This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of  God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 12. What special act of providence did God exercise toward man in the estate wherein he was created? A. When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon pain of death.

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at <a href="http://reformedforum.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reformedforum.org</a>. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of <a href="http://www.southaustinpres.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">South Austin Presbyterian Church</a>. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of <a href="https://reformedforum.org/product/gods-time-for-us-barths-reconciliation-of-eternity-and-time-in-jesus-christ/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ</a> (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit <a href="https://reformedforum.org/donate" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://reformedforum.org/donate</a> to provide your support. Q. 12. What special act of providence did God exercise toward man in the estate wherein he was created? A. When God had created man, he entered into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of perfect obedience; forbidding him to eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, upon pain of death.

[Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism] Q/A 12

We welcome Chris Castaldo to the program to explore the Beatitudes. In his book,  The Upside-Down Kingdom, Castaldo offers a fresh perspective on these familiar teachings of Jesus, showing how they reveal God’s heart for the poor, the meek, and the persecuted. He also provides practical guidance for how we can live out these values in our daily lives, both as individuals and as a community of believers. The book is recommended for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the gospel and its implications for our lives today. Castaldo argues that the Beatitudes challenge our cultural assumptions about power, success, and happiness, and call us to embrace a different way of living that is grounded in humility, compassion, and justice. Castaldo also draws on his own experiences as a pastor and theologian to provide practical guidance for how we can live out these values in our daily lives. Overall,  The Upside Down Kingdom offers a fresh perspective on the Beatitudes that is both challenging and inspiring. Chris Castaldo (PhD, London School of Theology) is the lead pastor at New Covenant Church in Naperville, Illinois. Follow him on Twitter at @chriscastaldo. Books by Chris Castaldo   The Upside Down Kingdom: Wisdom for Life from the Beatitudes  Talking with Catholics about the Gospel: A Guide for Evangelicals  The Unfinished Reformation: What Unites and Divides Catholics and Protestants After 500 Years  Journeys of Faith: Evangelicalism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism and Anglicanism  Holy Ground: Walking with Jesus as a Former Catholic  Justified in Christ: The Doctrines of Peter Martyr Vermigli and John Henry Newman and Their Ecumenical Implications 

We welcome Chris Castaldo to the program to explore the Beatitudes. In his book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Upside-Down-Kingdom-Wisdom-Beatitudes/dp/143357317X?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Upside-Down Kingdom</a>, Castaldo offers a fresh perspective on these familiar teachings of Jesus, showing how they reveal God’s heart for the poor, the meek, and the persecuted. He also provides practical guidance for how we can live out these values in our daily lives, both as individuals and as a community of believers. The book is recommended for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the gospel and its implications for our lives today. Castaldo argues that the Beatitudes challenge our cultural assumptions about power, success, and happiness, and call us to embrace a different way of living that is grounded in humility, compassion, and justice. Castaldo also draws on his own experiences as a pastor and theologian to provide practical guidance for how we can live out these values in our daily lives. Overall, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Upside-Down-Kingdom-Wisdom-Beatitudes/dp/143357317X?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Upside Down Kingdom</a> offers a fresh perspective on the Beatitudes that is both challenging and inspiring. Chris Castaldo (PhD, London School of Theology) is the lead pastor at New Covenant Church in Naperville, Illinois. Follow him on Twitter at <a href="https://www.twitter.com/chriscastaldo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@chriscastaldo</a>. Books by Chris Castaldo <ul> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Upside-Down-Kingdom-Wisdom-Beatitudes/dp/143357317X?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Upside Down Kingdom: Wisdom for Life from the Beatitudes</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Talking-Catholics-about-Gospel-Evangelicals/dp/031051817X?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Talking with Catholics about the Gospel: A Guide for Evangelicals</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Unfinished-Reformation-Unites-Divides-Protestants/dp/031052643X?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Unfinished Reformation: What Unites and Divides Catholics and Protestants After 500 Years</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Journeys-Faith-Evangelicalism-Orthodoxy-Catholicism/dp/031033120X?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Journeys of Faith: Evangelicalism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism and Anglicanism</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Ground-Walking-Jesus-Catholic/dp/0310322471?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Holy Ground: Walking with Jesus as a Former Catholic</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Justified-Christ-Doctrines-Ecumenical-Implications/dp/1842276012?tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Justified in Christ: The Doctrines of Peter Martyr Vermigli and John Henry Newman and Their Ecumenical Implications</a></li> </ul>

The Upside-Down Kingdom

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of  God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 11. What are God’s works of providence? A. God’s works of providence are his most holy, wise and powerful preserving and governing all his creatures, and all their actions.

