Reformed Forum podcast

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In this special live recording of Christ the Center , Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, Jim Cassidy, and guest Marcus Mininger explore the vital topic of redemptive historical interpretation. Dr. Mininger is Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Mid-America Reformed Seminary and author of Uncovering the Theme of Revelation in Romans 1:16–3:26: Discovering a New Approach to Paul’s Argument (Mohr Siebeck). Recorded in Oklahoma City as part of Reformed Forum’s Redemptive History Seminar , this discussion examines how Scripture should be read and understood through the lens of God’s unfolding revelation in Christ. Dr. Mininger provides fresh insights into Romans 1–3, uncovering the biblical theme of revelation and how it shapes our understanding of God’s righteousness. The conversation also tackles Hebrews 6, a notoriously difficult passage, through a redemptive historical framework—showing why a return to the Old Covenant is both impossible and perilous. Throughout the episode, the panel reflects on the importance of a Christ-centered hermeneutic, the role of Scripture as its own interpreter, and how biblical theology helps believers grasp the grand narrative of redemption. The discussion concludes with engaging audience questions, further unpacking key interpretive challenges. Join us for this rich theological discussion and discover how reading Scripture in its redemptive historical context deepens our understanding of God’s Word. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:00:07 Welcome and Introduction 00:04:01 Introduction to the Live Podcast Session 00:07:02 What is Redemptive Historical Interpretation? 00:13:23 The Importance of a Christ-Centered Hermeneutic 00:20:13 Understanding Paul’s Argument in Romans 1–3 00:34:36 Exploring the Theme of Revelation in Romans 00:54:06 The Bible as Its Own Interpreter 01:00:21 A Redemptive Historical Reading of Hebrews 6 01:08:44 The “Jetway” Illustration for the Old and New Covenants 01:11:45 Audience Questions and Discussion Participants: Camden Bucey , Jim Cassidy , Lane G. Tipton , Marcus Mininger…

Reformed Forum

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Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Resurrection

πριν 5 μέρες

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This week on Theology Simply Profound , Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine . On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we a discussion of chapter XXX, the last chapter “The Resurrection, the Last Judgement, and the Final State.” Participants: Rob McKenzie , Robert Tarullo…

Reformed Forum

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You Will Be My Witnesses

πριν 9 μέρες

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In this episode of Christ the Center , Camden Bucey speaks with Brian DeVries, a theologian and pastor in South Africa, about his new book, You Will Be My Witnesses , which explores the biblical and theological foundations of Christian witness, emphasizing the church’s role in participating in God’s redemptive mission. They discuss the Christian and Reformed landscape in South Africa, the importance of witness in missions, and the connection between worship and witness. DeVries emphasizes the need for a solid theology of mission and the role of every believer as a witness to Christ. In this conversation, we explore the multifaceted nature of Christian witness, emphasizing its historical significance, the interplay of suffering and evangelism, and the importance of both word and deed in the church’s mission. They discuss the need for boldness in witness, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the impact of personal experiences on understanding witness. Additionally, they highlight the work of Mukhanyo Theological College in training leaders for ministry in Southern Africa. Dr. Brian A. DeVries is a theologian, educator, and pastor with extensive experience in theological education and church planting. He earned his PhD from the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and currently serves as the president of Mukhanyo Theological College in South Africa. In addition to his administrative role, Dr. DeVries is an adjunct professor of missiology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary . Dr. DeVries has led three multiethnic church-planting teams in South Africa and currently serves as the pastor of Grace Reformed Church in Pretoria. He and his wife, Lanae, are blessed with five children. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:07 Introduction 02:18 The Christian and Reformed Landscape in South Africa 05:41 Exploring the Book: You Will Be My Witnesses 10:10 The Theology of Witness in Missions 17:13 Witness Is Part of Christian Identity 26:54 Witness in the Old Testament 30:40 The Connection Between Worship and Witness 32:26 Historical Patterns of Witness and Suffering 37:58 Regaining Boldness in Witness 41:16 Word and Deed in Witness 44:38 Personal Experiences Shaping Understanding of Witness 48:54 Demystifying Evangelism and Apologetics 51:05 Mukhanyo Theological College 54:56 Conclusion Participants: Brian DeVries , Camden Bucey…

Reformed Forum

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Vos Group #94 — Jesus’s View of the Old Testament and Doctrine of God

