On today’s episode of Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob continue to walk through the Book of Daniel. We see the great challenge Nebuchadnezzar places upon the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers, and Chaldeans of the land by insisting that they reveal his dream to him before the interpretation. What are Daniel and his friends to do? Trust the Lord; he will provide.

This is the sixth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, Calvinistic Trinitarianism: A Reformed Federalist Alternative to Thomistic Sacerdotalism. Register for this free on-demand course on our website to download supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-three additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/cal... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

Join us for this special introductory livestream where Dr. Camden Bucey offers an accessible first look at Eastern Orthodoxy from a Reformed theological perspective. This session represents only the beginning of our exploration into this tradition. Drawing from leading introductory texts—including works by Andrew Louth, Timothy Ware, Anthony Coniaris, and Frederica Mathewes-Green—Camden will guide us through the fundamental themes and distinctives of Eastern Orthodox theology and practice.

In this initial presentation, we’ll examine key doctrines such as Scripture, the Church, the Trinity, and theosis, while also considering the underlying assumptions that shape Orthodox spirituality. What distinguishes Orthodoxy from Protestantism—not just in its answers, but in the questions it asks?

This introductory session is designed for:

• Reformed Christians seeking to understand the profound theological differences between Orthodox and Reformed interpretations of Scripture
• Those wanting to recognize how Eastern Orthodoxy’s foundational assumptions and hermeneutical approaches diverge significantly from Reformed convictions
• Viewers interested in discerning the substantial distinctions in how these traditions approach authority, salvation, and worship
• Those who desire to strengthen their grasp of Reformed theology by understanding a tradition that takes significantly different paths on core doctrines

Our aim is to begin understanding a historic Christian tradition on its own terms, while also evaluating its claims in light of the confessional Reformed faith. Initial topics we’ll introduce:

• The foundations of Eastern Orthodoxy
• Orthodox understandings of Scripture and tradition
• The Trinity: mystery, apophaticism, and communion
• Theosis and sanctification
• Authority and conciliarity vs. sola Scriptura
• Orthodox perspectives on Protestantism and Roman Catholicism
• Reformed responses to Orthodox claims

This livestream serves as an entry point for further exploration. Future sessions will explore these complex theological matters in greater detail. Join us for this engaging first exploration—and come ready to think theologically.

Watch on YouTube

In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey welcomes Dr. J. Brandon Burks, pastor of Christ Reformed Church (URCNA) in Florence, Kentucky, to discuss his recent article published in The Confessional Presbyterian Journal (Vol. 20, 2024): The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials: Living According to God’s Revealed Will.

Together, they explore the theological context of the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692, uncovering how speculative theology and reliance on so-called “spectral evidence” reflected a deeper deviation from Scripture’s clarity and sufficiency. Dr. Burks outlines the influence of figures such as William Perkins, Cotton Mather, and Richard Baxter, while also shedding light on how the distinction between God’s secret and revealed will was tragically misunderstood.

The conversation goes beyond history, offering timely insights into contemporary fascination with mysticism, the spiritual dangers of neglecting the ordinary means of grace, and the need for biblically grounded theology in facing spiritual warfare today. They conclude by considering the value of a redemptive-historical and confessional framework in pastoral ministry and theological education.

Links

• Debunking the “Moldy Bread Theory”
• The Haunted Cosmos podcast

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 02:11 Academic Background and Church Planting in Kentucky
• 07:36 Van Til’s Theology of Christian Education
• 09:39 The Puritans and the Salem Witch Trials
• 15:04 Speculative Theology
• 18:03 Williams Perkins’ Theology as a Basis
• 24:00 Covenants with the Devil
• 26:14 Devil’s Marks and Their Significance
• 29:52 Exploring the Explosion of Accusations in 1692
• 33:39 Debunking the Moldy Bread Theory
• 35:29 The Influence of Samuel Parris
• 39:21 The Dangers of Speculative Theology
• 44:26 Balancing Awareness of the Spiritual Realm
• 50:33 Misunderstandings of the Salem Witch Trials
• 53:35 Further Reading and Resources on the Trials
• 58:07 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, J. Brandon Burks

On today’s episode of Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob continue to walk through the Book of Daniel. We see God's faithfulness to his people in the midst of living in a foreign land under a foreign power as an exiled people.

