In this deeply personal episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland shares why he took a step back from the popular Charismatic subculture—but not from the Spirit-filled life that first drew him in. 

Derek shares his spiritual journey from Southern Baptist roots to charismatic renewal, through Pentecostal seminary training, and ultimately into a more theologically grounded and historically rooted faith. While he still embraces the gifts and power of the Holy Spirit, Derek outlines eight specific values within the pop Charismatic movement that led him to walk away—including anti-intellectualism, spiritual elitism, and prosperity-driven faith. 

This episode is a heartfelt reflection on what it means to follow the Spirit with wisdom, humility, and discernment. Derek explores how academic theology, the contemplative tradition, and the global church have all enriched his understanding of God the Holy Spirit—and why he now calls himself a "charismatic with a seatbelt." 

If you’ve ever felt torn between being open to the Holy Spirit and staying grounded in theology, this episode is for you. 
 
Key Takeaways 

✔️ Why intellectual rigor and Spirit-led faith are not at odds 
✔️ The danger of measuring spiritual maturity solely by emotion 
✔️ How spiritual elitism harms church unity and witness 
✔️ Why selective Bible reading weakens discipleship 
✔️ The real meaning of blessing, healing, and power of the Holy Spirit 

🎧 Listen now and explore what it looks like to follow the Holy Spirit with passion and wisdom. 

Scriptures mentioned in this episode: 

Galatians 4:13  

Hebrews 11:1–40 

Genesis 12:1–3 

Galatians 5:22–23 

Revelation 21:1–4 

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs 

Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! 

Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com 

Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook 
 
Episode Website 

In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland invites you into a personal and theological journey to better understand one of the most mysterious persons of the Trinity: God the Holy Spirit.

Derek shares how his view of the Holy Spirit has evolved—from childhood questions in a Southern Baptist church to transformative encounters as a teenager, through charismatic experiences, and into a mature, ecumenical appreciation for the Spirit’s work today. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and his own story, Derek unpacks why the Holy Spirit is not just an idea or force—but God’s living presence, shaping us to love and live like Jesus.

Along the way, Derek reflects on the Spirit’s role as the agent of God’s work on earth, the giver of spiritual gifts, and the power behind personal and communal transformation. He also highlights the wisdom of Father Raniero Cantalamessa and the invitation for all believers to seek fresh encounters with the Spirit—not once, but over and over.

Whether you’re curious about spiritual gifts, wondering about baptism in the Holy Spirit, or simply longing for renewal, this episode will help you open your heart to God’s ongoing work.

Key Takeaways

✔️ The Holy Spirit is God’s personal presence, not an impersonal force.

✔️ The Spirit empowers believers with love, gifts, and Christlike character.

✔️ Spiritual experiences and scriptural grounding can (and should) go hand in hand.

✔️ Seeking the Holy Spirit is not a one-time event but an ongoing invitation.

✔️ Renewal by the Spirit is essential for both personal faith and church life.

🎧 Listen now and renew your openness to the peace, power, and kindness of God the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Acts 1:8

Romans 5:5

John 20:22

1 Corinthians 13

Jeremiah 31:31–33

Galatians 5:22–23

Books mentioned in this podcast:
Come, Creator Spirit by Raniero Cantalamessa

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In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland explores the important relationship between the gospel and the Holy Spirit—a continuation of his recent conversation with theologian Matthew Bates on the definition of the gospel in the New Testament.

As summer rolls on, Derek reflects on the creative highs and lows of writing and shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his process (including an early morning spent fine-tuning a footnote on John Wesley!). He shares how writing and podcasting are extensions of his pastoral calling.

This week’s episode focuses on one essential insight: the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is part of the gospel message. Drawing from Acts 2, 3, and 5, Derek unpacks how the Spirit is present in the earliest gospel sermons preached by Peter. He shows how this insight, often overlooked, reaffirms the inseparable operations of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Spirit working together in the work of salvation.

