What IS true Christian apologetics according to the Bible? Pastor Cliff McManis joins The Shepherd's Study to challenge popular approaches that rely on philosophy, natural theology, and arguments like the cosmological or ontological proofs (think William Lane Craig, RC Sproul, Norman Geisler). Instead, he calls for redeeming apologetics by returning to Scripture-centered defense: using the Bible to defend the gospel and hope in Christ — just as Jesus and the apostles did.

This powerful discussion covers:

• Why most seminary apologetics classes leave pastors disappointed
• The problem with "natural theology" and philosophical mastery requirements
• 1 Peter 3:15 in context: exalt Christ, share your hope!
• How epistemology, Romans 1, and satanic blindness change everything
• Practical tips: focus on Jesus/gospel, avoid winning arguments, be gentle
• Why every Christian (yes, even grandma!) is qualified to defend the faith

Cliff's book: Redeeming Apologetics: Restoring Biblical Supremacy in Defending the Christian FaithGet it here → https://www.amazon.com/Redeeming-Apologetics-Restoring-Supremacy-Defending/dp/1952221153

0:00 – Intro & Cliff's background3:45 – Defining apologetics biblically vs. philosophically12:20 – Critiquing quotes from Ram, Groothuis, Pearcey, Craig25:10 – Jesus & apostles used special revelation, not natural theology38:50 – 1 Peter 3:15 unpacked: hope in Christ, not theism48:00 – Epistemology, Romans 1, & satanic blindness1:05:00 – Practical mistakes Christians make & how to fix them1:15:30 – Recommended resources & final plea: proclaim the gospel!

In this powerful episode of the Shepherd’s Study, Dr. Joel Beeke (chancellor of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary and author of over 100 books) shares why family worship is the single most important thing a parent will ever do for their children — and why it has become a forgotten discipline in our generation.

Drawing from his own upbringing, decades of pastoral ministry, worldwide teaching, and even a life-threatening encounter with the mafia, Dr. Beeke passionately explains the biblical mandate and historic practice of daily family worship (prayer, Scripture reading, instruction, and singing). He gives clear, practical steps for families to begin — whether you have toddlers or teenagers — and shares how the Family Worship Bible Guide and new children’s series have helped tens of thousands of families finally succeed at this vital practice.

You’ll hear moving stories (including John Paton and the cannibals) that show how consistent family worship has shaped generations of faithful believers. If you’ve ever felt intimidated, too busy, or unsure how to lead your family spiritually, this episode will both convict and equip you to start tonight.

“This may be the most important thing you’ll ever do for your children.” – Dr. Joel Beeke

Perfect for parents, pastors, and anyone who longs to see the next generation love and fear the Lord.

Purchase his book here: https://heritagebooks.org/products/family-worship-beeke.html?srsltid=AfmBOopBEr0-VoDNyhRBcExOyqN66JI8bjsguPuvDt6MVMMjyVFlMllu

In this compelling episode of The Shepherd's Study, host Peter Goeman sits down with Rosaria Butterfield, a former tenured professor, lesbian activist, and now pastor’s wife, homeschool mom, and author. Rosaria shares her powerful testimony of transformation and dives into the cultural shifts that have led to today’s anti-Christian age. Rosaria unpacks the spiritual and societal challenges facing Christians today in response to LGBTQ ideology. With bold insights and practical wisdom, she calls believers to stand firm in biblical truth, reject cultural lies, and engage their communities with gospel-centered hospitality. Whether you're a parent, pastor, or young Christian, this episode offers encouragement to live courageously for Christ in a world at war with truth.All of Rosaria's books can be purchased from Amazon and other book sellers.DONATE TO THE SHEPHERD'S STUDY PODCAST►https://shepherds.edu/giving

Join host Peter Goeman on The Shepherd's Study, the podcast of Shepherds Theological Seminary, for an insightful conversation with Stephen Davey, president of STS and pastor of The Shepherds Church in Cary, North Carolina. In this episode, Stephen shares his journey as a missionary kid, church planter, and long-time pastor, reflecting on 39 years of ministry. From the challenges of planting a church with no prior pastoral experience to navigating power struggles and personal attacks, Stephen offers candid insights into the trials and temptations faced in pastoral ministry. He discusses the importance of guarding the church’s doctrine, the value of expository preaching, and how his perspective on ministry has evolved over the decades. With humor and wisdom, Stephen also previews the upcoming Shepherds 360 conference, emphasizing perseverance in ministry. This episode is a must-listen for pastors, seminary students, and anyone seeking to endure faithfully in ministry.Register for the Shepherds360 conference: https://www.shepherds360.org/