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at <a href="http://reformedforum.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reformedforum.org</a>. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of <a href="http://www.southaustinpres.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">South Austin Presbyterian Church</a>. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of <a href="https://reformedforum.org/product/gods-time-for-us-barths-reconciliation-of-eternity-and-time-in-jesus-christ/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ</a> (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit <a href="https://reformedforum.org/donate" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://reformedforum.org/donate</a> to provide your support. Q. 11. What are God’s works of providence? A. God’s works of providence are his most holy, wise and powerful preserving and governing all his creatures, and all their actions.

[Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism] Q/A 11

We turn to pp. 315–318 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with John the Baptist. Our discussion examines the complexities of John's role in the grand scheme of Biblical theology, unearthing profound insights about revelation and prophecy. We explore John's unique connection with Elijah, and the significance of his testimony to Jesus and baptism. Join us as we ponder Vos's interpretation of Biblical revelation, shedding light on how it relates to the shadowy figure of John the Baptist. We navigate the delicate interplay between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, guided by the astute scholarship of Vos.

We turn to pp. 315–318 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with John the Baptist. Our discussion examines the complexities of John's role in the grand scheme of Biblical theology, unearthing profound insights about revelation and prophecy. We explore John's unique connection with Elijah, and the significance of his testimony to Jesus and baptism. Join us as we ponder Vos's interpretation of Biblical revelation, shedding light on how it relates to the shadowy figure of John the Baptist. We navigate the delicate interplay between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, guided by the astute scholarship of Vos.

Vos Group #82 — More on John the Baptist

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. In chapter 17, “The Atonement Through Christ,” we begin to discuss what the atonement means, the need for the atonement, and how s

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. In chapter 17, “The Atonement Through Christ,” we begin to discuss what the atonement means, the need for the atonement, and how s

Summary of Christian Doctrine: The Atonement Through Christ, Part 1

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of  God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 10. How did God create man? A. God created man male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness and holiness, with dominion over the creatures.

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at <a href="http://reformedforum.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reformedforum.org</a>. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of <a href="http://www.southaustinpres.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">South Austin Presbyterian Church</a>. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of <a href="https://reformedforum.org/product/gods-time-for-us-barths-reconciliation-of-eternity-and-time-in-jesus-christ/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ</a> (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit <a href="https://reformedforum.org/donate" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://reformedforum.org/donate</a> to provide your support. Q. 10. How did God create man? A. God created man male and female, after his own image, in knowledge, righteousness and holiness, with dominion over the creatures.

[Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism] Q/A 10

Explore the profound wisdom of 1 Peter in this episode of the Christ the Center podcast. Camden Bucey is joined by Ryan Noha, Reformed Forum’s Director of Education and Advancement, and Rev. Dr. Kevin Chiarot, pastor of Westminster PCA in Rock Tavern, New York. Together, they discuss the teachings of 1 Peter, unraveling its rich eschatological themes of exile, suffering, our heavenly inheritance, hope, and resurrection. Don’t miss this episode if you’re intrigued by the mysteries of 1 Peter, or if you’re simply looking for an enriching and thought-provoking conversation on Reformed theology.

Explore the profound wisdom of 1 Peter in this episode of the Christ the Center podcast. Camden Bucey is joined by Ryan Noha, Reformed Forum’s Director of Education and Advancement, and Rev. Dr. Kevin Chiarot, pastor of Westminster PCA in Rock Tavern, New York. Together, they discuss the teachings of 1 Peter, unraveling its rich eschatological themes of exile, suffering, our heavenly inheritance, hope, and resurrection. Don’t miss this episode if you’re intrigued by the mysteries of 1 Peter, or if you’re simply looking for an enriching and thought-provoking conversation on Reformed theology.

The Living Hope Revealed in 1 Peter

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of  God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 9. What is the work of creation? A. The work of creation is God’s making all things of nothing, by the word of his power, in the space of six days, and all very good.

