Shows
Reformed PodmaticsThe Beauty of Reformed Theology and the CRCNA (w/ Simon Veenstra) - Episode 200By the Lord's grace, we've reached yet another milestone here at Reformed Podmatics: episode 200! To help us celebrate we invited back an old friend of the show, Simon Veenstra, to join in for a lively convivial conversation about what it is that continues to thrill and captivate us about the Reformed faith, and how we hope this beautiful inheritance will continue to guide our denomination in the years to come.
Visit www.almondvalley.org for information about Almond Valley Christian Reformed Church in Ripon, CA.
Music by Jonathan Ogden used with permission.
2025-05-1551 minReformed PodmaticsSome Spring Reading Recommendations - Episode 195Sometimes people may wonder what we're reading and thinking about over here at Reformed Podmatics, so this week decided to share a little bit about some recent things we've been reading, watching, and listening to. If you're looking for good books, devotionals, YouTube channels, or music to help you grow in your daily walk this is the episode for you!
Visit www.almondvalley.org for information about Almond Valley Christian Reformed Church in Ripon, CA.
Music by Jonathan Ogden used with permission.
2025-03-2842 minReformed PodmaticsCaring for the Poor - Episode 192While there is a lot that we get into here at Reformed Podmatics that gets us into controversial waters, one of the least controversial things in the Christian life is our duty to the poor and vulnerable in our midst. In recent decades, this has unfortunately become a political issue, like much else, yet for all believing followers of Christ it is a non-negotiable. So what does the Bible teach us about caring for the poor, the hurting, the hungry, the prisoner, and the stranger? And why does it matter? Join us this week as we offer our thoughts...
2025-03-0748 minReformed PodmaticsDenominations, Discernment, & Mere Christianity - Episode 184In the modern world today there is such a dizzying array of different Christian denominations and traditions that it's easy to get lost and confused. In order to exhibit the spirit of mere Christianity where we can appreciate and benefit from other Christians, we need to better understand the Christian family tree and the different branches. In doing so, we need to develop joyful discernment, not so we can look down on other Christians, but so we can know what to look out for as we learn from them and appreciate the gifts they bring to the table. In...
2025-01-0755 minReformed PodmaticsChristmas Movies & the Christian Faith - Episode 183'Tis the season for a Reformed Podmatics discussion about Christmas movies! This week, as good Neo-Calvinists, we take a little time to reflect on some of the most beloved Christmas films like A Christmas Carol, It's A Wonderful Life, A Charlie Brown Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Home Alone and examine what they get right, what they get wrong, and what they suggest to us about how our culture sees the Christian faith.
As this will be the last episode of the year, we'd like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a h...
2024-12-1951 minReformed PodmaticsExploring the Reformed Tradition, Pt. 3 - Aaron Renn, author of Life in the Negative World - Episode 170In what is maybe more of a crossover episode of our two ongoing series here at Reformed Podmatics, this week we're interviewing writer and consultant, Aaron Renn. Aaron's work over the past several years has been focused on cultural analysis of the Evangelical church with respect to the ways in which Christianity has now become a minority position in America and what that means going forward. In this week's episode, we talk about Aaron's new book, Life in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture, and about some of Aaron's insights for the Reformed tradition in the 21...
2024-08-2953 minReformed PodmaticsChrist & Culture, Pt. 1 - Is Modern Western Culture Progressive or Conservative? - Episode 168A crucial aspect of Christian discipleship is learning how to follow Christ faithfully regardless of the culture we find ourselves in. At times in history, Christians have found themselves both on the outside and on the inside of cultural power. But today, things are a little more complicated. And that leads us to ask the question, Is our culture more progressive or more conservative? How you answer this question often has everything to do with your general outlook, but it's an important question to consider if we're going to really understand and navigate the complexities of life in the...
2024-08-1647 minReformed PodmaticsChurch Membership - Episode 148What does it mean to be a member of a church? Is membership biblically valid? And how should we go about becoming members, and pastorally caring for members? And when do we "lapse" members versus "excommunicating" them? All these questions and more are the topic of this week's episode of Reformed Podmatics.
Visit www.almondvalley.org for information about Almond Valley Christian Reformed Church in Ripon, CA.
