Just and Sinner Podcast

Explore the strength of Lutheran identity in a shifting religious landscape. The discussion emphasizes deep theological understanding, especially regarding justification as a cornerstone of faith. Discover how a key figure transformed the perception of God's righteousness from a judge to a divine gift. Dive into the nuances of Christian obedience in daily life, informed by Martin Luther's insights. Unpack the concepts of Lutheran piety and the mystical union with Christ, highlighting a faith-centered approach to spirituality over self-purification.

The discussion kicks off with why younger generations are drifting from evangelicalism, citing weak theology and cultural misalignment. It critiques the consumer-driven megachurch culture and its effects on genuine spirituality. The impact of anxiety in decision-making and the rise of movements like the Emergent Church are examined. Reviving Calvinism comes into play, delving into its historical relevance. Lastly, there's a fascinating look at the complexities of goodness in theology, contrasting Lutheran and Reformed views on righteousness.

Dive into the transformative teachings of Johann Gerhard and discover how his works shape godly living. Explore the mystical union with Christ and its impact on believers' lives. Learn about the essential nature of godliness, emphasizing love for God and others. Uncover the importance of a spiritual approach to scripture, guided by prayer and the Holy Spirit. Delve into transformative practices of faith, highlighting humility and contemplation as keys to deeper connections with the divine.

This episode overviews the Lutheran and Roman Catholic dialogues that followed Vatican II in the 1960s. I introduce the talks about the Office of the Holy Ministry and the Eucharist.

Delve into the intriguing thoughts of Thomas Hobbes, a key figure in political philosophy. Discover his views on the commonwealth and the necessity of a powerful state for societal stability. Explore the rise of religious toleration in the tumultuous backdrop of the Middle Ages and the transformative impact of humanism. Learn about Hugo Grotius' contributions to the evolution of rights amidst the conflicts of his time. Contrast Hobbes' social contract ideas with the philosophies of contemporaries like John Locke.

Dive into the skeptical philosophy of David Hume and its modern impact. Explore the clash between empiricism and rationalism, as Hume critiques innate knowledge using sensory experience. Discover how Hume’s thoughts on universal concepts challenge classical philosophies. Unpack the philosophical divide through Hume's insights on morality, emphasizing human sentiment. Finally, learn about Hume's influence on key historical figures and his contrasting views on revolutions, shaping contemporary ideology.

Dive into a fascinating analysis of how Christ's two natures communicate attributes from divine to human. Explore the profound union between believers and Christ, highlighting baptism's significance for salvation. Discover the distinct Lutheran view on Christ's presence, including the complexities post-ascension. The discussion critiques various perspectives on grace and spiritual gifts while addressing historical theological tensions. This thought-provoking dialogue unpacks deep theological insights and historical contexts that shape modern faith.

This episode is a discussion I had with my wife, Lisa Cooper, about poetry and her new book Hasty Corporeal Ink.

The discussion kicks off with a critique of Lutheran Christology, analyzing the interplay of Christ's two natures. It highlights Martin Luther's real presence in the Eucharist versus Zwingli's symbolic view. The contrasting perspectives of Chemnitz and Brenz are explored, showcasing key theological nuances. The nature of Christ during his state of humiliation and the complexities of his omnipresence within Lutheran thought are unveiled. Misconceptions about Christ's body and presence are clarified, leading to a deeper understanding of divine and human interactions.

This program is a response to a recent video from the Roman Catholic YouTuber Brian Holdsworth who gave a critique of the idea of the "Protestant work ethic" centered on Luther's approach to work and vocation more broadly.