What are angels? How are they different from God, and how are they different from humans? How should we think about angels and demons, and how do they impact our lives? James and Jonathan discuss this fascinating and oft-misunderstood topic today in anticipation of the Gap Bible Series seminar at which James will be speaking in October, where he will cover this subject in greater depth. 

We are pleased to announce the winners of a copy of C.S. Lewis’ book, The Screwtape Letters. Congratulations to Talib M. from Cleveland, GA and Ed S. from Hudson, MA!

Show Notes

To register for the Gap Bible Series seminar in Lancaster, PA, click here: https://www.alliancenet.org/gapcenter

Gary Schnittjer is back on the podcast to discuss his most recent book, Old Testament Narrative Books: The Israel Story, a survey of the histories of the Hebrew kingdoms. Gary's book expertly ties these Old Testament narratives to the overarching theme of redemption throughout the Bible. Tune in to hear James and Jonathan chat with their old friend and newly-crowned honorary co-host of Theology on the Go. 

Congratulations to Barb P. from Langhorne, PA and Bobby F. from North Richland Hills, TX, each of whom won a copy of Gary Schnittjer’s book, courtesy of B&H Academic.

James and Jonathan sit down with William Varner to discuss his new book about the Apostolic Fathers— Christian writers of the 1st and 2nd centuries who knew or were associated with the New Testament apostles. William argues that there is great value in studying and understanding the writings of Clement, Ignatius, Polycarp, and others. Tune in and find out why. 

Register here for the opportunity to win a copy of William Varner’s book, courtesy of our friends at T&T Clark Publishing.

Mack Tomlinson sits down with James and Jonathan to discuss his latest book, The Indomitable Brainerds: The Gospel Legacy of David and John Brainerd’s Mission to the Indians. David Brainerd’s missionary efforts among the Native Americans of colonial North America are legendary, but how many people know that David’s brother John devoted decades of his life to continue this mission? Mack Tomlinson tells the inspiring story of the Brainerd brothers’ unconquerable faith in God and how their relentless mission work accomplished more for Native Americans than any other individual or organization at that time. 

Congratulations to Tony W. from Anderson, SC and Timothy G. from St. Clair Shores, MI, the winners of our book giveaway, and thank you Reformation Heritage Books for generously providing them! 

Christopher Wright joins Jonathan and James to discuss his latest book, An Island of Grace: Redeeming Love in the Book of Ruth. This well-loved book of the Bible exemplifies kindness and everyday grace as the residents of the town of Bethlehem care for one another. But it is much more. It is also a picture of the redeeming work of Jesus Christ for all of His people. Christopher explains that drinking deeply from Ruth will be a balm for your soul in this present age.

Thank you Crown & Covenant for providing a couple copies of Christopher Wright’s book for our listeners. The winners are Daniel F. from Fairfax, VA and Joanna S. from Rockaway, NJ. Congratulations!

Decision Making and the Will of God

How can we know God’s will for our lives and make responsible decisions? Why does decision-making and discerning the will of God seem so difficult? Jonathan and James tackle a topic that impacts every one of us, whether we’re making big, life-changing decisions or the seemingly less significant choices we face daily. 

Banner of Truth provided a few copies of the classic work by John Flavel, The Mystery of Providence, and the winners of the giveaway are Kevin R. from Clayton, NC, June M. from Meadville, PA, and Libby S. from St. Charles, MO. Congratulations!

Today, Jonathan and James sit down with Bruce McClellan to discuss his latest book about Samuel Rutherford of Anwoth. Rutherford was an accomplished man—a university scholar, defender of the Reformed faith, and prolific author. But Bruce shares that Rutherford’s first love was preaching the gospel and shepherding the Lord’s people.

Courtesy of Reformation Heritage Books, we gave away three copies of Bruce's book. The winners were Len A. from Hoschton, GA, Jai Paul G. from Taylors, SC, and Nicole I. from Harper Woods, MI. Congratulations!

Most people are familiar with the well-known hymns “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross” and “Joy to the World” by Isaac Watts. But Britt Stokes joins Jonathan and James on the podcast to share how Watts was more than just an accomplished hymn writer―he was a dedicated pastor-scholar pursuing sincere Christian devotion among the people of God.

Reformation Heritage Books graciously provided us with a few copies for a giveaway. Congratulations to our winners, Philip N. from Jacksonville, FL, Julian S. from Gainesville, TX, and George Y. from Castle Rock, CO!

Show Notes

Britt recommends these books by Isaac Watts:

A Guide to Prayer

Discourses on the Love of God

The World to Come

To the Judicious and Impartial Reader

James Renihan is back on the podcast to discuss his latest book with James and Jonathan, To the Judicious and Impartial Reader, an exposition of what is popularly known as the 1689 Baptist Confession of Faith. Dr. Renihan shines welcomed light on this important confession of faith that churches around the world have used for almost 350 years and still encourages and guides believers today.

Thanks to Founders Press for providing three giveaway copies of Dr. Renihan’s book for our listeners. Congratulations to our winners -- Mona J. from Butler, KY, Aiden M. from Temple, TX, and Michael A. from Covington, KY!