Theocast - Rest In Christ: Recent Episodes
Jon Moffitt & Justin Perdue
Our primary focus at Theocast is to encourage weary pilgrims to rest in Christ. We facilitate simple conversations about the Christian life from a reformed perspective through our weekly podcasts, primers, books, articles, and educational material.
Maybe you're out there feeling weary, burdened, beat up, or left behind. Even in your experience as a Christian in the church, you feel like you've been run over, like you don't fit. You know that Jesus is real, but you wonder if the problem is with you. If you've felt this way repeatedly, and if you've been made to feel this way over and over, this podcast is for you.
Today, Jon and Justin are going to have a tender and honest conversation about the things that matter most to us as pastors and why Theocast exists at all: to hold out Jesus Christ for us. He came to save people like you and me. Join us as we rejoice in Him today and talk about Him. We hope you are encouraged.
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Have you ever found yourself resting in Christ, only to suddenly lose that peace? What can rob you of your rest in Christ? Today's podcast addresses this very issue. We will explore the pitfalls that either trap us, preventing us from finding rest, or trip us up once we are at rest, causing anxiety, pain, and suffering. These pitfalls can undermine the very hope we have in the sufficiency of Christ. Join Justin and Jon as they walk through three different areas of life that cause us to lose our rest in Christ. We pray this is encouraging to you.
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Today, it seems like if you are not suffering from some kind of ailment or cancer, you know someone who is or have had a family member or friend who has died because of it. It is a painful experience to watch someone lose their life and wither away. At times, our faith is crushed, and our assurance is called into question. Where is Jesus in all of this suffering?
We have the privilege of hosting a special guest, Mike Abendroth, who has recently written a book about this experience from his own perspective. We know this will be encouraging for you. If you get an opportunity to purchase the book, we highly recommend it!
NoCo Radio
Mike’s Book: Cancer Is Not Your Shepherd
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Some of you are probably really concerned about this title, thinking we've gone too far. Well, we're here to defend not ourselves, but to show you from Scripture that all power remains in Christ and Him crucified. The law is only here to guide or convict us. We're going to talk about the different uses of the law, but the law is powerless to save and powerless to sanctify. Let us prove it to you from Scripture.
Our episode on the Three Uses of the Law
Our episode on Walking by the Spirit
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People often criticize us here at Theocast, saying that we are not concerned about society, the culture in which we live, or even the country of which we are citizens. So today, Jon and Justin are going to address that. We're going to discuss the gospel and what the Lord is doing in building His church. How do all of these things affect our perspectives on society, culture, and the countries in which we live? We hope that this is encouraging and clarifying for you.
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One of the most famous Psalms that nearly everyone reads is Psalm 1. Jon and Justin want to highlight the distinction between the law and the gospel in Psalm 1, showing that it is not about how God blesses those who obey Him. Psalm 1 is not about you! You don't appear until Psalm 2, and that is where the gospel is!
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In listening to a lot of preaching today, it's clear that it's possible to talk about the gospel or even about the work of God without actually getting around to preaching the gospel itself—preaching Jesus Christ for sinners. This can happen with any number of passages, but today Jon and Justin are going to have a conversation about a well-known text: the interchange between Jesus and Nicodemus from John chapter three. There's a lot of truly epic content in this passage, including the sovereign grace of God, the work of God, and regeneration in the new birth. Unfortunately, the gospel message within this passage—the Son of Man being lifted up for us—is often not talked about enough. We hope this discussion is encouraging and clarifying for you.
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Many Christians struggle with reading and understanding the Old Testament. They know it's supposed to be about Jesus, and they've read the New Testament, but they're just disconnected from the Old. Today's podcast is our attempt to give you reasons why you should read your Old Testament. By doing so, you will see the wonder and glory it defines for us, which leads us to Christ and His grace.
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Jesus said that those whom the Son sets free are free indeed. But maybe you're listening to this podcast and thinking, "I don't really feel free." There may be reasons for that. The gospel is marvelous and wonderful, and it has many facets. At times, certain aspects aren't discussed as much. The forgiveness of sins, absolution from guilt, and the imputation of Christ's righteousness are wonderful truths. Additionally, we have been set free from the kingdom of darkness and from the evil one. Today on the podcast, Jon and Justin have a conversation about that freedom and how it is an essential part of the gospel message.
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Recently, Christian social media has been ablaze with the topic of mental illness and whether or not it is a real thing. In particular, diagnoses such as ADHD, PTSD, and OCD. We thought we would lend our voices to this discussion from a theological lens, analyzing the implications of the fall of Adam, a world of suffering, and compassion for our fellow man. For today’s discussion, Jon and Justin are joined by Scott Keith and Chad Bird of 1517! We hope and pray you find this conversation encouraging!
1517’s Website
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What do Baptists and Anglicans have in common? Jon and Justin recently had the opportunity to be on the Doth Protest podcast with our friends James and Drew, who are Anglican. We discussed the Reformation, our backgrounds, what we believe, and what we have in common. In particular, the emphasis of the podcast centered around Jesus, God's grace, and the sufficiency of our Savior. We were encouraged by the conversation, and we trust that you will be too.
Doth Protest Podcast
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Exhausted? Beat up? Suffering? Where are you, God? Why is this happening? Why can't I hear you? Why can't I feel your presence? For those who have these feelings and are exhausted, just needing a glimmer of hope, Justin and Jon have something for you today. We want to point you to Christ and His gospel.
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What is antinomianism? Are Jon and Justin, here at Theocast, antinomian? What about the law and the Christian life? Does the law have a place in the life of the believer? What about the difference between lordship salvation and antinomianism? Is it one or the other? Recently, Jon and Justin had an opportunity to discuss these topics—the uses of the law, union with Christ, and many other good subjects—with our friends over at The Pactum, Pat Abendroth and Mike Grimes. We hope this episode clarifies these issues for you and encourages you in your Christian life.
Pat’s new book! The Active Obedience of Christ
The Pactum
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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!
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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Jon’s Course: Saint, Sinner, and the Supernatural
Justin’s Course: Law and Gospel Distinction
Our episode on Romans 7
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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.
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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
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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!
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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).
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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
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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.
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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?
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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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.)
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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?
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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!
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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.
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Grace Reformed Network Charter Meeting Information
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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.
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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
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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
In today’s episode, Jon and Justin begin 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
In today’s episode, Jon and Justin talk about the fact that it is God who saves sinners--meaning, he does it all. From the beginning to the very end, salvation is a work of God. He brings us all the way home. To have this conversation, the guys consider Ezekiel 36 and 37. The Lord says some strong things about our condition and about his work. May our souls be comforted in him.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about the reality of suffering and weakness in this life--and how the thing that is most helpful to us is getting glimpses of God’s eternal plan.
For today’s episode, Jon and Justin are joined by Ken Jones (pastor of Glendale Baptist Church and host of Saints and Sinners Unplugged). The guys talk about the fact that Christians will sin--perhaps very badly for a really long time. What is the normal Christian experience? If we have been united to Christ and justified in him, how should we think about our battle against the corruption of our flesh? How can is it the church can be a safe place for sinners?
Semper Reformanda is included in today’s episode for free!
Semper Reformanda: Jon, Justin, and Ken speak to the fact that Christians struggle with all kinds of sins--even sins related to our sexuality and gender. Then, the guys have a very good conversation about church discipline and when it is that a Christian should question his/her salvation.
Ken’s Show - Saints and Sinners Unplugged
- YouTube
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
For today’s episode, Jon and Justin are joined by Ken Jones (pastor of Glendale Baptist Church and host of Saints and Sinners Unplugged). The guys talk about revivalism. There are two distinct traditions within American Protestantism: one is the confessional/ordinary means of grace tradition; the other pietistic and revivalistic. What are the differences between the two? What about the First Great Awakening? What is it that characterizes any genuine movement of God?