Music by Jonathan Ogden used with permission.
2024-01-1154 minReformed PodmaticsThe Dangers (and Benefits) of Listening to Podcasts - Episode 143A podcast a podcasts? That's where we're going on this episode of Reformed Podmatics. What are the dangers of podcast gluttony? What might our consumption of podcasts be replacing in our spiritual lives? And what are some podcasts that Zac and Mark have enjoyed in recent months?
Zac's List: Mere Fidelity, 5 Minutes in Church History, Simply Put, Speak Life with Glen Scrivener
Mark's List: First Things, Unbelievable, Messy Reformation, Meet an African Pastor, Rochester CRC Sermons, Martyn Lloyd Jones
Visit www.almondvalley.org for information about Almond Valley Christian Reformed Church in Ripon, CA.
2023-12-0236 minReformed PodmaticsCRC Synod 2023 Roundtable - Episode 128On this week's episode, Zac and Lucas sit down with Pastor Patrick Anthony (Immanuel CRC of Ripon, CA) and Pastor Dave Vander Meulen (Escalon CRC of Escalon, CA) to reflect on Synod 2023 and their experiences there as two of the four delegates from Classis Central California. The aim of this episode is twofold: to provide a simple report of what took place at synod and to discuss the implications of these decisions for the interested lay person.
Thanks for tuning in and putting up with this rather lengthy installment of Reformed Podmatics. We hope it's helpful in...
2023-07-011h 25Reformed PodmaticsWhat does the Bible say about swearing? - Episode 119Many thanks to the Reformed Podmatics listener who has suggested today's topic: What does the Bible say about swearing, bad language, or cussing? We'll find that Scripture calls Christians to be careful with words, but at times gives permission to use strong language that has sometimes been incorrectly forbidden in the American evangelical church.
Visit www.almondvalley.org for information about Almond Valley Christian Reformed Church in Ripon, CA.
Music by Jonathan Ogden used with permission.
2023-03-2453 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics DESTROY Political Pundits - Episode 99Click for an INSANE episode where Zac and Mark OWN anyone who disagrees with them about the most obscure political or theological topic. On a more serious note, we'll consider how Christians should consume political commentary.
Music by Jonathan Ogden used with permission.
2022-09-1638 minReformed PodmaticsDr. Michael Heiser and the Unseen Realm - Episode 96In this special episode of Reformed Podmatics we (virtually) sit down with Dr. Michael Heiser to talk about his influential book The Unseen Realm.
Music by Jonathan Ogden used with permission.
2022-08-261h 09Reformed PodmaticsSynod 2022: Sexuality Report Counterarguments - Episode 88The most widely-discussed agenda item for Synod 2022 is the proposal to adopt the Human Sexuality Report (HSR). In this (longer) episode of Reformed Podmatics Zac and Mark discuss some of the counterarguments to the report's teachings.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-06-031h 25Reformed PodmaticsSynod 2022: Synod as a ”Deliberative Body?” - Episode 86What does it mean that delegates to Synod are members of a deliberative body? Is there a distinctly Reformed way of entering into a decision-making process?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-05-1942 minReformed PodmaticsIntroverts & Extroverts - Episode 85How should a Christian think about personality differences? In this episode we talk about strengths and weakness of being an introvert or extrovert in the church.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-05-1343 minReformed PodmaticsThe Tone and Tenor of a Good Sermon - Episode 84The content of Gospel preaching rightly receives much attention in churches, but what about the character of a sermon? What should the pastor's tone or mood be when sharing God's Word?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-05-0432 minReformed PodmaticsTwisted Christianity: Liberalism - Episode 83Why is theological liberalism so attractive to many in western society today? What are some of the dangers of this movement?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-04-2856 minReformed PodmaticsA Very Reformed Holy Week - Episode 82Holy Week marks the high point of the church calendar, culminating in Good Friday and Easter Sunday. In this episode we discuss differing Reformed perspectives on the observance of Holy Week and some common pitfalls in how Easter Sunday is celebrated in American evangelical contexts.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-04-1540 minReformed PodmaticsTwisted Christianity: Fundamentalism - Episode 81In Part 1 of a two part series we discuss how churches can fall into the trap of fundamentalism. Why is this movement so attractive? What are the dangers of this theology?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-04-0845 minReformed PodmaticsThe Slap Heard Round the World - Episode 80WILL SMITH SLAPPED CHRIS ROCK! In our most "click-baity" episode yet, we discuss the altercation between the Fresh Prince and Marty the Zebra.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-04-0127 minReformed PodmaticsMedia Matters - Episode 79How should a Christian approach his or her consumption of media? Among other issues, this episode gives special attention to the parental responsibility to discern what media a child should watch.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-03-2348 minReformed PodmaticsWar in Ukraine - Episode 78A general discussion on the Russia/Ukraine Conflict from a Christian perspective.