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at <a href="http://reformedforum.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reformedforum.org</a>. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of <a href="http://www.southaustinpres.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">South Austin Presbyterian Church</a>. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of <a href="https://reformedforum.org/product/gods-time-for-us-barths-reconciliation-of-eternity-and-time-in-jesus-christ/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ</a> (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit <a href="https://reformedforum.org/donate" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://reformedforum.org/donate</a> to provide your support. Q. 9. What is the work of creation? A. The work of creation is God’s making all things of nothing, by the word of his power, in the space of six days, and all very good.

[Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism] Q/A 9

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey discuss two new courses from Reformed Academy as well as the new online community and several upcoming events. Camden, Jim Cassidy, and Lane Tipton will be attending a meetup in Dallas on August 1, 2023 while Camden and Carlton Wynne will be present for a meetup in Atlanta on August 11. Reformed Forum will also be hosting an online symposium on Reformed Moral Theology on August 24, 2023. Information is available at https://www.reformedforum.org/calendar. After discussing all these matters, we include Jim Cassidy's first lecture from a new course on Barth as well as a recording of a live Q&amp;A session with Jim on the lecture.

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey discuss two new courses from Reformed Academy as well as the new online community and several upcoming events. Camden, Jim Cassidy, and Lane Tipton will be attending a meetup in Dallas on August 1, 2023 while Camden and Carlton Wynne will be present for a meetup in Atlanta on August 11. Reformed Forum will also be hosting an online symposium on Reformed Moral Theology on August 24, 2023. Information is available at <a href="https://www.reformedforum.org/calendar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.reformedforum.org/calendar</a>. After discussing all these matters, we include Jim Cassidy's first lecture from a new course on Barth as well as a recording of a live Q&amp;A session with Jim on the lecture.

New Courses and Upcoming Events

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at reformedforum.org. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of South Austin Presbyterian Church. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of  God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit https://reformedforum.org/donate to provide your support. Q. 8. How doth God execute his decrees? A. God executeth his decrees in the works of creation and providence.

This is an audio podcast of “Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism,” taught by Dr. James J. Cassidy. Videos of each lesson including Spanish and Chinese subtitles are available for free online at <a href="http://reformedforum.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reformedforum.org</a>. Dr. Cassidy is the pastor of <a href="http://www.southaustinpres.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">South Austin Presbyterian Church</a>. He graduated in 2014 from Westminster Theological Seminary with the Ph.D in systematic theology writing on the theology of Karl Barth. He is the author of <a href="https://reformedforum.org/product/gods-time-for-us-barths-reconciliation-of-eternity-and-time-in-jesus-christ/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> God’s Time For Us: Barth on the Reconciliation of Eternity and Time in Jesus Christ</a> (Lexham Press). If you’re excited about this theology and want to enable people around the world to watch and listen to these free resources, please visit <a href="https://reformedforum.org/donate" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://reformedforum.org/donate</a> to provide your support. Q. 8. How doth God execute his decrees? A. God executeth his decrees in the works of creation and providence.

[Introduction to the Westminster Shorter Catechism] Q/A 8

Reformed Forum supports the church in presenting every person mature in Christ (Colossians 1:28) by providing Reformed theological resources to pastors, scholars, and anyone who desires to grow in their understanding of Scripture and the theology that faithfully summarizes its teachings.

Christ exulting, Christ centered Podcast.

Each episode unearths the treasures of God&#39;s Word.

Challenging and thoroughly biblical

Reformed Forum

The tabernacle is a premier symbol and type in the Old Testament. It demonstrates God's dwelling with his people. Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey turn to Vos's discussion and consider the redemptive-historical significance of the tabernacle. Read along on pp. 148–150.

The tabernacle is a premier symbol and type in the Old Testament. It demonstrates God's dwelling with his people. Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey turn to Vos's discussion and consider the redemptive-historical significance of the tabernacle. Read along on pp. 148–150.

Vos Group #33 — The Tabernacle

Rob and Bob discuss a the basic history and shape of the Young, Restless, and Reformed movement of the past decade or so, depending on who you ask. And, somehow, we have this discussion in the context of Paul's early ministry!