Semper Reformanda is included in today’s episode for free!
Semper Reformanda: Jon, Justin, and Ken answer the question, “What do we make of the Puritans?” And then, the guys go on do discuss the Marrow Controversy and how it is applicable to today.
Ken’s Show - Saints and Sinners Unplugged
- YouTube
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
For today’s episode, Jon and Justin are joined by Ken Jones (pastor of Glendale Baptist Church and host of Saints and Sinners Unplugged). The guys talk about what it is to preach Christ from all of Scripture--and how there are many approaches to preaching that claim the label “Christ-centered” but are not really heralding the person and work of Jesus to sinners. And what about application in preaching? How should we think about that?
Semper Reformanda: Jon, Justin, and Ken talk about the preachers and theologians who have most impacted them and then offer some thoughts on commentaries for preachers and laypersons.
Ken’s Show - Saints and Sinners Unplugged
- YouTube
- Apple Podcasts
- Spotify
In today's episode, Jon and Justin reflect on the world of conservative reformed Christianity. Taking a dive into dead orthodoxy on one side to pietism and revivalism on the other, the guys ask: how did we get here? What is God expecting? Can we identify these pitfalls in our own lives? This episode is not about just pointing out faults but being able to recognize harmful habits we've fallen into and moving past them.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss the purpose of the Christian life and more personal aspects of their understanding on recent events in the reformed world.
Join the SR community here!
While on the west coast, Jon and Justin were invited by Chris Gordon (host of Abounding Grace Radio and pastor of Escondido United Reformed Church) to do some recording. This episode is the third portion of that conversation. The guys talk about what it’s like for an evangelical to walk into a confessional church. What is hard? What is confusing? Yet what is it that’s so attractive? What are pastoral concerns for those making the transition out of emotionalism?
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about differences between emotionalism and confessionalism--when it comes to corporate worship. In short, we come to receive from the Lord. What does that mean? What does that look like?
Part 1 of this conversation
Part 2 of this conversation
The objective in this episode is simple: to talk about the sufficiency of Jesus Christ and the rest he provides to sinners. In order to do that, Jon and Justin consider the law, the judgement seat, and the gospel--which is the power of God for salvation to all who believe. We ought not be afraid of wrath or condemnation. We ought not be afraid to go to Jesus in our time of need. He really does bid us to come to him for rest.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider why many people actually want their pastors to preach law and about the “foolishness” of the gospel.
Resources:
Justin's sermons in Romans
While on the west coast, Jon and Justin were invited by Chris Gordon (host of Abounding Grace Radio and pastor of Escondido United Reformed Church) to do some recording. This episode is the second portion of that conversation. The guys discuss the Great Commission. What is it? Is it a call to Christianize the nations? Or is it the preaching of Jesus Christ for the justification of sinners? (Hint: It’s the latter.)
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about theonomy--how it confuses the law and obscures the gospel.
"God will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life...glory and honor and peace for everyone who does good, the Jew first and also the Greek" (Romans 2:6-7, 10). Is Paul writing that our works are a piece of our righteousness before God? Is he arguing that our works factor into our salvation? Jon and Justin consider the law, the gospel, and the argument of Paul from the early chapters of Romans in today's episode.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more pointedly about modern commentators and theologians who confuse Romans 2, as well as the dangers and fallout of this confusion.
Resources:
Justin's sermons in Romans
Category Resource Page: Law/Gospel Distinction
While on the west coast, Jon and Justin were invited by Chris Gordon (host of Abounding Grace Radio and pastor of Escondido United Reformed Church) to do some recording. This episode is the first portion of that conversation. The guys discuss differences between the preaching of Christ and the preaching of self-improvement, problems with an over-emphasis on application in preaching, as well as the most important thing to look for in a church.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin give a recap of their recent trip to California, which included recording content with The Babylon Bee, The Pactum, NoCo Radio, The Heidelcast, and Abounding Grace Radio.
Abounding Grace Radio
"What's wrong with the church in America?" That's a question many people are asking today. Underneath that question are a number of other questions: What is the mission of the church? What is the purpose of the Christian life? Is the church called to transform society? Is Christianity meant by God to dominate a culture? Or is it a counter-culture this side of Christ's second coming? Jon and Justin consider these things as they discuss how the American church has bought into a theology of glory.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about what they are most concerned for as pastors and what they see as primary concerns in the church. Justin also talks about a Christmas program he recently attended.
Resources:
Our episode on Theology of the Cross
Our episode on Two Kingdoms (w/ David VanDrunen)
Our episode on Mission Critical
Our episodes on the Tactics of the Accuser
The Babylon Bee sits down with Jonathan Moffitt and Justin Perdue from Theocast to talk about pietism and revivalism being the soil American Evangelicalism grew out of and how that might be messing with the assurance of the Gospel. They also hit topics like reading the Bible literally, the Law/Gospel distinction, and, just for fun, how to interpret the Book of Revelation. If that wasn’t enough for you, they also discuss non-controversial topics like whether or not the nation of Israel is God’s chosen people and why some Christians might object to watching The Chosen.
The Babylon Bee Podcast
In this special podcast, Jon and Justin are joined by fellow reformed podcasters, Mike Abendroth from No Compromise Radio, Pat Abendroth and Mike Grimes from The Pactum, and R. Scott Clark The Heidelcast!
Recorded live at Westminster Theological Seminary California, all the guys discuss Covenant Theology, Assurance, Law/Gospel Distinction, and Sola Fide!
Check out No Compromise Radio
Check out The Pactum
Check out The Heidelcast
Today's episode is the second of two on the tactics of the accuser, Satan, the ancient serpent who is the devil. Jon and Justin continue the conversation on spiritual warfare and the work of the evil one by considering how he tempts the saints. And then, the guys spend the bulk of the time discussing how Satan distracts us in the church--with things that are not inherently bad; in fact, often he distracts us with things that are good and even appear pious. The work of Satan to tempt and distract us deters us in our mission in the kingdom of Christ. We are called to be sober minded. The guys consider what that means.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about our calling as believers. We are to be soldiers of Christ who are not distracted by civilian pursuits. We are to look to Christ and set aside things that weigh us down and entangle us. Finally, the guys talk some more about sober mindedness and glorifying God.
Today's episode is the first of two on the tactics of the accuser, Satan, the ancient serpent who is the devil. Spiritual warfare is real, and as C. S. Lewis wrote, Christians tend to either hardly consider the devil's power or obsess over his power and activity. Neither of these perspectives are helpful or biblical. Jon and Justin consider this and then talk at length about perhaps the first of Satan's tactics against the saints: accusation. He seeks to rob us of the peace, rest, and hope that is ours in Christ. He seeks to cause us to question whether God is really our Father and whether Christ is really our savior.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about the reality of spiritual warfare, the accusations of Satan, the sufficiency of Christ, and how this relates to the mission of the kingdom of Christ.
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We at Theocast wanted to use this email to share the exciting news of how many people who have heard the gospel around the world this year. We are not doing this to boast, but to share with our supporters the impact they are having with their donations.
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On today's episode, Jon and Justin are again joined by Pat Abendroth, pastor of Omaha Bible Church and cohost of The Pactum. In the second of two conversations on the covenant of works, the guys consider the implications of the covenant works. Does it really matter if one affirms the covenant of works? What are the dangers of denying it? In particular, the guys focus on how an understanding of the covenant of works relates to our understanding of the work of Christ, the gospel, and assurance of salvation.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk with Pat Abendroth about the wreckage produced by a denial of a covenant of works/covenant of grace framework. We see this wreckage all around us in our day.
