Theology for the Church

Kim Riddlebarger, a retired systematic theology professor and author of A Case for Amillennialism, dives deep into the amillennial perspective. He discusses why eschatology matters personally and how it shapes our understanding of hope. Kim provides a compelling overview of key end-time events, debates postmillennialism, and explores the kingdom of God as linked to the church. He clarifies misconceptions about the rapture and tribulation while addressing the nature of Satan's binding. A thoughtful conversation on the nuances of Reformed eschatology!

Jim Hamilton, Senior Pastor of Kenwood Baptist Church and a professor of Biblical Theology, explores the nuances of Historic Premillennialism. He discusses the significance of Revelation 20 and the two resurrections presented in the New Testament. Hamilton connects Old Testament prophecies to premillennial views, emphasizing the timeline of tribulation, Christ's return, and the new creation. He addresses interpretative challenges and highlights the relationship between Israel and the Church, along with the symbolic nature of biblical timelines.

Sam Waldron, President of Covenant Baptist Theological Seminary and an expert in systematic theology, dives into the fascinating world of eschatology. He discusses essential doctrines like Christ's return, resurrection, and final judgment, contrasting various views such as dispensational premillennialism and historic premillennialism. Waldron illuminates amillennialism's symbolic interpretation of Revelation 20 and provides insight into postmillennial optimism. He also explores the historical development of these schools of thought and presents interpretive principles for evaluating eschatological views.

In this engaging discussion, Bobby Jamieson, a Senior Pastor and New Testament scholar, explores the profound insights of Ecclesiastes. He emphasizes why this biblical book shouldn't be ignored, highlighting its core thesis that 'everything is never enough.' Bobby skillfully outlines its complex structure and the three-floor metaphor, adding depth to its themes of joy, absurdity, and the Christian longing for ultimate fulfillment in God. He also provides resources for deeper exploration, making Ecclesiastes relevant for modern believers.

In this episdoe, Caleb is joined by Richard Pratt Jr. (ThD, Harvard University) president of Third Millennium Ministries, to discuss the book of Joshua. Together they explore the structure, main idea, purpose, key themes, and gospel connections in Joshua.ResourcesJoshua by Richard Pratt Jr.Knowing the Bible: Joshua by Trent HunterJoshua: Strong and Courageous by John CurridJoshua: Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary  by David Firth

Randy Johnson, Wisdom Head at Scholé Christian Tradition and PhD from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses the fascinating link between classical Christology and compatibilism. He explains how understanding Christ’s incarnation and atonement is pivotal to reconciling freedom with determinism. The conversation ventures into how Jesus' dual nature aligns free agency with divine providence, exploring crucial doctrines. Additionally, Johnson highlights the implications of this compatibilist perspective for biblical theology, making a compelling case for its significance.

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 engaging discussion, Joshua Greever, a New Testament expert specializing in the new covenant, reveals the transformative shift from the old to the new covenant, emphasizing its promise of internalized law and forgiveness. He explores how this covenant fulfills biblical narratives and its eschatological significance tied to Christ's return. Greever also connects baptism to the new covenant and highlights the consistent faith required for salvation across testaments. Finally, he recommends essential resources for diving deeper into covenant theology.

Stephen Wellum, a Professor of Christian Theology at Southern Seminary, delves into the Davidic Covenant and its significance within various theological frameworks. He explains how this covenant interconnects with the Messiah’s role as the ultimate Davidic king. Listeners will discover the implications of the covenant on Israel's history and future fulfillment in Christ. The discussion also navigates the 'already not yet' tension of eschatology and critiques traditional views, illuminating the narrative of Scripture through the lens of God's covenant promises.

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.