

Just and Sinner Podcast
Jordan B Cooper
A weekly discussion of theology from a Lutheran perspective.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 26, 2025 • 55min
Infant Baptism in the Second and Third Centuries
Dive into early Christian history as the host explores significant evidence surrounding infant baptism from the second and third centuries. Discover testimonies from figures like Polycarp and Origen, highlighting the belief in childhood faith and the need for baptism. Learn about cultural practices, such as familial transmission of faith and how converts often credited their parents for their Christian upbringing. Engaging anecdotes detail early church customs and regional influences on baptismal practices, setting the stage for ongoing debates.

23 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Theological Case for Baptizing Infants
Delve into the intriguing theological case for infant baptism! Explore the differences among various religious traditions and the significant contributions of George Henry Gerberding. Discover why infants, viewed as inheritors of original sin, need redemption right from birth. Learn how Scripture links baptism to salvation, and whether baptism is an ordinary means of grace. The discussion also addresses objections about infant damnation and emphasizes biblical parenting that nurtures a covenantal faith in children.

5 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 1h 7min
Why Did Christian Apologists Stop Using Classical Arguments for God's Existence?
Dive into the fascinating decline of classical arguments for God's existence among evangelical apologists. Explore the historical shifts influenced by Enlightenment critiques and how skepticism redefined philosophical discussions. Discover Aquinas' five proofs, focusing on motion and causation, and their relevance today. Unpack the transition to classical theism and its implications for modern theology, revealing a revival of interest in these foundational concepts amidst contemporary challenges.

5 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 1h 2min
The Doctrine of Human Nature (Intro to Theology Lesson 6)
Dive into the fascinating exploration of human nature and its divine image, revealing what sets humanity apart from animals. Discover the intricate dance between original righteousness and the potential for sin, as well as the impact of the Fall on moral integrity. Delve into free will's role in the nature of evil, contemplating profound theological questions and the existence of Satan. The discussion highlights humanity's unique creation in God's image and the historical perspectives shaping our understanding of moral identity.

17 snips
Sep 6, 2025 • 53min
Creation, Providence, and the Angels (Intro to Theology Lesson 5)
Dive into the fascinating doctrines of creation, divine providence, and the role of angels. Discover how God's involvement shapes history and humanity's narrative, even amid sin. Explore Thomas Aquinas's concept of the 'unmoved mover' and its implications for our understanding of motion and existence. Delve into the intricate dance between free will and divine sovereignty, revealing how individual choices align with God's grand design. Finally, uncover how historical developments paved the way for Christ's arrival and the growth of Christianity.

14 snips
Sep 5, 2025 • 1h 7min
The Doctrine of the Holy Trinity (Intro to Theology Lesson 4)
Dive into the fascinating doctrine of the Trinity, exploring its biblical and historical foundations. Discover how early Christian writings affirm Jesus's divinity through powerful scriptural references. Unpack the intricate relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, while critiquing common interpretations. The discussion emphasizes the significance of historical creeds and the baptismal formula in understanding God's nature, making complex theological concepts accessible and engaging.

8 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 1h 42min
Sola Scriptura in a Post-Christian World
Dive into the debate around sola scriptura, the cornerstone of Protestant belief, and its varied interpretations. Discover the critiques it faces from Roman Catholic perspectives and the complexities of individual biblical interpretation. Explore historical responses to the Reformation and the evolution of key doctrines like purgatory and the papacy. Unpack the relationship between scripture and tradition in shaping faith today. Lastly, navigate the challenges of unity and diversity within Christianity, revealing a rich tapestry of belief.

23 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 8min
The Evidence for Infant Baptism in the First Century: A Response to Gavin Ortlund
A deep dive into the historical roots of infant baptism reveals its significance in the early church. The discussion highlights household baptisms and insights from theologians, enriching our understanding of the practice. Biblical contexts are explored to unveil how early Christians connected scripture to the baptism of children, weaving together Old Testament traditions with family dynamics of faith. The episode challenges listeners to reconsider the role of infants in religious practices.

8 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 18min
How Do Truth, Goodness, and Beauty Relate to God and Meaning in Life?
Jordan Cooper, a Lutheran minister and professor, teams up with Janni Hakkarainen, a philosophy docent from Tampere University, to explore the deep connections between truth, goodness, and beauty. They tackle the 'meaning crisis' in the West, discussing how these transcendentals shape our lives and can lead to a more fulfilling existence. The conversation navigates nostalgia as a longing for spiritual meaning and examines the educational philosophy of Bildung, emphasizing individual growth in relation to community. A thought-provoking dialogue on life’s fundamental questions!

Aug 1, 2025 • 1h 28min
Virtue in the Roman Catholic and Lutheran Traditions
The discussion dives into the nature of virtue and moral formation within Roman Catholic and Lutheran traditions. It highlights the importance of strong moral foundations and character education to counter today's societal challenges. Speakers reflect on the need for flourishing in faith and examine how these traditions can guide individuals toward a more virtuous life. The symposium prompts listeners to consider how religious values influence contemporary morality.