-great-awakening-preachers/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app
Ep 290Sanctification (Isaac Chanler)
This week John and Chuck discuss the only sermon in Salvation in Full Color preached by a Baptist pastor. We don't know much about Isaac Chanler, but what we do know is very encouraging. At the heart of the very practical sermon, Chanler encourages believers simple to cling to Christ. This is the heart of sanctification and sanctification is the heart of this sermon. Purchase your copy of Salvation in Full Color: http://www.rorbooks.com/index.php/product/salvation-in-full-color-twenty-sermons-by-great-awakening-preachers/ Want to listen to The Whole Counsel on the go? Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite podcast app: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts You can get The Whole Counsel a day early on the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app