RenewalCast

About the Guest(s):Michael Brown is an American pastor affiliated with the United Reformed Churches in North America and a missionary based in Milan, Italy. He pastors Chiesa Reformata Filadelfia, where he focuses on expository preaching, administering sacraments, and tending to the congregation. Brown is actively involved in evangelism, outreach, discipleship, and aims to establish the first Reformed and Presbyterian denomination in Italy. Fluent in Italian, he and his wife, along with their 17-year-old son, continue to translate and publish critical theological works to foster understanding and address prevalent societal issues from a biblical perspective.Episode Summary:In this latest edition of Renewalcast, hosts Cole Robinson and Jay Wipf engage in a profound discussion with Pastor Michael Brown, tackling the challenges and nuances of living out Christian faith amid struggles with sexual sin. With Brown's missionary insights from Italy peppering the conversation, listeners can expect an episode rich in theological depth and pastoral compassion.The dialogue delves into the new Reformation catechism on human sexuality, particularly focusing on part four - restoration. The nuanced narrative explores themes such as confession, repentance, mortification of sin, and the transformative power of Christ's obedience. As they unravel the complexities of sin and the grace of redemption, Brown emphasizes the essence of identity in Christ as a pivotal anchor for Christians. The summary encapsulates not only the theological foundation but also the necessity for community and church support, offering a comprehensive guide for anyone grappling with sexual sin while seeking to walk in purity and newness of life.Key Takeaways:Sexual sin, while grave, is a battle like any other sin and doesn't define a Christian's identity, which is securely found in Christ.Confession, repentance, and a godly sorrow that leads back to the Gospel are crucial steps for those struggling with any form of sexual sin.Sanctification is a lifelong process where the Holy Spirit gradually makes believers more like Christ through means such as the word, sacraments, and Christian fellowship.Understanding personal identity in Christ is liberating and pivotal for the Christian life, influencing family, marriage, and community engagements.The church is characterized as a hospital for sinners, where believers must support, not shun, each other in struggles with sin, including sexual immorality.Notable Quotes:"The person who comes in, into the church who is homosexual…we cannot look at that person and say, ooh, gay lesbo…We have to have a posture of humility and compassion towards one another…""Our growth in sanctification really leads us to believe the Gospel more…as one Puritan put it, the pathway to holiness is paved with a good sense of our own wretchedness.""Everyone has a battle against sin, whether we're talking about lust…or we're talking about anger…everyone has a battle to fight because we're not glorified yet."Resources:No specific resources or URLs were mentioned in the transcript.Engage with this enriching conversation fully by listening to the episode and gain clarity and encouragement on your spiritual journey. And, if this episode has piqued your interest, stay tuned to Renewalcast for more episodes that shine a light on scripture's enduring wisdom and its application to modern-day challenges.

About The Guest(s): Jonathan Cruse is a pastor in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and has been serving at an orthodox Presbyterian church for over six years. He is married to Carrie Ann and they have three children. Jonathan is also the author of the book "The Christian's True Identity," which explores what it means to be in Christ.Summary: In this episode of Renewalcast, Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf continue their series on the new Reformation catechism on human sexuality. They are joined by Jonathan Cruse, a pastor in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to discuss the topic of redemption in relation to human sexuality. They emphasize the importance of understanding the doctrine of redemption and how it shapes our understanding of salvation and the Christian life. They address the misconception that sexual sin is not a result of the fall and explain why it is crucial to have a proper understanding of redemption in order to grasp the depths of God's love and the call to obedience. They also discuss the compatibility of sexual sin with the gospel and the need for a correct understanding of Christian liberty. The episode concludes with a discussion on the identity of Christians and the process of sanctification.Key Takeaways:Understanding redemption is essential for grasping the depths of God's love and the call to obedience.Sexual sin is incompatible with the gospel and the new identity we have in Christ.Christians should not identify with their sin but with their union with Christ.Sanctification is a lifelong process that involves the work of the Holy Spirit in conforming us to the image of Christ.The New Testament contains numerous references to being "in Christ," highlighting the importance of our union with Him.Quotes:"We need to understand what salvation is really about. If we don't understand redemption and what has happened to me in redemption, I'm not going to realize the depths of the love that God has for me." - Jonathan Cruse"The gospel is for all of us, not just for them. This is for us to walk through with our families." - Coalt Robinson"Christ has broken the dominion of sexual sin over me. I have a renewed desire to reckon myself dead to my old way of sexual immorality." - Jonathan Cruse"Christ is faithful to me, and I've been called to be faithful to Him. Can I invite something that's incompatible with His call in my life into our relationship?" - Jonathan Cruse"Sanctification is a lifelong process. The Holy Spirit draws us to see Jesus better, to love Him more, and to follow after Him more." - Jonathan Cruse

