Reformed Forum

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We continue our discussion of chapter XXV, “The Word of God and the Sacraments in General.” In this episode, we mostly talk about the nature of a sacrament as a means of grace.

Something significant is missing in Genesis 34 as we read one of the most shocking stories of Scripture. How do you preach Christ in a text where a violent act is met with severe retribution? Are Jacob’s sons exercising just judgment or personal revenge? Does this episode parallel the later conquest of Canaan? We seek to answer these questions and show how the ravages of sin can be undone; how the unclean can be made clean. There is good news for the Christian in this dreadful story.

Join us as we discuss the four divisions of revelation by Christ beginning on p. 344 in Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. We will unpack Vos’s comprehensive categorization of revelation by Christ, which he divides into four distinct yet interconnected periods: Natural or General Revelation: Extending from creation and continuing indefinitely, revealing God’s nature and attributes through the world around us. Old Testament Revelation: Spanning from the entrance of sin to the incarnation, highlighting God’s redemptive plan through the history and prophecy of the Old Testament. Revelation during Christ’s Earthly Ministry: Covering his life, teaching, miracles, death, resurrection, and ascension, manifesting the fullness of God in human form. Revelation through His Chosen Servants: Extending from Christ’s ascension to the death of the last apostle, communicated through the inspired writings and teachings of his disciples under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We explore how these revelations unfold in a linear, biblical-theological manner, emphasizing Christ’s activity before and after the incarnation. We discuss the significance of natural revelation, the pivotal moments of Old Testament prophecy, the profound truths revealed during Christ’s ministry, and the ongoing impact of apostolic teaching. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the coherence and unity of God’s redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture. We also reflect on the continuing relevance of these revelations for the church today and how they inform our worship, theology, and daily living.

Paul calls upon his readers to remember five realities of their former life: separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers to the covenants, having no hope, and without God. But the glorious good news is “BUT NOW in Christ Jesus” those who were far off have been brought near. Jesus, through his death and resurrection, has reconciled the repentant sinner to God, so that he is no longer a stranger, but a member of God’s household.

In this episode, Camden Bucey connects with Jim Cassidy, pastor of South Austin OPC and president of the Reformed Forum board, to discuss global theological education and Reformed missions. Dr. Cassidy shares insights from his recent trip to the Philippines, where he taught Reformed theology to village pastors and engaged with local congregations deeply committed to confessional Reformed theology. The conversation highlights the vibrant yet challenging landscape of Reformed education in the Philippines. Dr. Cassidy details his work with Heidelberg Seminary and the Pearl of the Orient Covenant Reformed Church, emphasizing the growing hunger for robust theological training in a predominantly Roman Catholic country. The episode underscores the vital role of Reformed Forum’s online resources, which provide accessible, high-quality theological education to students worldwide. Join us as we explore the current state of Reformed missions, the unique challenges faced by international churches, and the strategic importance of theological education in cultivating a mature, self-sustaining global Reformed community. This episode is a compelling look at how God is using modern technology and faithful teaching to spread the gospel and strengthen the global church. Listen in for a thoughtful discussion on the future of Reformed education, the impact of Reformed Forum’s resources, and the ongoing mission to equip believers worldwide with sound doctrine. 00:07 Introduction 04:57 The Reformed Labors in Philippines 14:52 The Need for an Established On-Site Seminary 22:18 The History of Reformed Missions in Philippines 28:10 Ministerial Training and Church Planting 37:29 International Awareness of Theological Issues 39:47 Providing Resources to People Hungry for Reformed Theology 49:34 Conclusion This is Christ the Center episode 861 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc861)

In this episode, we approach the critical topic of Reformed global theological education and discipleship. Join us as we explore the unique challenges and incredible opportunities present in various regions around the world, including Hungary, Latvia, Germany, Moldova, and beyond. We’ll hear insights from Reformed pastors and missionaries, who share their experiences and perspectives on the cultural, linguistic, and practical aspects of providing robust theological training in diverse contexts. Tune in for a compelling discussion that not only highlights the needs but also presents actionable steps and opportunities for making a significant impact in the global Reformed community. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone passionate about theological education, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for contributing to the advancement of Reformed theology worldwide. 00:00:06 Introduction 00:01:44 An Update on Global Theological Education 00:04:31 Recent Travel for Reformed Forum 00:07:33 Summary of Conversations with Pastors and Missionaries 00:24:14 Supporting Global Theological Education 00:30:45 Paul Sanduleac, Moldova 00:37:07 Raul Profire, Romania 00:42:29 Jaroslav, Belarus 00:48:26 Artis Celmins, Latvia 00:53:49 Imre Szöke, Hungary 01:02:47 Peter Szabo, Hungary 01:03:40 Andreas Repp, Germany 01:13:56 Jonathan Master of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary 01:33:09 Joshua Gielow of TruthXchange 01:39:13 Conclusion This is Christ the Center episode 860 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc860)

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We begin a discussion of chapter XXV, “The Word of God and the Sacraments in General." In this episode, we start to talk about the means of grace.

In Church Membership, Jonathan Landry Cruse emphasizes the biblical and theological necessity of formal church membership. Cruse argues that church membership is not merely a social or optional commitment but a vital and commanded aspect of Christian discipleship. The book contends that being a member of a local church is essential for spiritual growth, accountability, and fulfilling God’s design for communal worship and service. Jonathan Landry Cruse is pastor of Community Presbyterian Church (Orthodox Presbyterian Church) in Kalamazoo, Michigan. In his writing, Cruse aims to make complex theological concepts accessible to a broader audience. His works often address foundational elements of church life, including worship, preaching, and the sacraments, underscoring the importance of church membership and community.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We continue our discussion of chapter XXIV, “The Government and Power of the Church.” In this episode, we talk about church power. What kind of church power or authority does the church of Jesus Christ have?

In chapter five of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology (p. 343ff), the focus is on the various aspects of Jesus’ revelation during His public ministry. Vos argues that the revelation mediated by Jesus is often mistakenly confined to his earthly life, ignoring his pre-existence and post-existence, both of which are integral to the comprehensive scheme of divine revelation.  Vos outlines that Jesus’ earthly revelation functioned within a specific framework, implying limitations that did not exist in his pre-existent and post-existent states. These limitations were not due to any inadequacy in Jesus’ knowledge or power but were part of a divine scheme that required a progressive unfolding of revelation. Vos emphasizes that Jesus did not intend to reveal the entire volume of divine truth during his earthly ministry but functioned as a pivotal link within the continuum of revelation that includes both the Old and New Testaments.