In this rebroadcast of a Sunday catechism service, Aldo Leon delves into the biblical roles of godly magistrates as demonstrated by Josiah and Hezekiah. Drawing from the Westminster Confession of Faith, Aldo unpacks the duties of civil leaders to uphold God's law, oppose idolatry, and foster righteousness within their realms. This episode challenges modern secular views on governance and highlights the biblical precedent for civil rulers to act in obedience to God's commands, serving as protectors of true worship and societal order.

Key Discussion Points:

• Josiah and Hezekiah as Models: Aldo examines how these Old Testament kings actively removed idolatry and upheld God's law, setting a standard for godly magistrates.
• Civil Authority and God's Law: Using the Westminster Confession (Chapter 23), the discussion emphasizes the duty of magistrates to govern in alignment with God's Word, including calling out and removing false worship.
• Lessons from History: Examples are drawn from church history, such as the role of civil leaders in convening councils like Nicaea and Westminster, demonstrating the importance of cooperative leadership in spiritual and civil matters.
• Judgment and Consequences: Aldo discusses the connection between societal idolatry and divine judgment, urging Christians to recognize the call to reformation in all spheres of life—home, church, and government.
• Addressing Objections: The episode tackles common objections to applying Old Testament principles to modern governance, showing their relevance through a biblical and theological lens.

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In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, host Pastor Aldo Leon welcomes Pastor Matthew Everhard to delve into the transformative power of worship. Together, they explore the relationship between worship practices, church liturgy, and the spiritual formation of believers. Drawing from scripture, historical church practices, and their personal journeys, this discussion challenges the contemporary trend of "worshiptainment" and invites a return to God-centered worship rooted in the Psalms.

Guest: Matthew Everhard, Sr. Pastor, Gospel Fellowship Presbyterian Church, Valencia PA https://www.gospelfellowshippca.org/staff

Highlights:

• Understanding Worshiptainment: Pastor Everhard introduces his term "worshiptainment" to describe the blending of worship with entertainment, critiquing its impact on the church.
• The Journey to Psalm Singing: Both pastors share how they embraced singing the Psalms, discussing its theological depth and its ability to teach objective, God-glorifying worship.
• Liturgy's Role in Formation: The conversation highlights how worship practices shape belief and behavior, not only reflecting theology but actively forming it.
• The Regulative Principle of Worship: A discussion on aligning worship practices with God's commands, emphasizing scripture's central role in worship.
• Challenges of Contemporary Worship Styles: The dangers of prioritizing personal preferences or entertainment over biblical fidelity in worship.
• Encouraging Psalm Singing: Insights into how integrating Psalms into services enriches congregational life and spiritual growth.

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In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon is joined by Pastor Rom Prakashpalan to discuss the biblical and theological implications of extra-biblical holy days. The conversation challenges the widespread practice of adding man-made holy days like Christmas and Easter to the Christian calendar, examining how these traditions often undermine God's prescribed means of worship. Through a rich exploration of Scripture, Reformed confessions, and historical insights, this episode calls listeners back to a worship centered solely on God's Word and Christ's finished work.

Our guest: Reverend Rom Prakashpalan, Zion Presbyterian Church (FCC), Fredericksburg, VA (https://www.zion-presbyterian.com/)

Key Discussion Points:

• God's Exclusive Authority Over Holy Days: The episode begins by establishing that only God has the authority to ordain holy days, as demonstrated in Scripture from Genesis to the New Testament.
• Galatians and Colossians on Worship: Aldo and Rom explore how Paul's letters condemn both the observance of outdated ceremonial holy days and the creation of new ones.
• Distinction Between Holy Days and Worship Days: A clear differentiation is made between providential days of worship (e.g., Thanksgiving or fasting) and holy days instituted by God.
• The Nature of Church Power: The discussion highlights the ministerial and declarative role of the church, contrasting it with the legislative overreach seen in other traditions.
• The Decline of Reformed Adherence: A historical overview is provided, showing how American Presbyterians once rejected man-made holy days but gradually embraced them under cultural and external pressures.
• Lawlessness and Idolatry: The episode concludes by addressing the lawless and idolatrous outcomes of celebrating extra holy days, including their roots in Roman Catholic traditions like the mass.

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In this reflective episode, Aldo Leon discusses his recent experiences with the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) (FCC) alongside pastors Eduardo Martorano and Trace Turner. They discuss the unique distinctives of the FCC, including its commitment to confessional theology, reverent worship, and experiential preaching. The episode explores the spiritual depth, theological rigor, and pastoral warmth demonstrated by FCC leaders, offering a thoughtful critique and praise of their practices. Whether you're curious about the FCC or considering what it means to hold to Reformed convictions, this conversation provides a fascinating glimpse into this small but impactful denomination.

