RenewalCast

Jay Book Interview    
In this episode of Renewal Cast, hosts Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf introduce listeners to a Law and Gospel catechism written by Jay, designed to benefit both individuals and families. The podcast dives into the importance of catechesis and memorization in learning foundational Christian concepts. They emphasize the relevance and practicality of understanding the distinction between law and gospel in interpreting scripture and motivating individuals to live a life aligned with Christian teachings. Additionally, they highlight how the catechism, despite being brief, serves as a valuable tool for deepening one's understanding of Biblical principles.

Episode Highlights
 00:00:05: Introduction to Renewal Cast as a platform for biblical and theological discourse.
 00:00:38: Introduction of the episode topic, focusing on a Law and Gospel Catechism authored by Jay.
 00:01:46: Background on the creation of the catechism, including inspirations from teaching through Romans.
 00:02:42: Discussion on the value of catechesis and memorization in learning Christian doctrine.
 00:03:32: Clarification on misconceptions about catechism and its roots in Christian education.
 00:04:26: Exploration of rote memorization versus modern educational theories and its role in faith.
 00:05:24: Comparison of earning eternal life through the law versus understanding grace.
 00:06:25: Examination of the lack of fundamental Christian understanding among modern evangelicals.
 00:07:24: Discusses the comprehensiveness of the catechism across different Christian traditions.
 00:08:28: Highlights key scripture texts that shaped Jay's catechism, including passages from Romans.
 00:10:23: Broad endorsement and feedback on the catechism from various Christian denominations.
 00:12:32: Clarifies misconceptions and provides interpretation of scriptural examples using law and gospel distinction.
 00:15:16: Discussion on the importance of the law of liberty and its connection to freedom and obedience.
 00:17:18: Addressing different approaches and interpretations of biblical texts using law and gospel distinction.
 00:18:00: Emphasizes motivation for keeping the law and understanding grace-filled obedience.
 00:19:29: Concludes with recommendations for utilizing the catechism in various educational settings. Key Takeaways

About the Guest(s): Tom Hicks: Tom Hicks is an emerging author and a respected voice in theological circles. With a deep commitment to exploring and clarifying Reformed Baptist doctrines, Hicks has contributed significant insights into the intersection of theology and ecclesiology. His unexpected venture into writing has resulted in a book titled "What is a Reformed Baptist?" which addresses common misconceptions and articulates the foundational tenets of Reformed Baptist theology. Hicks is connected with Founders Ministries, a notable organization championing reformed theology within Baptist traditions.

Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of Renewalcast, hosts Colt Robinson and Jay Wipf engage in a profound discussion with Tom Hicks, author of the newly released book "What is a Reformed Baptist?" Hicks dives into the often-debated concept of Reformed Baptist theology, tackling prevalent misconceptions about the identity and doctrinal positions of Reformed Baptists. Through their engaging conversation, Robinson, Wipf, and Hicks bring clarity to the nuanced intersections of Reformed theology, Baptist ecclesiology, and historical theology. Throughout the episode, Hicks offers a detailed exploration of the historical and doctrinal roots of Reformed Baptist thought, elucidating key themes such as confessionalism and the distinct usage and divisions of the law in theology. Drawing from historical precedents and scriptural evidence, Hicks elaborates on the threefold division of the law—moral, ceremonial, and judicial—and its practical implications for believers today. Additionally, the trio explore the critical importance of confessionalism and its role in maintaining theological clarity and continuity within the Reformed Baptist tradition.

 Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Reformed Baptist Identity: Hicks challenges the notion that "Reformed Baptist" is an oxymoron, detailing its historical and doctrinal foundations.
• Confessionalism's Role: The episode stresses the significance of confessionalism in articulating clear, biblically grounded beliefs within the church.
• Threefold Division of the Law: A comprehensive overview of how the moral, ceremonial, and judicial laws interact and their relevance today.
• The Three Uses of the Law: Hicks outlines the civil, pedagogical, and normative uses, emphasizing their ongoing role in guiding Christian living.
• Worship Principles: A discussion on the regulative principle of worship, highlighting the simplicity and theological focus of Reformed Baptist services.

