Shows
Church TheologyThe Athanasian Creed (with Brandon Smith)The Athanasian Creed famously confesses, “We worship one God in Trinity, and Trinity in Unity; Neither confounding the Persons nor dividing the substance." But what exactly does this mean that God is one and yet three persons? And why is The Athanasian Creed so concerned about the doctrine of the Trinity as it relates to our salvation? In this episodes Kirk is joined by Brandon Smith to discuss these questions and more!
(We apologize for the poor quality audio on Kirk's end. His computer was experiencing a technical problem during the recording which affected the audio.)2024-08-0559 minChurch TheologyThe Chalcedonian Definition (with Stephen Wellum)Delegates from throughout the ecumenical (universal or "catholic") church met in Chalcedon in 451 AD to address the emergence of certain heresies surrounding the person and nature of Christ. Some were teaching that Jesus merely took on the material aspects of a human body (Apollinarianism). Others so distinguished Jesus' humanity and divinity that they conceived of each as involving a distinct person (Nestorianism). Finally, some so emphasized Christ's unity that they spoke of his divinity blending with his humanity to form a new mixed nature (Eutychianism or Monophysitism). The Council of Chalcedon thus responded to these errors, producing a confession of...2024-04-151h 14Church TheologyThe Nicene Creed (with Matthew Barrett)What was is The Nicene Creed and why does it matter? In this episode, Dr. Matthew Barrett joins Kirk to discuss the historical circumstances that gave rise to the creed as well as some of its central confessions. They discuss why it matters that Jesus is "of the same substance with the Father" and "eternally begotten" but "not made." The Nicene Creed gives us categories by which to understand God's self-revelation in scripture as it finds its center in the saving work of Christ.2024-04-021h 01Church TheologyThe Theology of the EFCA (with Greg Strand)What does the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA) believe? What are the theological convictions that unite this broad collection of churches? In this episode, Kirk is joined by Greg Strand, chair of the EFCA's Spiritual Heritage Committee, to discuss and exposit the EFCA's Statement of Faith. As we hope you'll see, this Statement of Faith is an articulation of nothing less than the core elements of gospel itself.2023-11-211h 09Church TheologyOur Contemporary Knowledge Crisis (with Bonnie Kristian)Kirk sits down with Bonnie Kristian to discuss her latest book, Untrustworthy: The Knowledge Crisis Breaking Our Brains, Polluting Our Politics, and Corrupting Christian Community. They delve into the current erosion of knowledge, exploring its consequences on society, the church, and our relationships. Explore ways we can rebuild stability in our communities and lives amidst a world where knowledge feels increasingly elusive and society increasingly fractured.2023-07-281h 10Church TheologyDivorce & Remarriage (with Andy Naselli)Jesus taught that divorce "from the beginning ... was not so" and that those who divorce commit adultery. Yet he also added, "except for sexual immorality" (Mt 5:31-32; 19:3-9). And Paul says believers are "not bound" if their unbelieving spouse leaves them (1 Cor 7:15). These texts are source of much debate. And yet their implications are extremely pressing and practical for many. What does the Bible have to say about divorce, and if divorce any possibility of remarriage thereafter? New Testament scholar Andy Naselli joins Kirk to discuss these matters.2023-06-1456 minChurch TheologyThe Pastoral Ministry of Richard Baxter (with Tim Cooper)Richard Baxter was a 17th-century English Puritan pastor best known for his rigorous and methodical approach to pastoral care. What can we today learn from Baxter about pastoring, what it looks like to be pastored, and the nature of the Christian life experienced within the church. Church history professor, Tim Cooper, joins Kirk to talk about the legacy of Baxter for the church today.2023-06-0758 minChurch TheologyWhy Baptism is Required for Church Membership (with Bobby Jamieson)Why does our church, and churches like ours, require people to be baptized before we will admit them as members of our church? Today Kirk is joined by Bobby Jamieson, associate pastor at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., to discuss the Biblical and theological reason for this practice.2023-06-0141 minChurch TheologyThe History of the EFCA (with David Gustafson)On April 24th, 2023 our church, CrossWay Community Church of Milwaukee will be voted into the EFCA's Forest Lakes District. But what is the EFCA (Evangelical Free Church of America)? And where did it originate? In order to help us better understand the EFCA heritage, Kirk interviewed Dr. David Gustafson who is currently writing a book on the history of the EFCA.2023-03-1759 minChurch TheologyPaul's Theology of Resurrection (with Richard Gaffin)How did Paul think about resurrection, and what role did it play in his overall theological understanding? Kirk sits down for a conversation with retired professor, Dr. Richard B. Gaffin Jr., about Paul's theology of resurrection. We explore questions like, what is the connection between Christ's resurrection and ours? What is the relationship between Christ's