Theology for the Church

In this conversation, Caleb Lenard (DEdMin, Southern Seminary) talks with Andrew Malone (ThD, Ridley College) Lecturer in Biblicl Studies at Ridley College, about his book on Christophanies, exploring the significance of Old Testament appearances of Christ. He explains the terms theophany and Christophany, their relevance in evangelism, and the interpretive challenges they present. The discussion also delves into the nature of God's visibility, the identity of the Angel of the Lord, and the implications for understanding the Trinity. Malone emphasizes the importance of careful biblical interpretation and the need for pastors and teachers to responsibly guide their congregations in reading the Old Testament in light of Christ.Resource: Knowing Jesus in the Old Testament?: A Fresh Look At Christophanies by Andrew Malone

In this episode , Caleb Lenard engages with Kelly Kapic (PhD, King’s College) Professor of Theological Studies at Covenant College to discuss his book on the theology of Christian life. They explore the essence of Christian life as a response to God's love, the importance of understanding the Trinity, and the role of the church in nurturing faith. Dr. Kapic emphasizes the need to avoid false dichotomies in theology, the relationship between law and gospel, and the significance of communal worship in experiencing God's presence.Resources: Christian Life by Kelly KapicCommunion with the Triune God by John OwenFriendship with God: A Path to Deeper Fellowship with the Father, Son, and Spirit by Mike Mckinley

In this conversation, Caleb and Stephen Wellum (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) Professor of Theology at Southern Seminary discuss the significance of baptism in relation to the biblical covenants. They explores the distinctions between the old and new covenants, the nature of the new covenant community, and the implications for church practices, particularly regarding baptism and church membership. The discussion highlights the necessity of conversion and faith for true church membership and the role of baptism as a sign of the new covenant.Resources: Believer's Baptism: Sign of the New Covenant in Christ edited by Tom Schreiner and Shawn WrightBaptism and the Relationship Between the Covenants by Steve WellumBaptism: Three Views edited by David WrightUnderstanding Four Views on Baptism edited by John Armstrong  and Paul EngleThe Baptism of Disciples Alone: A Covenantal Argument for Credobaptism Versus Paedobaptism by Fred MaloneBaptism in the Early Church: History, Theology, and Liturgy in the First Five Centuries Everett Ferguson

In this conversation, Caleb is joined by Michael Carlino (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) to discuss the relationship between revelational epistemology and Christian Platonism, emphasizing the importance of philosophy serving theology rather than the reverse. Carlino critiques the use of pagan metaphysics in Christian thought, particularly the risks associated with blurring the creator-creature distinction and the implications for understanding sin and salvation. The discussion highlights the necessity of keeping the gospel central in theological discourse and offers practical insights for integrating philosophy within a biblical framework.Resources: Know Scripture, No Need for Platonism: Revelational Epistemology Has Priority Over Remnantal Sophistry by Michael CarlinoHere's a link to a series of helpful essays at Christ Over All on various topics concerning Christian Platonism: Beware of Greeks Bearing Gifts: Plundering Plato without Becoming a Platonist

In this episode, Caleb Lenard (DEdMin) and Brian Rosner (PhD, Cambridge) discuss his new book, 'A Theology of Romans,' exploring the depth and richness of the Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans. Rosner emphasizes the importance of understanding the purpose and structure of Romans, the significance of the Gospel, and the connections to the Old Testament. He also provides practical tips for teaching Romans and recommends resources for further study, making this conversation a valuable resource for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of this foundational text.Resources​Strengthened by the Gospel: A Theology of Romans by Brian Rosner​ Paul and the Law: Keeping the Commandments of God by Brian Rosner​Romans by Tom Schreiner​The Letter to the Romans by Doug Moo​Romans: A Theological and Pastoral Commentary by Michael Gorman

In this conversation, Caleb is joined by Joshua Greever (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) associate dean of seminary programs and associate professor of New Testament at Bethlehem College and Seminary to discuss the concept of biblical justice as outlined in his edited volume, Let Justice Flow Like Water. The discussion explores the definition of justice from a biblical perspective, the role of God's holiness, the storyline of Scripture, and the implications for the church and individual Christians. Greever emphasizes the importance of understanding justice in light of the gospel and how Jesus fulfills the hope for justice. The conversation also addresses the expectations of justice in a fallen world and the church's mission in embodying justice.Resources:Let Justice Flow Like Water: Toward a Theology of Biblical Justice by edited by Joshua Greever When you use the code JUSTICE40 on Lifeway.com, you can get 40% off this title." And again, this discount code is good through the end of March 2026.Critical Dilemma: The Rise of Critical Theories and Social Justice Ideology―Implications for the Church and Society by Neil Shenvi and Pat SawyerWhat Is the Mission of the Church?: Making Sense of Social Justice, Shalom, and the Great Commission by Greg Gilbert and Kevin DeYoungConfronting Injustice without Compromising Truth: 12 Questions Christians Should Ask About Social Justice by Thaddeus Williams

