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.
Vos Group #88 — Temptability and Peccability
May 03, 2024
Show notes
In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the intriguing account of Jesus’ temptation by Satan in the wilderness. Join us as we explore the profound insights offered by Geerhardus Vos on pages 339–342 in his work Biblical Theology and unpack the ultimate issue at stake in this cosmic confrontation: Who should be God, and whose Messiah would Jesus be?
We grapple with the perplexing questions surrounding Jesus’ temptability and peccability. How could a sinless Jesus be tempted, and what does this imply about his ability to sin? We examine Vos’s argument that the things Satan suggested were not inherently sinful, only wrong due to God’s prohibition, and consider how this differs from modern interpretations that see the temptations as allurements towards a worldly, political messianic role.
Vos’s work invites us to ponder the profound mystery of a fully human Jesus who is intimately united with the Holy Spirit and possesses a divine nature. We consider how these unique aspects of Jesus’ identity make his sinlessness even more unthinkable than Adam’s, and we wrestle with the implications for our understanding of Jesus’ impeccability.
Through a careful analysis of Vos’s insights and a lively discussion of the theological complexities involved, we aim to shed light on this pivotal moment in Jesus’ earthly mission and its significance for our faith. Join us as we explore the depths of Jesus’ commitment to the path of humiliation and suffering, and the ultimate triumph of his messianic glory.
Chapters
00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:33 Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation
00:07:31 Camden’s Trip to Budapest and Vienna
00:14:09 Temptability and Peccability
00:22:50 Bavinck and Vos on the Person of the Son
00:37:59 The Nature of Jesus’ Temptation
00:42:48 Other Theories of the Messianic Nature of the Temptation
00:46:41 Christ’s Victory Comes through Suffering unto Glory
Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Government and Power of the Church, Part 1
Apr 30, 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 XXIV, “The Government and Power of the Church.” In this episode, we begin a discussion of church government of Christ’s church beginning with Christ as head of the church and the church officers.
Van Til and the Foundation of Christian Ethics
Apr 26, 2024
Show notes
In this episode, we welcome Scott J. Hatch, author of Reformed Forum’s latest publication, Van Til and the Foundation of Christian Ethics: A God-Centered Approach to Moral Philosophy, to consider the profound relationship between theology and ethics as articulated by Cornelius Van Til. In addition to providing an original treatment of the subject, Hatch has also edited a critical edition of Van Til’s Christian-Theistic Ethics, which is included as a lengthy appendix in this volume. This never before been available, and anyone interested in the thought of Cornelius Van Til should surely get a copy for their library.
This insightful conversation illuminates Van Til’s unique approach to Christian ethics, emphasizing a God-centered moral philosophy grounded in the doctrine of the self-contained ontological Trinity. Hatch explores Van Til’s critique of moral relativism and how his theological framework offers a compelling solution to ethical dilemmas, contrasting with the perspectives of other ethicists and theologians.
The episode promises to enrich understanding of Christian ethics through the lens of Reformed theology, challenging believers to consider the foundational role of the Triune God in all moral considerations. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of how Cornelius Van Til’s groundbreaking work continues to shape contemporary discussions on Christian ethics, offering a robust, God-centered approach that speaks to the challenges of modern moral relativism.
Chapters
00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:12 Being Introduced to Cornelius Van Til’s Theology and Apologetics
00:09:54 Versions of Van Til’s Ethics
00:21:24 The Uniqueness of Van Til’s Ethical Approach
00:28:42 Ethics and the Doctrine of God
00:36:44 Alasdair MacIntryre and Critiques of Moral Relativism
00:45:11 Critiques and Misunderstandings of Van Til’s Ethics
Ministering to Those Affected by Sexual Sin
Apr 19, 2024
Show notes
We welcome Mark Sanders, President of Harvest USA, for an enriching dialogue on confronting and healing from sexual brokenness within the church. As our society grapples with rapidly evolving norms around gender and sexuality, the church is called to respond with both theological depth and compassionate outreach. Harvest USA stands at the forefront of this mission, offering resources, discipleship, and education to equip believers to address these challenges through the lens of Reformed theology.
