Bryan Emerson & Grant Baker

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Balm in Gilead58 - Song v Song - Gratitude v Song of the Risen Son Psalm 58 (ESV) To the choirmaster: according to Do Not Destroy. A Miktam of David. 1 Do you indeed decree what is right, you gods? Do you judge the children of man uprightly? 2 No, in your hearts you devise wrongs; your hands deal out violence on earth. 3 The wicked are estranged from the womb; they go astray from birth, speaking lies. 4 They have venom like the venom of a serpent, like the deaf adder that stops its ear, 5 so that it does not...2025-01-061h 14

Balm in Gilead57 – Is Jesus Lower Still? Psalm Psalm 57 Welcome What have we been listening to… since February Bryan (old hats) Poor Bishop Hooper Sarah Sparks Providence The Oh Hellos (really old hats) Switchfoot/Jon Foreman Relient K Colony House (new hats) The Gray Havens You Me & The Bread The Orchardist Nostalgia Shiplap On Repeat Spencer Psallos (Philippians and Hebrews) on 2 road trips New upcoming Psallos tracks for Patreon members! PBH (Psalms, Golgotha) Sarah Sparks (Ways and Means, All I Have) Brian Sauve (Even Dragons Shall Him Praise) Jad...2023-08-301h 37

Balm in Gilead56 – Innovation or Manipulation? The Ethics of Using Technology in Christian Worship Psalm 56 Psalm 56 Welcome “Hello and welcome back to the Balm in Gilead podcast, where we explore all things Christian music and worship. I’m your host, Bryan, and as always, I’m joined by my co-host, Grant. Today, we have a fascinating and thought-provoking topic to dive into – Artificial Intelligence and Christian worship music. What happens when AI writes Christian songs? Can machines truly capture the essence of worship, or is there something unique about human creativity and expression? We’re excited to explore these questions and more as we delve into the i...2023-02-281h 07

Balm in Gilead55 – Deconstructing Reconstructing Deconstruction Psalm 55 Psalm 55 on Relight Welcome The Rev. Aaron De Boer (Associate Reformed Presbyterian, ARP) joins us this week. Follow him on Twitter at @DutchPresby and visit Friend of Sinners church that he pastors in Everson and Maple Falls, WA. For more info visit their website FriendofSinnersReformed.org What We’re Listening to Bryan I have been listening to the album When I Was Younger by Colony House. My van is acting finicky in the cold weather and it’s doing weird things to my battery, so I have unpl...2023-02-071h 24

Balm in Gilead54 – 2022 Spotify Wrapped Psalm 54 We love talking about music on the show and this week we talk about our top picks from 2022. Do you agree with us? Find something interesting? Let us know, follow us on Spotify or Last.fm and drop a comment below. 2023-01-261h 37

Balm in GileadPresbycast Crossover – Music for the Church and the Christian Chortles Weakly and Wresby of the excellent Presbycast podcast join us to talk all things Christian music—from the business, to worship, to personal devotions and even for entertainment purposes. We had a lot of fun…maybe a little too much! Be sure to subscribe to their show: https://presbycast.libsyn.com/ Watch the show: https://youtu.be/s_aOPPt1gc4 We begin our discussion with Brett McCracken’s recent article for TGC, Best Christian Music of 2022, and we have a few questions. Is the music coming from an earnest desire to glorify Christ and an authe...2023-01-101h 37

Balm in GileadFlying Duo: Advent Music with Renee Emerson Balm in Gilead host Bryan Emerson and his wife Renee Emerson discuss their Advent Playlist as well as their thoughts on Christmas/Seasonal Music. Worth noting, we added an Advent Birmingham album after the recording. 2022-12-1334 min

Balm in GileadBonus Episode: Flying Duo (For Real This Time) Bryan got to hang out with Grant and we decided to turn on the camera and see what happens. Credits due to O Creative One by Providence, Eustace Scrubb by Sarah Sparks, Saints by Poor Bishop Hooper, and Behold the Man by Spencer Parsons. We also sang Psalm 42D from The Book of Psalms for Worship and How Firm a Foundation. Watch this one on YouTube! Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with...2022-11-291h 18

Balm in GileadRevisiting the Kensrule Psalm 53 Psalm 53 in the ESV – Hey, did you see that Relight now has the ESV and the KJV? Listen to the Episode We’re Back! This is our first episode back from our “summer” hiatus. Thanks for sticking with us. We start out by talking about what we’ve been up to and listening to. A big shoutout to Poor Bishop Hooper who has just completed their EveryPsalm series with Psalm 150. Main Topic: Revisiting the Royalties Argument A brief peek behind the curtain… Grant came up with the ide...2022-11-151h 25

Balm in GileadBalmcast Flying Solo 3 – Mistakes Were Made As we close out season 4 of the Balm in Gilead podcast, Bryan takes to the airwaves to discuss the phrase “Mistakes were made” and how it relates to the recent Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). We’re taking a break as we’re all pretty busy, but are already planning our next slate of episodes. In the meantime, join us on our brand new Discord channel, we’ll see you there! Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please sha...2022-07-0623 min

Balm in GileadEpisode 52.1 – Bonus episode The Non Sequiter to End All Non Sequiters Whenever FNH is on the show, he brings a wealth of interesting tangents and rabbit trails and Grant is only too happy to follow with Bryan close behind. Bryan is aware he forgot to readjust his vocal levels after cutting all this nonsense from the last episode and pasted it into a new audacity project. Enjoy! Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join...2022-06-1420 min

