Episodes

  • The Book of Numbers, Part 1

    The Book of Numbers, Part 1

    · Theology on the Go

    Jonathan and James sit down with their friend, Michael Morales, Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, to discuss Volume 1 of his recently released commentary on the Book of Numbers, which covers Chapters 1 through 19. Ten years in the making, this much-anticipated work sheds light on a part of the Bible often referenced yet rarely preached and explained.

    Those opening chapters are not simply packing up to go on a journey, it's really what the entire meeting with God at Sinai has been about. And so you get the creation of the covenant community – the first time in history God dwelling literally in the midst of His people
that became the linchpin. Then I realized the rest of the book is analyzing this thing that we call "covenant community." – Michael Morales

    Together, they discuss the concept of the covenant community, the significance of the Tabernacle, and how the structure of the camp reveals deeper theological truths about communion with God. Tune in to hear about the ongoing relevance of Numbers, its positive vision for life, and the surprising challenge it offers to contemporary Christians.

    Thanks to the generosity of Wiley Publishing, a division of Intervarsity Press, we are pleased to offer a copy of Numbers 1-19 (Apollos Old Testament Commentary) by L. Michael Morales to our listeners. Enter here.

    Show Notes:

    https://www.alliancenet.org/giving-tuesday

  • The Giver of Life

    The Giver of Life

    · Theology on the Go

    Hosts Jonathan Master and James Dolezal welcome back J.V. Fesko, the Harriet Barber Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, to discuss his new book, The Giver of Life: The Biblical Doctrine of the Holy Spirit and Salvation, in which John reflects on the person and work of the Holy Spirit and his role in salvation. With many other historic texts available which address this topic, why did John want to write about the Holy Spirit?

    Every generation has to own the teaching of Scripture in order to pass it on to future generations. We can’t just assume it. We have to own it. – J.V. Fesko

    Through a combination of biblical, historical, and theological study, Fesko illuminates the blessing of God’s presence with his people. This episode is a rich discussion for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the Holy Spirit's work in salvation.

    Thanks to the generosity of Lexham Press, we are pleased to offer two copies of The Giver of Life: The Biblical Doctrine of the Holy Spirit and Salvation, by J.V. Fesko. Enter here.

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  • How to Study the Bible's Use of the Bible

    How to Study the Bible's Use of the Bible

    · Theology on the Go

    He's back! Gary Schnittjer, honorary Theology on the Go host, sits down with James and Jonathan to discuss his book, How to Study the Bible's Use of the Bible: Seven Hermeneutical Choices for the Old and New Testaments, which he co-wrote with Matthew Harmon. Intended for students of both testaments, Schnittjer's latest book demonstrates how the Old Testament's use of Scripture provides resources for the New Testament authors' use of Scripture.

    "The Old Testament interpretation of itself set the course for the New Testament interpretation of the Old Testament." – Gary Schnittjer

    How to Study the Bible's Use of the Bible is a model for students to ground hermeneutics in biblical evidence and provide insight into understanding why the Bible's use of the Bible is essential. After this conversation, Jonathan even comes around to Gary's point of view.

    "You've opened my heart to the study of hermeneutics with this book, and so I owe you a great debt of gratitude." – Jonathan Master

    Thanks to the generosity of Zondervan Academic, we are pleased to offer two copies of How to Study the Bible's Use of the Bible by Gary Schnittjer and Matthew Harmon. Enter here.

    Show Notes:

    How to Study the Bible's Use of the Bible: Seven Hermeneutical Choices for the Old and New Testaments by Gary Schnittjer and Matthew Harmon

    https://www.amazon.com/How-Study-Bibles-Bible-Hermeneutical/dp/0310142458

    Videos associated with the book: https://masterlectures.zondervanacademic.com/products/how-to-study-the-bible-s-use-of-the-bible

  • The Pilgrim's Progress, Part 3

    The Pilgrim's Progress, Part 3

    · Theology on the Go

    Join James, Jonathan, and their friend, Jeffrey Stivason, pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church and a professor at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, as they resume their insightful and practical discussion of John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress in Part 3 of the series. Together, they explore the significance of the Palace Beautiful and its representation of the Church.