Rob and Bob discuss a the basic history and shape of the Young, Restless, and Reformed movement of the past decade or so, depending on who you ask. And, somehow, we have this discussion in the context of Paul's early ministry!

Young, Restless, and Reformed

Several traditions within the Christian church have understood the second commandment differently. Some have understood it is a prohibition against statues. Others understand the commandment to prohibit images of God in worship. Still others argue it is a prohibition against all images as representations of God. We discuss the duties required and reasons annexed to the second commandment as well as the liturgical theology inherent to the issue. Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 21: Of Religious Worship, and the Sabbath Day 1. The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty over all, is good, and doth good unto all, and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served, with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the might. But the acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture. Westminster Larger Catechism Q. 107. Which is the second commandment? A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. Q. 108. What are the duties required in the second commandment? A. The duties required in the second commandment are, the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath instituted in his word; particularly prayer and thanksgiving in the name of Christ; the reading, preaching, and hearing of the word; the administration and receiving of the sacraments; church government and discipline; the ministry and maintenance thereof; religious fasting; swearing by the name of God, and vowing unto him: as also the disapproving, detesting, opposing, all false worship; and, according to each one's place and calling, removing it, and all monuments of idolatry. Q. 109. What sins are forbidden in the second commandment? A. The sins forbidden in the second commandment are, all devising, counseling, commanding, using, and any wise approving, any religious worship not instituted by God himself; the making any representation of God, of all or of any of the three persons, either inwardly in our mind, or outwardly in any kind of image or likeness of any creature whatsoever; all worshiping of it, or God in it or by it; the making of any representation of feigned deities, and all worship of them, or service belonging to them; all superstitious devices, corrupting the worship of God, adding to it, or taking from it, whether invented and taken up of ourselves, or received by tradition from others, though under the title of antiquity, custom, devotion, good intent, or any other pretense whatsoever; simony; sacrilege; all neglect, contempt, hindering, and opposing the worship and ordinances which God hath appointed. Q. 110. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it? A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it, contained in these words, For I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments; are, besides God's sovereignty over us, and propriety in us, his fervent zeal for his own worship, and his revengeful indignation against all false worship, as being a spiritual whoredom; accounting the breakers of this commandment such as hate him, and threatening to punish them unto divers generations; and esteeming the observers of it such as love him and keep his commandments, and promising mercy to them unto many generations. Westminster Shorter Catechism Q. 49. Which is the second commandment? A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. Q. 50. What is required in the second commandment? A. The second commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in his word. Q. 51. What is forbidden in the second commandment? A. The second commandment forbiddeth the worshiping of God by images, or any other way not appointed in his word. Q. 52. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment? A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God's sovereignty over us, his propriety in us, and the zeal he hath to his own worship.

Several traditions within the Christian church have understood the second commandment differently. Some have understood it is a prohibition against statues. Others understand the commandment to prohibit images of God in worship. Still others argue it is a prohibition against all images as representations of God. We discuss the duties required and reasons annexed to the second commandment as well as the liturgical theology inherent to the issue. Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 21: Of Religious Worship, and the Sabbath Day 1. The light of nature showeth that there is a God, who hath lordship and sovereignty over all, is good, and doth good unto all, and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, and served, with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the might. But the acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by himself, and so limited by his own revealed will, that he may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the Holy Scripture. Westminster Larger Catechism Q. 107. Which is the second commandment? A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. Q. 108. What are the duties required in the second commandment? A. The duties required in the second commandment are, the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath instituted in his word; particularly prayer and thanksgiving in the name of Christ; the reading, preaching, and hearing of the word; the administration and receiving of the sacraments; church government and discipline; the ministry and maintenance thereof; religious fasting; swearing by the name of God, and vowing unto him: as also the disapproving, detesting, opposing, all false worship; and, according to each one's place and calling, removing it, and all monuments of idolatry. Q. 109. What sins are forbidden in the second commandment? A. The sins forbidden in the second commandment are, all devising, counseling, commanding, using, and any wise approving, any religious worship not instituted by God himself; the making any representation of God, of all or of any of the three persons, either inwardly in our mind, or outwardly in any kind of image or likeness of any creature whatsoever; all worshiping of it, or God in it or by it; the making of any representation of feigned deities, and all worship of them, or service belonging to them; all superstitious devices, corrupting the worship of God, adding to it, or taking from it, whether invented and taken up of ourselves, or received by tradition from others, though under the title of antiquity, custom, devotion, good intent, or any other pretense whatsoever; simony; sacrilege; all neglect, contempt, hindering, and opposing the worship and ordinances which God hath appointed. Q. 110. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it? A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment, the more to enforce it, contained in these words, For I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments; are, besides God's sovereignty over us, and propriety in us, his fervent zeal for his own worship, and his revengeful indignation against all false worship, as being a spiritual whoredom; accounting the breakers of this commandment such as hate him, and threatening to punish them unto divers generations; and esteeming the observers of it such as love him and keep his commandments, and promising mercy to them unto many generations. Westminster Shorter Catechism Q. 49. Which is the second commandment? A. The second commandment is, Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. Q. 50. What is required in the second commandment? A. The second commandment requireth the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and ordinances as God hath appointed in his word. Q. 51. What is forbidden in the second commandment? A. The second commandment forbiddeth the worshiping of God by images, or any other way not appointed in his word. Q. 52. What are the reasons annexed to the second commandment? A. The reasons annexed to the second commandment are, God's sovereignty over us, his propriety in us, and the zeal he hath to his own worship.