In this episode, Caleb interviews Donnie Berry (PhD, Amridge University) instructor of New Testament and biblical theology with Training Leaders International about his new book on a biblical theology of the glory of God. They explore the concept of glory, its significance in relation to God and humanity, and how it connects to joy, creation, and redemption. Dr. Berry discusses the creation mandate, the impact of sin on humanity's ability to reflect God's glory, and the ultimate restoration of glory through Christ. The conversation culminates in a discussion of the new creation as described in Revelation, where God's glory fills all of creation.Resources:The Earth Will Be Filled: A Biblical Theology of the Glory of God by Donnie BerryDelighting in the Trinity: An Introduction to the Christian Faith by Michael ReevesGod's Glory in Salvation through Judgment: A Biblical Theology by Jim Hamilton

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Samuel Parkison (PhD, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary) Associate Professor of Theological Studies at Gulf Theological Seminary in the United Arab Emirates to discuss his new book The Fountain of Life: Contemplating the Aseity of God.Resources:The Fountain of Life: Contemplating the Aseity of God by Sam ParkisonThe Existence and Attributes of God by Stephen CharnockReformed Dogmatics, Vol. 2: God and Creation by Herman Bavinck

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Michael Seufert (PhD, The Catholic University of America) Pastor of Mission Orthodox Presbeterian Church to disucss the theology of the book of Judges. Together they cover the structure, purpose, main idea, and key themes of the book.ResourcesThe Book of Judges by Barry WebbJudges, Ruth: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Holy Scripture by Daniel BlockJudges: Such a Great Salvation by Dale Ralph DavisRight in Their Own Eyes: The Gospel According to Judges by George Schwab

In this week’s episode, Caleb is joined by David Mathis senior teacher and executive editor of desiringGod.org, pastor at Cities Church (Saint Paul), and adjunct professor for Bethlehem College & Seminary (Minneapolis) to discuss his new book, A Little Theology of Exercise. ResourcesA Little Theology of Exercise by David Mathis​ Embodied Holiness: The Biblical Call to Bodily Care by Lainey Greer​ Be Well: Learning to Steward Your Health by Lainey Greer

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Ian Vaillancourt (PhD, University of St. Michael’s College) professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Heritage Theological Seminary to discuss is book The Dawning of Redemption: The Story of the Pentateuch and the Hope of the Gospel. ResourcesThe Dawning of Redemption: The Story of the Pentateuch and the Hope of the Gospel by Ian VaillancourtKingdom through Covenant: A Biblical-Theological Understanding of the Covenants by Peter Gentry and Stephen WellumDominion and Dynasty: A Theology of the Hebrew Bible by Stephen DempsterOld Testament Theology by Paul HouseThe Pentateuch as Narrative: A Biblical-Theological Commentary by John SailhamerFrom Paradise to the Promised Land by T.D. Alexander

In this episode, Caleb is jonied by Kyle Claunch (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) Professor of Christian Theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and Michael Carlino (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) Operations Director for CBMW to discuss the topic of gender essetialism from a biblical and theological perspective. ResourcesGender Essentialism in Anthropological, Covenantal, and Christological Perspective by Claunch and CarlinoThe Necessity of a Male Savior: A Dogmatic Account of Gender Essentialism by Claunch and CarlinoSaving Masculinity and Femininity from the Morgue: A Defense of Gender Essentialism by Jordan SteffaniakThe Christian Family by Herman Bavinck

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by John Wilsey (PhD, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) Professor of Church History and Philosophy at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary to discuss his new book Religious Freedom: A Conservative Primer.ResourcesReligious Freedom: A Conservative Primer by John Wilsey

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Alan Thompson (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) head of the New Testament department and senior lecturer in New Testament at Sydney Missionary and Bible College to discuss his new book A Basic Guide to Biblical Theology: Nine Themes That Unite the Old and New Testaments. ResourcesA Basic Guide to Biblical Theology: Nine Themes That Unite the Old and New Testaments by Alan Thompson40 Questions About Biblical Theology Andy Naselli, Oren Martin, and Jason DeRouchieDictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament edited by D.A. Carson, Andy Naselli, Ben Gladd, and Greg BealeNew Dictionary of Biblical Theology: Exploring the Unity Diversity of Scripture edited by D.A. Carson, T.D. Alexander, Brian Rosner, and Graeme GoldsworthyCovenantal and Dispensational Theologies: Four Views on the Continuity of Scripture edited by Richard Lucas and Brent Parker

