The Wednesday Conversation: Recent Episodes
Coram Deo Church Community
A weekly conversation about how the gospel of Jesus Christ connects to the questions and issues of everyday life. Hosted by the leaders of Coram Deo Church in Omaha, Nebraska.
In this episode, Bob Thune and Will Walker discuss Carl Trueman's recent book The Desecration of Man and its central claim that our modern crisis isn't one of disenchantment but of desecration. They explore how abandoning a biblical vision of humanity has led to the objectification of people, the loss of shared purpose, and a culture shaped by power rather than truth.
The Soul Brothers set the docket with three timely topics: reports of rising church attendance, Carl Trueman's insights on technology and expressive individualism, and the public witness of Ben Sasse as he faces terminal illness. Hunter Beaumont and Kevin Cawley join Bob Thune to discuss evangelism, discipleship, AI, consumerism, human finitude, and why embracing God-given limits is essential for faithful Christian living.
Public education is often the subject of cultural consternation and controversy — so what does it look like to follow Jesus as a schoolteacher? In this episode, Bob Thune and Bethany Gilbert sit down with Courtney Tompkins, a high school math teacher, to discuss the joys and challenges of serving students in today's educational environment. Courtney shares how her faith shapes her work, the challenges of caring for students, the importance of Christian community in the workplace, and why ordinary faithfulness matters in the classroom.
In this edition of Bob Reads Books, Bob Thune and Will Walker discuss Alan Noble’s book To Live Well: Practical Wisdom for Moving Through Chaotic Times. Framed around the seven classical virtues, the book offers a practical guide for navigating modern life with clarity. Bob and Will explore why virtue formation matters, how habits shape character, and what it looks like to choose decisively, suffer steadfastly, and live moderately in a culture that often pushes us in the opposite direction.
In this episode, Bob and the Soul Brothers (Hunter Beaumont and Kevin Cawley) explore five elements of good preaching: biblical exposition, theological coherence, rhetorical power, cultural insight, and unction. They discuss the difference between preaching and teaching, the challenges of developing young preachers, and why faithful preaching requires both biblical depth and real-world application.
When the Pope speaks, millions around the world listen. That’s why in this episode, Bob examines Pope Leo XIV’s newly released encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas, an expansive document designed to help Christians think critically about AI. Bob highlights three key insights from the document — the moral nature of technology, the dangers of a technocratic paradigm, and the value of human personhood — while also offering Protestant critiques.
Articles & Resources:
https://www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnifica-humanitas.html
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/26/technology/pope-leo-ai-religion.html
College campuses are often places of identity exploration, cultural tension, and individual expression — so what does it look like to be a faithful Christian in the collegiate workplace? In this episode, Bob Thune and Bethany Gilbert sit down with Bailey Tupper, a university administrator, to discuss faith, higher education, and the quiet ministry of Christian hospitality. Bailey shares her story of coming to faith in college, navigating secular workplace culture, serving students with excellence, and learning how to relate to people with grace and truth.
What everyday habits are most important for Christian formation?
We all know that our habits form us, for better or for worse. But it can be overwhelming to confront our bad habits and consider the good habits we should be building. In this episode, Dusty White and Bob Thune commend three simple, basic practices for Christian formation: meditation on Scripture, self-denial, and embodied community. In an age dominated by distraction, consumerism, and digital immersion, these three practices are essential to counter-cultural discipleship — and to a slower, deeper, more relational way of following Jesus.
How does the gospel critique and confront modern Western culture?
Will Walker joins Bob Thune to introduce a new feature of the podcast called “Bob Reads Books." In this episode, Will talks with Bob about Lesslie Newbigin’s book “Foolishness to the Greeks.” Together they explore how Western culture has been shaped by secular assumptions about truth, freedom, and religion. They discuss the fact/value split, individualism, pluralism, the public truth of the gospel, and why the local church itself may be the church’s strongest apologetic in a post-Christian world.
What will shape the future of the church in America?
In a 2023 lecture and essay, Bob made the case that the future of the church is contested. But much has changed in the past three years. In this episode, Bob is joined by Kevin Cawley and Hunter Beaumont — two members of a long-standing pastoral cohort known as the “Soul Brothers.” Together, they reflect on their decade-long friendship and discuss the church’s contested future.
The conversation explores the changing landscape of evangelical Christianity, the challenges facing the church in a polarized culture, and what it means to remain theologically grounded while engaging missionally with the world.
From rising costs to demanding schedules, the current state of youth sports often pressures families to sacrifice time, money, and agency. In this episode, Bob interviews Dusty about his experience starting a new youth baseball team — one that prioritizes character, family rhythms, and Sunday worship over performance and profit. Bob and Dusty also reflect on the challenges of navigating select sports, the importance of setting boundaries, and how Christians can creatively build alternatives that better align with their convictions.
Steph Juliot joins Bob and Bethany for the first Faith + Work episode to talk about her role as a writer for The Pour Over, a news platform helping Christians stay informed without becoming overwhelmed. We discuss faith and vocation, healthy news consumption, AI, media ethics, and how the gospel shapes the way Christians respond to current events.
Introducing All Things New — reflecting on faith, culture, and the human soul.
Welcome to All Things New, the newly reimagined midweek podcast from Coram Deo Church. In this episode, we share the vision for the podcast moving forward, including new formats, guest conversations, and recurring themes like faith and work, leadership, and spiritual formation.
We also explore three major cultural developments: the rise and fall of the metaverse, growing legal accountability for social media companies and their impact on mental health, and the reevaluation of the “quiet revival” narrative in the UK after flawed data was uncovered. Through these discussions, we invite Christians to think critically about technology, culture, and the ongoing work of renewal in the world.
How should Christians think about Israel?
Questions about the nation of Israel and its place in the world have resurfaced following the October 2023 attack by Hamas and Israel’s response. These events have precipitated a rise in anti-Semitism and prompted pointed conversations around Zionism. How should Christians relate to the modern state of Israel? In this episode, Bob responds to a listener request for some perspective on that question. He defines Zionism, addresses four common critiques, and offers three compelling reasons for Christian Zionism.
Chapters:
(0:00) How Should Christians Think about Israel?
(1:18) What is Zionism and Why is it in the News?
(7:00) Answering Four Critiques
(27:22) Christian and Zionist?
(33:32) Closing Thoughts
Articles & Resources: https://firstthings.com/the-patriarch-and-the-palestinians/
In Chris’s final episode, we reflect on his journey over the past 11+ years.
In this episode, we say goodbye to Pastor Chris Hemmelman as he prepares to move from Bellevue, Nebraska to Woodstock, Georgia. We reflect on his journey from church planting resident to lead pastor at First City Church — and what he’s learned along the way. Chris shares what he’s learned about church planting, leadership development, risk-taking, and the slow, relational work of faithful ministry. The conversation closes with reflections on gratitude, presence, and trusting God in seasons of transition.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Chris’s Farewell Episode
(2:00) Discernment, Risk, and Residency
(7:45) Lessons in Leadership Development
(10:30) What Would You Tell Yourself 10 Years Ago?
(15:20) Favorite Podcast Moments
(22:40) Transition, Presence, and Prayers for What’s Next
How do we make sense of the differences within the four Gospels?
Readers of the Bible can't help but notice that Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John sometimes tell the same stories differently. Was there one angel at the tomb (Matthew), or two (Luke)? Did Jesus cleanse the Temple at the beginning of his ministry (John), or near the end (Matthew)? In this episode, we explore how to make sense of this variety within the Gospel accounts. We discuss apparent contradictions, the literary conventions of first-century biographies, and how to read the Gospels with wise confidence in the reliability of Scripture.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: The Problem of Harmonization
(4:27) Not Video Camera Footage
(10:50) Place Names and Geography
(14:25) Order, Grouping, and Theological Structure
(21:09) Letting Matthew Be Matthew
Why does American life feel so fractured, and what can Christians do about it?
American society feels increasingly polarized, anxious, and divided — and many people sense that the problem is deeper than politics. In this episode, we explore the idea that what’s really fraying is solidarity. Drawing on James Davison Hunter’s Democracy and Solidarity and a recent article by Jake Meador, we examine three competing visions for renewing American solidarity. We argue that neither free-market individualism nor ethnic nationalism offers a meaningful solution, and we discuss how Christianity provides a framework for a distinctive and robust solidarity.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: The Future of The Wednesday Conversation
(7:45) Liberal Individualism and the Loss of Solidarity
(14:55) Nationalism as a False Solution
(22:34) A Christian Vision of Dependence
(30:35) What Solidarity Looks Like in Everyday Life
(34:00) Stitching the Fabric Back Together Locally
Do evangelicals really lack cultural elites — and if so, does it matter?
An essay in First Things argues that evangelicals have failed to cultivate elites in America’s most influential institutions, leaving them underrepresented in culture-shaping domains like media, academia, and politics. In this episode, we examine author Aaron Renn’s claims, question his definition of “elite,” and explore where the argument resonates — and where it falls apart. We discuss populism within evangelicalism, the absence of a robust theology of vocation, the tension evangelicals feel toward ambition and power, and reflect on how the gospel reframes ambition, faithfulness, and cultural impact.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Evangelical Elites?
(8:07) Why Evangelicals Struggle with Power
(19:08) Ambition, Leadership, and Discernment
(26:26) The Need for Flagship Churches
(32:29) The Gospel’s Reframing of Success
Are white millennial men becoming a “lost generation”?
A widely shared essay in Compact magazine contends that white millennial men have borne an overlooked cost of the DEI era — facing stalled careers, closed doors, and deep vocational disillusionment. In this episode, we examine the article’s claims and reflect on why this story has resonated so strongly. We discuss meritocracy, generational resentment, the spiritual danger of letting vocational injustice define our identity, and how the gospel speaks to disappointment and unfair systems.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: The Lost Generation
(4:40) A Listener’s Story
(12:05) Journalism, Academia, and Hollywood: The Evidence
(20:00) Meritocracy, Resentment, and Generational Fallout
(22:45) What the Gospel Offers in an Unfair World
Why is question-asking vital to spiritual growth and formation?
Asking questions is an important part of forming good relationships. Yet sometimes we fail to ask questions or ask the wrong kind of questions in an effort to avoid conflict or out of fear. In this episode from 2016, we discuss the art of asking good questions — how it shows love and curiosity, why it’s essential to our spiritual formation, and how we can be attuned to the Holy Spirit as we do it.
What were some of the highlights of 2025?
On the last day of 2025, we spend some time reflecting on the past year. In this episode, we talk about impactful books we read, memorable moments in ministry, insights from Scripture, and longings we have for ourselves and our churches.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Chippers?
(4:58) Books We Read in 2025
(10:57) Key Ministry Moments
(17:03) Engaging with Scripture
(20:42) People & Places
(25:05) Longings
How should a pastor process a calling to leave a church and transition to a new ministry setting?
Pastoral transitions can be difficult for churches and leaders to navigate. Sometimes pastors move on for the wrong reasons. But sometimes, the Spirit of God is on the move. How can we discern the difference? In this episode, Chris opens up about a forthcoming transition in his own ministry. We discuss the importance of relational trust, self-awareness and discernment, inviting community into the process, and the practical realities of leading through change.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Christmastime = Snack Time
(1:02) Chris is Departing Omaha
(4:49) Moving from Good to Good
(14:54) The Stages of Reckoning with a Pastoral Shift
(19:33) Questions Pastors Should Be Asking
(29:31) Questions Churches Should Be Asking
How should Christians approach contraception and family planning?
Unless a Christian couple has taken the time to investigate contraceptive and family planning options, it can be hard to know what exists, what is safe, and what is ethical. In part two of this two-part episode, we continue our conversation about how to honor God in our approach to family planning. We discuss the risks of hormonal birth control and respond to some additional listener questions about when to start having kids — and also whether it's OK to be done.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Resetting the Discussion
(1:45) Fertility Awareness vs. Hormonal Birth Control
(8:13) When Are You Ready to Have Kids?
(17:30) Is It OK to Be Done Having Kids?
(22:38) Christian Freedom in Family Planning
How should Christians approach contraception and family planning?
Unless a Christian couple has taken the time to investigate contraceptive and family planning options, it can be hard to know what exists, what is safe, and what is ethical. In part one of this two-part episode, we address a listener's question about how to honor God in our approach to family planning. We discuss the predominant cultural narratives about contraception, how a Christian view is different, and why the fertility awareness method offers a unique wisdom in this area.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Listener Justin Has a Question
(3:16) The Cultural Starting Point for Contraception
(9:03) Strengths & Weaknesses of Protestant Thought
(13:33) Reflecting on Our Assumptions about Birth Control
(21:44) Jenn Newman Joins Us to Talk About Fertility Awareness
How can we resist the gamification of our economy — and help others do the same?
The advent of digital technology has incentivized ease and encouraged isolation. Young people, especially young men, have become socially risk-averse — spending more time alone and cultivating negative habits on their devices. In this episode, we engage a Derek Thompson Substack article that explores the connection between online betting and social isolation. We discuss the fight for young men's souls, the need for embodied discipleship, and how the church can be a counter-cultural champion of relationships and community.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Keep it Up, Young Christian Men
(3:07) We’ve Forgotten How to Feel Lonely
(7:05) The Loss of the Pro-Social Script
(16:19) Why Embodied Discipleship Matters
(21:13) Disempowering the Digitization of Our Lives
(27:33) Concluding Reflections
How can we submit to and enjoy the slow process of sanctification?
It’s not uncommon for Christians to feel discouraged by their progress (or lack thereof) in sanctification. But what if our vision of maturity focused less on the destination and more on slow growth over time? In this episode, we use the Sermon on the Mount to consider Christian discipleship and maturity. We discuss Jesus's image of discipleship as a path or road, how to handle discouragement along the way, and the joy of not taking ourselves too seriously.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Follow-Up on AR-15's
(5:49) Reframing Sanctification as a Journey
(15:25) The Journey is Slow
(20:57) We Will Reach the Destination
(27:33) How to Enjoy the Process
How can we advocate for a people-first economy?