Balm in GileadEpisode 52 – Into the Lantern Waste Psalm Psalm 52 What We’re Listening To Bryan Psalms for Congregations vol. 2 Matt SearlsWestminster Shorter Catechism 1-10 with Brian Suave FNH The BibleUltimately RC SproulMake Believe HeroesRedemption Card GameSea Shanties for good Christian boys Grant Jenny Oaks BakerJeff LippencottCrown & CovenantSarah SparksThelonious Monk Follow Up We had a three week gap between episodes because I was unable to record a Flying Solo episode because I was too busy being on episode 9 of the Super Reformed Bros podcast.I want to make a clear distinction between what I wi...2022-06-022h 19

Balm in GileadEpisode 51 – Song v Song: Review of “Rest on Us” by Maverick City and “O Creative One” by Providence Psalm Psalm 51 What We’re Listening To What are we listening to Spencer PsallosEDM ResearchSteven Curtis Chapman – The Great Adventure album Bryan Providence Grant Jenny Oaks BakerCrown & CovenantSpencer ParsonsCharlie Grey and Joseph PeachGian Piero ReverberiBonus: Natalie GrantBonus2: European Jazz Trio Studio C – The Other Way to Rob a Bank Why do song vs. song? What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives today? | GotQuestions.orgJohn 16 ESV – “I have said all these things to you – Bible Gateway Song vs. Song 2022-05-111h 31

Balm in GileadBalmcast Flying Solo 2 – Jack Lewis, The Trinity, and Oceans Bryan is back with another Flying Solo. Check it out on YouTube too! 2022-04-2623 min

Balm in GileadReview of the album Jars of Clay with JB Floggington Psalm Psalm 50 Jars of Clay’s self titled album review Liquid Arms nailed down / Are you telling me something? Eyes turned out / Are you looking for someone? This is the one thing / The one thing / The one thing that I know Blood stained brow / Are you dying for nothing? Flesh and blood / Is it so elemental? This is the one thing / The one thing / The one thing that I know Blood stained brow / He wasn't broken for nothing. Arm nailed down / He didn't die for nothing / He didn't die for nothing This is...2022-04-132h 04

Balm in GileadA Conversation with Jesse Roberts of Poor Bishop Hooper (Part 2) Bryan sits down with Jesse Roberts of Poor Bishop Hooper to finish the discussion on their first album, Foreign Made. Check out Poor Bishop Hooper’s website for more on their music. 2022-03-291h 07

Balm in GileadEpisode 49 Part 1 – Review of Poor Bishop Hooper’s Album Foreign Made Psalm Psalm 49 What We’re Listening To Bryan Poor Bishop Hooper, Foreign Made Grant PsallosPoor Bishop HooperCrown & CovenantHolly DuttonCharlie Gray and Joseph PeachSpencer Parsons, Psalm 2 Foreign Made Review Tree Oh Tree Mark 11:12-25 and Matthew 21:18-22 First song on their first album. This is how the world will meet you–a cursed tree and minor undertones. Battle Luke 12:49-56 and Mark 14:27-28 If we’re faithful to Christ, we will rock the boat. Treasure Luke...2022-03-161h 47

Balm in GileadReview of Psallos' Album Philippians with Special Guest Spencer Parsons Psalm Psalm 48 Welcome Spencer! Check him out on Spotify! Or other popular music services like Apple or YouTube Music. What We’re Listening To Spencer Listen to his music such as Psalm 1. Bryan Mars Hill Music Grant Crown & CovenantPoor Bishop HooperBBC Scottish Symphony OrchestraPsallos Main Topic: Philippians Listen to the album with the Bible pulled up next to you. Also, visit Psallos’ website to learn more about them. The story behind Goin’ Home. Hymnos...2022-02-252h 26

Balm in GileadBalmcast Flying Solo 1 CCM is a Broken System Bryan goes solo with both Grant and Justin out. This is our first video podcast too! Check it out on YouTube Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on the Tech Reformation Slack and let us know what you’re thinking. If email is more your thing, write to us at thereis balmcast com. Thanks again and we’ll see you next time, Lord willing. 2022-02-1134 min

Balm in Gilead47 Bonus ep 3: This one’s a little weird Episode 47 bonus episode 3. It was getting late and the guys hopped from the serious to the banal with amazing alacrity. Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on our Discord and let us know what you’re thinking. If email is more your thing, write to us at thereis balmcast com. Thanks again and we’ll see you next time, Lord willing. 2022-01-2206 min

Balm in Gilead47 Bonus ep 2: Snow in the South Episode 47 bonus episode 2: Where we talk about the presence of snow in the south. Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on our Discord and let us know what you’re thinking. If email is more your thing, write to us at thereis balmcast com. Thanks again and we’ll see you next time, Lord willing. 2022-01-2104 min

Balm in Gilead47 Bonus ep 1: On C.S. Lewis Episode 47 bonus episode where we get off on a rabbit trail about C.S. Lewis. Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on our Discord and let us know what you’re thinking. If email is more your thing, write to us at thereis balmcast com. Thanks again and we’ll see you next time, Lord willing. 2022-01-2005 min

Balm in GileadMars Hill Music: The Sing Team + Collaborations (with special guest FNH from the Not the Bee Social Podcast!) Psalm 47 Read Psalm 47 What we’re listening to Bryan: Sarah Sparks – Into the Lantern Waste The Oh Hellos – The Four Winds Grant: PsallosCrown & CovenantThe BlendersThe Corner RoomDwell The Sing Team The Sing Team – Oh! Great is Our God! Oh! Great Is Our God! Verse 1 Oh! Great is our God! So we should worship greatly! / No song is too loud! No orchestra too stately To hail the majesty of our King / So lift your voices loud as we sing Verse 2 Oh! Great is...2022-01-181h 55

