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theology that faithfully summarizes its teachings.
Older episodes
- 361God Is a Communicative Being: Divine Communicativeness and Harmony in the Theology of Jonathan EdwardsIn this episode, Jeff Waddington covers God Is a Communicative Being: Divine Communicativeness and Harmony in the Theology of Jonathan Edwards by William M. Schweitzer and published by T&T Clark. The book explores Edwards’s statement, “The great and universal end of God’s creating the world was to communicate himself. God is a communicative being.” Listen as Jeff provides an overview of the issues, but if you’d like to go deeper, read Jeff’s review in the Spring 2013 issue of The Westminster Theological Journal. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jeff Waddington
- 362Vatican II InclusivismHow can Catholic theologians seemingly contradict the official teaching of the Catholic Church? Many commentators believe that, in a recent homily, Pope Francis did just that. While the Vatican has since “clarified” his remarks, the question remains for many other Catholic theologians, who seem to promote doctrinal views in sharp contrast to previous declarations of the Catholic Church. Many Catholics now affirm a view of salvation that is “inclusive,” that is, broad enough to include not only explicit Catholics, but also Muslims, Jews, agnostics, and atheists. Many critics cry foul, since this appears to be a blatant contradiction of traditional Catholic teaching. In this episode, Camden Bucey leads a discussion that touches upon the changes in prolegomena that allow many Catholic theologians to affirm the church’s historic pronouncements while leaving room for new doctrinal formulations such as this contemporary inclusivism. The grand project of Vatican II was to update the Catholic church for a modern age, to open the windows and let in fresh air. To accomplish this overhaul, many theologians resorted to a Kantian-esque view of revelation and history. Listen as the panel discusses the workings of this type of “both-and” theologizing. Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Nick Batzig
- 363Classical Christian DoctrineJason Pickard reviews Classical Christian Doctrine: Introducing the Essentials of the Ancient Faith by Ronald E. Heine and published by Baker Academic. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jason Pickard
- 364Genesis 2:18-24 – The Royal WeddingOn today’s episode we discuss Genesis 2:18-24. We begin today’s discussion by finishing up talking about the two trees in the garden from our previous episode and then we discuss the creation of woman. We consider how it was “not good” for Adam to be alone. Also, we talk about the fact that the woman is created from the man. We also consider the creation of woman in light of the covenant given to Adam and the mandate to take dominion, to be fruitful and multiply. Finally, we consider the way in which marriage is given as a picture of the the covenant relationship between God and His people, between Jesus Christ and His bride, the church. We invite your comments and feedback! Participants: Adam York, Chad Bond, Mark A. Winder, Matt Cotta
- 365Preparing for SeminaryOn today’s episode we talk about what kind of preparation is helpful for someone thinking about seminary; which college majors are most helpful, what kind of readings lists should someone be looking at, what to look for in professors, and the level of involvement in the local church. Preparing for seminary is preparing for a lifetime of learning. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Jeff Waddington
- 366Desiring the KingdomDaniel Schrock reviews Desiring the Kingdom: Worship, Worldview, and Cultural Formation by James K. A. Smith. In this first book of what is planned as a three-book set, Smith describes the liturgical structures that influence and shape our thoughts and affections. For Smith, malls, stadiums, and universities are all venues that express a form of cultural liturgy. Listen as Daniel Schrock, pastor of Third Reformed Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, PA, describes and interacts with this book. Participants: Camden Bucey, Daniel Schrock
- 367The Council on Biblical Manhood and WomanhoodIn this episode, Jared Oliphint speaks with Owen Strachan, the Executive Director for the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. The council exists, “to set forth the teachings of the Bible about the complementary differences between men and women, created equally in the image of God, because these teachings are essential for obedience to Scripture and for the health of the family and the church.” Listen to this excellent conversation of the work of this important organization. Participants: Jared Oliphint, Owen Strachan
- 368God Is Impassible and ImpassionedJames Dolezal, part-time professor of Theology and Church History at Cairn University in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, reviews God Is Impassible and Impassioned: Toward a Theology of Divine Emotion by Rob Lister. The book explores the significance of God’s emotional experience and most especially the question of divine suffering. Participants: Camden Bucey, James Dolezal