For more perspective on this complicated matter, check out "Putin's Holy War" on the Unbelievable Podcast.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-03-1850 minReformed PodmaticsChurch History for Everyone - Episode 77Let's get historical! In this episode we discuss the value of knowing what the Lord has done since Jesus ascended to heaven, and why we believe every Christian (especially pastors) should employ the wisdom of the saints in our daily lives and worship.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-03-0947 minReformed PodmaticsDenominations: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly - Episode 76During the past 2 weeks Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark have served the Christian Reformed Church in various ways. All this effort has us asking the question, "Are denominations a good thing?"
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-03-0446 minReformed PodmaticsThe Reformed Way to Hope - Episode 75What is the source of your hope? The Bible and our Reformed forefathers point us to regard hope as a byproduct of knowing and seeking God.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-02-2344 minReformed PodmaticsDeconstruction and Doubt - Episode 74Is it wrong to wrestle with God? How should a Christian respond to a friend who is wavering in their faith?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-02-1654 minReformed PodmaticsDealing with Death - Episode 73We discuss the topic of death from pastoral, practical, and theological angles. Why do we die? What should I do when a loved one dies? How can a Christian be prepared to die?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-02-0951 minReformed Podmatics”Theology’s Not For Me” - Episode 72A common objection to reading Reformed books or listening to podcasts like Reformed Podmatics is "Theology isn't for me." What sparked a passion for theology for Zac and Mark? Whether you prefer to learn by reading, viewing, or listening there are great resources available to today's Christian who desires to grow in knowledge of God.
The Veritas Forum - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheVeritasForum
First Things
"The Mortification of Spin" Podcast
"Mere Fidelity" Podcast
Everyone's a Theologian by R.C. Sproul
Music Provided With P...
2022-02-0247 minReformed PodmaticsShould I Attend a Same-Sex Wedding? - Episode 71How should a Christian RSVP to a wedding invitation to a same-sex couple? This episode springs from a conversation Zac had with a grandparent who asked him if it is right for a Christian to attend such an event.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-01-2640 minReformed PodmaticsPreaching Allergies - Episode 70Preachers and congregants can become allergic to certain topics, but is this a biblical development in a church? Should a pastor preach about politics, money, sexuality, or other matters that are controversial?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-01-2150 minReformed PodmaticsHonoring MLK? - Episode 69In preparation for the national holiday celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr. we discuss his contributions to American life. How can a Christian today celebrate Dr. King while also keeping your eyes open to his theological and moral struggles?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-01-1243 minReformed PodmaticsSuperstition In the Church - Episode 68
"I'm not superstitious, but I am a little stitious." - Michael Scott
Like Michael Scott, many Christians would consider themselves occasionally beholden to a superstitious approach to life. How does superstition pull people away from the Gospel of Christ and a rich relationship with the Lord?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2022-01-0642 minReformed PodmaticsLessons from ”The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill” - Episode 67Now that the popular "Rise and Fall of Mars Hill" podcast has concluded, Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark look back and discuss the lessons they learned about pastoral leadership, humility, and repentance.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-12-1548 minReformed PodmaticsWhat Is Holy Communion? - Episode 66What are the 4 main views of what is happening when Holy Communion is practiced in a church? What are some of the dangers that arise when the sacrament is misunderstood?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-12-0854 minReformed PodmaticsThe CRC: Yesterday and Today - Episode 65The biggest question for the Christian Reformed Church today is one of identity. Who are we? This episode takes a quick trip through CRC history and then analyzes how different CRC people have answered that question. We also briefly discuss the upcoming Synodical decision on whether or not to adopt the Human Sexuality Report.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-12-0357 minReformed PodmaticsPastoral Burnout - Episode 64A recent study revealed that 38% of American pastors are considering leaving the ministry. What might contribute to this trend?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-11-2449 minReformed PodmaticsAlcohol - Episode 63Can a Christian drink alcohol in good conscience? We look to the Bible and church history for perspectives on this everyday issue.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-11-1755 minReformed PodmaticsChurch Membership - Episode 62How important is it that a Christian is officially a member of a local church?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-11-1039 minReformed PodmaticsCOVID Vaccines: A Pastoral Conversation - Episode 61Two pastors talk about COVID, vaccines, masks, and how Christians can navigate through these matters in a way that exalts Christ.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-11-0239 minReformed PodmaticsThe Case for Confessions - Episode 60What are your plans for Reformation Day? How about celebrating by listening to a podcast on confessionalism? In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark laud the merits of the confessions.