Resources:
Our teaching series on covenant theology
Our episodes on the implications of the covenant theology
Our episode "I Just Believe the Bible"
The Pactum Podcast
On today's episode, Jon and Justin are joined by Pat Abendroth, pastor of Omaha Bible Church and cohost of The Pactum. In the first of two conversations on the covenant of works, the guys answer the question, "Is the covenant of works really in the Bible?" The guys seek to make a case for the legitimacy of the covenant of works from the Scripture and begin to venture into the significance of affirming (or denying) it.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk personally with Pat Abendroth about his ministry and about his "journey" from dispensationalism to covenant theology.
Resources:
Our teaching series on covenant theology
Our episodes on the implications of the covenant theology
Our episode "I Just Believe the Bible"
The Pactum Podcast
"The Chosen" is a phenomenon in our day. Many people watch it. Many people are passionate about it. It is a polarizing show. Is it a good thing to watch "The Chosen"? Is it wrong to watch it? In today's episode, Jon and Justin aim to have a conversation that goes underneath the specific questions about "The Chosen" and gets to the real issues pertaining to the sufficiency of Scripture, how we are to worship God, the second commandment, and the quest for illegitimate religious experience.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more openly about the dangers of media like "The Chosen," as well as the potential value of so called "secular" media.
Recently, a video was released by One Passion Ministries in which Steve Lawson answered the question, "What doctrine is most missing in churches today?" His answer was the doctrine of regeneration. While that sounds good, where he went with it was concerning. In the video, Dr. Lawson said that justification by faith alone in Christ alone is, in a sense, just paperwork in heaven--and that it does nothing to change your life. What do we make of that? How should we respond? Jon and Justin have that conversation on today's episode.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue the conversation around Steve Lawson's comments about justification, the new birth, and the change of life. The guys also talk about reasons for recording an episode like this.
Resources:
Steve Lawson's video "What doctrine is most missing in churches today?"
Our episode on “The Resting Heart Rate of the Christian Life”
Justin’s sermon on Faith Alone, In Christ Alone
Many Christians in our day are convinced that they can grow in understanding and reach a better knowledge of the truth on their own. The perspective is, "I have the Bible. I have the Holy Spirit. I'm good to go." After all Jesus says the Holy Spirit will lead the disciples into all truth when he comes. That's true. But how does he do this? Jon and Justin examine the Scriptures--that the Holy Spirit inspired--to see how we are grown in our knowledge of the truth.
Semper Reformanda: Jon answers questions submitted by members in today's S|R episode.
Resources:
Our episode on "I Just Believe the Bible"
Our episode on "Authority Gone Wrong"
Our episode on "Is Your Theological System Any Good?"
Our episodes on Law/Gospel Distinction
Our episodes on Covenant Theology
"I'm just saying what the Bible says." "I just believe the Bible." "That's what the verse says." Have you ever heard people say these things while contending for a theological position that sounds off to you? This practice has a name. It's called biblicism. As Christians, we all want to be people of the Word. The question is whether we are handling the Word correctly. Many people through history have drawn false conclusions by "just reading the Bible" divorced from orthodox theological frameworks. Jon and Justin have a conversation about all of this in today's episode.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about the inherent inconsistency of biblicism, as well as the significance of theological debate through the history of the church.
Resources:
Our episode: “Is Your Theological System Any Good?”
Our Introduction to Covenant Theology Series
Justin’s sermon: “The Promised Gospel of God’s Son”
”Reexamining the Eternal Sonship of Christ” from John MacArthur
It is Reformation Week. And here at Theocast, in the tradition of the Reformation, we always seek to clarify the gospel. When we do, people respond in somewhat predictable ways. "Well, you do believe that Christians are required to obey, right?" "Obedience is required for salvation." Are these questions indicative of misunderstanding? How should we respond to these kinds of questions? Jon and Justin double down on union with Christ by faith in today's episode.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss the vitriol that often meets the clear proclamation of the gospel. The guys talk quite a bit about holiness and how many people's definitions of holiness are off-centered.
Resources:
Our episodes on 1 John
Our episodes on Lordship Salvation
Our episode on Easy-Listening Legalism
In today's episode, the second of two episodes on 1 John, the guys consider some specific passages from the letter that are often used to unsettle Christians and cause them to question their standing in Christ. 1 John 2:3 and surrounding, as well as 1 John 3:4-10, are discussed. How should we understand John's words on keeping the commandments and making a practice of sinning? Should these verses produce fear and doubt?
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin put a bow on the conversation about 1 John. The guys rejoice in the goodness of the letter and contrast that with how it is often taught.
Resources:
Justin's sermon series on 1 John
At Theocast, we get as many questions about 1 John as we do any book in the Bible. It is often a book that has been used to cause Christians to question whether they are really legitimate. But is that the reason John wrote the letter? In today's episode, the first of two episodes on 1 John, Jon and Justin give an overview of the letter and discuss the purpose for which the apostle wrote it.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about how far removed we are from the historical context of 1 John--and why that matters. The guys also reflect further upon the apostle's gentle, pastoral, and reassuring tone in the letter.
Resources:
Justin's sermon series on 1 John
Fallen human beings have always had issues with authority. And, in a fallen world, authority is often abused. All of this is true in our day--even in the church. In today's episode, Jon and Justin have a conversation about authority, how it can be used well, and how it can be abused. The guys give some particular time to discussing how not to abuse pastoral authority. That part might surprise you.
On today's podcast, Jon and Justin have Chad Bird on to discuss the ideology of having a personal relationship with Jesus. Where does this ideology and language come from? Is it helpful? Is it biblical? The guys consider these things and then move on to discuss the fact that the Christian life is inherently corporate and our Christian devotion is church-shaped. Why do we need the church? What is the point of the corporate gathering? (Hint: this has everything to do with our need for Jesus to minister to us and give us his gifts.)
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk in more depth with Chad Bird about a theology of the cross versus a theology of glory--and how these two ways of doing theology manifest themselves in our perspective on church.
Resources:
Our episode: "Your Sanctification is Not For You"
Our episode: "Have We Missed the Point of Church?"
40 Minutes In The Old Testament from 1517 Podcasts
Hidden Streams from 1517 Podcasts
About Chad Bird from 1517 Podcasts
Jon and Justin follow up on the conversation last week about smuggling works into faith. Today's episode is a little different than the norm. The guys critique teaching from John Piper, John MacArthur, and Doug Wilson on the relationship between faith and works. Multiple excerpts and quotes are cited, all of which are available in the show notes. The reason for this episode is to defend the clarity of the gospel--that we are saved by Christ alone and receive his merits by faith alone, apart from any works we could ever do.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about the legitimacy of critiquing doctrine that has been publicly taught and distributed. And then, the guys make a number of observations about the ways social and political concerns seem to be the tie that binds in many conservative Christian streams.
Resources:
Our episodes on the Law/Gospel Distinction
Our episode on "Smuggling Works into Faith"
Full Show Notes Page
Jon and Justin are joined by Mike Abendroth, pastor of Bethlehem Bible Church and host of No Compromise Radio. The guys have a conversation about faith--and, in particular, how works are often smuggled into faith in the evangelical church. How do we appropriately define saving faith? How do we understand the relationship between faith and works? Why is it that obedience, love, and good works are regularly woven into the definition of faith?
Semper Reformanda: Jon, Justin, and Mike talk more pointedly about Federal Vision, Lordship Salvation, final justification, and biblicism. What do all of these have in common? They all, in various ways, smuggle works into faith.
Resources:
No Compromise Radio Hosts
What is the Law?
Our episode: “Intro to Law and Gospel Distinction”
Our episode: “Why I Left Lordship Salvation”
Mike Abendroth’s Article: “My Pilgrimage from ‘Lordship’ to Law/Gospel”
Our episode: “Do John Piper and Doug Wilson Obscure Faith Alone?”