Notable Quotes:

1. "If you're really strict with the word Reformed, technically, you could argue that even Presbyterians aren't Reformed." - Tom Hicks
2. "Words tend to morph and they broaden out in their meaning over time." - Tom Hicks
3. "The law says do this. The Gospel says done." - Tom Hicks
4. "We are tapping into a broader ecclesiastical or churchly stream of confession." - Tom Hicks
5. "Reformed worship usually looks the same. It looks very much the same across the Reformed churches." - Tom Hicks

Resources:

• Founders Ministries: founders.org - The organizational platform mentioned where Tom Hicks's book can be acquired.
• Tom Hicks's Book: "What is a Reformed Baptist?" available on Founders Ministries and possibly Amazon post-March 1st.

Listeners are encouraged to delve into this thought-provoking episode to gain a deeper understanding of Reformed Baptist beliefs and practices. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on Renewalcast as Colt Robinson and Jay Wipf continue to explore significant theological themes.

About the Guest(s):
 Robert Kolb: Robert Kolb is a distinguished professor at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, with a career spanning over decades. Despite retiring 15 years ago, he remains actively engaged in teaching. Kolb is an esteemed author specializing in Reformation theology, having penned numerous books on Martin Luther, the Augsburg Confession, and contributed to the anthology "Reformation Theology" by Matthew Barrett. His academic journey included work with post-Soviet churches across Eastern Europe, profoundly shaping his theological perspective.

Episode Summary:
In this enlightening episode of RenewalCast, hosts Colt Robinson and Jay Wipf engage with Robert Kolb, a prominent Lutheran scholar, as they delve into Martin Luther's profound theological thought. The discussion navigates through Luther's approach to theology, his dynamic personality, and his grounding reality framed through face-to-face relationships with God, the world, and others. Highlighting Kolb's work, "Face to Face with Luther," the conversation unpacks how Luther's views were shaped amidst the sociopolitical upheavals of his time. Robert Kolb provides a comprehensive examination of Luther's theological landscape, focusing on the themes of God's Word, human vocation, and spiritual warfare. Key topics include Luther's interpretation of the law-gospel distinction and his concepts of vocation and divine communication. Kolb elucidates how these foundational ideas translate into practical discipleship and societal engagement, offering insight into their continued relevance today. Packed with historical context and scholarly insights, this episode serves as an essential exploration for anyone interested in Reformation thought and its contemporary implications.

Key Takeaways:

• Martin Luther's theology centers on the distinction between law and gospel, emphasizing God's communication through Scripture.
• Luther's concept of face-to-face interactions is pivotal in understanding his perspective on theology and everyday Christian life.
• The interplay between personal faith and societal roles is crucial in Luther's teaching on vocation and calling.
• The presence of evil, seen through Luther's increased references to the devil post-1521, enriches understanding of spiritual struggles.
• Kolb underscores the assurance found in Christ's work, which liberates believers to serve others meaningfully.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Luther said there's no place where the Holy Spirit is more present than in the pages of Scripture."
2. "Being face to face with [the devil] was a key part of Luther's sense of how to bring comfort and consolation to believers."
3. "God's in constant communication. He's in our face."
4. "Luther said that when we try to take the law influencing God with our performance, we're always going to be turned in on ourselves."
5. "I think there's a very practical aspect to knowing that Christ is the one who died and rose for me and that he makes a difference for me in daily life."

Resources:

• Face to Face with Luther by Robert Kolb (referenced book)
• Reformation Theology edited by Matthew Barrett (contribution reference)

Encouraging listeners to dive into this detailed discussion, this episode offers deep insights into Martin Luther's theological views and their significance today. Stay connected for more thought-provoking content on RenewalCast, where biblical and theological discussions come alive.

