
Theology for the Church
Theology for the Church aims to provide accessible, theologically rich conversations that have an eye toward applied theology and a heart for the local church. Weekly episodes hosted by Caleb Lenard (DEdMin, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) cover all kinds of topics and themes in Christian doctrine, biblical theology, and Christian formation through engaging interviews with pastors, biblical scholars, and theologians from across the globe.
Latest episodes

8 snips
Oct 21, 2024 • 57min
A Biblical Theology of the Holy Spirit with Andreas Kostenberger
Andreas Kostenberger, a biblical studies professor and founder of Biblical Foundations, joins to delve into a biblical theology of the Holy Spirit. He discusses the Spirit's seven key roles, including imparting life and mediating God's presence. The conversation highlights the Spirit's impact on biblical wisdom, the connection to Jesus' ministry, and its vital role in fostering church unity. Additionally, they touch on resources for further study, encouraging a deeper engagement with the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.

Oct 14, 2024 • 58min
Proclaiming the Triune God: The Trinity in the Life of the Church with Joseph Lanier
Joseph Lanier, a pastor and co-author of 'Proclaiming the Triune God,' dives into the profound impact of the Trinity on Christian life and theology. He discusses the importance of divine simplicity and the concept of inseparable operations, illustrating how these ideas shape our understanding of faith. Lanier emphasizes the necessity of humility in grasping Trinitarian doctrine and the role of language in deepening theological learning. His insights foster a deeper love for God and highlight the significance of the Trinity in teaching and community unity.

Oct 7, 2024 • 48min
Answering the Psalmist's Perplexity: New Covenant Newness in the Psalms with James Hely Hutchinson
In this episode, Caleb is joined by James Hely Hutchinson (PhD, Moore College) Director, Institut Biblique de Bruxelles, Belgium to discuss his new book, Answering the Psalmist's Perplexity: New-Covenant Newness in the Book of Psalms. Together, they discuss things like: What is the psalmist's perplexity? What's new about the new covenant? What is the relationship between the biblical covenants? Which theological system best accounts of the psalmist's own view of these matters? And more.Resources: Answering the Psalmist's Perplexity: New-Covenant Newness in the Book of Psalms by James Hely Hutchinson Kingdom through Covenant: A Biblical-Theological Understanding of the Covenants by Stephen Wellum and Peter Gentry Progressive Covenantalism: Charting a Course between Dispensational and Covenantal Theologies edited by Stephen Wellum and Brent Parker Covenantal and Dispensational Theologies: Four Views on the Continuity of Scripture edited by Richard Lucas and Brent Parker Discontinuity to Continuity: A Survey of Dispensational and Covenantal Theologies by Ben Merkle Stirred by a Noble Theme: The Book Of Psalms In The Life Of The Church edited by Andrew Shead

5 snips
Oct 3, 2024 • 1h 17min
5 Principles for Interpreting the Book of Revelation with Alex Stewart
In this discussion, Alex Stewart, a New Testament studies professor at Gateway Seminary, shares his journey of deepening his understanding of the Book of Revelation. He outlines five essential principles for interpretation that make this complex text accessible and applicable to modern life. Topics include common pitfalls in interpreting Revelation, the importance of historical context, and how its themes motivate believers to overcome challenges. Plus, Stewart provides a fresh perspective on the cosmic conflict depicted in Revelation, linking it to the Christmas narrative.

Sep 30, 2024 • 56min
Eschatology with Gerry Breshears
In this enlightening discussion, Gerry Breshears, a theology professor at Western Seminary and elder at Grace Community Church, delves into eschatology—the study of end times. He explains concepts like the intermediate state, Christ's second coming, and the resurrection. Gerry also breaks down various millennial views and explores diverse rapture perspectives. With an emphasis on theological unity, he highlights the importance of hope and clarity within the church, offering valuable resources for further exploration.

4 snips
Sep 23, 2024 • 1h 1min
Angels and Demons with John Gilhooly
Join John Gilhooly, a Professor of Philosophy and Theology at Cedarville University, as he unpacks his book on spiritual beings. He debunks common misconceptions about angels and demons, clarifying their biblical roles as messengers rather than mere myths. The conversation dives into ideas like territorial spirits and the nature of spiritual warfare. Gilhooly emphasizes the distinction between humans and angels, urging a deeper understanding of Satan's role and encouraging believers to focus on prayer in confronting spiritual challenges.

Sep 16, 2024 • 46min
The Doctrine of Salvation with Andy Naselli
In this conversation with Andy Naselli, a Professor of Systematic Theology and lead pastor, listeners dive into the doctrine of salvation. They discuss the significant theological concepts like predestination, regeneration, and justification. Naselli clarifies the transformative journey of faith, highlighting the vital roles of repentance and spiritual adoption. The discussion also explores how understanding these doctrines shapes personal identity and spiritual growth, culminating in the assurance of eternal communion with God.

4 snips
Sep 9, 2024 • 47min
Union with Christ with Constantine Campbell
In this episode, Caleb is joined by Constantine Campbell (PhD, Macquarie University) Professor of Biblical Studies and Research Director at Sidney College of Divinity to discuss the doctrine of Union with Christ. Together they discuss questions like: What is union with Christ? How are believers identified with the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Christ? How does God communicates all his blessings of salvation through this union? How does union with Christ and the fact that God personally dwells with believers by means of the Holy Spirit work? How are believers united in community with one another by means of union with Christ? And more.Resources: Paul and Union with Christ: An Exegetical and Theological Study by https://a.co/d/659f7Vj Union with Christ: The Way to Know and Enjoy God by Rankin Wilbourne https://a.co/d/62vD8nu Salvation Applied by the Spirit: Union with Christ by Robert Peterson https://a.co/d/7Tm4zfU Living in Union with Christ by Grant Macaskill https://a.co/d/3u5tQDL

7 snips
Sep 2, 2024 • 45min
The Atonement with Jeremy Treat
Jeremy Treat, a pastor at Reality Church and theology professor at Biola University, dives deep into the doctrine of atonement. He unpacks how atonement connects with Christ’s mission and the Trinity's role in salvation. Treat emphasizes the significance of penal substitution, arguing it’s central but just one part of a broader narrative. The discussion also touches on the importance of reconciliation among believers and how preaching can deepen understanding of Christ’s multifaceted work. Essential resources for further exploration are also highlighted.

6 snips
Aug 26, 2024 • 59min
Prayer and Divine Providence with Todd Miles
Todd Miles, a theology professor at Western Seminary with a PhD from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, joins to discuss the profound connection between prayer and divine providence. They dive into what prayer truly means and how it intertwines with God’s sovereignty. Todd addresses pressing questions like: How do our prayers influence God's will? What is the balance between divine control and human freedom? The conversation also features insights from historical theologians and practical reflections on fostering a deeper relationship with God through prayer.