πριν 16 μέρες

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In this episode, we open pp. 360–365 of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology to discuss his profound insights into Jesus’s relationship with the Old Testament. How did Christ use the Scriptures in his teaching? What did he mean when he said he came to “fulfill” the law? And how does his doctrine of God affirm the continuity of divine revelation from the Old to the New Testament? Whether you’re a student of Reformed theology, a pastor, or simply curious about the biblical foundations of Christ’s teaching, this episode offers a rich and insightful exploration of key theological themes. Tune in now and be equipped to see Scripture through the lens of redemptive history. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:07 Introduction 09:08 Claims that Questions the Authenticity and Historicity of the Gospel of John 15:20 Disjunctive Views of the Old and New Testaments 21:04 Spirit and Truth 28:25 Jesus as Fulfillment of the Old Testament 38:46 Continuity between Old and New Covenants 42:44 Jesus’s Doctrine of God 49:11 Recap of Major Points 51:01 Conclusion Participants: Camden Bucey , Lane G. Tipton…

Reformed Forum

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Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Second Coming of Christ, Part 3

πριν 19 μέρες

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This week on Theology Simply Profound , Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine . On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we continue our discussion of chapter XXIX, “The Second Coming of Christ.” Participants: Rob McKenzie , Robert Tarullo…

Reformed Forum

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Van Til Group #15 — A Critique of Mathison’s Toward a Reformed Apologetics

πριν 23 μέρες

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In this episode of Christ the Center , we engage in a thoughtful and rigorous discussion of Keith Mathison’s book, Toward a Reformed Apologetics: A Critique of the Thought of Cornelius Van Til . Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey critically examine Mathison’s interpretation of Van Til, particularly in relation to idealism, epistemology, and the noetic effects of sin. Throughout this episode, we explore key themes, including: The Alleged Influence of Idealism : Did Van Til borrow philosophical categories from absolute idealism, or did he consistently maintain a Reformed, biblically grounded epistemology? The Nature of Human Knowledge : Did Van Til argue that humans must know everything in order to know anything? Or is this a misreading of his critique of unbelieving thought? The Ethical Antithesis in Epistemology : How does covenant theology shape Van Til’s apologetic system, and why is the ethical nature of knowledge crucial for understanding his method? The Role of Coherence and Correspondence in Van Til’s Thought : Did Van Til adopt an idealist coherence theory of truth, or did he reject both coherence and correspondence theories as traditionally conceived? We also discuss broader implications for Reformed apologetics, the challenges of properly interpreting Van Til, and why these theological debates matter for defending the Christian faith today. While critiquing Mathison’s arguments, we affirm the importance of engaging in these discussions with charity and precision. Join us as we work through these foundational issues and lay the groundwork for future conversations on Mathison’s book and Van Til’s apologetic legacy. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:07:17 Points of Appreciation for Mathison’s Book 00:13:04 Must Man Know All Things to Knowing Anything about Anything? 00:33:14 The Covenantal-Ethical Nature of Knowledge 00:51:11 The Influence of Idealism upon Van Til 01:01:54 Propositional Jenga 01:12:25 Borrowed Capital 01:18:42 Correlativism or One-Circle Thinking 01:23:10 The Coherence Theory of Truth 01:34:09 Conclusion Participants: Camden Bucey , Carlton Wynne , Lane G. Tipton…

Reformed Forum

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Ancient Near-Eastern Hero Culture

πριν 30 μέρες

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Join us for a fascinating conversation on biblical imagery. Dr. Michael Seufert, pastor of Mission OPC in St. Paul, Minnesota, and author of the dissertation Of Beasts and Men: A Study of Genesis 49 in Light of Iconography, Metaphor, and Animal Studies , guides us through the rich tapestry of ancient Near Eastern hero culture and its implications for understanding Scripture. We explore Genesis 49, Jacob’s poetic blessing, and its striking use of animal metaphors, unpacking themes of violence, power, and divine faithfulness. Dr. Seufert highlights the ambivalence in biblical heroism, contrasting the lion-like strength of Judah with the paradoxical power of the Lamb in Revelation. Dan Svendsen, pastor of First OPC in South Holland, Illinois, also provides his perspective as a preacher immersed in the narratives of 1 Samuel. Together, we examine how the stories of David and Judah resonate with biblical themes of leadership, humility, and redemption, offering additional depth and richness to our understanding of hero culture in the Bible. With insights into the cultural, theological, and practical applications of these themes, we discuss how the church today can embrace the counterintuitive way of weakness modeled by Christ. This collaborative discussion bridges rigorous scholarship and pastoral application, offering profound encouragement for the Christian life. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:10:04 Michael Seufert’s Academic Journey 00:25:47 Understanding Hero Culture in Scripture 00:35:43 The Wilderness of Empire and Violence 00:38:58 Animal Imagery in Biblical Power Dynamics 00:41:29 The Complexity of Judah’s Legacy 00:48:20 Lessons from Jacob and David 00:59:16 Embracing Christ’s Path to Victory 01:09:23 Conclusion Participants: Camden Bucey , Dan Svendsen , Michael Seufert…

