Theology On The Go

Union with Christ While James enjoys a vacation, Jonathan has the pleasure of speaking with Ian Hamilton about Union with Christ, one of the topics Ian will be addressing at the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology in Grand Rapids, MI, March 15th - 17th. Speaking passionately, and quoting a few of his favorite theologians, Ian talks about the benefits that flow from our union with Christ. He connects the relationship between being in Christ, and a life of obedience—offering an antidote for Christians who are struggling with the high calling to be holy. Whet your spiritual appetite with this episode, then head out to the conference in Grand Rapids next month! Show Notes ·  About Ian Hamilton ·  Redemption Accomplished and Applied by John Murray ·  The Glory of Christ by John Owen ·  Knowing God by J. I. Packer ·  Religious Affections by Jonathan Edwards ·  Several readings by John Calvin   Sign up for the opportunity to win one of the free conference registrations! But, if you don’t want to take your

Incomprehensible but Knowable Words are important, and some of them carry meanings that can be crucial for our understanding of God; words that will eventually affect the way we live the Christian life. Incomprehensibility is one of these words. But what exactly does it mean? Jonathan and James make use of some grammatical definitions and traditional Reformed theology to help us understand why God is incomprehensible. Is there really anything about God that we can comprehend? Tune in for the difference between true knowledge and comprehensive knowledge. Show Notes ·  1 Kings 8:12-13; 27 ·  Psalm 145:3 Please visit Reformed Resources for more on this topic.  

Commentary Connoisseur Do you know anyone who loves the book of Romans to the point of owning more than 120 commentaries on the epistle? Jonathan and James know one such fan! Rob Ventura is the pastor of Grace Community Baptist Church in North Providence, an author, and blogger for Reformation21. Rob is crafting a commentary on the book of Romans, and promises it’ll be a concise and very practical tool for pastors and teachers. He describes it as “quick”, “accessible”, and full of “expository nuggets.” Our hosts discuss the forthcoming opus with its enthusiastic author! Reformation21 - More about Rob Romans Commentaries Mentioned in this Episode Richard Longenecker Leon Morris Matthew Henry Colin Kruze Frank Thielman We are pleased to give away to all of our listeners a free MP3 download of Introduction to Romans by Dr. Barnhouse. Just register and download!   Congratulations to the winners of Hitting the Marks from our past episode Word, Sacrament, and Discipline. Scott H. - Harrisonburg, VA Ed S. - Mar

Hell Podcast We managed to catch Jonathan and James in their offices having a conversation about hell. The topic might not be a very popular one, but—if Scripture addresses it—we should pay attention to it. The Bible uses a few different words referring to hell, describing it as a place of punishment. But, is the word punishment used in the sense of "retribution," or as meaning "corrective and rehabilitating?" What does scripture describe as being the real purpose of hell, and how does that purpose glorify God? Don’t miss this fascinating conversation. Show Notes Matthew 25 Hebrews 9:27 2 Thessalonians 1 Daniel 12 Congratulations to the winners of The Letter and Spirit of Biblical Interpretation from our past episode For Instruction, Doctrine, and Morals. Follow the link to read more on the topic. Deborah C. - Wheeling, IL Trevor M. - Syracuse, NY Johnnymae B. - Ambler, PA

Word, Sacrament, and Discipline You’ve moved to a new area, and are looking for a church. What are the main things you should consider in your search? As a visitor, what are the visible signs that indicate you’re in a true church? Barry York is a pastor…president of Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, a co-host of 3GT podcast…and, the author of Hitting the Marks: Restoring the Essential Identity of the Church. In today’s conversation, Barry clearly distinguishes the biblical standards of church membership from those of the consumer mentality, and things of central importance from peripheral preferences. Have you considered that every member of the church is responsible for the health and growth of the local body? Tune in, and find out why and how. Show Notes About Barry Congratulations to the winners of Some Pastors and Teachers by Sinclair Ferguson from our past episode The Preacher and Teacher. Michael M. - Casa Grande, AZ Nathan M. - Beaver Falls, PA Joshua L. - Chesapeake Beach, MD