Balm in Gilead46 – Mars Hill Music: The Modern Post Psalm Psalm 46 Spotify Wrapped Check out our Slack channel or our group on Not the Bee for our Wrapped and please share your own! Check out Bryan Emerson on YouTube. Songs we discussed Rejoice Dustin Kensrue and Stuart Townend Verse 1 Come and stand before your maker / Full of wonder full of fear Come behold his power and glory / Yet with confidence draw near For the one who holds the heavens / And commands the stars above Is the God who bends to bless us / With an unrelenting...2021-12-072h 08

Balm in Gilead45 – Mars Hill Music: Ghost Ship Psalm Psalm 45 Songs: Creation to Salvation by Drakeford Ghost Ship: The Good King Mediator – CAM HUXFORD IV Verse 1 He takes our place and stands in front of God on high He speaks on our behalf since we don’t have the right He pleads before the God who judges hearts of men Our mediator served the sentence for our sin Chorus 1 There is only one God / There is only one mediator Standing between God and...2021-11-171h 38

Balm in Gilead44 – The Mars Hill Bonus episode An interesting tangential discussion that we thought was worth sharing 2021-10-2607 min

Balm in Gilead44 – Mars Hill Music: Review of the album “Citizens” by Citizens and Saints Psalm 44 What We’re Listening To Bryan Citizens and Foreign Made. Anyone surprised? Justin New automated playlists Grant CitizensPeter GregsonChristi StillsBarrageCrown & Covenant Songs of Mars Hill: Citizens Sweetness of Freedom Zach Bolen and Brian Eichelberger Verse 1: Within my heart’s a Rebellious side / Conflicting with the Spirits’ desire To keep my heart in step with you / So I do not do what I want to do Chorus All my life I, live t...2021-10-191h 21

Balm in Gilead43 – Mars Hill Music: Initial Thoughts and a Personal Update Psalm 43 Psalm 43 Follow Up How on earth could Bryan not like King’s Kaleidoscope?Grant: Newsboy’s Clean is pretty good. Their song STAND sounds like 90’s Phillips, Craig, and DeanFaithful listener to the show Spencer Parsons explains a bit more about the Proverbs tracks What We’re Listening To Justin Fernando Ortega – “Our Great God” from Storm AlbumMelody for “Thy Way, Not Mine, O Lord” by HoraceEmu Music – “We Are One” and “Who is Like You“Spencer’s EDM (See the Slack) Bryan Not so much listening to all of this as it...2021-10-0552 min

Balm in Gilead42 – Balmcast 2.0: Discussion of CCM News and What’s Next for the Balm in Gilead Psalm 42 What We’ve Been Listening To Grant New Newsboys song Clean. Top artist: Crown & CovenantOthers of note: Adam Young TitanicOla W Jansson album All The Things You AreLeeland’s Opposite Way albumMatthew David Montgomery Fingerstyle HymnsAnd also, there are a ton of good Psalm 42 songs out there. So I made a playlist. Bryan Ghost ShipCitizens and SaintsKings KaleidoscopeThe Modern PostThe Sing Team Surviving the Game – SkilletDonda – Kanye Justin The MattsThe Trails ChurchThe SiW Playlist CCM News Top 100 (Donda, Donda)Not Lauren Daigle’s “You Say” (132 weeks at Number 1, last wa...2021-09-211h 16

Balm in Gilead41 – Not What My Hands Have Done: Understanding Excellence in the Craft of Lyrics and Music Psalm Psalm 41 Feedback We really enjoyed our Summer Interview Series with Kyle Thompson, Philip Moyer, Renee Emerson, Cody Curtis, and Henry Haffner. Unfortunately, Jesse Roberts could not make it onto this episode due to Covid, which oddly enough is why Justin couldn’t make it onto this episode either! So please keep the Rea and Roberts families in your prayers for a swift and full recovery, especially knowing there are little ones and very little ones in those households.We have really enjoyed having Justin on for season 3, and we have no plans to bo...2021-08-311h 38

Balm in Gilead40 – God Moves in a Mysterious Way: Henry Haffner interview Psalm 40 Introduction Henry Haffner is a violist, violinist, music director, composer, and educator at Parish Presbyterian Church in Franklin, TN where he leads worship. He also is the principal violist for the Lexington Philharmonic and has performed and given masterclasses throughout the South and Midwest. He appears on recordings by Nathan Clark George, Jim Daneker, Paul Cardall, and Michael W. Smith in addition to his own albums Clovercroft and Southern Psalms. Music Recommendations Do you have any song recommendations for personal listening and/or church use?Nathan Clark George – Rise and WorshipGregory Wi...2021-08-101h 35

Balm in Gilead39 – Nothing But the Blood of Jesus: Interview with Cody Curtis of Psallos Psalm 39 Introducing Cody Curtis of Psallos Cody Curtis is the writer and composer for the musical group Psallos and professor of music at Union University. He joins us to discuss his goal of putting the Epistles to music. So far, that includes Romans, Hebrews, Jude, and coming soon, Phillipians. Cody’s Music Recommendations Personal listeningClassic RockThe BeatlesPink FloydAbigail WashburnThe Arcadian WildClaude DebussyIgor StravinskySinging in churchHymnsIt is WellGetty’s In Christ AloneThe Perfect Wisdom of the LordYet Not I, But Christ In Me Links Are the Songs in the Wrong Orde...2021-07-271h 17