Artificial intelligence is disrupting our vocational and social worlds — and as it starts to dominate industries, more people are trying to discern its proper limits and boundaries. Intuitively, we are hesitant about the increasing growth of AI. But why? Is it because we sense that people should do our work? In this episode, Bob weaves together two articles to discuss the contrast between building an AI-first culture and a people-first culture. Along the way, we consider the importance of a Christian anthropology, the growing questions about AI's economic impact, and how Christians can be champions of others in their lives and workspaces.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: What Do We Do about AI?
(5:39) We’re Heading Toward an AI-First World
(11:04) Choose the Person over the Non-Person
(15:46) A Principle for Engaging AI
(21:57) The ROI on AI
(27:49) A People-First Approach
Articles & Resources:
https://www.newyorker.com/news/the-financial-page/the-ai-profits-drought-and-the-lessons-of-history
https://mereorthodoxy.com/wendell-berrys-unanswered-question
The Vatican clarified its stance on the virgin Mary—where do Protestants agree & disagree?
Last week, the Vatican's Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith released a document clarifying Roman Catholic teaching about Mary the mother of Jesus. Mariology has been a point of contention in Protestant/Catholic relations, but the Mater Populi Fidelis document reveals some promising reforms. It also fails to go far enough. In this episode, Bob commends three specific areas of reform, points out three areas of ongoing disagreement, and encourages Protestant/Catholic debate and conversation.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: The Release of Mater Populi Fidelis
(4:34) Three Encouraging Reforms to Marian Devotion
(13:04) Where We Think the Vatican Still Missed
(24:23) What Protestants Can Glean
Articles & Resources:
https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/11/04/251104a.html
Why are so many Christians unwilling to bend on the issue of guns?
In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s murder and other recent instances of gun violence, the debate over gun regulation is raging once again. The right to bear arms is constitutionally protected and deeply ingrained in American culture — but does that mean all guns should be permitted? In this episode, we respond to a listener question about where Christians should stand on gun control. We discuss biblical wisdom and gun regulation, the interplay of the gun debate with societal virtue, and why “rights” don’t always align with human flourishing.
Chapters:
(0:00) Listener Sophia Has a Question
(3:20) Teeing Up the Gun Control Debate
(7:40) Why Christians Should Support Reasonable Gun Regulations
(12:17) The Case Against Assault Weapons
(16:10) Why We Are Still Pro-Gun
(20:00) Guns and Virtue
Resources:
Gun Control and the Right to Bear Arms — Good Faith Debates https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOMePdBBLnI
How should the Reformation shape how we worship today?
It’s always good to know and understand our heritage when it comes to worship. Why do we structure our worship gatherings the way we do? Why do we sing together as a congregation? Should we take communion every week? In this episode from 2020, we talk about the book ‘Reformation Worship’ and look at what principles and ideas we can take from the Reformation and put into practice in modern day worship.
Technology is threatening our humanity — how do we push back?
The digital revolution is forcing the human race toward a civilizational bottleneck, Ross Douthat contends in a recent New York Times article. What survives depends on our deliberate choices. Unless we "fight for a future where human things and human beings survive and flourish," much of what we love will be lost. In this episode, we discuss Douthat's insights about how the virtual replaces the real, why we put up with this digital substitution, and how AI accelerates the process. We close by considering how Christians can help preserve the practices and pursuits that make us truly human.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Bob's Recent Cycling Accident
(4:47) The Digital Age as a Civilizational Bottleneck
(16:38) How The Virtual Replaces the Real
(21:30) Intentional & Purposeful Stewardship
(31:37) Preserving the Really Human Things
Bob interviews Trevin Wax about his new book, The Gospel Way Catechism.
Trevin Wax is Vice President of Resources and Marketing at the North American Mission Board and a well-known author, speaker, and cultural commentator. He also serves (along with Bob) as a fellow at The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. In this episode, Bob and Trevin talk apologetics. They discuss Trevin’s newest project "The Gospel Way Catechism" and its unique approach to counter-formation. They also explain the role of cultural apologetics in explaining and defending the Christian faith.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: What is Counter-Catechesis?
(7:26) How to Decide What to Put In a Catechism
(14:56) Who Should Be Using Catechisms?
(21:40) Trevin’s Contribution to “The Gospel After Christendom”
(25:00) Explaining Cultural Apologetics
(30:45) Lesslie Newbigin's Missiology
Bob interviews Trevin Wax about his life, leadership, writing, and formative influences.
Trevin Wax is Vice President of Resources and Marketing at the North American Mission Board and a well-known author, speaker, and cultural commentator. He also serves (along with Bob) as a fellow at The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. During Trevin's recent visit to Nebraska for a TGC pastor's quarterly, we invited him to join the podcast to discuss his life and work. In this episode, we hear about Trevin’s upbringing, his writing, his experiences in ministry, and his vision for the next few decades.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Kelsey’s Cookies (Again)
(1:28) Trevin’s Family and Church Background
(10:18) Developing the Discipline of Writing
(21:46) Experiences with and Work with the Keller Center
(37:59) What’s Next?
What are catechisms and why do we use them?
To those unfamiliar with the term, “catechism” can seem like a strange word. Simply put, catechisms are question-and-answer tools that communicate Christian theology in simple ways. In this episode, we respond to a listener question about the origins of catechisms and creeds. We discuss why the Reformation led to a golden age of catechisms, what makes catechisms important, and how they connect us to historic Christianity and spur us to deeper worship.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Kelsey's Cookies
(1:55) Catechizing Catechumens with Catechisms
(12:50) Some Important Creeds & Catechisms
(18:56) Laying a Foundation for Theology & Discipleship
(29:29) Catechisms Tether Us to the Historic Church
In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, how do we process our emotions, responses, and reactions?
On September 10, 2025, conservative political activist and outspoken Christian Charlie Kirk was murdered during a campus event at Utah Valley University. Some people are feeling shock, anger, fear, grief, and lament; others are celebrating or mocking. How do we make sense of what we’re feeling? How do we respond to what others are saying? And what does this moment portend for American politics and the future of civic debate? In this episode, Bob engages these questions and offers some commentary and perspective.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: First Things First
(5:44) Who Was Charlie Kirk ?
(12:36) What Does His Assassination Reveal?
(27:06) Temptations We Should Resist
(39:22) Parting Thoughts
Articles & Resources:https://www.digitalliturgies.net/p/accelerants-and-tethers
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/16/opinion/charlie-kirk-assassination-left-violence.html
https://brianmattson.substack.com/p/theythem
If you’ve listened to the radio lately, perhaps you’ve noticed that pop music is sounding a lot like worship music. Some of the year's most popular songs use biblical imagery, emotive builds, and vocal choirs—not unlike what you might hear in church. On this week’s episode, we discuss a recent article that traces this trend. We explore why music producers are mimicking worship music and what it suggests about our cultural moment.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Myrtle & Cypress
(3:21) Is "Secular Praise Music" Even a Thing?
(13:24) What’s Driving the Change in Pop Music
(19:03) What Music Says About Our Collective Longings
(30:05) We Can Worship Even When Songs Are Hard to Sing
Article:
https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/music/article/everyone-is-listening-to-secular-praise-music-yes-even-you-110058855.html
Over the past half-century, evangelical Christians have rediscovered spiritual formation. Richard Foster, Dallas Willard, John Ortberg, and more recently John Mark Comer have helped re-emphasize spiritual practices and the interior life. But why does so much popular writing and teaching on spiritual formation lean on Catholic sources – mystics and monks and Merton? Is there a distinctly Protestant stream of spiritual formation that we can rediscover? If so, what might it teach us? In this episode, we interact with a new book from Matthew Bingham, A Heart Aflame for God. Bingham asserts that there IS a deep Protestant tradition of spiritual formation, and one of its distinctives is the centrality of Scripture. In this episode, we discuss why we tend to minimize Scripture in spiritual formation, why the Puritans saw Scripture as central to spiritual formation, and how we can practically foreground the Scriptures in our spiritual practices.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Have We Lost the Thread on Spiritual Formation?
(4:26) The Primacy of the Word of God
(13:23) Some Critiques of a Word-Centric Spiritual Formation
(20:43) What the Puritans Have to Say
(26:22) Let the Word of Christ Dwell in You Richly
In credobaptist traditions, we baptize new Christians upon their profession of faith in Christ. But what happens when, a few years later, a new experience of God's grace makes me question my prior baptism? How can we separate our subjective experiences of God’s promises from the objective nature of those promises? In this episode, we respond to a listener question and discuss how the Reformation tradition understood baptism, what the animating force of baptism is, and the connections between baptism and discipleship.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Why We Love Our Listeners
(2:46) Can/Should I Get Re-Baptized?
(5:57) Who’s Speaking in Baptism?
(13:31) Differences Among Paedobaptist Traditions
(20:22) What "Conversion" Is and Isn't
(25:34) Coming Back to the Great Commission
August 2025 marks Coram Deo Church’s 20th birthday. On this episode, we reflect further on God’s grace to Coram Deo over the past two decades. We talk about what we’re grateful for, what years were the most fun, what aspects of Coram Deo turned out differently than we expected, and why the "institutional" aspect of a church is crucial to city renewal.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: David's Reign
(2:19) What We're Grateful For
(10:42) The Church As Institution
(14:16) What We're Surprised By
(19:15) What Was the Most Fun
(24:38) Listener Take-Aways
August 2025 marks Coram Deo Church’s 20th birthday. On this episode, we reflect on God's grace to Coram Deo over the past two decades. We discuss the circumstances of the church's founding, the ups and downs of starting and leading a church, and what’s changed in the cultural and ministry environment between 2005 and 2025.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Happy Birthday, Coram Deo
(2:21) How Coram Deo Got Started
(10:06) What Ministry Looked Like in 2005
(18:35) Leading a Growing Church
(24:32) Joys and Trials
(30:33) Church Planting: Then Vs. Now
If it hasn't happened to you yet... wait for it. Sometime in your mid-30's, life starts to feel mundane. You find yourself asking: How did I get here? Do I like what I do? Do I still want this job? Despite all the cliches, "mid-life crisis" is real. The world urges you to try something new - a new job, a new hobby, maybe even a new spouse. But what if God has a different invitation—one that invites you to interrogate your restlessness? In this episode, we answer a listener question about how to persist at work. We discuss stewardship, settling, friendship, and the wisdom of knowing your portion (Ecclesiastes 9:9).
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: I Guess This is a Mid-Life Crisis Podcast
(2:53) Mid-Life as an Invitation to Settledness
(12:35) Settling IN vs. Settling FOR
(21:00) What Does the Lord Want from Me Next?
(25:11) Find People Who Aren’t Impressed with You
(31:02) What Is Your Portion?
John MacArthur, longtime pastor of Grace Community Church in California, passed away on July 14, 2025. MacArthur preached in the same pulpit for 56 years. His recorded sermons and syndicated radio and television programs brought the gospel to people all over the world, and his writings impacted many more. On this episode, we discuss MacArthur’s legacy, the impact of his ministry, where we disagree with him, and the gaps his death leaves behind.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: Patrick and Renee Got Us a Kringle!
(2:25) John MacArthur’s Obituary
(8:34) John’s Life and Ministry
(19:27) Where We Disagree with MacArthur (and Commend Him)
(25:38) Who Are the Next Generation of Stalwart Preachers?
Resources & Articles:
https://firstthings.com/a-straight-line-to-the-pulpit-the-legacy-of-john-macarthur/
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/15/us/john-macarthur-dead.html
Communion should be a regular practice for all Christians—but there is freedom in how often and in what ways the church practices this historic sacrament. In this 2018 episode, we discuss how and why our churches observe communion the way we do.
In this episode, we hear a Christian doctor’s perspective on non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT). He discusses the accuracy of the tests, explains what they are and aren't good for, and unpacks the challenges of practicing medicine as a Christian (especially in this specialty). We also ask our special guest Hannah what advice she would give to couples who are expecting children. Catch up on Part 1 of this conversation if you missed it.
Chapters:
(0:00) Introductions: More Insights from Hannah’s Journey
(4:30) Advice for Couples Who Are Expecting
(8:16) Bethany’s Experience with NIPT Testing
(14:26) A Christian Doctor’s Perspective on Prenatal Testing
(21:31) Final Thoughts on a Christian Approach to Prenatal Care
Resources & Articles:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/01/upshot/pregnancy-birth-genetic-testing.html
https://wng.org/opinions/discrimination-down-to-a-science-1641556177
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgljz4vve2o
https://www.pew.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2022/09/06/inaccurate-prenatal-tests-can-harm-expectant-parents-but-stronger-oversight-can-help
https://time.com/7264271/ivf-pgta-test-lawsuit/
In recent years, pregnant moms have increasingly been offered NIPT (non-invasive prenatal testing) early in pregnancy. Silicon Valley startups are racing to cash in on the market for early-stage tests that can help identify genetic abnormalities and disorders. But it turns out that these tests are highly unreliable and often misleading. A New York Times investigation discovered that the five most common microdeletion tests (tests that look for chromosomal abnormalities) are incorrect 85% of the time. In this episode, a special guest (Hannah) shares her own troubling experience with faulty NIPT testing. Her story highlights the personal and ethical implications of this emerging aspect of prenatal medicine.
(0:00) Introductions: Might There Be Good BBQ in Omaha?
(3:36) A Basic Overview of Pre-Natal Testing
(9:27) Hannah Tells Her Story
(28:49) Spread The Word: Christian Couples Need to Know the Facts on NIPT
Resources & Articles:
https://www.nytimes.com/2022/01/01/upshot/pregnancy-birth-genetic-testing.html
https://wng.org/opinions/discrimination-down-to-a-science-1641556177
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgljz4vve2o
https://www.pew.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2022/09/06/inaccurate-prenatal-tests-can-harm-expectant-parents-but-stronger-oversight-can-help
https://time.com/7264271/ivf-pgta-test-lawsuit/
Summer is in full swing. We usually talk about big, weighty, theological and cultural topics on this podcast; but in the summertime, we take an episode or two to talk about what we're reading at the pool. In this episode, Bethany leads a conversation exploring the things we’re reading, watching, and thinking about this summer.