The Second Commandment

Today on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob return to the subject of baptism by way of answering some of our listener questions. Enjoy this practical discussion about some of the ins and outs of dealing with different circumstances that leaders might need to think through.

Today on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob return to the subject of baptism by way of answering some of our listener questions. Enjoy this practical discussion about some of the ins and outs of dealing with different circumstances that leaders might need to think through.

Baptism - Listener Questions

Lane Tipton, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey speakabout nature-grace dualism and the means of grace. This was a livepanel discussion held during our Austin Theology Conference atProvidence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas, April 30, 2016.

Lane Tipton, Glen Clary, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey speak about nature-grace dualism and the means of grace. This was a live panel discussion held during our Austin Theology Conference at Providence OPC in Pflugerville, Texas, April 30, 2016.

Nature and the Means of Grace

Attending a Reformed church for the first time can be a daunting task. Joining one may seem even more challenging. Ken Golden has written an excellent book to help, and he joins us today to speak about it. Presbytopia: What it Means to be Presbyterian (Christian Focus) is an accessible yet uncompromising introduction to Christian essentials, Reformed distinctives, and the means of grace. Ken Golden is pastor of Sovereign Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church in Davenport, Iowa.

Attending a Reformed church for the first time can be a daunting task. Joining one may seem even more challenging. Ken Golden has written an excellent book to help, and he joins us today to speak about it. <a href="http://www.wtsbooks.com/presbytopia-ken-golden-9781781917435?utm_source=reformedforum&amp;utm_medium=blogpartners" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Presbytopia: What it Means to be Presbyterian</a> (Christian Focus) is an accessible yet uncompromising introduction to Christian essentials, Reformed distinctives, and the means of grace. Ken Golden is pastor of <a href="http://sovgraceopc.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sovereign Grace Orthodox Presbyterian Church</a> in Davenport, Iowa.

Presbytopia: What it Means to be Presbyterian

Glen Clary and Camden Bucey speak about the ministry of the Holy Spirit and cessationism. We discuss how the pouring out of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is a unique event of redemptive-history just as unrepeatable as the death and resurrection of Christ. As individuals are effectually called and united to Christ by faith, they are incorporated into the Spirit-baptized body of Christ.    https://vimeo.com/345008740

Glen Clary and Camden Bucey speak about the ministry of the Holy Spirit and cessationism. We discuss how the pouring out of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is a unique event of redemptive-history just as unrepeatable as the death and resurrection of Christ. As individuals are effectually called and united to Christ by faith, they are incorporated into the Spirit-baptized body of Christ. <a href="https://vimeo.com/345008740" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/345008740</a>

Cessationism

Bill Dennison speaks about Karl Marx, leading us through his biography, influences, and his intellectual effects upon social and political history.

Bill Dennison speaks about Karl Marx, leading us through his biography, influences, and his intellectual effects upon social and political history.

