Theocast

We believe that all of the Bible--from Genesis to Revelation--is a testimony about Jesus. We believe there is law and gospel in the Old and New Testaments. These convictions are historical, confessional, Reformed convictions. Yet, many in our day get very nervous about seeing Christ in all of the Bible and of understanding the Scriptures in terms of law and gospel. Our fear is that, at the end of it, well-meaning people discourage the saints from seeing Christ for them in all of the Scriptures. Jon and Justin talk about this on today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue to talk (passionately) about the tendency of many to remove Jesus from many passages of the Bible. Then the guys talk about how effective the heralding of Christ actually is. Resources: Introduction to Covenant Theology: https://youtu.be/iCfzmujnlHo Desiring God Article: https://www.desiringgod.org/messages/exposition-or-imposition The Master's Seminary Article: https://blog.tms.edu/is-christ-in-every-verse Grace To You Article: https://www.gty.org/library/articles/A235/reexamining-the-eternal-sonship-of-christ #reformedtheology #preachingChrist #theocast

Jon and Justin talk about the start of a new network of confessional Baptist churches, called the Grace Reformed Network. The guys explain the need for the network, as well as the theological positions of the network. If you'd like to learn more, please visit gracereformednetwork.org Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more personally about what led to starting the Grace Reformed Network and the need for more confessional churches.

We are often made to think that the Christian life is one where we move from triumph to triumph--and from spiritual experience to spiritual experience. But that is not reality. It is not the promise of the Scripture. This side of the resurrection, we are learning to trust Christ in the midst of weakness and the battle against the flesh. We are learning to depend more upon grace. It is not a bad thing for us to come to a place where we know Christ is all we have. The guys consider all of this in today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin answer listener questions on Two Kingdoms doctrine and also on views of eschatology as it relates to the redemptive-historical framework of Scripture. Resources:Our episode on triumphalismOur episode on Two KingdomsOur episode eschatology (Left Behind?) FREE EBOOK Theocast.org/primer

Jon and Justin seek to answer the question, "What must I do to be saved?" This is a question that was posed to Jesus at numerous points. The apostles also addressed this question repeatedly. The guys consider two parables from the Lord Jesus: the Good Samaritan and the Rich Young Man; and also a passage from the apostle Paul: Romans 2:6-13. Reformed categories of law and gospel are essential if we are going to rightly understand these passages. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider how obedience is talked about in a context where law and gospel are confused. The guys talk about so much of what is preached is effectively easy-listening legalism and prosperity theology. Resources:Our episode on What Is-and Is Not-the Gospel?Our episode on Law/Gospel DistinctionOur episode on Why the Gospel Terrifies Christians

Do John Piper and Doug Wilson Obscure Faith Alone? Here is how we approach this question in today's episode. Every generation has to come to grips with the gospel. The imputation of the righteousness of Christ to sinners--as our whole and only righteousness--has often been under assault in the history of the church. It is in our day in the form of the Federal Vision and the teaching of final justification. Jon and Justin engage with both of these errors today in an effort to clarify and defend the heart of the gospel, which is the righteousness of Christ counted to sinners. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin go into more depth on the Federal Vision and then contend for the importance of confessions of faith, as well as the safety provided by a sound theological framework. Resources:Podcasts from Mid-America Reformed Seminary on Federal VisionR. Scott Clark on Federal VisionOur episode on final justification (live from CA)Our episode on how the gospel terrifies Christians

Repentance is a threatening word for many in the church. It shouldn't be. Repentance is often taught and discussed in a way that is unhelpful. In this episode, Jon and Justin consider repentance from a biblical and Reformed perspective. God is the one who repents us. Repentance, at its heart, is an agreement with God and a siding with God against our sin. The turning we do in repentance is always a turning to Christ. And, it is possible to be repentant even in the midst of ongoing sin. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue to talk about repentance and ways in which discussion of the topic typically goes off the rails. Rather than weaponizing repentance and sanctification, there is a better way. Resources:Our episodes on Lordship SalvationA Critique of Lordship SalvationWhy I left Lordship SalvationOur episodes on CalvinismOur episode on how pietism ruins good works