Balm in Gilead38 – All Things Bright and Beautiful: Interview with Poet Renee Emerson Psalm 38 Meet our Guest, Renee Emerson This week, we welcome Renee Emerson, poet and author to talk about poetry and beauty. We discuss how this connects into how a poet looks at the Psalms and what we can learn from them. Renee has several published works including Threshing Floor and Keeping Me Still, and the forthcoming poetry work, Church Ladies in the spring of 2022. She will soon expand into middle-grade fiction with Why Shep Miller Must Learn to Ride a Bike. Some favorite music is: The Balm in Gilead Psalms...2021-07-1353 min

Balm in Gilead37 – Lead On O King Eternal: Interview with Phillip Moyer of My Soul Among Lions Psalm 37 Interview with Philip Moyer of My Soul Among Lions The MSAL storyStarted making hymns https://Songbook.warhornmedia.comRealized that the Psalms were the missing componentBring back the songbook/prayerbook of God’s peopleSongs of Deliverance, Especially the Song of Moses“Dedicated to restoring the Book of Psalms to its place in Christian worship.”Who do you all listen to?Nothing while working on a projectExploratoryCitizens and Saints, album: Citizens Sovereign Grace, He is our GodGettysShane and Shane – Hymns LiveFavorite song(s) in churchHis Final Word – The Good Shepherd BandHis Mercy is MoreCity Alight – yet not I, Christ is m...2021-06-301h 29

Balm in GileadPower in the Blood Psalm 36 Kyle Thompson introduction Podcast host at Undaunted.Life. The Psalm that has been most meaningful to him is Psalm 34, especially verse 10. Music recommendations ConvictionsFor TodayImpending Doom Favorite song(s) in church O Come O Come EmmanuelBlessed AssurancePower in the BloodShane and Shane, Psalm 46 Links from the Show Undaunted.Life podcast on worship Episode 176. Most popular Undaunted.Life Episode 4 which describes a bit of Kyle’s backstory. A Message of Strength, Faith and Love – OKC Thunder Asst. Coach’s wife killed by drunk driver...2021-06-1638 min

Balm in Gilead35 – Rejoice the Lord is King: Understanding Objective Beauty, Accessibility, Memorability, and Appropriate Emotion Psalm 35 Sponsored by DAWdio Who are we listening to Bryan As Isaac, Exodus projectThief to King, Oh Great High PriestPBH, Foreign Madex Worship Is Our Weapon (Spontaneous), Sean Feuchtx Praise is a Weapon, Mark & Sarah Tillmanx Psalm 151, J Lind Grant More Henry Haffner (YouTube channel)Poor Bishop Hooper (Instrumentals)Nathan Drake (Reawaken Hymns)Marcus Warner Justin Norton Hall Band (Morning by Morning Album) (The Church’s One Foundation)My Soul Among Lions (still and forever)21 Songs 2021 SiW The Great Awokening Kevin Max For al...2021-06-011h 40

Balm in GileadFor the Beauty of the Earth Psalm 34 What We’re Listening To Poor Bishop Hooper: Just finished Book 2 of the Psalms.JUDAH New AlbumSwitchfoot New Single “i need you (to be wrong)”Thief to KingEllie HolcombCaroline CobbCorner RoomPsallos Top Songs on CCLI Great Are You Lord by All Sons & DaughtersBattle Belongs by Phil WickhamReckless Love by Cory Asbury. Reckless Love: The Catechism Raise A Hallelujah by Bethel Music, Jonathan David, & Melissa Helser If Songs Could Preach: Raise a HallelujahHow Great Thou Art by Stuart Wesley & Keene HineCornerstone by Hillsong WorshipO Come To The Altar by Elevation WorshipRevelation Song by Jennie Lee Rid...2021-05-181h 23

Balm in GileadHow Excellent in All the Earth Psalm 33 Follow up Apologies for the delay in last episode. I had some major technical issues as my iPad stopped exporting audio (and I had to export the audio manually by playing the audio from my iPad into another computer which lowered the audio quality as well). We are not transitioning to a triweekly podcast, but there may be some delays as I am using borrowed equipment. I met a gentleman named Dave at church after we recorded our last episode. We were chatting about random stuff and the topic of podcasts came...2021-05-041h 10

Balm in Gilead(Bonus Content) Song vs. The Same Song Jon Foreman wrote a song based on Psalm 51 that is beautiful. The instrumentation is very somber, and while it has a lot of moving pieces, functions in a way that really points to the words being sung. The Modern Post covered this song and while it is very excellent musically, the focus is much more on the instrumentation and vocal style than the actual words. This may just be the hindsight talking, but I think it might be an early evidence of priority for Dustin. White As Snow White As Snow – song by Jon...2021-04-2708 min

Balm in Gilead(Bonus Content) Community Deconstruction Quick, interesting discussion regarding similarities in deconstruction stories. And some podcast recommendations. Podcast Recos RestlessThe Alisa Childers PodcastCooper Stuff Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on our Discord and let us know what you’re thinking. If email is more your thing, write to us at thereis balmcast com. Thanks again and we’ll see you next time, Lord willing. 2021-04-2302 min

Balm in GileadEarth Has No Sorrows Psalm Psalm 32 Listen to the Episode Ice Breaker Review of Jon Foreman’s Departures album I would classify this album as a Type 2.5 album. Many of the songs are solidly Type 3, but there are Type 2 and at least one song I would classify as a “personal” Type 1 (not meant for congregational worship) Lament: Jesus I Have My Doubts. Before we can fully dive into that song, however, it is important to consider the entire context of that song. This album is a concept album about the year 2020 and ho...2021-04-201h 20

