Theocast

For those of us who are feeling anxious, depressed, dark, and discouraged, this is a conversation for you. How do we take what we feel and put it in the light of the gospel and the objective reality outside of ourselves? How do our feelings tend to adjust and change towards the truth of the gospel? We pray you find this conversation encouraging! Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

It has been said that Jesus is the greatest teacher of the law. Many would come to him and say, 'How can we enter into your kingdom?' We assume Jesus would give them the gospel. But if you read these passages, it sounds like law because he tells them to obey the law and live. Today's episode is a discussion about the law-gospel distinction with our good friend Pat Abendroth from The Pactum. We tackle a lot of the hard passages in both the Old and New Testament. Pat’s new book! The Active Obedience of Christ The Pactum Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

Do you ever wonder what it means to walk by the spirit? It's a phrase found in several places in the New Testament. If you asked ten different Christians what it means to walk by the spirit, you'd likely get ten different answers. But today on the pod, Jon and Justin are going to take a swing at answering that question. We're going to explore this concept and offer our perspectives. Our answers might surprise you. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

Are we saved by works? The answer to this question might astonish you. In fact, we are saved by works! The real question is, whose works save us? Ours? Or someone else’s? In today’s episode, Jon, Justin, and our friend Pat Abendroth from The Pactum will be discussing the active obedience of Christ, a vital biblical doctrine that helps sinners see Jesus better. We pray you will find this conversation informative and encouraging. Pat’s new book! The Active Obedience of Christ The Pactum Join the Theocast Community! COVENANT Conference FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

Emphasizing grace, grace boys, antinomianism, the law, preaching, harsh - these are all words that seem to be circulating widely on the internet. We wanted to address this topic. First and foremost, what is antinomianism? Is preaching Christ from all of Scripture, Christ-centered preaching, generally considered antinomian? Moreover, why is it that Reformed theology, and Theocast, is wrongly considered antinomian? We'll explain this by examining the uses of the law and church discipline. Join the Theocast Community! Jon’s Course: Saint, Sinner, and the Supernatural Justin’s Course: Law and Gospel Distinction Our episode on Romans 7 COVENANT Conference FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

The baptism debate. Typically, when we hear this, we cringe because it's not really done well; there are a lot of strawmen. We don't represent each other's side well, and it becomes heated and emotional. We don't want to do that today. We want to talk about the differences and where they stand biblically, and then why we would hold to a position known as the credo-baptist position: the 1689 Baptist view of baptism. Most of all, we pray that you're informed and encouraged. We love our brothers who are paedo-baptists, and we hope that comes out in this podcast. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK Sam Renihan’s book, The Mystery of Christ, His Covenant & His Kingdom Jewett’s book, Infant Baptist and the Covenant of Grace VanDorn’s book, Waters of Creation Nettles’s Article, Baptists and the Ordinances Our “Remember Your Baptism” episode COVENANT Conference

Have you ever wondered what the differences are between a confessional Baptist position on covenant theology and a confessional Presbyterian position? (We know you have--because you’ve asked us.) Jon and Justin talk about the differences today. It really all comes down to how one understands the covenant of grace to be revealed and then established. We hope this conversation brings some clarity for you! Sam Renihan’s book, The Mystery of Christ, His Covenant & His Kingdom 1689 Federalism Website Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK COVENANT Conference

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin have a conversation about the Reformation and the streams that flowed out of it pertaining to covenant theology. While there are disagreements amongst and between various traditions, Presbyterians, the Reformed, and confessional Baptists agree on a lot! This discussion covers some history, as well as the significant points of agreement. Let’s make Reformed catholicity a thing! Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK COVENANT Conference More episodes on Covenant Theology

What are the major differences between covenant theology and dispensationalism? That’s a question we get a lot. Jon and Justin sit down to discuss the differences under three main headings: Christ in all of Scripture, law/gospel distinction, and the covenant of works (active obedience of Christ). Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK COVENANT Conference

Paul declares to the church, "I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God." He urges us not to feel ashamed because the gospel embodies a power that transcends our universe – God's power. This concept often perplexes modern Christians. How can mere words encapsulate God's power? This episode delves into this question, exploring how we can embrace the gospel's benefits. Essentially, Paul emphasizes that while the world may ridicule it, Christians recognize the gospel as God's power for their lives. ABOUNDING GRACE RADIO Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK COVENANT Conference

