

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

15 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 1h 30min
An Overview of the Most Essential Lutheran Theologians
A brisk tour of major Lutheran thinkers from the Reformation to the 19th century. Highlights include Luther and Melanchthon, the rise of confessional and orthodox scholasticism, the Pietist movement and its critics, and 19th-century Neo-Lutheran and American confessional revivals. Notable theological figures, debates over law and gospel, and shifts in method and historiography are showcased.

12 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 46min
What Does it Mean to be Human? An Apologetic
A tour of competing stories about human nature, from Enlightenment reason and utopian progress to Hegel, Marx, and existential authenticity. A look at how wars, technology, and social media reshaped hopes for freedom and flourishing. The Christian narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and a promised consummation is presented as an alternative framework for human meaning.

Jan 27, 2026 • 48min
Christian Apologetics Amid the Meaning Crisis
A conference talk on how apologetics must adapt to a widespread meaning crisis. It traces the shift from new atheism to existential questions about identity and purpose. It contrasts views of human nature from materialist, gnostic, and social theories. It introduces truth, goodness, and beauty as central realities and links them to arguments about mind, language, and modern philosophy.

10 snips
Jan 23, 2026 • 1h 15min
Correcting Misrepresentations of the Reformation and Lutheran History
This discussion tackles common misconceptions surrounding the Reformation and its historical narratives. The host critically examines 20th-century scholarly claims linking Protestantism to modern issues. He emphasizes the continuity of Lutheran ethical teachings and sacramental theology. Key points include Luther's views on grace, the interplay of nature and divine gifts, and a critique of the idea that the Reformation caused a split between nature and grace. The conversation sheds light on the richer, more nuanced understanding of the Reformation's impact on theology and society.

11 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 1h 1min
The Humiliation of Christ (Intro to Christian Theology)
Delve into the fascinating states and offices of Christ, exploring themes of humiliation and exaltation. Discover how Christ's human life was marked by the withholding of divine glory, while still embodying perfect sinlessness. The podcast critiques kenoticism and discusses the balance of divine and human attributes in Jesus. It contrasts Lutheran and Reformed views on miracles and examines the significance of Anselm's argument for salvation. Gain insights into Christ's genuine suffering and growth, leading to the ultimate transition from humiliation to exaltation.

Jan 16, 2026 • 1h 9min
Gabriel Biel and the End of Scholasticism (Makers of the Modern World)
Discover the intriguing life and thoughts of Gabriel Biel, the last of the medieval scholastics. Explore his fascinating transition from medieval scholasticism to humanism and the Reformation. Learn about his unique views on God's powers, the interplay of mercy and justice in divine decrees, and human freedom. Reflect on Biel's calls for introspection and the signs of grace in a believer's life. Delve into his ideas about sacraments as indicators of inner disposition, and the role of church authority in matters of faith.

14 snips
Jan 2, 2026 • 1h 18min
William of Ockham and Late Medieval Nominalism (Makers of the Modern World)
Dive into the fascinating world of William of Ockham as the podcast unveils his pivotal role in late medieval nominalism. Explore his life, from Franciscan roots to accusations of heresy, and how his ideas challenged established theological norms. Discover Ockham's unique perspective on universals, divine cognition, and the intersection of faith and reason. The conversation also touches on his influence on later thinkers, the implications of his ethical theories, and the profound shift toward empiricism in philosophical thought.

10 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 40min
Sola Gratia, Nature, Grace, and Nominalism
Michael Horton, a Reformed theologian, and Gavin Ortlund, a pastor and apologist, dive deep into the intricate connections between nominalism and Reformation theology. They tackle how nominalism influenced Luther’s views on justification and explore the role of union with Christ. The discussion moves through nuanced debates about grace, human free will, and the interplay of faith with works. The duo also critiques interpretations of Lutheran thought, emphasizing the need for a robust understanding of grace as both gift and favor.

10 snips
Dec 19, 2025 • 59min
On the Two Natures in Christ (Intro to Christian Theology)
Dive into the fascinating discussion on the two natures of Christ, where Dr. Jordan Cooper contrasts Christology from below and above. Explore how the Incarnation fits within redemptive history and the evidence backing Jesus' historicity. Discover the significance of prophecy, the kenosis theories, and the orthodox formulation of Christ’s dual nature. Key heresies are addressed, bringing clarity to the Council of Chalcedon's teachings. Plus, learn about the implications of Christ's humanity and the ongoing mystery surrounding the divine.

7 snips
Nov 21, 2025 • 1h 12min
A Guide to Reasoning and Debating Well
Discover the art of debate as the host explores essential principles for effective argumentation. Learn about the rhetorical triangle of logos, pathos, and ethos, and the importance of timing in persuasion. Delve into common logical fallacies like whataboutism and ad hominem, along with the significance of defining terms and distinguishing facts from values. Four levels of disagreement are introduced, encouraging listeners to address foundational assumptions for meaningful discussions. Join for insights that elevate your debating skills!