About The Guest(s): Wes Bredenhof is a pastor at the Free Reform Church of Launceston in Tasmania, Australia. Originally from Canada, he has been serving in ministry for over 20 years and has experience working with indigenous communities. Wes has also been involved in radio programs and has contributed to the development of the New Reformation Catechism.Summary: Wes Bredenhof joins the podcast to discuss the impact of the fall on human sexuality. He explains the concept of pervasive depravity, which means that sin affects every aspect of human existence, including our sexuality. Wes emphasizes that our desires are not the basis of our identity, but rather our identity is found in being created in the image of God and in our union with Christ. He also addresses the issue of unchosen desires and the importance of aligning our desires with the truth of God's Word. Wes highlights the danger of identifying as a gay Christian and emphasizes the need to find our identity in Christ alone. He concludes by reminding listeners of the hope found in the forgiveness and sanctification offered through Jesus Christ.Key Takeaways:Sin is pervasive and affects every aspect of human existence, including our sexuality.Our identity is not based on our desires, but on being created in the image of God and in our union with Christ.Identifying as a gay Christian is contrary to Scripture, as sin and Christ cannot be mixed.God does not permit sinful desires to go unpunished, and there is a just judgment awaiting those who do not repent.The hope for salvation and sanctification is found in Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness and the presence of the Holy Spirit to transform our lives.Quotes:"We have to follow something that has solid ground under it, which is, of course, the word of God.""Our identity isn't in our feelings. Our identity is in Christ.""Regardless of your feelings, you have to go to God's word.""Our identity is in Christ, and we have to keep looking to him.""We have to be that countercultural voice in our day.""There is hope for salvation in Jesus Christ.""For every true Christian, there is change taking place, and we need to be constantly reminded of that and encouraged by that."

