The Westminster Podcast

Hey everyone. We're back this week with the second episode of The Scottish Tempest. In this episode I'll be covering the period from Knox's conversion to Protestantism until his initial exile from Scotland. There's a lot that happens during that period; his best friend dies, he is the subject of a manhunt, there's an assassination, some people take over a castle, he becomes a pastor at said castle, they try to make alliance with the English and ultimately, they all become slaves to the French. There is, of course, a lot of historical background and context as well because the politics of England, France, Scotland, and Rome all have indirect (and some times direct) bearing on Knox's story. It's a long one, and I hope you enjoy it. If you enjoy this episode, you can access tons of content just like this at wm.wts.edu. If you would like to join us in our mission to train specialists in the bible to proclaim the whole counsel of God for Christ and his global church, visit wts.edu/donate.Thanks for listening.

Luke Laird, a prolific country songwriter with over 20 number one hits and two Grammys, shares his unique journey from the Nashville scene to the Master of Theological Studies program. He discusses how his faith has profoundly shaped his songwriting and identity in the music industry. Laird delves into the challenges of maintaining authenticity amidst industry pressures and reflects on personal growth through his studies. He emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration in Nashville, all while expressing gratitude for his spiritual journey.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Brandon Crowe, a New Testament professor at Westminster Theological Seminary, dives into the interconnectedness of Biblical Theology and Systematic Theology. He reveals how exegesis and historical context enrich our understanding of Scripture, particularly the interplay between the Old and New Testaments. Highlights include the journey of Christ’s self-disclosure in the Gospels and the transformative experiences of His disciples. Crowe also shares insights from his recent works that shed light on Christ’s identity and the essence of discipleship.

Dr. Mark Farnham, a professor at Lancaster Bible College and author of "Every Believer Confident," dives into the world of apologetics. He emphasizes that apologetics isn't just for trained experts; every Christian can engage in it. Farnham shares his own journey and the importance of practical evangelism rooted in faith. He discusses the limitations of classical apologetics while advocating for a blend of emotional connection and evidence in conversions. The conversation also touches on the challenges of addressing cultural issues in faith discussions.

Nate Shannon chats with Dr. Vern Poythress, a respected theologian and author, to unravel the depths of Genesis 1. They dive into the importance of God's spoken word in creation and how it guides both theology and evangelism. Poythress emphasizes the relevance of Genesis in a secular culture, blending faith with science, and addressing identity struggles. They explore artistic philosophies of Bach and Mahler while highlighting how a humble approach to Scripture fosters a richer understanding of God's voice and the universal message of creation.

Embark on an enlightening journey through the life of John Knox, a towering figure in the Reformation. Discover his emotional depth beyond villainous portrayals and the socio-political turmoil of Scotland during his time. Learn about the pivotal Battle of Flodden and its catastrophic impact on the nation. Explore Knox’s early influences, from traditional church practices to a personal faith, as he transformed from a Catholic priest to a significant Protestant reformer. This is a fascinating exploration of a complex legacy.

In this episode of the Westminster Podcast, Nate Shannon is joined by Luke and Charis Carson to discuss their ministry in the London prison system. Luke works with London City Mission and ministers to those in the prison and with people who have recently been released from prison. Charis also works as a chaplain in the London prison system.If you enjoy this episode, you can access tons of content like it at wm.wts.edu. If you would like to join us in our mission to train specialists in the Bible to proclaim the whole counsel of God for Christ and his global church, visit wts.edu/donate.

Join Jerry McFarland, former Dean of Students at Westminster Theological Seminary, as he dives into the intertwined journey of faith and education. He emphasizes the necessity of balancing spiritual maturity with academic excellence. McFarland shares insights about fostering a supportive community and the vital role of mentorship in online education. He encourages future theologians to prioritize their relationship with Christ over academic accolades, ensuring a richer spiritual growth experience during their seminary years.

Culture is the air that we breathe. It informs how we view the world around us and is a necessary consideration for any apologetic discussion. Dr. Nate Shannon sits down with Dr. Bill Edgar to discuss culture, apologetics, and cultural apologetics. If you enjoy this episode, you can access tons of content like it at wm.wts.edu. If you would like to join us in our mission to train specialists in the Bible to proclaim the whole counsel of God for Christ and his global church, visit wts.edu/donate.

Stafford Carson, a key figure at Westminster Seminary with a rich preaching background, joins Dr. Nate Shannon for a compelling discussion. They emphasize the gospel's power as a living word and share Stafford's remarkable 47-year journey in faith. Topics include the dynamics of effective preaching that bridges theology and culture, the challenges new ministers face in adapting to their roles, and the importance of listening with humility. They also highlight the significance of global ministry and the dedication of missionaries in spreading faith across cultures.