Summary

In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery hosts Dr. Ronni Kurtz, Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology at Midwestern Seminary, for a conversation on the question: Is everyone a theologian? Together, they explore why theological reflection matters for every Christian, the relationship between intellect and affections, and the importance of cultivating a theological imagination in a world full of distortions. Dr. Kurtz shares his personal journey from conversion to vocational theology, offers practical wisdom for local disciple-makers, and recommends resources for beginners and advanced students alike. The discussion emphasizes that theology is not just for the academy—it’s for the church, for everyday life, and for administering reality to those nearest to us.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

systematic theology, theological reflection, local theologians, Christian life, intellectual formation, affections, theological imagination, discipleship, Trinity, beatific vision, resources for theology, MBTS, Midwestern Seminary

Takeaways

• Everyone is a theologian in some sense—the question is whether you will be a faithful one.

• Theology is the study of God and all things in relation to God.

• Intellectual growth and spiritual affections should fuel one another.

• Theological reflection helps Christians administer reality in a world of lies.

• Local theology matters—real ministry happens with real neighbors.

• The Trinity is the blueprint of the cosmos and deeply practical for Christian life.

• The beatific vision is the ultimate hope of heaven: seeing God himself.

• Resources and mentors—both living and dead—shape theological maturity.

Sound Bites

• You cannot not practice theology—the question is, will you be a faithful theologian?

• The world needs people who behold the glory of the Lord and administer what is real.

• Local theology is loving your actual neighbor, not just the idea of mankind.

• The Trinity is the map of the cosmos—everything is from Him, through Him, and to Him.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Why This Conversation Matters

2. 01:30 Is Everyone a Theologian?

3. 03:03 Defining Theology: Thoughts About God and All Things in Relation to God

4. 06:03 Intellect and Affections: Loving God Through Learning

5. 08:02 Ronni Kurtz’s Journey into Theology

6. 14:54 The Role of Theological Reflection in Christian Life

7. 16:40 Administering Reality and Developing Theological Imagination

8. 21:40 What Is a Local Theologian? Why Local Theology Matters

9. 28:21 The Dislocation of Theology from Local Context

10. 32:32 Recommended Resources for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced

11. 38:41 Upcoming Book: Theology for Life and Other Recommendations

12. 41:12 Handling Disagreement and Cultivating Humility

13. 46:20 Why Trinitarian Theology Is Practical

14. 50:19 What Is the Beatific Vision?

15. 52:15 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

Summary

In this episode, Travis Montgomery sits down with Dr. Todd Chipman, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies and Dean of Graduate Studies at Midwestern Seminary, as well as pastor of The Master’s Community Church. Together, they explore the surprising benefits of historical study for life and ministry. Dr. Chipman shares how his deep engagement with biblical backgrounds and historical context—especially during his PhD studies—has profoundly shaped his preaching, teaching, and personal faith. From understanding figures like Herod and Pontius Pilate to appreciating Second Temple Judaism and intertestamental literature, this conversation highlights how history enriches theological interpretation and pastoral ministry.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

biblical theology, historical context, pastoral ministry, Second Temple Judaism, intertestamental period, preaching, hermeneutics, theological education, biblical backgrounds, Christian formation

Takeaways

• Historical study strengthens conviction and confidence in Scripture.

• Understanding the cultural and political context of the New Testament brings depth to preaching.

• Biblical theology is rooted in real historical events.

• Intertestamental literature sheds light on Jewish expectations and worldview.

• History and theology are inseparable lenses for interpreting Scripture.

• Pastors and students should integrate historical insights without overwhelming congregations.

• Christianity’s distinctiveness in the ancient world was radical and transformative.

Sound Bites

• History grips you and provides conviction.

• Jesus comes into a world where politics and religion are two sides of the same coin.