Building off of last week's episode, when we find no joy or rest in our religion, we tend to seek it elsewhere. Christians are prone to clutter their lives will all kinds of things that might be good--but they end up keeping us from the things that will truly bring us joy. On top of this, we naturally think that we need to do things to find rest, when, in reality, we rest in order to do. Jon and Justin talk about all of this on today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk personally about leaving pietism and about the spiritual abuse that even occurs in some environments. The guys close by considering how Jesus, himself, is the gospel. Resources:Our episodes on the quest for religious experienceOur episode on leaving pietismOur episode on how pietism ruins good works

Is the Christian life one where believers move from spiritual experience to spiritual experience? Or from triumph to triumph? Or is the Christian life one where we learn to trust Christ in the midst of weakness and the battle against sin? What does it mean to be satisfied in Christ? Jon and Justin seek to answer these questions and consider how the quest to find true religion in anything subjective leaves us unsettled and exhausted. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk personally about what a subjective emphasis in religion tends to produce--and then the guys turn to consider how the gifts of God to us don't have anything to do with us. Resources:Our episodes on the implications of covenant theologyOur episode on law/gospelOur episode on theology of the crossOur episode on "More Than a Feeling"

In this episode, Jon and Justin consider James 2, and in particular, the apostles' assertion that faith without works is dead. How should we understand this in the context of the entire letter of James? How has our quest for personal religious experience clouded our understanding of a passage like James 2? What are the good works we should be concerned with? And how is it that the commands of God are not burdensome? The guys discuss all this and more. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about the clear emphasis of the New Testament that the saints love one another. The guys also touch on the confusion that exists around good works in the church today. Resources:Jon Moffitt's sermons in JamesOur episode on pietism ruining good worksOur episode on the law, gospel, and sanctificationOur episode on sanctification not being about us

As a Christian, do you ever feel like you are on probation or even on parole? As though you've been set free from prison, but now you need to do well enough to be finally free from fear and the threat of punishment? Many of us feel this way. Many in the church talk this way. Jon and Justin consider justification and the finished work of Christ--and what that means for the Christian life in today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about final justification and why it is harmful. Then, the guys move on to consider being a fruitful Christian, as well as the writing of John Owen. Enjoy! Resources:Our episode on the law, the gospel, and sanctificationOur episode on why the gospel terrifies ChristiansOur episode on more than forgiven FREE EBOOK

When we preach the gospel, there are often objections. One of the most common is, "Yeah, but what about good works?" In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about good works from a confessional perspective. What are good works? Who and what are they for? Why do we do them? How do we do them? The guys answer these questions and consider how pietism has damaged our thinking about good works. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider how pietism has made us less effective in doing biblical good works for the good of neighbor and honor of God. The guys also talk about how the contemporary church has much more in common with the medieval church than many would like to admit. Resources:Our book: RestWhat is Peitism?Leaving pietismOur episode on spiritual disciplinesSeries on Spiritual Disciplines

Jon and Justin have a free and frank conversation about the law, the gospel, and sanctification. Oftentimes, the law and the gospel are confused. The law is relativized. The gospel is made to sound hard. And sanctification sounds terrible. This isn't how it should be. The guys consider the work of Christ in fulfilling the law as a covenant of works, the freedom that Christ has secured for us, and how God's law and work of sanctification are great things for the believer. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about good works. There are many good works emphasized in the church today that are nowhere to be found in the Scriptures. What are good works, biblically defined? What are some of the good works that are clear in Scripture that just aren't talked about in the church? Resources:Our episode: Your Sanctification is not for YouOur episode: Law/Gospel DistinctionOur teaching series on Covenant Theology

It sounds a little crazy to say that the gospel terrifies Christians. But it clearly does. Christians are prone to qualify the grace of God in Christ. Christians are prone to hedge on justification by faith alone. At times, Christians can even be unsettled by the preaching of Christ from all of Scripture. Why are these things so? Jon and Justin consider history, fear-based theology, pietism, law/gospel confusion, and Christ-centered preaching in today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue the conversation on why the gospel is frightening for Christians. The guys answer some potential objections to a reformed understanding of the sufficiency of Christ. Resources:FREE EbookOur episodes on LordshipOur episodes on pietismOur episode on law/gospel

