

The London Lyceum
Jordan Steffaniak and Brandon Ayscue
The London Lyceum seeks to encourage serious thinking for a serious church by creating an intellectual culture of charity, curiosity, and critical thinking. Find out more about us at our website: www.thelondonlyceum.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 13, 2025 • 46min
Chalcedonian Anthropology with Michael Wilkinson
In this episode, Jordan talks with Michael Wilkinson about Chalcedonian Christology and its implications for understanding human nature. They discuss Wilkinson's journey from law to theology, the importance of creeds in evangelical thought, and the paradigm shifts in Christological anthropology. The conversation also touches on the relevance of the person-nature distinction, the challenges faced by theological students, and the impact of advanced theological training on pastoral work.Resources:1) Crowned with Glory and Honor: A Chalcedonian AnthropologyChapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Purpose01:26 Michael Wilkinson's Unique Journey to Theology03:23 Understanding Chalcedonian Christology11:37 The Importance of Creeds in Evangelical Life18:25 Paradigm Shifts in Christological Anthropology22:57 Chalcedonian Christology and Its Implications25:49 Exploring Substance Dualism and Physicalism26:25 Understanding Hylomorphism in Context27:31 The Person-Nature Distinction in Theology31:11 Influences on Understanding Person-Nature Distinction36:54 Navigating Advanced Theological Work in Everyday Life41:34 The Impact of PhD Training on Pastoral WorkSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Aug 6, 2025 • 49min
Theological Retrieval and Tradition with Brandon Smith
In this episode Jordan talks with Brandon Smith about retrieval in theology, particularly from a Baptist perspective. They discuss the importance of engaging with historical figures and creeds, the distinctives of Baptist identity, and the challenges and opportunities presented by changing traditions. The conversation emphasizes the need for a robust understanding of one's own tradition while also recognizing the contributions of other Christian traditions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum Podcast02:36 Understanding the Retrieval Project06:02 Baptist Perspectives on Retrieval10:30 Engaging with Historical Sources14:14 Navigating Tradition and Change18:48 Skepticism Towards Retrieval22:21 The Emotional Aspect of Tradition26:23 Evaluating Tradition Changes26:37 Theological Identity and Its Impact28:56 Navigating Denominational Changes30:30 Caution in Changing Traditions32:43 The Role of Education in Baptist Identity34:54 Addressing Negative Connotations of Baptist Identity38:14 The Complexity of Tradition and Change40:26 Baptist Identity in the Broader Protestant Context43:48 Contributions of Baptists to the Church48:10 The Importance of Tradition in TheologySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jul 30, 2025 • 53min
Andrew Fuller and Deism with Joe Harrod
In this episode of the London Lyceum, Zach Williams talks with Dr. Joe Harrod about the life and significance of Andrew Fuller, a pivotal figure in Baptist history. The conversation delves into Fuller's writings against deism, particularly his response to Thomas Paine's critiques of Christianity. Dr. Harrod emphasizes the importance of understanding deism's historical context and its revival in the American colonies, as well as Fuller's methodology in addressing theological controversies. The discussion highlights the relevance of Fuller's work in contemporary Christian thought and the necessity for pastors to engage with current ideas that challenge orthodox beliefs.Resources:1) The Gospel Worthy of All Acceptation, Andrew FullerChapters00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum Podcast02:43 Exploring Andrew Fuller and His Significance10:40 Understanding Deism: Origins and Key Figures18:25 Fuller's Response to Deism and Thomas Paine26:04 Responses to Deism and Infidelity28:31 Fuller's Argument: The Gospel as Its Own Witness33:29 Methodology and Engagement with Controversies39:23 Historical Context and Citations in Fuller's Work44:43 Contemporary Manifestations of Deism49:01 Lessons from Fuller for Modern PastorsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jul 24, 2025 • 23min
Tradition, Being a Baptist, and the Future of Renewal Theology - Kiffin's Keep Ep. 74
In this episode of Kiffin's Keep, Jordan discusses the recent departure of Matthew Barrett from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary to Trinity Anglican. He explores the implications of this change for young Baptists and the broader theological community, emphasizing the importance of honoring theological mentors while remaining rooted in one's tradition. The conversation also addresses the renewal and retrieval movements within the Baptist tradition.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kiffin's Keep and Today's Topics02:50 Matthew Barrett's Departure and Its Implications05:28 The Role of Theological Parents and Mentors08:28 Renewal and Retrieval Movements in Baptist Tradition11:31 The Importance of Tradition and Identity14:16 Engaging with Questions and Challenges17:25 Concluding Thoughts on Theological EngagementSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jul 23, 2025 • 46min
Collegiality in Academia with John Wilsey and Stephen Presley
In this episode, Jordan and Hunter talk with John and Stephen about the importance of friendship and collegiality in academia, particularly for early-career professionals. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating the challenges of academic life, the significance of providence, and the necessity of building relationships. The conversation also touches on evaluating job opportunities, the role of patience in academic growth, and the importance of engaging with scholarly work responsibly. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Themes of Curiosity01:44 Friendship and Collegiality in Academia04:42 Navigating Early Career Challenges11:18 The Role of Providence in Career Decisions17:03 Evaluating Job Opportunities in Academia21:40 Building Relationships in Academia28:08 The Importance of Patience and Community35:44 Navigating Academic Discourse and CritiqueSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jul 16, 2025 • 41min