Karl Marx

On this week's episode of Theology Simply Profound, we republish the first episode of our series on Dispensationalism. This was originally episode 22.   In this series, we discuss questions like What is Dispensationalism? How does Dispensational Theology differ from covenantal theology? Are the differences important? You can find all of the episodes in one place here: Dispensationalism Series

On this week's episode of Theology Simply Profound, we republish the first episode of our series on Dispensationalism. This was originally episode 22. In this series, we discuss questions like What is Dispensationalism? How does Dispensational Theology differ from covenantal theology? Are the differences important? You can find all of the episodes in one place here: <a href="https://reformedforum.org/category/series/dispensationalism/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dispensationalism Series</a>

Dispensationalism 101

Karl Barth

Thomas Aquinas

Jim Cassidy previews his address at the 2018 Reformed Forum conference by speaking about Barth on the analogy of being and the analogy of faith and how his views relate to the theology of Thomas Aquinas. Jim and Camden also speak about Barth's views of natural theology and how they relate to the views of Cornelius Van Til. This is in response to recent remarks from Dr. Michael Allen on the Credo Magazine podcast (around minute 37). If you'd like to jump directly to that portion of our discussion, you can watch it on YouTube. [embed]https://youtu.be/JOzUuDDGIOU[/embed]

Jim Cassidy previews his address at the 2018 Reformed Forum conference by speaking about Barth on the analogy of being and the analogy of faith and how his views relate to the theology of Thomas Aquinas. Jim and Camden also speak about Barth's views of natural theology and how they relate to the views of Cornelius Van Til. This is in response to recent remarks from Dr. Michael Allen on the <a href="https://credomag.com/2018/09/thomas-aquinas-friend-or-foe-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Credo Magazine podcast</a> (around minute 37). If you'd like to jump directly to that portion of our discussion, you can <a href="https://youtu.be/WFjAkoxGFYE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">watch it on YouTube</a>. [embed]<a href="https://youtu.be/JOzUuDDGIOU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/JOzUuDDGIOU</a>[/embed]

Previewing Karl Barth and Thomas Aquinas on Analogy

In the incarnation, the eternal Son of God assumed a human nature. He did this without giving up his divinity. He retains his immutability, omniscience, omnipresence, and all the attributes according to his eternal, divine, and necessary existence.   In this episode, we discuss how these two natures relate to the person in the hypostatic union. By looking at Scripture, the Council of Chalcedon, and our confessional tradition, we review an orthodox grammar for speaking about these matters.   An error in the doctrine of God or Christology, however minor it may seem, will inevitably compound as other doctrines are developed. We should always seek to maintain confessional orthodoxy by reviewing the basics from which we never graduate.    https://vimeo.com/332112150/b56463a73a

In the incarnation, the eternal Son of God assumed a human nature. He did this without giving up his divinity. He retains his immutability, omniscience, omnipresence, and all the attributes according to his eternal, divine, and necessary existence. In this episode, we discuss how these two natures relate to the person in the hypostatic union. By looking at Scripture, the Council of Chalcedon, and our confessional tradition, we review an orthodox grammar for speaking about these matters. An error in the doctrine of God or Christology, however minor it may seem, will inevitably compound as other doctrines are developed. We should always seek to maintain confessional orthodoxy by reviewing the basics from which we never graduate. <a href="https://vimeo.com/332112150/b56463a73a" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/332112150/b56463a73a</a>

The Creator-creature Distinction in the Hypostatic Union

The people of God presently live in between grace and glory. We look back upon the finished work of Jesus Christ while also looking forward to his return, our resurrection, and the consummation of the New Heavens and New Earth. Speaking of the faithful, the author of the epistle to the Hebrews writes, "These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth" (Heb 11:13). While we labor in the world, we do not ultimately belong in this world. We are citizens of heaven. In this episode, we explore the biblical pilgrim motif and its application for the Christian life.

The people of God presently live in between grace and glory. We look back upon the finished work of Jesus Christ while also looking forward to his return, our resurrection, and the consummation of the New Heavens and New Earth. Speaking of the faithful, the author of the epistle to the Hebrews writes, "These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth" (Heb 11:13). While we labor in the world, we do not ultimately belong in this world. We are citizens of heaven. In this episode, we explore the biblical pilgrim motif and its application for the Christian life.

Pilgrims in a Foreign Land

On this week's episode of Theology Simply Profound, Bob reads J. Gresham Machen's address as printed in The Princeton Theological Review, Volume 11 issue 1, 1913, "Christianity and Culture." 