Today's episode is a little different than normal. Jon and Justin talk personally and autobiographically about their pilgrimage into finding rest--from a confessional and covenantal perspective. If you have been listening to Theocast for some time, we hope this encourages you. If you are newer, this will be a good and personal introduction to a number of the things we regularly discuss. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin hone in on the Christian life--and how a confessional perspective is completely different than that of pietism. Resources:Our FREE ebook: theocast.org/primer

We all tend to hope in things of this world that will ultimately disappoint us. Our anger and frustration and despair make this abundantly clear. Jon and Justin talk about some of these things we tend to hope in--and how the church, at points, has only encouraged us to do so. At the end of it all, peace, rest, and hope can only be found in Jesus Christ and the promises God has made to us in him. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about how we tend to place our hope in things that cannot deliver. The guys also consider the theology of the cross and how we need to constantly remind one another of the hope we have in Christ. Resources:Our episode on the theology of the crossOur episode on Two Kingdom doctrineOur episode on the purpose of the churchOur episode on the cravings of the flesh

In today’s episode, Jon and Justin have a conversation with friends from 1517 on the scandal of Christmas. We grow accustomed to talking about God becoming a man in order to suffer and die to save his people. But that is shocking news! Who would have ever planned salvation this way? We certainly would not have. But God did. The group discusses the humanity of Jesus, the purpose of the incarnation, the struggle of the disciples to understand the mission of Christ, as well as the point of Christmas. Podcast: 30 Minutes in the New Testament - Chad Bird & Daniel Emry Price 40 Minutes in the Old Testament - Eric Sorensen & Daniel Emry Price

In today's episode, Jon and Justin consider two kinds of people: the people who are arrogant in their sin and do not think they need mercy; and the people who doubt and struggle wondering if there is in fact mercy for them. The guys talk about the law and the gospel, church discipline, and the posture of God toward the weak. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk further about observations they have made in the church regarding those who doubt and those who are arrogant in their sin. The guys get into church discipline, as well as how pastors have failed to rightly divide the law and the gospel. Resources:Our episode on the cravings of the fleshOur episode on law/gospelOur episode on the dark side of ChristianityOur FREE ebook on "Rest"

We all battle besetting, habitual sin. The normal experience of the Christian in this fallen world is to battle against the corruption of our flesh. This war will go on until we die or Christ returns. We struggle to process this battle, though. We are often discouraged. And the church hasn't always helped. In this episode, Jon and Justin have a historical, theological, and biblical discussion on the battle against the flesh and the hope of Christ. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin answer some potential objections. They also consider how the grace that justifies is the grace that sanctifies, as well as the Christian's need for the church. Resources:Our video on habitual sinOur episode on the cravings of the fleshOur episode on pietismOur episode on biblicismOur episode on law/gospelOur book on assurance, "Safe"

Many of us, if we are honest, often live lives characterized by fear and hopelessness. This is the plight common to fallen man, true. But how has the church failed to help the saints have hope and peace? Jon and Justin talk about how a recovery of sound doctrine and of a confessional, otherworldly perspective is essential for our hope, peace, and rest. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider some of the most significant issues of doctrine that the saints need to be acquainted with. These include: a confessional perspective, law/gospel distinction, uses of the law, and covenant theology. Resources:Our three episodes on implications of covenant theologyOur episode on law/gospelOur episode on "Have We Missed the Point of Church?"

What is the resting heart rate of the Christian life? From a biblical and Reformed perspective, it is union with Christ. By faith, we are in Christ, and everything that is ours is his. Through union with Christ, we are justified, sanctified, and glorified. And, we are also united to one another in Christ. God has given us the church, the ministry of the word, and the sacraments. These, too, are about our union with Jesus. Jon and Justin consider all of these things in today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue to talk about the inherently corporate nature of the Christian life, as well as how union with Christ produces unity in the church. Resources:Our episode on More Than Forgiven