• Understanding the historical framework helps us see theological implications.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Todd Chipman’s Background

2. 01:19 The Surprising Benefit of Historical Study

3. 03:37 How History Shapes Preaching and Pastoral Ministry

4. 06:21 Insights from Second Temple Judaism and Intertestamental Literature

5. 10:50 John 11 and the League of Assistance

6. 15:44 History, Theology, and Hermeneutics in Concert

7. 18:25 Practical Steps and Recommended Resources

8. 23:47 Christianity’s Distinctiveness in the Ancient World

9. 27:16 Closing Thoughts

Summary

This conversation with Global Campus professor Matt Boswell, Robyn Lowrie, and Andrew Cole explores the significance of embodiment in online education, particularly in theological contexts. Panelists discuss their personal experiences as online students and instructors, emphasizing the importance of community, mentorship, and local church engagement. They also highlight the challenges and opportunities of online learning, the role of place in education, and the formative aspects of corporate worship. The discussion encourages online students to integrate their studies with their local church context, fostering a holistic approach to education and spiritual formation.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

online education, embodiment, theological education, community, local church, student experience, corporate worship, mentorship, learning, spiritual formation

Takeaways

Online education can feel dehumanizing, but it doesn't have to be.

Embodiment is crucial in both learning and ministry contexts.

Students can cultivate their education while remaining rooted in their local communities.

Mentorship plays a vital role in online theological education.

Corporate worship is essential for spiritual formation and community building.

Online students should actively engage with their local church.

Education should be seen as formative, not just pragmatic.

The local church is integral to theological education.

Students are encouraged to share their learning with their church community.

Everything learned shapes the individual and their ministry.

Sound bites

"We ought to be a little restless."

"The local church is God's plan A."

"It's shaping you in some way."

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Embodiment in Online Education

02:57 Experiences of Online Students and Instructors

05:49 The Role of Place and Community in Learning

09:02 Connecting Online Education with Local Church

12:00 The Formative Role of Corporate Worship

14:12 Encouragement for Online Students to Engage Locally

In this conversation, Travis Montgomery interviews Wes Pastor, a seasoned church planter and pastor, about the importance of understanding true conversion in ministry. Wes shares his journey from a nominal faith to a deeper understanding of conversion, influenced by Jonathan Edwards's writings. They discuss the practical implications of this understanding in preaching, counseling, and church membership processes. Wes also highlights the work of the NETS Center, which trains and sends pastors to New England, emphasizing the need for both theological education and practical ministry experience.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

Wes Pastor, conversion, ministry, NETS Center, counseling, church planting, theological education, pastoral training, New England, evangelism, Jonathan Edwards, Edwards

Takeaways

Understanding true conversion is crucial for effective ministry.

True conversion involves both intellectual assent and heartfelt affection.

Theological constructs can shape practical ministry outcomes.

Counseling can reveal the true spiritual state of individuals.

Marriage counseling has proven to be an effective evangelistic tool.

NETS Center provides essential training for future pastors.

Practical applications of conversion can enhance church growth.

The balance of light (doctrine) and heat (affection) is vital.

Church membership processes should assess genuine faith.

The gospel is necessary for both believers and non-believers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wes Pastor and His Ministry

02:05 Understanding True Conversion

06:14 The Role of Affections in Conversion

10:06 Balancing Light and Heat in Faith

12:04 Practical Applications in Ministry

16:35 Assessing Faith and Assurance

19:26 Understanding Conversion and Testimony

22:20 The Role of Counseling in Evangelism

24:14 Applying the Gospel to Life's Struggles

25:54 Resources for Understanding Conversion

28:35 Introducing the NET Center

29:33 Training Pastors for Effective Ministry

31:18 The New Residency Program

36:13 Encouragement for Future Pastors

Summary

In this conversation, Travis Montgomery and Patrick Schreiner delve into the intricacies of hermeneutics, the study of biblical interpretation. They discuss the importance of understanding the historical context of Scripture, the role of community in interpretation, and the relevance of ancient hermeneutical approaches like allegory. Dr. Schreiner emphasizes the need for a Christ-centered reading of Scripture and the significance of the fourfold sense in understanding biblical texts. The conversation also touches on the challenges of teaching hermeneutics to church congregations and the balance between depth and simplicity in preaching.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

hermeneutics, biblical interpretation, allegory, fourfold sense, community, teaching, intertextuality, preaching, theology, Midwestern Seminary

Takeaways

Hermeneutics is essential for understanding Scripture.

Every class in seminary teaches how to read well.

Community plays a crucial role in biblical interpretation.

The history of hermeneutics offers valuable insights.

Allegory can enrich our understanding of scripture.

The fourfold sense provides a comprehensive framework for interpretation.

Teaching hermeneutics should be accessible to all believers.