About The Guest(s):David VanDrunen is a professor of systematic theology and Christian ethics at Westminster Seminary, California. He has written extensively on Christianity and culture and is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church.Summary: David VanDrunen discusses the importance of understanding creation when discussing human sexuality. He explains that our nature as sexual beings is part of who we are and that the fall has corrupted our sexual desires but not our basic human nature. He emphasizes the need to root discussions of sexuality in issues of creation and the natural order. VanDrunen also addresses the distinction between biological sex and gender, highlighting the importance of recognizing that gender is a choice while biological sex is a natural characteristic. He explains that gender identity that goes against biological sex is unnatural to the creation order. The conversation then turns to the use of language in the discussion of sexuality and the importance of being careful not to co-opt language that supports ideas contrary to biblical teachings. VanDrunen also explores the concept of the image of God and how it relates to discussions of sexuality. He emphasizes that our identity as image bearers of God is defined by God and that sin has damaged the image of God in us. Finally, VanDrunen discusses attending same-sex weddings and the need to be discerning in how we engage with others while still upholding biblical principles.Key Takeaways:Understanding our nature as sexual beings is crucial when discussing human sexuality.Gender is a choice, while biological sex is a natural characteristic.Gender identity that goes against biological sex is unnatural to the creation order.We need to be careful not to co-opt language that supports ideas contrary to biblical teachings.Our identity as image bearers of God is defined by God, and sin has damaged the image of God in us.Attending same-sex weddings should be approached with discernment and a commitment to upholding biblical principles.Quotes:"We don't have a choice whether we're male or female. We don't have a choice about the proper way to express our sexuality. God has made us in a certain way, and it's actually good for us if we live according to the way God made us.""We need to help our children or help people in our churches to see that actually, this is good for us. This is according to the way that God has made us. He hasn't done it to constrict us. He's done it for our good.""We need to resist the kind of co-opting of our language. We need to be careful when we're in real-life, concrete situations. We need to give fellow Christians a fair bit of room for judgment as to how you talk and how you interact with people.""We've been deeply damaged by sin, and we're inclined as sinners to kind of make normative the way we feel, to kind of exalt our own feelings and to presume that those are what's normal, that is what is good. But as fallen sinners, we can't do that. We can't trust our own feelings, can't trust our own thoughts. Sin has deeply affected us, and we're going to have to keep coming back to the Scriptures for God's own definition of who He is and therefore who we are as those who bear His image.""We are created by God as His image bearers. That is part of our identity, and that obviously is really important. But then even more so, even more precious to us now, is that we are redeemed by Christ. We're united to Him, we are justified, adopted, sanctified in Him. And in a way, I think probably the entire Christian life is a process of getting used to that. It's a process of learning how to be that other way, that we're citizens of heaven, we're heirs of a kingdom that cannot be shaken as sinners. That's unnatural for us. It has become sort of unnatural in that kind of sinful nature way. It takes us time to get used to being the people of God, to get used to being the Church of Jesus Christ."

About The Guest(s):The guest(s) for this episode are Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf. They are the hosts of the Renewal Cast podcast.Summary: Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf introduce a new series on human sexuality based on the New Reformation catechism by Chris Gordon. They discuss the importance of addressing this issue in the church and society, as well as the need for a biblical perspective. They emphasize the authority of Scripture and the danger of compromising on biblical truths. They also highlight the role of the church in ministering to those struggling with sexual sins and the importance of hospitality and love in engaging with others. The hosts stress the gospel-centered nature of the conversation and the need for Christians to stand firm in their beliefs, even if it costs them socially or culturally. Key Takeaways:Scripture alone is the ultimate authority for Christians, and it should guide our understanding of human sexuality.Christians should not compromise on biblical truths, even if it goes against cultural norms or popular opinions.The church has a responsibility to minister to those struggling with sexual sins and to offer a gospel-centered message of hope and redemption.Christians should strive to be hospitable and loving towards those with different views on sexuality, while still holding to biblical truths.Quotes:"Scripture alone is our ultimate authority, not popes or church tradition or church councils." - Coalt Robinson"We can't compromise on what God calls sin. It makes us liars." - Coalt Robinson"The purpose and joy of life is knowing Christ and glorifying Him." - Coalt Robinson"The church is a hospital for sinners. We all need Christ." - Jay Wipf"Good works lead to goodwill, that leads to good news." - Coalt Robinson