Reformed Forum

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Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Second Coming of Christ, Part 2

πριν 5 weeks

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This week on Theology Simply Profound , Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine . On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we continue our discussion of chapter XXIX, “The Second Coming of Christ.” Participants: Rob McKenzie , Robert Tarullo…

Reformed Forum

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The Holy Spirit

πριν 5 weeks

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In this episode of Christ the Center , we welcome Dr. Robert Letham, Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at Union School of Theology, to discuss his latest book, The Holy Spirit . Dr. Letham offers profound insights into the person and work of the third person of the Trinity, drawing from Scripture, church history, and systematic theology. We explore key themes such as the Spirit’s role in creation, redemption, and sanctification, as well as his relationship to the Father and the Son within the Trinity. Dr. Letham also addresses contemporary theological debates, including the filioque controversy, Pentecostalism, and modern Spirit Christologies, while maintaining a firm grounding in classical Reformed orthodoxy. Whether you’re a theologian, pastor, or layperson, this conversation will deepen your understanding of the Spirit’s transformative work in the life of the church and individual believers. Join us as we explore this rich and vital topic. Robert Letham is the author of several influential works, including The Holy Trinity: In Scripture, History, Theology, and Worship and his acclaimed Systematic Theology . His writings are marked by a commitment to classical Reformed orthodoxy, thorough biblical exegesis, and an ecumenical appreciation of the broader Christian tradition. Use code HS25 for 40% off The Holy Spirit by Robert Letham through February 21, 2025. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:05:24 Speaking of the Project 00:10:04 The Persons Are Fully God without Remainder 00:18:57 Trinitarian Persons Are Immutably Dynamic 00:22:38 Surveying the Literature on the Holy Spirit 00:30:05 The Development of the Doctrine of the Holy Spirit 00:34:39 Montanism and Pentecostalism 00:41:47 The Filioque 00:54:36 The Holy Spirit and the Ordo Salutis 01:06:22 Conclusion Participants: Camden Bucey , Lane G. Tipton , Robert Letham…

Reformed Forum

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The Use of the Old Testament in Colossians

πριν 6 weeks

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In this episode we welcome back Dr. G. K. Beale, professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Dallas, to discuss Paul’s use of the Old Testament in his letter to the church in Colossae. Dr. Beale has written an insightful commentary on Colossians and Philemon in which he highlights the theological depth and practical application of these epistles, focusing on the Old Testament allusions in Colossians and their relevance to Paul’s message of Christ’s supremacy and the believer’s union with Him. The conversation explores the nature of Paul’s argument against syncretistic false teaching, the significance of Christ as the true temple, and the practical implications of Paul’s exhortations for the church today. Dr. Beale also shares his method for identifying Old Testament allusions and discusses the relationship between Ephesians and Colossians. This episode is a rich resource for pastors, teachers, and students interested in biblical theology, exegesis, and the practical application of Scripture. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:07 Introduction 04:36 AI in NT Studies 13:10 Reformed Forum Seminary in Oklahoma City 15:37 Introduction to Colossians 21:27 Quotations and Allusions 25:15 The Nature of the Colossian Heresy 29:12 The Relationship between Colossians and Ephesians 32:05 Old Testament Allusions in Colossians 53:12 Initiation into and Maturity in Christ 55:19 The Elemental Principles of the World 58:46 Conclusion Participants: Camden Bucey , Greg Beale…

Reformed Forum

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Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Second Coming of Christ

πριν 7 weeks

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This week on Theology Simply Profound , Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine . On today’s episode, under the larger section, “The Doctrine of the Last Things,” we begin to discuss chapter XXIX, “The Second Coming of Christ.” Participants: Rob McKenzie , Robert Tarullo…

Reformed Forum

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Vos Group #93 — Truth in the Gospel of John

πριν 7 weeks

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In this episode, we consider the profound theological insights of Geerhardus Vos as found in pp. 355–360 of his Biblical Theology . Camden Bucey and Lane Tipton explore the Johannine concept of truth, which transcends human-centered definitions like coherence or correspondence theories. Instead, John presents truth as an intrinsic, divine attribute embodied in the Logos, Jesus Christ, and rooted in heavenly realities. The discussion highlights how Jesus is both the fulfillment and culmination of the Old Testament, uniting Christocentrism and Christotelism to show that all Scripture points to him. From heavenly realities and earthly shadows to worship in Spirit and truth, the episode unpacks the eschatological depth of John’s Gospel and the organic unity of God’s redemptive revelation. We also reflect on Jesus’ own hermeneutic, his attitude toward Scripture as the “most orthodox of the orthodox,” and how his approach undergirds the Reformation’s emphasis on the open access of Scripture to all people. This rich conversation will deepen your understanding of biblical theology, worship, and the relationship between the Old and New Testaments. Join us as we uncover how Christ is not only the center but also the goal of all Scripture, illuminating God’s unified message of redemption across the ages. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:07 Introduction 05:27 Upcoming Oklahoma City Seminar 10:12 True and Truth in the Gospel of John 19:57 Heavenly Realities and Earthly Shadows 31:47 Jesus’ Attitude toward the Old Testament 35:16 Christo-Centrism and Christotelism 47:28 The Fulfillment of the Scriptures 55:26 Conclusion Participants: Camden Bucey , Lane G. Tipton…

