
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

Jul 1, 2024 • 58min
New Testament Use of the Old Testament with Greg Lanier
In this episode Caleb and his guest Greg Lanier (PhD, University of Cambridge) Associate Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary discuss how the New Testament authors used the Old Testament to communicate the gospel and present the person and work of Jesus. Together, they also cover what the Old Testament teaches Christians today about the church’s identity and ethics. Further, Greg shares his helpful 3-step method to explain how to identify and explore an Old Testament passage and see how it is “remixed” in the New Testament to thoughtfully engage with Scripture.Resources: Old Made New: A Guide to the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by Greg Lanier https://a.co/d/bv82d1L Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by Greg Beale, Don Carson, Benjamin L. Gladd, and AndyNaselli https://a.co/d/454ToXc Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament by Don Carson and Greg Beale https://a.co/d/6blAMRd

Jun 24, 2024 • 1h 6min
From Canon to Concept: Systematic Theology with Steve Wellum
Professor Steve Wellum, from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, discusses his new book on systematic theology. Topics include major theological influences, the process of writing a theology book, understanding different theological systems, contemporary issues in theology, and embracing the triune nature of God.

8 snips
Jun 17, 2024 • 1h 12min
The Life and Theology of John Gill with David Rathel
David Rathel, Associate Professor of Christian Theology, delves into the life and theology of John Gill. They discuss Gill's impact on theological discourse, his views on eternal justification and hyper-Calvinism, and his unique contributions to the Covenant of Redemption. Rathel emphasizes the importance of clear answers in Christian faith and showcases his research on Gill through the lens of Andrew Fuller's influence.

Jun 10, 2024 • 56min
The Book of Exodus with Philip Ryken
Philip Ryken, President of Wheaton College and PhD from the University of Oxford, joins Caleb to discuss the theology of the book of Exodus. They explore key topics such as the main idea, purpose, structure, main themes, and key verses in Exodus. The conversation covers the theological significance of the plagues in Egypt, symbolism of the tabernacle, typology and fulfillment in the Old Testament, and teaching tips for studying Exodus.

Jun 3, 2024 • 1h 4min
Natural Law with David VanDrunen
Join Caleb in a conversation with David VanDrunen, a Professor of Systematic Theology, discussing natural law, its impact post-fall, relation to biblical covenants, and how it affects believers and unbelievers. They explore its ties to the gospel, influence on political theology, and the consequences of straying from its principles.

7 snips
May 27, 2024 • 1h 5min
The Reformed, Jonathan Edwards, and Free Will with Drew Sparks
Join Caleb in a discussion with PhD Drew Sparks on free will in the Reformed tradition and Jonathan Edwards' theological insights. They explore concepts like intellect, will, determinism, and God's decree, comparing Edwards' views to other Reformed theologians. Dive into the complexities of human freedom, moral responsibility, and Christ's impeccability in relation to worship.

May 20, 2024 • 56min
A Biblical Theology of Creation and New Creation with Edward Klink
Edward Klink, senior pastor and author, discusses the importance of a biblical theology of creation and new creation, emphasizing the integration of physical and spiritual aspects. He explores the covenantal narrative from Adam to Christ, highlighting Jesus as the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. Recommended resources for further exploration are also provided.

12 snips
May 13, 2024 • 55min
Humanity as the Divine Image with Peter Gentry
Peter Gentry, a PhD holder and Distinguished Visiting Professor of Old Testament, discusses the Imago Dei doctrine. Topics include nuances of humanity as God's image, representing God's rule, covenantal connections, and the influence on sex, gender, and marriage.

12 snips
May 6, 2024 • 1h 2min
The Book of Genesis with Stephen Dempster
Stephen Dempster, professor of religious studies, discusses the theological depth of Genesis. Topics include the book's literary structure, main themes, relation to the Bible, and the fall of humanity. They also explore covenantal relationships, teaching strategies, and the significance of loving God and others. Delve into the narrative of creation, disobedience, divine image, and hope for redemption found in Genesis.

Apr 29, 2024 • 1h 8min
A Theology of Worship with Devon Kauflin
In this episode, Caleb is joined by guest, Devon Kauflin (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) who serves as lead pastor at Grace Church in Clarksburg, Maryland and helps lead Sovereign Grace Music. Together they discuss things like: a biblical theology of worship, how to think through structuring gathered worship, ordinary means of grace, and more. Resources: Reformation Worship: Liturgies from the Past for the Present by Jonathan Gibson https://a.co/d/1ri6A1I How Then Should We Worship by Sam Waldron https://a.co/d/9ZFdKyI Corporate Worship: How the Church Gathers as God's People by Matt Merker https://a.co/d/2iMcRjK Sound and Doctrine Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-plus-doctrine/id1534597955
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