You’ll also hear three striking patterns in the gospel sermons in Acts:

No mention of heaven or hell

A clear emphasis that humanity killed Jesus and God raised him

A consistent declaration that Jesus is Lord, Messiah, and King

The outpouring of the Spirit isn’t just a one-time event—it’s part of the good news. The Spirit isn’t an optional afterthought but integral to how Jesus continues his rule in and through his people.

Whether you’ve questioned how the Holy Spirit fits into the gospel or are simply seeking to see the gospel with fresh eyes, this episode will help you make that connection.

Key Takeaways

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is not just a result of the gospel—it is part of the gospel.

The gospel proclaimed in Acts includes the resurrection, kingship of Jesus, and the giving of the Spirit.

The doctrine of inseparable operations teaches that the Trinity works in unity; the Spirit’s work is not separate from the work of Christ.

“The content of the gospel you preach informs the kind of disciples you make.”

🎧 Listen now and rediscover how the Spirit animates the full gospel message.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Beyond the Salvation Wars by Matthew Bates

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Acts 2:33, 2:36

Acts 3:15, 3:20

Acts 5:30, 5:32, 5:42

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In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland sits down with theologian and author Matthew Bates for a lively and challenging conversation about his newest book, Beyond the Salvation Wars: Why Both Protestants and Catholics Must Reimagine How We Are Saved.

Matthew is Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, co-host of the OnScript podcast, and an author whose work has deeply influenced the way we think about the gospel. Drawing from N.T. Wright, Scot McKnight, and others, Matthew has developed the "gospel allegiance" model of salvation—centered on the idea that saving faith (Greek: pistis) means allegiance to King Jesus.

In this episode, Derek and Matthew dig into what that means for long-standing theological divides between Protestants and Catholics, Calvinists and Arminians.

With humor, candor, and a bit of theological edge, this conversation explores everything from the whether or not baptism is the starting point of salvation to the backlash Matthew has received from critics of his allegiance model. Derek doesn’t hold back in sharing how Bates’ work has shaped his thinking, even challenging his own sacramental theology.

Whether you're Reformed, Catholic, Orthodox, or somewhere in between, this episode invites you to reconsider how we talk about salvation—and why it matters now more than ever.

Key Takeaways

Saving faith is better understood as allegiance to Jesus as King.

The gospel allegiance model offers a bridge across Protestant-Catholic and Calvinist-Arminian divides.

Baptism is not an event but a nuanced process which begins by the declaration of allegiance.

Matthew Bates’ work has drawn pushback—especially from some within the Reformed tradition—but also offers a hopeful vision for Christian unity around the gospel.

Distinguishing between God’s saving action, the means of reception, and the results can bring clarity to complex debates.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Salvation by Allegiance Alone – Matthew Bates

Gospel Allegiance – Matthew Bates

The Gospel Precisely – Matthew Bates

Why the Gospel? – Matthew Bates

Beyond the Salvation Wars – Matthew Bates

The King Jesus Gospel – Scot McKnight

🎧 Listen now and enter the conversation on what it really means to be saved—and what kind of gospel we are called to believe.

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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Leave a review

Share it with your friends—even if you think it’s heresy 😉

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In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland wraps up our series on the Nicene Creed with its powerful final lines—covering the Church, baptism, and what Christians hope for in the end:

“We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.”

With honesty, warmth, and a deep love for the Church, Derek explores how these final affirmations hold hope and healing for Christians today—especially for those hurt by churches or struggling to find their place in Christian community.

Drawing from his own teenage years and spiritual formation in a nurturing Baptist church, Derek testifies to the beauty and brokenness of the Church. He offers grace to those wounded by toxic church leadership and reminds listeners why the Church—imperfect as she is—is still the beloved bride of Christ.

Whether you’ve loved the Church, been burned by it, or feel caught somewhere in between, this episode calls us back to what defines us: one Church, one baptism, one great hope in the resurrection and the life to come.

Key Takeaways

The Church is one—unity is central to Jesus’ prayer for his followers (John 17:21).

The Church is holy—we are set apart to live distinctively in the world.

The Church is catholic meaning “universal”, and includes all who affirm the essentials of Christian faith.

