Renewing Your Mind

In this engaging discussion, Stephen Nichols, President of Reformation Bible College, reveals the life of J. Gresham Machen, a pivotal figure in defending Christian faith. He explores Machen's formative years at Princeton, where his academic brilliance blossomed amidst a cultured upbringing. Nichols highlights Machen's transformation during World War I, shifting from lecturer to purposeful chaplain, and delves into the debates surrounding biblical authorship and interpretations of Jesus. Listeners gain fascinating insights into how Machen's struggles shaped his mission.

The church must choose. Will we compromise our faith to please the world or stand firm on the truth of God’s Word? Today, Stephen Nichols identifies the convictions that drove J. Gresham Machen to write his classic book, Christianity and Liberalism. For your donation of any amount, request J. Gresham Machen’s classic book, Christianity and Liberalism. You’ll also receive Stephen Nichols’ teaching series on DVD, plus lifetime digital access to the messages and study guide: https://gift.renewingyourmind.org/3976/donate Live outside the U.S. and Canada? You can get Christianity and Liberalism as an ebook, plus lifetime digital access to the teaching series and study guide, for a donation of any amount: https://www.renewingyourmind.org/global   Meet Today’s Teacher:   Stephen Nichols is president of Reformation Bible College, chief academic officer for Ligonier Ministries, and a Ligonier Ministries teaching fellow. He is host of the podcasts 5 Minutes in Church History and Open Book.   Meet the Host:   Nathan W. Bingham is vice president of ministry engagement for Ligonier Ministries, executive producer and host of Renewing Your Mind, and host of the Ask Ligonier podcast. Renewing Your Mind is a donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Explore the profound themes of forgiveness as Jesus prays for His mockers during crucifixion. Delve into His priestly intercession and the implications of ignorance for accountability. Reflect on the ridicule He faced and His unwavering obedience to God's plan. Hear the poignant interaction with a condemned thief, highlighting faith and recognition of innocence. Uncover the promise of immediate paradise, offering hope and comfort to believers about eternal life.

Discover the extraordinary life of the prophet Elijah, a fearless voice calling Israel to reject idolatry. Explore his pivotal role in the prophetic legacy, linking him to the Messiah and John the Baptist. Gain insight into the dramatic showdown with the prophets of Baal, showcasing his unwavering faith and God's power. Delve into the harsh realities faced by Old Testament prophets as they upheld God's covenant amidst challenges. This captivating narrative emphasizes divine sovereignty and the importance of scriptural understanding.

This discussion centers around the profound impact of Christ's resurrection on faith and hope amid suffering. It emphasizes the historical significance and witness accounts, painting the resurrection as a guiding light through despair. The conversation even touches on Edgar Allan Poe’s 'The Raven,' exploring themes of grief and the struggle between hope and hopelessness. With insights into viewing suffering through a gospel lens, listeners are encouraged to find comfort and strength, reinforcing the critical nature of hope in the face of life's challenges.

Explore the intriguing question of what lies beyond the grave, blending personal experiences with cultural beliefs. Delve into literary insights and philosophical musings on the struggle between fear and the desire for continuity after death. Discover the comfort found in Jesus' words during distressing times and the emotional turmoil of losing loved ones. Finally, confront the intersection of hope and truth in human suffering, navigating the challenges of false hope while affirming the power of faith.

The discussion delves into the profound differences between dying in faith versus in sin, emphasizing the significance of one's spiritual state. Personal stories highlight the emotional journey of a father grappling with mortality, showcasing faith's power in life's final moments. The importance of maintaining trust in God during suffering is likened to a marathon, illustrating the need for endurance. This exploration underscores how a strong relationship with the Creator can transform the experience of death into one of peace and hope.

Discover the profound insights on suffering, drawing lessons from Job's trials and the overarching sovereignty of God. Explore how human pain can hold divine purpose, reshaping traditional perceptions. Reflect on Peter's recognition of Jesus and the necessity of embracing hardship for spiritual growth. Unearth the significance of Christ's struggles in the Garden of Gethsemane, encouraging faith in the face of illness and death. This journey through trials articulates suffering as a divine calling that can illuminate our lives.

The conversation tackles the heavy yet profound relationship between faith and suffering, particularly in the face of serious illness. Personal stories of loss and grief shed light on the emotional struggles of coping with tragedy. There's an exploration of the vital role of compassion during tough times. The discussion reveals how suffering can carry divine meaning, even when it's hard to understand. Ultimately, hope is emphasized as a crucial element, encouraging listeners to seek strength and support amidst their challenges.

Why did Jesus, the Prince of Peace, speak of division? This discussion delves into the challenging paradox of His mission, emphasizing loyalty to faith even in the face of family conflict. It critiques religious pluralism and highlights the necessity of firm beliefs in an age of relativism. The conversation also addresses the crucial balance between affirmation and denial in faith, stressing that true Christian unity must prioritize love for Christ while standing unwaveringly for established truths.