Kingdom Polemics

In this episode, Pastor Aldo Leon interviews Pastor Gavin Beers, a minister of the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) in Burlington, NC. They discuss the biblical doctrine of the establishment principle, which teaches that civil magistrates have a duty to promote and protect true religion according to God's law. Pastor Beers explains the historical and theological background of this doctrine, as well as its implications for church and state relations in the present day. He also responds to some common objections and challenges from different perspectives, such as Roman Catholicism, Erastianism, Voluntarism, and R2K. This episode is a follow-up to a four-part conference that Pastor Beers delivered and published online on this same topic, which can also be found in previous episodes of Kingdom Polemics.

Pastor Gavin Beers is a native of Northern Ireland and a graduate of the Free Church Seminary, Inverness, Scotland. He currently serves as the minister of the FCC's first North Carolina, USA, congregation, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church. More information can be obtained from the Church's website: https://cornerstone-presbyterian.com/.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Pastor Aldo Leon shares his journey from being almost convinced of exclusive psalmody to embracing psalms mostly as his position on singing in public worship. He explains why he thinks the reformed tradition has room for difference on this issue and why he believes that other elements of worship, such as prayer, preaching, and the Lord's Supper, allow for expounding the word of God in our own words. He also warns against being too narrow and divisive on matters that are not essential to the reformed faith and urges us to be more ecumenical and charitable with our brothers and sisters who may differ from us on secondary issues. He concludes by affirming his love for psalm singing and encouraging us to sing more psalms in our churches.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Pastor Aldo Leon responds to some of the tweets by Owen Strachan, a prominent evangelical leader and theologian. Pastor Leon challenges some of the common Christian cliches that Strachan promotes, such as:

• There is no Christian prince in Scripture
• There is no New Testament mandate to theonomize the nations
• There is no replacement of suffering Christianity with martial Christianity
• The nations will not become Christian in this age
• There is no call to Christians today to undo the curse

Pastor Leon provides biblical evidence and arguments to show that these cliches are not faithful to the whole counsel of God and the mission of the church. He also explains how the Great Commission, the covenant of grace, and the reign of Christ over the nations are relevant for Christians today. He calls for a biblical worldview that does not compromise with the secular culture or deny the lordship of Christ over all things.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode, Pastor Aldo Leon and Pastor Edwin Ramirez discuss the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas from a biblical and covenantal perspective. They explore the historical and theological roots of the tension, the role of God's judgment and mercy, and the implications for Christians today. They also challenge some common misconceptions and assumptions about Israel and the Middle East.

• The conflict between Israel and Hamas is not a recent phenomenon, but a result of God's prophecy and judgment on Abraham's descendants through Ishmael and Isaac (Genesis 16:11-12).
• Israel is still under covenant curses for rejecting their Messiah, Jesus Christ, and calling his blood upon themselves (Matthew 21:42-44, 27:24-25).
• God still has covenant purposes for Israel, but they will not be fulfilled until Israel embraces the new covenant in Christ and repents of their crucifixion of him (Romans 11:25-27, Matthew 23:37-39).
• Christians should not have a simplistic or sentimental view of Israel, but a biblical and covenantal one that recognizes God's sovereignty, justice, and grace in history.

Listen to this episode to reframe your view of what really is transpiring in the middle east.

Also, tune into Pastor Edwin Ramirez's Podcast, "The Proverbial Life" found on Apple, Spotify and major outlets. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-proverbial-life/id1474021310

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode, Aldo Leon exposes the misuse and abuse of the term gospel-centered in the evangelical world. He argues that many people claim to be gospel-centered, but in reality they are not. He shows how the gospel is often reduced to a slogan, a formula, or a technique, rather than a comprehensive and glorious truth that shapes our whole lives.

He then clarifies what gospel-centered means and why it matters. He says that being gospel-centered means living in light of the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the center of God's redemptive plan and history. Some of the points he makes are:

• The term gospel-centered is often used as a "buzzword" or a "badge" without understanding its meaning and implications.
• Being gospel-centered means living in light of the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the fulfillment of all God's promises and purposes.
• Being gospel-centered means applying the gospel to every aspect of our lives, such as our identity, worship, mission, relationships, and ethics.
• Being gospel-centered means avoiding the pitfalls of legalism, moralism, and pragmatism that can distort the gospel and rob us of its power and joy.

Listen to this episode to discover the beauty and power of the gospel and how it can transform you and your ministry.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon continues his critique of Owen Strachan's views on Christianity and politics. He challenges some of the arguments that Strachan makes at the G3 about Christian Nationalism, such as:

• The idea that Christianization is only a future reality, not a present one.
• The idea that suffering for Christ is incompatible with seeking Christian influence in society.
• The idea that faith in the gospel is opposed to faith in God's covenantal promises for the nations.