Balm in GileadThy Works Not Mine O Christ Psalm Psalm 32 Special Guest Justin Rea Check out what he’s been up to: If Songs Could Preach PodcastSound In Worship Music recommendations? Artists are all Spotify linksThe Corner RoomMatt Boswell & Matt PapaMy Soul Among LionsNorton Hall BandJoe DeeganAnother SonBrian SauveFavorite song(s) in church?Psalm 150 (Gettys and Boswell)A Mighty FortressQuestions about current personal projectAbout JustinIf Songs Could PreachSound in WorshipAny cool secret online band projects?Questionnaire overview – Questions for Christian Music Discernment Also note Justin’s blog posts on the same topic: Music Notes | Blog – How to Choose a Solid Worship...2021-03-271h 40

Balm in GileadAs the Deer Psalm Psalm 30 Welcome to the Show Your intrepid hosts start off by discussing our recent appearance on Presbycast and how much we loved it. We also get an update from Bryan’s church travels and find out what he makes of the OPC. Song v. Song: Waterfall v. Satisfied in You Waterfall By Chris Tomlin Verse 1 Oh God, my God I seek You I wanna move when You move You're more than I could long for I thirst for You Chorus You're an ocean to my so...2021-03-021h 13

Balm in GileadLet All With Heart and Voice and Occasional Unorthodox Theology: Part 2, Instruments of Instrumentation Another bonus segment from our discussion in episode 29. We start, but do not go to deep into instruments in worship. Allowed? Not? Things to think about. Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on our Discord and let us know what you’re thinking. If email is more your thing, write to us at thereis balmcast com. Thanks again and we’ll see you next time, Lord...2021-02-2711 min

Balm in GileadLet All With Heart and Voice and Occasional Unorthodox Theology: Part 1 What about Watts? Part 1 of some bonus content from our last show. Here, we go on a bit of a journey through discussing what we each think about how writers’ beliefs ought to affect the singing of their songs. Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on our Discord and let us know what you’re thinking. If email is more your thing, write to us at thereis balmcast com...2021-02-2610 min

Balm in GileadLet All With Heart And Voice Psalm 29 Follow up Grant was talking with one of the guys over at Presbycast about our show and he said that he was wary about using the Psalms as a model. I have been thinking about what he said and I want to make a clarification. I talked about how the Psalms are Scripture, poetry, and lyrics; but we can only use the Psalms as a model as far as poetry and lyrics go. However, we cannot forget that the Psalms are Scripture, and we cannot emulate that. For example, Psalm 13...2021-02-161h 34

Balm in GileadRock of Ages Cleft for Me Psalm 28 Special Guest Poor Bishop Hooper This week, we have Poor Bishop Hooper in the virtual studio to talk about their music and especially their latest project, EveryPsalm. Both hailing from small towns in central Kansas, we began writing, recording, and performing together after our marriage in 2013. What began as a duo, weaving together a patchwork of melodies atop an upright bass and a guitar, has since blossomed into numerous, multi-faceted expressions of the technicolor story we call life. Though we still often perform classic covers and simple tunes in simple places, we’ve...2021-02-021h 13

Balm in Gilead27 – Every Kindred, Every Race: Understanding the Psalms as Scripture, as Poetry, and as Lyrics Psalm 27 Psalms as Scripture When translating the Psalms as Scripture, there are two major schools of thought: word for word translation or line by line translation. Generally speaking, word for word translation is a better tactic for ensuring what we have is what was intended. Line by line translations tend to misinterpret plays on words or double meanings. Where word for word can fail is in colloquial expressions or culture specific metaphors and imagery. Most Bible translations use a primarily word for word with some phrase by phrase when necessary. Since the Psalms...2021-01-121h 38

Balm in GileadCome and Worship Psalm Psalm 26 Main Topic We wrap up our discussion of the Psalm model with three concepts: Petition, Supplication, and Call to Action. Petition To petition someone is to see that person as higher, superior to you, who you nonetheless ask for something from. We mention a couple Psalms that relate to this concept. Psalm 6Psalm 17:6Psalm 102:2Psalm 9:13 Supplication Supplication is very similar to Petition, but perhaps with a bit more pleading to it. In Psalms where the Psalmist displays supplication, he is typically begging God...2020-12-291h 12

Balm in Gilead25 – O Come Let Us Adore Him: Understanding Adoration, Blessing, and Thanksgiving as Parts of Genuine Praise Psalm Psalm 25 Follow Up The Lightest Form of Flogging had another episode further discussing discussions we have discussed on this very show. Check out The Podfather, ep. 119. You Say…. is no longer even in the top 50. Crazy. Icebreaker We open by sharing our year in listening to music. On Spotify at least. Let’s see if you can find any themes. Bryan’s Playlist Grant’s Playlist Main Topic: Adoration, Blessing, and Thanksgiving Adoration The first commandment implies...2020-12-151h 32

Balm in Gilead24.1 – Ponder AgainHey! You found it! Here is the bonus episode of all the great conversation that didn’t make it into the original episode.2020-11-3012 min

Balm in Gilead24 – Ponder Anew What the Almighty Can Do: Interview with Jim of The Lightest Form of Flogging Podcast Psalm Psalm 24 Hey Show This week we welcome the inimitable host of the popular Lightest Form of Flogging podcast to talk about how we have changed in our beliefs about worship over the years. Jim helps us understand what flogging in any form has to do with podcasting. That settled, we move on to more substantive topics like Jim’s top music recommendations and favorite songs to sing in church. Jim’s Music Recommendations Listening to a lot of ambient music lately as it helps him focus at workHe is digg...2020-11-301h 41