Guests:

• Pastor Eduardo Martorano, Iglesia La Vid, Loredo, TX (https://lavidlaredo.org/)
• Pastor Trace Turner, Houston Reformed Presbyterian Church (https://rphouston.org/)

Key Discussion Points:

• Gravitas and Levity in Worship: The FCC exemplifies a balance between deep reverence for God and a warm, approachable fellowship.
• Experiential Preaching: FCC places a unique emphasis on doctrinally rich, soul-stirring preaching as the centerpiece of worship.
• Uniformity and Accessibility: The FCC's consistent worship practices, such as exclusive psalmody and the use of the King James Bible, create a sense of unity and simplicity.
• Rigorous Ministerial Standards: Aldo and guests admire the FCC's thorough examinations and high expectations for ordination, highlighting their commitment to doctrinal integrity and pastoral care.
• Confessional Commitment: The FCC's steadfast adherence to historic Reformed theology and its cautious yet welcoming ecumenism stands as a model for modern churches navigating doctrinal faithfulness.

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In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon tackles the controversial topic of kinism, critically examining its incompatibility with biblical Christianity. Kinism, a movement that prioritizes ethnic and national ties over spiritual unity in Christ, is dissected and refuted using Scripture and Reformed theology. Aldo challenges the kinist ideology that subjugates supernatural grace to natural affinities, urging listeners to consider the supremacy of their identity in Christ over all natural ties.

Key Discussion Points:

• Biblical Refutation of Kinism: Aldo explains how kinism prioritizes natural affinities over spiritual unity, directly contradicting the Gospel's call to prioritize grace over nature.
• Christ's Lordship Over Natural Affinities: Using examples from Scripture, Aldo highlights how Christ demands allegiance above even the closest kinship ties, showing how grace redefines relationships.
• The Role of the Church and Nations: Aldo examines the biblical vision for nations and the church, arguing against ethnocentrism and for a Christ-centered worldview in cultural and societal engagement.
• Misuse of Christian Nationalism: The episode explores how kinists distort Christian nationalism, intertwining it with ethnocentrism, and contrasts this with a truly biblical and Reformed understanding.
• Historical Reformed Perspectives: Drawing on figures like John Calvin, Aldo demonstrates how the Reformed tradition has always prioritized godliness and covenantal faith over ethnic or national identity.

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This episode of Kingdom Polemics is a rebroadcast of a catechism service at Pinelands Presbyterian Church in Cutler Bay, Florida, Pastor Leon delves into the profound topic of Christ's kingship and its implications for both the church and civil government. Join us as we explore the theological and practical aspects of living under the rule of one King in two distinct realms.

Summary of Highlights/Discussion Points:

• Christ's Kingship: Pastor Leon explains how Christ's rule extends over both the church and the world, providing a vision for biblical governance in both realms.
• Westminster Standards: A discussion on the historical context and adaptation of the Westminster Standards by American Presbyterians in 1788, and the implications of these changes.
• Distinction Between Church and State: The episode highlights the differences in authority and governance between the church and civil government, emphasizing the direct headship of Christ over the church.
• Role of Civil Magistrates: An exploration of the civil magistrate's role in restraining and overcoming enemies, supporting the church, and maintaining order in society.
• Theological Points: Pastor Leon touches on various theological points, including the importance of maintaining the purity of the church's doctrine and worship, and the relationship between church and state.

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In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon shares a recording of a Catechism Service at Pinelands Presbyterian Church, in Cutler Bay, FL. Pastor Aldo delves into the biblical and Reformed understanding of the civil magistrate, exploring the magistrate's role as God's appointed servant responsible for promoting righteousness, justice, and true worship. Drawing from the Westminster Larger Catechism and other Reformed sources, Aldo discusses how government authority should be exercised according to God's law and addresses the responsibilities of a Christian magistrate in supporting the church, preserving societal morality, and executing justice. Aldo challenges modern ideas that seek to limit or exclude the influence of biblical principles from public life, arguing that a Christian magistrate is essential for a truly just and godly society.

Key Discussion Points:

• Biblical Basis for Civil Authority: Aldo opens with the Westminster Catechism's view on the civil magistrate, emphasizing that magistrates are accountable to God for upholding both societal order and spiritual welfare.
• Sabbath Observance and Civil Leadership: He explains the historical expectation that rulers would support Sabbath observance and why modern governments should similarly protect religious practices.
• The Christian's Role in Politics: Aldo addresses the argument that Christians should avoid political office due to the presence of sin in government, refuting this view by emphasizing that Christians are called to engage and reform civic institutions.
• Justice and Capital Punishment: The episode explores the biblical mandate for justice, including capital punishment, and the importance of impartiality in law enforcement and governance.
• Limits of Authority and Just Warfare: Aldo concludes with a discussion on just war theory, emphasizing that Christian-led governments should engage in war only under righteous causes, such as protecting the nation from genuine threats to religious or moral integrity.

