Mortification of Spin

Iceman and Maverick (aka J.V. Fesko and Craig Carter) are feeling the need…the need for creeds. Though neither will claim the title of “top gun,” both will speak of the necessity of creeds in the life of the Church as they headline the 2022 Prince George’s Conference on Reformed Theology in September. In addition, Iceman—uh, Fesko—has penned an exceptional book on the subject, which provides the foundation for today’s conversation.

Carl and Todd (the Orville and Wilbur Wright of podcasting) engage their “dangerous” guests in a discussion of the biblical and historical case for the creeds and confessions, showing why they are essential for Christian faith and practice today.

Congratulation to our winners of copies of JV Fesko’s book—The Need for Creeds Today: Confessional Faith in a Faithless Age:

*Wayne S. from Gardendale, AL 

*Michael M. from Spartanburg, SC

Show Notes

The 2022 Prince George’s Conference on Reformed Theology

From his high perch within a “boutique denomination,” Carl feels comfortable taking shots at Todd and the much larger PCA. With the sniping finally in check, the didactic duo brings aboard a special guest.

Dr. Steven Duby is the author of Jesus and the God of Classical Theism: Biblical Christology in Light of the Doctrine of God. He’s associate professor of theology at Phoenix Seminary and has written several substantial books on the Doctrine of God. In his latest, Duby asserts that—when Classical Theism informs our Christology—we can better understand Jesus’ unique incarnation, how He relates to the Father and the Holy Spirit, and the efficacy of the Lord’s atonement.

Congratulations to our winners of a copy of Stephen’s book:

*Michael H. from Ft. Lee, NJ 

*Annette Y. of Bull Valley, IL

After revisiting the “trouser color” debate of 2019 (Carl claims a sort of “sartorial panache”), our hosts settle into a more serious discussion. A rather high-profile government appointee publicly displays what is—to most—a rather deplorable lifestyle. Should the Christian say nothing about what this man does in his “private life?” Or should a public servant’s behavior be held to a higher standard?

The conversation naturally moves to the public good and our obligation to the most vulnerable in society: children. Is teaching transgender issues to second graders a deplorable practice or a mere First Amendment exercise? Carl and Todd frankly address the issue and the solution only the Church can offer.

Congratulations to our winners of a copy of Laura Perry’s From Transgender to Transformed: A Story of Transition That Will Truly Set You Free.

*Lee Ann G. of Oklahoma City, OK   

*Jeff G. from Lincoln, NE   

*Michel V. from Hampton, GA

Carl’s ongoing tour in support of his best-selling book provides numerous opportunities to hear from others striving to explain the paradigm of this strange new world. A voice that particularly captured the professor’s attention joins our conversation today.

Is identity primarily defined by race? Monique Duson reminds us that, as a believer, your identity begins with who you are in Christ. Thus, the Church is our best hope for solving the challenges of racism and inequality. A one-time advocate for Critical Race Theory (CRT), Monique discovered the contradictions between the vision of CRT and the Christian worldview, and founded the Center for Biblical Unity (CFBU), leading respectful and Bible-centered conversations about race, justice, and unity.

Whether you’ve been “canceled,” or seek to provoke meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion, Monique’s small group curriculum Reconciled outlines a biblical approach to racial unity. Congratulations to our winner of a copy of the curriculum, Bret R. from San Luis Obispo, CA.

It’s one of the more intriguing titles one might encounter--Confessions of a French Atheist: How God Hijacked my Quest to Disprove the Christian Faith. And as our heroes settle in to discuss the book, Messieurs Trueman and Pruitt find its author to be just as engaging. No longer an atheist (but still very much French), Guillaume Bignon is an analytical philosopher and computer scientist working in New York’s financial industry. Guillaume came to faith through an unlikely series of providential meetings and conversations with Christians around the world. As the foundations of his unbelief began to crumble, Bignon discovered the wonder of a God that offers salvation freely and not by good works. Listen as the three discuss miracles, evolution, and the intersection of faith and science.

