Life and Books and Everything

In this enlightening discussion, guests Chad Van Dixhoorn, a church historian and Reformed theologian, Blair Smith, a professor known for his work on Augustine, and Mark McDowell, a systematic theology professor, delve into the intricate differences between Protestants and Catholics. They tackle the nuances of the Catholic Mass, the implications of historical doctrines, and how cultural alliances with Catholics can coexist with doctrinal disagreements. Additionally, the panel touches on infant baptism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and offers practical advice for engaging with Catholic friends.

If you haven’t seen the viral clip, go see it right now. In this episode, Kevin talks to Alistair about the preaching clip he didn’t intend to give, he never put online himself, and he never expected to be one of the most well known moments of his ministry. The content from that clip has been combined with two other Jesus encounters in the Gospels and turned into a short book. Listen to Kevin and Alistair talk about that book as well as the Ryder Cup, “retirement,” and reflections on growing older (though Alistair doesn’t look it).

R. Scott Clark, a Professor at Westminster Seminary California and author of a detailed commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism, dives deep into the history and significance of this Reformation gem. He discusses the motives behind its creation in 1563 and the controversies with Lutheran and Catholic doctrines. Clark shares insights on key sections that emphasize comfort in faith, the nature of assurance, and crucial Christological debates. He advocates for the catechism's use in pastoral ministry, highlighting its blend of doctrine and practical care.

What is conservatism? And why does it go hand in hand with religious freedom? How should we think about the American experiment of ordered liberty? Has it failed? It is worth preserving? And what about Christian Nationalism? And while we’re at it, how should Christians assess the Charlie Kirk memorial service? Listen in as Kevin talks to John Wilsey, a history professor at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, about these questions and about John’s new book, Religious Freedom: A Conservative Primer (Eerdmans).

Join historian Allen Guelzo, a renowned expert in American and intellectual history, as he dives into his monumental work, The Golden Thread, alongside host Kevin. They explore the fragility and resilience of Western civilization, emphasizing the importance of cultivating gratitude and memory as moral practices. Guelzo shares insights on Christianity's role in cultural achievements and urges a fresh perspective on past lessons to tackle current challenges. Plus, he offers personal habits to renew our engagement with beauty and deep listening.

If you are looking for a deep dive into the history of early American Presbyterianism, you have come to the right place! Listen in as Kevin talks with pastor, scholar, and writer S.A. Fix—who goes by the name Fix (really he does)—as they talk about the Old Side/New Side controversy, the Adopting Act of 1729, and John Thomson’s Explication of the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Come for the Presbyterianism, and stay for a look at what it means to glorify God and enjoy him forever. Be sure to look for Thomson’s Explication in the next week or two, introduced and edited by Dr. Fix and published by our friends at Westminster Seminary Press.

Collin Hansen, an editorial director at the Keller Center, and Justin Taylor, an editor at Crossway, make a lively return, diving into the excitement of fall football. They creatively weave in technology's role in health journeys, discussing personalized fitness plans and the debate around weight loss drugs. Light-hearted anecdotes about dieting lead into passionate reflections on impactful literature and contemporary theological significance. The duo wraps up with insights on whether society is in decline or revival, emphasizing unity within the Christian community.

The triumvirate comes back together to wrap up another season of LBE. Along with the obligatory sports chatter, the three guys talk at length about the first Midwest Pope (and why they are not Catholics) and about life in middle age (and why they are not too depressed). There are, of course, many book recommendations as well.CHAPTERS0:00 Sponsors1:47 Greeting & Salutations4:10 The Midwestern Scale Of How Are You Doing?5:10 The First Midwestern Pope14:05 Deep Dive Into New Pope Expectations18:20 Why Don’t We Believe In A Pope?28:35 From The Midwest To Midlife32:44 Get A Tattoo And Buy A Motorcycle?35:07 Sponsor Break36:55 More On Midlife & Life As A Parent40:56 Have We Changed In Significant Ways?52:31 Collin’s Reading List57:50 Kevin’s Reading List01:03:01 Justin’s Reading List01:06:59 Summer Sports Report01:08:38 Thank You & Goodbye

Tom Pennington, a pastor and author from Countryside Bible Church, shares his insights on the biblical view of abortion. He discusses the significance of life in the womb and addresses when personhood begins. The conversation tackles contemporary slogans like 'My body, my choice,' offering persuasive counterarguments rooted in scripture. Tom emphasizes the church's historical stance and the need for believers to engage compassionately, especially in complex situations involving rape or incest, all while maintaining a pro-life perspective.

Kevin welcomes his good friend—neighbor, church colleague, and seminary colleague (soon to be boss!)—Blair Smith to the podcast. As a systematic theology professor, Blair’s expertise is on Trinitarian theology, in particular in the crucial fourth and fifth centuries. Listen in as Kevn and Blair look at the theology and the history behind the Council of Nicaea (325) and the Council of Constantinople (381). Yes, there are a lot of names and concepts flying around in the podcast studio with this one, but for good reason. What could be more important than the doctrine of the Trinity, than knowing who God is?CHAPTERS0:00 Sponsors & Intro2:11 Who Is Blair Smith?9:34 Four Degrees & Education Background12:20 Conversation Outline & Begin Nicene Discussion19:38 What Should We Know About The Fatherhood Of God?25:25 Nicene Origins & The Need For Clarity28:40 Sponsor Break30:54 How Does This Help Us Understand The Eternal Son?37:15 Trinity Debates & Subordination Controversy46:59 What Led To The Revision Of The Nicene Creed?54:53 Common Ground & Finding The Right Language57:07 How Does Augustine Fit Into Nicene Orthodoxy?1:01:38 Books From Blair To Consider1:03:42 Why Should We Care About The Doctrine Of The Trinity?BOOKS & EVERYTHINGThe Nicene CreedReformed ConfessionalismOne God Almighty: The Biblical Doctrine of the Triune GodOur Father in Heaven: Rediscovering and Embracing the Fatherhood of GodCROSSWAY | The Nicene CreedDESIRING GOD | What’s The Difference?GREENVILLE SEMINARY | Pastoral TheologyWESTMINSTER SEMINARY | Biblical Languages