The Whole Counsel

Last week’s episode ended on gloom and judgment. Ahaz has rejected the opportunity of God to ask for any sign of His faithfulness. Rather than obeying God in requesting that sign, Ahaz chooses to put his faith in his own plan and strategy. God’s astounding response is to give him a sign anyway, the coming of Immanuel. He also pronounces judgment on Ahaz and his kingdom in the form of Assyria. This week we move from the gloom and destruction promised in Isaiah 8 to the hope and promise of Isaiah 9. No more will Zebulun and Naphtali be seen as an area that God has abandoned. They will, with the coming of Christ be seen as glorious because of Christ dwelling there. Here is the question for us, removed some 2,700 years from God’s deliverance of the promise and 2,000 years from His fulfillment of that promise: How do we apply this? How should these truths live in our life? John gives us some application of this passage in this week’s episode. 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

This week we continue looking at descriptions of the coming Messiah in Isaiah 8. Last week we discussed how God mercifully gave the wicked King Ahaz an opportunity to ask for any sign to prove His faithfulness. Ahaz refused but God gave a sign anyway. In today’s passage, God speaks through Isaiah and pronounces the coming judgment on the people of Israel. Some of the Israelites respond to this news with despair, others respond in pride, relying on their own cleverness rather than God, while others look for the hand of God in the events of their day. Which group would you belong to? 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

This week we begin a new series in which we examine God’s descriptions of the forthcoming Messiah in the book of Isaiah. In this inaugural episode, we are examining Isaiah 8. When we slow down and really consider what is happening, the story is shocking. A wicked king is given an opportunity by God to receive any sign or wonder, as high as heaven or low as hell. He is the only person in Scripture given this opportunity. And he refuses. But that isn’t the most shocking part; God mercifully gave him a sign anyway, and it was a wonderful sign. God described the Messiah He would send to rescue His people from the slavery of sin. Isaiah 8 is not a Christmas passage, though it is often read during this season. But let us take time to slow down, consider what God is speaking to us, and refuse to be like Ahaz who heard the words and left unchanged. Let us meditate on God’s words and consider how we can live on the realities of Immanuel. 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

We have previously introduced you to our friend, Mr. Richard Owen Roberts. We walked through the book he assembled, Salvation in Full Color, we’ve had him on the podcast to discuss his upcoming conference (link below). But Mr. Roberts has been a part of our ministry much longer than we have been producing our podcast. When we were discussing who we would interview for our inaugural study in the early days of Media Gratiae, Mr. Roberts was a must. We knew we wanted his wisdom and insight on the topic of rethinking God biblically. And he certainly did not disappoint. In fact, his interview is over two and a half hours long. Sadly, we had to cut the vast majority of his words in the study. But today we want to present you with some of his responses to our questions in their entirety. Check out Mr. Roberts conference here: https://www.nbcknox.org/turn Sign up for the giveaway here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/sign-up Giveaway books: Blessed and Boundless God - https://heritagebooks.org/products/the-blessed-and-boundless-god-puritan-treasures-for-today-swinnock.html The Incomparableness of God - https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/theology-books/the-incomparableness-of-god/ Studies in Christian History and Thought: Puritan Spirituality by Stephen Yuille - https://www.christianbook.com/puritan-spirituality-affective-theology-george-swinnock/j-yuille/9781556358678/pd/358678 The Existence and Attributes of God - https://www.christianbook.com/existence-attributes-god-updated-unabridged-volumes/stephen-charnock/9781433565908/pd/565900?event=ESRCG

In years past we have given you long lists of books we recommend to fill your next year’s reading plan. This year, our list is short. The reading, however, is not. The list is only two books and they have been available previously. However, they have recently be republished and we believe they are done so well they are worth discussing. If you already have a copy of these on your shelves, you might want to look at getting an updated copy. If you don’t already own these titles, we believe they will be a great help in the coming year. Sign up for the giveaway: Books listed:https://www.mediagratiae.org/sign-up Blessed and Boundless God - https://heritagebooks.org/products/the-blessed-and-boundless-god-puritan-treasures-for-today-swinnock.html The Incomparableness of God - https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/theology-books/the-incomparableness-of-god/ Studies in Christian History and Thought: Puritan Spirituality by Stephen Yuille - https://www.christianbook.com/puritan-spirituality-affective-theology-george-swinnock/j-yuille/9781556358678/pd/358678 The Existence and Attributes of God - https://www.christianbook.com/existence-attributes-god-updated-unabridged-volumes/stephen-charnock/9781433565908/pd/565900?event=ESRCG

Every quarter we give our supporters an update on what we are working on behind the scenes. Correction: This is not an end-of-the-year update. That will come later in December. In this update, we let you know about where we are in our next study, the growth of our social media platforms, Behold Your God being translated in multiple languages, the Behold Your God: Seeking Him Early resource, and much more. Media Gratiae is a 501c3 nonprofit ministry that is funded by the support of those have been blessed by our material and would like us to continue. If you have found our content helpful and would like information of how you can support our work, visit https://www.mediagratiae.org/give 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

In a way that only he can, John Owen ends his helpful work on the mortification of sin with two conclusions. The first contains eight preparatory points for consideration. Once considered, he gives two applications to help us make progress in mortifying our sin to the glory of Christ. This week’s episode of The Whole Counsel is bittersweet because it is the last one with Jeremy Walker. But focusing on John Owen’s final points is a very sweet way to end the series. If you haven’t picked up a copy of these books for yourself, make sure you click the link below and read through the book. We trust it will be beneficial to your soul. Check out Jeremy’s podcasts From the Heart of Spurgeon and A Word in Season here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts Temptation Resisted and repulsed by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/temptation/ The Mortification of Sin by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/the-mortification-of-sin/ Volume 6 of the Works of John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-john-owen-6/ Check out Jeremy’s book John mentioned: Jeremy’s book: https://www.heritagebooks.org/products/passing-through-pilgrim-life-in-the-wilderness-walker.html 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