To read the 3 Forms of Unity check out https://www.crcna.org/welcome/beliefs/confessions
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-10-271h 00Reformed PodmaticsSingleness and Celibacy - Episode 59What does the Bible have to say about remaining unmarried? How can a church serve her members that are single?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-10-2043 minReformed PodmaticsIs God Active Outside the Church? (Common Grace) - Episode 58As the chasm between western culture and Christianity widens, we need to think biblically about how and where God is at work. Does the Lord only confer blessings on the elect or is He at work outside the Church also?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-10-1346 minReformed PodmaticsCan Churches Who Disagree Cooperate? - Episode 57The word of the day is "ecumenism." This is a theological term that refers to churches from different denominations cooperating with one another. In this episode we discuss how and to what extent Christians from different perspective should get along?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-09-2847 minReformed PodmaticsDo I Attend a ”Mars Hill?” - Episode 56In an age of scandals and church closures, how can someone spot the warning signs in their congregation? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark recount some of the lessons learned from "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill" and help ask if those red flags are evident in your local church.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-09-2137 minReformed PodmaticsWho Is C.S. Lewis? - Episode 55Clive Staples Lewis is often regarded as the greatest apologist for the Christian faith during the 20th Century. Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark give a snapshot of his life and work.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-09-1435 minReformed PodmaticsWhere Grace Goes Wrong in the Church - Episode 54Following up on Jesus and John Wayne and responding to the popular podcast The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill, Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark ask how Christians are called to relationships defined by grace and accountability. What is biblical grace?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-09-0744 minReformed PodmaticsReview of Jesus and John Wayne - Episode 53Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation is a best-selling book by Kristin Kobes Du Mez, Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark welcome Ron VanderMolen Sr. to the podcast to discuss our thoughts on the book.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-08-311h 13Reformed PodmaticsTo Catch an Obfuscator - Episode 52"The Bible isn't as clear as you think it is!" This proclamation is common among skeptics, and increasingly popular among people (even ministers) in the church. In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark talk about the dangers of obfuscating Scripture.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-08-2543 minReformed PodmaticsDo You Take the Bible Literally? - Episode 51One of the "gotcha" questions in conversations about the Bible is, "Do you read the Bible literally?" Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark explore the question from a Reformed perspective.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-08-1835 minReformed PodmaticsCalvinism Today - Episode 50In the wake of the "Young, Restless, and Reformed" movement of the early 2000s, what is the status of Calvinism in America today? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark take a look at previous events and present trends.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-08-1054 minReformed PodmaticsWho Is Herman Bavinck? - Episode 49In this new series on Reformed Podmatics we'll venture through Church history and learn more about the "great cloud of witnesses" that surrounds us today. This episode gives a basic introduction to Herman Bavinck, whose masterful work as a theologian continues to grow in influence throughout the world.