Mike Abendroth’s Book: “Gospel Assurance”
Our episode: “A Critique of Lordship Salvation - Part 2”
Mike Abendroth’s “Law & Gospel” Series on American Gospel
We all tend to buy into the world's definition of love. We view love as transactional. And, if we're honest, love is really about our self-gratification. This understanding of love robs us of true joy in our relationships and it robs us of peace before God. The love of God for us is unconditional, sacrificial, and steadfast. We know what love is by looking to God's love for us. And we love because he first loved us. If we understand these things better, our relationships with one another in the church and in our homes will profit. Jon and Justin talk about these things in today's episode.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue the conversation on love by talking about the necessity of the means of grace in the church. That's right. If you're wondering how these things are connected, give the episode a listen.
Resources:
Jon's Sermon on Relationships, Dating, and God’s Love
In a fallen world, we sin against others--and we will be sinned against. Sometimes, we are sinned against in ways that are indescribably painful. In today's episode, Jon and Justin talk about forgiveness. It can be hard to forgive those who wrong us. And, yet, the teaching of the Scripture is clear. We are to forgive those who sin against us, as God in Christ has forgiven us. The guys have a compassionate and pastoral conversation about these matters.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about forgiveness, the clarity of the Scripture on the matter, and how this is obscured in our day. The guys finish with thoughts about how forgiveness cannot be based upon our assessment of the quality of another person's repentance.
Resources:
Our episode on "Repenting of Our Repentance"
Ask Theocast on "What if I'm struggling to forgive? Can I still have assurance?"
In today's episode, the guys have a conversation about a very sensitive but important topic: sexuality. Over recent years and decades, there have been various approaches to how to handle issues of sexuality in the church. Jon and Justin talk honestly about their concerns regarding crass and crude language that is used to talk about sex--and the abuses of pastoral authority that often occur (e.g., Doug Wilson and Mark Driscoll). The guys also discuss their concerns with purity culture (Joshua Harris comes up here) and the very negative ways sex is portrayed in that kind of setting. There is a better and more biblical approach.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk more about abuses of pastoral authority that occur in the church when it comes to sex in marriage. Then, the guys talk about how we often try to use outside means to address a heart-level problem.
Resources:
Sexuality, Acceptance, and the Gospel
Jon and Justin recently had the opportunity to be guests on the Guilt Grace Gratitude podcast. In this episode, two Baptists and two Presbyterians talk about confessionalism and the local church. The conversation is wide-ranging, including: confessions of faith, the objective work of Christ and his sufficiency, the law and the gospel, the ordinary means of grace, the mission of the church and the point of the Lord's Day gathering, the sacraments, the effects of revivalism and pietism, and much more.
Resources:
Guilt Grace Gratitude Podcast
Our episode on Confessionalism
What is Reformed Theology?
In this short update, Jon and Justin announce Everyday Grace! A new daily short form podcast that features the pastoral work of the hosts as well as highlights from previous episodes of Theocast to help encourage listeners in Christ every day!
The guys continue the series on the means of grace by discussing preaching. What has happened to the preaching of the word of Christ? Jon and Justin begin by distinguishing preaching from teaching. Then, they consider the preaching event. It is an event. (Live streams and sermon audio is not preaching.) The guys conclude with a lengthy discussion on the content of preaching. Preaching is to extol and herald the person and work of Christ in the place of sinners, and preaching requires the right dividing of law and gospel.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about some of the critiques that are raised against Christ-centered, redemptive-historical preaching, along with the false dichotomy introduced between grammatical-historical and redemptive-historical approaches to exegesis. (Warning: It's a passionate discussion.)
Resources:
Our episode on "Introduction to Law/Gospel Distinction"
Our series on Covenant Theology
Our episode on "Is Your Theological System Any Good?"
Our episode on "Legal Preaching"
Our episode on "Christ-Centered Preaching"
The sacrament of communion was given to us by God as a means of His grace. In the Lord's Supper, Jesus is really and spiritually present to minister to us. We are confirmed in the faith and in all the benefits of Christ's death. We are nourished, sustained, and strengthened through receiving the bread and the cup. In other words, the Table is for our assurance and for our growth in the faith. Sadly, this is not how communion is typically talked about in the church. What happened? Why is it not talked about this way? In today's episode Jon and Justin have a theological, historical, and biblical conversation about communion as a means of grace.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin discuss Reformed worship--and communion as a part of that. In addition, the guys give some thoughts regarding churches that do not observe communion regularly.
Resources:
Our episode on "What Happened to Baptism?"
Our episode on "The Resting Heart Rate of the Christian Life"
Ask Theocast on "What Are the Means of Grace?"
1689 LBC 30.1
"Truth We Can Touch" by Tim Chester
Barcellos's book on the Lord's Supper
The sacrament of baptism was given to us by God as a means of His grace. Baptism is about our union with Christ. It is a sign of being grafted into him in his life, death, and resurrection. It is a sign of the remission of our sins. It is a sign of God's promise to keep us unto salvation. Sadly, this is not how baptism is typically talked about in the church. What happened? Why is it not talked about this way? In today's episode Jon and Justin have a theological, historical, and biblical conversation about baptism as a means of grace.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue to discuss baptism as a sign of our union with Christ. In particular, the guys consider how pietism, revivalism, and Arminianism have affected how many have understood union with Christ--and thereby, baptism.
Resources:
Our episodes on Lordship Salvation
Our episode "The Resting Heart Rate of the Christian Life"
Our episode on "Leaving Pietism"
In today's episode, the guys talk about God's will. Many Christians agonize over the will of God for their lives. Is there a secret will of God that we are called to discern? Can we make decisions that put us outside the will of God? Has God spoken to what His will is for our lives? Jon and Justin consider these things and more.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue the conversation on the will of God. What do we say to people who fear they have ruined their lives through a past sin?
Resources:
Our episode on "Mercy for Those Who Doubt"
Our episode "What is Biblicism? Why Is It dangerous?"
Our episode on "Leaving Pietism"
The title for today's episode comes from a 20th century hymn. That hymn is illustrative of the common mindset in the evangelical church--that the real stuff of the Christian life happens when we are alone. Is that what the New Testament teaches? How is it that we grow in the faith? How is it that we become mature in Christ? Jon and Justin consider these questions and discuss how the Christian life is inherently corporate, how devotion is church-shaped, and how the corporate realities of the gathered church drive our private lives.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin give some of their perspective on personal time of Bible reading and prayer. What are healthier ways to approach these things? How does the corporate life of the church help us devotional lives?
Resources:
Our episode on "How Not to Read Your Bible"
Our episode "Have We Missed the Point of Church?"
Our episode on "Leaving Pietism"
Our episode on "Your Sanctification Is Not for You?"
Our "Dazed and Confused" episode on Hebrews 12:1-14
This is the second of at least two episodes from James 5. In James 5:16, the apostle writes that the prayer of a righteous person is effective. This raises the question: is righteousness required for prayer? If so, what kind of righteousness is James talking about? He gives the example of Elijah and how effective his prayers were. How are we to understand that? Jon and Justin discuss all of this--and more in today's podcast.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk about positional and personal righteousness. And, the guys go in on pietism and revivalism, in particular, as to how these things have resulted in confusion and have hindered us in approaching God.
Resources:
Our episode on "Do John Piper and Doug Wilson Obscure Faith Alone?"
Our episode "Self + Righteousness = Rubbish (Are You Struggling With It?)"
Our episode on "Why the Gospel Terrifies Christians"
Our episodes on Lordship Salvation
Jon's two sermons on Faith and Healing
This is the first of at least two episodes from James 5. In James 5:14, the apostle writes that if a person is sick he should have the elders of the church anoint him and pray for him. Then he says that the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. How are we to understand this? What kind of healing is in view? What is the prayer of faith? Jon and Justin consider these questions and more.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk in more depth about interpreting the Bible. They consider tools that help us interpret the Bible, as well as how we should approach debated passages.
