The Reformanda Initiative

In this episode we discuss Leonardo’s upcoming Vatican File that reviews a book which was recently translated into Italian. The book was written by the Cardinal Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Victor Manuel Fernández, who is number 3 in the Vatican order of magisterial hierarchy. The book was originally published in 2003 in Spanish, but has just recently been made available in Italian. It concerns the doctrine of grace and gives clear insight into the Roman Catholic concept of grace. We discuss how these Roman Catholic concepts of grace differ from how the Bible articulates the doctrine of grace.Support the show

In this episode we discuss the recent Vatican document published by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith regarding Mary (Mater Popoli Fidelis) and her title of "Co-redemptrix". How should evangelicals think through this and respond to it? We also discuss Leonardo’s October Vatican File that concerns recent remarks Pope Leo made concerning Mary, and that are therefore relevant to this discussion.Support the show

In this episode, we discuss Pope Leo XIV’s first Magisterial document, an Apostolic Exhortation titled "Dilexi te," which focuses on the Roman Catholic Church’s mandate to care for the poor. We highlight the theological concerns the document presents for an evangelical reader. We also briefly discuss our recent trip to Istanbul for a conference that commemorated the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed.Support the show

In this engaging discussion, guest Leonardo de Chirico, an author and theologian, dives into his new book, which guides compassionate gospel conversations with Catholics. He highlights the growing trend of young professionals turning to Catholicism and stresses the importance of evangelizing without assumptions. Leonardo offers insights into varying types of Catholics and provides practical tips for meaningful dialogue. He encourages exploring profound human longings as a bridge to Christ, making faith discussions more relatable and effective.

The Jubilee of Youth in Rome aims to connect nearly 1 million young people globally. There’s a discussion on how the Catholic Church appeals to disillusioned evangelicals through social media. Participants engage in events like confession and Mass at Circus Maximus. Digital outreach strategies to recruit influencers for unity and bridge-building are explored. Cardinal Zuppi's homily highlights inclusivity, while others debate the Church's authority and sacramental role. Evangelicals are urged to prepare better responses and clarify gospel differences.

In this episode, we are joined by Reformanda Initiative Fellow Mark Gilbert (Certainty 4 Eternity) about the new book he co-edited with Leonardo, The Nicene Creed: The Nature of Christian Unity and the Meaning of Gospel Words. We discuss his chapter contribution, which unpacks the clause of the Nicene Creed “We believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic church,” noting how Roman Catholics and Evangelicals share these words, but do not share the theological interpretation of them.Support the show

In this episode we (Leonardo and Reid) discuss problematic aspects of the Roman Catholic understanding of the Trinitarian framework, using Leonardo’s chapter in the newly released book “The Nicene Creed: The Nature of Christian Unity and the Meaning of Gospel Words”, of which Leonardo and Reformanda Initiative Fellow Mark Gilbert are editors. This book (and this conversation) coincides  with the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed. The book can be purchased here: https://matthiasmedia.com/collections/latest/products/the-nicene-creed and is available on Kindle.Support the show

In this insightful discussion, Robbie Bellis, a pastor and Reformanda Initiative fellow in Belgium, delves into the implications of Galatians 1 for Roman Catholicism. He explores the serious concerns regarding different gospels and how Catholic teachings on justification differ significantly from the doctrine of justification by faith alone. Robbie highlights the dangers of a 'Christ plus' gospel, critiques the Joint Declaration, and emphasizes the importance of understanding true assurance of salvation. He encourages listeners to engage thoughtfully with Catholic friends about these critical issues.

In this episode Leonardo De Chirico and Reid Karr discuss the first few weeks of Pope Leo XIV’s papacy. What is defining his papacy and where does he seem to be going theologically? More importantly, how can evangelicals be theologically responsible in assessing the pope as he speaks and uses gospel sounding words? Join us to hear how we respond to these questions and others.Support the show

A new pope has emerged, shaking up centuries of tradition. The discussion dives into the implications of electing an American, exploring how this change influences evangelical perspectives and religious dynamics in the U.S. With a focus on Pope Leo XIV's Augustinian identity and administrative skills, the conversation compares him to Francis while considering his appeal to diverse evangelical groups. The complexities of his papacy are unpacked, aiming for a balance between traditional values and modern social issues, urging respectful dialogue among differing faiths.