resurrection and the ministry of the Spirit in our lives? What does Paul mean when he says that Jesus was "raised for our justification" (Rom 4:25)? And how does Christ's resurrection empower us for our mission as a church?2023-02-281h 04Church TheologyThemes & Theology of Mark's Gospel (with Peter Orr)In this episode, Kirk sits down with New Testament scholar, Dr. Peter Orr, for a conversation on theology and major themes of Mark’s Gospel. We discuss the identity of Jesus, the so-called “Messianic Secret,” the meaning of the cross and discipleship in Mark, the role of the temple in Mark, and much, much more. We hope this conversation helps you better understand the Gospel of Mark, even as you read it for yourself!2023-01-2659 minChurch TheologyTruth Over Tribe: Against Political Tribalism (with Patrick Miller)Have you noticed that you've been more anxious recently? Have political differences put a strain on a relationship with a friend or family member? Has politics caused division in your church? Society is increasingly polarized and tribal. And unfortunately, we as Christians are often not immune, but at times even the worst offenders. In this episode, Patrick Miller, an author of Truth Over Tribe, helps us see the causes of our tribalism to pursue a healthier Christian political engagement.2022-11-091h 04Church TheologyA Christian Case Against Christian Nationalism (with Paul Miller)Talk about "Christian nationalism" is quite the buzz right now. Many are currently decrying it. Some now though are readily embracing the label to champion it. So what exactly is Christian nationalism? And is it something we, as Christians, should be concerned about? Paul Miller answers, "yes," helping us understand why Christian nationalism is both bad for our neighbors and harmful to the church.2022-10-2754 min
Church TheologyHow to Talk about Race (with Isaac Adams)Bring up race and people tense up and dig their heals in. Why is this? Why is talking about race is so difficult, and no less in the church? In this episode, Isaac Adams sits down with Kirk to talk about talking: how can we have better conversations about race? Or even more fundamentally, why do we need to have better conversations about race? Based on Adam's recent book, Talking about Race: Gospel Hope for Hard Conversations (Zondervan, January 2022).2022-04-181h 02Church TheologyThe Storyline of the Hebrew Bible (with Stephen Dempster)Have you ever been reading in the Old Testament and wondered, what does this have to do with the larger story? Or maybe it's never even occurred to you that the Old Testament even has a larger story! Well, in this episode, Kirk sits down with a premier Old Testament scholar, Stephen Dempster, author of the stellar book, Dominion and Dynasty, to talk specifically about the theology and storyline of the Hebrew Bible.2022-03-161h 18Church TheologyExpository Preaching (with Mike Bullmore)What does it mean and look like faithfully to preach the Bible itself rather than use the Bible as a launchpad for our own message? In this episode, Kirk sits down with seasoned pastor Mike Bullmore to talk about what's called "expository preaching" and why it's so important.2022-03-091h 14Church TheologyLafto Kale Heywet Church in Ethiopia (Missionary Profile, Ep. 3)CrossWay Milwaukee has a church-to-church partnership through World Orphans with Lafto Kale Heywet Church in the Lafto region of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. CrossWay's financial support goes towards Lafto's ministry caring for vulnerable families, specifically with widows and orphans. This partnership helps provide food, education, medical care, and economic opportunities as well as open doors for the Gospel. The ultimate goal of the church-to-church partnership is to learn from and encourage one another in the advancement of God’s Kingdom.
Listen in as Kirk connects with Pastor Eyob, and others from Lafto Church, to hear and learn more ab...2022-02-2830 minChurch TheologyDiscerning the Main Claim of a Passage (How to Read the Bible, Ep. 9)Have you ever read a passage from the Bible and wondered, what was the point of all that? Maybe you pick up some themes and ideas here or there from a passage, but you're unsure how it all fits together. Or maybe you've never thought to consider how a passage all fits together. In this episode, Kirk and Dan get back into their series on how to read the Bible, asking, after we've made all of our initial observations on a passage (e.g., tone, context, structure), then what? They talk about the need for understanding a passage's overall...2022-02-2136 minChurch TheologyCultivating Wisdom in the Information Age (with Brett McCracken)Do you ever feel like the constant bombardment of technology and social media is making us dumber, or maybe even more foolish? Or does truth feel ever more elusive to you in an age of increasing options, viral conspiracy theories, and personally curated newsfeeds? How are we to navigate this post-truth world? Brett McCracken joins Kirk for a conversation about his most recent book, The Wisdom Pyramid: Feeding Your Soul in a Post-Truth World. Listen in as Brett gives us guidance on finding wisdom and feeding our souls amidst the information gluttony, perpetual novelty, and "look within" autonomy.2022-02-141h 01Church TheologyNelson Salviano in Brazil (Missionary Profile, Ep. 2)Kirk was