This is the fifth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, Calvinistic Trinitarianism: A Reformed Federalist Alternative to Thomistic Sacerdotalism. Register for this free on-demand course on our website to download supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-three additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/cal... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

In this conversation, Camden Bucey discusses various topics related to Reformed theology, including updates on the upcoming Reformed Forum Theology Conference, an overview of his new apologetics course, and a look into Ulrich Zwingli’s theology, particularly regarding the Lord’s Supper. He emphasizes the importance of understanding historical theology and the need for faithful Reformed witness in contemporary contexts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Conference Updates
12:05 Apologetics Course Overview
24:06 Exploring Zwingli’s Theology
30:00 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

Books

• Calvin, John. Institutes of the Christian Religion. Edited by John T. McNeill. Translated by Ford Lewis Battles. 2 vols. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1960.
• Calvin, John. Short Treatise on the Holy Supper of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Translated by Henry Beveridge. Originally published 1541. Available in various reprint editions.
• Gerrish, B. A. Grace and Gratitude: The Eucharistic Theology of John Calvin. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 1993.
• Hodge, Charles. Systematic Theology. Vol. 3. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1997.
• Old, Hughes Oliphant. The Patristic Roots of Reformed Worship. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1975.
• Packer, J. I. “Calvin the Theologian.” In Honouring the People of God: Collected Shorter Writings, vol. 4, 77–92. Carlisle, PA: P&R Publishing, 2013.
• Potter, G. R. Zwingli. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1976.
• Stephens, W. P. The Theology of Huldrych Zwingli. Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1986.
• Zwingli, Ulrich. On the Lord’s Supper (1526). In Zwingli and Bullinger, edited and translated by G. W. Bromiley, 176ff. Library of Christian Classics. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1953.

In this episode of Christ the Center, we’re joined by Kurt Vetterli, pastor of an ERKWB congregation in Basel, and Florian Weicken, pastor of an EPCEW congregation in Zürich, for a rich conversation on the legacy and ongoing work of the Swiss Reformation.

We begin with a guided historical survey of the Reformation in Zürich and Basel, highlighting key figures such as Huldrych Zwingli, Johannes Oecolampadius, and Heinrich Bullinger. From the Affair of the Sausages to the formation of the Second Helvetic Confession, we explore how these cities shaped the theology, worship, and church life of the broader Reformed tradition.

Turning to the present, Kurt and Florian share about their ministries in Switzerland today—what gospel ministry looks like in a post-Christian context, the challenges and encouragements they experience, and how the Reformation heritage still speaks into their work.

We conclude with a call to pray for the Reformed churches in Switzerland and to consider how listeners might support or participate in this important kingdom work.

In Ruth 1, God brings back a wandering sheep in Naomi, showing us his grace and power. But Naomi still thinks God has dealt bitterly with her and defines herself as “Mara.” Join us as we discuss important preaching points in Ruth 1:6-22 and see how God turns sweet what sin has made bitter.

This is the fourth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, Calvinistic Trinitarianism: A Reformed Federalist Alternative to Thomistic Sacerdotalism. Register for this free on-demand course on our website to download supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-three additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/cal... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #trinity #reformedtheology

In this conversation, Camden Bucey welcomes Matt Adams, Derrick Brite, and Stephen Spinnenweber. They reflect on their experiences at the Twin Lakes Fellowship and discuss the often-neglected Larger Catechism, its practical applications, and the value of humor in theological discussions. 

Registration for the Reformed Forum Conference is now open. We mention the event, highlighting its expansion to accommodate more attendees. 

The panelists discuss the Larger for Life podcast, focusing on its mission to make the Larger Catechism accessible and engaging for listeners. The conversation concludes with insights on future directions for both the podcast and the conference. In this engaging conversation, the participants explore various themes including the future of their band, the importance of catechism, personal projects like book writing and PhD studies, the significance of prison ministry, upcoming conferences, and the role of appearance in ministry. They share insights on how to dress appropriately for ministry and the impact of personal presentation on one's effectiveness in preaching and teaching.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 03:03 Reflections on Twin Lakes Fellowship
• 05:58 Experiences and Insights from Twin Lakes
• 08:52 The Importance of Fellowship and Connection
• 12:05 Reformed Forum Conference Announcement
• 15:06 Exploring the Larger For Life Podcast
• 17:57 The Larger Catechism: A Deep Dive
• 21:07 Practical Applications of the Larger Catechism
• 23:56 Commentaries and Resources for the Larger Catechism
• 27:01 Humor and Theology in Conversations
• 29:59 Future Directions for the Podcast
• 37:16 The Future of the Band
• 39:24 The Importance of Catechism
• 40:49 Book Writing and Personal Projects
• 41:32 PhD Studies and Theological Contributions
• 43:49 Prison Ministry and Education
• 49:41 Upcoming Conferences and Events
• 51:14 Dressing for Ministry
• 01:01:23 The Role of Appearance in Ministry

In this installment of our Vos Group series, Camden Bucey welcomes Lane Tipton back to the studio for an in-depth discussion on Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology (pp. 372–374), focusing on the Kingdom of God. Together, they explore how the concept of the kingdom is foundational to Jesus’ public ministry and central to redemptive history.

Drawing from Vos’s text and the broader Reformed tradition, Lane and Camden unpack the eschatological character of the kingdom, its redemptive nature, and its Old Testament foundations. They trace how this theme unfolds from the prophets to the teachings of Christ, addressing modern misconceptions—ranging from liberal moralism to dispensational literalism—and emphasizing the kingdom’s spiritual and heavenly dimensions.

Listeners will gain fresh insight into key theological categories such as inaugurated eschatology, the continuity of redemptive history, and the contrast between earthly and heavenly expectations of the Messiah. Whether you’re new to Vos or a long-time student of Reformed theology, this episode offers deep encouragement and clarity on a subject that lies at the very heart of Scripture.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 04:35 The Kingdom of God in the Ministry of Jesus
• 07:12 The Eschatological and Redemptive Nature of the Kingdom
• 19:08 Kingdom Language in John vs. Synoptics
• 28:01 Salvation, Discipleship, and the Call to Radical Obedience
• 34:19 Kingdom in the Old Testament: Present and Future Dimensions
• 40:59 Future Kingdom in the OT: Abstract, Historical, Messianic
• 45:57 Jewish Expectations vs. Jesus’ Teaching on the Kingdom
• 52:13 Christ’s Kingdom: Heavenly, Spiritual, and Redemptive
• 57:08 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

On today's episode of Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob begin to walk through the Book of Daniel with some background and introductory thoughts.

This is the third lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, Calvinistic Trinitarianism: A Reformed Federalist Alternative to Thomistic Sacerdotalism. Register for this free on-demand course on our website to download supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-three additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/cal... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #trinity #reformedtheology

In this episode, Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey explore a pivotal moment in the history of American Presbyterianism: the Special Commission of 1925 and its investigation into the doctrinal unrest within the Presbyterian Church (USA). Appointed to address the growing tension between Modernists and Conservatives, the Commission aimed to preserve the church’s “purity, peace, unity, and progress.” However, for J. Gresham Machen, the Commission’s recommendations represented a profound failure to uphold biblical orthodoxy.

We explore how the Special Commission, composed of fifteen prominent ministers and ruling elders with deep ties to denominational institutions, prioritized unity over doctrinal clarity. Its influential members—such as Robert Speer, Mark Matthews, and Stated Clerk Lewis Mudge—were largely institutional loyalists who sought to preserve the church’s structural integrity and foster reconciliation rather than enforcing confessional standards. Despite Machen’s compelling plea for doctrinal faithfulness, the Commission framed the controversy as a misunderstanding of tolerance and authority rather than a fundamental theological crisis.

We’ll examine how Machen’s uncompromising opposition to modernism ultimately led to his suspension from the PCUSA and the formation of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in 1936. Along the way, we’ll discuss the broader implications of this controversy for American Presbyterianism, and how the decisions made during this period continue to influence Reformed denominations today.

Join us as we unpack the significance of the Special Commission of 1925 and consider what lessons it holds for maintaining orthodoxy in the midst of institutional pressure and theological compromise.

Watch on YouTube.

Links

• Report of the Special Commission of 1925
• Weston, Presbyterian Pluralism: Competition in a Protestant House

Participants: Camden Bucey, Danny Olinger

On today's episode of Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob begin to walk through the Book of Daniel with some background and introductory thoughts.

This is the second lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, Calvinistic Trinitarianism: A Reformed Federalist Alternative to Thomistic Sacerdotalism. Register for this free on-demand course on our website to download supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-three additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/cal... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #trinity #reformedtheology

In this thought-provoking episode, we welcome back Dr. Leonardo De Chirico, a leading Reformed evangelical theologian and pastor in Rome, for a consideration of the legacy and ongoing influence of Thomas Aquinas. Drawing from his recent book, Engaging with Thomas Aquinas: An Evangelical Approach (Apollos), Dr. De Chirico offers a critical yet charitable appraisal of Aquinas’s theological architecture and enduring impact on Roman Catholicism.

Together, Camden and Leonardo explore key themes such as the Catholic Church’s dual nature—Roman and Catholic—the evolving role of Thomism across church history, and the tensions within Roman Catholic thought on Vatican II and modernity. Listeners will also hear how Protestants have historically interacted with Aquinas and why an eclectic, biblically grounded engagement remains vital today.

This episode offers not only theological clarity but pastoral wisdom for evangelicals navigating the complexities of tradition, authority, and theological retrieval in a post-Reformation world.

Watch on YouTube.

Links

• Leonardo De Chirico, Engaging with Thomas Aquinas: An Evangelical Approach (Apollos)
• Vatican Files
• The Reformanda Initiative
• Rome Scholars and Leaders Network
• The Reformanda Initiative podcast

Participants: Camden Bucey, Leonardo De Chirico

If you lived in the ancient city of Ephesus, the most majestic structure that you would see on a daily basis would be the temple to the pagan goddess, Artemis. By all earthly standards, this temple was a magnificent structure. But if you were to ask your Christian neighbor, "What is the greatest structure in Ephesus?" He would no doubt answer, "Why of course, it's the church, the temple of the one, true, and living God. Let's go to worship and you can see for yourself!"  In Ephesians 2:20-22 the Apostle Paul describes the church as a holy temple in the Lord. In this episode of Proclaiming Christ, we consider the foundation, the materials, the builder, and the purpose of the grandest of all institutions, the church of the Lord Jesus Christ!

This is the first lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, Calvinistic Trinitarianism: A Reformed Federalist Alternative to Thomistic Sacerdotalism. Register for this free on-demand course on our website to download supplemental materials, track your progress, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-three additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/cal... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #johncalvin #trinity #reformedtheology

Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha jump on the livestream to share updates on several exciting initiatives at Reformed Forum. They discuss the development of new educational courses and publications, the expansion of international cohorts through Reformed Academy, and plans for the 2025 Reformed Forum Theology Conference.

Listeners will hear insights into the theological vision behind these efforts, including the importance of worship, biblical studies, connectionalism among Reformed ministers, and curating essential readings for robust ministerial training.

Subscribe to our magazine and email newsletter. Donate to support our global mission.

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Nicholas G. Piotrowski to discuss his book, Return from Exile and the Renewal of God’s People (Crossway). Throughout our conversation, Dr. Piotrowski unpacks the biblical theme of exile and return, demonstrating how it forms the central drama of Scripture—from Adam and Eve’s expulsion from Eden to the final restoration of God’s people in the new creation.

We explore how this theme echoes through the Psalms, the prophetic literature, and, most importantly, in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Dr. Piotrowski explains how Christ embodies the ultimate return from exile, fulfilling Israel’s hopes and opening the way for the church to experience renewal in the presence of God. We also discuss the implications of this theme for the mission of the church today, culminating in the final hope of God’s people dwelling with Him forever.

Join us as we trace this rich biblical-theological theme and consider how understanding exile and return shapes our reading of Scripture and our Christian walk.

Nicholas G. Piotrowski (PhD, Wheaton College) is the president of Indianapolis Theological Seminary where he also teaches hermeneutics and New Testament courses. His other books include In All the Scriptures and Matthew’s New David at the End of Exile.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 07:28 The Theme of Exile and Return
• 11:23 Why Is Exile and Return a Central Theme in Scripture
• 14:20 Exile and Return as the Bible’s Principal Theme
• 24:44 The Theme in the Psalms
• 29:29 Jesus’s Ministry as the Foreshocks of Return from Exile
• 35:02 Exilic Themes in the Ministry of Christ
• 44:19 The Mission of the Church and the Theme of Exile and Return
• 52:30 Coming Home
• 57:00 Conclusion

In Genesis 35 we have the “and back again” portion of Jacob's journey. He comes back to where he started. Jacob's journey back to Bethel marks the end of a larger story that had begun two decades ago. Everything that happened in between is now culminating in this place as God speaks to Jacob. At long last Jacob keeps his promise and God reaffirmed his covenant to him, changing his name from Jacob to Israel. This signifies the initial stages of a kingdom over which God will rule.

This is the tenth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 God with Us in the Context of the Covenant

3:33 Joy of Eternal Fellowship with God

10:52 Final Encouragement

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this episode of Reformed Forum Live, Camden Bucey speaks with Stephen Spanjer, a PCA minister serving in Neuenberg, Germany, with the Evangelical Reformed Church Westminster Confession (ERKWB). Stephen shares his fascinating journey of connecting Reformed theology, church planting, and baseball through his involvement with the Neuenberg Atomics baseball club.

Stephen discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of ministering in Germany, where clubs (orvereins) form a crucial part of social life. Through genuine relationships built over years of coaching and playing baseball, Stephen and his team have established credibility and meaningful connections with the local community.

Listeners will learn about Stephen’s approach to mission(s)—one rooted in vocation, authenticity, and long-term commitment. The conversation also highlights opportunities for short-term missions, internships, and how those passionate about baseball can serve the kingdom of God overseas.

Find out how you can get involved and explore what it means to live out your faith through sports and church ministry.

Links

• Neuenberg International Church
• Neuenberg Atomics baseball club

In this episode Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey continue their discussion of Geerhardus Vos’s Biblical Theology, focusing on pages 369–371. This section addresses Jesus’ teaching on the divine majesty and greatness, the retributive righteousness of God, and the implications for true religion.

Lane Tipton explains how Vos maintains the biblical tension between God’s transcendent majesty and his loving condescension. They discuss how Vos’s doctrine of God stands against the errors of theological liberalism, which often reduces the divine character to a single attribute of love divorced from holiness and righteousness. The conversation highlights how Jesus’ teaching does not abandon the concept of divine retribution but presents it as an essential and irreducible aspect of God’s nature.

Drawing connections to the contemporary theological landscape, Camden and Lane address modern tendencies to elevate divine love to the exclusion of justice. They also explore the ways in which Reformed theology provides a robust foundation for understanding God’s attributes in their fullness, without compromising his immutability or impassibility.

Listen in as they unpack Vos’s profound insights and demonstrate how they continue to speak to modern theological debates.

• 00:07 Introduction
• 07:41 Vos’s Critique of Liberalism
• 11:32 The Attributes of God
• 17:02 The Impassibility of God and Its Importance
• 28:19 True Religion and God’s Transcendence
• 33:04 The Retributive Righteousness of God
• 44:51 Practical Application
• 49:53 Conclusion

This is the ninth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 An Eternal Happily Ever After

2:49 New Jerusalem

9:42 Living in Light of Eternity

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

 #biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this special episode of Christ the Center, we commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS) with special guests Dr. Maynard Koerner and Wayne Johnson.

Dr. Koerner and Mr. Johnson take us on a historical journey through the origins, theological developments, and challenges that have shaped the RCUS over the past three centuries. From the church’s humble beginnings in colonial Pennsylvania, through the Mercersburg controversy, to the influx of Volga German immigrants, we explore how the RCUS has maintained a steadfast commitment to confessional Reformed theology.

We also discuss the upcoming tricentennial celebration in Rapid City, South Dakota, and reflect on the church’s present and future, its global mission work, and its deep connections with other Reformed bodies, including the OPC and Westminster Seminary.

Wayne Johnson is the Provost of City Seminary of Sacramento. He served as the editor of Leben Magazine from 2008–2018 and retired as CEO of Gateway Media in 2019. He has a BA in European History from Purdue University.

Dr. Maynard Koerner is the President of Heidelberg Theological Seminary and Associate Pastor of Trinity RCUS in Sioux Falls.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 03:32 The Tricentennial Celebration
• 04:50 The Colonial Era
• 11:06 Ecclesiastical Ties and Ministerial Training
• 20:07 Organization in 1747
• 28:23 The Mercersburg Controversy
• 38:46 The Volga/Black Sea German Immigration
• 42:31 The 1934 Merger
• 52:25 The RCUS Today
• 1:02:16 Conclusion

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 conclude our discussion of chapter XXX, the last chapter “The Resurrection, the Last Judgement, and the Final State.”

This is the eighth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 The Son of God Coming in the Fullness of Time

1:44 The Holy Spirit Indwells His People

5:40 The Great Commission

10:43 Sharing in Christ's Anointing

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this episode, we explore the biblical and historical foundations of Presbyterian church government through the lens of the three-office view—minister, ruling elder, and deacon. Joining us are two distinguished guests: Mark R. Brown, editor of Order in the Offices, and Gregory Edward Reynolds, contributor to the volume and editor of Ordained Servant: A Journal for Church Officers.

Together, we discuss the scriptural and theological arguments for distinguishing the minister of the Word from the ruling elder, why this distinction matters for the health of the church, and the modern challenges facing Presbyterian polity. Brown shares insights from his decades-long defense of the three-office view, while Reynolds unpacks his essay, "Democracy and the Denigration of Office," explaining how cultural influences have shaped and distorted church governance.

Whether you're a church officer, seminarian, or simply interested in Reformed ecclesiology, this conversation offers a compelling case for recovering the historic Presbyterian model of church leadership.

Mark R. Brown is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. He is a graduate of Geneva College and Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. After completing his seminary education in 1977, he planted Westminster Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, where he faithfully served as pastor for forty years until his retirement in 2017.

Greg Reynolds is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church who has served as a church planter and pastor in both New York and New Hampshire. Before entering the ministry, he worked in the field of architecture. In addition to his pastoral work, he is the editor of Ordained Servant: A Journal for Church Officers, where he has contributed numerous essays on ecclesiology and pastoral ministry. Reynolds is the author of The Word Is Worth a Thousand Pictures: Preaching in the Electronic Age, which explores the impact of media on preaching and worship. His academic background includes studies at the Boston Architectural College, the L’Abri Fellowship, Covenant College (BA, 1975), Westminster Theological Seminary (MDiv, 1979), and Westminster Seminary in California (DMin, 2001)​.

This is Christ the Center episode 899 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc899)

This is the seventh lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

 This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 Shift from Promise to Fulfillment

2:24 Jesus as the True Temple

8:28 The Resurrection and Ascension

13:22 Being Drawn Heavenward by Christ

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this episode we welcome Dr. Jean Decorvet and Dr. Kenneth Stewart to explore The Geneva Réveil, a significant yet often overlooked nineteenth-century evangelical revival that reshaped French-speaking Protestantism and left a lasting global impact. We discuss the origins, theological dynamics, and international reach of this movement, featured in the new volume, The Geneva Réveil in International Perspective.

Dr. Decorvet shares personal insights, including his family’s connection to Adolphe Monod—known as “the voice of the revival”—while Dr. Stewart highlights the fascinating transatlantic ties between the Réveil and American Presbyterianism. The conversation considers the blend of warm piety and Reformed orthodoxy that fueled the movement, its influence on hymnody, social reform (including the founding of the Red Cross), and the broader currents of nineteenth-century evangelicalism.

Listen to discover how the Geneva Réveil not only revitalized Francophone Protestantism but also shaped the course of global missions, theological education, and the enduring legacy of Reformed thought.

Chapters

• 00:00:07 Introduction
• 00:05:32 Familiarity with the Genevan Reveil
• 00:11:31 European Roots of the Evangelical Free Church
• 00:12:50 Historical Background and Context
• 00:17:52 Unique Aspects of the Genevan Reveil
• 00:22:02 Pietism and Calvinist Orthodoxy
• 00:28:53 The Reveil and Theological Liberalism
• 00:31:33 The Far-Reaching Effects of the Reveil
• 00:38:12 Roman Catholicism and the Reveil
• 00:44:17 American Presbyterian Influence on the Reveil
• 00:50:41 Louis Gaussen’s Influence
• 00:58:49 Looking to the Future
• 01:01:59 Conclusion

This is the sixth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 In the Days of Kings

4:14 God Sends His People into Exile

9:55 Promises of the New Covenant, New Jerusalem, and New Temple

16:09 Return from Exile

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In our weekly livestream for March 7, 2025, Camden Bucey first speaks with Jonathan Master about the upcoming Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary conference focused on pastoral ministry. They explore the theological significance of the pastoral office and the communal aspects of the conference.

In the second segment, Bucey speaks with David Noe, Tyson Watson, and Joan Crist about an innovative project centered on Calvin's Latin Bible. The panel details their collaborative work to make this important historical text more accessible to contemporary readers. They address the challenges of translation, their quality control processes, and the technological solutions they've developed.

Joan Crist shares her personal journey to Reformed theology and explains how their project includes resources for learning Latin while engaging with Reformed theological traditions. The conversation highlights the enduring importance of liturgy and Latin in theological education, while offering insights into future developments of their digital platform.

To learn more:

• GPTS Conference: The Pastor: His Call, Character, and Work
• Calvin's Latin Bible: Latin Per Diem
• Video Introduction: YouTube

In this episode we turn to Geerhardus Vos’s discussion on divine fatherhood as presented in Biblical Theology (pp. 365–369). Vos masterfully traces the theme of God’s fatherhood from the Old Testament to the New, demonstrating both its continuity and the profound transformation it undergoes in Jesus’ teaching.

We explore key theological distinctions, including:

• The development from a national to an individual application of fatherhood
• The redemptive, rather than universal, nature of divine sonship
• Jesus’ unique relationship with the Father and its implications for believers
• The eschatological significance of adoption into God’s family

Along the way, we challenge modern misconceptions about the fatherhood of God and discuss why Vos firmly rejects the notion of universal divine fatherhood. Join us as we uncover the richness of this biblical doctrine and consider its implications for the Christian life.

Watch on YouTube and Vimeo.

Chapters

• 00:07 Introduction
• 05:31 The Divine Fatherhood of God
• 10:37 Biblical References to God as Father
• 14:13 God as a Father to the Nation of Israel
• 17:26 The Scope of Divine Fatherhood
• 21:38 Divine Fatherhood Is Not a Macro-Attribute
• 24:26 The Redemptive and Eschatological Nature of Divine Fatherhood
• 29:45 God Relating to Believers as Father
• 34:23 Clarifications on Alleged Universal Fatherhood
• 38:37 Expansion of the Concept in the New Covenant
• 43:50 The Practical Import of Divine Fatherhood
• 46:59 Conclusion

This is Christ the Center episode 897 (https://www.reformedforum.org/ctc897)

What happens when you leave the people of God and venture to a far country? And when tragedy strikes there, is there any hope that God’s grace can restore what sin has devastated? Welcome to the book of Ruth, where we find curse and death but also God’s amazing grace. Ruth reveals the power of God’s grace in Christ to bring fullness where there was emptiness.

This is the fifth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

This lesson covers the following topics: 

0:00 Introduction

2:53 Entering the Promised Land

6:17 King David and the Tabernacle

9:29 Temple in Jerusalem Built by Solomon

14:54 Looking Forward to the New Jerusalem

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this livestreamed conversation, Camden Bucey, Lane Tipton, and Dan Borvan discuss various topics including the recent Reformed Forum seminar in Oklahoma City, office tchotchkes, the announcement of a new book, and the pressing issue of ministerial training and the shortage of pastors in the Reformed community.

They explore the implications of these challenges and share insights on how to address them moving forward. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of ministry, focusing on the reluctance of young men to relocate for vocational opportunities, the changing mindset towards ministry, and the need for proactive measures in raising future church leaders. They explore the challenges faced by churches in declining areas, the potential solutions such as merging congregations and bivocational ministry, and the future of ministerial education and credentialing.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction
• 05:04 Reflections on the Oklahoma City Seminar
• 09:33 Office Items and Fun Conversations
• 15:30 Announcement of New Book and Upcoming Conference
• 17:24 Discussion on Ministerial Training Crisis
• 26:31 The Reluctance to Relocate for Ministry
• 29:18 The Changing Mindset of Ministry Aspirants
• 33:24 Raising Up Future Leaders in the Church
• 39:22 Challenges of Supporting Ministers in Declining Areas
• 44:08 Exploring Solutions: Merging Churches and Bivocational Ministry
• 50:04 The Future of Ministerial Education and Credentialing

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.

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

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.”

This is the fourth lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. 

This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 Introduction

1:21 Exodus from Egypt

5:40 Purpose of the Tabernacle

10:50 Pattern of the Tabernacle

15:28 The Tabernacle as Reflection of Creation and Future Glory

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

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 complexities of 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.

This is the third lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 Banished with a Promise

3:13 Covenant with Noah

5:26 Pilgrim Days of Abraham

9:35 Altar at Mount Moriah

14:45 Altar at Bethel

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

Camden Bucey is joined by Bo Collins and Joe Cristman to discuss various topics related to their churches, upcoming events, and personal library management. They also touch on exciting developments in the PCA, including church planting efforts in North Carolina, and introduce Joe’s new YouTube channel, Take Up and Read, which focuses on literature and theology.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction
• 04:11 News and Updates
• 08:50 Personal Library Management and Book Recommendations
• 17:04 Loaning Books
• 25:55 Office Knick-Knacks
• 40:41 PCA Updates
• 52:22 New Podcast: Take Up and Read
• 55:54 Conclusion

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?

Join us as we discuss:

• Jesus’s unwavering affirmation of the Old Testament’s authority
• His unique role in fulfilling and interpreting the law
• The significance of his divine self-awareness in shaping redemptive history
• How Vos defends the integrity of biblical revelation against modern critiques
• The depth of Jesus’s teaching on the Fatherhood of God

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.

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.”

This is the second lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us.

This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 Creation

3:44 Covenant of Works

 7:13 Fall

10:35 Covenant of Grace

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful... Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

In this conversation, Camden Bucey, Ryan Noha, Lane Tipton, and Scott Cook discuss various themes surrounding Reformed apologetics, particularly focusing on the critique of Cornelius Van Til’s thought as presented in Keith Mathion’s book.

After highlighting Lane Tipton’s new book Union with Christ: The Benefits of His Suffering and Glory, they explore the challenges of understanding Van Til’s work, especially given his use of language and the philosophical context of his time. The discussion also touches on the relevance of Van Til’s thought in contemporary apologetics and the importance of engaging with the limitations of human language in theology.

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Welcome and Introduction
• 00:06:53 Lane’s New Book, Union with Christ
• 00:09:49 Van Til and Idealism
• 00:24:43 Critics of Van Til
• 00:38:28 Cunningham on Idealism
• 00:42:30 A Sale on Our Van Til Books
• 00:44:32 Van Til’s Critique of Adam’s False Ideal of Knowledge
• 00:47:46 Applying Van Til Today
• 00:57:01 Understanding Idealism
• 01:03:41 Conclusion

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.

Checking in from Scottsdale, Arizona, Camden Bucey discusses the Faith and Life Conference on worship and the themes of his upcoming talks. He reflects on recent podcast episodes, including discussions on ancient Near Eastern hero culture and the significance of animal imagery in biblical texts. The stream also touches on ethical considerations surrounding pet euthanasia, distinctions between the Reformed and Presbyterian family trees. We even daydream about a hunting excursion for people into Reformed theology.

This is the first lesson in Dr. Daniel Ragusa’s Reformed Academy course, Fullness of Joy: A Biblical Theology of God with Us. This lesson covers the following topics: 

0:00 Theme of Immanuel

2:16 What is God's Covenant?

5:31 Heidelberg Catechism 19

7:11 Good News Revealed by God Himself

10:23 Good News Revealed Concerning the Son

13:43 Good News Revealed in History

16:34 Good News Revealed Progressively

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-five additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/ful...

Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#biblicaltheology #Immanuel #reformedtheology

Join us for a fascinating conversation on biblical imagery. Dr. Michael Seufert, pastor at 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.

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

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.”

This is the eighth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton’s Reformed Academy course, Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation. This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 Jesus’ Promise to Send the Spirit

3:11 Union with Christ as Spiritual

6:42 Union with Christ by Faith

10:35 Union with Christ Effected by the Word of Truth

14:37 The Spirit as Guarantee of Our Inheritance

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-four additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/calvinism-the-plan-of-salvation/

Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#Calvinism #salvation #reformedtheology

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 member 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 its 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.

