Jared Wilson, Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and author, and Patrick Schreiner, New Testament scholar and theologian, engage in a lively Q&A at a theological conference. They tackle whether the gospel is political and the nuances of doctrinal disagreements. They offer tips for sharing faith with those unfamiliar with church culture, explore gender dynamics in ministry, and discuss the importance of humility in leadership. The conversation wraps up with reflections on becoming more like Jesus and navigating personal faith journeys.
The podcast emphasizes that doctrinal disagreements within evangelicalism often concern non-essential matters, urging prioritization of core beliefs over secondary distinctions.
When sharing the gospel, personal storytelling is vital for engaging diverse audiences, particularly those unfamiliar with church language or cultural Christians.
Deep dives
Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary's Mission
Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary is dedicated to supporting the church through training ministry leaders and providing free resources. The For the Church Institute offers a variety of free video courses on theological topics such as biblical history, book surveys, and preaching. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of the gospel within the context of local church communities. By promoting educational opportunities, the seminary empowers church members to grow in their faith and contributions to their congregations.
Understanding Doctrinal Disagreements
The podcast highlights the complexity of doctrinal disagreements within evangelicalism, specifically whether they equate to gospel disagreements. Certain church governance models, like elder-led versus congregational, are not seen as essential, suggesting that many disagreements focus on non-essential matters. The discussion emphasizes the importance of major doctrinal truths about God's nature and humanity, positioning them as foundational for the faith. This perspective urges listeners to prioritize core beliefs over secondary distinctions in their faith communities.
Sharing the Gospel with Diverse Audiences
When discussing how to share the gospel with different audiences, the podcast emphasizes the significance of relatability and personal storytelling. For evangelizing those unfamiliar with church language, sharing personal experiences can bridge the gap, inviting inquiry into the gospel narrative. Addressing cultural Christians involves challenging them to see the fullness of Jesus's call beyond mere religious affiliation, urging a deeper commitment. The discussion posits that the compelling nature of personal stories can effectively engage diverse listeners in meaningful conversations about faith.
Navigating Gender Roles in Ministry
The conversation addresses how women can remain faithful to scripture while actively engaging in church ministry, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and recognition of each person's gifts. Both men and women are encouraged to collaborate in the Great Commission within a familial church structure, respecting scriptural distinctions without fear. The dialogue reflects on the importance of self-assessment among church leaders regarding gender roles and ministry involvement. By fostering an environment where women's contributions are valued, churches can demonstrate that God’s plan is inherently good and essential for community flourishing.
Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley recorded live at the For The Church Conference at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary with guests Jared Wilson and Patrick Schreiner to answer questions from the audience.
Questions Covered in This Episode:
Is the gospel political?
Are doctrinal disagreements gospel disagreements?
When sharing the gospel with people who don't have a religious background, what’s a good approach?
How do you best share the gospel with cultural Christians?
How can women remain faithful to scripture while serving in ministry in the church?
How does the cultural climate influence churches in this conversation?
How can I battle pride in ministry?
Why should we become like Jesus today? Why is it good that we will ultimately be conformed to His glory?
What dimension of the gospel do you find encouraging in this season of your life?
Guest Bios:
Jared C. Wilson serves as Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry, Author in Residence, and General Editor, For the Church. He is the author of a number of books, including but not limited to Gospel Wakefulness, The Prodigal Church, The Pastor’s Justification, and Supernatural Power for Everyday People. He also serves as an elder at Liberty Baptist Church. He and Becky have been married for twenty-three years, and they have two daughters: Macy and Grace.