Outlaw God

In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith continue discussing the story of Joseph and how it has been used to explain divine election, suffering, and the human will. They critique the common theological idea that God uses suffering to align human will with His will or to produce righteousness. Instead, they show how Luther's reading of the story points to God accomplishing election through preaching and absolution, not through suffering or human cooperation. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

In this episode of the Outlaw God podcast, Caleb Keith and Dr. Steven Paulson examine the story of Joseph in the pit and how it has been used in Christian theology to interpret divine election, sovereignty, and suffering. They trace how medieval mystics and nominalist theologians treated Joseph's suffering as God's chosen means of purifying and justifying the elect—effectively replacing preaching with suffering as the instrument of righteousness. The episode concludes by previewing Luther's break from this view, arguing that Joseph's story ultimately points not to redemptive suffering, but to the proclamation of the gospel. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of the Outlaw God podcast, Caleb Keith and Steven Paulson look into the themes of suffering and atonement as discussed in 1 Corinthians. They explore the historical context of suffering in early Christianity, the significance of the word of the cross, and the implications of mysticism and absorption theory. The conversation also touches on the influence of Martin Luther King Jr. and the impact of his theology on modern Christianity. The episode concludes with reflections on the role of preaching in understanding suffering for the Christian life.   Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of the Outlaw God, Caleb Keith and Dr. Steven Paulson continue their look into suffering, the theology of the cross, and the historical context of mysticism in relation to faith. They explore how suffering is perceived in Christian theology, particularly through the lens of Luther's insights, and discuss the implications of viewing God's suffering as redemptive. The conversation also touches on the challenges of cultural Christianity and the importance of external word in faith, culminating in a critique of Oseander's mystical interpretations. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: 1517 Youtube: How God Still Speaks Today Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith examine Christian views of suffering and critiques the common idea that God sends hardship to create or strengthen faith. Drawing on Luther's reading of the Psalms and 2 Corinthians 3, they argue that faith comes first and suffering follows because faith is attacked, not produced, by affliction. They trace how mystical and modern evangelical traditions interpret suffering as a path to humility, conversion, and even divine compassion, including the notion that God must suffer to understand humanity. The discussion concludes by previewing Luther's break from these ideas and a clearer theology of the cross to be explored next time. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

On this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith continue to look at 2 Corinthians 3, where Paul contrasts the ministries of Moses and the Holy Spirit as law and gospel. They explore how the "glory" associated with Moses belongs to the law that kills and comes to an end, while the Spirit's glory gives life through resurrection and endures forever. They discuss common theological confusions that treat law and gospel as cooperative or parallel paths to salvation and argue instead that the gospel alone creates righteousness by promise. The episode concludes by showing how this passage shaped Luther's theology and sets up a new way of reading Moses through the lens of Christ and the gospel. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith A Reasoned Defense of the Faith by Adam Francisco Stretched: A Study for Lent and the Entire Christian Life by Dr. Christopher Richmann The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes, Translated by Dr. Derek Cooper More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of the Outlaw God podcast, Caleb Keith and Steven Paulson finally arrive at 2 Corinthians Chapter 3, discussing the distinction between law and gospel, the authority of Paul, and the implications of Moses' ministry. They explore how the law, represented by Moses, is a ministry of death, while the gospel, delivered through Christ, offers life and assurance.   Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of the Outlaw God podcast, Caleb Keith and Dr. Steven Paulson continue to talk about the theological implications of Moses' encounter with God in the cleft of the rock. They discuss the nature of God's glory, the significance of worship, and the relationship between grace and the law. The conversation emphasizes that true worship is rooted in hearing God's word and receiving His promises. The episode concludes with a reflection on the importance of understanding the distinction between law and gospel in Christian worship. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

In this episode of the Outlaw God podcast, Caleb Keith and Dr. Steven Paulson continue their discussion on Moses and Mysticsm. They explore the significance of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments and the deeper implications of his encounter with God, especially the moment when Moses asks to see God's glory. The conversation transitions into how this narrative has influenced both Christian and philosophical thought, particularly in relation to the law and its interpretation. Paulson emphasizes the importance of understanding the distinction between the law and the gospel, suggesting that many interpretations mistakenly equate God's glory with the law itself, rather than recognizing it as a manifestation of grace and favor. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Being Family by Dr. Scott Keith The Essential Nestingen: Essays on Preaching, Catechism, and the Reformation Philip Melanchthon's Commentary on Ecclesiastes Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith discuss the theological implications of divine favor, exploring Martin Luther's perspectives on the law, the role of suffering, and the significance of the incarnation. They discuss the transition from ascendant mysticism to a more democratized understanding of spirituality, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God's downward movement towards humanity. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith look into the themes of mysticism, the nature of God's law, and the relationship between humanity and the divine. They explore the story of Moses in the cleft of the rock, discussing how this narrative illustrates the complexities of knowing God and the implications of the law. The conversation also touches on the teachings of Gregory of Nyssa and Pseudo-Dionysius, highlighting their differing views on the law's role in the believer's life. Ultimately, the episode examines how Luther critiques these perspectives and introduces the concept of 'subcontrario' as a means of understanding God's favor through the law. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of the Outlaw God podcast, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith continue their conversation on the relationship between mysticism and the law. They explore the significance of the Ten Commandments, the theological implications of Moses' encounter with God in the cleft of the rock, and the perspectives of early church fathers like Gregory of Nyssa, Pseudo-Dionysius, and Maximus the Confessor.   00:00   Introduction to Mysticism and the Law 01:45   The Story of Moses and the Ten Commandments 06:15   Moses in the Cleft of the Rock 08:34  Theological Perspectives on Moses' Experience 11:03    Gregory of Nyssa's Insights on the Law 14:03   The Relationship Between Free Will and the Law 18:20   The Trinity and Its Connection to the Law 22:03   God's Relationship to the Law 25:42   Understanding God's Favor and Glory 34:42   The Infinite Nature of the Law   Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Coming Home for Christmas: 1517 Advent Devotional Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