able to connect over Zoom with one of CrossWay Milwaukee's missionaries, Nelson Salviano. The Salvianos are located in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. In 2004 Nelson Salviano started a pastoral training program called ESCALE. Through ESCALE Nelson travels throughout Brazil and to remote areas leading seminars that help train existing pastors in their ability to understand and preach God’s Word. In this episode, we get to learn more about Nelson and his family, their ministry, and ways we can be praying for them.2022-02-0739 minChurch TheologyWhy the Church Remains Essential (with Jonathan Leeman)Over the last couple of years, churches have been hit with COVID restrictions, tensions over race, political disagreements, church abuse scandals, and more. This wave has resulted in many a Christian asking, "Is church worth it?" Or as more and more churches adopt things like "online campuses," many are tempted to treat staying home as a permanent, on-par option with the physical gathering. But how would the Bible help us to consider these things? Is the gathered church still essential? Jonathan Leeman joins Kirk in this episode to begin answering these questions, and to discuss the topic of his...2022-01-311h 01Church TheologyThe Need for "Analog Church" in the Digital Age (with Jay Y. Kim)Kirk sits down for an interview with Pastor Jay Y. Kim, author of Analog Church: Why We Need Real People, Places, and Things in the Digital Age. They discuss how the digital age, despite its many advantages and opportunities, also negatively deforms us, and why "analog church" (i.e., real people, places, and things) is needed now as much as ever before.2022-01-1058 minChurch TheologyMelodic Line: Hearing the Message & Aim of Each Book (How to Read the Bible, Ep. 7)Kirk and Dan talk about melodic line. Here we're talking about the overall message of a book that ties the whole and all its parts together. In this episode we talk about what the melodic line is, showing some examples from scripture. And then we talk about how can you go about discerning the melodic line, and what benefits does this yields to your reading of scripture.2021-12-2054 minChurch TheologyHindrances to Prayer, Pt. 2Kirk and Dan sit down from some bonus episodes supplementing the sermon series on prayer. In these two episodes, Kirk and Dan consider additional hindrances we might face in the discipline of prayer, and how we can work to overcome these.
Find Dan's original sermon on The Hindrances to Prayer here.2021-11-2236 minChurch TheologyHindraces to Prayer, Pt. 1Kirk and Dan sit down from some bonus episodes supplementing the sermon series on prayer. In these two episodes, Kirk and Dan consider additional hindrances we might face in the discipline of prayer, and how we can work to overcome these.
Find Dan's original sermon on The Hindrances to Prayer here.2021-11-2234 minChurch TheologyJeff & Meredith in Albania (Missionary Profile, Ep. 1)Kirk was privileged to sit down for a conversation with one of CrossWay Milwaukee's missionaries, Jeff, who serves in Albania. In this episode, we get to learn more about Jeff and his family, how the Lord called them to cross-cultural missions, what their ministry in Albania looks like, and ways we can be praying for them.
Jeff and Meredith received the call to missions while they were members of our church, and while Jeff was serving here as an elder. CrossWay Milwaukee is proud to be their sending church. Jeff and Meredith currently work with local Albanian C...2021-11-181h 17Church TheologyTheir World First: Historical Context (How to Read the Bible, Ep. 3)In this episode, Kirk and Dan explore the importance of reading scripture according to its original, historical context before moving to our own ("Their World First"). How does understanding the historical context of scripture help us read the Bible more faithfully?2021-11-1553 minChurch TheologyBehold, I Am Coming! (Revelation 22:6b-21)Kirk and Dan finish out their series through Revelation with some reflections on the final passage, Revelation 22:6b-21. Finally, the end with some overall observations and takeaways on the book as a whole.2021-10-1255 minChurch TheologyThe New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:9-22:6a)Revelation 21:9-22:6a presents John's vision of the new creation -- God's new Jerusalem, new temple, and new Eden. In this episode, Kirk and Dan walk through some of the overall details of this passage (0:00-46:05). Then Kirk closes the podcast with some application reflections (46:05-1:03:15).2021-09-281h 03Church TheologySecond Death or Second Creation (Revelation 20:11-21:8)In this episode, Dan has Kirk walk us through Revelation 20:11-20:8, the visions of the Great White Throne judgment and the introduction of the new creation.2021-09-221h 09Church TheologyThe Millennium, Pt. 3 (Revelation 20:1-10): New Testament Arguments for AmillennialismIn this series of three episodes, we address the matter of the 1,000-year reign, also known as the millennium, as expressly mentioned in Revelation 20. In so doing, we offer a more detailed case for the interpretation known most popularly as amillennialism.
Finally, in this third episode, we consider other New Testament arguments against a literal, futurist, premillennialist position and in favor of a symbolic, "church-age" interpretation of the millennium.