Have we missed the point of church? From a Reformed, confessional perspective, it seems we have. In short, the point of church is the forgiveness of sins, the declaration of righteousness on account of Christ, and the fellowship of the saints. If these things are rightly understood, the question, "Why do you need the church?", answers itself. Jon and Justin consider all of this and how the church is the way God sustains his people in this life. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about plans for something called the Grace Reformed Network. The guys also consider more implications of a confessional perspective on church. Resources:Episode: Pop Church CircusEpisode: Struggling with the Church

There seem to be a number of people "deconstructing" these days--and by that we mean deconstructing the Christian faith and leaving it. At Theocast, we are not unfamiliar with deconstruction. We do some deconstructing of unhelpful theology in an effort to pull people toward the sufficiency of Christ for sinners. On this episode, Jon and Justin make observations about the "Christianity" people are leaving, as well as offer thoughts on how to do deconstructing well. Semper Reformanda: The guys continue the conversation on deconstructing by speaking more to those in a confessional environment about the dangers of always having to be against something. Ultimately, we need to remember that the goal of everything we do is for the saints to rest in Jesus Christ. Resources:Episode on struggling with the churchEpisode on leaving pietismEpisode on assurance

In our third of three episodes on the implications of covenant theology, Jon and Justin discuss the significance of the covenant of works as it relates to the work of Christ. When we begin to see the relationship between the covenant of works and the work of Christ in our place, it becomes clear how are more than just forgiven through our union with Jesus by faith. We are declared righteous. We have peace with God now and forever. It really is finished. All really is well. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about the fallout produced by a denial of the covenant of works. The guys discuss final/future justification as a part of that and then conclude with some thoughts on the sufficiency of Christ to save sinners. Resources:Our series on covenant theologyOur episode on Final Justification by Mark JonesJon's covenant theology series: Part One Part Two

In our second of two episodes on the implications of covenant theology, Jon and Justin consider the purpose and point of the whole Bible. It's not an instruction manual. It's not a step-by-step guide to godliness. It's not a medicine cabinet to cure everything that ails us. Rather, the Bible is about redemption. It's about Jesus. The guys unpack the implications of that and consider how to go to the Bible, how to use it, and how to understand it. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about the relationship between covenant theology and redemptive-historical theology (hint: they're the same). After that, we take a deeper dive into covenant theology. In particular, we discuss the tri-covenantal framework of redemption, works, and grace. Resources:FREE Ebook: theocast.org/primerOur series on covenant theologySacred Bond: Covenant Theology Explored Second Edition"The Mystery of Christ, His Covenant, & His Kingdom" by Samuel Renihan

For many people, when they go to Old Testament, they leave confused. The Old Testament seems to be a disjointed collection of stories and full of different kinds of literature that don't seem to hang together. When seen through the lens of covenant theology, the Old Testament, is a cohesive presentation of God and his plan to save sinners through his promised Christ. Who is this God? What is he like? Can he be trusted? How will he save us? Jon and Justin discuss these questions and more in today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider how important types and shadows are in the Old Testament--and how an over-emphasis of a literal interpretation of the Old Testament is unhelpful. Resources:Our series on covenant theology

People make various diagnoses of what ails the church today. To some, it's a loss of a commitment to moral and social values. To others, it's a general lack of acceptance. To others, it's that we don't preach obedience and holiness enough. If we were to fix these things, would it cure what ails us? Jon and Justin consider these questions and suggest that the issue in so much of the church today is that we're preaching an anemic gospel. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about the sufficiency of Christ and the primacy of the gospel in the life of the church. And Jon talks about his experience at a conference he attended recently (and, of course, Justin has thoughts on that).

