RenewalCast

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

About The Guest(s): Danny Hyde is a pastor, author, and theologian. He is the pastor of Oceanside United Reformed Church in California and the author of several books on Reformed theology. Summary: In this episode of Renewalcast, the hosts continue their conversation with Danny Hyde about the Canons of Dort. They focus on the first point of doctrine, divine predestination. The hosts discuss the historical and theological background of the Canons of Dort and the arguments made by the Remonstrants. They summarize the 18 articles and nine rejections of the Canons of Dort, highlighting the key points of each. They also discuss the pastoral implications of the doctrine of election and the assurance of salvation. The episode concludes with a discussion of reprobation and the comfort it brings to parents who have lost children. Key Takeaways:The Canons of Dort were a response to the Remonstrants' position that election to salvation was based on God foreseeing some people believing and some people not believing.The Reformed position is that election is based on God's unchangeable purpose and sovereign will, not on foreseen faith.The doctrine of election is meant to bring comfort and assurance to believers, not speculation or despair.The Canons of Dort affirm that the children of believers who die in infancy are with God and have no reason to doubt their election and salvation.Quotes:"Election is the unchangeable purpose of God, whereby before the foundation of the world, He hath, out of mere grace, according to the sovereign good pleasure of his own will, chosen from the whole human race which had fallen through their own fault from their primitive state and rectitude, and sin and destruction a certain number of persons to redemption in Christ." - Canons of Dort"The responsibility lies at the feet of the sinner and God is just allowing them to continue in the sin in which they themselves desire to live in." - Danny Hyde"We believe those children are with God like 100%. I can say that without any shame, without any fear that I'm saying anything beyond scripture." - Danny Hyde

About The Guest(s): Danny Hyde is a pastor at the Oceanside United Reformed Church and a theologian. He has been involved in the United Reformed Churches of North America and has a PhD in Reformation and Post-Reformation Theology. Summary: Danny Hyde joins the Renewal Cast podcast to discuss the Canons of Dort, a series of theological affirmations that were a response to the teachings of James Arminius. The Synod of Dort, held in the early 17th century, brought together theologians, pastors, and politicians to address the theological and political issues of the time. The canons are organized into four points of doctrine: predestination, satisfaction, sin and grace, and perseverance. Danny emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context and the ongoing relevance of these theological debates. Key Takeaways:The Synod of Dort was a gathering of theologians, pastors, and politicians in the early 17th century to address theological and political issues.The Canons of Dort are a response to the teachings of James Arminius and are organized into four points of doctrine.The canons emphasize the importance of understanding the historical context and ongoing relevance of theological debates.Quotes:"We want to acknowledge the shoulders of the men and women that we stand upon." - Danny Hyde"We should be humble enough to acknowledge that other people have dealt with this stuff and we should listen to them." - Danny Hyde

About The Guest(s): Drew Hoekema is the minister of the Christian Reform Church in Platte, South Dakota. He has a Master of Divinity from Westminster Seminary in California and has studied at Calvin Seminary in Michigan. Drew has a deep appreciation for the Belgian Confession and its importance in the Reformed tradition. Summary: Drew Hoekema joins the podcast to discuss the Belgic Confession, a Reformed confession of faith written by Guido Debray. Drew provides background information on Debray and the historical context in which the confession was written. He explains that the Belgic Confession was a response to the persecution of Protestants by the Roman Catholic Church in the Lowlands of Europe. Drew also highlights the structure of the confession, with its focus on theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology. He discusses the use of the term "regeneration" in Article 24, emphasizing that faith produces regeneration and leads to sanctification. Drew also addresses the mention of Anabaptists in the confession, noting that Debray sought to separate the Reformed Church from the radical Anabaptists of the time. He explains that the confession denounces the Anabaptist view of Christ's humanity and rejects the practice of re-baptism. Drew further explores Article 36, which deals with the relationship between the church and the state. He notes that the confession has been updated over time, reflecting changes in Reformed theology and the understanding of church-state relations. Key Takeaways:The Belgic Confession was written by Guido Debray, a former Roman Catholic who converted to Protestantism and faced persecution for his beliefs.The confession was a response to the persecution of Protestants by the Roman Catholic Church in the Lowlands of Europe.The confession is structured around various theological topics, including theology, anthropology, Christology, soteriology, ecclesiology, and eschatology.The confession emphasizes the importance of faith in producing regeneration and leading to sanctification.The confession denounces the Anabaptist view of Christ's humanity and rejects the practice of re-baptism.The confession has been updated over time to reflect changes in Reformed theology and the understanding of church-state relations.

About The Guest(s):William Bookenstein is a pastor at Emmanuel Fellowship Church in West Michigan, specifically in Kalamazoo. He is also the author of a children's introduction to various confessions and catechisms.Summary: Renewalcast is a weekly podcast that focuses on biblical and theological subjects. In this episode, Coalt Robinson and Jay WIpf discuss the Heidelberg Catechism with guest William Bookenstein. The Heidelberg Catechism was written in the 16th century as a guide to the Christian faith for the people of the Palatinate region in Germany. It consists of 129 questions and answers and is structured around the themes of guilt, grace, and gratitude. The catechism emphasizes personal comfort in Christ and covers topics such as the Apostles' Creed, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord's Prayer. Bookenstein recommends additional resources for those interested in studying the Heidelberg Catechism, including his blog series on Corechristianity.com and his children's book, "The Quest for Comfort: The Story of the Heidelberg Catechism." Key Takeaways:The Heidelberg Catechism was written in the 16th century as a guide to the Christian faith for the people of the Palatinate region in Germany.It consists of 129 questions and answers and is structured around the themes of guilt, grace, and gratitude.The catechism emphasizes personal comfort in Christ and covers topics such as the Apostles' Creed, the Ten Commandments, and the Lord's Prayer.The Heidelberg Catechism has stood the test of time and is widely regarded as a pastoral and personal presentation of Christian truth.Quotes:"What is your only comfort in life and in death?" - Heidelberg Catechism"I am not my own, but belong body and soul, in life and in death to my faithful Savior Jesus Christ." - Heidelberg Catechism"True faith is not only a sure knowledge by which I hold as true all that God has revealed to us in his word, but also a wholehearted trust which the Holy Spirit works in me by the gospel." - Heidelberg Catechism