About the Guest(s):
David VanDrunen is a respected scholar and professor of Systematic Theology and Christian Ethics at Westminster Seminary, California, located in Escondido, near San Diego. With over two decades of experience, he has extensively researched and discussed areas like natural law and Christian ethics. VanDrunen is also an ordained minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and an accomplished author, contributing significantly to theological education.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Renewal Cast, hosts Coalt Robinson and Jay Wipf engage with David VanDrunen to delve into the profound subject of natural law. The discussion promises enriching insights into how humans inherently understand moral laws through God’s revelation in nature, a topic VanDrunen has thoroughly explored in his scholarly work. Packed with biblical references and theological depth, the episode is engineered to provide listeners with a clearer understanding of how natural law integrates with Christian faith and practice. Unpacking the central themes of natural law as depicted in scripture, particularly through the lens of Romans 1 and 2, VanDrunen explains how these biblical passages underscore a universal moral awareness inherent to humanity. The dialogue further extends to explore the interrelation between natural law and the two kingdoms doctrine, illuminating how moral standards transcend cultural and religious boundaries, binding all humankind in a shared understanding of right and wrong. VanDrunen emphasizes the historical and theological significance of natural law, showing its role in guiding ethical and public life.

Key Takeaways:

• Natural law is God's law revealed in the natural order, universally known by all humans through their consciences.
• Romans 1 and 2 provide a biblical basis for understanding natural law, emphasizing that all people are aware of God’s laws inherently.
• Natural law assists in public policy and ethical living by offering a common moral standard for believers and non-believers.
• The Mosaic covenant reflects natural law but includes additional context relevant to Israel’s unique historical role.
• A thoughtful interpretation of natural law should be guided by scripture, aligning human life choices with God’s design.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Natural law is God's law, not as delivered in scripture, but as revealed in the natural order."
2. "No one can escape natural law – Romans one says everyone knows it."
3. "The Mosaic law reflects the natural law but gives it to Israel in a way that's consistent with their unique place in redemptive history."
4. "We need to make the distinction that natural theology is fallible and natural revelation is infallible."
5. "Natural law provides a common moral standard and helps us promote principles of good living in our shared public life."

Resources:

• David VanDrunen's works on natural law and Christian ethics.
• Reference to Romans chapters 1 and 2 for biblical context.
• Analysis of Genesis 20 and Amos 1 in relation to natural law.
• Discussion of the two kingdoms doctrine.

For those interested in exploring the depth of Christian ethics and understanding natural law’s role in faith and societal engagement, listening to the full episode is highly recommended. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on Renewal Cast, where theological wisdom and biblical insights come together for thoughtful discourse.

About the Guest(s): William Boekestein is the pastor of Emmanuel Fellowship Church in Kalamazoo, West Michigan. With a deep passion for biblical and theological education, William is also an accomplished author. He has written a book titled "Finding My Vocation: A Guide to Young People Seeking a Calling," among others. William, along with his wife Amy and their four children, has a vested interest in helping young people discover and pursue their God-given vocations. Episode Summary: In this episode of RenewalCast, hosts Colt Robinson and Jay Whiff are joined by returning guest William Boekestein to discuss his latest book, "Finding My Vocation: A Guide to Young People Seeking a Calling." Through a rich conversation filled with biblical insights and practical advice, William shares his thoughts on how young people can identify and grow into their vocations. The episode dives into the meanings of calling and vocation from a scriptural viewpoint, providing listeners with a solid foundation on how to approach their careers and life's work. The discussion explores various aspects of vocation, addressing common questions about finding the perfect career, balancing different vocations like family, work, and church, and the specific challenges and opportunities faced by pastors. William emphasizes that the journey to discovering one’s vocation is not about finding a perfect fit immediately but about growing and developing in a role that honors God and benefits others. This episode is a goldmine for young adults and parents alike, offering biblically-rooted strategies to prepare for and thrive in the workforce. Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Vocation: Vocation is about God's calling in our lives, encompassing various aspects such as career, family, and church.
• Gender and Vocation: Gender should influence how we approach and understand our vocations, adhering to biblical roles and responsibilities.
• Preparing for the Workforce: Wisdom, character, and skills are essential components to develop in preparation for entering a vocation.
• Handling Job Dissatisfaction: It's normal to find work challenging; distinguish between temporary discomfort and a truly harmful job environment.
• Balancing Rest and Work: Regular rest, including Sabbath observance, is crucial for a balanced and productive life.