Many people, if they were honest, would admit to being confused by the Bible--but not only confused, discouraged. It shouldn't be this way. The Bible is the testimony about Jesus Christ, who came to save sinners like us. In it, we should see our only true and lasting hope. How should we approach the Bible in order to better understand it in light of Christ? What are things we need to know so that the Bible becomes a balm for our souls, rather than a billy club? Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about the priesthood of the believer and how it has been misunderstood and misapplied. We also consider how we got to this place in the evangelical church where hope in Christ is often not what we are given from the pages of Scripture. Resources:FREE Ebook theocast.org/primerRedemptive Historical Bible Reading Plan Books:"Sacred Bond""The Mystery of Christ, His Covenant & His Kingdom"Our Covenant Theology teaching series

Many people are listening to The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill. Many people have been impacted by Mark Driscoll and Mars Hill Church--in positive and negative ways. It seemed appropriate to us to have a conversation about the podcast. Our aim is not to cast shade on Mark Driscoll or Mars Hill, but rather, to consider things that we all can learn. We bring on our newest regular contributor, Patrick Crandall, for this conversation. Semper Reformanda: The guys talk about an appropriate posture regarding the failures of other Christians and Christian leaders. And then, we consider how pastors and members can work to build healthy cultures of leadership in our churches. FREE ebook theocast.org/primer SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

Is your faith genuine? We all struggle. We all wrestle. We all doubt. That's part of what it means to be fallen, but this produces real questions: Is the message regarding faith in Christ legitimate? If so, what is saving faith? How should we define it? And what about that bit about the demons believing? Jon and Justin seek to answer these questions from the Scripture and from the confessions. Semper Reformanda: The guys give pastoral counsel to the person who is wrestling with the legitimacy of his/her faith. (Hint: Our counsel involves the local church.) We also talk a little more about the state of the church in our day. Resources:Our episode on law/gospelOur episode on assurance SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

On today's episode, we have a special guest, David VanDrunen. We talk about the doctrine of Two Kingdoms and its implications. In short, we talk about Christianity and culture. What are Christians to be doing? What is the mission of the church? Are we to be ushering in the kingdom of God? We answer these questions and more. Semper Reformanda: The guys talk with David VanDrunen about common objections to Two Kingdoms doctrine. We cover objections from advocates of Neo Calvinism and theonomy. Does Two Kingdoms doctrine promote apathy toward cultural involvement? Giveaway: Living in God's Two Kingdoms by David VanDrunen

There are so many unrealistic expectations heaped upon pastors and congregants in the popular church. And there hasn't been much sound thinking on what really matters. Maybe you've experienced this? Maybe you're exhausted? Confused? In this episode, the guys seek to make the main things of church life clear--in order to set us free for life in the body of Christ. Semper Reformanda: The guys talk about anything and everything as it pertains to church: the primacy of Sunday morning and the preaching of Christ, pastoral care, music, church programs...you name it, it might be in there. Giveaway: Faith vs Faithfulness SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

In this second of two episodes on Lordship Salvation, Jon and Justin seek to further clarify concerns about LS theology. These concerns include: (1) confusion about the order of salvation; (2) a redefinition of faith; (3) a collapsing of law and gospel; (4) confusion on the uses of the law; and (5) a confusion of the relationship between justification and sanctification. Semper Reformanda: The guys talk about a sustainable approach to theology and the Christian life. What is it that will last over the long term? We also consider the posture and tone we desire for the ministry of Theocast. Resources:Our episode on law/gospelOur episode on "When the Faithful Falter"Our episode on AssuranceOur series on Covenant Theology Giveaway: ESB Bible from Post Tenebras Lux Bible Rebinding

Life in this fallen world is often hard. We struggle in our minds and hearts with any number of things. We fight against our own sin and are affected by the sin of others. In other words, the reasons for discouragement are many. Not surprisingly, we continually find ourselves in a battle against discouragement. If that is you, you are not alone. What can we say to these things? What hope is there in the struggle? Jon, Justin, and Jimmy discuss these things on today's episode. Semper Reformanda: The guys continue to consider the battle against discouragement and particularly how it is fought within the context of the local church. We offer some thoughts on how to assess your church context, but mainly the discussion centers around the necessity of living life in the body of Christ. Giveaway: "By Grace Alone" by Sinclair Ferguson

