This is the home of Reformed Forum’s podcasts—Christ-centered, confessionally Reformed conversations and teaching shaped by redemptive-historical theology. Warm, accessible, and theologically rigorous, our shows aim to equip the global Church toward maturity in Christ—helping listeners trace the unfolding story of redemption in Scripture and find trusted guides along the way.
The Great Commission and God’s Unfolding Plan for the Nations
Jul 26, 2024
Show notes
In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy discuss the profound theme of the Great Commission and God’s overarching plan for the nations. This conversation serves as a follow-up to a pre-conference event held at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in March as well as a prelude to Reformed Forum’s upcoming annual theology conference, set for September 28, 2024, in Grayslake, Illinois.
Camden and Jim discuss the biblical foundations of the Great Commission, tracing its roots from the Old Testament through to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. They emphasize the continuity of God’s redemptive plan, highlighting key scriptural passages such as Matthew 28:18-20 and Isaiah 2:2-4, and unpack the theological significance of the inclusion of Gentiles as seen through the line of Japheth.
Listeners will gain insights into the unity of Scripture, the role of the ordinary means of grace, and the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to gather His people from every nation into His heavenly kingdom. This episode also provides practical encouragement for engaging in missions, both locally and globally, and underscores the importance of the Great Commission in the life of the church.
Join us for this enriching theological discussion that prepares the heart and mind for a deeper understanding of God’s unfolding plan for the nations.
Reformation Studies, Latin, and the H. Henry Meeter Center
Jul 19, 2024
Show notes
In this episode of Christ the Center, Camden Bucey speaks with Dr. David Noe, pastor of Reformation Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Grand Rapids and former faculty member at Calvin University. They discuss Dr. Noe’s work at the H. Henry Meeter Center for Calvin Studies, focusing on his recent workshop and the enduring significance of classical studies for understanding the Reformed theological tradition.
Join us as we discuss the importance of Latin scholarship, the influence of classical authors on Reformation thought, and the challenges and rewards of engaging with historical theological texts. This conversation highlights the value of communal learning and the timeless relevance of studying foundational Christian doctrines in their original languages.
Dr. Noe is also the Latin editor for the Confessional Presbyterian Journal, and his online pedagogy for Latin, Greek, and Classics generally can be found at LatinPerDiem.com, MossMethod.com, and AdNavseam.com.
Chapters
00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:13 Working with Other Scholars
00:11:12 A Recent Latin Workshop at the Meeter Center
00:20:08 Seeing Scholarship in Process
00:24:09 Imitating the Education of the Reformers
00:34:33 Day 1: Cicero, Seneca, Lactantius
00:41:48 Day 2: Augustine, Bernard of Clairveaux, Thomas Aquinas
00:49:01 Day 3: Lorenzo Valla, Guillaume Bude, and Erasmus
Exploring the Doctrine of Inseparable Operations
Jul 12, 2024
Show notes
In this engaging episode, we explore the intricate and profound world of Trinitarian theology with theologian Adonis Vidu. Join us as we explore the key themes and arguments from his latest book, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology (Eerdmans). Vidu passionately defends the doctrine of inseparable operations, which asserts that all actions of the Trinity are unified and indivisible. Through this doctrine, we gain a deeper understanding of the unity and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Throughout our conversation, Vidu traces the development, challenges, and implications of inseparable operations from biblical foundations and patristic contributions to contemporary theological debates. We address various objections, particularly concerning the incarnation and atonement, and demonstrate how this doctrine can coherently explain complex theological concepts while preserving the unity and distinction within the Trinity.
Adonis Vidu serves as Andrew Mutch Distinguished Professor of Theology at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where his research and teaching focus on the intersections of historical and contemporary theological thought. Vidu holds a Ph.D. in Theology and Religious Studies from King’s College London, and he has authored several influential works, including Atonement, Law, and Justice: The Cross in Historical and Cultural Contexts and the subject of this conversation, The Same God Who Works All Things: Inseparable Operations in Trinitarian Theology.
Watch or listen to gain invaluable insights from one of today’s leading theological minds as we explore the profound depths of Trinitarian theology and its relevance for contemporary Christian life and thought. Whether you’re a seasoned theologian or simply curious about the intricacies of faith, this episode promises to be both enlightening and thought-provoking.
Chapters
00:00:07 Introduction
00:03:55 Introducing Inseparable Operations
00:08:40 Theological Grammar
00:14:10 Biblical Teaching on Inseparable Operations
00:18:41 The Patristic Tradition
00:22:19 The Rise and Decline of the Doctrine in History
00:32:49 Augustine and Aquinas
00:39:14 The Incarnation of the Son
00:43:14 The Person of the Son
00:50:46 The Atonement
00:56:41 The Holy Spirit
01:03:23 Our Experience of God in the Christian Life
Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Word of God and the Sacraments in General
Jul 10, 2024
Show notes
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We continue our discussion of chapter XXV, “The Word of God and the Sacraments in General.” In this episode, we mostly talk about the nature of a sacrament as a means of grace.
Genesis 34 — Rape and Retribution
Jul 10, 2024
Show notes
Something significant is missing in Genesis 34 as we read one of the most shocking stories of Scripture. How do you preach Christ in a text where a violent act is met with severe retribution? Are Jacob’s sons exercising just judgment or personal revenge? Does this episode parallel the later conquest of Canaan? We seek to answer these questions and show how the ravages of sin can be undone; how the unclean can be made clean. There is good news for the Christian in this dreadful story.