Notable Quotes:

1. "First of all, if we're very honest, especially when we're just starting out in our career or our education, we're not even qualified for that perfect vocation, whatever that might mean. We're still learning." - William Boekestein
2. "The way that we should order our vocations is, first of all, seeing our chief calling as that of a Christian." - William Boekestein
3. "I would say that the whole modern setup, I mean, since the industrial revolution, potentially threatens family more than it did in the past." - William Boekestein
4. "So you have to, in our younger years especially, but really, all throughout our lives, you need to be gaining something to offer." - William Boekestein
5. "Yes, you should take a vacation. And that's, I think you go back to the fourth commandment…the principle still of an appropriate balance between diligent work and rest." - William Boekestein

Resources:

• William Boekestein’s Book: "Finding My Vocation: A Guide to Young People Seeking a Calling"
• Nancy Pearcey: Author referenced for insights on work and family dynamics
• Mary Beakey: Author of "Teach Them to Work," a book for younger children
• First Corinthians Chapter 7: Biblical reference discussing calling

Dive deeper into the wisdom shared in this episode and discover how the principles of vocation can shape a fulfilling and God-honoring life. Don’t miss out on more enlightening content from RenewalCast—stay tuned!

About the Guest(s): Ian Hamilton

Ian Hamilton is a scholar and minister with deep roots in the Presbyterian tradition. Raised in Glasgow, Scotland, Ian discovered his faith in his late teens and subsequently studied theology at Edinburgh University. His ministerial career spans over 35 years, with 20 years in the Church of Scotland and 17 years ministering at Cambridge Presbyterian Church in England. Ian has also taught historical theology and Puritan spirituality at Edinburgh Theological Seminary. Currently, he serves as the President of Westminster Seminary UK. Ian is married to Joan, and together they have four children and six grandchildren. Episode Summary: In this compelling episode of Renewalcast, hosts Colt and Jay welcome Ian Hamilton, a prominent figure in Presbyterian circles, to discuss the historical and contemporary trajectory of the Church of Scotland. Ian provides a detailed overview of his extensive career and his unique perspective on the theological and cultural shifts within the Church of Scotland over the years. This background sets the stage for a rich and insightful dialogue about the church's fluctuating commitment to the gospel truth. Throughout the conversation, Ian delves into the critical issues that have led to the Church of Scotland's current state, particularly the unsettling shift towards cultural relevancy at the expense of biblical orthodoxy. He reflects on the early challenges the church faced, from royal interferences to enlightenment rationalism, and how these have sown seeds of unbelief that continue to grow. The discussion also covers the struggles and consequences of maintaining doctrinal purity amidst changing times, with specific mentions of women's ordination and LGBTQ+ issues, and the impact of these decisions on the church’s integrity and membership. Key Takeaways:

• Historical Context: The Church of Scotland's origin during the Reformation and its initial evangelical and confessional stance.
• Cultural Relevance vs. Biblical Faithfulness: The modern church's struggle to balance the desire for cultural relevance with maintaining biblical orthodoxy.
• Internal Conflicts: The impact of moderatism and liberal theology on church unity and doctrinal integrity.
• Personal Reflections: Ian Hamilton's experiences and contemplations on facing ecclesiastical decisions and the importance of heart religion.
• Leadership in Crisis: Strategies for spiritual leaders to address theological and moral compromises within the church.

Notable Quotes:

1. "The church's first calling is to be faithful to the Lord, faithful to His word, which is transgenerationally true."
2. "Often heresies begin with a good concern; people want to be relevant."
3. "The history of the church is that people were fed to the lions rather than deny Christ."
4. "Everything to me ultimately comes back to the doctrine of God."
5. "Our problem today is that we have distanced ourselves from who God really is."

Resources:

• Edinburgh Theological Seminary: Website
• Westminster Seminary UK: Website
• The Marrow of Modern Divinity by Edward Fisher: Amazon
• Memoirs of Thomas Boston: Amazon
• “The Essential Church” Documentary

Stay tuned to Renewalcast for more enlightening conversations and theological insights. Make sure to listen to the full episode to dive deeper into the valuable discussion about the Church of Scotland's history and challenges.