Throughout this conversation, Camden Bucey and Mark Sanders discuss the significance of understanding our identity in Christ and how it shapes our approach to sexual ethics. They discuss the “Harvest Tree” model—a comprehensive biblical framework employed by Harvest USA to aid individuals and families in navigating sexual brokenness with biblical fidelity. The episode also spotlights new initiatives from Harvest USA, including free courses designed to assist parents in raising sexually faithful children and addressing gender confusion with grace and truth.
Listeners will gain insights into the theological underpinnings that guide Harvest USA‘s ministry, emphasizing the importance of a proper ecclesiology and a biblically grounded anthropology. This episode not only addresses the pressing issues of our time but also offers hope and direction for the church to minister effectively in a culture of confusion and search for identity.
Join us for an enlightening discussion that bridges deep theological concepts with practical application, illuminating the path toward healing and wholeness in Christ amidst a world of sexual and gender confusion. Visit harvestusa.org for more resources and information on how you can engage with this important ministry.
Training and Equipping Missionaries
Apr 12, 2024
Show notes
Christ the Center is on the road as Camden Bucey speaks with two guests from the Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary Conference. This episode explores Reformed theology and its profound impact on missions. Camden is joined by Chad Vegas, founding pastor of Sovereign Grace Church and founding board chairman of Radius International, along with Jonathan Master, president of Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, to explore the vital relationship between theological education and missionary work.
The conversation covers a broad spectrum, from the excitement surrounding the seminary’s annual spring conference to the innovative partnership between Greenville Seminary and Radius International, aimed at equipping the next generation for church planting among unreached language groups. Chad Vegas also shares his personal journey from a dispensationalist background to embracing Reformed theology and the inception of Radius International. This episode sheds light on the challenges and strategies of missionary work, emphasizing the necessity of a solid biblical foundation, cultural sensitivity, and the indispensable role of the local church in sending and supporting missionaries. Join us for an engaging discussion that reaffirms the vital role of Reformed theology in advancing the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Chapters
[00:00:07] Introduction
[00:06:35] Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and a Focus on Missions
[00:08:35] Radius International and Church Planting among Unreached Groups
[00:12:43] Missionary Training and Biblical Foundations
[00:18:13] Historical and Theological Foundations of Missions
[00:23:22] A Personal Journey to Reformed Theology
[00:39:13] Development of Radius International
[00:48:24] Missionary Work and Cultural Engagement
[00:58:46] Evolving Role of Reformed Theology in Modern Missions
[01:10:09] Future Directions for Presbyterian Missions
Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Doctrine of the Church and the Means of Grace
Apr 09, 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 XXIII, “The Doctrine of the Church and the Means of Grace.” In this episode, we get into various aspects of the church: the visible and invisible distinction, church discipline, and others.
Vos Group #87 — Deuteronomy and the Temptation of Jesus
Apr 05, 2024
Show notes
In this installment of Vos Group, we turn to p. 336 of Vos’ book Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments, focusing on the temptations of Jesus Christ. This discussion ventures into the heart of Jesus’ wilderness temptations, offering a rich, theological analysis that challenges and enlightens. We consider the strategic use of Old Testament quotations by Jesus during his confrontation with Satan, underscoring the deep, theological significance of these moments.
This episode not only unpacks the unique messianic nature of Jesus’s temptations but also firmly opposes a moralizing interpretation, instead highlighting the redemptive work accomplished through Christ’s victory over sin. Through a careful examination of Jesus as the obedient Son and true Israel, this episode reveals the layers of meaning in these biblical narratives, connecting them to broader themes of redemption, covenant theology, and the Christian life. As we understand Jesus’ role as the mediator who binds and spoils the strong man, this episode encourages believers to find their identity in Christ, resting in his victorious work on our behalf.
Chapters
00:07 Introduction
04:44 Jesus’ Temptation as a Prime Example of His Earthly Ministry
The History of the PCA Standing Judicial Commission
Mar 29, 2024
Show notes
Reformed Forum exhibited at the Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary conference in Greer, SC. This episode offers a deep dive into the Confessional Presbyterian Journal’s latest issue, with a special focus on the 50th anniversary of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) and the historical development of the PCA’s Standing Judicial Commission (SJC). Camden Bucey brings together Rev. Zachary Groff, pastor of Antioch Presbyterian Church, and Dr. Scott Cook, visiting professor of apologetics at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, both of whom are deeply involved in the Confessional Presbyterian Journal.
