Knowing Faith

In this engaging discussion, Samuel Parkison, an associate professor and author, delves into the fascinating concept of the beatific vision—the ultimate joy of seeing God in heaven. He explains why this vision matters to our faith and daily lives. With biblical insights, he explores the transformative nature of beholding God, emphasizing the fullness of joy and knowledge found in divine communion. Parkison also discusses the theological implications of seeing God, referencing historical thinkers like Augustine, making deep theological concepts accessible and relatable.

Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of personhood and the complexities of being created in God's image. Discover how this theology ties into contemporary issues like artificial intelligence and social justice. The speakers engage in humor and personal anecdotes, showcasing the depth of inquiry sparked by children. They discuss the importance of dual aspects of humanity—love and labor—and critique shallow societal solutions while advocating for deeper theological education. Together, they emphasize the significance of community and spiritual growth in understanding our place in the world.

Thomas Kidd, a Research Professor of Church History and prominent author, discusses the Great Awakening, a major religious revival in the 1730s and 40s. He delves into its unexpected influence on the establishment of Ivy League schools like Princeton and Dartmouth, linking these institutions to evangelical movements. Kidd emphasizes the crucial role of theological education during this period and reflects on how these historical connections challenge the modern view of Christianity's relationship with higher learning.

Dive into the intriguing world of Revelation 6-8, where the symbolism of the seven seals and the four horsemen unfolds. Explore the meaning behind the mysterious 144,000 and its ties to God’s promises. Discover how themes of hope and judgment weave through the narrative, illuminating connections to Genesis. The lively discussion also sheds light on the importance of scripture engagement in unraveling the text's deeper meanings, all while emphasizing the significance of worship within God's divine plan.

In this enlightening discussion, Samuel Bierig, Vice President of Undergraduate Studies and Dean at Spurgeon College, shares his insights on commonly overlooked aspects of the Bible. He emphasizes the Bible's divine authorship, encouraging a deeper respect for its transformative power. Bierig challenges the misconception that studying scripture distances one from God, highlighting its role in nurturing a genuine relationship with the divine. His passion for biblical studies shines through as he explains why understanding the Bible is crucial in everyday Christian life.

Discover how to see the Bible as one cohesive narrative instead of a collection of isolated stories. Hear personal journeys of understanding the overarching themes of kingdom and covenant. Learn about a new theological discipleship program designed for high school students to deepen their engagement. Explore the metanarrative of Scripture and the significance of God's love within it. The hosts share a fun analogy, comparing insights about the Bible to childhood video game 'cheat codes' for better comprehension.

Patrick Schreiner, a New Testament expert and author, engages in a thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of the gospel and politics. He asserts that the early Christians' teachings make it clear that political engagement is a vital part of faith. The discussion dives deep into how believers can navigate political theology today, balancing submission to government with the call to uphold spiritual truths. Schreiner's insights challenge listeners to rethink the role of the gospel in contemporary society.

Dive into the rich imagery of Revelation 4, exploring the majestic throne of God and what it signifies about His sovereignty. Discover the chilling yet awe-inspiring symbolism of beasts and their role in divine narratives. Delve into the mystery of the sealed scroll and why only the lamb holds the key to its secrets. Uncover the profound connection between Jesus as the lamb and the lion, reflecting on themes of hope, justice, and encouragement, especially for those facing persecution. This exploration promises both depth and inspiration.

Ronnie Kurtz, Assistant Professor of Theology at Cedarville University and author of "Light Unapproachable," dives into the complex topic of divine incomprehensibility. He explains how God, while ultimately unknowable, accommodates our understanding through accessible language, Scripture, and Christ. Kurtz provides helpful definitions to clarify this concept and discusses its implications for faith and church practices. He encourages listeners to embrace the mystery of God while seeking deeper theological insights.

Dive into the profound concepts of creation and providence. Explore how our creation story shapes cultural trajectories. Discuss the unique role of God as the creator and the implications of the Genesis narrative. The relationship between divine sovereignty and human agency is examined, offering hope amid life's challenges. Light-hearted reflections on autumn traditions blend with serious theological insights, paving the way for a deeper understanding of Scripture's connections from beginning to end.