For Instruction, Doctrine, and Morals James and Jonathan have a few questions about biblical interpretation, and Keith Stanglin is the right man to answer them. He’s the associate professor of historical theology at Austin Graduate School of Theology, and has written The Letter and Spirit of Biblical Interpretation, an overview from the early church to our day. How helpful, really, is the history of interpretation for Bible reading? Is there a considerable difference between how the Bible was interpreted and applied in the pre-modern era, compared to today? If so, what are the differences, and why do they matter? Dr. Stanglin deals with the historical-critical method, authorial intent, and the kind of student the Scriptural interpreter must be—and he’s not talking about the level of one’s education! Show Notes 2 Timothy 3:16-17 Isaiah 7 and Matthew 1:14 Song of Solomon 1:2   If you want the opportunity to win a free copy of Keith Stanglin’s book, register here. The copies are a complimentary gift from our fr

Sinclair Ferguson is associate minister at Saint Peter’s Church in Dundee, Scotland. He’s a long-time professor of theology, a former member of the Alliance of Confessing Evangelicals council, and author of numerous works, including Some Pastors and Teachers, which is the subject of today’s conversation. You have probably heard the question or asked it yourself: What’s the difference between preaching and teaching? Dr. Ferguson provides a clear answer, adding to it a few practices that have enriched his thinking, and improved his sermon preparations and writing. As a minister of the gospel, have you ever considered the benefits of being pressured to do things out of your comfort zone? As Paul inquired of Timothy: Is anyone seeing the progress you’re making in handling Scripture? Enjoy the warmth and wisdom of our honored guest. Show Notes Dr. Ferguson recommends readings by: ·  B.B. Warfield ·  John Murray ·  Several sources of the experiential preaching of the Puritan tradition  

James and Jonathan welcome Pierce Taylor Hibbs. He’s the associate director of the Center for Theological Writing at Westminster Theological Seminary.   Through the years, Pierce felt that writing was not only a profession--one, in which, he was trained—but also a vocation and calling, especially when combined with theology. Pierce relates his personal experience of discerning that calling on his life and shares some encouragement for others who wish to become better writers as well. What is the purpose of writing? What are some of the dangers and temptations that may come with the task? Show Notes About Pierce T. Hibbs and his writing Pierce’s recent publication, Finding God in the Ordinary Called to the Ministry by Edmund P. Clowney Pierce’s list of writers that help him to write better: ·  John Henry Newman ·  E. B. White (One Man’s Meat, Elements of Style) ·  George Orwell ·  Karl Ove Knausgaard We’re pleased to give away a free MP3 download entitled C. S. Lewis the Evangelist by Philip Ryken to all of o

Dr. Carlton Wynne is the assistant professor of systematic theology and apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary, and one of the speakers at the Quakertown Conference on Reformed Theology, entitled The Glory of the Cross. How does the historical Adam magnify the cross of Christ? Carlton gives us a little glimpse into the glorious topic he’ll be addressing at the conference November 9 and 10. Redemptive history is God’s theme for our faith, and Carlton comprehensively walks us through the imputation of Adam’s sin to all men, and how God deals with this catastrophic event through the person and work of Christ.   Show Notes The Glory of the Cross Romans 6 No Adam, No Gospel: Adam and the History of Redemption by Richard B. Gaffin Jr. 1 Corinthians 15 Genesis 3, 4, and 5   We are giving away a few free registrations for The Glory of the Cross Conference. Register here for the opportunity to attend free of cost!