Here is the reality for Christians: the one we love the most is the one we’ve never seen. There are times we have a hard time comprehending what God is like. We have a hard time feeling his love for us. And so, God can feel distant from us. It is hard for us to feel safe approaching him. Jon and Justin talk about our relationships with Jesus, his love for us, how he is with his people, seeing him in the Word of God and more in today’s episode. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK COVENANT Conference

Many of you watched the Super Bowl and saw the “He Gets Us” ad. Many of you are aware of the controversy surrounding Alistair Begg in recent weeks. There is a lot of concern amongst Christians about wokeness and liberalism and condoning sin. In today’s episode, Jon and Justin have a conversation about our call to love others--even those outside the church. Does showing compassion to an unbeliever who is engaging in sin mean we are condoning that sin? What does it mean to be salt and light and the aroma of Christ? What about speaking the truth of the law? What about sharing the gospel? Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK COVENANT Conference

Are you afraid of the second coming of Jesus? You might have been taught a fearful eschatology. The book of Revelation should not be a scary thing for the Christian. Instead, we should find ourselves encouraged and our hope strengthened by our study of it. Join Jon and Justin in a conversation with Rev. Chris Gordon from Abounding Grace Radio in this podcast from the January 2024 Theocast/AG Radio Conference, "Suffering & The Hope of Christ's Return." ABOUNDING GRACE RADIO Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

Do you ever feel like you know a lot about Jesus--but you can’t remember the last time you felt that he loves you? Has doctrine ever felt cold to you? Have you ever been tempted to pit doctrine and experience against each other? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, today’s podcast is for you. Jon and Justin have a conversation about Jesus and his love for us. The guys make an effort to pull us into God’s story of redemption and into the way Christ loves us. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

For many people, reading the Bible can feel like a burden. It seems that the whole conversation around Bible reading is riddled with guilt and shame. It shouldn’t be that way. It is good that we would know and love the Word of God! It is important that we, as Christians, be regularly engaging with the Word. That said, there are a number of ways that we can do that. Jon and Justin consider how we are called to know, love, and obey the Word in today’s episode. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

Every year around Christmastime, Christians love to argue about the song “Mary, Did You Know?” That’s another conversation for another day. (Mary did know some things, but she didn’t know everything.) A more significant question is, “Satan, did you know?” Did you know that Christ was bruising your head at the cross? How much did Satan know of the gospel? Jon and Justin talk about the victory of Christ over Satan in today’s episode. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

When you assess your life and your sanctification, do you conclude that there’s no way you could be God’s child? If so, it is possible that the categories of the law and the gospel have not been clearly explained for you. In today’s episode, Jon and Justin have a conversation with Josh Sommer (host of The Baptist Broadcast) about the law/gospel distinction and sanctification. The Baptist Broadcast Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

Perfect love casts our fear. And certainly, the love of God for us is perfect. Yet, fear reigns often--in our hearts before God and even in our relationships with others in the church. Here’s the thing, fear is actually a hindrance to repentance. Are you having a hard time repenting? The answer is not fear and dread. The answer is to lean into the love of God for us. United to Christ, trusting his righteousness, we walk by the Spirit. And there is freedom unto repentance. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

Happy New Year from us here at Theocast! We assume that you might’ve had some difficult conversations over the holidays about Jesus or about matters of theology and the Christian life. In light of that, how should we approach disagreement--amongst our family and friends, or even in our churches? (Hint: patience, gentleness, and love are generally useful.) We hope this conversation is a help to you as you think about engaging others around you. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM X (TWITTER) FACEBOOK

It matters how we live as Christians. In light of Jesus--because he has saved us and because he loves us--how do we live our lives? What is our purpose? What is our mission? Why do we pursue obedience and holiness? Does God have a plan for our lives? Jon and Justin talk about all of this in today’s episode. We hope it encourages and motivates you to live for the sake of the kingdom of Christ. Book: Gospel and Kingdom - Graeme Goldsworthy Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

Many people raise sincere, well-intentioned concerns toward us here at Theocast--and toward other confessional Reformed believers--that perhaps we don’t talk enough about obedience. Or that there isn’t enough application of Scripture being done, as it pertains to our personal conduct and holiness. How would Jon and Justin respond to these concerns? The guys have that conversation in today’s episode. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

Fairly regularly, we see posts or correspondence discouraging people from listening to Theocast because this podcast attracts those whose lives are shipwrecked. From our perspective, we are happy to receive such a compliment. Jesus came to seek and save the lost. He came to save sinners. He came for the weak and frail. He came for those who were weighed down by guilt and shame. This is the gospel. And, here’s the thing: it is anything but the celebration and condoning of sin. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