Leon also appeals to the examples of biblical prophets, historical figures, and Jonathan Edwards as models of how Christians should engage with civil authorities and promote true religion. He argues that the reformed tradition has a broader and more comprehensive vision of Christ and his kingdom than what Strachan and others represent. He calls for a more optimistic and expansive view of God's grace and power in history.

If you missed the preceding episode on this topic, you can watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TjXLs_wnDU8.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode, Aldo Leon responds to some of the comments made by Owen Strachan, a prominent evangelical theologian and professor, at the G3 conference on the topic of Christian nationalism. Leon challenges Strachan's views on free speech, blasphemy laws, and the role of the church and the state in society. He argues that Strachan is not consistent with the biblical, reformed, and historical perspective on these issues, and that he is influenced by secular and Baptist assumptions. Leon also interacts with various passages from the Old and New Testament, as well as from the reformed confessions and Calvin's Institutes, to support his position. He calls for a more holistic and comprehensive understanding of the Great Commission and the kingship of Christ over all nations.

Some of the points that Leon makes in this episode are:

• Free speech is not a biblical concept, but a classical liberal and secular one. The third commandment prohibits taking God's name in vain, and God judges both individuals and nations for their blasphemy (e.g., Nebuchadnezzar, Herod, etc.).
• The 10 commandments are not exclusive to Israel, but are given in creation, before Sinai, and after Sinai. They are also applicable to all nations in the new covenant era, as prophesied by Isaiah and other prophets.
• The Great Commission does not exclude or contradict the biblical teaching on the kingship of Christ over all nations. Psalms 2, Isaiah 49, Romans 13, Revelation 1, and other passages show that God expects kings and magistrates to submit to Christ and serve his church.
• The Old Testament examples of godly rulers who reformed religion and society (e.g., Hezekiah, Josiah, etc.) are not irrelevant or obsolete for Christians today. They are models of how civil authorities should use their power for God's glory and the good of his people.
• The reformed tradition has always affirmed the cooperation between church and state in promoting a Christian society. The reformed confessions, Calvin's Institutes, and the Westminster Assembly are examples of how this was done in history.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this riveting episode of Kingdom Polemics, Pastor Aldo Leon takes us on a deep dive into Acts 27, revealing the true essence of masculinity through the lens of Paul's life.

Discover how Paul's courage and leadership extended beyond theology and doctrine, making him a beacon of strength in real-life situations. This episode challenges men in the church to embody these qualities, facing life's trials with faith and vulnerability.

But it doesn't stop there! Pastor Leon illuminates how Christ, as the wisdom of God, empowers us to be effective not just in concepts but in real life.

So, are you ready to strive for the glory of God's Kingdom? Are you prepared to be a help rather than a hindrance? Listen carefully to this episode and embark on your journey towards true masculinity.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, host Aldo Leon talks with Robbie Crouse, a professor of systematic theology at Knox Theological Seminary, about the case for weekly communion. They discuss the historical views and practices of the church regarding the frequency and significance of the Lord's Supper, as well as the biblical and confessional basis for celebrating it every Lord's Day. They also address some common objections and challenges to weekly communion, such as the fear of being too Roman Catholic, the need for preparation and discipline, and the logistics of administration. They conclude by highlighting the benefits and blessings of weekly communion for the spiritual nourishment, growth, and communion of God's people.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us improve our podcast by supporting each episode. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Please support us, leave us a comment or suggestion, a word of encouragement, we appreciate your support!

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.

In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon provides a rebroadcast of Pinelands Presbyterian's Catechism (6-Aug-23) of the Westminster Confession of Faith VII.5 and VII.6, where he teaches on the covenant of grace and how it is the only way that God relates to sinners after the fall. He explains how the covenant of grace was differently administered in the Old and New Testaments, and how the New Testament saints have a greater fullness and spiritual efficacy of the same grace. He also addresses some of the common objections and arguments from dispensationalists and reformed Baptists who deny or distort the unity and continuity of the covenant of grace. This is a rich and insightful teaching that will help you understand and appreciate the beauty and glory of God's gracious covenant in Christ.

You can find the Westminster Confession of Faith on our website: https://reformationmiami.org/what-we-believe and you can find Pinelands Presbyterian Church's Catechisms and Services at: https://www.youtube.com/@PinelandsPCA/about.

Are you enjoying Kingdom Polemics? Please help us out by supporting each episode with the purchase of a cup of coffee. Follow this link: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics, please leave us a comment or suggestion, we appreciate your support.

Join the Kingdom Polemics community on our YouTube page at https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can subscribe, leave comments, and access more thought-provoking content. Additionally, find past episodes of Kingdom Polemics at https://reformationmiami.org/kp for a comprehensive exploration of these crucial theological discussions.