    Bookending this whole section is
the importance of the Church, the importance of Christian fellowship as we walk our pilgrimage as followers of Jesus Christ. – Jonathan Master

    This episode provides deep insights into the importance of the Church, the role of pastors, and the transformative power of Christian fellowship. Don’t miss it! And if you’re following along, plan to read through the Valley of Humiliation and Into the Valley of the Shadow of Death for next time.

    For the opportunity to win a copy of The Pilgrim’s Progress, thanks to the generosity of Banner of Truth, enter here.

    Show Notes:

    The Pilgrim’s Progress: https://reformedresources.org/the-pilgrims-progress-clothbound/

    Pictures from Pilgrim’s Progress: https://reformedresources.org/pictures-from-pilgrims-progress-paperback/

  • The Dawning of Redemption

    The Dawning of Redemption

    · Theology on the Go

    James and Jonathan sit down with Ian Vaillancourt, professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Heritage Theological Seminary, to discuss his book, The Dawning of Redemption: The Story of the Pentateuch and the Hope of the Gospel. Why is reading and studying the Pentateuch essential as a foundation for understanding the story of redemption revealed in the rest of Scripture?

    Imagine arriving at a movie fifteen minutes late, and you're all excited to settle in to see the movie, and very quickly realize, "I don't get it." And that's a little bit of what reading the Bible is like without understanding these first five books. It's the first act in the Bible's grand story of redemption. – Ian Vaillancourt

    Ian talks about the books of Moses in an engaging, clear way. He systematically examines the themes of creation, the fall, the exodus, genealogies, and more and how they point to and culminate in Christ and his redemptive work for us.

    We are pleased to award two copies of The Dawning of Redemption by Ian Vaillancourt to our faithful listeners, courtesy of Crossway Books. Congratulations Donnie H. from Colorado Springs, CO and Neal Y. from Ashville, AL!

  • Understanding Family Worship

    Understanding Family Worship

    · Theology on the Go

    Back on the podcast for the third time, Terry Johnson, senior pastor of Independent Presbyterian Church in Savannah, GA, sits down with James and Jonathan to discuss his book, Understanding Family Worship. A companion piece to The Family Worship Book, this work lays the foundation for why family worship is important from a historic perspective and then develops the elements and practices of family worship.

    Family worship has been a foundation of faith for many families across many generations, but there are certainly barriers to this practice, including feelings of inadequacy and time restraints. Still, Terry believes these challenges can and should be overcome for the whole family's benefit.

    I think that's part of the attraction of Terry's work on worship is that it's biblical grounded, it's presented in an understandable and reasonable manner, and I think that our listeners who aren't practicing this would be really encouraged to think constructively about the necessity of it. – James Dolezal

    We are pleased to award two copies of Understanding Family Worship: Its History, Theology and Practice by Terry Johnson to our listeners, as well as a bonus copy of The Family Worship Book, courtesy of Christian Focus Publications. Congratulations to Tonia W. from Anna, TX and Matthew B. from Manchester, NH!

    Show Notes:

    The Family Worship Book: https://www.christianfocus.com/products/261/the-family-worship-book

  • Divine Righteousness

    Divine Righteousness

    · Theology on the Go

    Though we know God is righteous, defining that term can be challenging. What does it mean that God is righteous? How do we define and describe God's righteousness? How is it connected to divine justice? How does He demonstrate His righteousness?

    James and Jonathan take a fresh look at this topic, considering the various forms of righteousness and how they apply to our Holy God and, therefore, to us as His redeemed children.

    We need to actually say that righteousness is something that God is; it's not simply something that He simply demonstrates through His works, but it's who He is. – Jonathan Master

    Take time to meditate on God's righteousness with James and Jonathan as they discuss this important topic.

    We were pleased to award two copies of Everlasting Righteousness; How Shall Men Be Just with God by Horatius Bonar to our listeners, courtesy of Banner of Truth. Congratulations to Lawrence E. from Evansville, WY and Sam V. from Bakersfield, CA!