- 369The Nature and Use of Apologetic EvidencesReformed theologians have approached the discipline of apologetics from several different vantage points. Proponents of presuppositional, classical, and evidential approaches differ with one another on several important apologetic questions. One primary subject is the nature and proper use of evidences. Should the apologist use historical arguments for the creation, the truthfulness of Scriptures, the resurrection? If so, what role do those evidences play in an apologetic exchange? Dr. Scott Oliphint recently spoke about apologetics on the Unbelievable? program with Justin Brierley to dialogue with Kurt Jaros about apologetic methodology. The conversation touched upon several different apologetic topics, but perhaps the most interesting exchange focused on the use of evidences. It is often assumed that Van Tilian presuppositional apologists eschew the use of evidences. On this episode of Christ the Center, the panel addresses this common assumption. They demonstrate how a covenantal approach to apologetics not only allows the apologist to use evidence, but also provides the only proper context in which they may be used. Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, Jared Oliphint, Jim Cassidy
- 370Calvin, Classical Trinitarianism, and the Aseity of the SonDr. K. Scott Oliphint reviews Calvin, Classical Trinitarianism, and the Aseity of the Son by Brannon Ellis and published by Oxford University Press. In this excellent volume, Ellis investigates the various Reformation and post-Reformation responses to Calvin’s affirmation of the Son’s aseity (or essential self-existence). Listen as Dr. Oliphint, who wrote a more detailed review of the book for the Spring 2013 issue of The Westminster Theological Journal, describes the book’s salient features and provides his assessment of its worth. Participants: Camden Bucey, K. Scott Oliphint
- 371Covenantal ApologeticsDr. Scott Oliphint returns to Christ the Center to discuss his recent book, Covenantal Apologetics. Oliphint’s forthcoming book is an accessible treatment of Van Tilian presuppositional apologetics, the fruit of years of teaching apologetics at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, PA. We discuss with Dr. Oliphint the significance of the book’s title, namely, that the covenantal theology of the Reformed confessions underlies a covenantal apologetic approach. Oliphint explains the “quicksand quotient,” the role of common grace in apologetics, and discusses the motivation behind the example apologetic conversations found in the book. Other Books on Apologetics This selection is taken from our suggested reading list. For more information on how to use this list as well as books in other disciplines, please look at our list. Level 1 Machen, J. Gresham. Christianity and Liberalism. Grand Rapids, Michigan: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 2009. Oliphint, K. Scott. The Battle Belongs to the Lord. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 2003. Pratt, Richard. Every Thought Captive: A Study Manual for the Defense of Christian Truth. Phillipsburg N.J.: Presbyterian and Reformed Pub. Co., 1979. Bahnsen, Greg L. Always Ready: Directions for Defending the Faith. Covenant Media Press, 1996. Level 2 Van Til, Cornelius and Greg L. Bahnsen, ed. Van Til’s Apologetic: Readings and Analysis. P&R Publishing, 1998. Van Til, Cornelius with annotations by K. Scott Oliphint. The Defense of the Faith. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Co., 2008. Oliphint, K. Scott, and Lane G. Tipton, (eds.) Revelation and Reason. Phillipsburg, New Jersey: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 2007. Bahnsen, Greg. Presuppositional Apologetics: Stated and Defended. Powder Springs Ga.; Nacogdoches Tex.: American Vision Inc.; Covenant Media Press, 2008. Level 3 Oliphint, K. Scott. Reasons for Faith: Philosophy in the Service of Theology. Phillipsburg, N. J.: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 2006. Participants: Camden Bucey, David Filson, K. Scott Oliphint
- 372Ruth and Redemptive HistoryToday we discuss the story and message of the book of Ruth in light of the book’s place in redemptive history. This brief story of an unassuming young Gentile woman develops the important biblical themes of the promised land, the inclusion of Gentiles in redemption, and the line of the seed of the woman. In these ways and others, the book of Ruth is a story of redemption, redemption which culminates in Ruth’s descendant, Jesus Christ. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig
- 373The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental DisordersDr. Michael Emlet discusses the recent fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The DSM is the official diagnostic manual used by mental health professionals and published by the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Emlet explains the origin and purpose of the DSM and the questions this new edition raises for Christian believers. He outlines the way Christian counselors and pastors can benefit from the DSM and clarifies the relationship between psychiatric diagnoses and spiritual problems. Click here for the blog post mentioned in the episode. Michael R. Emlet, M.Div., M.D., practiced as a family physician for twelve years before becoming a counselor and faculty member at the Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation (CCEF). He is a Lecturer in Practical Theology at Westminster Theological Seminary (Philadelphia). He has written numerous published articles and is the author of several CCEF booklets including Asperger Syndrome, Angry Children: Understanding and Helping Your Child Regain Control, Help for the Caregiver: Facing the Challenges with Understanding and Strength, and OCD: Freedom for the Obsessive Compulsive; as well as a book, Crosstalk: Where Life and Scripture Meet published by New Growth Press. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Michael Emlet, Nick Batzig