Fun Fact: The title of this podcast plays on the title of Bavinck's magnum opus, Reformed Dogmatics. You can purchase his work here.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-08-031h 09Reformed PodmaticsCriticism & Encouragement - Episode 48How can we best offer feedback, both positive and critical, to people in church? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark give examples of how encouragement and criticism has gone well and how it has been unhelpful for us in the past.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-07-2757 minReformed PodmaticsBeauty and Aesthetics - Episode 47Why should beauty matter to Christians? What place do art, architecture, music, films, and literature have in how we celebrate God's glory?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-07-2256 minReformed PodmaticsCritical Race Theory - Episode 46Over the past few months Critical Race Theory has been much-discussed but often misunderstood. What should a Christian make of this movement? Is it compatible with a biblical worldview?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-07-081h 02Reformed PodmaticsModest Is Hottest? - Episode 45While the topic of modesty has faded a bit in prevalence among evangelicals, there is still much confusion about the matter. What does the Bible say about modesty? Is this only a "women's issue?"
Additional Reading:
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/modesty-conversation/
https://alastairadversaria.com/2013/09/07/some-rambling-and-unwelcome-reflections-on-modesty-debates/
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-06-2955 minReformed PodmaticsA Word for Argumentative Calvinists - Reformed Podmatics: Episode 44Why are so many Reformed pastors argumentative and suspicious of any idea that differs slightly from their established doctrines? In this episode of Reformed Podmatics Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark address polemics, which Oxford defines as "the art or practice of engaging in controversial debate or dispute."
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-06-2259 minReformed PodmaticsWomen's Ordination - Reformed Podmatics: Episode 43We're going there! Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark discuss differing beliefs about women's ordination.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-06-151h 14Reformed PodmaticsIngredients of a Good Sermon - Reformed Podmatics: Episode 42What are the ingredients of a good sermon? This episode of Reformed Podmatics will prompt listeners to evaluate the quality of a sermon with more criteria than "How did it make me feel?"
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-06-081h 10Reformed PodmaticsThe Case for Christian Education - Reformed Podmatics: Episode 41One trait of Reformed churches that many evangelicals find peculiar is our dedication to Christian day school education. Special guest Joe Venema, principal of the upper school (middle school and high school) at Ripon Christian joins Reformed Podmatics to help us understand why Christian education is so important to many Reformed believers.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-06-0156 minReformed PodmaticsThe Charismatic Movement - Reformed Podmatics: Episode 40One of the most influential trends within Christianity over the past 30 years has been the charismatic movement. Charismatic leaders have impacted beliefs on worship, music, evangelism, theology, and ecclesiology. Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark discuss some of the blessings and challenges that have arisen as a result of the expanding influence of charismatic theology.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-05-261h 11Reformed PodmaticsRoman Catholicism - Reformed Podmatics: Episode 39What should a Reformed Christian make of the Roman Catholic Church? This question originated in the Reformation and continues to this day.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-05-181h 14Reformed Podmatics3 Good Arguments Against Christianity - Reformed Podmatics: Episode 38What are some of the more theologically or philosophically substantial arguments against the Christian faith? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark share their thoughts on how a wise, faithful Christian can respond to these matters.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-05-111h 04Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 37: A Catalog of Bad Arguments Against ChristianityAs western culture moves further into a "post-Christian" era, there will be various arguments made against our faith. Some arguments are better than others. In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark address some of the weaker arguments against the orthodox, historic Christian faith.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-05-051h 07Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 36: Youth MinistryWhat are some distinctive traits of Reformed youth ministry? Today we welcome special guest, Pastor Patrick Anthony, to Reformed Podmatics for a discussion on the purpose and goal of youth group.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-04-271h 02Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 35: Non-Reformed VoicesWhich non-Reformed theologians and pastors are doing Christ-centered ministry in a way that is blessing Reformed believers? What criteria do we use to evaluate who is influencing our life and doctrine? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark give their lists of non-Reformed voices that have blessed them.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-04-201h 00Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 34: Nomadic SpiritualityPolls suggest that churchgoers are becoming less and less likely to officially join a church and worship every week with that congregation. There are a number of factors that contribute to this phenomenon of "nomadic spirituality." Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark discuss some of the dangers of transience, both for pastors and for the average churchgoer.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-04-1355 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 33: EasterChrist is Risen! He is Risen, indeed!