What do we think when we think about heaven? Is heaven our eternal home? Derek Thomas joins us for conversation about the delightful topic of heaven and the new earth. He’s currently the senior pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Columbia, SC. In this encouraging conversation, Derek tells us about his book, Heaven on Earth: What the Bible Teaches about Life to Come. Drawing from Scripture, he outlines what happens immediately after death, and further: how our view of the life to come shapes our present hope. Find out how Derek answers the age-old question, “Will there be dogs in heaven?” Show Notes Isaiah 65 and 66 2 Peter 3 Revelation 21 and 22 Romans 8 Westminster Confession of Faith chapter XXXII 1689 Baptist Confession chapter XXXI The Savoy Declaration of Faith chapter XXXI   We have few copies of Heaven on Earth: What the Bible Teaches About Life to Come. If you would like the opportunity to win one, register here. The copies are a generous gift from Christian Focus Publications.      

Natural Revelation God has revealed himself in nature, as Romans 1 affirms, but should natural revelation be the starting point of conversation in an apologetic or evangelistic encounter? James and Jonathan consider the text of Acts 14, with Paul’s apologetic approach to Jews and Greeks. Is seeing God’s hand clearly at work in creation sufficient to turn rebellious hearts to the Creator in repentance? Enjoy what this engaging conversation reveals about the deity of God, and the beneficial application of natural revelation. Show Notes Francis Turretin’s Institutes of Elenctic Theology (1st Topic, Question 3)

There has been a steady stream of Protestants converting to Roman Catholicism in recent years, and many of these converts claim challenges with Protestantism itself. Darryl Hart is professor of history at Hillsdale College, and has recently written Still Protesting: Why the Reformation Still Matters. The book is a compelling work rising out of theological conviction, and it confronts the claims of these converts with the pressing question: “How do I stand right before God?” How would you counsel someone thinking about ‘going to Rome’? Join us, and hear what considerations Darryl says are of the utmost importance. Show Notes ·  Second Vatican Council ·  John Henry Newman ·  Westminster Confession of Faith Chapter 1   Thanks to Reformation Heritage Books, we can offer some copies of Still Protesting, Why the Reformation Still Matters. Register for the opportunity to win one!

Theology on the Go reaches the big 1-0-0! To celebrate, we (with tongue in cheek) present this special edition of the podcast, as Jonathan and James search the Scriptures for the many and significant appearances of the number 100. You may be totally underwhelmed! Nonetheless, you’re invited to join us in thanking the Lord for this exciting milestone. We’ll even conclude the podcast with “The Old 100th!” A special thanks to all who have shared their wisdom with us as guests on Theology on the Go, and to you--our faithful listeners and supporters.  

The event of Israel’s exodus from Egypt is not just an historical Old Testament account, but a more complex theme that resonates throughout the Scriptures. Jonathan and James sit down with Bryan Estelle to explore Echoes of Exodus: Tracing a Biblical Motif. Bryan walks us through several passages--from the gospels, to the Pauline epistles, all the way to the book of Revelation--helping us to recognize this recurrent exodus, and its implications for our lives today. Show Notes About Bryan Estelle Salvation through Judgement and Mercy: The Gospel According to Jonah Thanks to our friends at IVP Academic, we’re giving away copies of Echoes of Exodus. Register, and you might be one of the winners!  

Christ and Covenant Theology Jonathan and James invite Dr. Cornelis Venema for a conversation about his collection of essays entitled Christ and Covenant Theology. But what is Covenant Theology? Dr. Venema offers a rich definition, making a distinction between the covenant of works and the covenant of grace.  He clarifies the significance of Adam under the covenant of works, the theological issue of Republication, and more. Does Jesus save us by grace, or by His work? Tune in and hear what the professor has to say! Show Notes About Dr. Cornelis Venema Mid-America Reformed Seminary Our Reasonable Faith by Herman Bavinck Thanks to our friends at P&R Publishing, we’re able to give away few copies of Dr. Venema’s book Christ and Covenant Theology. Register for the opportunity to win!

