RenewalCast

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

About The Guest(s):Robert Rothwell is a writer for Table Talk magazine and works for Ligonier Ministries. He is also an adjunct professor at Reformation Bible College and serves as an associate pastor at Spruce Creek Presbyterian Church.Summary: Robert Rothwell, a writer for Table Talk magazine and associate pastor at Spruce Creek Presbyterian Church, discusses the topic of cessationism. Cessationism is the belief that the miraculous and revelatory gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as tongues and prophecy, ceased with the end of the apostles. Rothwell explains the biblical and theological reasons for holding a cessationist view and addresses common misconceptions about cessationism. Key Takeaways:Cessationism is the belief that the miraculous and revelatory gifts of the Holy Spirit ceased with the end of the apostles.The foundation of cessationism is based on biblical texts such as Ephesians 2 and Hebrews 1, which suggest that the gifts of tongues and prophecy were temporary and ceased after the apostolic era.Cessationism does not deny the work of the Holy Spirit in the world today, but rather emphasizes the sufficiency of Scripture and the ordinary means of grace for the Christian life.

About The Guest(s):David Lovi is a pastor of a small Reform Baptist Church near Chicago.He is involved in the production of the film "Cessationist" which explores the topic of cessationism.Summary:David Lovi discusses the topic of cessationism and the film "Cessationist" that he is involved in. Cessationism is the belief that the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit, such as healing and prophecy, ceased after the apostolic age. The film aims to provide a biblical and theological perspective on this subject.Key Takeaways:Cessationism is the belief that the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit ceased after the apostolic age.The film "Cessationist" explores this topic and provides a biblical and theological perspective.The gifts of healing, tongues, interpretation of tongues, and prophecy were specific to the apostolic age and served the purpose of laying the foundation of the Church.Quotes:"Cessationism is the belief that the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit ceased after the apostolic age." - David Lovi"The gifts of healing, tongues, interpretation of tongues, and prophecy were specific to the apostolic age and served the purpose of laying the foundation of the Church." - David Lovi

About The Guest(s): Dr. Tom Nettles is a retired professor of historical theology at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. He has taught at several seminaries and has written extensively on church history and theology. Summary: Dr. Tom Nettles discusses the Pelagian Controversy and its significance in church history. He explains the theological issues surrounding the nature of sin, human nature, and the role of grace in salvation. Augustine's response to Pelagius and his development of the doctrines of grace are highlighted. The conversation also touches on the influence of Pelagianism in modern theology and the importance of understanding the nature of sin and the need for divine grace. Key Takeaways:Augustine's theological work focused on the nature of sin, human nature, and the role of grace in salvation.Pelagius believed in the perfectibility of human nature and the ability to achieve righteousness through personal effort.Augustine emphasized the fallen nature of humanity and the necessity of divine grace for salvation.The Pelagian Controversy led Augustine to develop a more scriptural and exegetical approach to theology.The influence of Pelagianism can still be seen in modern theology, particularly in the emphasis on human freedom and the rejection of the doctrines of grace.Quotes:"Augustine stands within the history of theology, dealing with the issue of human sin, the nature of saving grace, and how human nature became polluted by sin." - Dr. Tom Nettles"Pelagianism was rejected in 431 at the same council where Nestorianism was rejected, as they were seen as twin errors." - Dr. Tom Nettles"Augustine's engagement with Pelagius is a tremendously important theological step that influenced the Reformation and the development of Protestant theology." - Dr. Tom Nettles