The battle to mortify sin can seem exhausting, discouraging, and overwhelming. But it is a battle that we as Christians will fight and, ultimately, we will win. We have promises throughout Scripture making it clear that we will shed this fallen nature. We will see God without the barrier of sin between us. Christ will conquer all the sin in our lives. But while we live and breathe and walk in this life, that battle is not over. And we can never seek a respite from the battle. We must move forward in the battle. In this week’s episode, John Snyder and Jeremy Walker tackle more of John Owen’s helpful thoughts on mortifying our sins. They discuss what it means to put sin to death, what mortifying sin does not mean, and more. Check out Jeremy’s podcasts From the Heart of Spurgeon and A Word in Season here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts Temptation Resisted and repulsed by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/temptation/ The Mortification of Sin by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/the-mortification-of-sin/ Volume 6 of the Works of John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-john-owen-6/ Check out Jeremy’s book John mentioned: Jeremy’s book: https://www.heritagebooks.org/products/passing-through-pilgrim-life-in-the-wilderness-walker.html 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

Having discussed the necessity of mortifying sin and the flesh, watching and praying through Christ, John Snyder and Jeremy Walker move to discuss the practical helps God provides for us in fighting sin, repenting when we fall, and seeing restoration in our communion with God. We often look for a silver bullet when it comes to difficulties of the Christian life. We want an easier way to kill sin. But Owen is too wise to offer an easy and cheap solution. He gives us the tools God has given us. They aren’t easy; they do require effort. But He provides the energy, the will, and the desire to master them. Check out Jeremy’s podcasts From the Heart of Spurgeon and A Word in Season here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts Temptation Resisted and repulsed by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/temptation/ The Mortification of Sin by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/the-mortification-of-sin/ Volume 6 of the Works of John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-john-owen-6/ Check out Jeremy’s book John mentioned: Jeremy’s book: https://www.heritagebooks.org/products/passing-through-pilgrim-life-in-the-wilderness-walker.html 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

Richard Owen Roberts is a long-term friend of Media Gratiae. Even before Media Gratiae existed, Mr. Roberts played an important role in John Snyder's life. In this special episode, we want to introduce Mr. Roberts and International Awakening Ministries to those of you who may be unfamiliar with them. We also want to let everyone know of an upcoming conference IAM is presenting on November 27-30 at Norwood Baptist Church. The conference is called "Turn" and its foundation will be Acts 3:19. For more information about the conference, please see https://www.nbcknox.org/turn

Robert Murray M’Cheyne described the human heart as gunpowder and temptation as a spark that will ignite the heart in sin. The most careful practice we can have is to keep our hearts damp by gazing upon Christ. In this week’s episode, John Snyder and Jeremy Walker share how Owen encourages us to keep our hearts damp by the dual command to watch and pray. What must we watch for? How must we pray? John and Jeremy share some of the most practical help from Owen in this week’s episode. Check out Jeremy’s podcasts From the Heart of Spurgeon and A Word in Season here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts Temptation Resisted and repulsed by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/temptation/ The Mortification of Sin by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/the-mortification-of-sin/ Volume 6 of the Works of John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-john-owen-6/ 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

We at The Whole Counsel love Puritans. We have benefited so much from their sermons, prayers, and books, it is our delight to discuss them and hopefully whet your appetite to read their words. In this new series of podcasts, Dr. John Snyder is going to walk through two books from the Puritan, John Owen, with our longtime friend Jeremy Walker. In this first episode, Jeremy and John are discussing Owen’s, “On Temptation” and they discuss how to define, identify, and deal with temptation and testing. What are the differences and how should we approach them differently? Check out Jeremy’s podcasts From the Heart of Spurgeon and A Word in Season here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts Temptation Resisted and repulsed by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/temptation/ The Mortification of Sin by John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/christian-living/the-mortification-of-sin/ Volume 6 of the Works of John Owen: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/collected-workssets/the-works-of-john-owen-6/ 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

We have had 15 discussions of the Christian’s relationship to the God’s moral law in this series. If anything, we hope we have shown you this topic is important and worth a great deal of meditation. In the final conversation of this series, John Snyder and Steve Crampton ask what are the right and wrong ways of using the law. We’ve already answered the lies of antinomianism, the belief we shouldn’t use the law at all. But now we discuss how how to properly use the law in our life, and inappropriate uses we as humans are tempted to pursue. If you haven’t gotten your copy of Ernie Reisinger’s book “The Law and the Gospel,” we highly recommend it to you. Get your copy of it 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

Next week we will finish our series on The Law and the Gospel. In this series we have sought to study the New Testament Christian’s relationship to God’s moral law. Before salvation, the Law could only offer condemnation. It pointed out our flaws but could provide no cure for our sin-sickness. But now, because the Christian belongs to the Kingdom of Grace, God’s moral law has become the path we walk to please our King. This is part of what Paul’s point in Romans 6. We are no longer slaves to sin. We are slaves to righteousness. Even though we still wrestle with sin and hear the whispers of our old master. telling us the law will condemn us, we are assured by the faithfulness of Christ that His grace is sufficient. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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