The Broken Wharfe Podcast

In this second part of our series on C. H. Spurgeon, host John Mark is joined again by Dr. Brandon Rhea to explore the major controversies, trials, and enduring legacy of the “Prince of Preachers.” Building on the previous discussion of Spurgeon’s life and theology of the Sabbath, Dr. Rhea surveys the defining battles Spurgeon faced—hypercalvinism, slavery, baptismal regeneration, sabbatarianism, and the infamous Downgrade Controversy.Dr. Rhea explains how Spurgeon’s unwavering convictions about the authority of Scripture, the exclusivity of Christ, and the necessity of doctrinal integrity often came at great personal cost—fractured friendships, public censure, physical illness, and emotional strain. Yet, through suffering, Spurgeon held fast to the truth, refusing to compromise for the sake of pragmatism or popularity. The conversation draws out enduring lessons for today’s church on the need for confessional clarity, the costliness of faithfulness, the centrality of sound doctrine in interchurch fellowship, and the hope believers have in Christ amid trials.Brandon Rhea is author of Spurgeon’s Forgotten Sabbatarianism: The Fourth Commandment in the Life and Theology of the Prince of Preachers—available at [brokenwharfe.com/bookshop].00:00 Welcome & Introduction 00:52 Recap of Part One & Episode Overview 02:00 Spurgeon’s Major Controversies 07:59 Slavery & Public Backlash 10:08 Baptismal Regeneration Dispute 12:25 Sabbath Controversies in Scotland 15:20 The Downgrade Controversy 20:45 Doctrinal Clarity in Church Partnerships 27:01 The Cost of Standing for Truth 32:55 Spurgeon’s Theology of Suffering 37:53 Susannah Spurgeon’s Suffering & Support 40:38 Lessons for the Church TodaySend us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the Broken Wharfe Podcast, host John Mark is joined by Dr. Brandon Rhea to discuss C. H. Spurgeon's life, ministry, and theology of the Sabbath. Dr. Rhea, a pastor and scholar, shares insights into Spurgeon's Victorian context, confessional theology, personal life, and ministry challenges. He delves into Spurgeon's emphasis on the Christian Sabbath, his strong convictions about God's law, and his dedication to a high doctrine of Christian worship on the Sabbath Day. The conversation also touches upon contemporary lessons from Spurgeon's ministry, highlighting the importance of maintaining doctrinal clarity, the need for corporate worship, confessions of faith and faithfulness to Jesus Christ despite the many temptations to prioritize pragmatic success over obedience to the Lord.Brandon Rhea is author of "Spurgeon's Forgotten Sabbatarianism: The Fourth Commandment in the Life and Theology of the Prince of Preachers" - available on sale today !00:00 Welcome to the Broken Wharfe Podcast00:42 Introducing Dr. Brandon Rhea01:56 Dr. Rhea's Journey with Spurgeon07:36 Spurgeon's Victorian Context15:56 Spurgeon's Theology of the Sabbath21:15 Spurgeon's Commitment to Sound Doctrine30:20 The Importance of Gathering for Worship36:25 Spurgeon's Conversion Story39:16 Reflections on Worship During COVID42:25 Closing Thoughts and Next Episode PreviewSend us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode of the Broken Wharfe Podcast, John Mark is joined by Texas pastors Aaron Wright and Wilson Marsh. They discuss Christian liberty as outlined in chapter 21 of the Baptist Confession of Faith. Their discussion covers its implications for worship, the limitations imposed by man-made doctrines, and the freedom believers have under God's law. They emphasize the difference between moral and positive law, the proper observance of the Christian Sabbath, and the importance of adhering to scriptural commands while avoiding legalism. The episode also addresses practical concerns such as alcohol consumption, balancing Christian freedom with sensitivity towards individuals with weaker consciences, and the pivotal role of doctrines and confessions in guiding church practices.Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