Enjoy this short episode on why it's great to be a Reformed Christian on Easter Sunday.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-04-0408 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 32: Fallen LeadersIn recent years the Church has endured a spate of moral failings of influential leaders. What leads to such catastrophes? How can a Christian respond when a trusted pastor falls?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-03-2359 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 31: IdentityWhat is your most foundational identity? American? Mother? Alumnus? Member of ______ church? One of the questions Jesus came to answer was the question of identity. Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark look to Scripture and Reformed theology for insights on this essential matter.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-03-161h 05Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 30: Sola Scriptura vs. Tradition?Must a Christian choose between Sola Scriptura and tradition? As debate rages around interpreting God's Word, this issue is often at the center of the argument.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-03-0958 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 29: Biblical Authority"I take the Bible seriously, but..."
Christians know we should signal our devotion to God's Word, but does the Bible have functional authority over our life and doctrine? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark explore some threats to biblical authority and present a high view of God's Word, which will not only lead us into life but will confront every person's sin.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-03-021h 08Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 28: RepentanceHow central is repentance to the Christian life? In this episode of Reformed Podmatics Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark not only define repentance but teach on the "ethos" of the penitent Christian life. Understanding this topic is essential if we are going to have productive conversations about sin and salvation through Christ.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-02-231h 00Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 27: Church MusicWhat are some theological principles that aid us in determining which songs (or even which musical styles) are best suited for a congregation's worship of God? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark dive into the topic of church music in this week's episode of Reformed Podmatics.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-02-161h 03Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 26: Favorite Bible VersesOne of the best questions Christians can talk about is, "What is your favorite part of God's Word?" In this episode, Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark discuss their favorite Bible verses.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-02-0950 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 25: The Future of the CRCPastor Zac and Pastor Mark conclude their three part series on the Christian Reformed Church. The big question of this episode is "Where does the CRC (hopefully) go from here?"
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-02-0250 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 24: JoyIn an age of fear, worry, and division every person is searching for joy. We know we need it, but we often fail to find it. Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark discuss how Christ blesses his disciples with joy.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-01-261h 03Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 23: Church & StateLet's get political! According to the Bible and Reformed theology, how does God call church and the state to interact with one another?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-01-201h 01Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 22: The CRC, Part 2In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark examine the strengths and weaknesses of two "streams" in the CRC: progressives and pragmatists. What do God's Word and Reformed theology tell us about each movement?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-01-131h 10Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 21: The CRC, Part 1Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark are pastors in the Christian Reformed Church, and in this episode they give some analysis of CRC preaching and the "conservative" wing of the denomination.
Being Biblical™: When the Bible Becomes a Brand - The Davenant Institute by Alistair Roberts
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2021-01-061h 06Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 20: Review of "Soul"Pastor Zac & Pastor Mark review the latest Disney/Pixar film, Soul. This film is getting rave reviews from critics and audiences, but how should a Christian respond to the movie's overall message?
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-12-301h 04Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 19: The IncarnationMerry Christmas! In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark spend time in worship of God by discussing the beauty, mystery, and comfort of the doctrine of the Incarnation.
Click the following links to continue your worship of Christ after listening:
Lauridsen: O Magnum Mysterium - YouTube
In dulci jubilo - Samuel Scheidt, John Rutter, Cambridge Singers, John Scott - YouTube
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-12-2254 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 18: COVID-19COVID-19 continues to impact our lives in so many ways, and our experience at church has been no exception. In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark share about the decision-making process in their church and reflect on how Christians can support and encourage one another during the pandemic.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-12-1547 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 17:ChristmasChristmas time is here! Pastor Mark and Pastor Zac take a trip way down memory lane and explore what the Reformers thought believed about celebrating Christmas. Along with this discussion come questions about the church calendar and "a theology of play." Pour yourself a hot peppermint mocha, light a fire in the fireplace, and cozy up with this week's edition of Reformed Podmatics.
2020-12-0848 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 16: HomosexualityIt is easy to establish that the Bible teaches that homosexual activity is sinful. In this week's podcast Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark ask, "Why is it wrong?" Simply saying "because the Bible says so" doesn't carry the weight it once did in American culture, so Christians should be ready to engage the conversation with Scripture and well-reasoned logic.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-11-241h 05Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 15: High Church vs. Low ChurchThis week's episode is the first in a new series called "Pastoral Disagreements." While Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark are strongly united in the vast majority of their theology, here's one place they see things differently from one another. The topic of discussion is "High Church" vs. "Low Church." Let us know which side you fall on and why.