(0:00) Introductions: Summer Pursuits
(0:45) What We’re Reading
(10:28) Bob’s TGC Update
(15:40) What We’re Thinking About
(28:36) What We’re Watching (and Listening To)
In the early 2000s, New Atheism was all the rage. Many people left faith behind, convinced they didn't need religion. But it turns out society hasn’t been able to meaningfully replicate the benefits of church. In a recent New York Times article, Lauren Jackson describes how secularism sought to build transcendent community through means like yoga, CrossFit, SoulCycle, meditation and more. Despite these efforts, the data show that there is overwhelming empirical support for the value of being at a house of worship on a regular basis. In this episode, we discuss Jackson's article, and especially her poignant conclusion: "My spiritual longing hasn't been sated by secularism... I want a god."
(0:00) Introductions: Camille from Long Island’s Donut Drop
(2:00) Why America Is Revisiting Faith
(5:05) How Secularism Has Tried (and Failed) to Meet Our Needs
(16:57) Longing for “Inconvenient” Community
(22:31) Christian Community Provides the Meaning We Long For
(28:50) Be More Outgoing About What You Believe
Article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/18/style/religion-america.html
Last month, Trinity Classical Academy sent forth its first class of graduating seniors. To mark this milestone, we're republishing an interview that first aired in 2020 on Owen Strachan's now-defunct podcast. At that time, Dr. Strachan was on the faculty at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and he invited Bob Thune to MBTS's Spurgeon Library to talk about the founding of Trinity Classical Academy. The founding and building of institutions is critical for gospel renewal, for societal health, and for the preservation and propagation of Christian faith. The story of TCA's success—from a fledgling startup school to a thriving educational institution—should inspire Christians to be dreamers and builders and doers.
(0:00) Introductions: Bob Introduces Owen Introducing Bob
(4:33) The Origin Story of Trinity Classical Academy
(20:30) The Aim of Education: Formation
(27:13) How Can You be a Catalyst in Your Context?
Welcome back for part 2 of the AI Debate! Bob Thune and Jacob Tewes continue their friendly debate about the proposition: "Christians can and should use AI tools." This episode considers the downstream effects of AI, the faulty anthropology it assumes, the question of whether Christians should be "early adopters," and whether demonology should factor into the conversation. Catch up on Part 1 if you missed it.
(0:00) Introductions: Diving Right Back In
(4:41) AI Assumes an Unbiblical Anthropology
(8:12) Does AI Open Us Up to the Influence of Spiritual Beings?
(20:26) Is Healthy Skepticism Enough?
(35:21) What Should Christians Do with AI?
Special guest Jacob Tewes joins the podcast to engage Bob in a friendly debate about AI. The proposition: "Christians can and should use artificial intelligence." Bob argues the negative; Jacob, based on his background as an attorney for multiple AI-related startups, argues the affirmative. We talk education, innovation, Christian freedom, and the question of responsible use. Whether you're optimistic or skeptical about AI, this conversation will deepen your thinking about the ethics, implications, and limits of artificial intelligence. Catch the next episode for part 2 of the debate!
(0:00) Introductions: Jacob & Jacob Join The Podcast
(2:21) The Proposition
(9:58) Jacob: AI is a Tool Christians Should Use Wisely
(15:19) Bob: AI is Not a Neutral Tool
(19:51) Is Responsible Use of AI Possible?
(31:10) AI is a Bad Shortcut
Numerous Silicon Valley startups now offer parents the ability to test and screen embryos, identifying those at increased risk for various health problems. But while the marketing language seems helpful, the dark reality is that these companies promise to destroy human lives before they have time to grow. In this episode, we use an article from the American Enterprise Institute as a catalyst to begin a conversation about consumer eugenics. We explore how companies like Orchid Health weaponize parents’ fears and anxieties, and why Christians need to be ethically proactive and wise in evaluating reproductive technology.
(0:00) Introductions: Consumer Eugenics is Becoming a Big Thing
(1:39) Why Consumer Eugenics Is Not a Good Thing
(15:12) Understanding the Ethics & Language of Consumer Eugenics
(18;53) The Need for a Robust Anthropology
(24:58) Keeping Our Eyes Wide Open
Article: https://www.aei.org/op-eds/silicon-valleys-consumer-eugenics/
The death of Pope Francis and subsequent election of Leo XIV has put the papal office at the forefront of cultural discourse. But how and when did Christians start to revere the bishop of Rome? Where did the Pope's authority and importance originate? And why did the Reformers strongly critique the papacy? In this episode, we discuss the development of the papacy in church history, the internal and external pushback against the Pope, and the importance of developing thoughtful, convictional Protestant sensibilities.
(0:00) Introductions: Why We’re Not Papists
(3:24) The Rise of the Pope in Church History
(11:07) Apologetic Arguments Against the Papacy
(24:47) Reading a Letter from Luther
(31:36) It's OK to Be a Convictional Protestant
For decades, Christianity has been in decline in the UK. The common wisdom held that secularization was inevitable, and that the US would follow the same pattern. But a brand-new study shows a surprising trend. Over the last 6 years in England and Wales, church attendance has risen 50%. The largest increases are among young people – especially young men. And they're not just showing up to church, they're also reading the Bible and practicing spiritual disciplines. In this episode, we dig into what the Holy Spirit is doing across the pond and what it portends for the future of the church.
(0:00) Introductions: Katrina’s Last Snacks
(1:48) The Quiet Revival in the UK
(6:47) The Kids are Alright
(11:57) The Stats Say: Invite Your Friends to Church!
(16:54) Investing in the Kingdom of God
Study: https://www.biblesociety.org.uk/research/quiet-revival
Everyone is in need of change. But how do Christians actually participate in the work of change? In this archive episode from 2018, we survey Paul Tripp’s book Instruments in the Redeemer’s Hands to discuss the simple biblical pattern for helping people change: love, know, speak, do.
A couple weeks ago, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School announced the impending closure of its Chicago-area campus. The demise of TEDS is the latest in a spate of struggles among Christian higher-ed institutions. Why are seminaries and colleges closing their doors? What does it mean for the future of theological education? In this episode, we dig into the history of 20th-century American Christianity to explore the founding of evangelical institutions, the challenges that brought them to this point, the "Southern takeover" of American evangelicalism, and what the future might hold.
(0:00) Introductions: Theological Education is Suffering
(5:00) What Happened at TEDS
(10:36) Some Broader Analysis & Bob's Historical Survey
(22:16) The Rise of the SBC
(32:29) What this Means for Christian Scholarship
(37:07) Opportunities for the Future
Intelligence is everywhere. People used to say that "knowledge is power," but machine learning is changing everything. One author argues that we've moved from the Information Age to the Age of Agency. In this new era, your impact will be measured not by what you know, but by your ability to take action and make things happen. What changes might this new era require in education, discipleship, and spiritual formation? In this episode, we discuss how Christians can apply the wisdom of the Scriptures to this moment and spur one another to renewed agency.
(0:00) Introductions: We’re Talking A.I. Again
(3:10) The Rise of Agency
(10:31) 4 Eras of Human History
(16:07) You Can Just Do Things
(22:41) Wisdom vs. Knowledge
(24:56) Applying Wisdom to the Intelligence Age
Article: https://jeffgiesea.substack.com/p/agency-is-the-new-superpower
In our recent conversation about the recent Pew Religious Landscape Study, we missed an interesting data point: the decline of the Roman Catholic church. In this episode, we interact with a WORLD Opinion piece that explores the data and proposes some explanations for the downward trend. We discuss Catholic/Protestant apologetics; why high-profile "celebrity conversions" don't tell the whole story; and why discipling and catechizing our kids is vital to the growth and health of Christianity.
(0:00) Introductions
(1:19) Something We Missed from the Pew Religious Landscape Study
(13:38) What the Decline of Catholicism Means for Culture At Large
(16:14) Opportunities for Charitable Conversations Among Protestants and Catholics
(24:17) The Importance of Discipling and Catechizing Our Children
Article: https://wng.org/opinions/mass-exodus-1743031983
Research Study: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2025/02/26/decline-of-christianity-in-the-us-has-slowed-may-have-leveled-off/
In 2021, Mark Zuckerberg changed his company's name from Facebook to Meta. It signaled his decision to go "all in" on virtual reality and everything it promised. (We talked about it in Episode 366: Meta Church.) But less than four years later, the meta-hype is collapsing, with every major VR company reporting losses and pulling back products. In this episode, we discuss what we can learn from the meteoric rise and decline of virtual reality... and how this tale can make us wiser in our approach to technology.
(0:00) Introductions and a Quick Trip into the Archives
(2:56) Virtual Reality Gets a Reality Check
(8:22) Humans Actually Like Embodied-ness
(17:28) Knowing How Technology Shapes Us
Article: https://wng.org/articles/a-dose-of-reality-1738632435
Modern people spend lots of time, energy, and money on their bodies - whether it be through diet and supplements or working out and exercise. Some become so focused on exercise and nutrition that they idolize their bodies while others are prone to neglect their physical bodies. In this episode, we respond to a listener-submitted question about the role of physical fitness in the life of the Christian. How does the fact that we're going to die (Psalm 90:10) inform a Christian approach to fitness? How can we avoid idolizing or neglecting our physical health? Listen in as we discuss the wisdom Scripture provides in this area.
(0:00) Introductions and Talking Physical Fitness
(5:50) Grounding the Conversation in Scripture
(9:23) What Role Does Physical Fitness Play in the Life of a Christian?
(19:08) How Do I Know I’m Glorifying God with My Body?
(27:06) Stewarding All of Our Resources Well
Much has been said and written about the decline of Christianity in America, including on this podcast. But is something changing? A new Pew Research Center study shows that the decline of Christianity has tapered off over the past few years. In this episode, we dig into the statistics and analyze the opportunities they present for Christians to be on mission.
(0:00) Introductions
(1:05) The Data Shows…De-Churching Is Leveling Off
(7:50) Some of Our Favorite Research Study Nuggets
(12:13) How to Make Sense of This as Church Leaders
(24:10) The ONE Thing We Want You to Take with You
Article: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2025/02/26/decline-of-christianity-in-the-us-has-slowed-may-have-leveled-off/
On January 10th of this year, book lovers lined up to purchase the newest release in the Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros. These books are part of a genre known as romantic fantasy, or "romantasy" - and its popularity is exploding. But how should Christian women relate to romantasy literature? Recently, a church member reached out to us with some unease about how nonchalantly her Christian friends were imbibing the explicit sexual imagery in these novels. So we invited her to come on the podcast and talk about it! In this episode, Adrienne joins us to discuss the rise of romantasy, the ways that it can steer us away from a godly view of sex and intimacy, and how Christians can better commend what is good, true and beautiful.
(0:00) Introductions: Guess Who’s Baaaaaack??
(2:15) The Rise of Romantasy and What Makes it Problematic
(11:27) Two Main Romantasy Markets
(15:50) Why Escapism is a Powerful Temptation
(19:29) What Does it Mean to Engage Culture?
(32:38) How to Commend Good Art
Article: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/christians-need-know-romantasy/
How can we make sense of right-leaning politics in the wake of the 2024 election? Is a second Trump presidency the result of populism? Nationalism? Techno-oligarchy? Something else? Recently, Jake Meador identified four distinct "tribes" on the political right that share some common aims but differ widely in their approaches. Whatever your personal politics, you're going to be living with these tribes for the next few years - so you might as well get to know them. In this episode, we interact with Meador's essay and explore its implications for Christian faithfulness.
(0:00) Introduction and Stories
(5:43) The Four Tribes on the Political Right, Explained
(24:31) How Christian Civic Republicanism Differs from Classical Liberalism
(27:02) The Importance of Freedom of Conscience
(30:40) A Case Study on Christian Nationalism
(35:50) Christianity and the Common Good
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/after-progressive-neo-liberalism
Over the past decade, leaving the church has been a trend - and the leavers have been mostly left-leaning. But Jake Meador identifies a more recent trend of "right-wing exvangelicals." Whereas the left-wing exvangelicals liked Jesus but weren't sure about the church, right-wing exvangelicals want to keep civic religion but aren't as interested in the way of Jesus. In this episode, we talk about these trends, how we're seeing them in our churches, and how the gospel speaks to them.
(0:00) Introductions & Snack Shout-outs
(2:49) What is an Ex-vangelical? Definition & History
(9:54) The Growing Trend of Right-Wing Exvangelicals
(13:00) Politics as a Replacement Religion
(18:07) Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing
(30:34) C.S. Lewis: Beware of “Christianity And"
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/two-types-of-exvangelicals
Artificial Intelligence is generating a lot of interest these days. President Trump even issued an executive order to "sustain and enhance America’s global AI dominance." So how should Christians think about AI? Can a machine even be "intelligent?" How does Christian theology help us go beyond the hype to engage the substance of the debate? In this episode, we draw on the wisdom of Thomas Aquinas to discuss the nature the mind, the intelligence of angels and demons, and how the Christian tradition helps us evaluate and assess technological progress.
Article: https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2025/01/96910/
In a recent article for The Atlantic, Derek Thompson writes about the surge in Americans eating alone, shopping alone, and generally doing life alone. In this episode, we discuss his analysis of the problem, talk about the wisdom the church can offer, and explore how the Christian tradition promotes both community and solitude.
Article (requires subscription): https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2025/02/american-loneliness-personality-politics/681091/
There's a bit of a "vibe shift" underway in American culture, and Silicon Valley is one place where it's evident. Recently, a listener passed along an article about the renewed interest in Christianity among tech and venture-capital elites. In this episode, we explore how the spiritual hunger in Silicon Valley relates to a larger cultural trend, and the opportunities it provides for Christians to show the beauty and goodness of the Christian story.
Article (requires subscription): https://www.theinformation.com/articles/the-antichrist-and-the-new-apostles
God reveals his grace to us through both law and gospel. In this episode from 2016, we talk about how the law and the gospel fit together.
Daniel in the lion's den. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace. The handwriting on the wall. These beloved stories are found in the book of Daniel. But Daniel also contains some strange prophecies, some troubling dreams, and some confusing apocalyptic imagery. In this episode, we discuss how this fascinating book of the Bible captures the sweep of the whole biblical story. We explore the date of Daniel, its textual tradition, its place in Jewish apocalyptic literature, and what it tells us about faithful living in exile.