DONATE TO THE SHEPHERD'S STUDY PODCAST►https://shepherds.edu/giving

In this episode of The Shepherd’s Study, host Tim Miller sits down with Danny Gardner, pastor of Highland Baptist Church in Westminster, Colorado, and a DMin graduate of Shepherd’s Theological Seminary. Danny shares his personal journey through a challenging pastoral transition, offering valuable lessons from his experience and research for his upcoming book on the topic. From the importance of humility and patience to the pitfalls of identity crises and financial unpreparedness, Danny provides practical wisdom for both outgoing and incoming pastors. Drawing from biblical examples and his own story, he explores how to prepare a church for leadership transitions while keeping Christ at the center. Join us for an insightful conversation on fostering healthy, God-honoring pastoral successions.

In this episode of the Shepherd's Study Podcast, host Tim Miller sits down with Dr. Chuck Lawless, senior professor of evangelism and missions, dean of doctoral studies, and vice president of spiritual formation at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. They dive into the critical topic of spiritual warfare, exploring its biblical foundations, practical implications, and the importance of equipping believers to stand firm in God’s armor. Dr. Lawless shares his personal journey into studying spiritual warfare, offers insights on the balance between acknowledging the enemy and focusing on God’s sovereignty, and emphasizes the role of discipleship in preparing Christians for the battle. From Genesis to Revelation, they trace the storyline of spiritual warfare and discuss how the church can effectively engage in this ongoing conflict through preaching the gospel and living in obedience to Christ.Books by Dr. Chuck Lawless on Spiritual Warfare:Spiritual Warfare in the Storyline of Scripture: A Biblical, Theological, and Practical Approach (co-authored with Dr. William F. Cook III)Spiritual Warfare: Biblical Truth for Victory (co-authored with Dr. William F. Cook III)

In this engaging episode of the Shepherd's Study Podcast, host Tim Miller sits down with Dr. Scott Pace (@ScottPace), Provost, Dean of Graduate Studies, and Professor of Preaching and Pastoral Ministry at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (@SEBTS), to discuss his book, Answering God's Call, published by B&H Publishing (@BHpub). Dr. Pace shares insights from his journey in discerning God's will, offering practical wisdom for navigating life’s big decisions—whether choosing a career path or seeking God’s purpose in everyday choices. Drawing from his book, they explore the difference between God’s general and specific call, common misconceptions about His will, and the role of Scripture, community, and faith in decision-making. With personal stories and biblical insights, this episode equips listeners to pursue God’s plan with confidence and grace.Get the book here: https://a.co/d/gjwrgjU

In this episode of The Shepherd's Study, host Dr. Tim Miller welcomes back pastor Grant Castleberry to discuss his new book, The Honor of God (Ligonier Ministries). Exploring the biblical theme of God’s weightiness—or kavod—Castleberry unpacks how God’s holiness demands our reverence and shapes every aspect of life. They delve into what it means to live for God’s honor, the consequences of shame when we fail, and the transformative power of Christ’s atonement. The conversation also addresses practical ways pastors can write while in ministry and how churches can cultivate worship that reflects God’s transcendence. Join us for an inspiring discussion that calls believers to live with purpose, grounded in the glory of God.

Join host Tim Miller and Dr. Michael Vlach, theologian at Shepherd's Theological Seminary, as they explore a biblical theology of nations. From Genesis to Revelation, they discuss the significance of nations in God’s plan, starting with the creation mandate to fill the earth, the Tower of Babel, and the table of nations in Genesis 10-11. Dr. Vlach unpacks Israel’s unique role as a nation to bless all peoples, the interplay of unity and diversity in God’s design, and the future of nations in the millennial kingdom and eternal state. Discover how God’s redemptive work encompasses not just individuals but nations, cultures, and creation itself, culminating in Christ’s reign over all.

In this episode of The Shepherd's Study, host Tim Miller sits down with Drew Dabbs, Discipleship Ministry Strategist for NC Baptists, to explore how local churches can effectively make disciples. Drew shares his journey from Mississippi to North Carolina, detailing how his 20-year experience in local church ministry shaped his passion for disciple-making. He discusses the role of a strategist in supporting over 3,300 NC Baptist churches, addressing common challenges like leadership development, and offering practical insights for fostering vibrant discipleship. From one-on-one mentoring to community-focused strategies, Drew emphasizes the local church as the heart of God’s plan for discipleship. Tune in to discover how churches can catalyze disciple-making that transforms lives and communities.