    Show Notes:

    James Dolezal’s article on Ligonier: https://www.ligonier.org/learn/articles/god-is-righteous

  • Daily Devotions with Herman Bavinck

    Daily Devotions with Herman Bavinck

    · Theology on the Go

    Award-winning author and editor Donald McKim joins James and Jonathan to discuss his book, Daily Devotions with Herman Bavinck. Bavinck was a significant Reformed scholar and theologian whose popularity has increased in recent years. Though Bavinck did not leave behind a body of devotional material, Don has written eighty-four brief devotional readings accompanied by Scripture exploring Bavinck's thoughts to deepen readers' understanding and faith.

    Donald McKim's book is doing for Bavinck what earlier Dutch Reformed theologians had done for themselves, which is step you into that practical application, and there's nothing unnatural about it. It feels like exactly the next step that you should take. – James Dolezal

    With Bavinck, McKim understands that Christian belief is to be joined with Christian living, and he has given us an excellent practical application of Bavinck's theology.

    Thanks to the generosity of our friends at P&R Publishing, we are pleased to award two copies of Donald McKim's book to our listeners. Congratulations to Brandon H. from Thompsons Station, TN and Alex H. from Cuyahoga Falls, OH!

    Show Notes:

    Reformed Dogmatics by Herman Bavinck in 4 volumes: http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/reformed-dogmatics-4-volumes/291090

    Other books by Donald McKim: https://www.prpbooks.com/authors/donald-k-mckim

  • Why Should I Tithe?

    Why Should I Tithe?

    · Theology on the Go

    According to Joseph Pipa, "We need a robust theology of tithing" to remain faithful Christians. Jonathan and James sit down with Dr. Pipa to discuss his booklet, What Are the Benefits of Biblical Stewardship and Tithing?, in which he establishes the duty of tithing from both the Old and New Testaments and shows us that our stewardship is an essential act of worship that flows from the grace of God. In addition, there are spiritual blessings in this life for those who tithe.

    "I see two things in particular – that it mortifies greed and covetousness, and it teaches us to live by faith. And then of course, it sets our eyes on heaven and laying up treasures in heaven, directing through that our hearts there that God would focus them on him." – Joseph Pipa

    When we give faithfully, we and others enjoy blessings as the needs of the church are met at home and throughout the world.

    We gave away three copies of Dr. Pipa’s booklet to our listeners. Congratulations Cruz T. from Waco, TX, Jatniel P. from Mansfield, TX, and Jorge M. from Fall River, MA. Thank you Reformation Heritage Books!

  • Knowing the Cross

    Knowing the Cross

    · Theology on the Go

    “When I survey the wondrous cross, on which the Prince of Glory died, my richest gain I count but loss, and pour contempt on all my pride.”

    Returning guest Geoffrey Thomas joins James and Jonathan today for an inspiring conversation about his new book, Knowing the Cross, in which he investigates God's Word to understand the true meaning of the cross of Christ. How did this instrument of death become a symbol of life? How did the verdict of bad news for Jesus become a declaration of good news for His people?

    "Jesus took my place and bore my condemnation, so now I don't face a tut-tutting God, I don't face a cold welcome, a slightly frowning God who sees me with all the inconsistencies of my life because Jesus Christ has removed every molecule of my guilt, all my shame, all my inadequacies." – Geoff Thomas

    As James says, "The cross actually means something, and it's not whatever we want it to mean, but it's what the Scripture says it means." Listen as Geoff encourages us to love the cross and God's glorious work through it. 

    Congratulations to the following listeners, each of whom won a copy of Knowing the Cross, courtesy of Reformation Heritage Books: John F. from York, PA, Stephen D. from Wheaton, IL, and Jonathan W. from El Paso, TX.

    Show Notes:

    The Death of Death, by John Owen

  • Redemption in Christ

    Redemption in Christ

    · Theology on the Go

    James and Jonathan welcome Todd Rester back to the podcast to discuss the 4th volume of Petrus van Mastricht's Theoretical-Practical Theology: Redemption in Christ. An associate professor of Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA, Todd has spent many years translating Volumes 1-4 of this comprehensive, influential work and has already started working on the fifth volume! Redemption in Christ examines God's great work of obtaining redemption in the Mediator, Jesus Christ.

