

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

4 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 1h 4min
A Response to Gavin Ortlund on Christology
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.

Feb 14, 2025 • 1h 1min
A Response to a Roman Catholic Critique on Luther's View of Vocation
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.

Feb 12, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Doctrine of Divine Love, or How Theology Relates to Ethics (Sartorius's Divine Love Part 1)
Explore the profound insights of Ernst Sartorius on divine love and its significance in Lutheran theology. Discover the historical divide between rationalism and ethics in the post-Enlightenment era. Delve into the tensions between Lutheran Orthodoxy and Pietism, and their influence on Enlightenment thinkers like Kant. Uncover how the command to love, especially one’s enemies, is essential to Christian ethics. Finally, understand how moral actions are rooted in a divine relationship, shaping our approach to goodness.

Jan 27, 2025 • 1h 1min
An Introduction to Luther's Catechisms
Delve into Martin Luther’s catechisms and their significance for Lutheran education, both for laypeople and clergy. Discover Luther's unique ability to make complex theological ideas accessible for everyday Christians, while critiquing clergy's often superficial understanding of scripture. Misconceptions about Christian liberty are explored, revealing a deeper moral responsibility. The importance of lifelong theological learning is emphasized, paralleling it with the necessity of nourishment, highlighting the catechism's enduring relevance for nurturing faith.

Jan 20, 2025 • 1h 5min
John Henry Newman on Papal Infallibility
This episode is the third in a series on Vatican I and the dogma of Papal infallibility. In this part, I discuss John Henry Newman's development hypothesis.

Jan 13, 2025 • 1h 3min
A Response to Fr. Mike Schmitz on Magisterial Authority
In this episode, I respond to comments made by Fr. Mike Schmitz on Magisterial Authority and Sola Scriptura.

Jan 10, 2025 • 1h 2min
The Theologia Germanica
Dive into the fascinating world of medieval mysticism with a focus on the Theologia Germanica. Discover its profound influence on Martin Luther and the Reformation, along with key themes of sin and divine union. Explore the Friends of God movement and how it reshaped spirituality in 14th century Germany, promoting a more personal faith. Delve into the nature of God, human struggle, and redemption, highlighting the philosophical tensions of the time and the importance of humility in the quest for divine connection.

Jan 8, 2025 • 58min
The Doctrine of the Mystical Union Part 3
Dive into the rich doctrine of mystical union with Christ, where the discussion contrasts Lutheran beliefs with Roman Catholic views. Explore God's unique presence in believers, highlighting transformative moments of faith. The interplay of justification, adoption, and spiritual fruitfulness reveals the profound impact of this union in daily life. Reflect on its significance in Lutheran theology compared to other interpretations, while engaging in a heartfelt prayer for deeper communion with God. Feedback for future explorations is also warmly welcomed!

4 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 1h 2min
The Doctrine of the Mystical Union Part 2
Dive into the fascinating concept of mystical union, where humanity engages with the divine without losing individuality. Explore the delicate line between creature and creator, emphasizing theosis. Discover contrasting views on God's presence between Roman Catholic and Lutheran traditions, along with Eastern Orthodox insights. Delve into the essence versus energies of God, illustrating how believers relate to divine presence. Finally, uncover the intricate dance of distinct identities coexisting within the mystical union.

4 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 4min
David Hollaz on the Mystical Union
Discover the fascinating concept of mystical union with Christ, contrasting Lutheran and Reformed perspectives. Dive into the unique Lutheran understanding of this union as a covenantal relationship, exploring how it heals spiritual separation from sin. Examine the balance between forensic justification and personal transformation, as highlighted by theologian David Hollaz. Unpack the transformative power of justification in daily life, revealing how these theological concepts enrich interpersonal relationships and spiritual growth.