Listening to many preachers and teachers, it sounds like God, deep down, hates the world. Yes, he sent his Son to save sinners, but he does that only for his own glory--and even then, reluctantly. Jesus, too, really didn't care for sinners. He came holding his nose and was really on earth to rebuke everyone. This presentation of God has produced a lot of fear, or perhaps even hatred of him. But, the question is, is this presentation biblical? Jon and Justin consider that on this episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about adoption--how God has brought us into his own family through the blood of his Son. We now call God, "Father." The guys also get into some law/gospel stuff and a biblical understanding of God's holiness. Giveaway: "The Bruised Reed" by Richard Sibbes Scripture References:John 2:13-17Mark 2:23-27Luke 6:6-11Luke 13:1-5Mark 7:1-23Luke 18:18-27Luke 15Matthew 9:12-13Matthew 11:28-30Matthew 12:18-21John 10:14-18John 14:1-3John 17:24Luke 12:32Luke 7:36-50Romans 8:151 John 3:1

Here's a controversial statement: Faith never saved anybody. While that may sound shocking to many Christians, it's true. Faith doesn't save sinners; Jesus does. Faith is simply the means through which the merit and work of Christ are applied to us. Jon and Justin talk about the confusion that exists in the church today and how we tend to place our faith in things that don't save. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin encourage the listener who has struggled with assurance and who is now being told he/she is an antinomian or a hyper-grace advocate. The guys also talk obedience under the sufficiency of Christ. Resources:Our podcast on "Dying with Dignity"Justin's sermon on Genesis 12:10-14:24 Book Giveaway: "Putting Amazing Back into Grace" by Michael Horton

Often in Scripture, the faithful falter. For example, Abraham is called "the man of faith" by Paul, and he is upheld as the model of justification by faith in all of the Bible. Yet, he sold his wife into defilement and adultery--twice. Or, consider the disciples. In the aftermath of Jesus' death and resurrection, they are hiding together in a room, terrified. What do we make of these things? Semper Reformanda: The guys talk about preaching the Old Testament--and in particular, preaching on the lives of Old Testament saints. What are better and worse ways to do that? What are some common objections raised against redemptive-historical preaching? Scripture references:Genesis 12:10-20John 20:19-23 Resources:Justin's sermon: Faith, Fear, and God’s Faithfulness | Genesis 12:10-14:24Jon's sermon: John 20:19-23 – When Jesus Says “Peace” Giveaway: "Night Driving" by Chad Bird

What is the gospel? Rightly, many people point to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus--through which we are forgiven of sin, absolved of guilt, counted righteous, and promised to be raised from the dead. Praise God for that! But, there are parts of the gospel that tend to be left out or assumed. Jesus intercedes and advocates for us at the right hand of God. He has given us his Spirit. He reigns from the throne of God. And he is coming back for us. All of these things matter for our assurance and peace! Semper Reformanda: The guys talk pointedly about the return of Christ. We discuss the implications of this for the mission of the church, as well as why Christ's return is such good news for us. Scripture references:Hebrews 1:3-4, 7:23-25, 10:11-141 John 2:1-2Romans 8:9-11, 31-341 Peter 3:22Revelation 21:3-5John 5:22-27, 16, 20 Resources: Sermon: John 20:11-18 – The Missing Part of the Gospel (Jon Moffitt) Giveaway: "The Gospel Driven Life" by Michael Horton SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

We have gotten a number of questions regarding Lordship Salvation and the historic, reformed position on it. So, today, that is what Jon and Justin talk about. We talk about concerns over the definition of faith, the collapsing of law and gospel, and confusion on the uses of the law. We interact with John MacArthur's book, "The Gospel According to Jesus," as well as Michael Horton's "Christ the Lord." Semper Reformanda: The guys talk more on uses of the law--and how confusing the first and third use of the law is particularly damaging. Justin also offers thoughts on how some Puritan theology is unhelpful. Resources:Podcast: Law/Gospel Podcast: Are You a Legalist or an AntinomianFREE EBOOK: Safe in Christ - A primer on rest Giveaway: "Christ the Lord" by Michael Horton SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

In the church, we care for souls. But what is it that we are doing in that work? It is our conviction that we are helping one another die well--with dignity and hope. That may sound like a strange thing to say, but we are convinced it's biblical. In this life, we are weak and frail. We experience suffering and pain. Yet, Christ is our hope. And he has secured for us a life that is beyond this one. Semper Reformanda: The guys discuss a theology of the cross versus a theology of glory. And, we consider the point of our sanctification. Resources:Episode: Take Up Your Cross Giveaway: "Recovering Eden" by Zack Eswine FREE EBOOK: Theocast.org/primer SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