    "The whole thing is about has Christ done everything necessary that we might have full assurance of God's love and mercy, His grace, and His covenant and faithfulness to us, and the answer is a resounding yes!" – Todd Rester

    In addition to learning about various aspects of this book, be sure to tune in to discover how Mastricht's work is still relevant today and was referenced in a recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling!

    We awarded away two copies of Theoretical-Practical Theology, Volume 4: Redemption in Christ, courtesy of Reformation Heritage Books. Congratulations to Bobby F. from Oklahoma City, OK and Alexander L. from Jacksonville, TN!

  • Reflections on Psalm 46

    Reflections on Psalm 46

    · Theology on the Go

    James and Jonathan spend time reflecting on Psalm 46 today. Martin Luther claimed this was “his psalm,” it is the basis for one of our most well-known hymns, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.” This beautiful psalm starts with the comforting words, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Written for all of us who will at some point face troubles that seem to shake the ground beneath us, Psalm 46 has been a source of strength and comfort to countless people through the ages by focusing our attention on heaven.

    We need to train our minds and train our hearts to be attentive to heaven precisely because that’s the anchor for our souls in many respects when we face these times of great troubles. – Jonathan Master

    “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Be encouraged by this reflection of Psalm 46, a balm for our souls.

    Congratulations to Richard R. from Ladysmith, WI and Zach W. from Gold Bar, WA, each of whom will receive a copy of Learning to Love the Psalms by Robert Godfrey, generously provided by Ligonier Ministries.

  • The Pilgrim's Progress, Part 2

    The Pilgrim's Progress, Part 2

    · Theology on the Go

    The much-anticipated follow-up to the first episode of James and Jonathan’s book club is here! Today, the guys sit down again with their friend, Jeffrey Stivason, pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church and a professor at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary, for Part 2 of this series. Though written in the 17th century, The Pilgrim’s Progress has essential applications that we can glean from reading this classic work. Based on the feedback from listeners, you’re as excited about this as we are!

    “When you think about the Wicket Gate being readiness, when you think about the scroll being assurance, and that whole idea that this is what Christ has done for you. You don’t learn those once, and then your Christian life is made easy because of them. Those are things that you say to yourself repeatedly every day of your life, you know. That’s the Gospel preaching that you do to yourself every day, that you need or you’re not going to last with any sort of vigor or strength.” – Jeffrey Stivason

    We hope you enjoy this second installment of our book club as James, Jonathan, and Jeff (J3) discuss the Interpreter’s House through Hill Difficulty. If you’re following along, plan to read Palace Beautiful through the Valley of Despair and Into the Valley of the Shadow of Death for next time.

    Congratulations to Anthony H. from New Berlin, WI who won the drawing for a copy of The Pilgrim’s Progress. Thank you, Banner of Truth.

    Show Notes:

    The Strait Gate by John Bunyan: https://a.co/d/4dgBmk8

  • Harvest USA

    Harvest USA

    · Theology on the Go

    In today’s culture, it’s hard to find anyone who hasn’t been impacted by sexual sin, either personally or in their family or social circles. Issues of pornography, transgenderism, and homosexuality are pervasive, yet many in the evangelical church do not feel equipped to face the challenges of sexual brokenness. James and Jonathan are joined today by Mark Sanders, the executive director of Harvest USA. Harvest brings the truth and mercy of Jesus Christ by helping individuals and families affected by sexual struggles and by providing resources that address biblical sexuality to individuals and churches.

    Over the years, as the rise of the internet, it’s become much more of a broad discipleship ministry addressing any way that sin has affected our sexuality and our gender, and we’re just seeing more and more the ways that the fall and denial of God as our creator is going in more and more directions with sin. So we want to continue to see how Scripture brings clarity on God’s design but also brings clarity on the hope that we have in Christ. – Mark Sanders

    Harvest USA has always been an important ministry, but it is becoming increasingly vital in today’s culture. Tune in to hear more, and check out their website to see what resources are available, including two new online courses, “Raising Sexually Faithful Kids” and “Parenting Boys and Girls in a Gender-Confused World.