About the Guest(s): Justin DeBerry is a pastor at West Center Baptist Church in Madison, South Dakota, where he has been serving for nearly nine years. Justin and his wife, Carrie, have four daughters. He is deeply involved in ministry and has taught extensively on parenting within his church. Justin brings a wealth of practical experience and biblical wisdom to conversations about parenting and familial relationships. Episode Summary: In this episode of RenewalCast, host Coalt is joined by Pastor Justin DeBerry to delve into the intricate world of parenting from a biblical perspective. Justin shares practical advice, personal anecdotes, and deep insights into how parents can navigate the challenging yet rewarding task of raising children. The conversation is filled with valuable information on topics ranging from bedtime routines to the importance of balancing law and gospel in the home. The discussion kicks off with Justin outlining his approach to creating a structured bedtime routine that fosters meaningful conversations with children. He emphasizes the importance of discipline over punishment and explains how this approach aligns with biblical principles. The conversation transitions into broader parenting philosophies, including the significance of viewing children as individuals and the need for a balanced approach that encompasses both authority and grace. Justin touches on critical issues like the impact of screen time and the responsibilities of addressing sensitive topics such as sexuality. Key Takeaways:

• Structure and Routine: Creating a consistent bedtime routine with a wind-down period can facilitate meaningful conversations with children.
• Discipline Over Punishment: Emphasizing discipline as an act of love rather than mere punishment can have a profound impact on a child's understanding of authority and obedience.
• Balancing Authority and Grace: A balanced approach that includes both law (authority) and gospel (grace) is crucial in parenting.
• Screen Time Management: Limiting screen time and encouraging play-based activities can significantly benefit children’s development.
• Proactive Conversations: Engaging in early, honest conversations about sensitive topics like sexuality can help children develop a healthy, biblical worldview.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Because they're sinners and you're a sinner. Let's all get in the same room for, I don't know, at the end of the day, when we're all tired, I suppose it's a recipe for disaster." - Justin DeBerry
2. "One of the greatest gifts you can give your kids is a play-centered childhood, rather than a phone-centered childhood." - Justin DeBerry
3. "Prayer works." - Justin DeBerry
4. "As I'm parenting my kids, God is parenting me." - Justin DeBerry
5. "Our words and our actions are connected to the heart. And out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." - Justin DeBerry

Resources:

• Justin DeBerry’s Church: West Center Baptist Church
• Shepherding a Child’s Heart by Ted Tripp
• Parenting by Paul Tripp
• Before I Was Born by Carolyn Nystrom
• New City Catechism
• Theology by Marty Makowski

Explore these resources further to gain a deeper understanding and practical tools for effective parenting. Tune in to the full episode for an enriching discussion and to gain insights that you can apply in your daily parenting journey. Stay connected for more enlightening content from RenewalCast!

About the Guest(s): DJ McLean is an elder at Cambridge Presbyterian Church in Cambridge, England. He has a PhD in 17th-century reformed theology, focusing on Scottish theology. In addition to his role as an elder, he serves as a trustee for the Banner of Truth and Tyndale House, edits the theological journal "Foundations" for Affinity, and has a deep interest in fly fishing. McLean's work has greatly influenced theological studies around the law, gospel, assurance, and the free offer of the gospel, particularly through his engagement with the marrow controversy. Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of Renewal Cast, hosts Coalt and Jay delve into the historic marrow controversy with DJ McLean, a seasoned theologian and elder from Cambridge Presbyterian Church. McLean brings a wealth of knowledge from his studies in 17th-century reformed theology, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of pivotal theological debates that have shaped Christian doctrines, especially those surrounding the law, gospel, and assurance of faith. McLean's insightful discussion begins by tracing the origins of the marrow controversy back to its roots in 17th-century England and its resurgence in 18th-century Scotland. He unpacks how the debates from Edward Fisher's "The Marrow of Modern Divinity" challenged the prevailing legalistic views of repentance and faith, advocating for the free offer of the gospel and the essential role of assurance in Christian life. The conversation also covers key theological concepts including federal theology, the order of salvation, and the difference between legal and evangelical obedience, emphasizing how these doctrines provide profound pastoral benefits and fostering a life of joy and freedom in Christ. Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the Marrow Controversy: The controversy focused on how one begins and continues the Christian life, stressing that salvation comes through Christ alone without preconditions.
• Free Offer of the Gospel: Christ is freely offered to all sinners, aligning with reformed theology's compatibility with particular redemption.
• Order of Salvation: Faith must precede repentance for true evangelical conversion, highlighting that repentance flows from a heart redeemed by Christ.
• Evangelical Obedience: True obedience to God's commandments stems from the redemption in Christ rather than legalistic observance.
• Pastoral Applications: The doctrines discussed enrich pastoral work by providing a framework for a joyful and free Christian life, rooted in the assurance of faith.