To access all three episodes in this sequence, as well as the diagrams, see here.2021-09-0843 minChurch TheologyThe Millennium, Pt. 2 (Revelation 20:1-10): Interpretation of Revelation 20:1-10In this series of three episodes, we address the matter of the 1,000-year reign, also known as the millennium, as expressly mentioned in Revelation 20. In so doing, we offer a more detailed case for the interpretation known most popularly as amillennialism.
In this second episode, we look specifically at Revelation 20:1-10 and examine the case for amillennialism from this text itself.
To access all three episodes in this sequence, as well as the diagrams, see here.2021-09-081h 01Church TheologyThe Millennium, Pt. 1 (Revelation 20:1-10): The Four Views on the MillenniumIn this series of three episodes, we address the matter of the 1,000-year reign, also known as the millennium, as expressly mentioned in Revelation 20. In so doing, we offer a more detailed case for the interpretation known most popularly as amillennialism.
In the first episode, we overview the four main positions as it relates to the millennium: (1) dispensational premillennialism, (2) historic (or classic) premillennialism, (3) postmillennialism, and (4) amillennialism.
To access all three episodes in this sequence, as well as the diagrams, see here.2021-09-0853 minChurch TheologyThe Return of the King (Revelation 19:11-21)In this episode, Kirk and Dan walk us through the three scenes of Revelation 19:11-21. This passage zooms in on the return of Christ at his second coming to judge and destroy the two beasts and those who align with them.2021-08-3142 minChurch TheologyFallen, Fallen is Babylon! (Revelation 18:1-19:10)In Revelation 17:1-18, we saw a vision of Babylon, or the Great Prostitute's, judgment. In this episode, Kirk and Dan continue with part 2 of that judgment in Revelation 18:1-19:10. Whereas in chapter 17, the Harlot's judgment was depicted in visionary form, now in 18:1-19:10 we hear a chorus of songs -- both lament and praise -- in response to Babylon's fall.2021-08-2439 minChurch TheologyThe Great Prostitute (Revelation 17:1-18)In this episode, Kirk and Dan walk through the vision of Revelation 17:1-18, depicting the Great Prostitute, or Babylon, who rides on the beast with its seven heads (kings) and ten horns (kings).2021-08-1748 minChurch TheologyThe Bowl Judgments (Revelation 15:5-16:21)In this episode, Kirk walks us through the bowl judgments in Revelation 15:5-16:21. We consider the ways this passage communicates the outpouring of God's righteous vengeance on the oppresses of his people and unrepentant sinful humanity.2021-08-0349 minChurch TheologyThe Cosmic Conflict (Revelation 11:19-15:4)In this episode, Dan joins Kirk to lead us through an overview of the entire section, Revelation 11:19-15:4, on the seven visions ("And I saw..." x7). First, Dan gives us some overview of the section, helping us get our bearings. And then we read through the entire passage with some commentary and drama along the way.2021-07-2746 minChurch TheologyThe Final Harvests & the Exodus Song (Revelation 14:14-15:4)Kirk and Dan tackle the last 3 "and I saw" visions of Revelation 11:19-15:4. These three, along with the two visions of Revelation 14:1-13, unveil to us the "end game," the contrasting final destinies, for those who worship the lamb vs. those who worship the beast. We are empowered for patient endurance as we look forward to the full completion and final manifestation of God's salvation through judgment.2021-07-2041 minChurch TheologyThe Second Beast, the 144,000, and the Declaration of the Three Angels (Rev 13:11-14:14)In this episode, Kirk and Dan cover the second monster and his mark in Revelation 13:11-18, the sealed 144,000 who sing the song of the redeemed in 14:1-5, and the message of the three angels -- a message of doom and reversal for those marked by the monster -- in 14:6-13.2021-07-1744 minChurch TheologyThe Beast (Revelation 13:1-10)In this episode, Dan joins Kirk to break down some of the overall structure of Revelation 12-15 and the role of the key characters in the book of Revelation: the dragon, beast, false prophet, and harlot. After that, they dive into the text of Revelation 13:1-10 to discuss the details of this first beast who rises from the sea.
Passage structure available here.2021-06-221h 10Church TheologySatan Wages War (Revelation 11:19-12:17)In this episode, Dan joins Kirk to talk through Revelation 12, as well as some of our overall approach to handling this section spanning from Revelation 11:19-15:4. We discuss the structure and plot of this section, as well as work through some additional details from the three scenes in chapter 12.2021-06-1557 minChurch TheologyThe Trampled Temple & Two Witnesses (Revelation 10:1-11:18)Revelation 11 is somewhat infamous for its mention of two witnesses who will issue plagues and destroy people with fire from their mouths. In addition, in vv.1-2 we get the mention of a temple and the trampling of its outer court and the "holy city." What is this all referring to? Is it referring to a future, rebuilt temple in Jerusalem, and two literal witnesses in the "end times"? Or is this, as I will argue, symbolism of the church?