Resources:
Our episode on James 2
Our episode "Dying with Dignity"
Our episode on "There Will Be Weakness"
Jon's two sermons on Faith and Healing
In the church, we can struggle to rightly understand and apply the grace of God in Christ. We know we need grace on the front end of salvation, but then, once in, we flip to an economy of merit. And now, we're just collecting stars and earning cookies. It is as though we think that through our working we can retroactively vindicate God's saving of us and turn ourselves into the kind of people God would've been happy to save in the first place. In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about how the Christian life is a project of self-validation for many.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue to consider how a lot of teaching today communicates that the Christian life is a project of validating ourselves as legitimate. The guys talk about the effects of unhealthy introspection, as well as better motivations for Christian living.
Resources:
Our episode on James 2 "Faith Without Works Is Dead"
Our episode on "How Pietism Ruins Good Works"
Our episode on "Leaving Pietism"
In this third of three episodes on God's law, Jon and Justin talk about the threefold division of the law. This conversation is important for anyone who has ever wondered what to make of all the laws God gave to Israel in the Old Testament. What is binding for us today? What is not? What do some of these obscure sounding commands have to do with us in the new covenant era? In short, the confessional, Reformed understanding of the threefold division of the moral, ceremonial, and judicial law is very helpful for our understanding.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider the fourth commandment in depth regarding the Sabbath day. There is some division of opinion--even amongst Reformed types--as to what observance of the Lord's Day should look like. The distinction between the moral and ceremonial law is a factor, as is one's understanding of covenant theology.
Resources:
Our first episode in this series on Law & Gospel Distinction
Our second episode in this series on The Three Uses of the Law
Our first episode in a series on Covenant Theology
Our first of three episodes on Implications of Covenant Theology
In this second of three episodes on God's law, Jon and Justin talk about the three uses of the law. In considering the three uses of the law, we are essentially answering the question, "Why did God give the law?" The first use of the law is to show us our sin and drive us to Christ. The second use is to teach all men right and wrong--and to restrain our corruption. The third use is to serve as the guide for our living in Christ. Without these uses in view, we are prone to make all kinds of errors in our application and understanding of God's law.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider how the uses of the law are often collapsed in our day and the resulting fallout of this confusion. In contending for the uses of the law, we are simply seeking to use the law lawfully (1 Timothy 1:8).
Resources:
First episode in this series: "Intro to Law and Gospel Distinction"
Our episode on "What Must I Do to Be Saved?"
Our episode on "John Piper on Holiness"
Our episode on "Following Jesus Is Not the Gospel"
Our episode on "Faith Without Works is Dead: James 2"
In this first of three episodes on God's law, Jon and Justin talk about the distinction between the law and the gospel. The law and the gospel are both contained in the Old and New Testaments, respectively. The law and the gospel are distinct and ought not be mixed--and, yet, they are complementary in God's economy of salvation. The guys introduce the listener to this historically Reformed doctrine and consider why it is so important.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin consider how covenant theology and law/gospel distinction complement one another in a Reformed theological framework. The guys talk about how useful these tools are for rightly understanding the Scriptures.
Resources:
Our episode on "What Must I Do to Be Saved?"
Our episode on "Are You a Legalist or an Antinomian?"
Our episode on "The Law, the Gospel, and Sanctification"
Often in the church, we try to figure out exactly what God is doing when we are going through difficult things. Simply put, we shouldn't do that. The secret things belong to the Lord, and we are not privy to the counsel of God when it comes to our suffering. In today's episode, Jon and Justin aim to point out things that God has clearly revealed and promised to us in his Word. We do have an unshakable hope in the Lord Jesus Christ, and this is what we cling to--in the midst of joy or pain.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue the conversation on suffering by considering less-than-good ways suffering is talked about and dealt with in the church. We have a gentle, patient, and merciful Savior. This should inform how we interact with one another in the midst of pain.
Resources:
Our episode on "There Will Be Weakness"
Our episode on Two Kingdoms
Our episode on "The Quest for Religious Experience"
In today's episode, Jon and Justin aim to have a pastoral conversation with two groups of people in view. First, those who are beat down and weary, who are seeking to find rest. And second, those who have found rest in Christ but still wrestle with what that rest means for their Christian lives. Where does the power for sanctification come from? What do we do now that we know Christ has done everything for our salvation?
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin have a fun conversation about Jesus, calming down, assessing ourselves honestly, looking to God's Word, and loving our brothers and sisters. Resources:
Our episode on "How Pietism Ruins Good Works" https://youtu.be/19OhlchARt0
Our episode on "Your Sanctification Is Not for You?" https://youtu.be/nfDuTYz3pnA
Our episode on "Have We Missed the Point of Church?" https://youtu.be/JLHz0Cgga4s
Our episode on "What Is--and Is Not--the Gospel" https://youtu.be/NmrZA951WYU
In this episode, Jon and Justin discuss a message recently given by John Piper on Christ's death and the holiness of the believer. The guys interact with clips from the message and seek to consider it from a biblical, confessional, and Reformed perspective. At Theocast, we are in complete agreement that Christ's work has secured the holiness of the saints. Significant things to consider along these lines are: union with Christ; the active obedience of Christ; the relationship of justification and sanctification; and the proper way to preach the law and the gospel.
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin continue the conversation on the holiness of believers. The guys consider better--and more biblical--ways to pursue and instill holiness in the church.
Resources:
Our episode on Hebrews 12 https://theocast.org/dazed-and-confused-hebrews-121-14-and-holiness/
Our episode on "Your Sanctification Is Not for You" https://theocast.org/your-sanctification-is-not-for-you/
Our episode on "Piper and Wilson Obscuring the Gospel" https://theocast.org/do-john-piper-and-doug-wilson-obscure-faith-alone/
Following Jesus is not the gospel. There are a number of things that are fruits of regeneration and fruits of the gospel that are not the gospel. Biblically speaking, the gospel has nothing to do with us whatsoever. The gospel is completely about the person and work of Jesus Christ, our substitute and mediator. Jon and Justin talk about the fruit of the gospel, the order of salvation, and justification from a confessional, reformed perspective.
Semper Reformanda: The guys talk about the legitimacy of using confessions and of critiquing the doctrine of notable figures. Then, they go into more depth on some of the ways justification is under assault in our day.
Resources:
Our episode on "What must I do to be saved?"
Our episode on Take up your cross
Our episode on biblicism
Our episode on how pietism ruins good works
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 triumphalism
Our episode on Two Kingdoms
Our 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 Distinction
Our episode on Why the Gospel Terrifies Christians
Jon and Justin have a discussion on views of eschatology and how it has affected modern biblical interpretation. Do historical Dispensational views contradict the clear teaching of Scripture on the atoning work of Christ? Is one's view on eschatology a measure of orthodoxy? Should our views of eschatology drive the rest of our theology, or is it the other way around?
Semper Reformanda: Jon and Justin talk in more depth about eschatology and hermeneutics. What should guide us in formulating our views on eschatology?
Resources:
Our episode on "Is Your Theological System Any Good?"
"A Case for Amillennialism" by Kim Riddlebarger
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 Vision
R. Scott Clark on Federal Vision
Our episode on final justification (live from CA)
Our episode on how 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 Vision
R. Scott Clark on Federal Vision
Our 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 Salvation
A Critique of Lordship SalvationWhy I left Lordship Salvation
Our episodes on Calvinism
Our 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 experience
Our episode on leaving pietism
Our 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 theology
Our episode on law/gospel
Our episode on theology of the cross
Our 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 James
Our episode on pietism ruining good works
Our episode on the law, gospel, and sanctification
Our 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 sanctification
Our episode on why the gospel terrifies Christians
Our 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: Rest
What is Peitism?