About The Guest(s): Dan Borvan is the newly installed pastor at Christ Reform Church in Anaheim, California. He is also an adjunct faculty member at Westminster Seminary, California. Dan has a passion for the French Reformation and has dedicated his studies to uncovering the rich theology and history of the French Reform Church. Summary: In this episode of Renewalcast, Colt Robinson interviews Dan Borvan about the French Reformation. The French Reformation is often overlooked in comparison to the Protestant Reformation in Germany and Switzerland. However, it played a significant role in shaping the theology and history of the Reformed tradition. Dan provides an overview of the French Reformation, starting with its origins in the 1520s and the influence of key figures like Nicholas Cop and John Calvin. He discusses the persecution faced by French Protestants, the establishment of churches, and the publication of the French Confession of faith. Dan also highlights the courage and resilience of the French Reformers in the face of intense opposition and persecution. Key Takeaways:The French Reformation was an organic movement that gained momentum in the 1520s and 1530s.The French Reformers faced intense persecution and were labeled as seditious rebels by the Roman Catholic authorities.John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion and the French Confession of faith were influential in shaping the theology of the French Reform Church.The French Wars of Religion in the second half of the 16th century were marked by conflicts between Catholics and Protestants, as well as divisions within the Catholic camp.The St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre in 1572 was a turning point in the French Reformation, leading to widespread persecution and the continuation of the religious civil war.The Edict of Nantes in 1598 provided temporary coexistence between Catholics and Protestants, allowing the French Reform Church to flourish for a few decades before the repeal of the edict in 1685.Quotes:"We must commit as much as we can to stand for the truth, so that when those moments come for us, the Holy Spirit will empower us to stand." - Dan Borvan"Psalm singing was a great offense to the Roman Catholics. It was the original counterculture, anti-establishment, shake your fist at the man kind of music." - Dan Borvan

About The Guest(s): D.G. Hart is a historian and professor of history at Hillsdale College. He has taught at various institutions including Westminster Seminary and Wheaton College. He is also an elder in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and has written several books on history and theology. Summary: D.G. Hart discusses the impact of geography and government on the Reformation. He explains how the political environment influenced the success and spread of the Reformation, highlighting the importance of gaining support from local politicians. He also emphasizes the diversity and regional differences in the Reformation, with each area facing unique challenges and circumstances. The conversation then turns to the concept of a "golden age" in the Reformation. Hart argues against the idea of a golden age, stating that it is a misnomer and that there is always a mix of good and bad in any historical period. He points to specific periods in Reformed history, such as the Synod of Dort and the Westminster Assembly, as examples of high points in Reformed theology. The discussion also touches on the topics of martyrdom, missions, and the ongoing debate between Calvinism and Arminianism. Hart explains how martyrdom and persecution played a role in the spread of the Reformation and the development of religious freedom. He also discusses the adaptability of Calvinism to different cultures and the challenges of the Calvinist-Arminian debate. Lastly, Hart addresses the accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition. He argues that these accusations are often unfounded and that Reformed theology does emphasize the importance of sanctification and good works. Key Takeaways:Geography and government played a significant role in the success and spread of the Reformation.The concept of a "golden age" in the Reformation is a misnomer, as there is always a mix of good and bad in any historical period.Martyrdom and persecution were influential in the spread of the Reformation and the development of religious freedom.Calvinism has been adaptable to different cultures and has played a role in missions.Accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition are often unfounded, as Reformed theology emphasizes sanctification and good works.Quotes:"The political environment in which the Church Reformation started was crucial. If you didn't gain support from your local politician, you could be executed." - D.G. Hart"One of the reasons why I like to study history is there's so much variety. It's hard to generalize." - D.G. Hart"The idea of a golden age for American Presbyterianism was the period of the Old School Presbyterian Church." - D.G. Hart"Martyrdom leads to the ideals of religious freedom and separation of church and state." - D.G. Hart"Calvinism has been adaptable to different cultures and has played a role in missions." - D.G. Hart"Accusations of antinomianism within the Reformed tradition are often unfounded." - D.G. Hart

