MarsCast

By Mid-America Reformed SeminaryReligion & Spirituality Christianity

MarsCast episodes

August 31, 2023 190. Christian Nationalism: An Introduction
In this episode, Dr. Alan Strange briefly introduces the controversial ideology known today as Christian Nationalism. He shares his overall assessment of the movement and provides a solid background of the phenomenon, addressing the question, "How did we get here?"
17 min
August 24, 2023 189. Pastoral Visitation: The Sick and Dying
In today's episode, Rev. Paul Ipema concludes his three-part series on pastoral visitation by exploring the role pastors and elders play in providing solace and support to the sick and dying. Sharing insights gained through years of ministering to those facing health challenges and end-of-life circumstances, Rev. Ipema once again helps us see the criticalness of pastoral visitation and how meaningful Christ-centered interactions can guide parishioners on the path from fear to one of hope.
17 min
August 17, 2023 188. Pastoral Visitation: Troubled Youth
In today's episode, Rev. Paul Ipema continues his three-part series on effective pastoral visitation. Having already covered visitation with the elderly in our previous episode, Rev. Ipema now focuses on the important but often challenging task of visiting troubled youth within the church community.
18 min
August 10, 2023 187. Pastoral Visitation: The Elderly
In today’s episode, Rev. Paul Ipema begins a new three-part series on pastoral visitation, visiting three different groups of congregants and how pastors, and others in the church, can compassionately support them through times of hardship. Today Rev. Ipema begins with the elderly.
17 min
August 03, 2023 186. Corporate Chaplaincy
In today’s episode, we hand the reins over to Dr. Andrew Compton, who will guide us through an insightful conversation with Mid-America alumnus Rev. Tim McClymonds. Our focal point today is the world of corporate chaplaincy. As Dr. Compton looks at this topic with Rev. McClymonds, we'll explore how these dedicated individuals provide invaluable support, solace, and spiritual guidance to employees amidst the challenges of the workplace.
31 min
July 27, 2023 185. What Can A Pope Teach Us About Pastoral Care?
In today’s episode, Rev. Paul Ipema takes us through the life and contributions of Pope Gregory the Great, a revered figure in Christian history, painting a vivid picture of Pope Gregory's influential
work, “The Book of Pastoral Rule.” Rev. Ipema discusses how Pope Gregory's words have transcended the centuries and continue to offer invaluable insights to contemporary pastoral caregivers. From the challenges of leadership to the delicate art of guiding and shepherding a diverse congregation, the principles laid out in “The Book of Pastoral Rule” remain as pertinent today as they were during Gregory's time.
21 min
July 20, 2023 184. What Can Church History Teach Us About Pastoral Care?
In today’s episode, Rev. Paul Ipema, Assistant Professor of Ministerial Studies, gives us an overview of the connection between Church history and the practice of ministry today, particularly pastoral care. Teasing a deeper exploration, what he’ll do in this episode is set the stage for the forthcoming episode, centered around Pope Gregory the Great’s transformative influence on pastoral care.
15 min
July 13, 2023 183. Assurance and the Fruit of Salvation
In today’s episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema concludes his series on assurance of salvation by examining the topic of the fruit of salvation and whether it can genuinely be considered a ground for one’s confidence and assurance of salvation. Can the visible evidence of a transformed life, the growth in godliness, and the bearing of spiritual fruit truly provide a firm foundation for one's assurance? Dr. Venema answers this question and more in today’s episode of Round Table.
22 min
July 06, 2023 182. Assurance of Salvation and the Testimony of the Holy Spirit
In today's episode, Dr. Cornelis Venema delves into the second ground of assurance of salvation as outlined in the Canons of Dort, exploring the profound concept of the testimony of the Holy Spirit. What is the testimony of the Holy Spirit? How does it manifest in the lives of believers? What scriptural basis supports this doctrine? How does it contribute to our assurance of salvation? Dr. Venema provides insightful answers, clarifying misconceptions and shedding light on the transformative power of the Holy Spirit's testimony.
24 min
June 29, 2023 181. Assurance of Salvation and the Gospel Promises
Welcome back to Mid-America Reformed Seminary's Round Table podcast. After a rejuvenating month-long hiatus, we are thrilled to be back, eager to bring you fresh and inspiring content that will stimulate your minds and nurture your souls. In today's episode, we are excited to introduce a captivating new series on Assurance of Salvation featuring Dr. Cornelis Venema, who will serve as our guide through this captivating exploration of the grounds of assurance. In this inaugural episode, he will delve into the very heart of the matter, focusing on the gospel promises that lay the foundation for our confidence in salvation.
24 min