Music Provided With Permission by Jonathan Ogden - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-11-171h 08Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 14: EschatologyWhat is God's plan for the future? Are we in the End Times? What if I missed the rapture? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark break down some of the different views on Eschatology.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-11-1159 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 13: Who Despises the Day of Small Things?This week's podcast is a recording of the chapel talk that Zac and Mark gave at Ripon Christian High School on Wednesday, October 28. During this talk they discuss how an obsession with being spectacular can distract a Christian from faithful, simple obedience to God.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-11-0334 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 12: Infant BaptismAlong with the Heidelberg Catechism many people in American churches ask, "Should infants be baptized?" In this week's podcast Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark make a biblical, philosophical, and historical case for the practice of infant baptism.
The Case for Covenantal Infant Baptism edited by Gregg Strawbridge - https://amzn.to/31Oq3RI
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-10-2859 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 11: Bible TranslationsHow can we trust that our Bibles are God's Word? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark share their thoughts on which translations are most helpful for our faith.
James White vs. Steven Anderson on "King James Onlyism" - https://bit.ly/37oTQ71
Themelios Article on the new NIV - https://bit.ly/35leF0v
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-10-2154 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 10: WorshipSome might think that the "worship wars" of the 90s and early 2000s are far behind the church, but looking at the differing theologies of worship at work in the American church it is still very evident that opinions vary on what makes for a good worship service. Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark look to Scripture and church history to settle the debate once and for all!
2020-10-141h 00Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 9: Reformed Theology, Part 2What are some dangers that threaten the purity, unity, and spiritual productivity of Reformed Christians? In this episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark look to the Bible and Church history as they tackle topics like hyper-Kuyperianism and Radical Two Kingdom Theology.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-10-0758 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 8: Reformed Theology Part 1What is Reformed theology? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark explain some of the key ingredients of a Reformed understanding of the work of God. This episode includes discussion on the 5 Points of Calvinism, the 5 "solas," and where we see the Reformed Church heading in the coming years.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-09-3057 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 7: MysteryWhere does mystery fit into a Christian understanding of God? Which questions about God are "answerable" and which questions will remain unanswered in this life? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark tackle this topic that may seem peripheral, but in life's most difficult moments we will need a good theology of mystery.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-09-2252 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 6: Black Lives MatterIn this week's episode Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark discuss the sensitive but important topic of racism. How can a Christian engage in this conversation with grace and truth? This episode begins with a biblical vision for racial reconciliation and then examines the Black Lives Matter movement from a Christian perspective.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-09-151h 07Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 5: The Role of a Reformed PastorWhat does a pastor do? How do we determine the personal and "professional" qualifications of a minister? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark discuss the role of a Reformed pastor.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-09-0948 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 4: Our "Heroes"In addition to the Bible, the Christian can draw inspiration, guidance, and insight from the "great cloud of witnesses" who has gone before us. In today's episode Pastor Mark and Pastor Zac talk about the Christians who have impacted them most in their own faith and ministry.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-09-061h 06Reformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 3: RevivalWhat is a biblical revival? Is revival something that Christians should pray for and seek? What is a historically Reformed understanding of revival, and where has the desire for personal and cultural transformation gone awry in church history?
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
2020-09-0350 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 2: Are Reformed Christians Evangelical?The term "evangelical" is frequently employed for theologically conservative Christians in political and ecclesiastical circles, but what does it really mean? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark explore its definition and ask how it aligns with Reformed theological sensibilities.
2020-08-2047 minReformed PodmaticsReformed Podmatics - Episode 1: Shattering False DichotomiesDo Christians have to choose between grace and truth? Between doctrine, piety, and transformation? Between humility and declaration? Pastor Zac and Pastor Mark kick off Reformed Podmatics by discussing how these and other dichotomies are resolved by a biblical, Reformed approach to life.
Music Provided by Jonathan Ogden (with Permission) - https://amzn.to/2DTw5rj
See www.almondvalley.org for information about Almond Valley Christian Reformed Church in Ripon, CA.
2020-08-1552 min