- 374A Neglected Grace: Family Worship in the Christian HomeJason Helopoulos joins us to speak about his book A Neglected Grace: Family Worship in the Christian Home. The discussion covers what family worship is, its elements, and its relationship to private and corporate worship. Pastor Helopoulos also provides practical advice about how to practice family worship especially for those who have neglected it in the past. Jason is the Assistant Pastor at University Reformed Church in Lansing, Michigan (RCA). He attended Dallas Theological Seminary and completed a Masters of Theology degree (ThM) with a concentration in Historical Theology and Christian Education in 2003. He served on the staff of Park Cities Presbyterian Church as a pastoral intern for one year and then accepted a call as an Assistant Pastor at Meadowview Reformed Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Lexington, North Carolina. In the fall of 2007, Jason was called by Christ Church PCA in Grand Rapids, Michigan to plant a daughter church in Lansing, Michigan. He accepted the call and moved to the field (and snow) as church planter and pastored Providence PCA in East Lansing until 2012. In the summer of 2012, Jason accepted the call as Assistant Pastor of University Reformed Church in East Lansing, Michigan and is currently serving this congregation, for which he feels blessed. Jason is married to his beautiful bride, Leah. They are blessed with two wonderful children, Gracen and Ethan. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jason Helopoulos, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig
- 375Four Views on the Role of Works at the Final JudgmentJim Cassidy reviews Four Views on the Role of Works at the Final Judgment. The book contains contributions from Robert Wilken, James Dunn, Thomas Schreiner, and Michael Barber. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy
- 376When the Stars Disappear: Why Christians SufferDr. Mark Talbot speaks about his forthcoming book tentatively entitled, When the Stars Disappear: Why Christians Suffer. Dr. Talbot’s research in philosophy, theology, and psychology serve to interpret his personal experiences of suffering and inform his counseling of those who suffer. The discussion covers the definition and purpose of Christian suffering, the human need to understand life as a story, the danger of a prosperity gospel, and the role of Scripture in the Christian life. Ultimately, the Christian’s hope in suffering is in the faithfulness of God, who cannot deny himself (2 Tim. 2:13). Dr. Talbot is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Wheaton College (IL) where he has taught since 1992. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. His areas of expertise include the intersection of philosophy and theology, philosophy and psychology, the epistemologies of the early modern philosophers, and the works of David Hume, St. Augustine, and Jonathan Edwards. The article mentioned in the interview can be found here. You can also see Dr. Talbot speak about chronic suffering at the 2012 Desiring God Works of God Conference. Participants: Carlton Wynne, Jared Oliphint, Mark Talbot
- 377A Review of So Pastor, What’s Your Point?Jim Cassidy reviews So Pastor, What’s Your Point? by Dennis Prutow, Professor of Homiletics and Pastoral Theology at Reformed Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The book gives practical counsel on preaching combined with wholesome theology and is valuable both to the beginning preacher and the seasoned expositor. Pastor Cassidy explains the format of the book and how it is related to other volumes on preaching. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy
- 378Judges and Redemptive HistoryThe Christ the Center panel discusses the book of Judges, considering its relationship to redemptive history and to the redeemer Jesus Christ. During the “no man’s land” of redemptive history, as Israel awaits the promised king, her people again and again do what is right in their own eyes under the rule of judges who appear morally ambiguous at best. The discussion illustrates how a book that narrates a downward spiral of failure points upward and forward to a great king. Check out our previous redemptive-historical episode on Ruth and Redemptive History. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Nick Batzig
- 379The Aseity of the SonScott Oliphint speaks about the aseity of the Son of God, following up on a review of Brannon Ellis’ book Calvin, Classical Trinitarianism, and the Aseity of the Son. The thesis of the book, which Dr. Oliphint takes up, is that Calvin’s teaching on the Son’s aseity was a way of maintaining orthodoxy but also of advancing and clarifying orthodoxy. The question was, if God the Son is “God of God,” as the Nicene Creed teaches, is he therefore not God of himself? Listen and hear how Calvin answered that question. Dr. Oliphint’s full-length review of Ellis’ book is in the Spring 2013 issue of the Westminster Theological Journal. For more on the doctrine of God, see Dr. Oliphint’s book God with Us: Divine Condescension and the Attributes of God. Participants: Camden Bucey, Deryck Barson, Jared Oliphint, K. Scott Oliphint
