

MARSCAST
Mid-America Reformed Seminary
Join the faculty of Mid-America Reformed Seminary as they discuss everything from theology to cultural issues from a Reformed perspective.
*The opinions presented in each episode are those of the individual speaker and do not necessarily represent the views of the Seminary.*
*The opinions presented in each episode are those of the individual speaker and do not necessarily represent the views of the Seminary.*
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 27, 2023 • 21min
185. What Can A Pope Teach Us About Pastoral Care?
In today’s episode, Rev. Paul Ipema takes us through the life and contributions of Pope Gregory the Great, a revered figure in Christian history, painting a vivid picture of Pope Gregory's influential
work, “The Book of Pastoral Rule.” Rev. Ipema discusses how Pope Gregory's words have transcended the centuries and continue to offer invaluable insights to contemporary pastoral caregivers. From the challenges of leadership to the delicate art of guiding and shepherding a diverse congregation, the principles laid out in “The Book of Pastoral Rule” remain as pertinent today as they were during Gregory's time.

Jul 20, 2023 • 14min
184. What Can Church History Teach Us About Pastoral Care?
In today’s episode, Rev. Paul Ipema, Assistant Professor of Ministerial Studies, gives us an overview of the connection between Church history and the practice of ministry today, particularly pastoral care. Teasing a deeper exploration, what he’ll do in this episode is set the stage for the forthcoming episode, centered around Pope Gregory the Great’s transformative influence on pastoral care.

Jul 13, 2023 • 21min
183. Assurance and the Fruit of Salvation
In today’s episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema concludes his series on assurance of salvation by examining the topic of the fruit of salvation and whether it can genuinely be considered a ground for one’s confidence and assurance of salvation. Can the visible evidence of a transformed life, the growth in godliness, and the bearing of spiritual fruit truly provide a firm foundation for one's assurance? Dr. Venema answers this question and more in today’s episode of Round Table.

Jul 6, 2023 • 23min
182. Assurance of Salvation and the Testimony of the Holy Spirit
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema delves into the second ground of assurance of salvation as outlined in the Canons of Dort, exploring the profound concept of the testimony of the Holy Spirit. What is the testimony of the Holy Spirit? How does it manifest in the lives of believers? What scriptural basis supports this doctrine? How does it contribute to our assurance of salvation? Dr. Venema provides insightful answers, clarifying misconceptions and shedding light on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit's testimony.

Jun 29, 2023 • 23min
181. Assurance of Salvation and the Gospel Promises
Welcome back to Mid-America Reformed Seminary's Round Table podcast. After a rejuvenating month-long hiatus, we are thrilled to be back, eager to bring you fresh and inspiring content that will stimulate your minds and nurture your souls. In today's episode, we are excited to introduce a captivating new series on Assurance of Salvation featuring Dr. Cornelis Venema, who will serve as our guide through this captivating exploration of the grounds of assurance. In this inaugural episode, he will delve into the very heart of the matter, focusing on the gospel promises that lay the foundation for our confidence in salvation.

Jun 1, 2023 • 17min
180. Priests, Popes, and Monks
In today's episode, Dr. Alan Strange delves into the world of early Christianity, uncovering the origins of the papacy, the role of the clergy, and the emergence of monasticism. With a wealth of knowledge and deep insights, Dr. Strange takes us on a captivating journey through the early centuries of the Church, shedding light on the foundations that shaped its structure and governance.

6 snips
May 25, 2023 • 16min
179. The Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon
Dr. Alan Strange, a scholar in early Christianity, illuminates the foundational Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon. He discusses the intense theological debates that emerged from these gatherings, focusing on the conflict between Nestorius and Cyril of Alexandria over Christ's dual nature. The podcast reveals how these councils significantly shaped Christological doctrines and the legacy of thinkers like Augustine of Hippo. Strange's insights provide a captivating glimpse into the tumultuous history that influenced the Christian faith.

5 snips
May 18, 2023 • 16min
178. Augustine Part II
Dive into Augustine of Hippo's monumental work, where he navigates the tumult of Rome's downfall in 410 AD. Discover the intriguing distinction between the 'City of God' and the 'City of Man.' Learn how grace and divine predestination reshape our understanding of salvation. Explore the transformative alliance between the Christian church and the Roman Empire that shifted from persecution to acceptance. Dr. Strange provides compelling insights into how Augustine's legacy resonates with today’s church and culture.

May 11, 2023 • 16min
177. Augustine Part I
Dr. Alan Strange, a church historian, dives into the life of Augustine of Hippo, a key figure in early Christian thought. He discusses Augustine's profound influence on concepts of grace, contrasting his views with those of earlier theologians and Reformation figures like Luther and Calvin. Listeners learn about Augustine's intellectual struggles, his transformative conversion experiences, and how his insights shaped Christian theology and ethics. The exploration reveals Augustine as a pivotal thinker bridging ancient philosophy and faith.

May 4, 2023 • 31min
176. Healthcare Chaplaincy
In this episode, Rev. Andrew Compton sits down with Rev. Phil Tjoelker (an alum of Mid-America) to discuss the important role of healthcare chaplaincy. Rev. Tjoelker draws on his experience as a chaplain in various healthcare settings to provide insight into the unique needs and challenges facing patients, families, and healthcare professionals in these contexts.