Vos Group #90 — Four Divisions of Revelation by Christ
Jul 05, 2024
Show notes
Join us as we discuss the four divisions of revelation by Christ beginning on p. 344 in Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. We will unpack Vos’s comprehensive categorization of revelation by Christ, which he divides into four distinct yet interconnected periods:
Natural or General Revelation: Extending from creation and continuing indefinitely, revealing God’s nature and attributes through the world around us.
Old Testament Revelation: Spanning from the entrance of sin to the incarnation, highlighting God’s redemptive plan through the history and prophecy of the Old Testament.
Revelation during Christ’s Earthly Ministry: Covering his life, teaching, miracles, death, resurrection, and ascension, manifesting the fullness of God in human form.
Revelation through His Chosen Servants: Extending from Christ’s ascension to the death of the last apostle, communicated through the inspired writings and teachings of his disciples under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
We explore how these revelations unfold in a linear, biblical-theological manner, emphasizing Christ’s activity before and after the incarnation. We discuss the significance of natural revelation, the pivotal moments of Old Testament prophecy, the profound truths revealed during Christ’s ministry, and the ongoing impact of apostolic teaching.
Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the coherence and unity of God’s redemptive plan as revealed in Scripture. We also reflect on the continuing relevance of these revelations for the church today and how they inform our worship, theology, and daily living.
Chapters
00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:34 The Essential Revelatory Function of the Logos
00:04:50 The Four Divisions of Revelation by Christ
00:13:11 Natural/General Revelation
00:26:36 The Prologue to John’s Gospel
00:33:25 Revelation under the Economy of the Old Testament
Ephesians 2:11–19 — Brought Near in Christ
Jul 03, 2024
Show notes
Paul calls upon his readers to remember five realities of their former life: separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, strangers to the covenants, having no hope, and without God. But the glorious good news is “BUT NOW in Christ Jesus” those who were far off have been brought near. Jesus, through his death and resurrection, has reconciled the repentant sinner to God, so that he is no longer a stranger, but a member of God’s household.
The Reformed Church in the Philippines
Jun 28, 2024
Show notes
In this episode, Camden Bucey connects with Jim Cassidy, pastor of South Austin OPC and president of the Reformed Forum board, to discuss global theological education and Reformed missions. Dr. Cassidy shares insights from his recent trip to the Philippines, where he taught Reformed theology to village pastors and engaged with local congregations deeply committed to confessional Reformed theology.
The conversation highlights the vibrant yet challenging landscape of Reformed education in the Philippines. Dr. Cassidy details his work with Heidelberg Seminary and the Pearl of the Orient Covenant Reformed Church, emphasizing the growing hunger for robust theological training in a predominantly Roman Catholic country. The episode underscores the vital role of Reformed Forum’s online resources, which provide accessible, high-quality theological education to students worldwide.
Join us as we explore the current state of Reformed missions, the unique challenges faced by international churches, and the strategic importance of theological education in cultivating a mature, self-sustaining global Reformed community. This episode is a compelling look at how God is using modern technology and faithful teaching to spread the gospel and strengthen the global church.
Listen in for a thoughtful discussion on the future of Reformed education, the impact of Reformed Forum’s resources, and the ongoing mission to equip believers worldwide with sound doctrine.
Chapters
00:07 Introduction
04:57 The Reformed Labors in Philippines
14:52 The Need for an Established On-Site Seminary
22:18 The History of Reformed Missions in Philippines
28:10 Ministerial Training and Church Planting
37:29 International Awareness of Theological Issues
39:47 Providing Resources to People Hungry for Reformed Theology
Global Theological Education
Jun 21, 2024
Show notes
In this episode, we approach the critical topic of Reformed global theological education and discipleship. Join us as we explore the unique challenges and incredible opportunities present in various regions around the world, including Hungary, Latvia, Germany, Moldova, and beyond.
We’ll hear insights from Reformed pastors and missionaries, who share their experiences and perspectives on the cultural, linguistic, and practical aspects of providing robust theological training in diverse contexts.
Tune in for a compelling discussion that not only highlights the needs but also presents actionable steps and opportunities for making a significant impact in the global Reformed community. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or someone passionate about theological education, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for contributing to the advancement of Reformed theology worldwide.
Chapters
00:00:06 Introduction
00:01:44 An Update on Global Theological Education
00:04:31 Recent Travel for Reformed Forum
00:07:33 Summary of Conversations with Pastors and Missionaries
00:24:14 Supporting Global Theological Education
00:30:45 Paul Sanduleac, Moldova
00:37:07 Raul Profire, Romania
00:42:29 Jaroslav, Belarus
00:48:26 Artis Celmins, Latvia
00:53:49 Imre Szöke, Hungary
01:02:47 Peter Szabo, Hungary
01:03:40 Andreas Repp, Germany
01:13:56 Jonathan Master of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Word of God and the Sacraments in General
Jun 18, 2024
Show notes
This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We begin a discussion of chapter XXV, “The Word of God and the Sacraments in General.” In this episode, we start to talk about the means of grace.