Theology on the Go

One of the central tenets of the Reformed faith, the perseverance of the saints, is not a belief held by all Christians, but it should be, argues Jonathan Master. James and Jonathan sit down to discuss this vital doctrine and what it does – and does not mean. What exactly is the perseverance of the saints? Does it give us license to sit back and rest on our laurels? If not, how do we participate in our growth as believers?  Congratulations to the winners of the classic work, Redemption Accomplished and Applied, by John Murray: John F. from York, PA, Christopher D. from Gulf Breeze, FL, and Josh R. from Mesa, AZ. And thanks to Eerdmans Publishing for generously providing these copies for our listeners. 

Nathan Eshelman, author of I Have a Confession: The What and Why of the Westminster Confession of Faith, joins James and Jonathan on the podcast to discuss the importance of creeds and confessions. Focusing on The Westminster Confession of Faith, Nathan argues that, understood rightly, historic creeds can help us find a church that promotes right thinking about the Bible, encourage unity with truth, protect us from error, and help us proclaim the good news. Congratulations to the winners of a drawing for Nathan’s new book, I Have a Confession, courtesy of Crown and Covenant Publishing: John M. from Ridgetown, Ontario, Jim B. from Overland, MO, and Beck O. from Danville, PA.   Show Notes: Thank you to this month's sponsor Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Explore which theological degree best fits you at SBTS.EDU/EXPLORE.

James and Jonathan sit down with long-time friend and highly esteemed theologian G.K. Beale to discuss his latest book, Union with the Resurrected Christ. Union with Christ is an important theological and practical concept that has received considerable attention in recent years. But not much consideration has been given to this union and its benefits in light of Jesus' resurrection and ascension…until now. Tune in as Dr. Beale shares highlights from the book and explains some important practical applications for everyday Christian living. Thank you Baker Academic for providing two copies of G.K. Beale’s book, Union with the Resurrected Christ for our listeners. The winners of the drawing were Maureen B. from Austin, TX and Joe G. from Orland Park, IL! Show Notes: Thank you to this month's sponsor Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Explore which theological degree best fits you at SBTS.EDU/EXPLORE.

Ryan Anderson, author of When Harry Became Sally and co-author of Tearing Us Apart, discusses the harmful effects of abortion on women and its impact on medicine. They also explore strategies for persuading public opinion on abortion and the importance of embracing human dignity.

What are angels? How are they different from God, and how are they different from humans? How should we think about angels and demons, and how do they impact our lives? James and Jonathan discuss this fascinating and oft-misunderstood topic today in anticipation of the Gap Bible Series seminar at which James will be speaking in October, where he will cover this subject in greater depth.  We are pleased to announce the winners of a copy of C.S. Lewis’ book, The Screwtape Letters. Congratulations to Talib M. from Cleveland, GA and Ed S. from Hudson, MA!   Show Notes To register for the Gap Bible Series seminar in Lancaster, PA, click here: https://www.alliancenet.org/gapcenter

Gary Schnittjer, author of Old Testament Narrative Books: The Israel Story, joins the hosts to discuss the importance of presenting the biblical story with an emphasis on redemption. They also introduce Gary's new book and the 'Scripture Connections' textbook series. The podcast explores the exile and restoration narrative in the book of Ruth and discusses the utility and value of a textbook as a teaching resource.

James and Jonathan sit down with William Varner to discuss his new book about the Apostolic Fathers— Christian writers of the 1st and 2nd centuries who knew or were associated with the New Testament apostles. William argues that there is great value in studying and understanding the writings of Clement, Ignatius, Polycarp, and others. Tune in and find out why.  Register here for the opportunity to win a copy of William Varner’s book, courtesy of our friends at T&T Clark Publishing.

Mack Tomlinson sits down with James and Jonathan to discuss his latest book, The Indomitable Brainerds: The Gospel Legacy of David and John Brainerd’s Mission to the Indians. David Brainerd’s missionary efforts among the Native Americans of colonial North America are legendary, but how many people know that David’s brother John devoted decades of his life to continue this mission? Mack Tomlinson tells the inspiring story of the Brainerd brothers’ unconquerable faith in God and how their relentless mission work accomplished more for Native Americans than any other individual or organization at that time.  Congratulations to Tony W. from Anderson, SC and Timothy G. from St. Clair Shores, MI, the winners of our book giveaway, and thank you Reformation Heritage Books for generously providing them! 

Christopher Wright joins Jonathan and James to discuss his latest book, An Island of Grace: Redeeming Love in the Book of Ruth. This well-loved book of the Bible exemplifies kindness and everyday grace as the residents of the town of Bethlehem care for one another. But it is much more. It is also a picture of the redeeming work of Jesus Christ for all of His people. Christopher explains that drinking deeply from Ruth will be a balm for your soul in this present age. Thank you Crown & Covenant for providing a couple copies of Christopher Wright’s book for our listeners. The winners are Daniel F. from Fairfax, VA and Joanna S. from Rockaway, NJ. Congratulations!  

Decision Making and the Will of God How can we know God’s will for our lives and make responsible decisions? Why does decision-making and discerning the will of God seem so difficult? Jonathan and James tackle a topic that impacts every one of us, whether we’re making big, life-changing decisions or the seemingly less significant choices we face daily.  Banner of Truth provided a few copies of the classic work by John Flavel, The Mystery of Providence, and the winners of the giveaway are Kevin R. from Clayton, NC, June M. from Meadville, PA, and Libby S. from St. Charles, MO. Congratulations!