Congratulations to our winners of Guillaume’s book, courtesy of Tyndale House:

*Timm H. of Berwyn, IL

*Mark F. of Lancaster, PA

*Debby F. from Wofford Heights, CA

Carl welcomes a rare participant into today’s discussion: a former student still willing to acknowledge the experience! Kyle Davis is an American serving in South Africa as the Bible Translation Fellowship executive director. Kyle asserts that there are over 7300 languages in the world, yet a complete translation of the Scriptures is available in only 10% of those tongues.

Such sobering statistics compel Kyle to provide support for those who make Bible translation their mission. As many within the Church are moving away from the written Word toward narrative and storytelling, Davis reminds us that God gave us a Book, and all literate language groups need to learn from its text. Listen, and gain a fresh appreciation for the value of Scripture.

Congratulations to our winners of Vern Poythress’ In the Beginning Was the Word:

*Parker B. from Marietta, GA

*James A. from Marshall, MN

*Walker T. from Auburn, AL

Show Notes

*BibleTranslationFellowship.org

The “Lady Writer” who (perhaps unwittingly) bestowed upon our own Todd Pruitt his “Major Pastor” credentials is today’s special guest. Co-host, professor, and rap artist Carl Trueman joins in to welcome Megan Basham, culture reporter for the Daily Wire. All superfluous titles aside, the three discuss an essential topic: the disturbing state of what is currently referred to as "responsible journalism."

Why have the mainstream news and entertainment media become mere PR outlets for the political and cultural elites? When did journalists stop holding our leaders accountable, choosing instead to defend a singular perspective that would make even Orwell blush? Megan takes on her media colleagues and the most controversial topics of the day in this high-energy conversation!

Though pastoral duties call Todd away from the podcast today, Carl nonetheless enjoys a pleasant conversation with Geoffrey Thomas. Our guest is a seminary professor and conference speaker who served over 50 years behind a pulpit in Aberystwyth, Wales. Geoffrey’s outstanding autobiography, In the Shadow of the Rock, recalls the friendships gained and lessons learned over decades of ministering the Word. 

Thomas recalls some of his favorite teachers (John Murray, Cornelius Van Til, et al.), his formative years in the pastorate, and the tale of a close (automotive) encounter with the late J.I. Packer! Thomas’ joy is evident throughout as Carl delights in interviewing one of his heroes. Don’t miss it!

Congratulations to our winners of a free copy of In the Shadow of the Rock: 

*Chris S. of Bowie, MD 

*Keith W. from Guelph, Ontario 

*Tim R. from Cumming, GA

"Major Pastor" Pruitt and "the Reverend Dr." Trueman condescend to welcome Tony Reinke to the podcast. He's a journalist, author, and senior teacher for Desiring God. Tony's focus on Christian theology and ethics has led him to write a number of books examining technology's influences, including his latest: God, Technology, and the Christian Life.

Is technology morally neutral? Has your smartphone truly changed your life? Do the various online platforms shape how we communicate and what we value? Enjoy an eye-opening conversation with the internet's foremost Herman Bavinck fan! 

Congratulations to our winner of a copy of Tony's book:

*Andy N. from Westlake, OH

Jonathan Edwards characterized sin as an unbearable weight that—without the securing hand of God—would inevitably drag the unbeliever down a slippery slope into hell. In recent times, however, many have reduced sin to merely “missing the mark” or “experiencing brokenness.” In his new book, Canadian PCA pastor Mark Jones helps his readers see the neglected doctrine of sin through the eyes of the Puritans rather than in the more psychological ethic of contemporary evangelical culture.

Dr. Jones joins Carl and Todd to discuss the origins of sin and how ignorance of the holiness of God has left so many Christians with such an anemic view of sin. Along the way, Mark reminds us that seeing sin for what it truly is helps the believer more fully appreciate his need for a savior and the powerful grace offered by God.

Congratulations to our winners of Knowing Sin: Seeing a Neglected Doctrine through the Eyes of the Puritans:

*Brad P. from Prattville, AL 

*Enoch C. from Cambridge, MA   

*Scott R. from Syracuse, NY

Show Note

Let Your Sins Be Strong: Luther’s Letter to Melanchthon