How would you describe a strong Christian? If you were to make a list of what characterizes a mature Christian, what would you put on that list? At Theocast, we are convinced that many would not answer these questions the way the apostles would have. As we look to the New Testament, what does it say about those who are strong in the church? Semper Reformanda: The guys discuss parachurch ministries and how they have often contributed to the confusion about what characterizes a strong Christian. Then, we talk more about the necessity of ordinary faithfulness in loving the weak in the church. Giveaway: "Spurgeon's Sorrows" by Zack Eswine FREE EBOOK: theocast.org/primer Scripture references:Romans 15:1-4Galatians 6:1-21 Thessalonians 5:14Ephesians 4:1-3Hebrews 3:15John 13:34 SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/ #biblicism #reformedtheology #bible

Biblicism might sound like a good thing...but it's not. Biblicism is a methodology that tends to introduce confusion and mystery into the Scriptures where there isn't any. It also tends to confuse doctrinal and theological categories such as law/gospel distinction and faith versus works. Jon and Justin consider these things and more in this episode. Semper Reformanda: The guys discuss how biblicism is related to theonomy and unhelpful views on the nation of Israel. And, as a bonus, we get into a little bit of eschatology. Resources:Episode: Is the whole Bible about Jesus? Episode: Is your theological system any good?Series: Covenant Theology seriesBook: "Living in God's Two Kingdoms" by David VanDrunnen SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

Is the whole Bible really about Jesus? Here at Theocast, we believe that it is. Jon and Justin consider the pattern of Jesus and the apostles with regard to how they understood the Bible. The guys consider typology and how it is useful in understanding the Scriptures--and biblicism and how it is not helpful. Semper Reformanda: Justin talks about the thing that has most impacted his preaching. Jon and Justin then discuss how important it is to see that every promise of Scripture finds its fulfillment in Jesus. Resources:Episode: Is Christ-Centered Preaching Dangerous?"The Mystery of Christ, His Covenant & His Kingdom" by Samuel Renihan"Preaching Christ in All of Scripture" by Edmond Clowney"The Unfolding Mystery: Discovering Christ in the Old Testament" by Edmond Clowney FREE Ebook: theocast.org/primer SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/ #discipleship #reformedtheology #bible

People often get the impression that being a disciple of Jesus is only for the strong. When it comes to discipleship, there is no room for fear or doubt. Is that the presentation of the gospel writers? Is that what we see in the New Testament epistles? Are followers of Jesus ever afraid? Do they doubt? Jon and Justin consider these things. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss the apostle Paul and how he understood himself to be the foremost of sinners. And then the guys go on to talk about the corrosion in the local church that has contributed to saints living in fear and anxiety. Resources:Episode: Discipleship is not about youEpisode: Take up your cross?1689 LBC, Chapters 13 and 18 Giveaway: "A Place for Weakness" by Michael Horton FREE Ebook: theocast.org/primer SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

If you look around in the church or on Christian social media, there seems to be a lot of confusion about repentance. What exactly is it, biblically? In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about repentance from various places in Scripture. And they consider repentance at conversion and the ongoing repentance that characterizes the Christian life. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss how none of us can adequately repent, how repentance is not penance, as well the fact that the Christian life is one of ongoing repentance. Resources:"The Whole Christ" by Sinclair Ferguson"Christ the Lord" by Michael Horton1689 LBC, Chapters 14 and 15 FREE Ebook: theocast.org/primer SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

Can Christians sin to the point that there is no mercy left? Is it normal for Christians to struggle with sin--even heinous or intentional sins? When Christians sin badly and for a long time, do we fall from God's favor? Is there any comfort for the struggler? Jon and Justin consider all of this and more in today's episode. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss the views of different traditions when it comes to apostasy and struggles with sin. Scripture references:2 Corinthians 11:3Romans 7:15ffGalatians 5:17Ephesians 4:27, 6:12ffJames 1:13-15, 4:71 Peter 5:81 John 1:8-2:2, 3:8 Resources:Our primer on assuranceOur episode on "How Much Can a Christian Sin?" Giveaway: "Safe in Christ: A Primer on Assurance" by Theocast