Pastor Herman Bavinck Many know Herman Bavinck as a reputable Dutch theologian, whose Reformed Dogmatics continues to shape the thoughts of theologians, pastors, and lay Christians alike. What is largely unknown is that Bavinck was also a devout and heartfelt preacher. To bridge the gap between Bavinck, the scientific theologian and Bavinck the preacher, Jonathan and James welcome Dr. James Eglinton. He’s translated and edited Herman Bavinck on Preaching and Preachers. Dr. Eglinton shares how he got involved in the project and outlines what Bavinck meant by “eloquent preaching.” Show Notes About James Eglinton Bavinck’s Reformed Dogmatics If you’d like to win a free copy of Dr. Eglinton’s book Herman Bavinck on Preaching and Preachers, don’t hesitate to sign up! This giveaway is a generous gift from our friends at Hendrickson Publishers.    

When studying the history of the Church, we tend to jump from the apostolic era right to the third century and beyond, where theological controversies were taking shape and ecumenical councils were being called. What about the second century? Was anything significant happening then? Michael Kruger has written Christianity at the Crossroads: How the Second Century Shaped the Future of the Church to provide valuable insight. Who would have imagined that--amid theological and cultural transitions, and much political instability--this time period would actually serve to solidify the Church! Show Notes About Michael Kruger Don’t miss the opportunity to win a free copy of Christianity at the Crossroads. Sign up! The books are a generous gift from IVP Academic. Coming up next: You might know Herman Bavinck as a great theologian, but have you thought of him as a preacher and devoted pastor? James Eglinton joins us to tell us about the Bavinck we haven’t heard much about it!  

Interpreting Scripture with The Great Tradition Jonathan and James meet with Craig Carter to talk about his recent book, considered (by some) to be controversial--Interpreting Scriptures with the Great Tradition: Recovering the Genius of Premodern Exegesis.  Craig talks about the growing gulf between academic hermeneutics and Sunday preaching, and argues for a recovery of the context provided by the Nicene theological method of interpretation. Listen in, as Craig explains Christian Platonism, the role of metaphysics in Bible interpretation, and other compelling topics.   Show Notes Dr. Craig Carter’s Bio The Superiority of Pre-critical Exegesis essay by David Steinmetz Confessions by Augustine - Book VII City of God by Augustine - Book VIII Thanks to Baker Academics we can offer you the opportunity to win a copy of Interpreting Scripture with the Great Tradition. Sign up!!

Insuppressible Truth Jonathan and James welcome Gabriel Fluhrer. He’s a pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Columbia, SC, and one of the main speakers at the Pensacola Theological Institute conference Insuppressible: Glory, Gospel, and the Design of Life, happening this summer in Pensacola, FL. The science-faith debate continues to rage, so Gabe, Derek Thomas, and Douglas Axe join forces to present a theological and scientific case showing that the Bible stands up to scientific critique. Once again, we see that Genesis 1 through 3 plays a foundational role in our faith – and, in the whole of Scripture -- in this time of existential darkness. As you enjoy the conversation, register for the conference, and prepare to witness Bible exposition and biology joining hands in a God-glorifying way.   Show Notes Insuppressible: Glory, Gospel, and the Design of Life McIlwain Presbyterian and Pensacola Theological Institute Sign up for the opportunity to win a free registration to attend the conference!

How important are the first chapters of Genesis to our understanding of the whole of Scripture? What happens to our perspective if we isolate Genesis 1-3 from the rest of God’s Word? Richard Barcellos drops in. He’s written Getting the Garden Right: Adam’s Work and God’s Rest in Light of Christ. The book is a sharp analysis of both the covenant of works and the Sabbath.  Was Adam called to simply tend the Garden of Eden, or was there a greater goal given even before the fall? Richard paints the big picture, applying Scriptural proofs along the way. Show Notes Richard Barcellos New Covenant Theology (NCT) Romans 3:23 Genesis 1:28 2 Thessalonians 2:14 We are happy to be giving away copies of Getting the Garden Right by today’s guest. Sign up for the opportunity to win one. The copies are a generous gift from Founders Press.