The Church is apostolic—rooted in the teaching of the apostles and the continuing work of the Spirit.

The Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) helped heal Protestant-Catholic division by affirming shared faith in Christ and calling Protestants “separated brothers and sisters.”

Lumen Gentium, a key document from Vatican II, reframed the Catholic Church’s identity and opened the door to meaningful Christian unity.

We are united in the essentials—even if we disagree on politics, denominations, or music styles.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover the hope of the Church and the life of the world to come.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

John 17:21
John 17:14-19
Revelation 21:1-5

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

Did this series on the Nicene Creed help you reconnect with your faith? Here’s how you can support the show:

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In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues exploring the Nicene Creed in honor of its 1700th anniversary—this time diving deep into one of the most overlooked and misunderstood persons of the Trinity: God the Holy Spirit.

Derek shares how his view of the Holy Spirit has grown over the years—from powerful experiences as a teenager in Pentecostal circles to a deeper understanding of the Spirit’s role, shaped by the rich traditions of the Christian faith. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and his own spiritual journey, he unpacks why the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or feeling—but a personal, co-eternal presence alongside the Father and the Son. Along the way, he illustrates how the Spirit has moved in fresh and powerful ways throughout history—not just in biblical times.

Whether you’re curious about spiritual gifts, wrestling with charismatic culture, or simply hungry for a deeper encounter with God, this episode will renew your understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role in your life today.

Key Takeaways

The Holy Spirit is fully God—personal, divine, and worthy of worship.

The Spirit transforms hearts from the inside out, not just behaviors.

Jesus empowers believers through the Spirit to live out the commands of love.

Spiritual renewal reveals the ongoing work of the Spirit.

Charismatic experience and historic liturgy can coexist within a Spirit-led life.

Praying “Come, Holy Spirit” remains vital for daily spiritual strength and guidance.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover the beauty, mystery, and power of God the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

John 20:22

Acts 1:8

Acts 2: 1-4

Genesis 2:7

Jeremiah 31:31-33

Galatians 5:22-23

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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In this rich and reflective episode, host Derek Vreeland walks us through the final lines of the Jesus section of the Nicene Creed—unpacking what it means that Christ suffered, died, rose again, ascended, and will come again in glory.

From the historical reality of the crucifixion under Pontius Pilate to the promise of Christ’s return, Derek helps listeners grasp how these core beliefs are more than theological statements—they are the heart of the Christian hope. You'll hear insights into why Jesus had to truly die, how the resurrection fulfills Scripture, and what it means to live with joyful anticipation of Christ’s kingdom that has no end.

Whether you’re new to the Nicene Creed or looking for deeper reflection, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and challenge.

Key Takeaways

The crucifixion of Jesus rescues us from sin and reveals the love of God.

Mentioning Pontius Pilate grounds Jesus’ death in history—it really happened.

Jesus descended into death not to suffer, but to defeat it for our sake.

“He rose on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures” connects the resurrection to the entire Old Testament story.

Jesus' ascension means He now reigns with authority from the “control room of heaven.”

Discover the answer to when Jesus will return in Revelation 22:20.

His kingdom is both present and coming—and it will never end.

🎧 Listen now to discover the heartbeat of Christian hope through the Creed’s most powerful promises.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Job 19:25–27
Isaiah 26:19
Daniel 12:2
Hosea 6:2
John 3:17
Matthew 24:36

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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In this special episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland steps away from his ongoing Nicene Creed series for a heartfelt conversation about parenting and discipleship with author and pastor David Sunde.

David shares insights from his new book Homegrown Disciples: Parenting Rhythms for Drawing Your Kids into Life with God. Together, they reflect on what it means to raise children who don’t just attend church—but truly encounter Jesus through the ordinary, everyday rhythms of family life.

From the challenges of raising kids in a pastor’s home to the joys of grandparenting, Derek and David explore how parenting is both a spiritual practice and a sacred apprenticeship. They unpack how rhythms like compassion, generosity, gratitude, and hospitality help form children’s faith, not through perfection, but through vulnerability, honesty, and presence.