Christian Liberty before the Reformation with Ian Christopher Levy
In this episode Jordan talks with Dr. Ian Christopher Levy to explore the relationship between medieval theology, the concept of conscience, and the evolution of papal power. They discuss the role of theology masters in universities, the nature of penance, and the distinctions between Luther's views and those of medieval theologians. The conversation highlights the vibrant intellectual culture of the medieval period and its lasting impact on contemporary thought.Resources:1) With a Pure Conscience: Christian Liberty before the ReformationChapters00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum and Dr. Ian Christopher Levy01:25 Exploring Late Medieval Theology and Key Figures04:23 The Role of Universities in Church and Society07:06 Understanding Conscience in Medieval Thought11:28 Penance and Its Significance in Medieval Christianity14:25 The Evolution of Papal Power in the Medieval Era18:17 William Ockham and Political Thought21:20 Debunking the Myth of the Dark Ages23:11 Luther's Conscience vs. Medieval Theology27:44 The Common Good and the Nature of Disputations32:17 Intellectual Engagement in Today's Climate37:28 Future Projects and ConclusionSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jul 9, 2025 • 1h 12min
On the Nature of Sexual Difference with Timothy Fortin
In this conversation, Matt Ntiros and Ryan Modisette talk with Timothy Fortin about the complexities of sexual difference and gender from philosophical, biological, and theological perspectives. He explores the historical context of these concepts, particularly through the lenses of Thomas Aquinas and Simone de Beauvoir, while also addressing contemporary views on gender identity. The discussion delves into the evolutionary basis for sexual difference and its implications for understanding masculinity and femininity, ultimately connecting these ideas to a broader theological framework.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation02:53 Understanding Sexual Difference05:28 The Relationship Between Sexual Difference and Gender08:03 Major Theories on Sexual Difference10:47 Evolutionary Perspectives on Sexual Difference13:22 Philosophical Perspectives: Beauvoir and Butler16:15 Contemporary Implications of Sexual Difference37:34 The Role of Matter in Creation39:26 Evolutionary Perspectives on Gender42:06 Substance and Identity: A Thomistic Approach45:50 Causal and Ontological Analyses of Sexual Difference51:47 Understanding Maleness and Femaleness01:01:06 Sexual Difference as a Reflection of Divine LoveSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jul 2, 2025 • 40min
Original Sin and the Colloquy of Regensburg
In this episode Jordan talks with Daniel Houck and Joel Chopp about original sin and the colloquy at Regensburg. They explore the historical context of the colloquy, the definitions and debates surrounding original sin, and the concept of concupiscence. The conversation highlights the complexities of theological definitions and the challenges of achieving consensus among different traditions, particularly between Protestant and Catholic perspectives.Find the symposium at Pro Ecclesia here.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Symposium on Original Sin04:31 Historical Context of the Regensburg Colloquy08:38 Defining Original Sin: Theological Debates12:37 Concupiscence and Its Implications16:35 The Image of God and Its Theological Significance21:01 Protestant and Catholic Perspectives on Original Sin25:04 Conclusion and Future DiscussionsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jun 25, 2025 • 42min
Book Club: Basil's On the Holy Spirit
In this episode, Hunter, EJ Roussel, and Elijah discuss Basil the Great's work 'On the Holy Spirit.' They explore the significance of group reading, the importance of a biblical approach to theology, and Basil's views on the Holy Spirit, deification, and baptism. The conversation highlights the relevance of Basil's teachings in contemporary theological discussions and the value of engaging with patristic literature.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum Podcast01:42 The Importance of Reading Groups04:42 Basil the Great's Arguments on the Holy Spirit07:50 Basil's Biblical Foundation and Theological Reasoning12:36 Understanding the Holy Spirit's Attributes15:47 The Concept of Deification in Basil's Theology19:09 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Sanctification and Theology23:07 Theological Foundations and Orthodoxy24:42 Basil's Theology of Baptism31:49 Typology and Biblical Theology34:05 The Interconnection of Theology and Church Life38:35 Reflections on Trinitarianism and Basil's InfluenceSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 7min
Baptist Bonanza! Featuring the Center for Baptist Renewal - Generally Particular Ep. 44
Jake and Jesse talk with Luke Stamps and Winston Hotman about a rangeof topics on Baptist history, identity, and current denominational issues. Topics include reflections on the SBC annual meeting, debates over pragmatism versus theological fidelity in church governance, the role of local associations, and the interplay of historical figures like Andrew Fuller, John Gill, and Spurgeon in shaping Baptist tradition. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes about rural Southern church culture, the enduring value of revivalism, and hymnody.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-london-lyceum4672/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy