Stay ConnectedA podcast on the Westminster Larger Catechism, hosted by PCA Teaching Elders (Ministers) Matt Adams, Derrick Brite, Nick Bullock, Sean Morris, and Stephen Spinnenweber.
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In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #82-83:
Q. 82. What is the communion in glory which the members of the invisible church have with Christ?
A. The communion in glory which the members of the invisible church have with Christ, is in this life, immediately after death, and at last perfected at the resurrection and day of judgment.
Q. 83. What is the communion in glory with Christ which the members of the invisible church enjoy in this life?
A. The members of the invisible church have communicated to them in this life the firstfruits of glory with Christ, as they are members of him their head, and so in him are interested in that glory which he is fully possessed of; and, as an earnest thereof, enjoy the sense of God’s love, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, and hope of glory; as, on the contrary, sense of God’s revenging wrath, horror of conscience, and a fearful expectation of judgment, are to the wicked the beginning of their torments which they shall endure after death.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #80-81:
Q. 80. Can true believers be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace, and that they shall persevere therein unto salvation?
A. Such as truly believe in Christ, and endeavor to walk in all good conscience before him, may, without extraordinary revelation, by faith grounded upon the truth of God’s promises, and by the Spirit enabling them to discern in themselves those graces to which the promises of life are made, and bearing witness with their spirits that they are the children of God, be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace, and shall persevere therein unto salvation.
Q. 81. Are all true believers at all times assured of their present being in the estate of grace, and that they shall be saved?
A. Assurance of grace and salvation not being of the essence of faith, true believers may wait long before they obtain it; and, after the enjoyment thereof, may have it weakened and intermitted, through manifold distempers, sins, temptations, and desertions; yet are they never left without such a presence and support of the Spirit of God as keeps them from sinking into utter despair.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #78-79:
Q. 78. Whence ariseth the imperfection of sanctification in believers?
A. The imperfection of sanctification in believers ariseth from the remnants of sin abiding in every part of them, and the perpetual lustings of the flesh against the spirit; whereby they are often foiled with temptations, and fall into many sins, are hindered in all their spiritual services, and their best works are imperfect and defiled in the sight of God.
Q. 79. May not true believers, by reason of their imperfections, and the many temptations and sins they are overtaken with, fall away from the state of grace?
A. True believers, by reason of the unchangeable love of God, and his decree and covenant to give them perseverance, their inseparable union with Christ, his continual intercession for them, and the Spirit and seed of God abiding in them, can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace, but are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #77:
Q. 77. Wherein do justification and sanctification differ?
A. Although sanctification be inseparably joined with justification, yet they differ, in that God in justification imputeth the righteousness of Christ; in sanctification his Spirit infuseth grace, and enableth to the exercise thereof; in the former, sin is pardoned; in the other, it is subdued: the one doth equally free all believers from the revenging wrath of God, and that perfectly in this life, that they never fall into condemnation; the other is neither equal in all, nor in this life perfect in any, but growing up to perfection.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #76:
Q. 76. What is repentance unto life?
A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace, wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit and Word of God, whereby, out of the sight and sense, not only of the danger, but also of the filthiness and odiousness of his sins, and upon the apprehension of God’s mercy in Christ to such as are penitent, he so grieves for and hates his sins, as that he turns from them all to God, purposing and endeavoring constantly to walk with him in all the ways of new obedience.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #75:
Q. 75. What is sanctification?
A. Sanctification is a work of God’s grace, whereby they whom God hath, before the foundation of the world, chosen to be holy, are in time, through the powerful operation of his Spirit applying the death and resurrection of Christ unto them, renewed in their whole man after the image of God; having the seeds of repentance unto life, and all other saving graces, put into their hearts, and those graces so stirred up, increased, and strengthened, as that they more and more die unto sin, and rise unto newness of life.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #74:
Q. 74. What is adoption?
A. Adoption is an act of the free grace of God, in and for his only Son Jesus Christ, whereby all those that are justified are received into the number of his children, have his name put upon them, the Spirit of his Son given to them, are under his fatherly care and dispensations, admitted to all the liberties and privileges of the sons of God, made heirs of all the promises, and fellow-heirs with Christ in glory.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #72-73:
(accompanied today by the late, Southern summer symphony of lawnmowers and cicadas, as well as some highway travel background noise)
Q. 72. What is justifying faith?
A. Justifying faith is a saving grace, wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit and Word of God, whereby he, being convinced of his sin and misery, and of the disability in himself and all other creatures to recover him out of his lost condition, not only assenteth to the truth of the promise of the gospel, but receiveth and resteth upon Christ and his righteousness, therein held forth, for pardon of sin, and for the accepting and accounting of his person righteous in the sight of God for salvation.
Q. 73. How doth faith justify a sinner in the sight of God?
A. Faith justifies a sinner in the sight of God, not because of those other graces which do always accompany it, or of good works that are the fruits of it, nor as if the grace of faith, or any act thereof, were imputed to him for his justification; but only as it is an instrument by which he receiveth and applieth Christ and his righteousness.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #71:
Q. 71. How is justification an act of God’s free grace?
A. Although Christ, by his obedience and death, did make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God’s justice in the behalf of them that are justified; yet inasmuch as God accepteth the satisfaction from a surety, which he might have demanded of them, and did provide this surety, his own only Son, imputing his righteousness to them, and requiring nothing of them for their justification but faith, which also is his gift, their justification is to them of free grace.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #69-70:
Q. 69. What is the communion in grace which the members of the invisible church have with Christ?
A. The communion in grace which the members of the invisible church have with Christ, is their partaking of the virtue of his mediation, in their justification, adoption, sanctification, and whatever else, in this life, manifests their union with him.
Q. 70. What is justification?
A. Justification is an act of God’s free grace unto sinners, in which he pardoneth all their sins, accepteth and accounteth their persons righteous in his sight; not for anything wrought in them, or done by them, but only for the perfect obedience and full satisfaction of Christ, by God imputed to them, and received by faith alone.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #68:
Q. 68. Are the elect only effectually called?
A. All the elect, and they only, are effectually called; although others may be, and often are, outwardly called by the ministry of the word, and have some common operations of the Spirit; who, for their willful neglect and contempt of the grace offered to them, being justly left in their unbelief, do never truly come to Jesus Christ.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #67:
Q. 67. What is effectual calling?
A. Effectual calling is the work of God’s almighty power and grace, whereby (out of his free and special love to his elect, and from nothing in them moving him thereunto) he doth, in his accepted time, invite and draw them to Jesus Christ, by his word and Spirit; savingly enlightening their minds, renewing and powerfully determining their wills, so as they (although in themselves dead in sin) are hereby made willing and able freely to answer his call, and to accept and embrace the grace offered and conveyed therein.
In today's special episode of Larger for Life, Derrick, Sean, and Spin sit down with Ike Reeder, who serves as the President of Birmingham Theological Seminary, a ministry of Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama. Today, Ike discusses the recent launch of a new BTS initiative called the Reeder Center for Pastoral Studies, named in honor of the late Rev. Dr. Harry L. Reeder III, who went home to be with the Lord in May 2023.
Join in as we talk about the vision for and goals behind this new Center for Pastoral Studies at BTS, ministry, theological formation, confessional fidelity, cultural engagement, and things that all believers ought to be mindful of as we serve the Lord in our day and age.
In today's special episode of Larger for Life, Matt, Derrick, Nick, and Sean sit down with Aaron Halbert, who serves as a PCA missionary in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, to chat about Reformed and Presbyterian missionary efforts in that nation, as well as the pivotal role of the Westminster Confession and Catechisms when it comes to worship, discipleship, evangelism, and spiritual formation.
Join us for this good-hearted and encouraging discussion!
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #64-66:
Q. 64. What is the invisible church?
A. The invisible church is the whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one under Christ the head.
Q. 65. What special benefits do the members of the invisible church enjoy by Christ?
A. The members of the invisible church by Christ enjoy union and communion with him in grace and glory.
Q. 66. What is that union which the elect have with Christ?
A. The union which the elect have with Christ is the work of God’s grace, whereby they are spiritually and mystically, yet really and inseparably, joined to Christ as their head and husband; which is done in their effectual calling.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #62-63:
Q. 62. What is the visible church?
A. The visible church is a society made up of all such as in all ages and places of the world do profess the true religion, and of their children.
Q. 63. What are the special privileges of the visible church?
A. The visible church hath the privilege of being under God’s special care and government; of being protected and preserved in all ages, notwithstanding the opposition of all enemies; and of enjoying the communion of saints, the ordinary means of salvation, and offers of grace by Christ to all the members of it in the ministry of the gospel, testifying, that whosoever believes in him shall be saved, and excluding none that will come unto him.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #61:
Q. 61. Are all they saved who hear the gospel, and live in the church?
A. All that hear the gospel, and live in the visible church, are not saved; but they only who are true members of the church invisible.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #60:
Q. 60. Can they who have never heard the gospel, and so know not Jesus Christ, nor believe in him, be saved by their living according to the light of nature?
A. They who, having never heard the gospel, know not Jesus Christ, and believe not in him, cannot be saved, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature, or the laws of that religion which they profess; neither is there salvation in any other, but in Christ alone, who is the Savior only of his body the church.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #57-59:
Q. 57. What benefits hath Christ procured by his mediation?
A. Christ, by his mediation, hath procured redemption, with all other benefits of the covenant of grace.
Q. 58. How do we come to be made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured?
A. We are made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured, by the application of them unto us, which is the work especially of God the Holy Ghost.
Q. 59. Who are made partakers of redemption through Christ?
A. Redemption is certainly applied, and effectually communicated, to all those for whom Christ hath purchased it; who are in time by the Holy Ghost enabled to believe in Christ according to the gospel.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #56:
Q. 56. How is Christ to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world?
A. Christ is to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world, in that he, who was unjustly judged and condemned by wicked men, shall come again at the last day in great power, and in the full manifestation of his own glory, and of his Father’s, with all his holy angels, with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet of God, to judge the world in righteousness.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #54-55:
Q. 54. How is Christ exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God?
A. Christ is exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God, in that as God-man he is advanced to the highest favor with God the Father, with all fullness of joy, glory, and power over all things in heaven and earth; and doth gather and defend his church, and subdue their enemies; furnisheth his ministers and people with gifts and graces, and maketh intercession for them.
Q. 55. How doth Christ make intercession?
A. Christ maketh intercession, by his appearing in our nature continually before the Father in heaven, in the merit of his obedience and sacrifice on earth, declaring his will to have it applied to all believers; answering all accusations against them, and procuring for them quiet of conscience, notwithstanding daily failings, access with boldness to the throne of grace, and acceptance of their persons and services.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #53:
Q. 53. How was Christ exalted in his ascension?
A. Christ was exalted in his ascension, in that having after his resurrection often appeared unto and conversed with his apostles, speaking to them of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God, and giving them commission to preach the gospel to all nations, forty days after his resurrection, he, in our nature, and as our head, triumphing over enemies, visibly went up into the highest heavens, there to receive gifts for men, to raise up our affections thither, and to prepare a place for us, where himself is, and shall continue till his second coming at the end of the world.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #51-52:
Q. 51. What was the estate of Christ’s exaltation?
A. The estate of Christ’s exaltation comprehendeth his resurrection, ascension, sitting at the right hand of the Father, and his coming again to judge the world.
Q. 52. How was Christ exalted in his resurrection?
A. Christ was exalted in his resurrection, in that, not having seen corruption in death (of which it was not possible for him to be held), and having the very same body in which he suffered, with the essential properties thereof (but without mortality, and other common infirmities belonging to this life), really united to his soul, he rose again from the dead the third day by his own power; whereby he declared himself to be the Son of God, to have satisfied divine justice, to have vanquished death, and him that had power of it, and to be Lord of quick and dead: all which he did as a public person, the head of his church, for their justification, quickening in grace, support against enemies, and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at the last day.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #49-50:
Q. 49. How did Christ humble himself in his death?
A. Christ humbled himself in his death, in that having been betrayed by Judas, forsaken by his disciples, scorned and rejected by the world, condemned by Pilate, and tormented by his persecutors; having also conflicted with the terrors of death, and the powers of darkness, felt and borne the weight of God’s wrath, he laid down his life an offering for sin, enduring the painful, shameful, and cursed death of the cross.
Q. 50. Wherein consisted Christ’s humiliation after his death?
A. Christ’s humiliation after his death consisted in his being buried, and continuing in the state of the dead, and under the power of death till the third day; which hath been otherwise expressed in these words, He descended into hell.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #48:
Q. 48. How did Christ humble himself in his life?
A. Christ humbled himself in his life, by subjecting himself to the law, which he perfectly fulfilled; and by conflicting with the indignities of the world, temptations of Satan, and infirmities in his flesh, whether common to the nature of man, or particularly accompanying that his low condition.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #46-47:
Q. 46. What was the estate of Christ’s humiliation?
A. The estate of Christ’s humiliation was that low condition, wherein he for our sakes, emptying himself of his glory, took upon him the form of a servant, in his conception and birth, life, death, and after his death, until his resurrection.
Q. 47. How did Christ humble himself in his conception and birth?
A. Christ humbled himself in his conception and birth, in that, being from all eternity the Son of God, in the bosom of the Father, he was pleased in the fullness of time to become the son of man, made of a woman of low estate, and to be born of her; with divers circumstances of more than ordinary abasement.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #45:
Q. 45. How doth Christ execute the office of a king?
A. Christ executeth the office of a king, in calling out of the world a people to himself, and giving them officers, laws, and censures, by which he visibly governs them; in bestowing saving grace upon his elect, rewarding their obedience, and correcting them for their sins, preserving and supporting them under all their temptations and sufferings, restraining and overcoming all their enemies, and powerfully ordering all things for his own glory, and their good; and also in taking vengeance on the rest, who know not God, and obey not the gospel.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #44:
Q. 44. How doth Christ execute the office of a priest?
A. Christ executeth the office of a priest, in his once offering himself a sacrifice without spot to God, to be a reconciliation for the sins of the people; and in making continual intercession for them.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #43:
Q. 43. How doth Christ execute the office of a prophet?
A. Christ executeth the office of a prophet, in his revealing to the church, in all ages, by his Spirit and word, in divers ways of administration, the whole will of God, in all things concerning their edification and salvation.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #41-42:
(Apologies for some of the lower-quality microphone audio. We experienced some technical difficulties with a few of the microphones and didn't realize it until after the episode had been recorded)
Q. 41. Why was our mediator called Jesus?
A. Our mediator was called Jesus, because he saveth his people from their sins.
Q. 42. Why was our mediator called Christ?
A. Our mediator was called Christ, because he was anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure; and so set apart, and fully furnished with all authority and ability, to execute the offices of prophet, priest, and king of his church, in the estate both of his humiliation and exaltation.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #40:
Q. 40. Why was it requisite that the mediator should be God and man in one person?
A. It was requisite that the mediator, who was to reconcile God and man, should himself be both God and man, and this in one person, that the proper works of each nature might be accepted of God for us, and relied on by us, as the works of the whole person.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
Here's the link to the brief excerpt from the sermon by Sinclair Ferguson that Matt mentioned in this podcast episode: Why the God-Man? (youtube.com)
And here's the link to the full sermon by Dr. Ferguson, from Ligonier National Conference in 2011: Why the God-Man? by Sinclair Ferguson from Light & Heat: A Passion for the Holiness of God: 2011 National Conference (ligonier.org)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #39:
Q. 39. Why was it requisite that the mediator should be man?
A. It was requisite that the mediator should be man, that he might advance our nature, perform obedience to the law, suffer and make intercession for us in our nature, have a fellow-feeling of our infirmities; that we might receive the adoption of sons, and have comfort and access with boldness unto the throne of grace.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #38:
Q. 38. Why was it requisite that the mediator should be God?
A. It was requisite that the mediator should be God, that he might sustain and keep the human nature from sinking under the infinite wrath of God, and the power of death; give worth and efficacy to his sufferings, obedience, and intercession; and to satisfy God’s justice, procure his favor, purchase a peculiar people, give his Spirit to them, conquer all their enemies, and bring them to everlasting salvation.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #37:
Q. 37. How did Christ, being the Son of God, become man?
A. Christ the Son of God became man, by taking to himself a true body, and a reasonable soul, being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the virgin Mary, of her substance, and born of her, yet without sin.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #36:
Q. 36. Who is the mediator of the covenant of grace?
A. The only mediator of the covenant of grace is the Lord Jesus Christ, who, being the eternal Son of God, of one substance and equal with the Father, in the fullness of time became man, and so was and continues to be God and man, in two entire distinct natures, and one person, forever.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #33-35 (N.B.: this is part 2 of 2 on WLC #33-35):
Q. 33. Was the covenant of grace always administered after one and the same manner?
A. The covenant of grace was not always administered after the same manner, but the administrations of it under the Old Testament were different from those under the New.
Q. 34. How was the covenant of grace administered under the Old Testament?
A. The covenant of grace was administered under the Old Testament, by promises, prophecies, sacrifices, circumcision, the passover, and other types and ordinances, which did all foresignify Christ then to come, and were for that time sufficient to build up the elect in faith in the promised messiah, by whom they then had full remission of sin, and eternal salvation.
Q. 35. How is the covenant of grace administered under the New Testament?
A. Under the New Testament, when Christ the substance was exhibited, the same covenant of grace was and still is to be administered in the preaching of the word, and the administration of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s supper; in which grace and salvation are held forth in more fullness, evidence, and efficacy, to all nations.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #33-35 (N.B.: this is part 1 of 2 on WLC #33-35):
Q. 33. Was the covenant of grace always administered after one and the same manner?
A. The covenant of grace was not always administered after the same manner, but the administrations of it under the Old Testament were different from those under the New.
Q. 34. How was the covenant of grace administered under the Old Testament?
A. The covenant of grace was administered under the Old Testament, by promises, prophecies, sacrifices, circumcision, the passover, and other types and ordinances, which did all foresignify Christ then to come, and were for that time sufficient to build up the elect in faith in the promised messiah, by whom they then had full remission of sin, and eternal salvation.
Q. 35. How is the covenant of grace administered under the New Testament?
A. Under the New Testament, when Christ the substance was exhibited, the same covenant of grace was and still is to be administered in the preaching of the word, and the administration of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s supper; in which grace and salvation are held forth in more fullness, evidence, and efficacy, to all nations.
In today's special episode of Larger for Life, Matt, Stephen, and Sean sit down with Jonathan Cruse and Andrew Miller to chat about their recently published devotional book on the Westminster Shorter Catechism, Glorifying and Enjoying God: 52 Devotions through the Westminster Shorter Catechism published by Reformation Heritage Books.
Join us for this good-hearted and encouraging discussion!
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #31-32:
Q. 31. With whom was the covenant of grace made?
A. The covenant of grace was made with Christ as the second Adam, and in him with all the elect as his seed.
Q. 32. How is the grace of God manifested in the second covenant?
A. The grace of God is manifested in the second covenant, in that he freely provideth and offereth to sinners a mediator, and life and salvation by him; and requiring faith as the condition to interest them in him, promiseth and giveth his Holy Spirit to all his elect, to work in them that faith, with all other saving graces; and to enable them unto all holy obedience, as the evidence of the truth of their faith and thankfulness to God, and as the way which he hath appointed them to salvation.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #30:
Q. 30. Doth God leave all mankind to perish in the estate of sin and misery?
A. God doth not leave all men to perish in the estate of sin and misery, into which they fell by the breach of the first covenant, commonly called the covenant of works; but of his mere love and mercy delivereth his elect out of it, and bringeth them into an estate of salvation by the second covenant, commonly called the covenant of grace.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #28-29:
Q. 28. What are the punishments of sin in this world?
A. The punishments of sin in this world are either inward, as blindness of mind, a reprobate sense, strong delusions, hardness of heart, horror of conscience, and vile affections; or outward, as the curse of God upon the creatures for our sakes, and all other evils that befall us in our bodies, names, estates, relations, and employments; together with death itself.
Q. 29. What are the punishments of sin in the world to come?
A. The punishments of sin in the world to come, are everlasting separation from the comfortable presence of God, and most grievous torments in soul and body, without intermission, in hell-fire forever.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #26-27:
Q. 26. How is original sin conveyed from our first parents unto their posterity?
A. Original sin is conveyed from our first parents unto their posterity by natural generation, so as all that proceed from them in that way are conceived and born in sin.
Q. 27. What misery did the fall bring upon mankind?
A. The fall brought upon mankind the loss of communion with God, his displeasure and curse; so as we are by nature children of wrath, bond slaves to Satan, and justly liable to all punishments in this world, and that which is to come.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #25:
Q. 25. Wherein consisteth the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell?
A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consisteth in the guilt of Adam’s first sin, the want of that righteousness wherein he was created, and the corruption of his nature, whereby he is utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite unto all that is spiritually good, and wholly inclined to all evil, and that continually; which is commonly called original sin, and from which do proceed all actual transgressions.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
*A special bonus episode to help pass the time on your holiday road trip or while you're sitting endlessly on the airport runway*
In today's special episode of Larger for Life, Sean is joined by Brad Isbell of Presbycast, and they sit down with Dr. T. David Gordon, who is now retired from Grove City College, to chat about two of his well-known popular books: Why Johnny Can't Preach and Why Johnny Can't Sing Hymns.
Recording live from the Reformation & Worship Conference hosted at Midway Presbyterian Church in Powder Springs, Georgia, Dr. Gordon took some time to talk about what prompted him to write these two books, the state of preaching and congregational singing in the Reformed church (and the church more broadly) and whether things have improved, and how Christians might continue to thoughtfully labor for greater growth in these areas.
Be sure to listen on this fascinating, good-hearted, and encouraging discussion!
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #24:
Q. 24. What is sin?
A. Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of, any law of God, given as a rule to the reasonable creature.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #21-23:
(Apologies for some of the lower-quality microphone audio. We experienced some technical difficulties with a few of the microphones and didn't realize it until after the episode had been recorded)
Q. 21. Did man continue in that estate wherein God at first created him?
A. Our first parents being left to the freedom of their own will, through the temptation of Satan, transgressed the commandment of God in eating the forbidden fruit; and thereby fell from the estate of innocency wherein they were created.
Q. 22. Did all mankind fall in that first transgression?
A. The covenant being made with Adam as a public person, not for himself only, but for his posterity, all mankind descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell with him in that first transgression.
Q. 23. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind?
A. The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery.
In today's special episode of Larger for Life, Sean is joined by Brad Isbell of Presbycast, and they sit down with Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn of Reformed Theological Seminary (Charlotte) to chat about all things Larger Catechism related.
Recording live from the Reformation & Worship Conference hosted at Midway Presbyterian Church in Powder Springs, Georgia, Dr. Van Dixhoorn took some time to talk about his own studies and research on the Westminster Assembly, the historical background leading up to the work of the Assembly, the place of the Larger Catechism in the body of materials produced by the Westminster Divines, and the use and impact of the Larger Catechism in Presbyterianism more broadly.
Be sure to listen on this fascinating, good-hearted, and encouraging discussion!
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #18-20:
Q. 18. What are God’s works of providence?
A. God’s works of providence are his most holy, wise, and powerful preserving and governing all his creatures; ordering them, and all their actions, to his own glory.
Q. 19. What is God’s providence towards the angels?
A. God by his providence permitted some of the angels, willfully and irrecoverably, to fall into sin and damnation, limiting and ordering that, and all their sins, to his own glory; and established the rest in holiness and happiness; employing them all, at his pleasure, in the administrations of his power, mercy, and justice.
Q. 20. What was the providence of God toward man in the estate in which he was created?
A. The providence of God toward man in the estate in which he was created, was the placing him in paradise, appointing him to dress it, giving him liberty to eat of the fruit of the earth; putting the creatures under his dominion, and ordaining marriage for his help; affording him communion with himself; instituting the Sabbath; entering into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience, of which the tree of life was a pledge; and forbidding to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon the pain of death.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #15-17:
Q. 15. What is the work of creation?
A. The work of creation is that wherein God did in the beginning, by the word of his power, make of nothing the world, and all things therein, for himself, within the space of six days, and all very good.
Q. 16. How did God create angels?
A. God created all the angels spirits, immortal, holy, excelling in knowledge, mighty in power, to execute his commandments, and to praise his name, yet subject to change.
Q. 17. How did God create man?
A. After God had made all other creatures, he created man male and female; formed the body of the man of the dust of the ground, and the woman of the rib of the man, endued them with living, reasonable, and immortal souls; made them after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness; having the law of God written in their hearts, and power to fulfill it, and dominion over the creatures; yet subject to fall.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #14:
Q. 14. How doth God execute his decrees?
A. God executeth his decrees in the works of creation and providence, according to his infallible foreknowledge, and the free and immutable counsel of his own will.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #13:
Q. 13. What hath God especially decreed concerning angels and men?
A. God, by an eternal and immutable decree, out of his mere love, for the praise of his glorious grace, to be manifested in due time, hath elected some angels to glory; and in Christ hath chosen some men to eternal life, and the means thereof: and also, according to his sovereign power, and the unsearchable counsel of his own will (whereby he extendeth or withholdeth favor as he pleaseth), hath passed by and foreordained the rest to dishonor and wrath, to be for their sin inflicted, to the praise of the glory of his justice.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #12:
Q. 12. What are the decrees of God?
A. God’s decrees are the wise, free, and holy acts of the counsel of his will, whereby, from all eternity, he hath, for his own glory, unchangeably foreordained whatsoever comes to pass in time, especially concerning angels and men.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #11:
Q. 11. How doth it appear that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equal with the Father?
A. The Scriptures manifest that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equal with the Father, ascribing unto them such names, attributes, works, and worship, as are proper to God only.
A few recommended Systematic Theological resources as mentioned at the end of the episode, especially as pertains to our discussion of God as Trinity:
Athanasius, Select Works
Augustine, On the Trinity
John Calvin, Institutes of the Christian Religion, Book One
Petrus van Mastricht, Theoretical-Practical Theology, Volume 2: Faith in the Triune God
Francis Turretin, Institutes of Elenctic Theology, Volume 1
Wilhelmus à Brakel, The Christian's Reasonable Service, Volume 1: God, Man, and Christ
Herman Bavinck, Reformed Dogmatics, Vol. 2: God and Creation
Louis Berkhof, Systematic Theology
Douglas F. Kelly, Systematic Theology (Volume 1): The God Who Is - The Holy Trinity
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #10:
Q. 10. What are the personal properties of the three persons in the Godhead?
A. It is proper to the Father to beget the Son, and to the Son to be begotten of the Father, and to the Holy Ghost to proceed from the Father and the Son from all eternity.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Questions #8 and 9:
Q. 8. Are there more Gods than one?
A. There is but one only, the living and true God.
Q. 9. How many persons are there in the Godhead?
A. There be three persons in the Godhead, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one true, eternal God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory; although distinguished by their personal properties.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #7 (N.B.: this is the fourth of four episodes on this question, as WLC #7 lends itself to some lengthy and edifying discussion as we consider the various attributes and descriptors of God as they are highlighted in the Catechism):
Q. 7. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, in and of himself infinite in being, glory, blessedness, and perfection; all-sufficient, eternal, unchangeable, incomprehensible, everywhere present, almighty, knowing all things, most wise, most holy, most just, most merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #7 (N.B.: this is the third of four episodes on this question, as WLC #7 lends itself to some lengthy and edifying discussion as we consider the various attributes and descriptors of God as they are highlighted in the Catechism):
Q. 7. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, in and of himself infinite in being, glory, blessedness, and perfection; all-sufficient, eternal, unchangeable, incomprehensible, everywhere present, almighty, knowing all things, most wise, most holy, most just, most merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #7 (N.B.: this is the second of four episodes on this question, as WLC #7 lends itself to some lengthy and edifying discussion as we consider the various attributes and descriptors of God as they are highlighted in the Catechism):
Q. 7. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, in and of himself infinite in being, glory, blessedness, and perfection; all-sufficient, eternal, unchangeable, incomprehensible, everywhere present, almighty, knowing all things, most wise, most holy, most just, most merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #7 (N.B.: this is the first of several episodes on this question, as WLC #7 lends itself to some lengthy and edifying discussion as we consider the various attributes and descriptors of God as they are highlighted in the Catechism):
Q. 7. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, in and of himself infinite in being, glory, blessedness, and perfection; all-sufficient, eternal, unchangeable, incomprehensible, everywhere present, almighty, knowing all things, most wise, most holy, most just, most merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #6:
WHAT MAN OUGHT TO BELIEVE CONCERNING GOD
Q. 6. What do the Scriptures make known of God?
A. The Scriptures make known what God is, the persons in the Godhead, his decrees, and the execution of his decrees.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #5:
Q. 5. What do the Scriptures principally teach?
A. The Scriptures principally teach what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man.
(Stay tuned to the end for information on a free giveaway and how you can enter to win!)
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #4:
Q. 4. How doth it appear that the Scriptures are the Word of God?
A. The Scriptures manifest themselves to be the Word of God, by their majesty and purity; by the consent of all the parts, and the scope of the whole, which is to give all glory to God; by their light and power to convince and convert sinners, to comfort and build up believers unto salvation: but the Spirit of God bearing witness by and with the Scriptures in the heart of man, is alone able fully to persuade it that they are the very Word of God.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #3:
Q. 3. What is the Word of God?
A. The Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are the Word of God, the only rule of faith and obedience.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts continue their study and discussion through the Catechism, this time examining Westminster Larger Catechism Question #2:
Q. 2. How doth it appear that there is a God?
A. The very light of nature in man, and the works of God, declare plainly that there is a God; but his word and Spirit only do sufficiently and effectually reveal him unto men for their salvation.
In this episode of Larger for Life, our hosts dive in to the catechism proper and begin by discussing the theological and pastoral groundings and implications of Westminster Larger Catechism Question #1:
Q. 1. What is the chief and highest end of man?
A. Man’s chief and highest end is to glorify God, and fully to enjoy him forever.
The inaugural episode of Larger For Life has our hosts together on the eve of the PCA General Assembly 2023 in Memphis, Tenn. In this episode, Matt, Derrick, Nick, Sean, and Spin introduce themselves to our listeners and describe their hopes and aspirations for this podcast endeavor. Stay tuned to the end as an unexpected Welsh guest makes a surprise appearance...
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