If you think the “meat of the word” is about our obedience and what we do, this episode is for you. Jon and Justin explain how holiness and obedience is a fruit of our growth in Christ--but how to eat the meat of the word is to grow in our understanding of the gospel of Christ, our union with Christ, the mystery of Christ, and even of the local church. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

In this episode, Jon and Justin sit down with Kelsi Klembara of 1517 (host of “Outside Ourselves”). The guys talk personally about their own experiences in the church and how they came to grow in their understanding of Christ and the gospel. After that, the conversation centers on the clarity of the gospel but covers a number of topics, including trends in the contemporary church, half-gospels, the sacraments, and what’s going on with people in our generation. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

Life under the sun is often brutally hard. We live in a world where we bury our children. Only an insane person would look around and say that everything is as it should be. So, what hope do we have? The hope is not for anything in this life or in this world. The hope is in the life--and the world--to come. Jon and Justin have a very personal and pastoral conversation about hope in the midst of heartbreak and pain. Jesus has promised us that he has gone to prepare a place for us and that he will bring us to be with him where he is. We take him at his word. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

There are many believers who think that the longer they are Christians, the less they will sin. More than that, the battle against sin will get easier. But, if we’re honest, we all know sin remains--and that the battle rages on. Christians are, at the same time, saints and sinners. Today’s episode is a conversation amongst four pastors about how understanding the saint/sinner reality informs pastoral ministry, fosters real sanctification, and produces honesty and compassion in the church. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

The events in Israel in recent days have sparked a lot of theological debate. Here at Theocast, we have gotten a number of questions from listeners. How should we think about the horrific terrorist attack on Israeli citizens and the turmoil that rages on? Are these events the fulfillment of end-time prophecy? What do these events mean for the mission of the church? Jon and Justin respond to these questions and more in today’s episode. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

Today’s episode is a conversation amongst four pastors about how understanding the distinction between the law and the gospel changed their understanding of Scripture and their ministries. It is a very pastoral and personal conversation. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

For far too many of us, baptism is about us. It is something we do. It is about our testimony. It is about our faithfulness to God. Or maybe, it’s a sentimental thing. But, biblically, baptism is God’s gift to us. It is a sign of our union with Jesus, of the remission of our sins, of our being raised to walk in newness of life, and of God’s pledge to keep us unto salvation. Baptism is a source of great comfort, encouragement, and strength for believers. If you’ve never thought about it this way, stay tuned to today’s episode. Jon’s Sermon on Baptism Justin’s Sermon on Romans 6:1-4 Our Series on the Sacraments Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK

For many people, “Reformed” means “Calvinism.” While Calvinism is certainly a piece of Reformed theology, Reformed theology is much more than Calvinism. In this conversation, Jon and Justin talk about the differences between the modern Calvinistic evangelical movement and the historic Reformed faith. The guys talk autobiographically and also aim to put words to the experiences of many Christians. Note: If you have not listened to the previous two episodes, “What Is Pietism?” and “What Is Reformed Theology?”, we would encourage you to do so before listening to this one. Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information

We often get the questions, “What does it mean to be Reformed?” and “What is Reformed theology? In today’s episode, Jon and Justin answer these questions by discussing five historical tenets of Reformed theology: covenant theology, Calvinism, confessionalism, ordinary means of grace, and the law/gospel distinction. (The guys sneak in one additional matter of doctrine at the end, as well.) Join the Theocast Community! FREE EBOOK PARTNER WITH THEOCAST OUR WEBSITE YOUTUBE INSTAGRAM TWITTER FACEBOOK Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information

Pietism is something we have discussed many times over the years on Theocast. Four years into recording together, Jon and Justin pointedly revisit the topic in today’s episode. What is pietism? How would the guys explain it to someone visiting their respective churches? How does pietism affect the individual Christian? How does it affect churches and even corporate worship? And what about the church’s tendency to hitch its wagon to politics and social causes--does that have anything to do with pietism? Join the Theocast Community! Partner with Theocast! Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information FREE EBOOK YOUTUBE FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

What is the armor of God? It is hard to put something on if you don’t first know what it is. Jon and Justin first help identify what Paul was using as the armor of God and then explain how the believers use the armor for their protection in their daily lives. The most important part of the armor is understanding what it protects, the acceptance of the believer before God. Join the Theocast Community! Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information FREE EBOOK SUPPORT Theocast YOUTUBE FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