- 380Seeing Jesus in Old Testament HistoryThis week, Nancy Guthrie speaks about seeing Jesus in the historical books of the Old Testament. Her book The Son of David, third in her series Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament, explains how each part of the story of Old Testament history – the leader Joshua, the judges of Israel, the redeemer Boaz, and Israel’s many kings – reveals and signifies the Christ who was to come. Nancy Guthrie’s website is http://www.nancyguthrie.com/. Nancy has spoken on Christ the Center about the first two books in this series, The Promised One: Seeing Jesus in Genesis, and The Wisdom of God: Seeing Jesus in the Psalms and Wisdom Books. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nancy Guthrie, Nick Batzig
- 381Housewife TheologianAimee Byrd speaks about her new book, Housewife Theologian: How the Gospel Interrupts the Ordinary, with panel Camden Bucey, Nancy Guthrie, and Melissa Kruger. The topic of her book and of this episode’s discussion is the gospel’s particular applications to the lives of women, women’s role in the family and in the church, and the relevance of theology to mundane and ordinary parts of life. Housewife Theologian is published by P&R. Aimee Byrd blogs at Housewife Theology. She’s also a member of Pilgrim Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Martinsburg, WV where she teaches women’s bible study. And she’s just been announced as a regular contributor to the Mortification of Spin podcast with Carl Trueman and Todd Pruitt. Nancy Guthrie is the author of numerous books and bible study curriculum (including video series) on seeing Christ in the Old Testament. Her latest is The Son of David: Seeing Jesus in the Historical Books. Nancy has joined us for several episodes of Christ the Center (CTC183, CTC224, CTC295). Melissa Kruger is the author of The Envy of Eve published by Christian Focus, which she spoke about on Christ the Center episode 276. She’s also on staff in women’s ministry at Uptown Church (PCA) in Charlotte, NC, a mom to three kids and wife of Dr. Michael Kruger, President and Professor of NT at Reformed Theological Seminary Charlotte. Participants: Aimee Byrd, Camden Bucey, Melissa Kruger, Nancy Guthrie
- 382Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and LibertyBrett McCracken speaks about his book Gray Matters: Navigating the Space Between Legalism and Liberty. The book and today’s discussion address how Christians should relate to culture – food, drink, music, movies. Brett McCracken is a Los Angeles-based writer and journalist. He is the author of Hipster Christianity: When Church & Cool Collide (Baker, 2010) and has written for The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, CNN.com, The Princeton Theological Review, Mediascape, Books & Culture, Christianity Today, Relevant, IMAGE Journal, Q Ideas, and Conversantlife.com. He speaks and lectures frequently at universities, churches, and conferences. A graduate of Wheaton College and UCLA (M.A. in Cinema & Media Studies), Brett currently works as managing editor for Biola University’s Biola Magazine and is pursuing a Master’s in Theology at Talbot School of Theology. Links from the episode: Brett McCracken’s blog, Related Washington Post article, Book trailer Participants: Brett McCracken, Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint
- 383Jesus on Every PageDavid Murray speaks about seeing Christ in the Old Testament based on his book Jesus on Every Page: 10 Simple Ways to Seek and Find Christ in the Old Testament. Dr. Murray’s book is an accessible presentation of Christ-centered reading of “the Law and Prophets.” The interview explores the New Testament foundations for this approach to the Old Testament, challenges an implicitly dispensational view of the Old Testament, and responds to common challenges to this approach. Dr. David Murray is Professor of Old Testament and Practical Theology at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary. He is a pastor in the Free Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, MI. He also blogs at Head Heart Hand. He has previously spoken on Christ the Center regarding “Technology and the Christian Life.” Links: http://jesusoneverypage.com http://www.christianitytoday.com/edstetzer/2013/june/ popularity-pitfalls-and-practice-of-christ-centered-interpr.html Participants: Camden Bucey, David Murray, Jared Oliphint, Nick Batzig
- 384Communicating Reformed Theology through Hip HopFor Christ the Center’s 300th episode, we welcome hip hop artist Timothy Brindle to speak about his work in Christian hip hop and the recent musical movement as a whole. The episode explores hip hop’s stylistic capability to communicate the gospel and reformed theology and includes clips from Timothy’s recordings. Timothy is a student at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, and his record label is Lamp Mode Recordings. Download “The Daily Gospel” by Timothy Brindle for free. The first 300 episodes of Christ the Center are available for download as a 7.3GB .zip file. We may not be able to maintain this link into perpetuity. Download the file while the link still lives. Participants: Camden Bucey, Jared Oliphint, Nick Batzig, Timothy Brindle
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