Reformed Forum hosted an online symposium on February 29, 2024, featuring a series of thought-provoking sessions designed to explore the intersections of theology, history, and the contemporary challenges facing the church. In this session Owen Anderson explored the phenomenon of secularization, particularly focusing on the transformative changes that took place at Princeton Seminary and within Presbyterian education. Following Dr. Anderson's presentation, we entertained questions from viewers who submitted questions in our online chat. This discussion was especially timely in light of a growing educational renaissance, driven by parents increasingly concerned about the radical-leftist tendencies in modern education. There is a compelling opportunity to consider the rich Presbyterian history, which could provide valuable alternatives and insights. This topic is not only relevant to our current cultural context but also deeply rooted in our denominational heritage, offering a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of education. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KIK5SNau5Q

Owen Anderson — Old Princeton and Secularism

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In chapter five of Geerhardus Vos’ Biblical Theology (p. 343ff), the focus is on the various aspects of Jesus’ revelation during His public ministry. Vos argues that the revelation mediated by Jesus is often mistakenly confined to his earthly life, ignoring his pre-existence and post-existence, both of which are integral to the comprehensive scheme of divine revelation.  Vos outlines that Jesus’ earthly revelation functioned within a specific framework, implying limitations that did not exist in his pre-existent and post-existent states. These limitations were not due to any inadequacy in Jesus’ knowledge or power but were part of a divine scheme that required a progressive unfolding of revelation. Vos emphasizes that Jesus did not intend to reveal the entire volume of divine truth during his earthly ministry but functioned as a pivotal link within the continuum of revelation that includes both the Old and New Testaments.

Vos Group #89 — The Revelation of Jesus' Public Ministry

Ephesians 2:4-10 – The Good News

Join us for a special edition of Reformed Forum as Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss a recommendation coming before the upcoming 2024 General Assembly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC). They focus particularly on the proposed changes to the recommended curriculum for ministerial preparation which have been recommended by the Committee on Christian Education. Camden and Lane explore the historical context and potential impacts of these changes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust theological education in the OPC. They discuss the distinctive elements of the current suggested curriculum, particularly its strong emphasis on biblical theology and presuppositional apologetics, and analyze the proposed revisions, raising critical questions about their implications for the future of ministerial training in the denomination. Tune in to gain insights into the procedural aspects of the General Assembly, the role of advisory committees, and the importance of preserving the OPC's theological heritage. Whether you are an OPC member, a commissioner to General Assembly, or simply interested in Reformed theology, this episode will prompt you to consider what it means to equip men properly for gospel ministry.

2024 OPC General Assembly Preview

In this episode, we commemorate the centennial of the Auburn Affirmation, exploring its profound impact on the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the broader Christian community. We explore the theological crossroads of the early twentieth century, marked by the rise of modernism and the publication of The Fundamentals. We discuss the significant events that led to the Auburn Affirmation, including Harry Emerson Fosdick’s influential sermon and the subsequent controversies that reshaped American Protestantism. Reflecting on these historical developments, we consider the ongoing relevance of confessional fidelity and integrity in today’s church. Join us as we examine how the Auburn Affirmation’s call for theological tolerance challenges our understanding of doctrinal adherence, and how we can navigate these waters with a commitment to both truth and unity. This episode offers valuable insights into maintaining the church’s distinct witness and enduring relevance in a pluralistic society.

Danny Olinger | The Auburn Affirmation at 100

In this installment of Van Til Group, we turn to pp. 73–77 of Cornelius Van Til's classic book, The Defense of the Faith. In this section, Van Til critiques both Roman Catholicism and certain strands of Evangelicalism for their approach to human autonomy and the nature of sin. Van Til argues that Roman Catholicism, as represented by Thomas Aquinas, assigns too much autonomy to human consciousness, even before the Fall, which undermines the Scriptural notion of authority and total depravity. He contends that Aquinas views fallen man as not entirely different from Adam in paradise, thus diminishing the need for grace. Similarly, Van Til criticizes C.S. Lewis, representing a segment of Evangelical thought, for conflating metaphysical and ethical issues and for not adequately emphasizing human disobedience to God as the root of ethical problems. Both perspectives, according to Van Til, fail to uphold the biblical doctrine that only through faith and complete reliance on the triune God of Scripture can true ethical behavior be achieved.

Owen Anderson — Old Princeton and Secularism

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