Theology for the Church

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Brent Parker (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary), assistant editor of the Southern Baptist Journal of Theology to discuss the Israel-Christ-Church relationship in biblical theology. ResourcesA Biblical and Theological Perspective of National Israel by Brent ParkerChrist Jesus, the True Israel: Progressive Covenantalism on Israel, Christ, and the Church by Brent ParkerCovenantal and Dispensational Theologies: Four Views on the Continuity of Scripture by Brent Parker and Richard LucasProgressive Covenantalism: Charting a Course between Dispensational and Covenantal Theologies edited by Stephen Wellum and Brent Parker

In this week’s episode, Caleb is joined by Joshua Greever (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) Associate Dean of Seminary Programs & Associate Professor of New Testament, to discuss the new covenant in Christ from a progressive covenantalist perspective. Together, they unpack the key points of the new covenant and how it fits in the larger storyline of Scripture.The New Covenant by Joshua GreeverThe Nature of the New Covenant: A Case Study in Ephesians 2:11-22 by Joshua GreeverAn Arc of the Covenants: Tracing How the Bible’s Storyline Climaxes in Christ by Jason DeRouchieCovenant and God's Purpose for the World by Thomas SchreinerKingdom through Covenant: A Biblical-Theological Understanding of the Covenants by Stephen Wellum and Peter GentryGod's Kingdom through God's Covenants: A Concise Biblical Theology by Stephen Wellum and Peter GentryChrist from Beginning to End: How the Full Story of Scripture Reveals the Full Glory of Christ by Stephen Wellum and Trent HunterProgressive Covenantalism: Charting a Course between Dispensational and Covenantal Theologies edited by Stephen Wellum and Brent Parker

In this week’s episode, Caleb is joined by Stephen Wellum (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) Professor of Christian Theology at Southern Seminary and Editor of The Southern Baptist Journal of Theology, to discuss God’s covenant with David from a progressive covenantalist perspective. Together, they unpack the key points of the Davidic covenant and how it fits in the larger storyline of Scripture.ResourcesThe Davidic Covenant by Jason DeRouchieAn Arc of the Covenants: Tracing How the Bible’s Storyline Climaxes in Christ by Jason DeRouchieCovenant and God's Purpose for the World by Thomas SchreinerKingdom through Covenant: A Biblical-Theological Understanding of the Covenants by Stephen Wellum and Peter GentryGod's Kingdom through God's Covenants: A Concise Biblical Theology by Stephen Wellum and Peter GentryChrist from Beginning to End: How the Full Story of Scripture Reveals the Full Glory of Christ by Stephen Wellum and Trent HunterChrist-Centered Biblical Theology: Hermeneutical Foundations and Principles by Graeme Goldsworthy

David Schrock, Pastor of Preaching and Theology at Occoquan Bible Church and an adjunct professor, delves into the Levitical Covenant's vital role in biblical theology. He highlights its foundational significance in the Old Testament and how it paves the way for the New Covenant through Christ. The conversation explores the interconnectedness of the priestly and royal roles, emphasizing believers' collective responsibility in church life akin to Old Testament priests. Listeners gain insight into the implications for modern Christian practices and pastoral leadership.

Thomas Schreiner, Associate Dean and Professor at Southern Seminary, dives into the Mosaic Covenant from a progressive covenantalist perspective. He sheds light on how this covenant connects with previous biblical ones, emphasizing grace and holiness. The conversation highlights the Old Covenant's relevance today, especially regarding the Ten Commandments and their moral implications for Christians. Schreiner also discusses salvation's true basis in faith, contrasting it with human achievement, while underscoring Jesus' role as the fulfillment of God's promises.

Jason DeRouchie, a Research Professor at Midwestern Seminary, delves into the Abrahamic Covenant and its influence on Christian theology. He highlights how this covenant transforms curses into blessings and connects to the New Covenant through Jesus. The conversation on Abraham's faith, the significance of circumcision, and the promise of land and offspring reveals deep theological insights. DeRouchie also discusses the shift from physical circumcision to the spiritual act of baptism, emphasizing faith as the key to experiencing God's promises.

Michael Carlino, a PhD candidate and Operations Director for the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood, dives into the significance of the Noahic Covenant. He explores its connection to the Creation Covenant and how it frames God’s redemptive plan. The discussion highlights the rainbow as a symbol of divine mercy, contrasting its original meaning with modern interpretations. Carlino also emphasizes the relationship between sin, judgment, and grace, showing how these themes influence understanding of future covenants and God’s ultimate purpose.

Richard Lucas, Pastor of Teaching and Reaching at First Baptist Jacksonville and a PhD holder, dives deep into God’s covenant with creation. He contrasts progressive covenantalism with dispensationalism, emphasizing how creation serves as a foundation for biblical understanding. The discussion highlights Adam's significant role within these covenants and the theological implications of the Covenant of Works. Lucas also explores how covenant relationships shape our understanding of salvation history, culminating in Christ's redemptive promise.

In this engaging conversation, Peter Gentry, a distinguished Old Testament scholar, dives into the significance of covenants in the Bible. He contrasts ancient Near Eastern covenants with modern contracts, emphasizing their relational depth over mere transactions. Gentry explores loyalty, illustrated through Hebrew literature, and highlights how God's character embodies faithfulness. The discussion frames biblical covenants as the backbone of Scripture, essential for understanding humanity's divine relationship and redemption narrative.

Join Stephen Dempster, an esteemed Old Testament theologian, as he unpacks the rich tapestry of the Kingdom of God in Scripture. He explores how God's kingship unfolds from Genesis to Revelation, illuminating themes of creation, fall, and redemption. The conversation delves into the interplay between present realities and future hopes, contrasting the Old and New Covenants. Dempster emphasizes the transformative role of Jesus and the Church's mission to embody God's reign through love and service, offering a hopeful vision for individuals and society.