About The Guest(s): Christopher Gordon is a pastor at the Escondido United Reform Church and has been in pastoral ministry for 20 years. He is the author of the New Reformation catechism on human sexuality and has a passion for teaching and preaching on biblical and theological subjects. Summary: In this episode of Renewal Cast, Colt Robinson and Jay Whip interview Christopher Gordon on the topic of Christ-centered preaching. They discuss the importance of preaching that focuses on the person and work of Jesus Christ and how it differs from moralistic preaching. They also explore the hermeneutical principles and theological categories that can help pastors preach Christ more effectively. The conversation emphasizes the need for pastors to understand the law-gospel distinction and to approach the text with a clear understanding of the author's intention. The tone and manner of preaching are also discussed, highlighting the importance of conveying the grace and compassion of Christ to the congregation. Key Takeaways:Christ-centered preaching aims to exposit the text and show the excellencies and beauties of Jesus Christ.Preaching should address the most pressing need of the congregation, which is the forgiveness of sins and the provision of a Savior.The law-gospel distinction is essential for understanding and preaching the Scriptures.Good expository preaching involves understanding the overarching point of the text and developing a sermon that supports and develops that point.The tone and manner of preaching should reflect the grace and compassion of Christ.Quotes:"The aim of preaching is to refresh people in the wonderful Gospel.""Christ-centered preaching can be properly done by dealing with the text on its own terms.""The ministry of the Spirit is a ministry of righteousness, rooted in the love and sacrifice of Christ.""In the Gospel, God is for us, not angrily yelling at us.""The tone and expression of preaching should reflect the gracious words of Jesus."Note: The quotes provided are direct quotes from the transcript.

Digging in the Archives from October 2020 -- such an important discussion and deserves to be released again!! About The Guest(s): Dr. David VanDrunen is the Robert B. Strimple Professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary, California. He has a Master's Divinity degree, a law degree, and a PhD in theological ethics. He has been a pastor and has been teaching at Westminster Seminary for almost 20 years. Dr. VanDrunen has written extensively on Christianity and culture, including the topic of the two kingdoms. Summary: Dr. David VanDrunen discusses the concept of the two kingdoms in Christianity and how it relates to engaging with culture. He explains that the two kingdoms view is not the same as Augustine's two cities paradigm, but they are compatible. The two kingdoms refer to God's rule over the world in two distinct ways: his common rule of creation and preservation, and his redemptive rule through the church. Dr. VanDrunen emphasizes that Christians are called to be involved in various areas of life and to pursue excellence and love of neighbor in all that they do. However, he cautions against trying to transform all aspects of culture according to the pattern of Christ's kingdom, as this can lead to unrealistic expectations and confusion. Instead, he suggests that Christians should focus on serving God by serving their neighbors and maintaining a balanced perspective on the institutions and activities of this world. Key Takeaways:The two kingdoms view promotes a healthy balance between triumphalism and withdrawal from culture.Christians are called to pursue excellence and love of neighbor in all areas of life.The church's mission is primarily focused on preaching, teaching, and shepherding, rather than transforming culture.Pastors should be cautious about making political judgments or imposing specific strategies on their congregations.Christians can be involved in cultural activities and institutions without trying to make them uniquely Christian.Quotes:"We recognize that for Christians, we participate in both of these rules.""We recognize that these things are not the ultimate things, that these things are not where our highest allegiance lies.""We can be in the world, but not of this world.""We're serving other human beings created in God's image, and we're instruments of God in taking care of his creation.""We don't have to make it extraordinarily complicated… we're serving other human beings, and that's a way to show the kind of love that we're supposed to show."