    Thank you, Harvest USA, for providing two copies of Across the Kitchen Table for our listeners. Congratulations to Sharon B. from Lancaster, PA and Billy C. from Virginia Beach, VA!

    Show Notes:

    For more information about Harvest USA and to access their new online courses: https://harvestusa.org/

  • Choose Better

    Choose Better

    · Theology on the Go

    James and Jonathan welcome their bowtie-clad friend, T. David Gordon, to discuss his latest book, Choose Better: 5 Biblical Models for Making Ethical Decisions. How do we know if we’re making the best choices possible? T. David says that over the centuries, Christians in different traditions have distilled scriptural guidance into five models for ethical decision-making. These models give us clear questions to ask in every situation, helping us improve our choices and better understand the choices of fellow believers—especially when they differ from ours.

    The creature made in God’s image has the capacity for reflection, for contemplation, for decision making, and so any choice we make about any aspect of our life is a reflection of the image of God in us, and therefore, it is subject to ethical inspection. – T. David Gordon

    Tune in to discover how T. David’s five biblical models for making ethical decisions equip believers to think biblically and choose better. And also learn why one of these models has him regularly spending a night sleeping in the forest. You may be inspired to grab a hammock and follow suit!

    Amber F. from Langhorne, PA and Brett F. from Ballwin, MO were each chosen to win a copy Choose Better, thanks to the generosity of P&R Publishing!

    Show Notes:

    Why Johnny Can’t Preach by T. David Gordon:

    https://reformedresources.org/why-johnny-cant-preach-paperback/

  • Offering and Embracing Christ

    Offering and Embracing Christ

    · Theology on the Go

    It’s a trip down memory lane as Jonathan and James sit down with their former student, John Biegel, who is now serving as the lead pastor at Cornerstone Evangelical Free Church in Annandale, VA. John recently authored a book, Offering and Embracing Christ: The Marrow Theology of John Colquhoun of Leith. Less well known than the famous “marrow man,” Thomas Boston, Colquhoun was a faithful Scottish minister and Calvinist whose life and preaching reflected the thought of the Marrow men on offering and embracing Christ.

    Colquhoun stands out as being especially indebted to Boston and Erskine and this whole stream of Marrow theology in a way that is unparalleled in the Church of Scotland at the time and really sets up what ends up being this evangelical revival in the Church of Scotland in the early 19th century. – John Biegel

    James and Jonathan are justifiably proud of their former student and commend his book to all, but in particular to anyone who feels the tension between the free offer of the gospel and particular atonement.

    Congratulations to Delano R. from Conway, AR and TH from Soldotna, AK, each of whom won a copy of John’s book, thanks to the generosity of our friends at Reformation Heritage Books!

    Show Notes:

    John recommends the following books by John Colquhoun:

    The Covenant of Grace: https://heritagebooks.org/products/the-covenant-of-grace-colquhoun.html

    A View of Saving Faith: https://a.co/d/4C2HKUl

    A Treatise on the Law and the Gospel*: https://www.heritagebooks.org/products/a-treatise-on-the-law-and-the-gospel-colquhoun-hardcover.html

    https://thelawandthegospel.com/Repentance: https://banneroftruth.org/us/store/theology-books/repentance/

  • The Person and Work of Jesus Christ

    The Person and Work of Jesus Christ

    · Theology on the Go

    Jonathan and James sit down with Brandon Crowe, an author and professor of New Testament at Westminster Theological Seminary, to discuss his latest work, The Lord Jesus Christ: The Biblical Doctrine of the Person and Work of Jesus Christ. Brandon traces Christ’s person and work throughout the Old and New Testaments and church history through biblical, historical, and theological study and then presents systematic and practical implications.

