Hearts Aflame

In this episode, we explore the rich theology of Thomas Boston, a faithful Scottish Puritan minister, as he expounds on the threefold office of Christ as Prophet, Priest, and King. Christ is the ultimate teacher, making known the will of God. He is the perfect High Priest, who atones for sin and intercedes for His people. He is the sovereign King, ruling and defending His church. Boston’s insights remind us that Christ is not only our Savior but also our guide, advocate, and ruler.  

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins unfolds the glorious destiny of the elect after the Last Judgment. The blessedness of heaven is not a reward earned by works but a gift of grace through Christ—eternal life in perfect fellowship with God. The elect shall lack nothing, for the presence of God will be their everlasting joy and sufficiency. They will see His face, be made like Christ, and inherit the new heavens and new earth. This episode explores the fullness of heavenly blessedness—the joy of dwelling with God, the radiance of His glory, and the perfect service of the saints in His eternal kingdom. 

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins explores the Christian’s profession of faith through prayer and thanksgiving. True devotion to Christ is not merely spoken but lived out in continual communion with God. Prayer expresses our dependence on Him, while thanksgiving acknowledges His gracious provision. This episode examines the power of petition, the joy of thanksgiving, and how both are essential in the life of a believer. 

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins teaches that affliction is not accidental but divinely appointed for the believer’s good. The cross we bear is given by God’s providence, designed to humble us, refine us, and draw us closer to Him. Suffering is not meaningless—it is a mark of adoption, a tool for sanctification, and a path to eternal glory. This episode explores the biblical call to patiently endure suffering, understanding its purpose, and finding strength in Christ. 

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins presents the reality of the Christian life as a spiritual battlefield. Every believer must prepare for combat, arm themselves with God’s armor, and stand firm against the schemes of the devil. This episode explores the necessity of truth, righteousness, faith, and the Word of God in resisting temptation and overcoming spiritual attacks. Perkins reminds us that though the enemy is relentless, God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness.

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins teaches that true repentance is not merely feeling sorrow for sin but a complete turning to God, leading to a transformed life. Repentance flows from faith and sanctification, producing the fruit of obedience to Christ. It is the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in the believer, enabling them to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Christ in daily obedience. This episode explores the nature of repentance as an essential part of the Christian life, emphasizing that it is more than just turning away from sin—it is turning toward Christ in faith.

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins unpacks the significance of the first commandment, calling believers to exclusive worship of the one true God. This foundational law is not just about avoiding idols but about choosing God as our highest treasure. Perkins highlights God’s self-existent nature, His covenant relationship with His people, and the dangers of trusting in false gods such as wealth, power, or human strength. This episode explores what it means to acknowledge, trust, love, and fear God rightly. 

In this episode, we explore William Perkins’ teaching on the fall of Adam and its far-reaching effects on humanity. Adam’s disobedience was not merely an isolated act but a deliberate rebellion against God, leading to sin and death for all his descendants. Perkins examines the manner of the fall, the gravity of Adam’s transgression, and the devastating consequences that followed. Yet, even in this tragic event, we see the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan—where sin abounded, grace abounded all the more. Through Christ, the second Adam, God offers restoration and eternal life.  

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins explores the nature and role of angels—God’s powerful, spiritual beings created to glorify Him and execute His divine will. Though unseen, angels serve as messengers, warriors, and ministers, carrying out God’s commands with swiftness and strength. Scripture describes them as wise, mighty, and innumerable, ever dwelling in God’s presence and worshiping Him. This episode examines the biblical portrayal of angels, their hierarchy, and their purpose in God’s providence. 

In "A Golden Chain," William Perkins expounds on the foundational doctrine of the Trinity—the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as three distinct persons in one divine essence. Though beyond full human comprehension, this truth is central to understanding God’s nature, His work in creation, and our salvation in Christ. This episode explores the unity, love, and order within the Trinity, reminding us that our worship must embrace God in His fullness.