Leaving pietism
Our episode on spiritual disciplines
Series 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 You
Our episode: Law/Gospel Distinction
Our 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 Ebook
Our episodes on Lordship
Our episodes on pietism
Our 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 cross
Our episode on Two Kingdom doctrine
Our episode on the purpose of the church
Our 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 flesh
Our episode on law/gospel
Our episode on the dark side of Christianity
Our 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 sin
Our episode on the cravings of the flesh
Our episode on pietism
Our episode on biblicism
Our episode on law/gospel
Our 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 theology
Our episode on law/gospel
Our 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 Circus
Episode: 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 church
Episode on leaving pietism
Episode 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 theology
Our episode on Final Justification by Mark Jones
Jon'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/primer
Our series on covenant theology
Sacred 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/primer
Redemptive 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
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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/gospel
Our episode on assurance
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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
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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/gospel
Our episode on "When the Faithful Falter"
Our episode on Assurance
Our 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 2:13-17
Mark 2:23-27
Luke 6:6-11
Luke 13:1-5
Mark 7:1-23
Luke 18:18-27
Luke 15
Matthew 9:12-13
Matthew 11:28-30
Matthew 12:18-21
John 10:14-18
John 14:1-3
John 17:24
Luke 12:32
Luke 7:36-50
Romans 8:15
1 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 12:10-20
John 20:19-23
Resources:
Justin's sermon: Faith, Fear, and God’s Faithfulness | Genesis 12:10-14:24
Jon'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, 10:11-14
1 John 2:1-2
Romans 8:9-11, 31-34
1 Peter 3:22
Revelation 21:3-5
John 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
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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 Antinomian
FREE EBOOK: Safe in Christ - A primer on rest
Giveaway: "Christ the Lord" by Michael Horton
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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
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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 15:1-4
Galatians 6:1-2
1 Thessalonians 5:14
Ephesians 4:1-3
Hebrews 3:15
John 13:34
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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 series
Book: "Living in God's Two Kingdoms" by David VanDrunnen
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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
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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 you
Episode: Take up your cross?
1689 LBC, Chapters 13 and 18
Giveaway: "A Place for Weakness" by Michael Horton
FREE Ebook: theocast.org/primer
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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 Horton
1689 LBC, Chapters 14 and 15
FREE Ebook: theocast.org/primer
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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 11:3
Romans 7:15ff
Galatians 5:17
Ephesians 4:27, 6:12ff
James 1:13-15, 4:7
1 Peter 5:8
1 John 1:8-2:2, 3:8
Resources:
Our primer on assurance
Our 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
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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 19:31
Philippians 3:1-11
Luke 18:9-14
Matthew 7:1-5
Romans 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, 2:4-7
Romans 5:1-11
Hebrews 10:1-14, 12:1-2
Genesis 1-3
Giveaway: "Christianity and Liberalism" by J. Gresham Machen
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"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 Horton
Is the Woke Church Movement a False Gospel? | ask Theocast
FREE Ebook: Theocast.org/primer
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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
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Many people struggle with the church. We go and it feels plastic. Inauthentic. Or it seems like the church is full of people who understand themselves to be crushing it. And so, it doesn't seem there is a place for the weak or miserable sinner. As a result, many people are disenchanted with the church. Where did all this come from? Is there something better?
Semper Reformanda Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about the corporate nature of everything in the life of the church. We survey Ephesians 4 and consider the language of the Scripture and the ordinary means of grace.
Resources:
- Our podcast on Triumphalism
- Our podcast on Theology of the Cross
- "Ordinary" by Michael Horton
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What is the posture of Jesus toward those who trust him? In Matthew 11, Jesus invites the weary to come to him that they might find rest. He says he is gentle and lowly in heart. Is that how you have heard Jesus presented? Or have you been told that he is harsh, exacting, and probably disappointed in you?
Members' Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about the patience, mercy, and gentleness of Christ--and how much we all need to be reminded of that. The guys also discuss self-righteousness and confusion of law and gospel in the pulpit.
Scripture References:
Isaiah 42:3; 61:1
Matthew 11:25-30
Luke 7:36-50; 15:1-35; 18:9-14
2 Corinthians 10:1
Ephesians 4:1-4; 5:1-2
Hebrews 7:25
1 John 2:1-2
Resources:
"The Bruised Reed" by Richard Sibbes
"Gentle and Lowly" by Dane Ortlund
"I never knew you; depart from me," are words in Matthew 7 many of us fear we will hear from Jesus. Should we live in fear that we will finally be rejected by Christ for not doing enough? Was that his intention? Or did he mean something else?
Members' Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about the importance of law/gospel distinction in the Sermon the Mount, as well as how to love and care for those with a tender conscience.
Book give away: "Safe in Christ: A Primer on Assurance"
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Are you a legalist or an antinomian? Most people would claim they are neither. But many Christians don't know what to do with God's law. Jon and Justin talk about the law and the gospel--and how it is Paul could say he delighted in God's law.
Members' Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about why it is that so many people leave legalism and head into antinomianism. They also give counsel to those leaving legalism and are wanting to help others do the same.
"Take up your cross and follow me." What did Jesus mean when he said that? Is he calling us to hate our wives, kids, and parents? Is he calling us to be willing to suffer anything if we are going to be his followers? Is he laying down a test of radical discipleship? Or is he calling us to something else?
Members' Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about the heart behind Theocast, as well as some theological categories that will help us understand the Bible.
Links:
Episode on Law/Gospel: https://theocast.org/law-gospel-distinction/
Episode on Triumphalism:https://theocast.org/triumphalism/
Episode Saint/Sinner: https://theocast.org/are-we-both-saint-and-sinner/
Faith vs Faithfulness: Theocast.org/primer
People like to talk about the "demands of the gospel." But does the gospel make demands of us? Must we forsake sin in order to come to Christ? Do we need to make Jesus Lord of our lives?
Members' Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about obedience and the uses of the law. What is the first use of the law? What is the third use? Are there ways these are often confused?
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Many of us have spent our Christian lives chasing after experiences. We live in pursuit of spiritual highs and that "first-time feeling." There is something different and better. Jon and Justin talk about what that is.
Members Podcast: The guys talk about pietistic, emotionally-based preaching, as well as the armor of God and the Lord's Table.
Our Free eBook: Theocast.org/Primer
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What is Christian liberty? Is it about more than alcohol, dancing, and music? What is the weaker brother? What is it that governs the exercise of our freedoms? Jon and Justin consider these questions.
Members Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about how to go about setting people free who have been in a heavy-handed church context.
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What is the purpose of your sanctification? Who is it for? (Hint: It's not for you.) We survey a number of passages from the New Testament to demonstrate the point of our growth in Christ.
Members' Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about how freeing it is to realize your sanctification isn't for you.
Recommended Resources:
Dazed and Confused: Hebrews 12:1-14 and Holiness
Where does all bad theology come from? From our perspective, it comes from a loss of the church's one foundation--that is, Jesus Christ and his work counted to us by faith alone.
Members Podcast: Jon and Justin deal with common objections to "faith alone" and "Christ alone."
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Should you regularly be questioning your salvation? What about self-examination? When and how should you do that? The guys answer these questions and consider several passages of Scripture that speak to these issues.
Members' Podcast: The guys pointedly answer the question posed by John Piper's article, "How often should you question your salvation?"
Link to Article
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There are a number of things discussed in the church as though they are part of the gospel--things like faith, repentance, obedience, and surrendering all to Jesus. But are these things the gospel? The guys have that conversation.
Members' Podcast: The guys have a pastoral conversation about how the gospel isn't about us at all.
Recommended Resources:
"Faith vs Faithfulness: A Primer on Rest"
"Safe in Christ: A Primer on Assurance"
Episode: Law/Gospel
Episode: Assurance
"The Whole Christ" by Sinclair Ferguson
Jon and Justin discuss an article entitled, “4 Ways Bad Biblical Theology Warps Sermons.” Is Christ-centered, redemptive-historical preaching dangerous? Is it unhelpful? Does it produce bad things in the church? The guys talk about this—and more.