In recent decades, liberalism—the political philosophy that undergirds Western democracy—has come under increasing scrutiny. Though it purports to emphasize freedom, independence, and self-determination, it has created a crisis of meaning and an erosion of norms. In this episode, we analyze a new "post-liberal manifesto" that points out the problems with liberalism, imagines what might take its place, and explores how Christians can offer a new vision of the common good.
World War II has become the dominant story of the 20th century. Just think about all the films it's inspired: Schindler's List, Saving Private Ryan, Dunkirk, Inglorious Basterds, Oppenheimer, and hundreds more. But a recent article from Dr. Alec Ryrie poses the question: what happens to Western culture when we pivot from a positive moral exemplar (Jesus) to a negative one (Hitler)? In this episode, we engage Ryrie's article, unpacking the moral shift in our culture and exploring its implications.
As a new year approaches, we look back on the year that's ending. We discuss some of the newsworthy & notable events of 2024, some of the things that brought us a deeper sense of worship, and some things we’re excited about as we anticipate 2025. Have a great holiday season, and we'll see you next year!
In this episode, Bob interviews James Martin, Lead Pastor of Bradfield & Rougham Baptist Church in Suffolk, England. They discuss James’ story, the joys and struggles of pastoring in rural England, and his hope for gospel renewal in the UK and Europe.
“And the LORD regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart” (Genesis 6:5-6). When we see this kind of language in the Bible, how should we interpret it? In this episode, we discuss the function of anthropomorphic language in Scripture. We consider how it helps us to understand God, but also how it can lead to error if we minimize the Creator-creature distinction.
The book of Genesis tells us how everything came into being. But other creation narratives existed in the Ancient Near East. Does that mean each culture's creation story is just a relativistic myth? In this episode, we compare the Genesis account with the Epic of Gilgamesh, revealing the surprising uniqueness of the biblical story.
Thanks for listening over the past 10 years! On this episode, we welcome back Mike and Bethany to reflect on some of our favorite moments, remember our favorite guests, and express our gratitude for the ways God has graced us through the Wednesday Conversation. (Thanks also to half a dozen different listeners who provided commemorative snacks to mark this milestone!)
In the freshest episode of the podcast ever recorded, Bob, Dusty, and Chris turn on the mics at 5:30am to offer their real-time responses to the 2024 election.
“When Adam had lived 130 years, he fathered a son in his own likeness…The days of Adam after he fathered Seth were 800 years” (Genesis 5:3–4). When we come across these massive human lifespans in the book of Genesis, how are we to make sense of them? In this episode, we discuss the literary function of numbers, the symbolic significance of numbers in the Ancient Near East, and the importance of attentive reading as we grow in our love for the Scriptures.
“The Nephilim were on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of man and they bore children to them” (Genesis 6:4). Texts like Genesis 6 raise profound questions and don’t always offer easy explanations. In this episode, we discuss the perplexing topic of the Nephilim. Exploring some of the intertextual connections in Scripture, we survey the historical interpretations and try to shed some light on this strange episode in the Genesis narrative.
"Now the serpent was more crafty than any other beast of the field that the Lord God had made" (Genesis 3:1). Why does this talking serpent suddenly appear in the Genesis narrative? Drawing inspiration from Michael Heiser’s book The Unseen Realm, we dig into how ancient readers understood the concept of spiritual beings, how those beings are described in later passages of Scripture, and how these insights help us become more imaginative readers of the biblical story.
"I will bring a flood of waters upon the earth to destroy all flesh... Everything that is on the earth shall die," God says in Genesis 6:17. So was Noah's flood a global deluge that covered the entire earth? Or was it a regional event? By even asking this question, are we playing fast and loose with the text? In this episode we take up some of the questions surrounding the flood narrative in Genesis 6-9.
The veracity and historicity of Genesis is taken for granted by the New Testament authors and by Jesus himself. Yet many modern Christians feel the tension of holding a high view of Genesis while also weighing the claims of modern science. In this episode, we respond to a listener's question about how to properly read Genesis, taking into account the claims of geology, archaeology, and genetic science. Can we still believe in a historical Adam and Eve? Or are they merely legendary characters in a mythical story?
After creating the heavens and the earth, God rests. The principle of Sabbath becomes a major theme throughout the rest of Scripture. Aaron Mattox joins us to discuss how this theme of Sabbath-rest is emphasized and developed within the biblical storyline, and what it means for us today.
Dusty’s back, everyone! Also Chris returned from his trip to Nepal. In this episode, Chris shares some highlights from his trip, including some updates on the growth and health of the church in Kathmandu.
Genesis is an intriguing book, and a complicated one. It forms the prelude to the entire biblical narrative. In this episode, Aaron Mattox joins us to discuss some of the particulars of Genesis 1, and how we can grow as good and faithful Bible readers.
It's book release week! Bob's latest book Gospel Training for Deacons hit the shelves on August 27. We thought it would be a good time to discuss the book and respond to a listener's question about how Bob approaches the writing process and what he emphasizes as he writes.
How should we understand the difference between sin and immaturity? To put it simply: one is moral/ethical and the other is not. In this episode, we parse out how to identify spiritual, emotional, or relational immaturity. We also explore how the gospel helps us grow out of immaturity into deeper wisdom.
Cathedrals have long captured the imagination of human beings. But why? What is it about these sacred spaces that evokes a sense of wonder and beauty? On his recent vacation, Chris visited several cathedrals in Spain; upon his return, we discuss the importance of developing a Christian aesthetic and how it can lead us to a deeper worship of God.
Christians are a pro-life people. In the past, the pro-life strategy was fairly straightforward: help pregnant moms and work toward the repeal of Roe v. Wade. But the Dobbs Decision in 2022 brought about a shift in legislative strategy and tactics. In this episode, Bob uses Rusty Reno's categories of principle and prudence to discuss political platforms, state-level ballot initiatives, and how Christians can work together with grace and charity.
Article: https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2024/07/the-republican-party-sidelines-the-pro-life-cause
The whole Old Testament points beyond itself for fulfillment and anticipates the coming of Jesus Christ. In this episode from 2017, we discuss how understanding typology can enrich our reading of the Bible and sharpen our theological clarity.
It’s an election year, friends! And newsworthy events in American politics are taking place almost every day. Recently, Donald Trump decided to make JD Vance his running mate. That choice marks a new moment in American politics: it signifies that populism is here to stay. In this episode, Bob unpacks some insights from political scientist Damon Linker about how this new populism differs from traditional conservatism, what it means for the Republican and Democratic parties, and how Christians should think about their political identity.
Article: https://damonlinker.substack.com/p/the-convert
What does gospel renewal look like as Christians mature in their walk with the Lord? Drawing from the work of Tim Keller and John Newton, we look at how even our strengths and virtues have a "shadow side" that leads to selfishness and sin. We talk about how we can humbly acknowledge these “small faults" and cultivate the fruit of the Spirit more fully in our lives.
Article: https://quarterly.gospelinlife.com/wisdom-of-john-newton/
In an article for First Things, Brad Littlejohn uses traditional Christian moral theology to tackle the issues of immigration and national borders. In this episode, we summarize Littlejohn’s arguments, how the analogy of a house and home helps create distinctions, and how governments and Christians are called to act with wise judgment and prudence within our finitude and limitations.
Article: https://www.firstthings.com/article/2024/06/theology-of-immigration
Wiley and Sons, the largest publisher of scientific journals in the world, announced that they had found over 8,000 junk papers—papers written by artificial intelligence but attached to the name of a researcher—and were pausing publications of several scientific journals. Bob takes some time to unpack the implications of this and what happens when we make “The Science” the ultimate authority.
In a recent article, Mary Harrington uses the term “omnicause” to describe how progressivism opposes whatever is considered mainstream, institutional, or Western. In this episode, we discuss where Harrington’s analysis has validity, where we might disagree, and how Christians can practice good cultural apologetics in this moment.
Harrison Butker, the placekicker for the Kansas City Chiefs, has received a lot of ire from media outlets following a speech he made at the commencement of Benedictine College. In this episode, Bob breaks down the context in which his speech was given, what Butker said and didn’t say, and what it looks like for Christians to live with courageous convictions in their vocations.
Speech Transcript: https://www.ncregister.com/news/harrison-butker-speech-at-benedictine
What does discipleship to Jesus look like over the course of your life? And how does that change as you move into different seasons of life? In 2018, we used Ronald Rolheiser’s book “Sacred Fire” to discuss the three phases of discipleship and how that helps us to frame discipleship in the local church.
How can we have meaningful evangelistic conversations with our non-Christian friends and family? In his book “Making Faith Magnetic,” Dr. Dan Strange develops the work of J.H. Bavinck, proposing 5 "magnetic points" that are present within every human and every culture. In this episode, we analyze these magnetic points, explore their "subversive fulfillment" in Jesus, and consider how they can be useful in talking about faith.
Book Link: https://www.thegoodbook.com/making-faith-magnetic
After gathering in NYC with the other fellows of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics, Bob shares some insights he gained and lessons he learned. He also discusses some of the ways the fellows are seeking to apply the intellectual work of the Keller Center to the practices of the local church.
Human beings have an inherent desire to be good at something. But becoming competent requires self-awareness and humility. In this episode, we lay the groundwork for how the gospel frees us to admit our strengths & weaknesses, discover our aptitudes, and grow in competence.
Why does church membership matter? In this episode from 2016, we discuss the importance of being committed to the local church.
This episode continues Bob's conversation with special guest Johan Verster, exploring the particulars of Ligpunt Church and the context of growing and planting churches in South Africa.
Bob sat down with Pastor Johan Verster during his time in the United States to talk about his story, his journey to faith, and how he came to plant Ligpunt Church in Pretoria, South Africa.
It’s easy for the sacrament of communion to become commonplace, and it can be tempting for Christians to participate mindlessly. Many Christians may not know the answers to questions like, “What is communion?” and “Why do we observe it regularly?” In 2019, we decided to spend some time discussing the sacrament of communion - the four main views surrounding it and how we choose to practice it in our local churches.
In a recent article for New York Magazine, Andrea Long Chu asserts the belief that kids should have the freedom to change their bodies and sexual identity at any time for any reason. In this episode, we discuss what that means for the direction of culture and society, and how Christians can courageously and faithfully uphold the traditional sexual ethic.
For much of the 20th century, the resurrection of Jesus was believed by Christians as a matter of faith, but doubted by scholars as a matter of history. NT Wright’s book “The Resurrection of the Son of God” changed all that. In this episode, we survey Wright’s major argument for the historicity of the resurrection, and explore how his work can help us interact with skeptics.
As image-bearers of God, we are made to feel. Yet we can have a limited emotional range or lack the ability to tap into what we’re feeling in a given moment. In this episode, we discuss why emotional awareness is important and how it leads to a deeper, more honest relationship with the Lord and one another.
Aaron Renn’s new book “Life in the Negative World” uses the experience of The Crossing Church as an example of what happens when a church tries to minister faithfully in a "negative world." Patrick Miller, pastor of The Crossing, wrote an article to tell the fuller story of their church's partnership with a progressive film festival. In this episode, we dissect Miller’s essay and discuss where Renn’s hypothesis is helpful and where it falls short.
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/the-crossing-negative-world
2014 was the year American evangelical Christianity began to fracture. In today’s episode, we reflect on a Jake Meador article that uses the Acts 29 Network as a case study exploring that fracturing. Based on our own experiences during that time, we analyze where Meador's analysis rings true and where it doesn't.
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/ten-years-evangelical-fracturing
In ministry work, pastors often have rich, joyful, redemptive stories to tell. And there are also some odd stories. The ones that make you ask, “Did that really happen?” From being interrupted while preaching a sermon to being asked to fly across the country to approve of a relationship: in today’s episode, we recount some of the most interesting experiences we've had in pastoral ministry.
“Gentle parenting” is the latest parenting trend, and parents are increasingly being exposed to it as it gains popularity through social media. In this episode, we discuss what the gentle parenting approach entails, and how Scripture evaluates this method of child-rearing.
Article: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/gentle-parenting-biblical/
Many Christians observe Lent. Others criticize the practice, claiming that Lent is "too Catholic." In this episode, we explore the history of Lent and discuss why it can be a very meaningful season for Christians. We also disagree with one another on some of the particulars of Lenten worship.
How do we apply the Good Samaritan parable in a world where we’re constantly exposed to the needs of others? Do we have the same moral obligation to those across the world as we have to those closest to us? Prompted by a recent inquiry from a listener, we discuss the ever-provocative question: who is my neighbor?
Almost 10 years ago, we sat down with Dr. Gary Nebeker to talk about shame and its impact on the soul. Because shame can hinder us from experiencing the joy and freedom of the gospel, it's important that we attend to its presence and engage it in light of the gospel.
Many episodes ago, we discussed the topic of Christian nationalism and whether this term was even precise enough to be meaningful. More recently, media outlets have been applying the label "Christian nationalist" to almost any political proposal that's self-consciously Christian. In this episode, we discuss an article by Andrew Walker analyzing this trend. Walker argues that “Christian nationalism is this generation’s progressive epithet used to discredit and scapegoat conservative Christianity.”
Article: https://wng.org/opinions/look-out-theyre-coming-1704802870
Every disciple of Jesus should expect opposition. Jesus teaches as much in the Sermon on the Mount. But if the world used to oppose Christians for matters of grace – the exclusivity of the gospel, personal piety, or a relationship with Jesus – it seems that now we're hated for nature. In this episode, we discuss an article by Rhys Laverty that raises this issue and explores how it affects Christian discipleship.
Article: https://thenewalbion.substack.com/p/what-did-you-plan-to-be-hated-for
Pope Francis recently issued a statement on blessings for same-sex relationships: unleashing celebration, critique, and every reaction in between. In this episode, we explore some responses from prominent Catholic and Protestant voices and discuss the latest topic of cultural division within the Catholic church.