If you want to make Christians feel badly about themselves, one question to ask is, “How is evangelism going?” Many Christians think the way to do evangelism is through things like street preaching, handing out tracts, or sharing the gospel with someone on an airplane. Those things are fine and good--but they may not be the main way to do evangelism according to the New Testament. In today’s episode, Jon and Justin talk about loving our neighbor and doing evangelism, as well as what to say when we have opportunities to speak of Christ. Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information FREE EBOOK SUPPORT Theocast YOUTUBE FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

Christians struggle. We are often weak. We often feel cold and apathetic--even toward the things of God. We battle discouragement. Many believers are afraid to admit these things are true, but most of us live here. Jon and Justin talk openly about all of this on today’s episode. Take heart, there is hope for the weak! Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about some exciting changes that are coming to Theocast! Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information FREE EBOOK SUPPORT Theocast YOUTUBE FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

Does God really love me? If we’re honest, this is a question we all ask ourselves. Because of our sin, our consciences, and the assaults of the enemy, we often doubt whether God really does love us. Is he not frustrated, fed up, and displeased with us? Does God really delight to give us good gifts? Does he really delight to save us? Jon and Justin seek to answer these questions from Scripture in today’s episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk openly with the members about what keeps them going and also update the members on some exciting changes coming to Theocast! Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information FREE EBOOK SUPPORT Theocast YOUTUBE FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin talk about the accusations of Satan that often go undetected. We are conditioned to think that the evil one’s accusations look a certain way, but he is subtle and deceitful. Just by virtue of the fact that we live in the world (which is influenced by Satan), there are ways we think that cause us to question our legitimacy at every turn. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk very personally about their own battles with shame and guilt that have nothing at all to do with what God has revealed in Scripture. Resources: Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information FREE EBOOK SUPPORT Theocast YOUTUBE FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

Does too much grace lead to sin? Quite the opposite, actually. It is the preaching of Christ that leads to repentance. The right division of the law and the gospel--and the heralding of the mercy and grace of God--produces repentance in the saints. These things build a culture in a local church where it is safe to confess real sin. All of this fosters real sanctification. Jon and Justin talk about this on today’s episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about mercy, grace, confession, and forgiveness in the church amongst the saints. The guys also consider that the holier and more mature Christians become, the more gentle, patient, and merciful they become. Resources: FREE EBOOK SUPPORT Theocast YOUTUBE FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM

What is the gospel? Sadly, the answer many church-going people would give has a lot to do with us. This has left some self-righteous and proud. This has left many anxious and fearful. The gospel, however, is the message about what Jesus alone has secured for sinners: the forgiveness of sins, imputed righteousness, and an eternal inheritance. Note: Semper Reformanda is included as part of the regular episode FREE EBOOK: https://theocast.org/product/faithvsfaithfulness/ SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/theocast FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/ Resources: Our episode on Introduction to Law/Gospel Distinction Our episode on What Is (and Is Not) the Gospel Our episode on The Prove Yourself Gospel Our episode on Why the Gospel Terrifies Christians Our episode on Following Jesus Is Not the Gospel

Jon and Justin revisit the first episode they ever recorded together, “The Dark Side of Christianity.” If we are going to live honest and helpful lives in the church, we have to acknowledge that things often feel dark. Where does this darkness come from? It comes from the corruption of our flesh, and it comes from the work of the evil one. The guys talk about both in this episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin go a little bit deeper into the realities of the demonic realm and spiritual warfare. Resources: “The Bruised Reed” by Richard Sibbes “The Whole Armor of God” by Iain Duguid Our episode on Romans 7 Our episode - Christian, There Will Be Sin

In the church, we are to preach the gospel indiscriminately to all mankind. God is in the business of saving very sinful people, and if we’re honest, this can be hard for us. Alongside this, once we are saved into the church, we lock arms with other believers in order to live lives of faithfulness and holiness. Here is the rub: the church can be grossly misunderstood in both facets of its life--in both the free offer of Christ to sinners and in the practice of piety and discipline. Jon and Justin discuss all of this in today’s episode. Semper Reformanda: In light of our understanding of the gospel and the need for compassion toward fellow sinners, Jon and Justin consider several questions: Should Christians be pacifists? What about the rule of law? Are we just enabling abusive behavior? The guys also talk about encountering harm and hatred for Christ’s name. Resources: “The Whole Christ: Legalism, Antinomianism, and Gospel Assurance—Why the Marrow Controversy Still Matters” by Sinclair Ferguson Our episode: Why the Gospel Terrifies Christians Our episode: Who Does the Gospel Offend Grace Reformed Network - Charter Meeting Information, October 2023

If you listen to many in the church today, you would think that the purpose of the Christian life is abstinence from sin. Is that really it? Jon and Justin talk about what we are called to in the Christian life. Because of what Jesus has done, because we have rest, because we have been filled, we now go and serve and love. What does it mean to live as an ambassador of the kingdom of Christ? Why is it that we should seek to be spent for the cause of Christ? Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about getting up every day and continuing on in the fight. How do we do that? Then, the guys talk about sanctification--ways it has often been presented and what it is really about. It is a fun conversation, including a reference to an old hymn, “Stand Up for Jesus”!

