Mere Fidelity

The hosts discuss the tension between rejoicing when reviled and having a good reputation for the sake of the Gospel. They explore challenging passages, the connection between reputation and protecting God's name, and the complexities of moral judgment and reputation in society. They also delve into Paul's advice for slaves and the biblical understanding of defending reputation. Finally, they examine the challenges of contextualization and reputation-building in sharing the Gospel.

Christopher Watkin, author of Biblical Critical Theory, discusses the origins and relevance of critical theory from a theistic perspective. They explore Augustine's influence, the need for a Christian standpoint in critical theory, and the contrasting hermeneutics. The podcast also highlights the concept of human dignity and humility, as well as the role of the Holy Spirit in understanding biblical critical theory.

Can we understand criminal justice Biblically? Criminal justice in America is in need of reform, and attorney Matthew Martens has put his theological mind into a Christian proposal for good reform. In this conversation with Matt, Derek, and Alastair, Martens covers mere sample of issues covered in his book, including coercion, social justice, presumption of innocence, and (this one really gets him going) absolute prosecutorial immunity. Full show notes at www.merefidelity.com. Timestamps: Derek Missed Out [0:00] Matt Gets Excited [1:24] Rooted in Love [5:50] Target Audience [9:58] Just War Theory [12:45] Violence [15:29] Social Justice [19:51] Comparing to Scripture [24:19] Presumption of Innocence [28:16] Accountability and Immunity [37:45] Reciprocal Punishment [47:42]

Occasionally on Mere Fidelity we have taken up difficult passages of Scripture. On this episode we take up an entire book that feels quite difficult: the book of the prophet Zechariah. What do all those oddly specific visions mean? Is Alexander the Great an actual Christ figure? How can you tell the difference between prophetic horizons? With Matt acting as everyman, Andrew asks the sharp questions, and Alastair sorts out the answers. Full show notes at www.merefidelity.com. Timestamps: Anno Biden [0:00] Free Sermon Prep? [1:38] Weird Form… or Weird Content [4:07] Night Vision Context [6:22] Problem Solved? [14:35] More Complicated: Hooray! [18:08] Wait, Which Horizon? 27:48] The Meaning of Prophecy [37:03] Of Normative Accounts of Providence in History [43:02]

The hosts discuss the current situation in the Middle East, navigating identity and conflict, and the generational divide in politics. They explore topics such as anti-Semitism, hate speech, and pursuing peace amidst challenging times and conflicts.

Is questioning your faith a good thing? We need not fear questions. By the grace of God, we have the safety and security to rush headlong into them and find ourselves better for it on the other side. Matt has literally written the book on questions. Derek, Alastair, and special guest Brad East join Full show notes at www.merefidelity.com. Timestamps: Mixed Reviewers [0:00] Ten Years Makes a Difference [3:19] Faith, Doubt, and Wonder [7:48] Church Application [12:25] Good Leading Questions [17:14] Questioning in the Spirit [23:55] Virtue [30:05] Answering with a Question [37:15] Be the Question Man [47:19]

Dr. Kevin Vallier discusses the revival of integralism, exploring its opposition to liberalism. They delve into the church-state relationship, arguments against integralism, and the balance between freedom and punishment for heretics. The conversation expands to political theology and the importance of broadening perspectives.

Dr. Fred Sanders, an expert in evangelical spirituality, joins Derek, Alastair, and Matt to celebrate the 50th anniversary of J.I. Packer's 'Knowing God'. They discuss evangelical spirituality, the doctrine of God, classic hymns, the Keswick movement, and the contemporary literary context of the book.

Since at least the time of the Donatists, the Church has wrestled with how to relate to Christians who are just not that good at being Christians. Should we worship with Christians who are living in sin? Should we baptize, marry, and bury those who only attend church twice a year? Prompted by last episode's discussion of Andrew's new book, Matt, Alastair, and Andrew examine this question from theological, Biblical, and pastoral perspectives. Full show notes at www.merefidelity.com. Timestamps: How do you solve a problem like James Boswell? [0:00] When Fraternal Correction Fail [5:26] Excommunication & the Fringe [9:45] Make Mediocre Christianity Great Again [16:09] Bring Them In [21:13] Different Gifts of Faith [28:14] Sacraments [31:13] What are they coming for? [38:27] Scandal Badminton [42:25] Internal Logic of Forgiveness [45:41]

The podcast discusses the significance of the year 1776 in shaping the post-Christian West, exploring its connections to the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and modern economics. It also explores the role of Protestantism in shaping modern society and discusses the global impact of the American Revolution. Additionally, the podcast delves into the significant period between the First and Second Great Awakening in church history, and explores the parallels between Boswell and Boris Johnson in their writing and lifestyle.