About The Guest(s): Dr. R. Scott Clark is a pastor, theologian, and professor of church history and historical theology at Westminster Seminary California. He is the president of the Heidelberg Reformation Association and the author of several books on Reformed theology. Summary: Dr. R. Scott Clark joins the Renewal Cast podcast to discuss the fifth main point of doctrine in the Canons of Dort, which is Perseverance of the Saints. He explains that this doctrine is not the same as "once saved, always saved" and emphasizes that it is a pastoral response to the struggles and doubts that believers face in their Christian walk. The discussion covers topics such as the believer's ongoing struggle with sin, the relationship between perseverance and assurance, and the means that God uses to preserve and strengthen His people. Key Takeaways:Perseverance of the Saints means that those whom God has loved from all eternity will never fall away.Believers may struggle with sin and even fall into serious sins, but God will never let them go.Assurance of salvation is not a second blessing, but a part of the Christian's experience that is grounded in the promises of God.The means of grace, such as the preaching of the Word and the sacraments, are instrumental in the believer's perseverance and growth in faith.Quotes:"Jesus will never turn loose of you. Jesus' death is more serious than your serious sins." - Dr. R. Scott Clark"The Christian life is a penitent life, lived by penitent sinners in the grace of God." - Dr. R. Scott Clark"Assurance is the root of humility, respect, godliness, endurance, and joy in God." - Dr. R. Scott Clark

About The Guest(s):Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf are the hosts of the Renewal Cast podcast.Kim Riddlebarger is a guest on the podcast and is a theologian and author. He has a background in pastoral ministry and has taught at Westminster Seminary California.Summary:In this episode of Renewal Cast, Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf continue their series on the Canons of Dort, focusing on the third and fourth main points of doctrine.They are joined by guest Kim Riddlebarger, who provides insights and explanations on the topics of human corruption, conversion, and the role of the Gospel in salvation.The Canons of Dort were written in response to the errors of the Armenians and the Remonstrants, who challenged the Reformed understanding of election and the preaching of the Gospel.The third and fourth heads of doctrine address the nature of human corruption, the inability of humans to save themselves, and the necessity of the Holy Spirit's work in regeneration and conversion.The Canons emphasize the importance of preaching the Gospel as the means through which God calls His elect to faith.The discussion also touches on the relationship between free will and human responsibility, the role of the law in convicting of sin, and the need for thanksgiving in response to God's grace.Key Takeaways:Humans are born with a sinful nature and are unable to save themselves.The Gospel is the only means through which God calls His elect to faith and salvation.Regeneration is a supernatural work of God that precedes faith and enables a person to respond to the Gospel.Faith and repentance are connected but distinct responses to God's grace.The preaching of the Gospel and the sacraments are the primary means through which God works in the lives of His people.Quotes:"The Gospel is the means through which the Holy Spirit takes a person dead in sin and makes them alive." - Kim Riddlebarger"The law exposes the magnitude of our sin and convicts us of our guilt, but it does not offer a remedy or enable us to escape from our misery." - Canons of Dort"The proper response to God's grace is thanksgiving." - Canons of Dort

About The Guest(s): William Boekestein is a pastor at Emmanuel Fellowship Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He is the author of "The Glory of Grace: The Story of the Canons of Dort," a children's book that explains the history and theology of the Canons of Dort. Summary: In this episode, Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf interview William Bookestein about the Canons of Dort, specifically focusing on the second main point of doctrine. The Canons of Dort were written in response to the teachings of the Remonstrants, who promoted a universal atonement. The Reformers, on the other hand, believed in a particular redemption, where Christ's sacrifice is effective for the elect. The Reformers emphasized that Christ's work actually affects salvation, that the Son died for those whom the Father purposed to save, and that Christ atones for definite people. The Canons of Dort also highlight the importance of proclaiming the Gospel to all people and the personal nature of salvation. The episode concludes with a discussion on the effectiveness of Christ's death and the perseverance of the Church. Key Takeaways:Christ's sacrifice is not just a possibility for salvation, but it actually saves sinners.The Son died for those whom the Father purposed to save, emphasizing the harmony between election and salvation.Christ's sacrifice is of infinite worth because of His perfect nature and the punishment He endured.The Gospel should be proclaimed to all people, not limited to a select few.Salvation is a personal and definite act of God's grace, not dependent on human effort.Quotes:"Christ died to justify, sanctify, and glorify all those and those only who are elect." - William Boekestein"The church steadfastly loves and persistently worships." - William Boekestein