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin consider why it is that we can’t stop sinning. There has been debate about Romans 7 throughout the history of the church--as to whether Paul is writing as a Christian or not. (Disclaimer: It is our position that he is writing as a Christian.) The guys spend some time in the text of Romans 7 and then go on to consider the experience of sinner-saints in this fallen world. Truer words have never been written about the Christian experience than Romans 7. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about their presumptions as preachers. What do they understand about themselves and about their people? How does this affect preaching? If we are sinner-saints, what do we need to hear when we gather on Sundays? Resources: Justin’s Sermon: Truer Words Have Never Been Written (Romans 7:7-20) Justin’s Sermon: The Cry of Every Believer (Romans 7:21-25)

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin have another conversation related to end-times theology. This time, the guys consider the perspective that the church is to be ushering in a golden age prior to Christ’s return--that through the faithfulness of the church, things will continue to get better and better. Is this what the Bible teaches? How does this perspective affect the method and messaging of the church? Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss whether movements like Christian Reconstructionism and Christian Nationalism are related to prosperity theology. And what about persecution? Is it a good thing? Should we pray for it and seek it out? Resources: Our episode on Two Kingdoms w/ David VanDrunen Our episode on the Reformed Response to Theonomy

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin talk about the end times. For many in the church, the conversation about last things--and the return of Christ--has been steeped in fear. The return of the Savior is presented as a frightful thing for the believer, and this is supposed to motivate us to action. The New Testament presentation is different. The return of Christ is meant to both give the believer hope and motivate us to action now. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue the conversation on last things by considering heavenly reward and a judgment according to works. The guys also touch on the “other-worldliness” of confessionalism.

In the second of two episodes on theonomy, Jon and Justin consider some of the practical fallout of theonomy: the gospel tends to be obscured, the mission of the church is confused, and burdens are placed on the saints that we were never meant to bear. How should we respond pastorally to these concerns and the assertions of theonomy? Note: Semper Reformanda is included in today’s episode. Resources: 1689 Baptist Perspective: Confessionalism and Theonomy Why is Theonomy Unbiblical? Is the Law Relevant Today? Covenant Theology: Introduction & Overview

In the first of two episodes on theonomy, Jon and Justin seek to generally define theonomy and then respond to it theologically. The guys consider a confessional understanding of the threefold division of the law, the distinction between moral and positive law, and 1689 Federalism as safeguards against theonomy. Note: Semper Reformanda is included in today’s episode. Resources: 1689 Baptist Perspective: Confessionalism and Theonomy Why is Theonomy Unbiblical? Is the Law Relevant Today? Covenant Theology: Introduction & Overview

At multiple points, Paul writes that he is not ashamed of the gospel. Why did he need to write that? What is it about the gospel that could bring shame on someone who preaches it--or believes it? The gospel offends us in our self-righteousness. That’s clear. It also offends us in our licentiousness. The truth of our union with Christ and liberation from sin’s dominion can fly in the face of the desires of our flesh. In all of this, the Lord has us and will complete the good work he has begun in us! Jon and Justin talk about all of this on today’s episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider how we will bear reproach for the sake of Christ and the gospel. This is the normative experience of Christians.

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin consider how our own righteousness only leads to death. In Romans 5:12-21, Paul makes it clear that we have all been counted with Adam’s guilt--and that the only hope we have is that we would be counted with Christ’s righteousness. By faith, Jesus becomes our representative. This is great news! We have gained more in Jesus than we lost in Adam. This is the message of the entire Bible. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss the imputed righteousness of Christ and what that means for our good works. How do imputed righteousness and our obedience go together?

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin continue a lengthy conversation about men and women--and how we relate to one another in the home and in the church. There has been a lot of cultural baggage that has influenced the church through history on these matters. There has been a lot of pain caused and damage done. This conversation is not comprehensive or exhaustive. We thank you for listening with charity and kindness, as we all seek to grow in our understanding. NOTE: There is no Semper Reformanda this week due to the nature of the conversation. Resources: Simply Trinity by Matthew Barrett Justin’s sermon on Ephesians 5:22-6:9