In the first episode of the new year, we sit down to talk about the things that stood out to us in 2023: specifically, some of the best or most interesting books or articles we read, movies we watched, or podcasts we listened to. Let us know what topics you'd like to hear us cover in 2024!
In the final 2023 episode of The Wednesday Conversation, we discuss the final chapter of The Christian Family. Herman Bavinck writes about what he sees on the horizon for how society and governments will treat the family, but also reminds his readers of God’s eschatological plan for the future of the family.
A few weeks ago, we shared the conversion story of prominent atheist Ayaan Hirsi Ali. This week, we want to highlight the story of another former atheist, Coram Deo pastoral resident David Sundman. In this episode, David shares his story of recovery from addiction, his rap career, and his surrender to Christ.
David’s Spotify page: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7oxAxfBXkMVwlCvGcY63wN?si=08RqXl36QWisQeoGWJMYbQ
After a weekend of teaching in Omaha in 2017, Christian philosopher Dr. James K.A. Smith sat down with the pastors at Coram Deo to talk about his life, his work, and his calling.
Ayaan Hirsi Ali is well-known in intellectual circles and was one of the most prominent atheists in the world. Once a devout Muslim, she became an atheist after the 9/11 attacks. Even more recently, she’s become a Christian. In this episode, we discuss a bombshell article she wrote just a few weeks ago explaining her conversion to Christianity.
Article: https://www.thefp.com/p/ayaan-hirsi-ali-why-i-am-now-christian-atheism
The conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to be a central, global focus. One troubling aspect of the situation is the justification for Hamas’ terrorism that has been offered from all corners of our society. In this episode, we analyze the moral dialogue in our culture from a Christian perspective and explore the broader conversation around the rhetoric of "decolonization."
Article: https://archive.ph/2023.10.28-061758/https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/10/decolonization-narrative-dangerous-and-false/675799/
Gen Z (1997 to 2012) is a generation marked by digital savviness and infinite connection, but also profound loneliness. And in the wake of the Asbury revival last year and the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, many believe that this generation is not only longing for but is primed for spiritual renewal. In this episode, we are joined by Coram Deo’s communication coordinator (and Gen Z representative) E.Beth Hemphill to discuss why this generation is positioned for revival.
Article: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/gen-z-primed-spiritual-renewal/
What’s next for the church? In August, Mere Orthodoxy editor-in-chief Jake Meador laid out a vision for the future of the church in America, combining cultural observations with insights from recent church history. In this episode, we discuss Jake's proposal that the best path forward is to build something like a New Mainline. What does that mean? And what would it look like to try?
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/the-american-church-in-the-fourth-republic
On Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist group Hamas launched an attack on Israel. Since that day, the unfolding conflict has been the focus of newspapers, political pundits, social influencers, and concerned citizens alike. This was the biggest loss of Jewish life in one attack since the Holocaust, and some of the reactions have been troubling to say the least. For Christians, it is especially concerning as some populations call for the erasure of the Jewish state.
In this episode, we discuss a few questions that have risen to the surface in response to the Hamas attacks: Does this connect to biblical prophecy? What are the moral and ethical realities of the situation? How does this tie to current American debates and conversations?
"One who destroys the family is digging away the moral foundations of society," writes Herman Bavinck in Chapter 9 of The Christian Family. In this installment of Third Wednesday Theology, we explore Bavinck's insights about the connection between family and society.
The week of this recording, we officiated three funerals. Funerals can feel unnatural and even uncomfortable, and many people find them difficult to navigate. But the gospel frees us to show up with a Spirit-filled presence in moments of loss. In this episode, Bob asks Dusty to share some of what he’s learned from his experiences as a police chaplain and pastor.
If you’ve walked through a season of physical suffering, you’ve probably had someone say they are “praying healing over you” or even “claiming healing for you.” In today’s episode, we explain what the Bible says about healing and try to answer questions like: Why do some Christians claim they can heal someone? How should I respond to such claims?
Weeks ago, we talked about The Great Dechurching (ep. 439) - the downward trend of church involvement in America over the past 20 years. In a new article, Lyman Stone suggests this de-churching problem is less about the secularization of American culture and more a problem of families not passing their faith to their kids. In this episode, we engage Stone's essay and explore its implications for the family and the church.
Article: https://ifstudies.org/blog/secularization-begins-at-home
Is it nature or nurture? Herman Bavinck weighs in on the age-old question about human formation in this installment of Third Wednesday Theology. In chapters 7 and 8 of The Christian Family, Bavinck speaks of singleness, marriage, childbearing, and the nurture of children.
Our digital mail bag was full of questions about Revelation 20 after our “Four Views on the Millennium” conversation (Episode 441)! In this follow-up episode, we aim to answer questions like, “What does it mean to take the Bible literally?” “What are the interpretive approaches to Revelation?” and more. We break down the hermeneutical assumptions that underlie different views of the millennium and examine them through a biblical lens.
One of our listeners posed a question spurred by the ministry of Charles Spurgeon in London. By 1884, Spurgeon's Metropolitan Tabernacle was running 66 benevolent ministries encompassing just about every human need at that time. So: is mercy ministry meant to be a function of the local church, or is it an assignment for parachurch organizations? In this episode, we share our thoughts on the role of the church (and of individual Christians) when it comes to mercy ministry.
In this episode from 2017, we discuss Jonah 3 and the story of when God planned to destroy Ninevah. By the end of the story, the Ninevites repented and God did not bring about the prophesied disaster. So we examine the question, “Does God change his mind?” and discuss how the unchanging and sovereign nature of God is not compromised through the nature of covenantal contingencies.
A few listeners have asked us to discuss the millennial reign of Christ as taught in Revelation 20. Historically, this has been a point of debate and even confusion for Christians. How should we read Revelation 20? How does symbolism work in apocalyptic literature? In this episode, we survey the four major views of the millennium, and we identify the one we find most biblically defensible.
We continue our discussion about Herman Bavinck's book The Christian Family during this Third Wednesday Theology conversation. In this episode, we engage chapters five and six: The Family In the New Testament and Dangers Confronting the Family.
40 million Americans have stopped attending church in the past 25 years. This represents the largest concentrated change in church attendance in American history. In this episode, we discuss why people are leaving — and the main reason is far less dramatic than you might think.
Article: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2023/07/christian-church-communitiy-participation-drop/674843/
In a recent article published in Harper's magazine, Pepperdine professor Jason Blakely writes about the impact of scientism—the overextension of scientific authority. In this episode, we discuss his findings as well as the separation between hard science, social science, and political decision-making—and how conflating the three can (and did) damage public trust.
Article: https://harpers.org/archive/2023/08/doctors-orders-jason-blakely/
Part of being a joyful Christian is being a joyful human. So every once in a while, we take a break from theological and cultural topics to just talk about the things we're enjoying as human beings. In this episode, Bethany Gilbert leads the discussion with some “check-in” questions that explore the things we're reading, watching, and celebrating this summer.
For the last three years, we've been discussing the work of Herman Bavinck on our Third Wednesday Theology episodes. This week, we're privileged to have Bavinck's biographer, Dr. James Eglinton, join us for a special interview.
Eglinton is the Meldrum Senior Lecturer in Reformed Theology at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. He is a lifelong Scotsman, raised in Inverness and holding degrees from Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. He's also given much of his time and effort to translating Bavinck's writing into English. In this wide-ranging conversation, we talk to Dr. Eglinton about his life, his work, and what makes Bavinck unique among modern theologians.
Links:
https://www.heritagebooks.org/products/bavinck-a-critical-biography-eglinton.html
https://www.crossway.org/books/christian-worldview-hcj/
https://www.crossway.org/books/personality-and-worldview-hcj/
Freedom. Liberty. Rights. Democracy. These are the stock terms of our American political lexicon, and they come to us from the tradition known as liberalism. Whether right, center, or left, we’re all liberals in our political philosophy. However, as Christians, we need to embrace both the good and the limits of liberalism. In a recent essay at Mere Orthodoxy, Bob highlights the major problem with a view of freedom that places individual rights and autonomy at the center. What David Brooks calls "autonomy-based liberalism" is in fact the only kind of liberalism there is once we abandon a Judeo-Christian framework.
Articles: https://mereorthodoxy.com/david-brooks-and-the-limits-of-liberalism https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2023/06/canada-legalized-medical-assisted-suicide-euthanasia-death-maid/673790/
Judith Butler is perhaps the most important academic professor you've never heard of. A book she wrote in 1990, asserting that sex and gender are both social constructs, has totally reshaped the way our culture thinks about gender. We're all downstream from Judith Butler, and we're worse off because of it.
If you're troubled by transgenderism, saddened to see the destruction of healthy bodies, and wondering how we got here... you need to be familiar with Judith Butler. And you need to understand how the Bible critiques and counteracts her paradigm of human sexuality.
https://www.firstthings.com/article/2023/05/judith-butlers-trouble
The Free Press reported in May 2023 that Critical Social Justice ideology is beginning to transform the mental health professions. If you doubt that claim, you'll want to listen to this episode as special guest Audrey Conrad narrates her journey into and out of a clinical master's program in marriage and family therapy. Since she was a woman of faith, her supervising professor told her she would be unable to celebrate LGBTQ identities and, therefore, was unwelcome in the profession. She now works as a biblical counselor on staff at her local church.If you're a Christian who cares about helping people, you'll want to ponder the questions raised in this episode. It turns out that seeing people as members of an identity category just isn't as helpful - or transformative - as seeing them as individual human beings made in the image of God.
https://www.thefp.com/p/how-therapists-became-social-justice-warriors
During this Third Wednesday Theology conversation, we continue in Herman Bavinck's book The Christian Family as he works his way through the Old Testament. In this episode, we discuss chapters three and four: The Family Among the Nations and The Family In Israel.
We're not talking about real porches; we're talking about metaphorical ones. Abraham Kuyper once spoke of Christendom as a "forecourt" that prepared people to enter into the church. In one of the last articles he wrote before his death, Tim Keller observed that since the forecourt of Christendom has mostly disappeared, Christians need to be intentional about building porches. In Keller's opinion, hospitality, apologetics, and forgiveness provide three good starting points.
In this episode, we discuss a yet-to-be-published article from Keller Center fellow James Eglinton that explores these ideas.
How should we understand the Christian's relationship to culture?
Two answers to that question - those given by H. Richard Niebuhr (1951) and James Davison Hunter (2010) - have been widely regarded as the most compelling. However, in a recent article, Professor Brad East offers a gentle critique of Niebuhr and Hunter and puts forward a proposal of his own. East suggests four modes of engagement with culture: resistance, repentance, reception, and reform. These modes, says East, are typically all at work simultaneously, and they apply in every possible historical and political context. In this episode, we discuss East's essay, evaluating the limitations of faithful presence and identifying those moments when the church’s witness needs to be marked by holiness and difference.
Brad East’s article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/once-more-church-and-culture/
Back in 2017, we spent an episode discussing an arcane academic concept known as intersectionality. Back then, few people had heard of it. But listening now, you’re likely to recognize the massive influence of this idea in media, the arts, politics, and the academy. In this episode, we discuss Andrew Sullivan's article explaining and critiquing the progressive “doctrine" of intersectionality.
Andrew Sullivan's article: http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2017/03/is-intersectionality-a-religion.html
In her new book, Feminism Against Progress, Mary Harrington writes about some trends in second-wave feminism that need to be contested, and argues that this modern “feminism isn’t evidence of moral progress in some absolute sense, rather it comprises the aggregate response to ways that women’s lives were transformed by the industrial revolution and, crucially, by the departure of work from the home.” She deems her arguments “reactionary feminism.”In this episode, we talk about historical feminism, this more modern feminism of freedom (liberation from all constraints), and what the gospel has to do with it.
Third Wednesday Theology is back! We're reading Herman Bavinck's book The Christian Family, which is a biblical theology of the family. In this episode, we discuss the first two chapters: The Origin of the Family (creation) and The Disruption of the Family (fall).
What do dogs and cultural apologetics have in common? Absolutely nothing, except for this podcast episode. Bob recently spent some time in New York City with the Keller Center; he explains the work of cultural apologetics and talks about some of the projects the Fellows are working on. Also, Chris tells us how he got another dog.
In this episode, we discuss an article that critiques some of the trauma language we're increasingly using in the church. Without minimizing the reality of trauma, we do need to assess whether we’ve allowed these categories to influence the way we approach sin and repentance.
One of the most common aspects of human life is “agency” or making choices. You choose where you live and work, what you eat, and how you act. But the way people make decisions is greatly influenced by their family structures, past relationships, and more. In this episode, we explore some practical ways to spot imbalances in your decision-making and regain a healthy, God-given sense of agency.
Billy Graham. The Jesus Movement. Megachurches. Instagram Influencers. What do they all have in common? In this episode, we discuss an article by Dr. Kirsten Sanders where she traces three phases of evangelicalism in America.
Article: The Evangelical Question in the History of American Religion
Family physician and psychologist Dr. Leonard Sax has seen a dramatic increase in what he calls "permissive parenting" among the families who frequent his practice. He poses the question: is politics affecting our parenting? In this episode, we discuss the basic expectations that Christian parents should have, and how authoritative (loving-yet-strict) parenting positively influences a child’s behavior and future.
Article: https://ifstudies.org/blog/do-your-political-beliefs-affect-your-parenting-
Social psychologist Dr. Jon Haidt stated conclusively at the end of February that “social media is a major cause of the mental illness epidemic in teen girls.” He asserts that the social science data now shows causation, not mere correlation -- and he posted a public Google doc to prove it. In this episode, we discuss how this research should inform Christian parenting, and how it should shape the church's engagement with teenagers.
https://jonathanhaidt.substack.com/p/social-media-mental-illness-epidemic
We'd all like to move on from the pandemic! But before we do... what should we learn? In this episode, Pastor Bob Thune takes a look back at the church’s pandemic response. Three new studies released in February 2023 shed new light on some key areas and provide the benefit of hindsight.
We made it! In the last chapter of Herman Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God' we cover the topic of eternal life. What happens when we die? What will the second coming of Christ be like? Are Heaven & Hell real? In this episode, we explore how Bavinck answers these questions.