Reformed Forum

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Highlights from 2024

πριν 8 weeks

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This special year-end episode highlights the top 10 most-viewed episodes and webinars from 2024. We work through key moments from discussions on Reformed theology and history. These clips showcase rich theological discussions spanning topics from biblical interpretation and church history to contemporary cultural challenges facing Reformed Christians. This annual highlight episode continues a tradition dating back to the show’s founding in 2008, offering listeners both a recap of the year’s most impactful conversations and an invitation to explore the full episodes in greater depth. The episode serves as both a celebration of Reformed Forum’s mission to support the church in presenting every person mature in Christ and a reminder of our commitment to providing free Reformed theological resources worldwide. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:04:14 Adonis Vidu — Exploring the Doctrine of Inseparable Operations 00:11:17 Aaron Renn — Life in the Negative World 00:15:15 Harrison Perkins — Exploring Covenant Theology among the Theological Disciplines 00:24:11 Van Til Group #13 — Roman Catholic and Evangelical Views of Sin and Human Consciousness 00:34:09 Iain Wright and Yannick Imbert — Reclaiming the “Dark Ages” 00:41:49 Greg Beale — Union with the Resurrected Christ 00:48:15 David Hall — Irony and the PCA 00:52:13 Cornelis Van Dam — Considering the Historicity of Genesis 1 and 2 00:55:21 Greg Beale and Ben Gladd — Dictionary of the NT Use of the OT 00:57:41 Alan Strange, Darryl Hart, Nick Willborn, and Timon Cline — Politics, Culture, and the Spiritual Mission of the Church 01:11:49 Conclusion Participants: Aaron Renn , Adonis Vidu , Alan Strange , Benjamin Gladd , C. N. Willborn , Camden Bucey , Carlton Wynne , Cornelis Van Dam , Darryl G. Hart , Greg Beale , Harrison Perkins , Iain Wright , Lane G. Tipton , Timon Cline , Yannick Imbert…

Reformed Forum

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The 2024 Christmas Extravaganza

πριν 9 weeks

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Join us for the Reformed Forum Christmas Extravaganza 2024, a four-hour special filled with lively theological discussion, reflections on the past year, and a look ahead to what’s in store for 2025. Hosted by Camden Bucey, this festive livestream features contributions from regular panelists Lane Tipton, Bob Tarullo, Jim Cassidy, Carlton Wynne, and special guests like Ruth Huang, a Mid-America Reformed Seminary student working on translating Reformed resources into Chinese. Explore topics ranging from the state of the church worldwide to the joys and challenges of ministry in different cultural contexts. Enjoy special segments with Pamela York performing jazz piano, Kurt Vetterli sharing insights on ministry in Switzerland, and James Chu discussing the challenges and opportunities for ministry in the Philippines. These moments provide a global perspective on the Reformed faith and the work of the church across cultures. Plus, enjoy games, giveaways, and reflections on Reformed theology, all delivered with the warmth and camaraderie of the Reformed Forum community. Whether you’re a long-time listener or discovering us for the first time, this episode captures the heart of our mission: to equip believers to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. Visit ReformedForum.org/donate to support our year-end campaign and help us continue providing free theological resources worldwide. Watch on YouTube and Vimeo . Chapters 00:00:00 Sponsor: Five More Talents 00:01:04 Introduction 00:33:58 Ruth Huang and the Church in Asia 01:08:04 Steve Schmidt Hosts Wits & Wagers 01:44:12 Joe Cristman’s Top Books of 2024 02:18:56 Ministry and Campaign Update with Ryan Noha 02:28:38 Pamela York Plays Jazz 02:47:56 Kurt Vetterli on Ministry in Switzerland 03:11:19 Brad Isbell with the Top Stories of 2024 03:29:35 James Chu on Ministry in the Philippines 03:59:05 Wrap-Up and Announcement of Giveaway Winners Participants: Camden Bucey , Jim Cassidy , Lane G. Tipton , Mark A. Winder , Robert Tarullo…

Reformed Forum

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A Very Merry Christmas

πριν 10 weeks