Intertextuality enhances our understanding of biblical texts.

Preaching should balance depth with simplicity.

The MBTS Residency PhD program fosters community and scholarship.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Global Campus Forum

01:38 Exploring Hermeneutics: The Art of Biblical Interpretation

05:59 The Importance of Studying Hermeneutics

09:54 The Role of Community in Biblical Interpretation

13:31 Understanding Historical Hermeneutics

21:28 The Fourfold Sense of Scripture

28:07 Understanding Scripture's Integrity

32:14 The Role of Allegory in Interpretation

35:58 Communicating Theology Effectively

40:58 The Residency PhD Program Overview

43:37 Engaging with Complex Questions

54:28 Faith, Hope, and Love in Hermeneutics

For 'Study Stories,' Travis asks a pastor, teacher, or ministry leader, 'What one thing in your theological study has been surprisingly beneficial to your Christian life and ministry?'

In this conversation, Travis Montgomery and Jeff Dodge of Veritas Church and Veritas School of Theology explore the profound impact of listening in ministry and theology. Jeff shares insights from his theological studies, emphasizing the Hebrew concept of listening as a foundational aspect of understanding scripture and engaging with others. They discuss practical applications of listening in ministry, the importance of asking questions, and how to encourage new learners in their spiritual journey. Jeff also highlights valuable resources for theological growth, making a case for the necessity of mentorship and the wealth of literature available to deepen one's understanding of the gospel.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

listening, theology, ministry, discipleship, gospel,teaching, questions, learning, resources, spiritual growth

Takeaways

Listening is foundational in both personal faith andministry.

The Hebrew concept of listening goes beyond mere hearing.

Asking questions enhances understanding and engagement.

Listening can lead to unexpected insights and growth.

Discipleship involves both teaching and learning fromothers.

Resources from theologians can guide spiritual growth.

Engaging with scripture requires a posture of listening.

Listening to others can rekindle one's own faith.

Mentorship is crucial for theological development.

The gospel is a story that requires deep understanding.   

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Listening in Ministry

02:01 The Shema: Understanding Listening in Hebrew Context

04:39 Practical Applications of Listening in Ministry

07:50 The Role of Questions in Effective Listening

10:48 Learning from Others: The Value of Discipleship

13:46 Resources for Theological Growth

16:48 Gospel 101 and 201: A Journey Through the Scriptures

19:42 Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

25:49 Conclusion: The Call to Listen and Learn

This conversation explores the dynamics of authority within the church, emphasizing its God-given nature and the importance of good authority for community flourishing. Dr. Jonathan Leeman, President of 9Marks, discusses the role of elders, the necessity of congregational autonomy, and the balance between authority and submission. The dialogue also addresses the potential for authority to be abused and the need for church discipline to protect the vulnerable. Practical applications and insights are shared, along with a Q&A session that further delves into the topic.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

authority, church, leadership, submission, theology, ecclesiology, community, biblical principles, church governance, pastoral care

Takeaways

Authority is a God-given dynamic that should be understood and respected.

Good authority can lead to flourishing and growth in individuals and communities.

The church is called to practice good authority and submission in a biblical manner.

Authority should not be abused; leaders must protect those under their care.

Congregational autonomy is essential for healthy church governance.

Teaching and modeling good authority is crucial for church leaders.

The effects of authority on individuals can reveal its health or toxicity.

Church discipline is necessary to uphold good authority and protect the vulnerable.

Authority in the church should be exercised with humility and accountability.

The role of elders is to equip the congregation to understand and practice their authority.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Forum

06:19 The Importance of Authority in the Church

13:32 Cultural Perspectives on Authority

20:46 Baptist Ecclesiology and Political Theology

25:59 Explaining the Goodness of Authority

28:50 The Role of Authority in Thriving Relationships

32:11 Navigating Authority: Endurance vs. Escape

34:27 God's Stance on Abusive Authority

36:38 The Need for Good Authority

36:59 Finding Godly Leadership

38:18 Transitioning Leadership Roles

42:03 Cultivating Biblical Eldership

45:59 Understanding Church Authority

50:23 Distinguishing Abuse from Endurance

Welcome to Local Theologians, a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Subscribe and follow for forums and interviews with pastors, professors, Bible teachers, and more. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.