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"Where the preaching of repentance, with judgments alone as evidence, had failed (Rev 11:6; cf. R...2021-06-0357 minChurch TheologyThe Trumpet Judgments (Revelation 8:2-9:21)In this episode, Kirk covers some overview material on the trumpet judgments and apocalyptic literature, and then dives into the theme of prayer in the book of Revelation as highlighted in Revelation 8:2-5.2021-05-1844 minChurch TheologyThe Religious Life of Theological Students by Benjamin B. Warfield (Audiobook)In this short book, originally delivered as an oral address in 1911, Princeton theologian and professor Benjamin B. Warfield addresses his seminarians in anticipation of their upcoming theological studies He stresses to them the importance of not divorcing theological study from functional, religious (or what we might call "spiritual") experience.2021-05-0840 minChurch TheologyThe Seal Judgments & God's Sealed People (Revelation 6:1-8:1)In this episode, Kirk and Dan quickly survey and review the seal judgments of chapters 6-7. Then they spend the bulk of the episode answering the question, "Who are the 144,000 from chapter 7:1-8?" arguing that they are symbolic of the church in 7:9ff.2021-05-0447 minChurch TheologyOn Reading Christian Books, Part 2Kirk, Sam, and Matt continue their conversation on reading now by discussing, who or what should we read (selecting books)? And, how should we go about reading (practical tips)?
Book Recommendations2021-04-2541 minChurch TheologyOn Reading Christian Books, Part 1In this next set of episodes, I'm so pleased to have Sam Park and Matt Dohrmann join me for the podcast. Sam and Matt are both members of CrossWay Community Church where I serve. And in this episode we sit down to talk about the habit of reading good books, specifically, why is it important to be reading books?
Book Recommendations2021-04-2538 minChurch TheologyThe Lion is a Lamb (Revelation 5:1-14)Kirk and Dan sit down to talk about some interpretive reminders as we approach the book of Revelation, and then take a look at Revelation 5:1-14 through the lens of various theological categories.2021-04-0652 minChurch TheologyThe Heavenly Throne Room (Revelation 4:1-11)In this episode, Kirk and Dan discuss some additional matters related to the interpretation of Revelation 4. How should we understand the phrase "after this" used twice in verse 1, and what are some of the theological debates / discussions surrounding this phrase? Second, we take a closer look at the twenty elders and the four living creatures. Who or what might they be, and what role do they serve in this passage? Next, we consider briefly the theme of worship across the book. Who do you worship — God or the beast? And lastly, we consider the theme of heaven as God's ve...2021-03-3044 minChurch TheologyTo the Church in Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22)In this episode, Kirk and Dan look at the final message to the seven churches, the message to Laodicea. They discuss the nature of the Laodicean's sin and how we might fight its temptations through the promises of Christ.2021-03-231h 00Church TheologyTo the Church in Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7-13)In this episode, Kirk and Dan talk about Revelation 3:7-13. Some of the things discussed: What do we know about the background to Philadelphia? Does v.10 support the idea of a pre-tribulation rapture? What does it mean for Christ to refer to the Father as "my God"? And finally, we examine the promise in v.9 that those of the "synagogue of Satan" will one day worship Jesus.2021-03-1653 minChurch TheologyTo the Church in Sardis (Revelation 3:1-6)Dan joins Kirk back on the podcast to discuss Revelation 3:1-6. We talk about what was likely going on in the church in Sardis, and what that same sort of sin might look like in our own lives today, as well as how the promises motivate us to "overcome."2021-03-0953 minChurch TheologyTo the Church in Thyatira (Revelation 2:18-29)We continue in our series, looking now at Revelation 2:18-29. We begin by thinking a bit more about the call to "hold fast" to the "[Christ's] works," and then dig a bit deeper into the description of the false teaching as well as the OT background to this promise that we will reign with Christ. Finally, we close by considering some of the practical questions about what it looks like to interact lovingly and winsomely when we face friction with the world on account of faithfulness.2021-03-0251 minChurch TheologyWhy Don't We Practice Lent?It's that time of year when people walk around with ash on their foreheads and eat fish on Fridays. But wait, why don't we practice Lent? Sometimes folks in our church, especially those who may have come from a Roman Catholic or more liturgical protestant tradition, will ask me this question. So I thought I'd sit down and record an answer for them.2021-02-2630 minChurch TheologyTo the Church in Pergamum (Revelation 2:12-17)On Sunday (Feb. 21, 2021) Dan will be preaching on Christ's message to the church in Pergamum in Revelation 2:12-17. So in this episode, in anticipation of that upcoming sermon, we spend time modeling how we might interrogate the passage with questions to try to gain a better understanding of it.2021-02-1937 minChurch TheologyTo the Church in Smyrna (Revelation 2:8-11)Kirk and Dan record some material on their drive to a Charles Simeon Trust workshop. (Be