    The book is something like a one-stop-shop where it’s not just the systematics or just biblical theology. It really brings those two between the same covers, and not just that, but also the practical applications of what this means for our salvation and for our worship of Christ. – James Dolezal

    Written from a confessionally Reformed perspective in concert with the great creeds of the church, The Lord Jesus Christ provides a thorough and trustworthy guide to understanding Jesus and his salvific work.

    Thanks to the generosity of Lexham Press, we were able to award two copies of Brandon's book to our listeners. Congratulations to Melissa V. from Chevy Chase, MD and Brent B. from Aberdeen, SD!

  • The Pilgrim's Progress: Part 1

    The Pilgrim's Progress: Part 1

    · Theology on the Go

    James and Jonathan are excited to kick off the Theology on the Go book club today with their good friend Jeffrey Stivason, coming together to discuss The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan. Jeff is pastor of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church and a professor at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

    In this episode, they will discuss the book's first section, from the City of Destruction to the Wicket Gate. So grab your copy of The Pilgrim's Progress (or order one here if you don't own one) and follow along with our knowledgeable and passionate hosts. Jeff believes this book has profoundly impacted his Christian experience, and he highly commends it to others.

    [The Pilgrim's Progress] has the ability to take me by the heart
I just find myself thinking; this is so much like us – to not be able to see the best of things but to be able to see the worst of things so clearly. And here [Christian] is, arriving at the gate, and it's a little triumph and it's a lot of joy to see him move through this part of the path. It feels like life itself, doesn't it? – Jeff Stivason

    Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Banner of Truth, we awarded copies of Bunyan’s classic work to two of our listeners. Congratulations to Franklin H. from Derry, PA and Logan S. from Pittsburgh, PA!

    Each episode over the next several months will discuss a few chapters of the classic work. Part 2 of the book club will air on May 27th, at which time we will cover "The Interpreter's House" (pp. 25-29 in the Banner Books edition).

    Show Notes:

    To order your copy of The Pilgrim’s Progress:https://reformedresources.org/the-pilgrims-progress-clothbound/

    The Strait Gate by John Bunyanhttps://a.co/d/abUTGaJ

  • Why Read The Confessional Presbyterian Journal?

    Why Read The Confessional Presbyterian Journal?

    · Theology on the Go

    Zachary Groff, pastor of Antioch Presbyterian Church and managing editor of The Confessional Presbyterian Journal, joins James and Jonathan today to discuss the 19th annual edition of the publication, which celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Presbyterian Church in America. While serious-minded academically, the journal is accessible to readers from all backgrounds. One ringing theme is the intersection of faithfulness to the Scripture, being true to the Reformed faith, and obedience to the Great Commission.

    It is a very helpful platform...or venue for promoting discussion among conservative and confessional evangelicals on matters not just of confessional theology but also, more broadly, speaking biblical theology, recent publications, and even ongoing debates. — Zach Groff

    Get a copy to read about John Gresham Machen and his role in forming the PCA, the history and formation of the Standing Judicial Commission, a fascinating look at oaths and vows and witnesses in the courts of Presbyterian churches, and ecclesial unity and creation doctrine.

    Congratulations to our winners, Cynthia C. from Jonesborough, TN and Stephen S. from Jacksonville, FL, each of whom won a copy of the 19th edition of The Confessional Presbyterian Journal!

    Show Notes:

    To order your copy of the journal: www.logcollegepress.com/confessional-presbyterian-journal

    Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary: www.gpts.edu

  • Crisis of Confidence

    Crisis of Confidence

    · Theology on the Go

    James and Jonathan are happy to welcome Carl Trueman back to the podcast to discuss his newly-released book, Crisis of Confidence: Reclaiming the Historic Faith in a Culture Consumed with Individualism and Identity. An updated version of The Creedal Imperative (2012), Carl’s new edition analyzes how ancient creeds and confessions protect and promote biblical Christianity in a culture of expressive individualism. Listen to find out what has changed in the culture in the 11 years since he wrote the first book and why this updated version is so important.

    Thanks to the generosity of our friends at Crossway Books, we had two copies of Crisis of Confidence to give away. Congratulations to our winners, Katherine C. from Anoka, MN and Stephen W. from Arlington, TX!

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