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

This is the seventh lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton’s Reformed Academy course, Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation. This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 The Historical Accomplishment of Redemption

2:57 The Blood of Christ as the Climax of Old Testament Redemption

6:26 Blood and the Forgiveness of Sins

8:14 Deliverance by Blood in the Book of Revelation

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-four additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/calvinism-the-plan-of-salvation/

Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#Calvinism #salvation #reformedtheology

In this lively Friday afternoon livestream recorded on January 17, 2025, Camden Bucey and a panel of guests discuss upcoming events, including Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary’s Confessional Conference, themed “The Pastor: His Call, Character, and Work.” The panel includes Pat Daly (Greenville Seminary), Stephen Spinnenweber (Westminster PCA, Jacksonville), Ryan Noha (Reformed Forum), and Carlton Wynne (Westminster PCA, Atlanta; Reformed Theological Seminary, Atlanta).

They preview the conference’s lineup, including talks on pastoral calling, ministry, and the broader applications of confessional theology.

Camden and Ryan highlight upcoming Reformed Forum events in Oklahoma City and California, offering opportunities to engage in robust theological discussions and fellowship.

Stephen shares insights from his current sermon series on the Book of Numbers, uncovering its rich ecclesiological and redemptive themes. The panel also reflects on the challenges of preaching through difficult books and the joy of revealing Christ in all of Scripture.

 

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Live Stream and Panel
• 03:00 Greenville Conference Overview
• 08:07 The Unique Community of the Greenville Conference
• 10:02 Carlton Wynne’s Insights on Pastoral Calling
• 15:54 Exploring the Nature of Pastoral Ministry
• 18:07 Upcoming Events and Future Plans
• 24:56 Fellowship and Worship Opportunities
• 26:45 Upcoming Conferences and Events
• 28:26 Memorable Experiences and Connections
• 30:11 Exploring Historical Figures and Their Impact
• 31:36 Engaging with Contemporary Discussions
• 33:08 Critiques and Insights on Apologetics
• 37:39 Theological Frameworks in Apologetics
• 41:09 Preaching Through Challenging Texts
• 42:00 Insights on the Book of Numbers
• 48:37 Exploring the Book of Numbers
• 50:12 The Impact of Preaching on Congregation
• 51:41 Challenges in Old Testament Preaching
• 54:15 The Aaronic Benediction and Its Significance
• 56:23 Resources for Preaching and Teaching
• 58:17 Introduction to Stephen’s Book
• 01:01:01 Understanding the Law of God
• 01:03:51 The Three Uses of the Law
• 01:06:12 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

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.

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

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."

This is the sixth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton’s Reformed Academy course, Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation. This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 Introduction

4:16 Present Union with Christ

9:18 Predestinarian Union with Christ

14:10 The Basis and Goal of Predestination

19:40 The Grace of God

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-four additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/calvinism-the-plan-of-salvation/

Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#Calvinism #salvation #reformedtheology

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.

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

This is the fifth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton’s Reformed Academy course, Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation. This lesson covers the following topics:

0:00 Introduction to Unconditional Election

5:06 Jacob I Loved, But Esau I Hated

12:27 The Prayer of the Tax Collector

16:57 Pharoah’s Heart Hardened

18:34 God’s Sovereign Election: Objections Answered

21:13 Pastoral Application of Unconditional Election

Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental materials, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to twenty-four additional five-hour video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/calvinism-the-plan-of-salvation/

Your donations enable us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you all across the world: https://reformedforum.org/donate/

#Calvinism #salvation #reformedtheology

Join us as we reflect on 2024 and look forward to what’s ahead for Reformed Forum in 2025! This livestream covers key updates, including:

📖 End-of-Year Wrap-Up

We share the results of our Equipped to Grow campaign, inspired by 2 Peter 3:18. Together, we’ve made significant progress toward our goals and reached supporters across 12 countries! 

🌐 Website Improvements

We’re working on a redesigned homepage and menu, part of our effort to make our distinctively Reformed and redemptive-historical resources more accessible to everyone. 

📚 Forthcoming Publications

Exciting updates on upcoming books, including Discovering Christ in All of Scripture, God’s Gift of Himself, and Union with Christ: The Benefits of His Suffering and Glory. 

📅 Upcoming Events

Mark your calendars for our Orange County meetup on January 25, 2025 and a special event in Oklahoma City on February 21–22, 2025. We’re eager to share these updates and continue pursuing our mission to support the church in presenting every person mature in Christ.

Watch a recording of the stream at https://youtube.com/live/DBZiM6CtGE0

In this episode, we look back upon the year and highlight clips from our ten most watched videos.

• 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