Is there any Christ in your Genesis? The book of Genesis is often mishandled. Peripheral things are over-emphasized and the main point is lost. Jon and Justin talk about Genesis from a redemptive-historical, covenantal, and Christ-centered perspective. Semper Reformanda Podcast: Jon and Justin take a deeper dive into covenant theology and the book of Genesis. It is our perspective that Genesis cannot be rightly understood apart from a covenantal framework. We aim to explain how and why. Resources: Our Covenant Theology teaching series Book study on Sam Renihan's book Our episode: Is Your Theological System Any Good? Ask Theocast: GENESIS: About Creation? A Science Book? NEITHER?!?! Book Giveaway: "Grace in Despair" by Dianna Carroll SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

Let's be real, self-righteousness is a problem in the church. When we are self-righteous, it is very dangerous for others--and it is detrimental for ourselves. Jon and Justin talk about the blindness of self-righteousness, the harm that comes from it, and, of course, the sufficiency of Christ. Semper Reformanda Podcast: Jon and Justin speak to people who are in the "cage stage" of coming out of pietism. In short, calm down, trust Christ, love others, and pursue obedience. The guys also consider the posture we want to have in engaging others. In all of this, it's important to remember that it is the law--not the gospel--that is a hammer. Scripture:John 19:31Philippians 3:1-11Luke 18:9-14Matthew 7:1-5Romans 2:1-3 Book Recommendation: "The Whole Christ" by Sinclair Ferguson

A lot of times when we look at our lives, we question the grace of God. Maybe that's because of how we're doing, spiritually. Or it could be because our circumstances are hard. We wrestle with whether God really is graciously inclined toward us. What is the antidote to this? It is to look to Christ. He is the evidence of God's grace toward us. Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about the goodness and the sweetness of confessional theology--as well as the confusion and harm that exists outside of it. Resources:1689 LBC (especially 2.1, 5.5) Scripture:Ephesians 1:3-14, 2:4-7Romans 5:1-11Hebrews 10:1-14, 12:1-2Genesis 1-3 Giveaway: "Christianity and Liberalism" by J. Gresham Machen SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

"Jesus-plus" theology has always been popular. People add things to the gospel and to Jesus in order to legitimize their Christian lives. Is Jesus really enough for us? Not just for our salvation, but for our Christian lives? Aren't there other things we need to be concerned for? Jon and Justin consider this and more. Semper Reformanda: They guys begin by giving give more information about our plans for Semper Reformanda. And then, Jon and Justin talk about the woke church. Is the woke church preaching a different gospel? The guys also talk about marriage, complementarianism, and other things Christians tend to get worked up over. Resources:"Ordinary" by Michael HortonIs the Woke Church Movement a False Gospel? | ask TheocastFREE Ebook: Theocast.org/primer SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/​ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org​ TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org​ INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/

Our listeners have been asking for a podcast about leaving dispensationalism. We try to give the people what they want! Jon and Justin talk about why we are not dispensational. We talk personally and theologically, covering topics such as: the redemptive-historical framework of Scripture, covenant theology, law/gospel distinction, sanctification, and the ordinary means of grace. Semper Reformanda Podcast: In our first ever Semper Reformanda podcast, we talk more in-depth about the differences between a confessional, reformed perspective and a dispensational perspective. We tell a story or two and share some of the things that we most want our listeners to know. Resources: FREE EBOOK Theocast.org/primer Our podcast: Law/Gospel https://youtu.be/EMSfwPUuuVk Our podcast: Demands of the Gospel? https://youtu.be/VHUmO4eD8Lk Our podcast: Are You a Legalist or an Antinomian? https://youtu.be/xvGhu9Pc2LA Our teaching series: Covenant Theology https://youtu.be/iCfzmujnlHo SUPPORT Theocast: https://theocast.org/give/ FACEBOOK: Theocast: https://www.facebook.com/Theocast.org TWITTER: Theocast: https://twitter.com/theocast_org INSTAGRAM: Theocast: https://www.instagram.com/theocast_org/