Christian Liberty & The Second London Confession: Insights with Aaron Wright & Wilson Marsh | The Broken Wharfe PodcastIn this episode, John Mark delves into the doctrine of Christian Liberty as framed in Chapter 21 of the Second London Confession with special guests, Aaron Wright and Wilson Marsh. They explore misconceptions around Christian liberty, particularly the focus on trivial liberties versus the more profound freedom from sin and the dominion of Satan that Christ has purchased for believers. The conversation touches on the differences in Christian liberty experienced under the Old and New Covenants and addresses common issues faced by believers today. Additionally, both guests share prayer requests regarding their respective church ministries in Houston and Wichita Falls, emphasizing gospel work and church growth. This episode offers a deep dive into the core essence of Christian liberty and its significance in the life of a believer.00:00 Introduction to Christian Liberty00:53 Welcome to the Broken Wharfe Podcast01:08 Meet the Guests: Aaron Wright and Wilson Marsh01:27 Aaron Wright's Background and Ministry03:15 Wilson Marsh's Background and Ministry05:32 The State of Reformed Churches in Texas07:30 Understanding Texas: Culture and Geography10:33 Discussion on Christian Liberty23:28 Understanding Christian Liberty23:52 Roman Catholic Influence in New Orleans25:09 The Doctrine of Peace with God26:50 Living According to Doctrine28:00 Evangelical Perspectives on Liberty31:52 The Role of Good Works in Salvation34:09 Access to God Through Christ36:57 Children's Books and Theological Concepts41:15 Prayer Requests and Church Updates45:15 Final Thoughts and FarewellSend us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

Join Oliver Allmand-Smith, a teacher at Trinity Grace Church, as he dives into the intricacies of the Covenant of Works. He explores its profound implications for humanity's relationship with God, highlighting Adam's headship and the stark contrasts between grace and covenant. The conversation expands to the roles of angels and the significance of original sin versus Christ's obedience. Rich historical insights and theological reflections make this discussion essential for anyone seeking to understand Reformed theology today.

Listen in to this segment on the foundation of the doctrine of divine impassibility - from the audiobook edition of "God without Passions: The Majesty of God's Unshakeable Perfection". To listen to the audiobook, you can view it on Audible or view the Print Edition.Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode, Austin Walker joins the show to discuss his new book on the life and theology of Robert Hall Jr. Walker shows the anti-confessionalism of Hall and how his legacy stretches as far as today, foreshadowing many of the ideas prominent in modern evangelicalism. To learn more about the 18th Century Baptists, the impact of Romanticism on the health of the churches in this era, and many other issues - tune into this episode!Austin Walker's book is available at brokenwharfe.com/bookshop/Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

James Renihan joins the show to mark the new 20th Anniversary Edition of 'Covenant Theology from Adam to Christ', featuring the writings of Nehemiah Coxe and John Owen. Doc Renihan provides a detailed biography of Nehemiah Coxe and explores the historical and theological significance of his work. Topics include the importance of covenant theology, the interplay between biblical and systematic theology, and how Coxe's writings offer a corrective to certain theological trends. The episode also touches on the relevance of understanding covenants within the broader scope of reformed and particular Baptist traditions. Tune in for a deep dive into covenant theology and its implications for contemporary faith and practice.Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode, Oliver Allmand-Smith returns to give a thoughtful critique of the legacy of John Bunyan, its impact on present-day evangelicalism and the importance of confessionalism. The way Bunyan's strengths led to his weaknesses is explored, alongside his weak view of Baptism and Church Membership, and his hyper-individualistic approach to the Christian life. Oliver and John-Mark stress the importance of understanding Bunyan in his own historical context, before closing with a re-emphasis of the admirable qualities of John Bunyan.Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!

In this episode, Oliver Allmand-Smith joins the show to discuss the life and legacy of John Bunyan. They explore Bunyan's early life, his exposure to Puritan preaching during the English Civil War, and his profound spiritual journey detailed in his autobiography 'Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners.' The podcast delves into Bunyan's religious convictions, his resistance to formalism, and his imprisonment for unlicensed preaching. They also reflect on the personal and historical context that shaped Bunyan's theological perspectives and his lasting influence, highlighting the enduring importance of his steadfast commitment to genuine faith and assurance in Christ.Send us a textContact Broken Wharfe Tweet us @Brokenwharfe Find us on Facebook at BrokenWharfe Follow us on Instagram at BrokenWharfe Email us at info@brokenwharfe.com Thanks for listening!