Balm in GileadPraise God From Whom All Blessings Flow Psalm 23 Follow up In case you didn’t catch it, we have a new Bomb of Galahad satire article up.Lauren Daigle’s song You Say is still #1Quick update to the Psalm model for writing worship music: The Psalm Model—Does the song follow the model of acceptable worship found in the Psalms?Lament—Does the song address God as God, bring a legitimate grievance to God rooted in the consequences of sin, and rest in the promises of God? Main Topic: Praise Psalms CCM is dominated with songs of praise, but that doe...2020-11-161h 28

Balm in GileadHis Grace Much More Aboundeth - Bonus Episode Revelation 21:1-4 Just a heads up, this is a bonus episode meant to be heard after episode 22. In episode 22 we laid down a foundation on lament that we will refer back to as we review these songs. We are going to review 5 songs: a Psalm Model song and a Psalm Paraphrase song from “Lamentations” by Bifrost Arts, a Psalm Model song and a Psalm Paraphrase song from “Daughter Zion’s Woe” by Cardiphonia, and “Thy Will”, a Psalm Model song by Hilary Scott and the Scott Family Band. Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podc...2020-11-0242 min

Balm in GileadThe Voice of Lamentation Psalm 22 Pattern of the Laments Address God as GodBring your legitimate grievance to GodRest in the promises of God Structure of the Laments In the book “How to Read the Psalms” by Tremper Longman III, he goes a bit more in depth into the lament structure. Not all of these are always together, but often are. InvocationPlea to God for helpComplaintsConfession of sin or an assertion of innocenceCurse of enemies (imprecation)Confidence in God’s responseHymn or blessing Types of Lament Psalms The lament is primarily defined from the mood...2020-10-201h 29

Balm in GileadI Will Sing of My Redeemer Psalm 21 Updates here at the Balmcast.com. Check out the new Resources section. The Icebreaker Newsboys and Switchfoot. Which host will reign supreme and guess the lyrics of their favorite band? It’s Bryan. Obviously. What is the Psalm Model? We have talked about the Psalm Model as a way to shape writing worship music (Type 1). The Psalms contain: Ancient Near Eastern poetrySongs written for corporate worshipSongs written by individualsSongs of praise and lamentationSongs of thanksgiving and petitionSongs about the future work of ChristSongs reflecting the Truth of Sc...2020-10-051h 22

Balm in GileadMine Was The Transgression We’re back! Psalm of the Week Psalm 20 Main Topic: Songs, Politics, and Identity Page CXVI. Their album All and the song All Things New, and Great is Thy Faithfulness. The Porter’s Gate and their album Justice Songs, including the track We Will Make No Peace with Oppression. Also, the album Lament Songs with the track Wake Up, Jesus which references Mark 4. We also talk about the track O Sacred Neck Now Wounded. Links Mentioned On BLM, see Just Thinking’s podcast episode 102: EP # 102 | Black Lives...2020-09-211h 13

Balm in GileadHallelujah, What a Savior! Psalm 19 What We’re Listening To Bryan: Covers by Switchfoot Grant: The Corner Room Psalms 120-134 playlist MLB Security Unable To Tackle Virtual Streaker (Babylon Bee) Main Topic – Song Comparison Raise a Hallelujah – Bethel Bethel cures racism with witchcraft? Raise a Hallelujah (Studio Version) by Bethel Music, Jonathan David Helser, Melissa Helser Worchicken version: Raise a Hallelujah – The Worshicken / Bethel Music 2-year-old’s ‘miracle’ healing sparked worship anthem: ‘We believe in the power of praise’Three-Year-Old Jaxon Taylor Inspired New Bethel...2020-08-051h 26

Balm in GileadGlory and Honor, Praise, Adoration Psalm 18 Follow Up Grant had asked Bryan last episode why 150 songs was not enough. Bryan had actually said that 150 songs were enough. Either way, he never answered the question. Until now, and you won’t believe reason #5! Intro Some podcasts play games. But not us! We tackle an in-person feedback from one of our listeners on singability and understandability as important for worship music. Check out Episode 4: Love Lifted Even Me, our “Hard Love” episode.Also, a little bit of fun, Babylon Bee: Bible Experts Determine Goliath Died of COVID-19 We also m...2020-07-141h 37

Balm in GileadJesus Shines Purer On this episode of the Balm in Gilead podcast… Psalm 17 Follow-up A quick apology to one of our favorite listeners and another listener writes in to speak about the difference between beauty and excellence resulting in some modifications to our system. Also, Bryan talks more about beauty and excellence while Grant adds some ironically inane comments. Main Topic A continuation of last episode—4 more points/thoughts about beauty and excellence and a little bit of discussion about whether or not we’re to sing harmony, the Psalms, and with or wit...2020-06-291h 37

Balm in GileadThou My Soul’s Glory, Joy, and Crown Psalm 16 Follow up A couple points of follow up. To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. – Romans 1:7 (not Romans 1:1) “Oh brother or sister, God calls us to worship, but in many instances we are an entertainment just running a poor second to the theaters. That is where we are, even in the evangelical churches, and I don’t mind telling you that most of the people we say we are try...2020-06-161h 45

Balm in GileadShe Ever Shall Prevail We start out with a new segment before diving into discussing the news about the frontman for Hawk Nelson leaving his idea of Christianity and the Supreme Court’s recent decision to continue restricting churches from meeting because they see them as entertainment. Psalm 15 The Bomb of Galahad Cyberterrorists Hacked into Chick-fil-A’s Radio, Changing the CCM Muzak to Popular Secular Love Songs Main Topics Christian band responds to its lead singer saying he no longer believes in God Supreme Court rejects challenge to limits on church serv...2020-06-021h 39