The conversation starts with an exploration of the journal itself, highlighting its dedication to addressing pressing issues in the church through a blend of pastoral scholarship and rigorous theological analysis. The latest issue’s theme revolves around the PCA’s 50th anniversary, offering a collection of articles that reflect on the denomination’s history, mission, and theological commitments.
Zachary Groff provides an overview of the journal’s contents, emphasizing the significance of the PCA’s commitment to the Great Commission and its historical context. He mentions various contributions that examine the PCA’s foundation, its growth, and its ongoing theological debates, particularly those concerning the church’s mission and the inclusivity of nations in God’s plan through Christ.
Dr. Scott Cook focuses on the specific topic of the PCA’s Standing Judicial Commission, outlining its origin and evolution. He describes the initial challenges faced by the PCA in maintaining discipline and order within its rapidly growing community. Cook traces the SJC’s development back to the 1980s, a period marked by significant debate and eventual compromise within the denomination. He articulates the tension between the desire for a grassroots, decentralized approach to church governance and the practical need for an efficient, centralized judicial body to handle disciplinary cases. This part of the conversation sheds light on the broader issues of polity and ecclesiastical authority within the PCA and offers insights into how the denomination has navigated these challenges over the years.
Throughout the episode, the guests underscore the Confessional Presbyterian Journal’s role in fostering informed theological conversation and community engagement within the Reformed tradition. The discussion not only celebrates the PCA’s past achievements but also critically examines its struggles and future directions, particularly in the realms of theological fidelity, church discipline, and mission.
Chapters
00:00:07 – Introduction
00:03:38 – Guest Introductions: Rev. Zachary Groff and Dr. Scott Cook
00:07:35 – In-depth Look at the Confessional Presbyterian Journal
00:23:00 – The Formation and Significance of the PCA’s Standing Judicial Commission
00:27:06 – Challenges and Future Directions for the PCA
00:56:35 – The Development of the SJC: From Concept to Reality
01:00:20 – The Challenges and Controversies of Implementing the SJC
01:04:26 – Reflecting on Growth and the Future of the PCA
01:12:23 – Reflecting on PCA’s Place in the Reformed World
Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Doctrine of the Church and the Means of Grace
Mar 27, 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 XXIII, “The Doctrine of the Church and the Means of Grace.” We’ll spend a few episodes discussing this chapter to dig a little deeper into the nature of the church.
Consciences and the Reformation
Mar 22, 2024
Show notes
In this enlightening episode, we discuss the nuances of conscience and confessional identity during the Reformation. Joined by Dr. Timothy Scheuers, we turn our attention to the transformative period of the 16th century, exploring how conscience acted not only as a catalyst for reform but also as a complex element influencing church unity, confessional standards, and the intricate relationship between church and state.
The core of our discussion centers around Dr. Scheuer’s book, Consciences and the Reformation: Scruples over Oaths and Confessions in the Era of Calvin and His Contemporaries (Oxford University Press), providing a fresh perspective on the role of conscience in driving forward the Reformation’s agenda. We explore the pivotal moments and figures of this era, including Calvin’s return to Geneva and the establishment of the Geneva Academy, to understand how these historical milestones continue to influence contemporary Christian thought and practice.
Through a blend of historical examination and practical application, this episode not only sheds light on the foundational aspects of Reformed theology but also invites listeners to reflect on the relevance of these principles in today’s ecclesiastical landscape. Whether you’re a theologian, a pastor, or simply someone interested in Christian history and doctrine, this episode offers valuable insights into the enduring legacy of the Reformation and its significance for the contemporary church.
Rev. Scheuers is the Associate Pastor of First United Reformed Church of Chino, CA, and an Adjunct Assistant Professor of History at Providence Christian College (Pasadena, CA).
Chapters
00:00:07 Introduction
00:05:49 Discovering the Topic
00:12:57 Conscience and the Reformation
00:18:59 Church-State Relations
00:24:47 Dissimulation and Conscience in the Reformation
00:31:57 The Role of Conscience in Calvin’s Geneva
00:49:44 Calvin’s Return to Geneva and Changes in Approach
00:59:58 The Effect of Sin on the Conscience
01:15:27 The Geneva Academy and Confessional Subscription
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