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Pierre Viret (1509-1571) Ask anyone who has even the scantiest knowledge of the sixteenth century Reformation, "Who was the most significant figure in Geneva's magisterial Reformation?" and they would of course reply, "John Calvin." But Calvin himself would undoubtedly reply, "Oh, no, no, no. To be sure, it was Pierre Viret." It was Viret, along with his mentor and friend William Farel, who brought the Reformation to the city of Geneva beginning in 1534. Viret pastored a thriving church. He helped to evangelize the neighboring districts. He engaged in several public disputations with Catholic hierarchs. He wrote voluminously. He survived two brutal assassination attempts. And, he established the first academy for Reformed theological training. Viret set about his work tirelessly, discipling some of the brightest minds in the fledgling Reformation movement. Viret would train a whole new generation of pastors, evangelists, apologists, educators, and missionaries. Whenever there was an intractable conflict in any of the churches, it was Viret who was called in to restore their purity and peace. He would write more than 50 books that would shape the Reformation throughout Europe. Carrying on a voluminous correspondence with frequent visits back to Geneva, he was Calvin's best friend and most trusted advisor. No wonder Viret was deeply beloved. To some he was known as the "Smile of the Reformation." To others, he was the "Angel of the Reformation."

In this episode of Contending for the Word Q&A, Dave Jenkins explains how Christians can have peace in uncertain times. Drawing from Isaiah 26:3 and Philippians 4:6–7, this episode considers the difference between worldly peace and the peace of God. Worldly peace depends on favorable circumstances, but biblical peace is rooted in the unchanging character and faithfulness of God. Christians are called to fix their minds on the Lord, bring their concerns to Him in prayer, and rest in His promises. Though uncertainty is real, God remains faithful, and His peace guards the hearts and minds of His people in Christ Jesus. For more from Contending for the Word Q&A, please visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-qa/

Song of Solomon 4 celebrates the beauty, security, and exclusivity of covenant love within marriage. In this episode of Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, Dave Jenkins explains how this chapter calls husbands and wives to honor one another, protect purity, delight in faithful commitment, and reflect the steadfast love of God. Covenant love is not casual, degrading, or self-centered. It is marked by dignity, encouragement, faithfulness, and joyful commitment. Ultimately, the chapter points us beyond human marriage to Christ, the faithful Bridegroom who loves and keeps His church forever. For more from Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, visit https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

Song of Solomon 3 teaches that covenant love involves longing, faithful pursuit, commitment, purity, and joyful security. Dave Jenkins explains how this chapter honors God's design for marriage and ultimately points to Christ, the perfectly faithful Bridegroom of His people. For more from Reading the Bible Daily with Dave, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/reading-the-bible-daily-with-dave/

In this August series wrap-up, Dave Jenkins examines the common thread behind counterfeit spirituality, prophetic culture, prosperity theology, emotionalism, and other deceptive movements: a shift away from the authority and sufficiency of God's Word. Christians do not need new revelations, spiritual trends, or captivating personalities. In Christ, believers have everything necessary for life and godliness. This episode calls listeners to test every teaching by Scripture, grow in biblical literacy, and stand firm in the truth as the church ministers in a post-truth culture. For more from Contending for the Word, visit: https://servantsofgrace.org/contending-for-the-word-podcast/

Some homes raise kids under a list of man-made rules — others let anything go. Both are a form of rebellion against God. The dads discuss how fathers can set biblical standards for movies, music, and modesty in the home without sliding into either ditch, and why the motive behind a standard matters as much as the standard itself.

On today's episode, Dr. Jim Townsley continues his mini series of "Making Church Healthy Again" by discussing some helpful details about preaching, teaching, and discipleship in your church that can be a great help to your ministry.