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Coleman Ford (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) assistant professor of humanities at Texas Baptist College to discuss his new book (coauthored with Shawn Wilhite) Nicaea for Today: Why an Ancient Creed (Still) Matters.ResourcesNicaea for Today: Why an Ancient Creed (Still) Matters by Coleman Ford and Shawn WilhiteThe Nicene Creed: What You Need to Know about the Most Important Creed Ever Written by Kevin DeYoungThe Story of the Trinity: Controversy, Crisis, and the Creation of the Nicene Creed by Bryan Litfin The Nicene Creed: An Introduction by Phillip CaryNicaea and Its Legacy: An Approach to Fourth-Century Trinitarian Theology by Lewis Ayres

In this week's episode, Caleb is joined by Matt Smethurst (MDiv, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) lead pastor of River City Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, to discuss his new book Tim Keller on the Christian Life: The Transforming Power of the Gospel. Together they discuss the most prominent works and themes from Keller's teaching and ministry. Resources: Tim Keller on the Christian Life: The Transforming Power of the Gospel by Matt SmethurstThe Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Tim KellerCounterfeit Gods: The Empty Promises of Money, Sex, and Power, and the Only Hope that Matters by Tim KellerPrayer: Experiencing Awe and Intimacy with God by Tim KellerEncounters with Jesus: Unexpected Answers to Life's Biggest Questions by Tim Keller Making Sense of God: Finding God in the Modern World  by Tim KellerWhat Is Wrong with the World?: The Surprising, Hopeful Answer to the Question We Cannot Avoid by Tim KellerWalking with God through Pain and Suffering by Tim Keller

In part four of a series on the four major views of Romans 9-11, Caleb is joined by Cory Marsh (PhD, Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary ) Professor of New Testament and Director of ThM program at Southern California Seminary in El Cajon, CA to answer this question: How will "All Israel" be saved in Romans 11:26? Resources:Dispensationalism by Cory MarshDiscovering Dispensationalism: Tracing the Development of Dispensational Thought From the First to the Twenty-First Century by Cory MarshRomans: A Shorter Commentary by C.E.B. CranfieldRomans The Gospel of God's Grace by Alva McClainRomans by Daniel DaveyThe Future Restoration of Israel: A Response to Supersessionism by Stanley Porter and Alan KurschnerUnderstanding the Jewish Roots of Christianity: Biblical, Theological, and Historical Essays on the Relationship between Christianity and Judaism by Gerald McDermott The New Christian Zionism: Fresh Perspectives on Israel and the Land by Gerald McDermottIsrael, the Church, and the Middle East: A biblical response to the current conflict edited by Darrell Bock and Mitch GlaserThree Views on Israel and the Church: Perspectives on Romans 9–11 edited by Jared Compton and Andy NaselliPastor Scholar Podcast with Cory Marsh

In part three of a series on the four major views of Romans 9-11, Caleb is joined by Richard Lucas (PhD, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary) Pastor of Teaching and Reaching at First Baptist Church Jacksonville, Florida to answer this question: How will "All Israel" be saved in Romans 11:26? ResourcesHow Will “All Israel” Be Saved in Romans 11:26? (Part 1 and 2) by Richard LucasRichard Lucas' Chapter on Romans 11 in Progressive Covenantalism: Charting a Course between Dispensational and Covenantal Theologies Was Paul Prooftexting? Paul's Use of the Old Testament as Illustrated through Three Debated Texts by Richard LucasRomans by Tom SchreinerFred Zaspel and Jim Hamilton's Chapter in: ⁠Three Views on Israel and the Church: Perspectives on Romans 9–11The Letter to the Romans by Doug Moo

In part two of a series on the four major views of Romans 9-11, Caleb is joined by Sam Storms (PhD, University of Texas) President of Enjoying God Ministries and President and Executive Director of Convergence Church Network as well as former Lead Pastor for Preaching and Vision, Bridgeway Church, Oklahoma City, OK. Together they seek to answer this question: How will "All Israel" be saved in Romans 11:26? Resources:Romans by Sam StormsKingdom Come: The Amillennial Alternative by Sam StormsThe Israel of God: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow ⁠O. Palmer RobertsonBen Merkle's Chapter in: Paul's Letter to the Romans: Theological EssaysBen Merkle's Chapter in: Three Views on Israel and the Church: Perspectives on Romans 9–11Ben Merkle Summary VideoThe Bible and the Future by Anthony HoekemaThe Deliver from Zion by Chris Bruno

In part one of a series on the four major views of Romans 9-11, Caleb is joined by Lee Irons (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) church planting pastor at of Santa Clarita United Reformed Church in Santa Clarita, California to answer this question: How will "All Israel" be saved in Romans 11:26? This is part one in a series of four on the major views of Romans 9-11.RecoursesPaul’s Theology of Israel’s Future: A Non-Millennial Interpretation of Romans 11 by Lee IronsPaul and the Resurrection of Israel: Jews, Former Gentiles, Israelites by Jason StaplesPaul and the Faithfulness of God by N.T. WrightThe Letter to the Romans: A Linguistic and Literary Commentary Stanley Porter