Reformed Forum

Dr. Cornelis Van Dam joins us to speak about his book In the Beginning: Listening to Genesis 1 and 2, in which he argues that reading Genesis 1 and 2 as history is not only justified but necessary. Van Dam clarifies the different roles that ancient Near Eastern literature and scientific theories should play in our understanding of the Bible as he carefully deals with the exegetical details of the first two chapters of the Bible. He writes: The focus of this work is therefore not to give an all-around commentary and explanation of every verse in Genesis 1 and 2, but to listen to Scripture in order to find out what God is revealing to us about the historicity of the beginning chapters of Genesis. Concentrating on listening to what Scripture actually says brings with it the realization that the reader of the Word has a relatively modest place. The one who listens to Scripture acknowledges that the Word, not the reader, determines the meaning of the text (p. 9). Dr. Van Dam is an Old Testament scholar, who has served with distinction as a professor of Old Testament at the Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary from 1981 to 2011. He holds degrees from Wilfrid Laurier University, Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary, Knox College at the University of Toronto, and the Theological University of Kampen. Over his career, he has made significant contributions to Old Testament scholarship, with a special focus on the Pentateuch. He is the author of notable works including In the Beginning: Listening to Genesis 1 and 2, The Elder, and The Deacon. These publications reflect his commitment to exploring not merely themes in biblical studies but also their implications for Christian doctrine and practice. Dr. Van Dam was honored in 2011 with a Festschrift titled Living Waters from Ancient Springs: Essays in Honor of Cornelis Van Dam. This volume, featuring contributions from notable scholars such as Hans Boersma and Al Wolters, is a testament to his significant impact on theological scholarship and his enduring legacy in biblical studies.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof's little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We turn to chapter XXI, "Justification."

The podcast explores the unique messianic temptations of Christ and the comparison with Adam's temptation. It delves into the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering Christ and inaugurating the kingdom of God. The discussion connects Christ's temptations to the broader biblical narrative, emphasizing his fulfillment as the obedient Son of God. The hosts also discuss their recent trip to California, upcoming events, and their passion for theology.

Join us on this week's episode as we speak with Fred Greco, pastor of Christ Church in Katy, Texas. He is a trusted authority on parliamentary procedure and church polity and moderator of the PCA's 50th General Assembly. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, alongside his wife, Deb, Fred's academic journey in Classics and History from the University of Buffalo paved the way to a career in law after acquiring his J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School. As a corporate attorney specializing in commercial finance and real estate law in Cleveland, Ohio, Fred's life took an interesting turn when he was ordained as a ruling elder in the PCA, sparking his transition from business to the pulpit. The call to ministry led him and his family to the heart of Texas, where he now serves as the Senior Pastor of Christ Church. In this episode, we'll explore Rev. Greco's rich life experiences, from his expertise in law to his heart for ministry. We'll explore the relationship between his legal training and his ecclesiastical service, and how this unique background informs his understanding of governance within the church.

In this engaging discussion, Robert Arendale, Pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church, dives into Paul's heartfelt prayer in Ephesians 1:15–18. He emphasizes the need for the Spirit's work in opening believers' hearts to the fullness of God. The conversation explores how Paul's model of thankfulness transitions into intercessory prayer, urging listeners to pray for both local and broader church communities. Arendale also unpacks the doctrine of illumination, emphasizing its vital connection to Scripture and the ultimate goal of knowing God more deeply.

We welcome David Schrock to discuss his book, The Royal Priesthood and the Glory of God, in which he presents a biblical theology that explores the theme of priesthood throughout the Bible. The book demonstrates that the concept of priesthood, starting with Adam in the Garden of Eden, is central to understanding God's plan for humanity and the overarching narrative of Scripture. Schrock argues that Adam, as the first priest in the biblical narrative, sets a pattern for priesthood that echoes through the patriarchs and is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This priesthood is not limited to a specific lineage or tribe but is a calling for all of God's people. The book traces the development of this theme through the Old and New Testaments, showing how the priesthood develops from the Levitical priesthood of the Old Testament to the royal priesthood in Christ, fulfilling God's purpose for humanity to serve as mediators of his presence and ministers of his covenant. Schrock's work invites readers to see themselves as part of this royal priesthood, called to serve God and reflect his glory. David S. Schrock is pastor for preaching and theology at Occoquan Bible Church in Woodbridge, Virginia. He is a founding faculty member at Indianapolis Theological Seminary, where he teaches theology. Links davidschrock.com Indianapolis Theological Seminary Christ Over All David Stephen Schrock, A Biblical-Theological Investigation of Christ's Priesthood and Covenant Mediation with Respect to the Extent of the Atonement, 2013.

Jacob expects a conflict with Esau but instead ends up wrestling with an unknown assailant, who can clearly best him at any moment. But when that moment comes, Jacob will not release his hold until he receives a blessing. The content of that blessing points to the God who will not forsake Jacob and will fulfill his covenant promises.

Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Matthew S. Harmon, Professor of New Testament studies at Grace College and Theological Seminary. Camden Bucey engages Dr. Harmon in an exploration of his book, The Servant of the Lord and His Servant People, which explores the theme of servanthood across the biblical canon, offering insightful perspectives on this pervasive and significant motif​​. During the episode, Dr. Harmon surveys several key biblical figures identified as servants of the Lord, including Adam, Moses, Joshua, David, and Jesus. The conversation also touches upon the New Testament, specifically Paul's self-identification with the servant of the Lord described in Isaiah. Dr. Harmon elucidates how Paul, and by extension, the Christian church, embody this servant role through Christ's indwelling, thereby continuing the mission of revealing God's glory to the ends of the earth​​. This episode promises to offer listeners profound insights into the biblical concept of servanthood and its implications for understanding both the Old and New Testaments, as well as its relevance for the Christian life today. Links Rebels and Exiles: A Biblical Theology of Sin and Restoration The Various and Sundry Podcast Biblical Theology Briefing Podcast

Experts in Preterism, Neo-Calvinism, New Testament Use of the Old Testament, and Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion discuss various theological topics including the natural knowledge of God, common grace and worldview diversity, the Dutch Reform Church secession, Karl Barth's theology, and Thomas's trinitarian and sacramental theology.

For our Eighth Annual Christmas Special, Rob and Bob are here to bring you Christmas cheer with our annual Christmas silliness. This year we laugh about Christmas delicacies and the weird things we do at this season of the year ". . . because it's Christm