Notable Quotes:

1. "We don't bring anything to earn the right to trust in Christ…you just are called to come to Christ as you are." – DJ McLean
2. “Faith must precede repentance, as evangelical repentance can only flow from a heart that's been redeemed.” – DJ McLean
3. "The free offer of the gospel means that Christ is held out as the savior of sinners and everyone is invited to come to him without money and without price." – DJ McLean
4. “We live the Christian life from joy, from faith, from assurance, from that freeness of access that we have to God as our father.” – DJ McLean
5. "Evangelical obedience flows from the redemption that is ours in Christ." – DJ McLean

Resources:

• Cambridge Presbyterian Church: Website
• Banner of Truth: Website
• Tyndale House: Website
• Foundations Journal by Affinity: Website
• The Whole Christ by Sinclair Ferguson: Link
• The Marrow of Modern Divinity by Edward Fisher: Link

Listen to the full episode for an in-depth exploration of how these historical theological debates remain deeply relevant to modern Christian life and pastoral ministry. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on Renewal Cast!

About the Guest(s): Steve Meister is the pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Sacramento, California. Serving there for nearly a decade, Steve ministers in the heart of urban California, close to the state's political center. With a long-standing commitment to Christian orthodoxy, Steve has been an advocate for confessionalism, particularly the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession. Additionally, he serves on the board of Bible Translation Fellowship, an organization dedicated to promoting fidelity in Bible translation. Steve holds a seminary degree from The Masters Seminary in Los Angeles and has been a pivotal figure in his community for maintaining and advocating classical theological perspectives. Episode Summary: In this notable episode of Renewal Cast, hosts Coalt Robinson and Jay interview Pastor Steve Meister, diving into profound discussions on 1689 confessionalism and its relevance in today's theological landscape. Coalt and Jay aim to shed light on how historical confessions can effectively shape contemporary Christian thought and practice. Steve Meister, a passionate advocate for the Second London Baptist Confession, shares his compelling journey from a seeker-driven evangelical background through the emerging church movement, ultimately finding a home in confessional Reformed Baptist theology. Bringing forth critical insights, Steve elaborates on how historical context, doctrinal continuity, and biblical hermeneutics unite in the 1689 confession, emphasizing the enduring validity and applicability of these age-old truths. During the conversation, the dialogue also explores current debates in the doctrine of God, particularly addressing issues such as divine simplicity, immutability, and the Trinity. Steve points out how modern readings have diverged from historical understandings, highlighting the need for churches to employ confessional standards as a means of maintaining doctrinal integrity and fostering liberty for proper theological discourse. His reflections illustrate the importance of honoring past theological frameworks while engaging constructively with present-day theological controversies. Key Takeaways:

• Historical confessions like the 1689 Second London Baptist Confession hold significant value for guiding contemporary church doctrine and practice.
• Modern misunderstandings and debates over theological doctrines often arise from a lack of continuity with historical interpretations.
• The confessional standards provide a stable framework for evaluating and maintaining doctrinal purity within church ministries.
• The doctrine of God, including attributes such as divine simplicity and immutability, remains crucial yet underemphasized in modern evangelical teaching.
• Using historical confessions can liberate churches from subjective, individualistic interpretations and ensure a more collective adherence to biblical truths.