on the lookout for the part when they go through the Starbucks drive-through). In this episode, they talk about Christ's message in Revelation 2:8-11 to the church in Smyrna.2021-02-1837 minChurch Theology"To the One Who Conquers" (Revelation)In this episode, we look at the uses of "conquer," "overcome," or "victory" across John's writings, but especially the book of Revelation. What is the meaning of this call to "conquer"? And how does it shape our understanding of the book and the nature of the Christian life?2021-02-0936 minChurch TheologyTo the Church in Ephesus (Revelation 2:1-7)In this episode, Kirk looks further at Revelation 2:1-7, diving into some additional matters for our consideration as we reflect on its importance for our lives and our understanding of the rest of the book.2021-02-0930 minChurch TheologyA Vision of the Son of Man (Revelation 1:9-20)Dan and Kirk dive deeper into the details of the vision of the son of man in Revelation 1:9-20 to ask, "How does this vision -- and its "big" view of Jesus -- empower us for faithful endurance?"2021-02-0250 minChurch TheologyA Revelation of Jesus Christ (Revelation 1:1-8)In this episode, Kirk and Dan talk about some additional interpretive and theological matters we encounter in Revelation 1:1-8. We consider how this passage introduces some key themes that set the tone for the rest of the book. We ask, what is an Old Testament allusion and how do we go about attending to these in the book of Revelation? Finally, we reflect on the meaning of the passage's message for our every day lives.2021-01-2647 minChurch TheologyReality Unveiled: Empowered for Patient Endurance (Intro to Revelation, Pt. 2)After a long hiatus (thanks COVID...), we're back with a new series of episodes on Revelation. These episodes are intended to supplement our sermon series working through the book of Revelation at CrossWay Community Church. We begin in these first two episodes by discussing some introductory matters to the book.2021-01-2134 minChurch TheologyReality Unveiled: Empowered for Patient Endurance (Intro to Revelation, Pt. 1)After a long hiatus (thanks COVID...), we're back with a new series of episodes on Revelation. These episodes are intended to supplement our sermon series working through the book of Revelation at CrossWay Community Church. We begin in these first two episodes by discussing some introductory matters to the book.2021-01-2143 minChurch TheologyCompassion & Conviction: Faithful Political Engagement (Justin Giboney & Michael Wear of the AND Campaign)Have you ever felt too progressive for conservatives, but too conservative for progressives? Faced with a false "either/or" framing of many issues, Christians today often times can find themselves feeling politically homeless in our current landscape. Justin Giboney and Michael Wear -- and the AND Campaign -- speak to this issue in their call for compassion and conviction, truth and love, concern about moral order and addressing the injustices in our society. Today Justin and Michael join Kirk for a discussion on their newest book, Compassion (&) Convictions: The AND Campaign's Guide to Faithful Civic Engagement. We talk "Why s...2020-08-0650 minChurch Theology"Getting Cancer Was the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me" (Vince Hucek)I sit down with my old high school buddy, and now Leukemia-survivor, to ask what he means when he says that he wishes everyone would have a "successful brush with death" and that "getting cancer was the best thing that ever happened to me."2020-06-261h 06Church TheologyThe Church & Politics (with Jonathan Leeman)In this episode, Kirk sits down with pastor and political theologian Jonathan Leeman to talk Church and politics. They discuss, what is the relationship between church and state? Religion and politics? And how do we love those with whom we disagree politically?2020-06-0347 minChurch TheologyHospitality & the Mission of the Church (Joshua Jipp)In this episode, Kirk sits down with New Testament scholar and professor, Dr. Joshua Jipp, to explore the theme of Biblical hospitality. What is Biblical hospitality? What does Dr. Jipp mean by describing God's saving work in Christ as an act of showing us hospitality? And how should hospitality shape the life of the believer and the life of the church?
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-04-2056 minChurch TheologyThe Translation of Scripture (On Scripture with Mark Ward, Ep. 6)Mark Ward closes out his series with Kirk by talking about the translation of scripture. What all goes into translation? Why are there so many different ones? Are all translations created equal?
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-04-1354 minChurch TheologyThe Transmission of Scripture (On Scripture with Mark Ward, Ep. 5)In this episode, Kirk talks to Mard Ward about the transmission of scripture, i.e., the process of how the Bible was copied, the manuscripts that were produced and collected, and how we have the Bibles we have today.
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-04-0655 minChurch TheologyThe Sufficiency of Scripture (On Scripture with Mark Ward, Ep. 4)Mark Ward joins Kirk again as they continue their discussions on scripture, this time discussing scripture's sufficiency. What does it mean for Scripture to be sufficient? Sufficient for what? And what are the outworkings of believing and holding to this doctrine?
