The Carson Center Podcast

Don Carson explores spiritual rebirth through Jesus's conversation with Nicodemus in John 3, emphasizing the distinction between natural and spiritual birth and God's essential role in salvation.He teaches the following:Spiritual birth and its relationship to natural birthThe importance of connecting expository preaching with broader biblical truthModeling good Bible study and application, rather than just teaching itUnderstanding the semantic range of words in different languagesThe evolution of words in the Bible and their changing meanings over time

Don Carson focuses on Jesus's message to the church in Laodicea and the parable of the 10 virgins in order to illustrate the importance of understanding biblical texts within their historical and cultural context.Carson teaches:How Jesus uses Laodicea's economic symbols to critique spiritual lukewarmnessHow the contextual reading of Scripture is an essential precursor to careful biblical exegesisThe symbolism behind Jesus’s foot-washing and what it means for us today

Every Christian wants to know how to read their Bible well. Don Carson provides foundational principles for rightly handling God's Word and addresses challenges that may arise in biblical interpretation.He teaches:Principles of biblical interpretation that emphasize understanding cultural contextThe importance of using the whole Bible to interpret difficult passagesThe role of the original languages in understanding the ScripturesHow prayer shapes our study of the BibleHow to handle difficulties, using examples about baptism and the kingdom of God

What does it mean to be a faithful and wise servant in God's kingdom? In his lecture on the Olivet Discourse, Don Carson delves into Matthew 24:45–25:46, illustrating how faithfulness and wise stewardship of our God-given talents lead to greater responsibility and joy. He contrasts this with the fate of wicked servants, who will face punishment. Carson highlights the importance of being prepared and using God's gifts wisely as we await Christ's return, living faithfully in the present.

Don Carson continues his lecture on the Olivet Discourse from Matthew 24:29–44, focusing on Jesus's return as the culmination of his reign, which began with his birth and continues through his resurrection and ascension. Drawing from Daniel 7:13–14, Carson highlights the eschatological significance of Jesus's victory over Satan and the signs preceding his return. Given the suddenness and unpredictability of Christ's return, believers must remain vigilant and balanced in their understanding of the second coming.

Don Carson's lecture on the timing and nature of Jesus's second coming explores the tension between belief in an imminent return and the necessity of specific prophetic events preceding it. He critiques dispensationalist interpretations, arguing against the presence of clear signs preceding Christ's return and emphasizing biblical coherence in eschatological understanding. Carson encourages a balanced perspective on the Olivet Discourse that maintains readiness while respecting the biblical context of prophetic fulfillment.

Don Carson continues his teaching from the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24:1–28, expounding on the significant effects of apostasy on the church. Discernment is crucial for churches, as dangerous false prophets deceive many with both overt wickedness and subtle deception. We also need to accurately interpret biblical prophecy and respond to persecution with bold gospel preaching and holiness.

Don Carson, a renowned theologian, delves into the prophetic warnings issued by Jesus in Matthew 24 about the end times. He connects the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70 with the return of Christ, highlighting the inevitability of deception and persecution as signs of the times. Carson encourages Christians to strengthen their faith and prayer life, providing insights into interpreting biblical texts and navigating modern-day challenges. He contrasts the experiences of Western believers with those facing persecution globally, urging vigilance and hope.

Don Carson expounds on 1 John 5:4–21 and our assurance of salvation through faith in Christ. Carson addresses interpretations of John’s writings, particularly the symbolism of water and blood, which affirm Jesus's baptism, death, and divine nature. Emphasizing the importance of grounding our assurance in God's promises, Carson encourages believers to deepen their understanding of Jesus's identity and the transformative power of faith in him alone.

Don Carson teaches on 1 John 4:1–5:4, exploring the themes of truth and love and the importance of spiritual discernment. He encourages Christians to display God's character and nature through loving others and obeying God's commands, and he cautions us to distinguish between genuine spirituality and deceptive spiritual experiences. First John 4:1–3 is a crucial truth test, warning against false prophets and demonstrating the importance of acknowledging Christ's humanity.