If you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver longing to disciple the next generation with authenticity and grace, this episode will leave you encouraged, inspired, and equipped.

Key Takeaways

Parenting is a sacred apprenticeship—a hands-on way of showing kids how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

Spiritual leadership in the home isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being honest and present.

Rhythms like compassion and generosity make abstract beliefs tangible for kids.

Ordinary moments—mealtime, bedtime, drive time—are powerful opportunities for spiritual formation.

Kids learn best by watching us live the faith, not just hearing us talk about it.

Discipleship starts at home, in the real, messy, beautiful rhythms of family life.

Whether you're in the trenches of toddlerhood or navigating the teen years, this episode reminds us that God is with us—forming us as we form our children.

🎧 Listen now and discover the joy of parenting with eternal purpose.

Books mentioned in this podcast:

Homegrown Disciples: Parenting Rhythms for Drawing Your Kids into Life with God by David Sunde

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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In this theologically rich episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland continues his series on the Nicene Creed by reflecting on a pivotal line: “For us and for our salvation, he came down from heaven.”

Derek unpacks what it means for Jesus to come “for us”—not just for individuals, but for a collective us—and why the incarnation is the starting point of salvation. Along the way, he offers thoughtful insights on salvation as transformation (not just a ticket to heaven), evangelism as discipleship, and why honoring Mary, the Blessed Virgin, deepens our understanding of the gospel.

This episode blends humor, biblical depth, church history, and personal storytelling to help listeners grasp the beauty of Jesus’ incarnation—and the revolutionary truth that salvation begins not at the cross, but in a manger.

Key Takeaways

Salvation isn’t a status we possess—it’s a lifelong process of healing, transformation, and becoming like Jesus.

Jesus didn’t come to make better citizens—He came to make disciples who embody His kingdom.

“For us and our salvation” reminds us that the gospel is personal, but never private—it builds a new us called the church.

Mary’s “yes” to God marks a turning point in salvation history—her obedience undoes Eve’s disobedience.

Honoring Mary isn’t worship—it’s recognizing her vital role in the incarnation of Jesus.

Salvation begins with the incarnation: God becoming flesh through the Virgin Mary to live among us, rescue us, and remake us in His image.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Luke 1:39-45

Luke 1:38

John 1:14

If you've ever wrestled with what it means to be “saved,” or wondered how ancient creeds connect to modern faith, this episode will deepen your understanding of God's saving love.

🎧 Listen now and be reminded: Jesus moved into our neighborhood—for you, for me, and for all of us.

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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In this foundational episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland dives into the heart of the Nicene Creed—the bold, ancient declaration that Jesus is “one Lord… true God from true God.” As we continue our journey through the Creed, Derek unpacks the opening lines of the Christ section, exploring what it really means to say that Jesus is Lord, King, and the eternal Son of God.

With theological insight, personal reflection, and a bit of humor, Derek traces the biblical and historical roots of key phrases like “begotten, not made” and “of one being with the Father,” while making space for mystery, awe, and wonder.

Whether you’re exploring the Creed for the first time or revisiting familiar words with fresh eyes, this episode will anchor your faith in the person of Jesus—fully God, fully man, and King of all.

Key Takeaways

The Nicene Creed affirms Jesus as fully divine and fully human—the foundation of Christian belief about who He is.

Saying “one Lord Jesus Christ” boldly proclaims that Jesus, not Caesar or culture, holds ultimate authority in our lives.

The title “Christ” means King—Jesus is not just Savior but Ruler, deserving our full allegiance and trust.

Jesus is the eternal Son of God—He was not made but shares the same divine essence as the Father.

Through Jesus, all things were made—He is both the Word of creation and the King of the cosmos.

🎧 Listen now and explore how the Nicene Creed helps us see Jesus clearly and love him more deeply.

Scriptures mentioned in this podcast:

John 3:16

Genesis 1:1

John 1:1

Books mentioned in this podcast:

What’s a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam

The Creed by Luke Timothy Johnson

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out!

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