Theology on the Go

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!

Today, Jonathan and James sit down with Bruce McClellan to discuss his latest book about Samuel Rutherford of Anwoth. Rutherford was an accomplished man—a university scholar, defender of the Reformed faith, and prolific author. But Bruce shares that Rutherford’s first love was preaching the gospel and shepherding the Lord’s people. Courtesy of Reformation Heritage Books, we gave away three copies of Bruce's book. The winners were Len A. from Hoschton, GA, Jai Paul G. from Taylors, SC, and Nicole I. from Harper Woods, MI. Congratulations! Show Notes This podcast has been sponsored by SBTS. Explore which theological degree best fits you at SBTS.EDU/EXPLORE.

Most people are familiar with the well-known hymns “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” and “Joy to the World” by Isaac Watts. But Britt Stokes joins Jonathan and James on the podcast to share how Watts was more than just an accomplished hymn writer―he was a dedicated pastor-scholar pursuing sincere Christian devotion among the people of God. Reformation Heritage Books graciously provided us with a few copies for a giveaway. Congratulations to our winners, Philip N. from Jacksonville, FL, Julian S. from Gainesville, TX, and George Y. from Castle Rock, CO!   Show Notes Britt recommends these books by Isaac Watts: A Guide to Prayer Discourses on the Love of God The World to Come

To the Judicious and Impartial Reader James Renihan is back on the podcast to discuss his latest book with James and Jonathan, To the Judicious and Impartial Reader, an exposition of what is popularly known as the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith. Dr. Renihan shines welcomed light on this important confession of faith that churches around the world have used for almost 350 years and still encourages and guides believers today. Thanks to Founders Press for providing three giveaway copies of Dr. Renihan’s book for our listeners. Congratulations to our winners -- Mona J. from Butler, KY, Aiden M. from Temple, TX, and Michael A. from Covington, KY!

The fear of God is essential to what it means to be a believer, yet there seems to be a modern aversion to this often misunderstood theme. Tune in as James and Jonathan talk to long-time friend Keith Plummer as he shares the security and courage that the fear of the Lord is intended to give to God’s people and how an appropriate fear of God is a delight and will result in a diminished fear of man.  Our friends at Reformation Heritage Books provided two copies of the classic book, Triumphing Over Sinful Fear, by John Flavel for a giveaway. The winners of the drawing are David L. from Arden, NC and Melinda M. from Turlock, CA. Congratulations!

What exactly do the terms Reformed and Reformed theology mean? Defining them is more challenging than it sounds. But in his latest book, Reformed Theology, our very own Jonathan Master has provided an excellent resource for anyone who wants a well-rounded and concise overview of these terms. Tune in as host James and guest Jonathan discuss what makes Reformed theology distinctive and how its specific doctrines apply to everyday life. Our friends at P&R Publishing provided three giveaway copies of Jonathan's book. The winners of the drawing were Todd O. from Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, Craig F. from Aubrey, TX, and Femi O. from Barre, VT.