Ask Ligonier

How clearly did people in the Old Testament understand the triune nature of God? Today, Michael Reeves explores how the Old Testament reveals the Trinity and how the coming of Christ brings this truth into even greater light. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/did-the-old-testament-saints-know-god-as-trinity/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What keeps the world from descending into complete disorder? Today, W. Robert Godfrey explores the doctrine of common grace, addressing common misconceptions and why this truth matters for Christians. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/what-is-common-grace/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In this discussion, Sinclair Ferguson, a noted Reformed theologian with a deep background in biblical teaching, explores the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of non-believers. He reveals how the Spirit convicts individuals of their need for salvation and illustrates this with a compelling aviation analogy. Ferguson also traces the Spirit's involvement from creation through to applying redemption, emphasizing the distinct roles of the Trinity throughout. His insights help shine a light on the transformative power of the Spirit even before belief.

Rev. Joel Kim, President of Westminster Seminary California, dives into the intriguing topic of special revelation. He discusses how many Christians believe in ongoing personal revelations and argues that such miraculous confirmations have ceased, placing Scripture as the primary medium for God's voice. Joel emphasizes the need to test claims of personal revelation against the Bible, ensuring they align with God’s revealed will. He advocates for prioritizing Scripture and prayerful reflection over new claims, providing a thoughtful guide for navigating this complex issue.

Why do many Christians associate Calvinism with the acronym TULIP? Today, W. Robert Godfrey explains where this familiar term came from and how it seeks to summarize Reformed teaching. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/where-did-tulip-come-from/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Michael Reeves, a theologian and president of Union School of Theology, dives into the struggles of recurring sin and shame. He explains how these challenges invite the accusatory whispers of Satan, urging believers to remember God's abundant grace over their failures. Reeves emphasizes applying the gospel personally, highlighting that Christ's sacrifice cleanses guilt and breaks the power of sin. By fostering a superior love for God, he argues, believers can overcome their attachments to sin and be drawn back by grace.

Why does Scripture call those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake "blessed"? Today, Derek Thomas reflects on the cost and privilege of following Christ in a hostile world. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/what-does-it-mean-to-be-persecuted-for-righteousness-sake/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

How can church members actively pursue unity? Today, Joel Kim reflects on the Apostle Paul's tender image of a nursing mother to illustrate how care and hospitality cultivate lasting fellowship. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/how-can-church-members-help-create-greater-unity-in-the-life-of-a-congregation/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

How can Christians know if their good works are Spirit-led or driven by the flesh? Today, Sinclair Ferguson explains how our motives and focus reveal the true source of our obedience. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/how-do-i-know-if-good-works-are-of-my-flesh-or-of-the-holy-spirit/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Michael Reeves, President of Union School of Theology, shares profound insights on dealing with depression from a Christian perspective. He emphasizes that suffering doesn't diminish one's faith, using examples from Martin Luther and Charles Spurgeon. He explores the interplay between physical, spiritual, and mental causes of depression, and discusses when medication may be necessary. Reeves also highlights the importance of trusting God during dark times, encouraging listeners to walk by faith and recognize God's fatherly care in their struggles.