We’re more connected than we have ever been before… yet more lonely. Is loneliness a problem to be solved, or a reality to be embraced? In this episode, Pastor Dusty White dives into the topic of loneliness and how it can orient Christians toward solitude with God.
Is it possible that we live in a society that is post-Christian, Christian, & pre-Christian all at the same time? In a recent lecture, Archbishop Anthony Fisher argues that we are. If he's right, how does this change how we engage society with the Gospel? What is required of churches in order for them to continue to thrive? In this special Wednesday Conversation commentary, Bob discusses what he finds provocative about Fisher's ideas.
Is the American church in decline? In a recent article, author Jake Meador argues that it is... and that by rebuilding American Protestantism in two key ways, the Church can flourish again. In this episode, we discuss Meador's article and some of its implications for our listeners.
Artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT are growing in popularity. Recently, a listener used ChatGPT to create a sermon outline, and then sent it along and asked for our thoughts. How will the rise of AI complicate the church's mission? How should pastors and ministry leaders relate to AI tools? In this episode, we discuss the interesting theological and pastoral questions raised by this new technology.
We are nearing the end of our time reading through Herman Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God.' As we pick up in chapter 23, we discuss the role the Church plays in the life of a Christian & the importance of community.
How does God use both counseling and Christian community to bring healing? In this episode, we welcome special guest Mindy Hemmelman. Mindy shares her own story of a debilitating season of mental illness and how God used both counseling & community to help her experience healing and renewal.
Does the gospel of Jesus Christ have implications for how we relate to our pets? You bet it does. How, exactly? And is there a specific dog breed that the Wednesday Conversation endorses? Why are dogs better than cats? In this episode, we seek to answer these questions & give Christians a healthy, balanced vision for pet ownership.
If the last decade has shown us anything, it's that society is overrun with information. In a recent article, two professors assert that because of this influx of information, fake news & disinformation are not necessarily a problem to be solved, but rather a reality to be lived with. What does this mean for Christians? In this episode, we discuss how & why Christians should grow in wisdom & discernment when it comes to the information they take in.
https://www.thenewatlantis.com/publications/reformation-in-the-church-of-science
In chapter 22 of 'The Wonderful Works of God' by Herman Bavinck, we come to the doctrine of sanctification. What does it mean that Christ lives in us, transforming & renewing us in His image? In this episode, we discuss the biblical doctrine of sanctification, and why you can't have sanctification without justification.
The Parliament of Canada recently passed a bill which legalized “medical aid in dying” (or MAiD) for patients facing "enduring and intolerable suffering." Last year, the bill's scope was expanded to include those struggling with mental illness. This alarming development raises important ethical and cultural issues. In this episode, we discuss why Christians should courageously oppose these kinds of decisions, and how we can fight to care and protect those affected by debilitating physical & mental health issues.
Articles:
https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2022/10/canadas-killing-regime
https://www.firstthings.com/article/2023/01/slippery-slopes
A recent article in World Magazine chronicles the steep decline of the United Methodist Church as a result of that denomination's capitulation on sexual ethics. In this episode, we discuss why mainline Protestant denominations continue to decline, and what we can & should do in our churches to ensure ongoing health & vitality.
https://wng.org/opinions/there-go-the-churches-1669902557
One of the most crucial things for Christians to understand is the difference between justification & sanctification. In this episode, we discuss the glorious doctrine of justification by faith, prompted by Herman Bavinck's insights in chapter 21 of 'The Wonderful Works of God.'
Merry Christmas! Perhaps you've heard that Christmas is a pagan holiday taken over by Christians. In this episode, we discuss an essay from British historian Tom Holland that seeks to set the record straight. We also share some favorite Christmas traditions.
https://unherd.com/2021/12/the-myth-of-pagan-christmas-2/
In a recent long form article, doctor & historian Marco Ramos observes that the "brain biology" research that's dominated psychology and psychiatry for the past 25 years has led to no new discoveries about how mental illness works. In this episode, we discuss his article & how the role of community and spirituality are crucial when it comes to helping people heal.
https://www.bostonreview.net/articles/mental-illness-is-not-in-your-head/
Should churches be quick to adopt therapeutic approaches when caring for their members? Do therapeutic categories help or hinder good pastoral care? In this episode, we seek to answer these questions by discussing a recent article from Jake Meador at Mere Orthodoxy.
https://blogs.mereorthodoxy.com/jake/church-and-the-therapeutic-ctd/
This episode aired in December 2020.
Atonement and the Kingdom of God are two important themes in the bible that many theologians often disagree about. After reading 'The Crucified King' by Jeremy Treat, Coram Deo intern Travis Barrett helps summarize how these two themes come together in scripture and help deepen our understanding of the gospel.
Samuel James's recent review of Chuck DeGroat's book "When Narcissism Comes to Church" critiques DeGroat for replacing biblical categories with therapeutic ones. In this episode, we discuss the book review and the broader question of whether therapeutic language helps or hinders us in addressing sin.
What does it mean to be called to faith in Christ? That's what Herman Bavinck seeks to explain in chapter 20 of 'The Wonderful Works of God.' In this Third Wednesday Theology episode, we explore the work of salvation in a Christian's life.
Environmental care is an area of cultural concern that's often dominated by leftist & secular voices. What is a Christian's responsibility toward the environment? That's the question we ask in this episode. Using Jake Meador's chapter in the new book 'Protestant Social Teaching,' we discuss how good biblical theology leads us to be good stewards of God's creation.
With the US midterm elections less than a week away, we discuss some of the tensions Christians are facing. Are we to live quiet, peaceable lives? Or is political activism required? In this episode, we explore these questions & discuss how Christians should engage in political life.
With the global fertility rate continuing to decline, author & pastor Kevin DeYoung makes "the case for kids" in a recently published article for First Things. In this episode, we discuss DeYoung's article & its implications for Christians, churches, and society at large.
Article: https://www.firstthings.com/article/2022/11/the-case-for-kids
It's Third Wednesday Theology & we are in chapter 19 of 'The Wonderful Works of God' by Herman Bavinck. In this episode, we explore how the Holy Spirit's role in the life of a Christian is to bring us into fuller & deeper communion with the Father & the Son.
It was announced in August that Matt Chandler would take a leave of absence from his teaching responsibilities at The Village Church after exchanging “unwise” direct messages with a woman who was not his wife. In this episode, we discuss the response of The Village Church elders to this situation & why many Christians seem to display increased cynicism when issues like this come to light.
In a recent sermon, Bob briefly mentioned the split that occurred between fundamentalists & liberals in America in the 1920s. In this episode, we explore this moment in history & how it has shaped the American church today.
The Bible is a work of history and theology, but it is also a work of literature. How does understanding the Bible as literature deepen our appreciation for the Scriptures & the author? In this episode, Chris leads a discussion about the literary conventions of biblical narrative & what these literary conventions reveal about God.
The Bible is a work of history and theology, but it is also a work of literature. How does understanding the Bible as literature deepen our appreciation for the Scriptures & the author? In this episode, Chris leads a discussion about the literary conventions of biblical narrative & what these literary conventions reveal about God.
What exactly does Christ accomplish in his resurrection, ascension, & sending of the Holy Spirit? In this Third Wednesday Theology episode we discuss Chapter 18 of Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God.'
What exactly does Christ accomplish in his resurrection, ascension, & sending of the Holy Spirit? In this Third Wednesday Theology episode we discuss Chapter 18 of Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God.'
After a four month break, we are happy to have Chris back with us! In this episode, he reviews his pastoral sabbatical - the daily rhythms, the work the Lord did in his soul, and some of the ways he was challenged.
After a four month break, we are happy to have Chris back with us! In this episode, he reviews his pastoral sabbatical - the daily rhythms, the work the Lord did in his soul, and some of the ways he was challenged.
We're debuting a new feature called The Wednesday Conversation Commentary, where Pastor Bob provides a more editorial perspective on current events in church and culture. In this episode, Bob asks Christians to consider "leaning in" to the so-called “culture war.”
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2022/06/sheryl-sandberg-leaving-meta-lean-in-feminism/661291/
We're debuting a new feature called The Wednesday Conversation Commentary, where Pastor Bob provides a more editorial perspective on current events in church and culture. In this episode, Bob asks Christians to consider "leaning in" to the so-called “culture war.”
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2022/06/sheryl-sandberg-leaving-meta-lean-in-feminism/661291/
What do you do when life surprises you, but not in a way you were anticipating? How can Christians better prepare for major events in life that impact the soul? In this episode, we discuss five key moments that Christians should anticipate, and what it looks like to remain steadfast & hopeful in the midst of these moments.
What do you do when life surprises you, but not in a way you were anticipating? How can Christians better prepare for major events in life that impact the soul? In this episode, we discuss five key moments that Christians should anticipate, and what it looks like to remain steadfast & hopeful in the midst of these moments.
How does Christ's humiliation deepen our love & worship for Him? Why is it important to understand that Christ's life was not merely a model for human life but a substitutionary sacrifice? These are some of the questions we explore in this Third Wednesday Theology episode where Bob discusses chapter 17 of Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God.'
With transgender ideology on the rise, many Christian parents are left wondering how to navigate conversations surrounding gender & what it looks like to hold to a Christian ethic in this area. In this episode, we discuss two recent articles that broach this subject & explore what it looks like for parents & the church to engage this issue.
Articles: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/transformation-transgender-teen/
https://pitt.substack.com/p/headline-when-a-quarter-of-the-class
Healthy discipleship needs both a bright, clear Christian ethic, and kind, loving Christian care. We live in an age that wants to separate these two. Our culture says that holding to a biblical ethic is unloving; that the only way we can "care" for people is to "affirm" their choices and decisions. In this episode, we discuss how Christians can grow in courage to hold to their ethical convictions.
Has counseling replaced some of the work that could be done in a gospel community? What happens when people begin to withhold parts of their story in a gospel community? In this episode, we discuss these questions & explore how counseling & community can complement each other in meaningful ways.
How does the fact that Jesus is both fully man & fully God lead us to worship him? In this Third Wednesday Theology episode we discuss chapter 16 of Herman Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God' which explores the human & divine nature of Jesus Christ.
Tim Keller has been one of the most influential leaders in American Christianity over the past 30 years. Recently, author & political scholar James Wood lit the internet on fire by critiquing Keller's approach to Christian political engagement. In this two-part conversation, we summarize Wood's articles and discuss whether his critiques have merit.
Articles:
-
https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2022/05/how-i-evolved-on-tim-keller
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https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/a-critique-of-tim-keller-reveals
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https://www.firstthings.com/blogs/firstthoughts/2022/06/how-i-evolved-on-tim-keller-a-follow-up
https://cdomaha.com/wed-convo/2021/3/10/episode-329-valuing-life
Tim Keller has been one of the most influential leaders in American Christianity over the past 30 years. Recently, author & political scholar James Wood lit the internet on fire by critiquing Keller's approach to Christian political engagement. In this two-part conversation, we summarize Wood's articles and discuss whether his critiques have merit.
Articles:
-
https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2022/05/how-i-evolved-on-tim-keller
-
https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/a-critique-of-tim-keller-reveals
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https://www.firstthings.com/blogs/firstthoughts/2022/06/how-i-evolved-on-tim-keller-a-follow-up
On June 24, the Supreme Court released its verdict in Dobbs vs. Jackson, overturning Roe vs. Wade and returning decisions about abortion legislation to the states. In this special episode, Pastor Bob provides perspective and pastoral direction for Christians as we engage this decision and its societal impact.
https://cdomaha.com/wed-convo/2021/3/10/episode-329-valuing-life
What do we mean when we refer to Jesus Christ as mediator? And how does the idea of Christ as mediator move us to worship God in a deeper way? We are just over half way through Herman Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God' & in this episode we discuss Chapter 15 - The Mediator of the Covenant.
A recent article in the Atlantic caught our attention, partly because of its title: Why The Past 10 Years Of American Life Have Been Uniquely Stupid. (True, right?) Author and NYU professor Jonathan Haidt uses the biblical story of the Tower of Babel to illustrate how social media has fragmented American society. In this episode, we analyze Haidt's article & discuss the implications it has for Christians.
What does it mean that God planned out our salvation? In this Third Wednesday Theology episode, we explore the Covenant of Grace in chapter 14 of Herman Bavinck's The Wonderful Works of God.
Data from recent studies shows that 44% of children & teens express having feelings of anxiety & depression. Author David French wonders if the reason kids are struggling with their mental health is reflective of what they see in their own parents. In this episode, we discuss French's article and explore how the gospel offers hope to fearful parents.
Article: https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/parenting-against-the-spirit-of-fear?s=r&utm_medium=email
What's wrong with the world? This is the question that nearly every religion or belief system tries to answer. As Christians, we believe that sin is the answer to that question. In this Third Wednesday Theology episode, we tackle chapter 13 of The Wonderful Works of God, in which Bavinck helps us think deeply about sin & death.
It's Holy Week & we're celebrating by bringing you a bonus episode! In this episode, Bob surveys some of the inter-textuality & symbolism in John's account of the crucifixion.
If you've watched a sporting event on tv lately, you've probably noticed an uptick in ads for sports betting apps. With apps like these growing in popularity & making gambling even more easily accessible, we devote this episode to discussing the problems they create.
In a world of shallow relationships, broken promises, and emotional disconnection, we discuss what it looks like for Christians to cultivate deep, formative, counter-cultural community.
What does it mean to be human? This is the question that Bavinck seeks to answer in chapter 12 of "The Wonderful Works of God." In this Third Wednesday Theology episode, we talk about all kinds of things: evolution, angels, & your dog's ability to reason, to name a few.
As American culture has changed over the last 50-60 years, author Aaron Renn argues that we've moved from a "positive world" for Christianity to a "negative world." As a result, the way in which Christians engage the culture must also change. In this episode, we discuss whether Renn's observations hold true, and whether Christians need a new engagement strategy for the "negative world" in which we live.
What does it mean that we live in a created world that is upheld by God at every moment? In this Third Wednesday Theology episode, we're in chapter 11 of "The Wonderful Works of God," exploring Bavinck's answer to this question.
