Peaceable And Kind

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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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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In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland kicks off a brand-new mini-series exploring the Nicene Creed, beginning with its opening line: “We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen.”

With warmth, clarity, and wisdom, Derek reflects on what it means to believe in one God in a world of competing idols and spiritual confusion. Drawing from personal stories, ancient Christian belief, and contemporary relevance, this episode helps us reconnect with foundational truths: God is enough. God is Father. And God is our Creator.

Derek also addresses how the Church can lovingly disagree about how God created the world while staying united in the essential truth that God alone is the Creator of all things.

Key Takeaways

The Nicene Creed defines the essentials of the Christian faith and brings unity to believers across denominations.

Belief in “one God” affirms God’s sufficiency and stands against modern-day idols of money, power, and pleasure.

Jesus reveals that God is not distant or abstract, but personal—our Father.

God is the Maker of all that is seen and unseen—creation is not accidental, and every person bears the image of God.

Christians may disagree on the age of the earth or the timeline of creation—but all agree that God is Creator.

Whether you’re new to the Nicene Creed or seeking to deepen your faith, this episode offers a thoughtful starting point that centers your beliefs on the character and nature of God.

🎧 Listen now and be grounded in the faith that has united Christians for centuries.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Genesis 1-2

John 14:9

Psalm 118:24

Psalm 139:13

Books mentioned in this podcast:
What’s a Christian Anyway? by Glenn Packiam: https://amzn.to/4krON7Q
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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In this rich and reflective episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland sits down with author and pastor Glenn Packiam to explore a timeless but timely question: What’s a Christian anyway? Drawing from Glenn’s new book by the same name, the conversation dives deep into the power of the Nicene Creed to shape our identity, unify the church, and guide believers through seasons of doubt, confusion, and cultural chaos.

Together, Derek and Glenn unpack how ancient Christian truths speak directly to modern challenges—offering scaffolding for those deconstructing, rebuilding, or simply seeking spiritual clarity. From the Trinity to the story of salvation, and from sacramental life to the wild work of the Holy Spirit, this episode is both pastoral and practical.

Whether you're a lifelong believer or exploring faith for the first time, this conversation invites you to stay in the boat, embrace a deeper story, and remember that the church is bigger—and more beautiful—than we often realize.

Key Takeaways

Faith is a shared journey—not a solo act. The Creed helps us stay together, even in doubt.

The Nicene Creed echoes Scripture and centers us on the Trinity.

It gives guardrails for understanding who Jesus is and how to stay rooted in truth.

The Christian story leads to new creation—not escape, but renewal and resurrection.

The Holy Spirit leads us into power, obedience, and transformation.

Struggling with faith? Stay in the boat. Let others row when you can’t.

🎧 Listen now and discover why the Creed still matters—and how it can anchor your faith in a world of confusion and corruption.

Books mentioned in this podcast:

Exploring Christian Hope in Contemporary Worship by Glenn Packiam 

Blessed Broken and Given by Glenn Packiam

The Resilient Pastor by Glenn Packiam 

The Intentional Year by Glenn & Holly Packiam

What’s a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam

In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen

The Creed by Luke Timothy Johnson

Acts: A Theological Commentary on the Bible by Willie James Jennings 

Learn more about Glenn’s new book and get free resources at whatsachristiananyway.com

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

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In this final Eastertide episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland invites listeners into a powerful reflection on the resurrection of Jesus—not just as a past event, but as the beginning of God's ongoing work to make all things new.

Drawing from the Christian calendar and the story arc of Scripture—from Advent to Pentecost, and from creation to new creation—Derek unpacks how the resurrection is the first sign of God's “new creation project.” This episode explores how the Holy Spirit empowers us to love, why Jesus' resurrection signals hope for all humanity, and how Revelation 21 offers a stunning vision of God dwelling with His people in a remade world filled with light, love, and life.

Through personal stories, biblical insight, and reflections on the foundational truths of the faith, Derek reminds us that the Christian journey is not just about what we’re saved from—but what we’re saved for.

Key Takeaways

Pentecost marks not just the end of Easter, but the beginning of Spirit-empowered living.

Jesus doesn’t just give us commands—He gives us the power to fulfill them.

The resurrection of Jesus is the first step in God’s plan to renew all creation.

“New creation” is not just symbolic; it’s a real, ongoing reality we’re invited into.

Revelation 21 isn’t about escaping earth—it’s about heaven coming to earth.

The end of the story is hope: no more death, no more tears, only the light and love of the Lamb.

Whether you’re walking through grief, wrestling with tradition, or seeking a deeper hope, this episode will reorient your heart to the promise that God is making all things new—starting now.

🎧 Listen now and be renewed by the promise of resurrection and restoration.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Galatians 6:15
2 Corinthians 5:17
Revelation 1:1
Revelation 21:1-5
Revelation 21:22-26

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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