Balm in GileadJesus Paid it All Psalm 14 But first Gilead Sciences – Open Letter from Chairman and CEO Daniel O’Day. The Meat of It A church pays money, called royalties, to a song’s writer(s) through their CCLI license. The “Royalties Argument” says that a song’s author matters, despite a song’s content, as long as the song is not in the public domain. By singing Bethel, Elevation, and Hillsong music, a church is supporting their activities both through money and a tacit endorsement of the church and it’s teachings through the credit. This Wretched...2020-05-181h 26

Balm in Gilead13 – Jesus I Come to Thee: Jeremy Riddle Escaping Bethel Church and NAR Basics Recently, Christian worship music leader Jeremy Riddle posted: “I find myself increasingly troubled when I look at western Christian culture and see such a startling lack of representation or instruction on VITAL teachings in scripture; particularly the passages that warn and admonish.” Jeremy Riddle’s Facebook profile Bryan and Grant discuss why this is so significant and Jeremy Riddle’s theological background rooted in Bethel church and New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) theology. We discuss what NAR theology is, why it’s dangerous, and how to recognize it. But First… The Worship Song Song 2020-04-281h 21

Balm in GileadHallelujah! Christ Arose! Psalm of the Week – Psalm 12 Intro Starting things off, we briefly discuss two fairly popular songs and ask some questions of the lyrics. Through Your Eyes You love me even when I fall apartI can’t explain itThat’s just who you areDon’t want perfectionYou just want my heartBritt Nicole 1 Peter 1:14 As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, 15 but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy...2020-04-131h 18

Balm in GileadOnly Thou Art Holy 1 Chronicles 29:10-13 Your hosts discuss the second half of Type 2 songs (those that are fun to listen to and have Christian themes) that are too often thought of as Type 1 songs (Songs suitable for worship). Songs Discussed Song links to Song.link Fear Is a LiarYou Got ThisNot TodayGood GraceHold MeWe also briefly mention So Will I, Stand in Your Love, Raise a Hallelujah, and Up AgainCheck out the Spotify Playlist Show Links Worship Leader Under Investigation For Not Playing ‘Oceans.’ – The Babylon BeeThe Lightest Form of Flogging Ep. 35 – Where Jim does...2020-04-011h 37

Balm in GileadThough the darkness hide Thee This is part 1 of a two part study of 12 Type 1 songs (that is usually sung in worship) that really ought to be more Type 2 (that is songs with Christian themes, but not suitable for worship). Psalm 11 On Fear Fear is legitimate. There are real things that are reasonable to fear. Ultimately, we need not fear anything because God is sovereign, but we are fallen and we do fear. I plan on doing an episode on fear in the future, but I wanted to take some time and briefly talk about a real concern...2020-03-241h 47

Balm in GileadJesus, Jesus, Precious Jesus Psalm 10 This week, your hosts open by talking about the top 10 streamed Christian songs that Spotify put out a little bit ago. Then we dive into our main topic—discussing how Jesus is Prophet, Priest, and King. To show this, we read a lot of Scripture. Top 10 Christian Songs Streamed on Spotify (source: Disrn) “You Say” – Lauren Daigle“Reckless Love” – Cory Asbury“Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” – Hillsong UNITED“O Come to the Altar (Live)” – Elevation Worship“So Will I (100 Billion X)” – Hillsong UNITED“Rescue” – Lauren Daigle“Who You Say I Am – Live” – Hillsong Worship“Look Up Child” – Lauren Daigle“Do It A...2020-03-111h 38

Balm in GileadMy Sin, Not in Part, but the Whole: Sin, Atonement, and Sacrifice Psalm 9 Songs, generally, should say the word “sin.” If it doesn’t it should at least talk about sin in Biblical terminology. If you don’t acknowledge sin, it leaves out the reason for the gospel. While more songs should talk about sin, not every one needs to. Without acknowledging sin, we cannot worship. Quote from C.J. Mahaney (who quotes John Stott), used by Shai Linne at the end of his song “Were You There” on his album “The Atonement”. “‘Were you there when they crucified my Lord,’ the old negro spiritual asks...2020-02-241h 26

Balm in GileadThe act of singing: I sing the mighty power of God Bryan and Grant start by reviewing two collaborations that pair artists that are a bit off with those who are ? Nobody by Casting Crowns ft Matthew WestEcho by Elevation Worship ft Tauren Wells Main topic Singing is holisticsinging takes mental effortsinging takes physical effortsinging takes creative effortsinging takes emotional effort Bible Passages Exodus 15 – song after Red Sea crossingDeut 32 – entering promised land2 Sam 6 – return of the Ark1 Chron 15 – instituting tabernacle musicians1 Chron 29 – dedication of the templeIsaiah 6 – temple throne room2 Chron 29 – rededication of the templeEzra 3 – rebuilding of the templeRev 5 – heavenly throne roomZeph 3:17 – God sings over us. Other Links...2020-02-111h 29

Balm in Gilead07 – Gratefully Sing His Wonderful Love: Worshipping God with All of Your Heart, Soul, Mind, and Strength Intro KJV Song 5:4 and direct translation.Psalm 119:11Deuteronomy 6:5Mark 12:30 Worship is Holistic The Shema – Deuteronomy 6The Greatest Commandment – Mark 12The Woman at the Well – John 4Living Sacrifices – Romans 12 Four vehicles of worship We can worship God with our thoughts, with our deeds, with our attitudes, and with our devotion. There is a complex overlapping of these vehicles (much like the overlapping of red, green, and blue light to create all possible colors of light). All worship practices originate from heart, soul, mind, and strength. However, when any of these vehicles is used inten...2020-01-201h 44