In a recent article titled "The Failure of Evangelical Elites," Carl Trueman critiques the idea of faithful presence as a viable missional strategy for Christians. In this episode, we discuss the article and consider whether Trueman's arguments should change the way we think about mission.
It's time for the first episode of Third Wednesday Theology in 2022! Listen in as we discuss chapter 10 of Herman Bavinck's "The Wonderful Works of God." If you're interested in reading along with us, you can purchase the book here: https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/the-wonderful-works-of-god-9781733627221?variant=12437042790447
Happy New Year! After a little year-end break we're back and easing into the new year talking about what we've been reading & watching recently.
The longtime editor-in-chief at World Magazine, Marvin Olasky, recently announced that he is stepping down. His stated reasons point to a broader shift in journalism that Christians need to be aware of. In this episode, we take a look at how journalism has changed over the last few years, and how these changes affect the way we interact with news.
Facebook recently changed its name to "Meta" and announced its plans to create an immersive virtual universe. In this episode, we discuss the ways a virtual universe will change embodied presence, our experience of community, and the ministry strategies of the Church.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/prepare-metaverse/
In part 2 of this special episode, Bob interviews Doug Logan, Associate Director of Acts 29 and President of Grimké Seminary, to hear about his journey to faith in Christ, his experiences in urban ministry, and his hopes for the church in America.
In a special episode of the Wednesday Conversation, Bob Thune sits down with Doug Logan, Associate Director of Acts 29 and President of Grimké Seminary, to hear about his journey to faith in Christ, his experiences in urban ministry, and his hopes for the church in America.
In the busyness of life, it's become perfectly normal for people to eat their meals in the car, in front of a screen, or maybe even completely alone. In a recent article from the Institute for Family Studies, author Jeremy Adams stresses the importance of sharing a meal together regularly. In this episode, we discuss his article & its implications.
A few episodes ago we talked about Instagram's negative effects on the mental health of teenage girls... and our listeners offered a lot of feedback. In this episode, we respond to some of that feedback and continue our discussion about the formative effects of social media.
Is it possible to truly know God? This is the question Herman Bavinck has us pondering in Chapter 9 of "The Wonderful Works of God." In this episode, we discuss the theological distinctions Bavinck makes between God's "knowable-ness" and "fathomable-ness."
Recently a whistleblower at Facebook leaked internal documents & research on the use of Instagram & its damaging effects on the mental health of teenage girls. In this episode, we discuss these findings and why this ought to change the way we think about and use social media.
What does it mean to read the Scriptures Christo-centrically? Do we need to find the death & resurrection of Jesus in every text? In this episode, we build on some of the ideas we've explored in recent episodes and discuss what it actually means to read the Bible in a Christ-centered way.
Have you ever wondered how evangelicalism has gotten to where it is today? In this episode, Bob summarizes Iain Murray's book, "Revival & Revivalism," as we discuss the history of American evangelicalism.
Church History lectures:
http://www.bobthune.com/teaching-audio/church-history-lectures/
At the end of August, Harvard University announced the appointment of a new head chaplain - who also happens to be an atheist. What should we make of this? In this episode, we discuss how we got to the place where the phrase "atheist chaplain" even makes sense. We also explore what this reveals about the transcendent longings that every human being has, regardless of their avowed worldview.
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2021/09/20/harvards-atheist-chaplain-controversy
https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2021/9/9/harvard-chaplain-atheist/
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2021/september-web-only/atheism-harvard-interfaith-dialogue-why-i-voted-chaplain.html
It's Third Wednesday Theology & we're in chapter 8 of Herman Bavinck's "The Wonderful Works of God." In this episode, we explore why creeds & confessions are foundational to the Christian faith and how they help Christians think better about God. We also consider how creeds demonstrate the authority of Scripture rather than competing with it.
How does the gospel help us grow in relational maturity and why is it important? In this episode, Dusty shares helpful categories and characteristics of what it looks like for Christians to move from immaturity to maturity in this area.
We want to help you become a better reader of the Bible! And one helpful tool is the "Fallen Condition Focus," a concept introduced by Bryan Chappell in his book "Christ-Centered Preaching." In this episode, we discuss how the FCF deepens our reading & understanding of Scripture and helps us keep Christ central in preaching & teaching.
A recent article from the New York Times details how Facebook is beginning to partner with churches to create better online experiences. In this episode, we explore the church's relationship to Big Tech and why it's important to have a good foundation & understanding of ecclesiology.
Articles: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/25/us/facebook-church.html?smid=url-share
https://www.wsj.com/articles/social-media-religious-freedom-youtube-first-amendment-section-230-carl-trueman-sacramento-gospel-conference-11628802706
Why do we believe Scripture is the Word of God? It's time for Third Wednesday Theology, and this week we're discussing Chapter 7 of Herman Bavinck's "The Wonderful Works of God." In this chapter, Bavinck focuses on the doctrine of Scripture: its revelation, inspiration, preservation, authority, and canonicity. We also start this episode with a few minutes of college football banter exploring the recent Power 5 conference shake-ups.
In 2020, Eric Tonjes lost his wife Elizabeth to cancer. She was 37 years old. On this episode, Eric joins us for an honest discussion about grief, hope, and good theology. He also shares some insights and reflections from his book, "Either Way, We'll Be Alright," published in 2021 by NavPress.
Eric’s book: https://www.navpress.com/p/either-way-we-ll-be-all-right/21870/e-book
Eric’s blog: http://www.erictonjes.com
Eric’s podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-faithful-christian-conversations-without-the-hype/id1464404629
Club sports can become all-consuming for families with talented, athletic children. How should Christian parents think about and navigate this demanding system? In this episode, we discuss a recent article from Matt Feeney on the subject and offer some insights for parents to consider.
Article: https://ifstudies.org/blog/sports-families-the-hungry-system-of-club-sports
Recent data from the Survey Center on American Life found that close friendships are on the decline among Americans, especially among men. In this episode, we discuss this data and explore what this means for the church.
Article: https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/lost-friendships-break-hearts-and
It's time for Third Wednesday Theology! In this episode, we're discussing Chapter 6 of Herman Bavinck's 'The Wonderful Works of God' as it explores the content of Special Revelation.
With only 3 episodes released, a new podcast from Christianity Today called 'The Rise & Fall of Mars Hill' has found a wide audience. We’ve heard from multiple listeners asking for our feedback and commentary. In this episode, we spend time reflecting on the story that’s being told so far.
For some Christians, the doctrine of Hell is difficult to think about and understand, with many arguing that it's cruel and futile. In this episode, we discuss an article from Robert Golding that seeks to help us strengthen our thinking about final judgment and explores why we need the doctrine of Hell.
Article: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/themelios/article/making-sense-of-hell/
Many people struggle with the Bible’s teaching about hell. But could it be that our assumptions about hell are more cultural than biblical? On this week’s podcast, we engage with some of the questions posed by Joshua Ryan Butler in his recent book “The Skeletons in God’s Closet."
This episode originally aired in September of 2016.
Over the past few years, it's become glaringly obvious that American Evangelicalism is more and more divided. In a recent article, Skyler Flowers & Michael Graham discuss what they call the "fracturing of American Evangelicalism." In this episode, we consider their hypothesis and discuss the implications it has for the church.
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/six-way-fracturing-evangelicalism/
It's time for Third Wednesday Theology! On the third Wednesday of each month we read & discuss a chapter from Herman Bavinck's “The Wonderful Works of God." In this episode, we discuss chapter 5 as Bavinck moves from the category of general revelation to special revelation.
Why does it feel like more and more people are "deconstructing their faith" or identifying as "exvangelical?" What do these terms even mean? In this episode, we discuss the exvangelical phenomenon and offer insights as to how Christians can lovingly engage with friends and family members who leave the faith.
In Episode 337 we discussed an article by Brad Edwards examining social media as a "counterfeit institution." Brad listened to that episode and reached out to talk further... and to take Chris up on his offer of copy-editing. So we invited Brad to come on the podcast to discuss the article's implications more thoroughly.
Episode 337: https://cdomaha.com/wed-convo/2021/5/5/episode-337-social-media-as-a-counterfeit-institution
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/church-amongst-counter-institutions/
In a recent article in First Things, Professors Jenna & Benjamin Storey suggest that modern people have become "pixelated souls." Our Western political system was built to help people navigate two competing allegiances: church and state. But people today are formed by such a wide variety of allegiances that this political arrangement doesn't work anymore. In this episode, we discuss the article, consider its argument, and explore its implications.
Article:
https://www.firstthings.com/article/2021/05/pixelated-souls
On the third Wednesday of each month we read & discuss a chapter from Herman Bavinck's “The Wonderful Works of God." In this episode, we discuss chapter 4 as we continue to assess Bavinck's view of general revelation.
Christian parents desire their children to grow up to embrace the Christian faith. Sociologist Christian Smith has spent the last 20 years studying the religious practices of children & adolescents, and in a recent article, he discusses his findings while also offering some helpful advice for parents. Listen in as we discuss the article and explore its insights.
Article: https://www.firstthings.com/article/2021/05/keeping-the-faith
Are social media platforms taking the place of more traditional cultural institutions? In a recent article at Mere Orthodoxy, Brad Edwards argues that they are... and that the implications are troubling. In this episode, we discuss his article and explore how the church can be a counter-formative community.
Article: https://mereorthodoxy.com/church-amongst-counter-institutions/
A recent Gallup poll found that religious membership has fallen to 47% among adults in the United States, the lowest in over 80 years. In this episode, we unpack the data and discuss why it may actually be good news for gospel ministry.
Articles:
https://www.npr.org/2021/03/30/982671783/fewer-than-half-of-u-s-adults-belong-to-a-religious-congregation-new-poll-shows
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/evangelical-history/why-americas-church-membership-rate-is-cratering/
What do we mean when we talk about general revelation and how we can know God through his creation? On this episode of Third Wednesday Theology, we dive into Chapter 3 of Herman Bavinck's "The Wonderful Works of God," to discuss general revelation. If you haven't already, pick up a copy of Bavinck's book and read along with us!
https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/the-wonderful-works-of-god-9781733627221?variant=12437042790447
A recent TGC article by Kevin DeYoung provides some interesting observations about the fragmentation within the church when it comes to race, politics, & gender. In this episode, we discuss and evaluate DeYoung's observations.
Article: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/why-reformed-evangelicalism-has-splintered-four-approaches-to-race-politics-and-gender/
Someone recently suggested the best way to read Carl Trueman's latest book is to begin with the last chapter first. In this episode, we take that advice! We explore the final pages of "The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self," considering Trueman's advice for the church as she ministers to plastic people in a liquid world.
Dane Ortlund, author of the widely acclaimed book Gentle & Lowly, joins us on this episode to talk about his life and ministry. He explains how he came to write Gentle & Lowly and shares some of his burdens for the Church today.
In this episode, we're taking a little break from our usual podcast topics to catch up and answer the question: What have you been reading, watching, and listening to? Our answers run the gamut and feature a strong opinion or two, especially when it comes to The Mandalorian.
It's time for Third Wednesday Theology. And in this episode, we're tackling Chapter 2 of Herman Bavinck's "The Wonderful Works of God." How do we know God? Bavinck asserts that knowing God is not merely intellectual... it's about love.
It's not too late to get a copy of the book and follow along with us:
https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/the-wonderful-works-of-god-9781733627221?variant=12437042790447
On this episode, we welcome special guest Toni Clarke, Executive Director of Assure Women's Center in Omaha. Toni joins us to talk about the state of the pro-life movement in America, and the key role that pregnancy resource centers play in empowering women to choose life for their babies.
As we continue to engage with Carl Trueman's new book "The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self," we come to Nietzsche, Marx, and Darwin. In this episode, we discuss Trueman's suggestion that these three thinkers helped to deconstruct the idea of human nature.
Listen to parts 1 & 2 of our conversation surrounding this book here:
Part 1
https://cdomaha.com/wed-convo/2020/12/30/episode-319-third-world-problems
Part 2
https://cdomaha.com/wed-convo/2021/2/3/episode-324-the-modern-self-part-2
The recent report of sexual misconduct by the late evangelical apologist Ravi Zacharias is horrifying and sad, and brings complicated feelings to those who were shaped & influenced by him. In this episode, we lament, we survey the damage, and we discuss the failure of evangelical institutions in moments like these.
Articles:
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/report-ravi-zacharias-sexual-abuse/
https://africa.thegospelcoalition.org/article/ravi-zacharias-the-scandal-the-hurt-how-to-respond/
It's time for "Third Wednesday Theology," where we devote the third Wednesday of each month to reading and discussing theology. Using Herman Bavinck's "The Wonderful Works of God" as our text, in this episode, we discuss Chapter 1 and the idea that God is man's highest good. (If you haven't already, we would love for you to get a copy of the book and follow along with us!)
In this episode, we're joined by our friend & local area pastor Kyle McClellan, who wrote his doctoral dissertation on the book of Ruth. He helps us understand more fully the literary structure, imagery, and "melodic line" of this intricate biblical narrative.
What do Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the romantic poets Percy Bysshe Shelley, William Wordsworth, and William Blake have to do with the rise of the modern self? Carl Trueman suggests that they helped to lay the foundation for the modern view of the self. In this episode, we dive back in to Trueman's book "The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self" to explore how these poets and philosophers have shaped our view of human personhood.
It's been almost 3 months since the U.S. presidential election... and things have been chaotically interesting, to say the least. In this episode, we look back on recent events and reflect on what God's people need to learn and take away from the turmoil of the last 90 days.
This year we're launching a new feature called "Third Wednesday Theology," where we devote the third Wednesday of each month to reading and discussing theology. We'll be using "The Wonderful Works of God" by Herman Bavinck as our text. In this episode, we give a brief introduction to Herman Bavinck and hopefully provoke you to pick up a copy of the book and read along with us.
https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/the-wonderful-works-of-god-9781733627221?variant=12437042790447
Throughout the Trump era, we've been hearing more and more about the influence of "Christian nationalism." But what is that, exactly? And is the term precise enough to be meaningful? In this episode, we compare two recent TGC articles on the topic with the goal of spurring a more nuanced conversation about Christian nationalism.
