Theology for the Church

Samuel Parkison, Associate Professor and author of The Fountain of Life, brings pastoral and academic experience from the UAE. He unpacks aseity as God’s self-sufficiency and source of being. He explores how aseity grounds other divine attributes, shapes Trinitarian relations, and reframes worship and salvation as gratuitous gifts. Short, theological, and contemplative conversation.

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Michael Seufert (PhD, The Catholic University of America) Pastor of Mission Orthodox Presbeterian Church to disucss the theology of the book of Judges. Together they cover the structure, purpose, main idea, and key themes of the book.ResourcesThe Book of Judges by Barry WebbJudges, Ruth: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Holy Scripture by Daniel BlockJudges: Such a Great Salvation by Dale Ralph DavisRight in Their Own Eyes: The Gospel According to Judges by George Schwab

In this week’s episode, Caleb is joined by David Mathis senior teacher and executive editor of desiringGod.org, pastor at Cities Church (Saint Paul), and adjunct professor for Bethlehem College & Seminary (Minneapolis) to discuss his new book, A Little Theology of Exercise. ResourcesA Little Theology of Exercise by David Mathis​ Embodied Holiness: The Biblical Call to Bodily Care by Lainey Greer​ Be Well: Learning to Steward Your Health by Lainey Greer

In this discussion, Ian Vaillancourt, a seasoned expert in Old Testament studies, dives into the profound themes of the Pentateuch. He explains how these ancient texts narrate God's redemptive story culminating in Christ. Ian highlights Genesis 3:15 as the proto-gospel and underscores the significance of genealogies in tracing the royal line through Judah. He also elaborates on the law as divine instruction for covenant living, connecting ancient practices with their ultimate fulfillment in Christ. Plus, he teases his upcoming work on Old Testament historical books.

Kyle Claunch, a Christian Theology professor, and Michael Carlino, Operations Director at CBMW, delve into gender essentialism, asserting its biblical foundation. They discuss Genesis 1–2, arguing that gender binary is intrinsic to humanity. Michael warns against the dangers of treating gender as accidental, while Kyle emphasizes the importance of correct theological frameworks for pastoral care. They clarify the theological implications of Christ's male humanity and tackle feminist objections, providing resources for further understanding.

In this engaging discussion, John Wilsey, a Professor of Church History and Philosophy at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and author of Religious Freedom: A Conservative Primer, explores the intricate relationship between conservatism and religious liberty. He delves into Tocqueville's concepts of the 'spirit of religion' and 'spirit of liberty,' positing that conservatives are well-suited to uphold America's religious freedoms. Wilsey also emphasizes the importance of tradition, the defined boundaries of freedom, and the role of Christianity in shaping moral limits.

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Alan Thompson (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) head of the New Testament department and senior lecturer in New Testament at Sydney Missionary and Bible College to discuss his new book A Basic Guide to Biblical Theology: Nine Themes That Unite the Old and New Testaments. ResourcesA Basic Guide to Biblical Theology: Nine Themes That Unite the Old and New Testaments by Alan Thompson40 Questions About Biblical Theology Andy Naselli, Oren Martin, and Jason DeRouchieDictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament edited by D.A. Carson, Andy Naselli, Ben Gladd, and Greg BealeNew Dictionary of Biblical Theology: Exploring the Unity Diversity of Scripture edited by D.A. Carson, T.D. Alexander, Brian Rosner, and Graeme GoldsworthyCovenantal and Dispensational Theologies: Four Views on the Continuity of Scripture edited by Richard Lucas and Brent Parker

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Coleman Ford (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) assistant professor of humanities at Texas Baptist College to discuss his new book (coauthored with Shawn Wilhite) Nicaea for Today: Why an Ancient Creed (Still) Matters.ResourcesNicaea for Today: Why an Ancient Creed (Still) Matters by Coleman Ford and Shawn WilhiteThe Nicene Creed: What You Need to Know about the Most Important Creed Ever Written by Kevin DeYoungThe Story of the Trinity: Controversy, Crisis, and the Creation of the Nicene Creed by Bryan Litfin The Nicene Creed: An Introduction by Phillip CaryNicaea and Its Legacy: An Approach to Fourth-Century Trinitarian Theology by Lewis Ayres

In this conversation, Matt Smethurst, lead pastor and author, dives into the influential life of Tim Keller, revealing his profound impact on modern theology. Matt shares how Keller viewed Christ as the centerpiece of Scripture and emphasizes the idolatry that underpins sin. He explores Keller's insights on the two forms of lostness and critiques legalism in urban preaching contexts. Additionally, Matt discusses Keller's unique blending of philosophical and pastoral approaches to suffering, and recommends must-read works for those wanting to dive deeper into Keller's teachings.

Cory Marsh, a New Testament Professor at Southern California Seminary and expert in dispensationalism, joins to explore Romans 11:26 and the future of Israel. He explains the significance of 'All Israel' in God's plan, arguing for a literal interpretation that emphasizes ethnic and national identity. Marsh delves into Israel's temporary stumble during the gentile inclusion and clarifies the mystery of national salvation post-partial hardening. He concludes with the assurance of God's irrevocable promises to Israel, framing an optimistic eschatological view.