Theology for the Church

In this engaging discussion, Ronni Kurtz, a theology professor at Cedarville University and author of "Light Unapproachable," delves into the theme of divine incomprehensibility. He explores how our limitations in understanding God should inspire joy rather than despair. Kurtz underscores the importance of theological humility and the role of prayer in seeking deeper knowledge. He also discusses key biblical narratives and the balance between God's transcendence and our attempts to know Him, emphasizing the value of historical theology in contemporary understanding.

In this episode, Caleb is joined by Michael Lawrence (PhD, University of Cambridge) lead pastor of Hinson Baptist Church in Portland, Oregon to discuss the nature and marks of the church. Together they discuss things like: what is the church? What is the relationship between the universal church and local churches? What is the visible/invisible church distinction? What does it mean for a church to be: one, holy, catholic, and apostolic? Why are preaching, the Lord’s Supper, and baptism vital for the church? And more. Resources:  Nine Marks of a Healthy Church by Mark Dever The Rule of Love: How the Local Church Should Reflect God's Love and Authority by Jonathan Leeman The Church: The Gospel Made Visible by Mark Dever The Church: An Introduction by Gregg Allison Biblical Foundations for Baptist Churches: A Contemporary Ecclesiology by John Hammett What Is the Mission of the Church?: Making Sense of Social Justice, Shalom, and the Great Commission by Greg Gilbert and Kevin DeYoung

Caleb chats with Sam Parkison, an associate professor at Gulf Theological Seminary and author of *The Unvarnished Jesus*. They delve into the beauty of Christ, emphasizing the importance of seeing Him authentically in faith. The conversation explores the hypostatic union and how creeds like the Nicene Creed shape our understanding of Christology. Sam also highlights the transformative power of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, inviting listeners to deepen their appreciation of His divine and human natures.

In this episode, Caleb is joined by Matt Damico (MDiv, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) associate pastor of worship and operations at Kenwood Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky to discuss his new book, coauthored with Jim Hamilton, Reading the Psalms as Scripture. Together, they discuss the structure and key themes of the Psalter as well as things like messianic typology and how to incorporate the psalms in corporate worship in the local church. Resources: Reading the Psalms as Scripture by Matt Damico and Jim Hamilton Psalms Volume I & II: Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary by Jim Hamilton The Psalter Reclaimed: Praying and Praising with the Psalms by Gordon Wenham The Flow of the Psalms: Discovering Their Structure and Theology by O. Palmer Robertson Typology-Understanding the Bible's Promise-Shaped Patterns: How Old Testament Expectations are Fulfilled in Christ by Jim Hamilton Trinity Psalter Hymnal 

Peter Gurry, Professor of New Testament at Phoenix Seminary and director of the Text & Canon Institute, dives into the fascinating history of the Bible's canon. He tackles common misconceptions about how the Bible was formed and discusses the significant role of canonicity in interpreting scripture. Gurry explains the differences between Protestant and Catholic Bibles, the historical importance of the Septuagint, and the criteria early Christians used to determine canon status. He emphasizes the communal nature of establishing scriptural authority, encouraging deeper engagement with the Bible.

Join Jeff Brannon, a professor of biblical studies and author of "The Hope of Life After Death," as he dives into the transformative theme of resurrection hope throughout the Bible. They explore the significance of Jesus's resurrection and its connections to creation and salvation. Brannon also discusses the implications of Adam and Eve's fall and God's redemptive promises. Highlighting resurrection narratives from Abraham to the prophetic books, he emphasizes how this hope guides believers through life's challenges and champions the gospel message.

Mike McKinley, senior pastor and author from Sterling Park Baptist Church, delves into his book 'Friendship with God.' He explores what true friendship with the divine entails, contrasting biblical and secular perspectives. McKinley emphasizes the importance of community and intentionality in building a relationship with God, along with practical tips like prayer and scripture. He highlights the Holy Spirit's comforting role and encourages listeners to deepen their faith through recommended resources. It's a thoughtful conversation on nurturing divine fellowship.

In this episode, Caleb is joined by Tim Wiebe (DMin, Southern Seminary) pastor of spiritual formation at Brookside Church in Omaha, Nebraska to discuss Tim's new book, What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus?: A Clear, Biblical Picture of Discipleship. Together they discuss what a framework for holistic discipleship that is biblical, practical, and accessible looks like.Resources What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus?: A Clear, Biblical Picture of Discipleship by Tim Wiebe Following the Master: A Biblical Theology of Discipleship by Michael Wilkins Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ by Dallas Willard The Complete Book of Discipleship: On Being and Making Followers of Christ by Bill Hull Knowing God by J.I. Packer

Murray Capill, Dean of Ministry Development at Reformed Theological College, dives deep into preaching practical application from Scripture. He discusses the struggles preachers face in applying biblical truths to everyday life and the importance of timely application. Capill highlights the preacher’s personal journey and character's influence on their message. He advocates for holistic preaching that engages the audience's mind and heart, intertwining application throughout the sermon rather than relegating it to the end. It's an insightful conversation on transformative proclamation!

In this episode, Caleb is joined by Shawn Wilhite (PhD, Durham University) associate professor of New Testament at California Baptist University and Coleman Ford (PhD, Southern Seminary)  assistant professor of humanities at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to discuss their new book,  Ancient Wisdom for the Care of Souls: Learning the Art of Pastoral Ministry from the Church Fathers. Together they discuss what a scriptural vision of ministry is, how patristic voices help inform this vision, and how pastors today can cultivate this pastoral vision in their churches. Ancient Wisdom for the Care of Souls: Learning the Art of Pastoral Ministry from the Church Fathers by Shawn Wilhite and Coleman Ford The Book of Pastoral Rule: St. Gregory the Great The Contemplative Pastor: Returning to the Art of Spiritual Direction by Eugene Peterson Confessions by Augustine On God and Christ: The Five Theological Orations and Two Letters to Cledonius by Gregory of Nazianzus The Spirit of Early Christian Thought: Seeking the Face of God by Robert Louis Wilken