Notable Quotes:

1. "It is really understanding the impact that the Enlightenment and shifts in theological education have had on our approach to scripture."
2. "Many folks who are doggedly insistent about the historical context of scripture do not approach the confession with the same respect."
3. "The confession functions as a standard by which the public teaching and ministry of a church is measured."
4. "The idea that the people of God don't want to know about God is hogwash. God's people want to know about God."
5. "Having a disposition of trust towards our brothers in the past does not mean everything they said is right, but we benefit greatly from their collective wisdom."

Resources:

• Steve Meister's Church: Emmanuel Baptist Church, Sacramento, CA
• Bible Translation Fellowship: Bible Translation Fellowship
• J.V. Fesko's Book: "The Need for Creeds Today: Confessing Our Faith from the Scriptures" by J.V. Fesko

Tune in to this enlightening episode of Renewal Cast to deepen your understanding of the 1689 confessionalism and its crucial role in contemporary Christian faith and practice. Stay connected with us for more illuminating discussions and theological insights.

REWIND time -- this is such a good episode that we need to release it again....and I am sure again and again. 

Check out renewalcast.com -- there is a store 
If you are in the market for a reformed hat, check it out. 

About the Guest(s): Mike Abendroth is a renowned theologian, pastor, and author, widely recognized for his contributions to the discussions on Reformed Theology and the doctrines of grace. With notable works addressing key theological debates, Abendroth has established himself as a thought leader in biblical and doctrinal studies. He is currently serving as a pastor and is known for his insightful and challenging perspectives on issues like Arminianism and lordship salvation. Episode Summary: Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Renewal Cast! In today's bonus episode, hosts Coalt and Jay delve into a fascinating conversation with Mike Abendroth, focusing on his critical views regarding Arminianism and lordship salvation. This episode promises to enrich your understanding as Abendroth meticulously deconstructs these theological standpoints, clarifying common misconceptions and offering profound insights into how they align with or diverge from Reformed theology. In this session, Abendroth addresses the core of lordship salvation, providing a balanced perspective on its implications. By distinguishing between outward-focused fiduciary faith and inward-directed volitional faith, he articulates why lordship salvation often leans towards Arminianism despite its proponents being predominantly Calvinists. This discussion is vital for grasping the intricacies of salvation theology and the nuanced differences that can significantly impact doctrinal teachings and personal belief systems. Key Takeaways:

• Fiduciary vs. Volitional Faith: Abendroth emphasizes the critical difference between fiduciary faith (trusting in Christ alone) and volitional faith (submission, surrender).
• Historical Context: He references the Marrow Controversy to highlight the historical debate on whether one must stop sinning prior to coming to Christ.
• Arminianism Concerns: The guest points out that while many lordship salvation proponents are Calvinists, their calls to submit and surrender resemble Arminian teachings.
• Sola Fide: The reformer's principle of faith alone (sola fide) is underscored as essential, with no preconditions for sinners to come to Christ.
• Sanctification and Justification: The distinction between these two categories is crucial, where surrender and submission are relevant to sanctification rather than justification.

Notable Quotes:

1. "When we preach to people, we are telling them about who Jesus is… now we ask them… believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved."
2. "Surrender, submission, yielding is something on me. So if I have to surrender my life in order to come to Christ, it better be perfect surrender."
3. "A little faith in the right Jesus saves. Perfect surrender in the right Jesus would have to save. But that’s impossible."
4. "It was the Arminians that had the response to the call of the work of Christ in a volitional category. What it had to do with my will. Surrender, submit."
5. "Sola fide is there for a reason. And that’s why I would say their calls are Arminian very often."

Resources:

• Renewal Cast Website: renewalcast.com
• J.I. Packer's Book on Puritans: "Quest for Godliness" (Recommended reading for further understanding the fiduciary and volitional aspects in response to the Gospel)
• Facebook Page: Renewal Cast on Facebook

Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on Renewal Cast, where each episode seeks to deepen your understanding and clarity on biblical and theological subjects. Don’t miss out on this chance to enrich your faith and knowledge! Listen to the full episode and explore past conversations on our website or social media page.