In this episode of the Outlaw God podcast, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith explore the complexities of the biblical narrative surrounding Moses, particularly through the lens of 2 Corinthians. They discuss the misinterpretations of Moses, the role of Pseudo-Dionysius and humanism in shaping Christian thought, and the critical distinction between law and gospel. Paulson emphasizes that Moses' ministry is one of death, contrasting it with the life-giving Spirit through the gospel. The discussion also touches on Nietzsche's critique of Christian humility and the implications of Moses' veil as a symbol of misunderstanding the law's purpose. 00:00  Introduction to the Outlaw God Podcast 01:00  Exploring 2 Corinthians and the Story of Moses 02:18  Luther's Revelation on Moses and the Law 03:59  Humanism and the Fraudulent Teachings 05:41  The Donation of Constantine and Its Impact 07:22  Pseudo-Dionysius and His Influence on Christian Thought 10:50  Paul's Perspective on Moses in 2 Corinthians 16:19  Distinguishing Law from Gospel 19:39  The Assurance of the Gospel vs. the Law 21:40  Nietzsche's Critique of Christian Morality 23:37  The Problem of False Humility in Society 25:22  Understanding the Law vs. the Gospel 27:03  Moses: The Ministry of Death 31:35  The Veil of Moses: Mysticism vs. Truth 36:30  The End of the Law and the Glory of the Spirit 40:38  Moses' Role and the Transformation through the Gospel Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Coming Home for Christmas: 1517 Advent Devotional Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steve Paulson and Caleb Keith discuss Moses and mysticism, exploring how the story of Moses has been interpreted through the lens of law and gospel. They discuss Luther's understanding of Moses, the theology of humility, and the implications of pietism. The conversation also touches on the role of the law, the concept of negative theology, and the significance of Moses as a mediator between God and the people. The episode concludes with a preview of Moses' second journey to Mount Sinai and its importance in understanding the gospel. 00:00 Introduction to Moses and Mysticism 02:41 Luther's Understanding of Moses 05:26 The Theology of Humility 07:53 Pietism and New Laws 10:26 The Story of Moses and Commandments 13:26 Moses as Mediator 15:53 Luther's Perspective on Moses 18:29 The Role of the Law and the Gospel 21:04 Negative Theology and Worship 23:39 The 613 Commandments and Their Implications 26:28 Conclusion and Next Steps   Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Coming Home for Christmas: 1517 Advent Devotional Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

As we close out 2025, 1517 and the Podcast Network are asking listeners to support our mission to declare and defend the good news that you are forgiven and free on account of Christ. This Advent, we're focusing on how Christ alone brings sinners home. That's the message we proclaim week after week through podcasts, sermon helps, videos, and articles and it's the message your financial support carries into 2026 and beyond. Help Us Reach Our Goal

In this episode of the Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith focus on Paul's interpretation of Moses in 2 Corinthians. They explore the differences between written and spoken word, the implications of mystical interpretations of scripture, and the significance of the New Covenant. The discussion emphasizes the ministry of death associated with the law and contrasts it with the life-giving nature of the Spirit. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

Summary In this episode of Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb Keith look into the complexities of the law as presented in Exodus 20, particularly through the lens of mysticism and the distinction between law and gospel. They explore the significance of the written law, the role of promises, and how mystics interpret the law in search of glory. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the Ten Commandments and the implications of God's promises, ultimately highlighting the challenges of reconciling the law with the gospel. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Coming Home for Christmas: 1517 Advent Devotional Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Scott Keith Daniel Emery Price  

In this episode of the Outlaw God, Dr. Steven Paulson and Caleb keith discuss the transition from the Garden of Eden to the teachings of Moses, focusing on the significance of the Ten Commandments and the role of the law in theology. They explore the distinction between doctrine and preaching, the difference between law and gospel, and the implications of having the law written down versus verbally proclaimed. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Coming Home for Christmas: 1517 Advent Devotional Face to Face: A Novel of the Reformation by Amy Mantravadi Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson  

In this episode of the Outlaw God, Caleb Keith and Dr. Steven Paulson dive into the theological debate between Martin Luther and Erasmus, focusing on the concepts of free will, the interpretation of scripture, and the significance of grammar in understanding faith. They explore Luther's critique of Erasmus's views on free will and the importance of distinguishing between indicatives and imperatives in scripture. The conversation emphasizes the certainty of faith and the promise of repentance as opposed to mere commands, ultimately highlighting the transformative power of God's word. This episode was recorded live from Here We Still Stand 2025 coference. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson

In this special episode of Outlaw God, Steven Paulson, Caleb Keith are joined by Scott Keith to look at the Bondage of the Will. This discussion serves as an introduction to the theme of the upcoming Here We Still Stand conference in San Diego, celebrating the 500th anniversary of the work's publication. If you can't attend, don't worry—talks, including Dr. Paulson's, will be available on YouTube. Stay tuned for next week's live-recorded podcast from the conference. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Steven Paulson Scott Keith