Show Notes:In this episode, we dive into the Morrow controversy and its significance in understanding key gospel truths. Our guest, Stephen Myers, provides us with a comprehensive overview of the controversy, its historical context, and its implications for covenant theology. We explore the book "The Marrow of Modern Divinity" and its authorship, the trial of John Simpson, and the General Assembly's condemnation of the Octaratar creed. Stephen also highlights the five obscured truths brought to light by the controversy and their impact on our understanding of the law, faith, and the gospel. Timestamped Chapter Summary:Introduction to the Morrow controversy (0:00:14)Importance of studying the Morrow controversy (0:00:43)Guest introduction: Stephen Myers (0:01:20)Stephen's background and ministry (0:01:36)Meeting William Van Dudaward in Scotland (0:02:51)What is the Morrow controversy? (0:03:29)Distinguishing between The Marrow of Modern Divinity, the controversy, and its implications (0:04:05)The book "The Marrow of Modern Divinity" and its authorship (0:04:22)The trial of John Simpson and the General Assembly's decision (0:06:12)The Octaratar creed and its purpose (0:07:13)The intention of The Marrow of Modern Divinity (0:08:34)The General Assembly's interpretation of the book (0:08:41)Concerns about legalism and antinomianism (0:08:45)The General Assembly's condemnation of the Octaratar creed (0:08:50)Thomas Boston's recommendation of The Marrow of Modern Divinity (0:09:04)The republishing of The Marrow of Modern Divinity (0:09:14)James Haddo's concerns and the General Assembly's condemnation (0:10:02)The representation and petition by twelve ministers (0:11:44)The General Assembly's response to the representation and petition (0:12:09)The aftermath of the controversy and its impact on covenant theology (0:12:26)The five truths obscured by the controversy (0:13:35)Erskin's assessment of the obscured truths (0:17:02)Clarifying the covenantal entities in Covenant Theology (0:17:09)The movement of salvation through the covenants (0:17:25)Obscure truth: believers are freed from the law as the covenant of works (0:19:05)Obscure truth: believers are freed from the commanding and condemning power of the covenant of works (0:20:00)The role of the law in the Christian life (0:21:07)The difference between the law in the covenant of works and the covenant of grace (0:21:13)The law as a guide to holiness in the covenant of grace (0:21:19)The third use of the law and its instruction in godliness (0:22:08)The plea for eternal life: Christ's righteousness imputed to believers (0:23:21)The controversy over the need to plead repentance and faith (0:24:08)The motivation for holiness in Erskin's understanding (0:24:46)The obscured truth: a fiduciary act or appropriating persuasion in justifying and saving faith (0:25:22)The distinction between assurance of faith and assurance of sense (0:26:04)The assurance of faith as essential to Erskin's understanding (0:26:25)The assurance of sense and its ebb and flow (0:27:18)The fifth obscured truth: the deed of gift or grant made by the Father to all hearers of the gospel (0:28:41)Promiscuous gospel offer and the Council of Peace covenant of works (0:29:46)Haddo's limited gospel offer and the distinction between the covenant of redemption and the covenant of grace (0:30:02)Erskin's free offer of the gospel and the assurance of faith (0:30:52)The accusation of antinomianism and emeraldianism (0:33:22)The rejection of the accusations and the controversy's focus on guilt (0:34:04)Quotable Phrases:"Our minds are to be shaped and renewed by the life-giving and transforming word of God through the power of the Holy Spirit." - Colt Robinson"The Morrow controversy really gets at some critical gospel truth." - Stephen Myers"When you come to the Morrow controversy, you really have to distinguish between three things." - Stephen Myers"The Marrow of Modern Divinity is trying to find the right middle road between legalism and antinomianism." - Stephen Myers"The Octaratar creed aimed to address the legalistic preaching of new ministers." - Stephen Myers"The General Assembly's condemnation of The Marrow of Modern Divinity raised concerns about growing legalism." - Stephen Myers"The Morrow controversy itself is this disagreement really over what the marrow was teaching and whether what it was teaching was sound or not." - Stephen Myers"Believers are completely delivered from the commanding and condemning power of the covenant of works." - Stephen Myers"There's a difference between the way the law works in the covenant of works and the way the law works in the covenant of grace." - Stephen Myers"Pleading Christ's righteousness is all we need for our salvation." - Stephen MyersConclusion: The Morrow controversy holds significant importance in understanding key gospel truths and their impact on covenant theology. Through the detailed exploration of "The Marrow of Modern Divinity," the trial of John Simpson, and the General Assembly's condemnation, we gain insights into the obscured truths brought to light by this controversy. These truths include believers' freedom from the law as the covenant of works, the distinction between the law in the covenant of works and the covenant of grace, the role of the law in the Christian life, the plea for eternal life through Christ's righteousness, and the deed of gift made by the Father to all hearers of the gospel. It is essential to study and understand these truths to deepen our understanding of the gospel and its implications for our lives today. For further reading, Stephen Myers recommends "Christian Walk" by William Van Dudaward and "The Act Concerning the Doctrine of Grace" by the Associate Presbytery. The Morrow controversy continues to shape covenant theology, and its impact can still be seen in theological discussions and debates today.