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-301h 00Church TheologyThe Perspicuity of Scripture (On Scripture with Mark Ward, Ep. 3)In this episode, Kirk and Mark Ward unpack the doctrine of scripture's perspicuity--that is, it's clarity. The doctrine of scripture's perspicuity was central to the convictions of the Protestant Reformation; and it's a doctrine that is just as important today in light of contemporary challenges. Not only so, but it provides a wellspring of encouragement for our Christian lives.
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-2357 minChurch TheologyCoronavirus, Missiology (Mission), & Our Unexpected Evangelistic Opportunity (Coronavirus, Ep. 6)In this final (at least as currently planned) episode we consider our unexpected evangelistic opportunity brought on by this moment. May it be that God is preparing hearts and using this unusual situation to advance his gospel across the globe.
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-2218 minChurch TheologyCoronavirus as "Go Time" for the Church: Being Ready to Care for Others (Coronavirus, Ep. 5)In this episode, we look at the church's pedigree of caring for people in crisis and even plagues. What can we learn from this, and scripture, as a model for our own calling in this present moment?
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-2121 minChurch TheologyPandemics as a Gift for Growth? (Coronavirus, Ep. 4)The current pandemic has caused disruption to our normal lives. This can be a great opportunity, however, for us to recalibrate how we live our lives. At the same time, they can become times where we flounder, and rather than growing we actually regress. Could it be that this pandemic though, in some peculiar way, is--at least in some sense--a gift from God for our spiritual growth? How can we avoid "wasting" this moment?
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-2020 minChurch TheologyEcclesiology (Church) in the Midst of a Pandemic (Coronavirus, Ep. 3)As churches move online in the face of Sunday closures, it should cause us to ask, "What is the church in the midst of a pandemic?" Our current circumstances raise questions about what it means to be the church--questions that have always existed, with an underlying theology that's always been at play, but are now being forced into our immediate purview in light of our situation.
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-1920 minChurch TheologyBiblical Reflections on Sickness & Pandemics (Coronavirus, Ep. 2)In today's episode, I offer some Biblical reflections and applications on thinking rightly and responding well to sickness--and more particularly as we seek to apply things to the current Coronavirus pandemic.
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-1826 minChurch TheologyResponding to Health Organizations & Government (Coronavirus, Ep. 1)Today I'm releasing the first episode in what I intend to be a short series dealing with the Coronavirus--pastoral reflections on how to respond Biblically and act Christianly. Today I try to share some wisdom and Biblical reflections on responding specifically to health organizations and governments as they provide instructions to us on fighting this virus.
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-1719 minChurch TheologyThe Authority of Scripture (On Scripture with Mark Ward, Ep. 2)Mard Ward and Kirk Miller continue their discussion on scripture by asking, What does it mean for Scripture to be our authority? And how does it exercise its authority?
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-1653 minChurch TheologyThe Canonicity of Scripture (On Scripture with Mark Ward, Ep. 1)Mard Ward joins Kirk to discuss the topic of canon, "the divinely authorized collection of books that God has given to govern his people" (John Frame). How do we know we have God's Word? Why these books?
This episode is brought to you by Logos Bible Software, with special discounts available to listeners of this podcast.2020-03-0950 minChurch TheologyPastoral Theology & Church Practice in Calvin’s Geneva, Pt. 2 (Scott Manetsch)In this episode, Kirk sits down with professor and well-regarded church historian, Dr. Scott Manetsch, to discuss what church life was like in Reformation-era Geneva under the ministry the John Calvin.2020-03-0231 minChurch TheologyPastoral Theology & Church Practice in Calvin’s Geneva, Pt. 1 (Scott Manetsch)In this episode, Kirk sits down with professor and well-regarded church historian, Dr. Scott Manetsch, to discuss what church life was like in Reformation-era Geneva under the ministry the John Calvin.2020-02-2427 minChurch TheologyUse & Misconceptions of Bible Translations (Bible Translations, Ep. 5)Kirk and Dan close out their series on Bible translations by dispelling some misconceptions about Bible translations, as well as laying out some practical tips for making use of translations in your study of scripture.2020-02-1726 minChurch TheologyTextual Differences in Translations (Bible Translations, Ep. 4)Today Kirk and Dan talk about "Textual Criticism," and how some of the differences that lie behind the various translations actually have to do with different textual bases of what is being translated.2020-02-1035 minChurch TheologyDifferences in Translation Philosophies (Bible Translations, Ep. 3)In this episode, Kirk and Dan illustrate some of the philosophical (or methodological) differences we find in the various translations. They