Articles:
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/christian-nationalism-patriotism/
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/evangelical-history/come-desire-of-nations-christian-nationalism-between-the-two-advents/
This is from an episode recorded in May of 2019.
What do you spend the first 15 minutes of your day doing? Looking at your phone? Hitting snooze over and over? Attending to your children's needs? In this episode, we talk about why beginning your day in communion with the Lord is important and give practical ways to begin cultivating this habit.
The third world problems we discuss in this episode are probably not what you're thinking. Carl Trueman presents Philip Rieff’s concept of "third worlds” in his new book The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self. In this episode, we explore this concept and talk about why the church needs to be a counter-culture.
Various Christian movements tend to emphasize different aspects of Trinitarian theology - with most giving attention to the Son or the Holy Spirit. But could it be that we have under-emphasized the Father? In this episode, we discuss the importance of understanding the Gospel as a means to communion with the Father.
This episode from the archives takes us all the way back to 2014 when we preached through the book of Isaiah. In this episode, we discuss the season of Advent, how and why we observe Advent, as well as the importance of Sabbath during this season.
In this episode from the archives, we talk about leadership that endures and is future-oriented with special guest, Scotty Smith.
Recorded in May 2015.
Atonement and the Kingdom of God are two important themes in the bible that many theologians often disagree about. After reading 'The Crucified King' by Jeremy Treat, Coram Deo intern Travis Barrett helps summarize how these two themes come together in scripture and help deepen our understanding of the gospel.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, how should we think about public health interventions? Some say our goal should be to prevent death at all costs. Others say we must calculate economic well-being. Philosopher Robert Koons offers us a third way: the Christian virtue of prudence. In this episode, we discuss Koons's recent article in First Things and consider how prudence can help us pursue the common good.
https://www.firstthings.com/article/2020/10/prudence-in-the-pandemic
This episode was recorded in October of 2018.
There couldn't possibly be any more from James K.A. Smith's "Awaiting the King" that we could talk about, right? Wrong. The idea of separation of church and state has caused many Christians to wear their christian identity and political identity separately. In this episode, we discuss the provocative question, "What would it look like to be the church FOR the state?"
The term "woke" has been around for a number of years and is becoming increasingly accepted throughout our culture. In this episode, we survey two articles that discuss whether the ideology of "wokeness" is here to stay, and why it may be more problematic than helpful.
Articles:
https://andrewsullivan.substack.com/p/why-is-wokeness-winning
https://letter.wiki/conversation/930?fbclid=IwAR2AQ5Jl6_BOjeZmgKAiC0Tf39e-D96Z8sLcuR6jUuzeEh2KMq1QelPJeqw
Life involves seasons of hardship and suffering as well as seasons of joy and blessing. Remaining a committed follower of Christ throughout these seasons can be difficult. In this episode, we talk about some of the tools that help sustain a life of discipleship to Christ.
What kind of person do you want to be 10, 20, or even 30 years from now? What kind of changes would you need to make in your life now in order to become that person? As we see in the book of Ecclesiastes and the life of Abraham, the Scriptures urge us to live our lives with the end in mind. In this episode, we share some practical ways to reverse-engineer your life.
It comes along every 4 years, and every 4 years listeners ask us to record an episode about it. No, we're not talking about the Olympics; we're talking about the election. In this episode, we discuss two articles that seek to provide some perspective for Christians as they contemplate voting in the upcoming election.
https://www.nationalreview.com/magazine/2020/11/02/trump-no/
https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/do-pro-lifers-who-reject-trump-have
In a recent article at Public Discourse, Ben Peterson contrasts two differing views of "anti-racism." He argues that a robust debate between these two viewpoints is necessary and vital. In this episode, we discuss the article and how the gospel should inform our thinking about these matters.
Peterson’s article: https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2020/09/71376/
We are revisiting an episode from April 2017 about the topic of Intersectionality. We will be back with a new episode next week!
A word you've likely never heard of is all the rage on college campuses. In this episode, we discuss Andrew Sullivan's recent article explaining and critiquing the secular "doctrine" of Intersectionality.
Andrew Sullivan's article: http://nymag.com/daily/intelligencer/2017/03/is-intersectionality-a-religion.html
Over the last four months, there have been many important conversations about the topic of race. As the culture's dialogue continues, it's important to understand and even question some of the conclusions that are made. In this episode, we discuss some of the arguments surrounding the idea of systemic racism made in a recent article from the Public Discourse.
https://www.thepublicdiscourse.com/2020/09/71461/
As 2020 continues on its strange and tumultuous trajectory, you have likely noticed a conspiracy theory gaining traction among certain conservatives. In this episode, we discuss what the Q-Anon conspiracy is and how the Scriptures critique such conspiratorial musings.
Atlantic article: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/06/qanon-nothing-can-stop-what-is-coming/610567/
World Magazine: https://world.wng.org/2020/08/sign_of_the_times
"Should children sit in church with their parents, or attend children's church?" A listener posed this question in a recent email. In this episode, we discuss how to best involve children in the life and ministry of the church.
Helpful TGC article: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/prioritize-worship-no-childcare/
The book of Ecclesiastes might seem like a bit of a downer, but in reality, it's showing us how and why we ought to enjoy life. In this episode, we explore how Ecclesiastes seeks to give us a right view of pleasure and how this frees us to enjoy things like a good meal, traveling, friendships, music, and art.
We are all going to die. The book of Ecclesiastes reminds us of this often. In this episode, we discuss the wisdom of living with the end in mind and how thinking about death can make life more pleasing and enjoyable.
Featured music:
Fourth of July by Sufjan Stevens
Naked As We Came by Iron & Wine
Bob's grandfather recently passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind an enduring legacy. In this episode, Bob reflects on his grandfather's life - his time as a fighter pilot in WWII, his conversion to faith in Christ, his initiative to start a small church in Murdo, SD, and his example of faithfulness to God and others.
In any relationship, it's always good to ask thoughtful questions that help you gain a better understanding of another's story. In this episode, we go around the table answering two questions about the formative spiritual influences in our lives.
As we continue our conversation about the book 'Reformation Worship,' we look at what principles and ideas we can take from the Reformation and put into practice in modern day worship.
You can buy 'Reformation Worship' here: https://newgrowthpress.com/reformation-worship-liturgies-from-the-past-for-the-present/
It's always good to know and understand our heritage when it comes to worship. Why do we structure our worship gatherings the way we do? Why do we sing together as a congregation? Should we take communion every week? Using the book 'Reformation Worship' by Jonathan Gibson and Mark Earngey as a resource, we spend this episode exploring how the Protestant Reformers thought about the public worship of the Church.
You can buy 'Reformation Worship' here:
https://newgrowthpress.com/reformation-worship-liturgies-from-the-past-for-the-present/
In this episode, we continue our conversation about George Yancey's book "Beyond Racial Gridlock." We discuss some of his more practical ideas about racial reconciliation and what they mean for both white Christians and Christians of color.
Kevin Estep joins us again to talk about the book 'Beyond Racial Gridlock' by George Yancey. Yancey, an African-American sociologist, writes from a Christian perspective and provides more nuance when it comes to issues of race. In this episode, we summarize Yancey's book and discuss some of his ideas.
Check out his book here: https://www.georgeyancey.com/
In this episode, sociologist and Coram Deo elder Kevin Estep joins us to discuss Critical Race Theory. We explore how the gospel frees us to meaningfully engage with this school of thought while rejecting its underlying philosophical assumptions.
In our conversations about race, the term 'white privilege' is being used a lot. Our culture seems to lack a clear consensus about what the phrase actually means, which leads to further polarization. In this episode, we seek to bring some clarity to the confusion by exploring what the Bible has to say about privilege. We also explore the dangers of uncritically adopting this language without careful definition and nuance.
Back in early May, our friend and fellow church leader Darrin Patrick passed away. We devote this episode to remembering Darrin and honoring his life and legacy.
The last few weeks and months have brought many strange and difficult circumstances for pastors and churches to navigate. In this episode, we talk about some of the challenges for pastors in this season.
As we continue thinking about issues of race and justice, Bob sits down for a conversation with Virgil Walker to hear his perspective on racism, injustice, and how the church should engage these issues biblically and theologically.
Racism is sinful and real. And the gospel calls us to repentance and action. Listen in as our friend Brian Key helps us sharpen our awareness and deepen our understanding of racial injustice - biblically, historically, culturally, and personally.
Listen to part 1 here: https://cdomaha.com/wed-convo/2020/6/4/episode-289-race-justice-amp-the-church-with-brian-key-part-1
Racism is sinful and real. And the gospel calls us to repentance and action. Listen in as our friend Brian Key helps us sharpen our awareness and deepen our understanding of racial injustice - biblically, historically, culturally, and personally.
In light of current events, we're recording a special episode of The Wednesday Conversation that will release tomorrow morning rather than today. In this brief episode, Bob explains why we're doing this and what you can expect. Check back tomorrow for a new episode.
In the current coronavirus pandemic, as churches begin to open back up, pastors and church leaders are turning the issue of wearing a mask into a moral choice. In this episode, we discuss why this is problematic and explore why wearing a mask is actually a wisdom issue instead of a moral one.
In a recent article, pastor & author Joe Rigney suggests that modern culture’s emphasis on empathy may be problematic. Instead, he proposes sympathy as the virtue we should strive for. In this episode, we discuss his article and how its observations ring true within the church.
Rigney's article: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/do-you-feel-my-pain
Raise your hand if you’ve been on way too many Zoom calls in the last two months. Now raise your hand if you find yourself exhausted at the end of a day full of Zoom calls. In a recent article, Dr. Curt Thompson argues that this feeling of exhaustion isn't actually all that surprising. In this episode, we discuss Thompson's article and how we are seeing technology fatigue play out in our own lives and the lives of those around us.
Article: https://curtthompsonmd.com/a-body-of-work/
In part 2 of this conversation, we continue to discuss author Edwin Friedman's insights on anxious systems and explore how the coronavirus pandemic has influenced human behavior over the last 8 weeks.
We are well into week seven of the Coronavirus pandemic and these last seven weeks have provided many interesting observations of human behavior in a time of crisis. In this episode, we discuss those observations as well as some of author Edwin Friedman's insights on anxious systems.
In this episode, we continue our conversation from last week as we discuss an insightful article by Dick Keyes that describes sentimentality and how it might be keeping Christians from deeper spiritual growth and mission.
What is sentimentality and how is it a problem within the Church? In this episode, we discuss an insightful article by Dick Keyes that describes sentimentality and how it might be keeping Christians from deeper spiritual growth and mission.
http://www.labri.org/inl/pdf/2009/fall-intlabri2009.pdf
Evangelical Christianity is a powerful social force in America. But it's also had serious credibility problems over the past few years. In this episode, we identify four key problems with evangelicalism and discuss the interesting opportunities they present for renewal in the church.
The topic of spiritual warfare means many different things to Christians. In this episode we unpack this term, leaning heavily on the work of David Powlison to identify what spiritual warfare is and how Christians tend to misunderstand it.
Powlison's article:
https://blog.newgrowthpress.com/the-reality-of-spiritual-warfare/
The Screwtape Letters: https://www.bookwormomaha.com/book/9780060652937 Josh Garrels - "The Resistance" https://joshgarrels.bandcamp.com/track/the-resistance
Ever wondered how to build a strong local church in a post-Christian city? In this special episode, Bob sits down with Boston native Matthew Kruse, pastor and leader of the Seven Mile Road family of churches, to discuss Matt's new book, "What Church Can Be," releasing April 1. Pre-order the book here: amzn.to/2wciuXV
In light of the coronavirus pandemic, the crew came together to record a special episode bringing some wisdom, humor, and perspective to the situation. Please remember to wash your hands thoroughly before listening to this episode.
In a recent article in Christianity Today, author Karen Swallow Prior reflects on her years of pro-life activism and the unsettledness she felt at the 2020 March for Life. In this episode, we discuss both her essay and another recent article tracing the history of the pro-life cause as we consider the question, "Must Pro-Life mean Pro-Trump?"
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2020/february-web-only/must-pro-life-mean-pro-trump-karen-swallow-prior.html
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/way-pro-life-protesters-think/
Assure Women’s Center
https://assureomaha.com/
Among the many books Bob read on sabbatical was the thought-provoking book by Alan Kreider, "The Patient Ferment of the Early Church." In this episode, Bob summarizes the book and we discuss how Kreider's ideas might play out in ministry today.
"The Patient Ferment of the Early Church" https://www.amazon.com/Patient-Ferment-Early-Church-Christianity/dp/0801048494
It's no secret that Bob really likes to read. So we weren't surprised to hear that Bob read a lot of books while on sabbatical. In this episode he narrows it down to his top 3... or 4 or 5, and shares how these books challenged, provoked, and encouraged him.
Seeing Through Cynicism:
https://www.amazon.com/Seeing-Through-Cynicism-Reconsideration-Suspicion/dp/0830833889
The City of God:
https://www.amazon.com/City-God-Saint-Augustine-Hippo/dp/1598563378Rubicon:
https://www.amazon.com/Rubicon-Last-Years-Roman-Republic-ebook/dp/B0012RMVEI
Dominion:
https://www.amazon.com/Dominion-Christian-Revolution-Remade-World/dp/0465093507
The Wednesday Conversation is back! Bob was on a sabbatical for the last three months and in this episode, he shares about what his experience was like. Spoiler alert: it wasn't awesome! Listen in as Bob talks about some of the despair and cynicism he experienced while away and how the Lord met him in the midst of it.
Seeing Through Cynicism by Dick Keyes
Bob’s review of “Seeing Through Cynicism”
The Wednesday Conversation will be back with NEW episodes beginning February 19, 2020! In this episode from 2015, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Scotty Smith to hear about his mentor, C. John Miller... or Jack.
The Wednesday Conversation will be back with NEW episodes beginning February 19, 2020!
In this episode from the archives, we feature a special interview with Dr. Greg Dammann, an orthopedic surgeon and former Coram Deo attender who overcame a prescription drug addiction. Greg and his wife Tammy tell the story of how God met them during one of the darkest chapters of their lives.