Members' Podcast: Jon and Justin talk about the concerns that might be underneath an article like the one discussed in today's episode.
At Theocast, we talk a lot about pietism. What is it? What is the difference in piety and pietism? How does pietism affect us? Is there something better? If you find yourself struggling in the Christian life, is there something wrong with you? The guys answer these questions and more.
Members Podcast Description: The guys give advice to those who are stuck in a pietistic context.
2020 has been a difficult year. (Understatement.) Jon and Justin reflect on what they have learned, as well as the faithfulness of God.
Members Podcast: The guys continue reflecting on 2020 and the faithfulness of God.
Read Episode Transcripts
We had the joy of recording with Chad Bird, Daniel Emery Price, and Erick Sorensen of the 1517.org ministry for a special Christmas podcast. Why is the incarnation of Jesus important? How does it bring us hope, joy, and peace? We hope this conversation is uplifting and encouraging.
Many listeners are tracking with us that Christ is enough--that he has completely saved us. Many have come to see that pietism is unhelpful. But, now, you're wondering: What do I do now? If that's you, this podcast is for you.
The post Christ Is Enough…Now What? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Spiritual disciplines are a big deal in our modern church context. Where did they come from? Are they biblical? How is it that we are sustained and grown in the Christian life? Jon and Justin consider all these things.
The post Are Spiritual Disciplines Biblical? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Sin is far worse than we often think. The Bible teaches that we are all born with lusts, cravings, passions, and desires that are wrong. Jon and Justin talk about this robust understanding of sin and its implications.
The post The Cravings of the Flesh appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
There is a difference between unrepentant sin and struggling as a fallen person in a fallen world. How should we understand our own struggle and the struggle of other believers? And what does this mean for life together in the church?
The post The Difference Between Sin and Struggle appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Jon and Jimmy discuss where should we draw lines of theological disagreements. How should Christians disagree over important doctrines? How has the church lost its mission in these theological debates?
The post Agree to Disagree appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
This is part 4 from our Introduction to Covenant Theology. In this class, this is our first of two sessions discussing the Covenant of Grace. In this session, we talk about the nature of the Covenant of Grace. Then we turn our focus on the promises and progressive revelation of the Covenant of Grace and trace them through the Old Testament, from Genesis to Malachi.
The post The Covenant of Grace in the Old Testament appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
If you listen to many in the church, our Christian lives should be characterized by happiness, excitement, and by overcoming difficulty. But, this life is often characterized by pain, toil, and suffering. What do we do with that? And what is it that we're called to in the church?
The post Fantasy Christianity appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
These are tumultuous times in the United States. Politics are dominating much of the public conversation. And evangelical leaders have made strong statements as to how Christians should--or must--vote. Jon and Justin discuss these things and provide a historical biblical perspective.
The post HOT TOPIC: Is There Only One Way a Christians Can Vote? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Though we would never say it this way, it often seems that the gospel is just the starting point of the Christian life--and that once we believe, we need to move on to other things. Jon and Justin consider how this happens and what it means for people in the church.
The post Left Behind: Have We Moved On from the Gospel? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Why is it that Jesus died on a cross--and not some other way? Does it matter? (Hint: It does.) Jon and Justin answer this question using all of Scripture from a redemptive-historical, covenantal perspective.
The post Did It Matter How Jesus Died? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Some people say we should read the Bible with no presuppositions--and that it isn't good to have a theological system. Is that possible? Is that right? Jon and Justin consider these things and how we should do biblical theology.
The post Is Your Theological System Any Good? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Jon and Justin answer a question that we get all the time: "When you say 'reformed' theology, what do you mean?" We offer our own "five points" on the subject.
The post The “Five Points” of Reformed Theology appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Jon and Justin have a conversation about our weakness, sex, and the gospel. (Parents: There is nothing graphic, but please be aware.) Our culture tells us all kinds of things about sex. The church hasn't always helped. What has God said in his Word?
The post Our Weakness, Sex, and the Gospel appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Are you discouraged about reading your Bible? Maybe you feel like you don't understand it? Maybe you read it and feel like you've gotten nothing from it? In this episode, the guys talk about how not to read your Bible--and then consider what Scripture says about how to interact with it.
The post How Not to Read Your Bible appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
On today's episode, we are able and blessed to sit around the same table to discuss and meet with our old friend pietism. The other night, we were discussing how pietism dies a very slow and painful death. We also talked about the damage it can cause to our assurance and what we see when we look at ourselves in Christ. In this podcast, we discuss the slow and painful death of pietism and how it can harm us.
The post The Slow Death of Pietism appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Life is hard. Relationships are hard. In light of that, what is it that we need most? There are countless solutions offered. Jon and Justin consider what Scripture has to say.
The post What the World Needs Now appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Jimmy discuss the topic of Vocation. Does the Bible lead us to believe that some jobs are more spiritual than others? Is the pastor's job more important than the stay home mom? We also explain how God is accomplishing His mission through the ordinary every day lives of those in the church.
The post Does Your Job Matter to God??? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin answer a listener question. Should we be afraid of the judgment seat of Christ? Should we fear that all of our good works will be burned up? We survey the passages in the New Testament that speak to these things.
The post Fearing the Judgment Seat appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about all of the requirements being placed upon Christians as a result of the current cultural issues. It seems we are failing all over the place, and forgiveness and absolution are nowhere to be found. What do we make of these things?
The post You’re a Bad Christian If… appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about the difference between Calvinism and reformed theology. The two are not one and the same. We explain the major tenets of reformed theology and why they are important.
The post Why All Calvinists Are Not Reformed appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
When should you leave a church? Jon and Jimmy discuss this question from a pastoral and congregant perspective. We discuss unhelpful ways we have seen this done, what you should not say, and the timing one should consider.
The post Should I Stay Or Should I Go? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about evangelicalism. Where did it come from? What produced it? What kind of effect has evangelical culture had on Christians? If you feel as though you're drowning--if you are struggling and disenchanted--you are not crazy. And you are not alone.
The post Drowning in Evangelicalism? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about a passage of Scripture that is often misunderstood: 2 Peter 1:1-12. Is Peter teaching pietism in this text? We consider the gospel, as well as the saint/sinner reality, and how those things relate to our pursuit of piety.
The post Dazed and Confused: Does 2 Peter 1:1-12 Teach Pietism? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin begin by answering a listener's question as to whether Roman Catholics can be saved. We then contrast Roman Catholic and Reformed theology and go on to consider the ways many evangelicals sound Roman in their teaching and practice.
The post Back to Rome? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd and the protests of recent days, the guys talk about racism, injustice, and the church. There are many people in a lot of pain. What can we say to these things from God's Word? How can the church navigate these difficult issues?
The post Racism, Injustice, and the Church appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about biblical counseling and the problem of pietism and hyper-introspection. We consider a confessional, Christ-centered approach to counseling that is grounded in the local church.
The post Biblical Counseling: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about triumphalism. The impression we're often given in the church is that we should be always and consistently improving. We should be living "the victorious Christian life." And, if we're not, we should be concerned. What do we make of all this?
The post Triumphalism appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
n this episode, the guys talk about depression. It is a common battle. And it is understandable in a fallen world. We consider what depression is, where it comes from, and how we should recalibrate our thinking and conversation in the church.
The post Depression appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys consider the distinction between the law and the gospel. God has revealed the law and the gospel in Scripture. They aren't the same thing, but yet, they are often confused. This confusion results in all kinds of fallout, including robbing the believer of assurance and peace.
The post Law/Gospel Distinction appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
"Christ-centered preaching" has been a popular topic for a number of years. But what is it? What does it mean to preach Christ from all of Scripture? If we preach this way, are we just saying the same thing every Sunday? The guys consider all of this--and more--in today's episode.
