The determinetruth Podcast

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie take a hard look at how society treats the poor—and how our assumptions often do more harm than good. Too often, people are told their poverty is the result of bad choices, while at the same time, billions of dollars are poured into corporate bailouts with little public outcry. We challenge this hypocrisy and explore how practical, compassionate assistance—rather than blame—can help individuals and families break cycles of poverty. We also highlight the critical role of equal and competent education as one of the most powerful tools for long-term change. This conversation invites us to reevaluate our priorities and consider what true justice and genuine love for our neighbors truly require.

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie initiate a discussion on Jesus, poverty, and the poor. In light of the use of 1st and 2nd Thessalonians to justify neglecting the poor, they begin the discussion by examining the causes of poverty, particularly in relation to the role of education. The goal of this conversation is not to form a political opinion on what the government should do as much as it is to discern the role of the Church in this conversation. 

Here is a link to the book Vinnie (and Rob) recommended: The Color of Law, by, Richard Rothstein

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie discuss the Roman background for Paul's exhortations that "If a man will not work, he shall not eat" (2 Thess 3:10). Rob explains that Paul is addressing some in the Church of Thessalonica who were attaching themselves to Patron--wealth elites in the city--in order that they didn't have to do manual labor. These Patrons provided for the Clients' well-being, but it came with strings. For Paul, the strings, which included supporting the Patron's social and political actions, as well as their religious convictions, undermined their confession of Jesus as Lord. 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie get off to a rough start (two ADD guys), but rebound to discuss Paul's encouragement to the Thessalonians in light of their suffering. Then they address suffering and persecution in the life of the believer. As well as global persecution and the lack of it in much of Western Christianity. Why don't we suffer? Or, do we? 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie give an introduction to Paul's letters to the church in Thessalonica. These letters were written around 50 CE and address the relationship between the Christians and the wealthy elite in Thessalonica, the persecution of the Church in Thessalonica, and the end times. 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie are joined by Gary Burge who has recently completed his commentary on the book of Colossians. Gary explains why he believes "fear" is one of the significant issues behind the book of Colossians. 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob (note the new mic and improved sound quality for Rob) and Vinnie address Paul's appeal in Colossians 3-4 to the church in Colosse to live in accordance with their new life in the kingdom! Paul begins by saying, "Therefore, if you have been raised with Christ . . ." (and they have), then live this way! Colossians 3 is critical to understand for the life of God's people today. 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie dive into Colossians 1–2, exploring the heart of the problem Paul was addressing in Colossae. They discuss the meaning of baptism and the question of infant baptism, and reflect on what to do when we realize our beliefs may not align with Jesus and the Kingdom. They also wrestle with how to engage fellow Christians who advocate for war and violence—views that seem to stand in contrast to the way of the cross.

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie examine Colossians 1:15-20. They examine how this beautiful poem is constructed to help us understand its meaning. What is the New Creation, and how is Christ the Firstborn over it? 

And you gotta see what Vinnie is wearing. Okay, we know you can "see" but you'll still find out! 

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

THIS EPISODE

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie kick off their journey through Paul’s letter to the church in Colossae. They explore the striking similarities between Colossians and Ephesians and discuss the possible reasons behind this overlap. Together, they ask, “Where exactly was Colossae?” and “Why does its location matter for interpreting this letter?”

The episode also delves into the so-called “Colossian heresy”—a mysterious blend of religious influences that Paul confronts head-on. What was it? Why did it matter then? And what does it mean for us now?

Colossians is a short but theologically rich letter that lifts up the cosmic supremacy of Christ and challenges believers to live lives shaped by that reality. Understanding this letter isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s a call to reimagine what it means to be the church in a world full of competing powers.

FOLLOW THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES

SUPPORT DETERMINETRUTH MINISTRIES