also discuss some of the pros and cons of these differences.2020-02-0329 minChurch TheologyThe Spectrum of Bible Translation Philosophies (Bible Translations, Ep. 2)Kirk and Dan continue their series on Bible translation by looking at the major reason for the differences in our available translations, namely, translation philosophy. We look at the difference between formal and dynamic equivalent methodologies, and where on the spectrum the various popular English translations tend to fall.2020-01-2734 minChurch TheologyIntroduction to Bible Translations (Bible Translations, Ep. 1)Kirk and Dan begin a new series on Bible translations. Today they talk about some introductory matters on Bible translations, as well as why this is an important topic for us to consider and understand.2020-01-2027 minChurch TheologyThe Meaning of Ecclesiastes (Ecclesiastes, Ep. 4)Kirk and Dan conclude their series on Ecclesiastes by examining the meaning of the book as it applies to us today.2019-12-2325 minChurch TheologyThe Message of Ecclesiastes, Pt. 2 (Ecclesiastes, Ep. 3)Kirk and Dan continue their discussion on the message of Ecclesiastes by exploring the book's "above the sun" statements as it gestures towards and ultimately reaches its conclusive instruction for us.2019-12-1625 minChurch TheologyThe Message of Ecclesiastes, Pt. 1 (Ecclesiastes, Ep. 2)In this episode, Dan and Kirk continue their discussion on Ecclesiastes by looking at the message (or main claim, or argument) of the book. They discuss the meaning of "vanity" (hevel), as well as some of the primary themes throughout the book.2019-12-0928 minChurch TheologyThe Method of Ecclesiastes (Ecclesiastes, Ep. 1)Kirk and Dan begin there series on the book of Ecclesiastes. In this episode they look at the method that Ecclesiastes uses to communicate its message, namely how it functions as a unique expression of wisdom literature.2019-11-2544 minChurch TheologyFinding a Book's Overall Message - Case Study: Philippians (How to Read the Bible)Kirk and Dan continue their work on how to find a Biblical book's overall message by looking to the book of Philippians as a test case.2019-11-1843 minChurch TheologyFinding a Book's Overall Message - Tools & Techniques (How to Read the Bible)Kirk and Dan are gearing up to do a short series on Ecclesiastes. But before they do, they wanted to take a step back and ask, "What's the benefit of getting a Biblical book's big picture?" and "How do we do that?"
(This episode and the following will serve as an initial contribution to what will become an ongoing collection of episodes on How to Read the Bible.)2019-11-1146 minChurch TheologyThe Importance of Theology, Pt. 3 (Church Theology, Ep. 7)In this episode, Kirk and Dan conclude their discussion on the importance of doctrine and theology by finishing out talking about the hurdles we face along the way, as well as giving some practical tips and suggestions towards growing your discipline in theological learning.2019-11-0436 minChurch TheologyThe Importance of Theology, Pt. 2 (Church Theology, Ep. 6)Dan and Kirk continue their discussion on the importance of theology in the life of the believer and the life of the church. In this episode they talk about things like "theological triage" (or "dogmatic rank"), the Biblical spirit in which we are to hold to sound doctrine, as well as some initial hurdles we might face along the way.2019-10-2833 minChurch TheologyThe Importance of Theology, Pt. 1 (Church Theology, Ep. 5)In this episode, Kirk and Dan discuss "What is theology and why does it matter? Does it?"2019-10-2136 minChurch TheologyGod's Vision for the Church, Pt. 2 (Church Theology, Ep. 4)Kirk and Dan continue their discussion on God's vision for the church by asking some diagnostic questions that help us consider what it looks like for us to pursue this vision in our own life.2019-10-1441 minChurch TheologyGod's Vision for the Church, Pt. 1 (Church Theology, Ep. 3)In this episode Kirk and Dan continue their series on the concept of a "Church Theology" by digging into God's Biblical vision for the church. In the last two episodes we saw how God views the church, how he sees it. But now, what is God's vision for the church -- his desire for it and plan as it were to embody its calling and live out its mission?2019-10-0747 minChurch TheologyGod's View of the Church, Pt. 2 (Church Theology, Ep. 2)Kirk and Dan continue their discussion on God's view of the church by now asking, "How does God's view of the church affect our own? And what does this mean for us practically when we adopt God's view?"2019-09-3039 minChurch TheologyGod's View of the Church, Pt. 1 (Church Theology, Ep. 1)Church Theology is a podcast "on the church for the church." As such, we thought it'd be helpful to start off our podcast with an introduction series on that very idea of "church theology." We begin here in this episode by looking at the church, specifically God's view of the church and how that view should shape our own. In future episodes in this series we plan to look at God's vision for the church as well as the importance of the church's theology in living out that vision.2019-09-2433 minChurch TheologyChurch Theology - PreviewAnnouncing a new podcast, Church Theology: On the Church, For the Church. Join Kirk E. Miller and co-hosts as they dive into an array of topics, all the while asking, "How does this equip us for our mission as a church and as followers of Jesus?"2019-08-2204 min