The post Christ-Centered Preaching appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
So many of the questions we get at Theocast come down to the issue of assurance. How do we know we will be finally saved? How is it that we have peace before God- now and in the future? We talk personally of our own experiences, make some observations about evangelicalism, and then point people to Christ and his sufficiency.
The post Assurance appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In light of COVID-19, the hosts thought it would be a good thing to do a live online Q&A. Amongst other things, we talk about confessional theology, justification and sanctification, and church discipline.
The post Q&A: Confessional Theology, Justification & Sanctification, and Church Discipline appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin discuss legal preaching. This kind of preaching tends to remove hope and establish fear. It tends to turn every passage of Scripture into law. It tends to focus on how people are not measuring up. We point out the prevalence of legal preaching and offer some correctives.
The post Legal Preaching appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin discuss preaching [about] the gospel. It's been our observation that guys will get fired up about preaching the gospel, they will give the facts of the gospel, and talk a lot about the gospel--without ever offering Jesus to sinners and heralding the grace of God in Christ.
The post Preaching [About] the Gospel appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
We are all being tremendously affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In light of this, the guys have a conversation about trials, suffering, and the steadfast love of God.
The post Joy in Suffering: A Conversation in Light of COVID-19 appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about Proverbs. It's one of the most-read books in the Bible, but honestly, many of us don't know what to do with it. Is Jesus in Proverbs? How do we understand and apply the book?
The post Proverbs: Where Is Jesus? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin tackle the question, "How much--and for how long--can a Christian sin?" Scripture and the Confessions indicate that Christians can sin really badly for a really long time.
The post How Much Can a Christian Sin? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about feelings. Yes, that's right. At a prominent evangelical conference, John Piper said that it is futile to try to define saving faith apart from feelings (link). We consider whether that is correct and the fallout of that perspective as it relates to assurance.
The post More Than a Feeling? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about ambition. Biblically, ambition is sin and is opposed to the gospel. We consider how we are to live before God and with one another.
The post Is Ambition Sin? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about sola fide (faith alone). It is a radical message. We seek to briefly clarify the doctrine before moving on to discuss the implications of it and the importance of guarding it.
The post “Faith Alone” Is Radical appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about loving one another. It was a big deal to Jesus and the apostles. But if you were to ask Christians to make a list of priorities in the Christian life, where would love show up on that list?
The post What’s Love Got to Do with It? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, the guys talk about discipleship. We often hear the word "disciple" used as a verb. Is that how it's used in the New Testament? Is there a distinction between being a Christian and a disciple? We consider these things along with the corporate nature of being a disciple of Jesus.
The post Discipleship Is Not About You appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Jesus prays for our protection and our mission in John 17. What kind of protection does he pray for? And what kind of mission has he left for us? In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about our mission and Christ's desires for us as his church.
The post Mission Critical appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, we talk about all the little "l" laws we place ourselves under in the New Year's season. There are a 1,000 things we need to be doing--or not doing. We often fail to meet our own expectations. What do we do with all this?
The post The “Little laws” of New Year’s appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about some of the ways contemporary Christianity has made everything complicated. We also talk about the freeing simplicity of the biblical faith that is founded on Christ crucified for sinners.
The post Simple Christianity appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, we interview our friend, Daniel Emery Price about creedal Christianity. If you were to ask many in the church what Christians believe, you would get a number of different answers. Many of those wouldn't be good. We discuss what creedal Christianity is and the fallout of abandoning the creedal faith.
The post Interview with Daniel Emery Price: Creeds? What’s That? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Our third live event, from Berean Fellowship in Palmdale, CA. Jon and Justin talk about the Christian's simultaneous saint and sinner reality, antinomianism, and about how much fruit we need to be bearing in the Christian life.
The post Q&A: Saint & Sinner, Antinomianism, Bearing Fruit and More… appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In our second ever live event, Jon and Justin talk primarily about sola fide--some of the old and new confusion around it. How do good works factor into our final salvation? We begin to discuss an article written recently by Mark Jones in which he argues that we have the right to eternal life by faith alone but we will finally possess eternal life through good works.
The post Live Q&A on Final Justification & Mark Jones appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode we interview our friend, Chad Bird. We discuss his book, "Night Driving." We cover a number of topics, including the pain we experience in this life, repentance, forgiveness, the struggle against sin, and the love of God for sinners.
The post Interview with Chad Bird appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In our first-ever live Theocast event, we answer listener questions as well as those submitted by the audience. Topics include assurance of salvation, motivations for obedience, our need for the church, and more.
The post Live Q&A: Motivation for Obedience, Assurance, & the Holy Spirit appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
We sat down with Rod Rosenbladt to discuss a few things--including law/gospel distinction, the sufficiency of Christ's work, and theology of the cross. We also get his thoughts on future justification.
The post Law Gospel Distinction with Rod Rosenbladt appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about a verse of Scripture that has produced much angst and confusion: Hebrews 12:14. In that verse, we read that there is a holiness without which no one will see the Lord. How should we understand this passage?
The post Dazed and Confused: Hebrews 12:1-14 and Holiness appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, Jon and Justin talk about a passage of Scripture that is often misunderstood and misapplied: John 15. Jesus tells us if we abide in him, we will produce much fruit. What does it mean to abide in Jesus? What does Jesus mean by fruit?
The post Dazed and Confused: John 15 and Bearing Fruit appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, we talk about how obedience is a good thing--but that sadly, many have had the experience of being scolded toward it. We discuss how assurance and peace with God in Christ actually motivates us to pursue obedience.
The post BONUS EPISODE: Obedience Is Not a Dirty Word appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Want to know what Theocast is all about? Here’s a description of Theocast in the words of its hosts. We walk potential listeners through our purpose, our distinctions, our theological focus, and why you might consider tuning in. We hope you find this episode helpful.
The post What is Theocast? appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Maybe you've noticed that the grace of God in Christ is so often qualified? As soon as the gospel is heralded, immediately comes the "Yeah, but..." In this episode, we talk about the tendency to footnote grace and hedge on sola fide. Where does this come from, and why does it happen?
The post Footnoting Grace appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
Episode Description: In this episode, we discuss the reality of weariness. It's common. We consider how the church is supposed to be a haven for sinners, but sadly, the church has often only piled it on the weary Christian.
The post Spiritual Weariness appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, we discuss the darkness that resides in all of us. Should we be surprised when Christians sin--and sin heinously? What do we mean by total depravity? What do we do when we come face to face with the wickedness of our hearts?
The post BONUS: The Dark Side of Christianity appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
In this episode, we discuss the darkness that resides in all of us. Should we be surprised when Christians sin--and sin heinously? What do we mean by total depravity? What do we do when we come face to face with the wickedness of our hearts?
The post The Dark Side of Christianity (Part 2) (MEMBERS) appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
How should we understand the callings of Christ? "Come follow me, take up your cross, forsake all, and hate yourself?" Are these law passages or gospel? Should these callings be a burden on the Christian or comfort? How does the theology of glory vs the theology of the cross help our interpretation of these passages?
Special Update: Jon, Jimmy, and Justin give a special update in the intro!
The post The Callings of Christ appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
On this episode, Jon interviews a new team member that will be joining Theocast, Jimmy Buehler. Jimmy is currently the pastor of Christ Community Church, a church plant in Willmar, MN. To learn more about Jimmy please visit: theocast.org/jmmybuehler
The post Special Interview with NEW Host: Jimmy Buehler appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.
On this episode, Jon Moffitt interviews a new host that will be joining the Theocast team, Justin Perdue. Justin is the Senior Pastor of Covenant Baptist Church in Asheville, NC (covbap.org). To learn more about Justin Perdue, visit: theocast.org/justinperdue
The post Special Interview with NEW Theocast Host: Justin Perdue appeared first on Theocast - Reformed Theology.