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In this episode, Kingdom Polemics host Aldo Leon provides a critical analysis of a recent conversation on Abounding Grace between Chris Gordon and David VanDrunen, where they critique Christian nationalism and its relation to Reformed theology (https://youtu.be/uwJUB1CKOdM). Aldo examines their points about cultural engagement, the role of the civil magistrate, and what it means to apply biblical principles in the public square. Through this commentary, he clarifies misunderstandings about Christian nationalism, defends the historic Reformed perspective on law and government, and challenges the notion that Christians should avoid influencing societal structures with biblical principles.

Key Discussion Points:

• Misrepresentations of Christian Nationalism: Aldo addresses how Gordon and VanDrunen often misrepresent Christian nationalism, clarifying its roots in Reformed theology and its aim to honor Christ in all societal aspects.
• The Role of the Civil Magistrate: He critiques their view that government should not actively uphold the first table of the law, arguing instead for a historical, confessional perspective on the magistrate's role in supporting true religion.
• Christ's Lordship over Nations: Aldo challenges the idea that New Testament teachings negate the Old Testament's approach to national submission to God, arguing that Christ's lordship extends over all earthly authorities.
• Biblical and Natural Law: He contrasts VanDrunen's reliance on natural law with a Reformed view that acknowledges biblical law as essential for guiding all areas of life, including governance and society.
• Defending Covenant Theology in Public Life: Aldo highlights how Reformed covenantal thought supports Christian engagement in cultural and political spheres without compromising the distinct role of the church.

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In this insightful rebroadcast of City of God, Aldo Leon joins Pastor Rob Pacienza to clarify misconceptions about Christian nationalism and discuss what a biblically faithful, Reformed approach to Christian nationalism entails. They outline how the lordship of Christ should influence every aspect of life, including the public and political spheres. The episode aims to distinguish historical, confessional Christian nationalism from more extreme or distorted interpretations, providing clarity on what it means to engage in the public square as Christians committed to God's truth.

Key Discussion Points:

• Christ's Kingship Over Nations: The discussion emphasizes that Christ's reign is not confined to private devotion but extends to all spheres of life, including government.
• Clarifying Christian Nationalism: Aldo and Rob clarify that Reformed Christian nationalism is historically confessional, adhering to clear distinctions between church and state while affirming Christ's authority over both.
• Rejecting Misleading Labels: The episode challenges the use of "Christian nationalism" as a pejorative term to silence biblical political engagement.
• Addressing Public Issues Biblically: They discuss how the Reformed tradition equips Christians to address cultural and political issues faithfully without compromising the gospel.
• Reformed Confessions as Guides: Aldo and Rob advocate for grounding political engagement in the wisdom of the Reformed confessions, avoiding nationalistic distortions while upholding the church's role in societal transformation.

Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics to keep these meaningful discussions going. Be sure to leave your thoughts on our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can engage further on these vital topics. Thank you for helping us proclaim Christ's lordship across every realm!

In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Pastor Aldo Leon dives deep into a theological discussion addressing various views on Christian nationalism, common grace, and the role of civil government through a critical lens. Interacting with perspectives from David VanDrunen and Chris Gordon, Aldo engages with the pressing questions about how Christianity should influence culture, politics, and societal structures today. As always, Pastor Aldo brings his unique Reformed and polemical perspective, challenging listeners to think critically about modern evangelical responses to societal challenges.

Summary of Highlights/Discussion Points:

• Engagement with David VanDrunen's Theology: Pastor Aldo critiques VanDrunen's R2K (Two-Kingdom) theology, which emphasizes a separation between the sacred and secular realms, arguing that it over-corrects against Christian engagement in societal matters.
• Christian Nationalism Debate: The episode addresses the tension between Christian nationalism, particularly the views presented by Stephen Wolfe, and the R2K theology of minimizing Christian influence in public affairs.
• Common Grace vs. Saving Grace: Aldo explores how common grace functions in society and how it should not replace the necessity of Christian principles guiding nations and governance.
• Critique of Modern Evangelical Piety: Aldo challenges the notion that Christians should only focus on spiritual matters and personal piety, without engaging in societal reform or upholding Christian values in the public square.
• Christ's Lordship Over All Realms: Drawing from Scripture, Aldo emphasizes that Jesus Christ is Lord over all nations, not just the church, and that Christians should aspire to see Christ's rule acknowledged in every sphere of life, including government.

Reference Materials:

• Discussion with David VanDrunen on Christian Nationalism, Stephen Wolfe & Doug Wilson https://youtu.be/uwJUB1CKOdM
• The Noahic Covenant as a Religious Covenant of Grace Not a Common Covenant of Neutrality https://reformationmiami.org/images/docs/The-Noahic-Covenant-Article.pdf

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