On this week's episode of Theology Simply Profound, Bob reads J. Gresham Machen's address as printed in The Princeton Theological Review, Volume 11 issue 1, 1913, <a href="http://commons.ptsem.edu/id/princetontheolog1111arms-dmd002" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">"Christianity and Culture.</a>"

"Christianity and Culture"

Dispensationalism is a system of doctrine that views human history as divided into distinct eras (or dispensations). In each of these dispensations, God provides a unique test to humanity. Repeatedly, they fail these tests and receive the judgment requisi

Dispensationalism is a system of doctrine that views human history as divided into distinct eras (or dispensations). In each of these dispensations, God provides a unique test to humanity. Repeatedly, they fail these tests and receive the judgment requisi

Dispensationalism

In this special two-part episode, we discuss the observation of Christmas. This subject is perennially debated in the Reformed community. Listen as we discuss the historical, theological, and practical issues.

In this special two-part episode, we discuss the observation of Christmas. This subject is perennially debated in the Reformed community. Listen as we discuss the historical, theological, and practical issues.

The Nativity and Worship, Part 1

Dr. Cornelis Venema speaks about the doctrine of election. His book,  Chosen in Christ: Revisiting the Contours of Predestination, is available in Mentor's Reformed, Exegetical, and Doctrinal Studies series. Venema addresses the subject from exegetical, historical, contemporary, and pastoral vantage points. In this conversation, he addresses the doctrine of election in the Old and New Testaments, the relationship between covenant and election, the polemical discourse between Augustine and Pelagius, and the revisionist doctrine of Karl Barth.   Dr. Venema is President and Professor of Doctrinal Studies at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, Indiana. He is the author of several books, including  Promise of the Future,  Christ and Covenant Theology, and  Children at the Lord's Table? Assessing the Case for Paedocommunion.    https://vimeo.com/347567061

Dr. Cornelis Venema speaks about the doctrine of election. His book, <a href="https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/chosen-in-christ-revisiting-the-contours-of-predestination-revised-reformed-exegetical-doctrinal-studies-9781527102354?variant=11167924092975?utm_source=reformedforum&amp;utm_medium=blogpartners" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Chosen in Christ: Revisiting the Contours of Predestination</a>, is available in Mentor's Reformed, Exegetical, and Doctrinal Studies series. Venema addresses the subject from exegetical, historical, contemporary, and pastoral vantage points. In this conversation, he addresses the doctrine of election in the Old and New Testaments, the relationship between covenant and election, the polemical discourse between Augustine and Pelagius, and the revisionist doctrine of Karl Barth. Dr. Venema is President and Professor of Doctrinal Studies at <a href="http://www.midamerica.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mid-America Reformed Seminary</a> in Dyer, Indiana. He is the author of several books, including <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Promise-Future-Cornelis-P-Venema/dp/0851517935/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=cornelis+venema&amp;qid=1562946453&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-1&amp;tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Promise of the Future</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Covenant-Theology-Republication-Covenants/dp/1629952516/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=cornelis+venema&amp;qid=1562946453&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-6&amp;tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Christ and Covenant Theology</a>, and <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Children-Lords-Table-Assessing-Paedocommunion/dp/1601780591/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=cornelis+venema&amp;qid=1562946453&amp;s=gateway&amp;sr=8-9&amp;tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Children at the Lord's Table? Assessing the Case for Paedocommunion</a>. <a href="https://vimeo.com/347567061" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/347567061</a>

The Doctrine of Election

Dr. Lawrence Feingold brings us a Catholic's perspective on Thomas Aquinas and the important connection between his doctrines of the Eucharist and the Beatific Vision.

Dr. Lawrence Feingold brings us a Catholic's perspective on Thomas Aquinas and the important connection between his doctrines of the Eucharist and the Beatific Vision.