Balm in Gilead06 – O For A Thousand Tongues To Sing: Liturgical Categories for Using Music in Church Liturgy—your church has one whether you know about it or not. This week we discuss liturgy and how the Psalms specifically set up what your intrepid hosts believe to be a good one. Song of preparation* Call to worship Song of adoration Confession of sin Assurance of pardon Confession of lament Assurance of comfort Profession of faith Offering of thanksgiving Song of supplication Preparation of the word Preparation of the table Song of r...2020-01-0658 min

Balm in GileadSnow Fall Gentle This week, Bryan shares the song he wrote Snow Fall Gentle after losing his daughter Kit to a congenital heart defect. Kathleen “Kit” Felicity EmersonMay 22, 2019 – November 9, 2019 The day we learned she had a congenital heart defect, it snowed.The day we buried her, it snowed.The day I wrote this song, it snowed. Verse 1I watch the snow fall gentle onThe empty street belowMy arms are cold and empty nowThat she is gone, and while I know There is a time to laugh a time...2019-12-2303 min

Balm in Gilead05 – Lift up Your Voice and With Us Sing: The Five Types of Songs Written by Men Psalm Reading: Psalm 5 The kids ruined my 2019 playlist, but here it is anyway. Our main topic is working through 5 (actually 6) categories of songs from the point of what is appropriate for church worship. Without further ado, here is the official list. Type 0: The Psalms. Always appropriate for church use, no question.Type 1: Songs meant for congregational worshipType 2: Songs with explicitly Christian contentType 3: Songs from inside the Christian worldview without explicitly Christian contentType 4: Songs from outside the Christian worldview that still address issues like the fallen condition...2019-12-091h 25

Balm in Gilead(Special Episode) In Memorium This week is a special episode not like our others. We take a moment to mourn the loss of Bryan’s daughter Kit. Links Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7ChOLzfRuZcKRqXxYL3d9H 2019-12-0235 min

Balm in Gilead04 – Love Lifted Even Me: Review of “Hard Love” by needtobreathe and “Alive” by Big Daddy Weave This is the Hard Love episode. We’re not fans, but we bring it up to show the difference between Christian music and Christian-sounding music. Send your Love/Hate mail to thereis at balmcast.com Links I Surrender Some | The Babylon Bee https://babylonbee.com/news/hymnals-updated-surrender-lyricGrace Gracefully Graces Me (have you watched this yet?) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cst1YYQZwsMProgressive Evangelical Leaders Meet To Affirm Doctrine Of ‘Sola Feels’ | The Babylon Bee – https://babylonbee.com/news/progressive-evangelical-leaders-meet-affirm-doctrine-sola-feelsSongFacts background story to Hard Love by Needtobreathe – https://www.songfacts.com/facts/needtobreathe/hard-loveBehind the Song – “Alive” by Big Da...2019-11-261h 55

Balm in Gilead(Bonus Episode) Jesus is King, Beyoncé is Not In our never-ending quest to be relevant, we present to you another bonus episode. Join us on Slack! – http://slack.techreformation.com Grace Gracefully Graces Me – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cst1YYQZwsM 2019-11-1848 min

Balm in Gilead03 – All Other Ground is Sinking Sand: Six Categories for Discerning Christian Music This week on Balm in Gilead:Heart, Soul, Mind, Strength; Spirit and Truth; A Living Sacrifice. What makes up a good worship song? What characteristics might you look for? Bryan and Grant break down 6 categories of music that make it a good one for worship. The categories are: 1. Law and Gospel2. Scripture3. Beauty4. Excellence5. Truth6. Action We’ll come back to these categories often as a way to view songs. Come discuss on the TechReformation Slack: https://slack.techreformation.com Show Links Grace Gracefully Graces Me – https://www...2019-11-111h 35

Balm in Gilead(Bonus Episode) What a Beautiful Fame: A Conversation on Publicly Walking Away from the Faith This is our off week, but we had so much to say, we cut a bonus episode all about some old news that was newer when we recorded. So here we are. Show Links Grace Gracefully Graces Me: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cst1YYQZwsMChristmas Songs by Bad Religion: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6M2YAafNLwBs0DrlwkyCNVJohn Cooper’s open letter: https://www.facebook.com/2850181515207762/posts/2899206276971952?s=558002774&sfns=moJen Hatmaker and the Power of De-conversion Stories by Michael Kruger, published on the Gospel Coalition: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/jen-hatmaker-power-deconversion-storiesChristian Artist Renounces Faith Now That Je...2019-11-0455 min

Balm in Gilead02 – How Firm a Foundation: An Introduction to the Regulative Principle of Worship Psalm 2 This week, Bryan and Grant discuss the foundational roots from which they assess worship songs. This includes a brief discussion of the Regulative Principle of Worship (RPW) cf. Westminster Confession ch. 21. Show Links Join us on Tech Reformation’s Slack: http://slack.techreformation.com/ Email us: thereis@balmcast.com Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjoy hearing from you, so join us on ou...2019-10-281h 31

Balm in Gilead01 – This Is My Story, This Is My Song: This is the Balm in Gilead Podcast Introducing the Balm in Gilead podcast Hello, this is Bryan and Grant and together we make up the Balm in Gilead podcast. In our first episode, we introduce ourselves, tell why we’re making a podcast about Christian and worship music, and what’s led us to this point. Talk with us on Slack! Join us on TechReformation: http://slack.techreformation.com/ Thanks for listening The Balm of Gilead podcast is a member of the Tech Reformation family of podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please share it with others. We enjo...2019-10-141h 31