The Beatific Vision and the Eucharist in the Theology of Thomas Aquinas

James Dolezal discusses his book  All That Is in God: Evangelical Theology and the Challenge of Classical Christian Theism (Reformation Heritage Books, 2017). Dr. Dolezal serves as associate professor in the school of divinity at Cairn University in Langhorne, Pennsylvania.   In this conversation, and the book that guides it, Dolezal addresses the doctrines of classical theism as well as contemporary models of theology proper, which reject, compromise, or otherwise diminish the classical formulations. Interacting with primary sources from theologians such as Bruce Ware, John Frame, and K. Scott Oliphint, Dolezal charitably offers a critique while reaffirming that all that is in God is God.          Links    James Dolezal,  God without Parts: Divine Simplicity and the Metaphysics of God's Absoluteness Christ the Center, episode 185 — James Dolezal, God without Parts: The Doctrine of Divine Simplicity Christ the Center, episode 237 — James Dolezal, Divine Impassibility Christ the Center, episode 383 — Samuel Renihan, God without Passions Camden Bucey, "Addressing the Essential-Covenantal Model of Theology Proper" Camden Bucey, "Van Til and the Creator-Creature Relation"     https://vimeo.com/398103138

James Dolezal discusses his book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/All-That-God-Evangelical-Challenge/dp/1601785542/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=all+that+is+in+god&amp;qid=1584402130&amp;sr=8-1&amp;tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> All That Is in God: Evangelical Theology and the Challenge of Classical Christian Theism</a> (Reformation Heritage Books, 2017). <a href="https://cairn.edu/team/james-dolezal/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dr. Dolezal</a> serves as associate professor in the school of divinity at <a href="https://cairn.edu/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cairn University</a> in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. In this conversation, and the book that guides it, Dolezal addresses the doctrines of classical theism as well as contemporary models of theology proper, which reject, compromise, or otherwise diminish the classical formulations. Interacting with primary sources from theologians such as Bruce Ware, John Frame, and K. Scott Oliphint, Dolezal charitably offers a critique while reaffirming that all that is in God is God. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/All-That-God-Evangelical-Challenge/dp/1601785542/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=all+that+is+in+god&amp;qid=1584402130&amp;sr=8-1&amp;tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> </a> Links <ul> <li>James Dolezal, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/God-without-Parts-Metaphysics-Absoluteness/dp/1610976584/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=james+dolezal+god+without+parts&amp;qid=1584403272&amp;sr=8-1&amp;tag=reforum-20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> God without Parts: Divine Simplicity and the Metaphysics of God's Absoluteness</a></li> <li>Christ the Center, episode 185 — James Dolezal, <a href="https://reformedforum.org/ctc185/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God without Parts: The Doctrine of Divine Simplicity</a></li> <li>Christ the Center, episode 237 — James Dolezal, <a href="https://reformedforum.org/ctc237/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Divine Impassibility</a></li> <li>Christ the Center, episode 383 — Samuel Renihan, <a href="https://reformedforum.org/ctc383/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">God without Passions</a></li> <li>Camden Bucey, "<a href="https://reformedforum.org/addressing-the-essential-covenantal-model-of-theology-proper/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Addressing the Essential-Covenantal Model of Theology Proper</a>"</li> <li>Camden Bucey, "<a href="https://reformedforum.org/van-til-and-the-creator-creature-relation/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Van Til and the Creator-Creature Relation</a>"</li> </ul> <a href="https://vimeo.com/398103138" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://vimeo.com/398103138</a>

All That Is in God

Michael J. Kruger joins us to speak about his book Christianity at the Crossroads: How the Second Century Shaped the Future of the Church.

Michael J. Kruger joins us to speak about his book Christianity at the Crossroads: How the Second Century Shaped the Future of the Church.

Christianity in the Second-Century

A. G. Sertillanges' The Intellectual Life: Its Spirit, Conditions, Methods is a brilliant work on the life of the mind. Balancing definition, practical tips, and warnings against pitfalls, Sertillanges sets a course for the Christian scholar. This book is

A. G. Sertillanges' The Intellectual Life: Its Spirit, Conditions, Methods is a brilliant work on the life of the mind. Balancing definition, practical tips, and warnings against pitfalls, Sertillanges sets a course for the Christian scholar. This book is

The Intellectual Life: Its Spirit, Conditions, Methods by A. G. Sertillanges

The best podcast episodes on global issues affecting everyone. Covering topics such as the #metoo movement, climate change, the impact of technology and some of the biggest global issues facing us right now. For anyone interested in learning more about the world, and some of the issues we're facing, pick an episode below and start listening! Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

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