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Christ the Center

281 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 days ago - ★★★★★ - 113 ratings

Christ the Center is an audio program centered on Christian reformed theology. In each episode a group of informed panelists discuss important issues and stimulate listeners to critical thinking and a better understanding of reformed doctrine designed to yield godly living.

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Episodes

Consciences and the Reformation

March 22, 2024 05:00 - 57 MB

In this enlightening episode, we discuss the nuances of conscience and confessional identity during the Reformation. Joined by Dr. Timothy Scheuers, we turn our attention to the transformative period of the 16th century, exploring how conscience acted not only as a catalyst for reform but also as a complex element influencing church unity, confessional standards, […]

A Devotional Guide to the Westminster Shorter Catechism

March 15, 2024 05:00 - 39.8 MB

In this episode, we speak with William Boekestein, Jonathan Landry Cruse, and Andrew J. Miller, the authors behind a new book, Glorifying and Enjoying God: 52 Devotions through the Westminster Shorter Catechism. These three pastors and theologians share their insights and experiences from their journey through the Westminster Shorter Catechism, offering listeners a unique opportunity […]

Life in the Negative World

March 08, 2024 06:00 - 37.1 MB

In this episode, we welcome Aaron Renn, author of Life in the Negative World: Confronting Challenges in an Anti-Christian Culture, to explore the profound shifts in cultural attitudes towards Christianity and the broader implications for faith in the modern era. Renn, with a diverse background ranging from management and technology consulting at Accenture, to urban […]

Van Til Group #12 — The Christian Philosophy of Behavior

March 01, 2024 06:00 - 48.8 MB

In this installment of Van Til Group, we turn to the section of Defense of the Faith (pp. 69–72), which begins the chapter titled “The Christian Philosophy of Behavior.” This section outlines the Christian perspective on ethics, drawing from the Reformed confessions to emphasize that human actions, or behavior, should aim to glorify God. It […]

Irony and the Presbyterian Church in America

February 23, 2024 06:00 - 42.8 MB

In this episode, we sit down with David Hall, Senior Pastor of Midway Presbyterian Church in Powder Springs, GA, and a prolific author, to discuss his latest book, Irony and the Presbyterian Church in America: The First Fifty Years. Hall’s work, a historical and analytical exploration of the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), offers a […]

Understanding Family Worship

February 16, 2024 06:00 - 34 MB

In this episode, Camden Bucey engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Terry Johnson, Senior Minister of Independent Presbyterian Church in Savannah, Georgia and the author of Understanding Family Worship: Its History, Theology, and Practice (Christian Focus). This book provides a timely perspective on family worship. Rev. Johnson reflects on his personal journey, starting with the birth of […]

Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old

February 09, 2024 06:00 - 44.4 MB

In this episode, we welcome Drs. Benjamin Gladd and G. K. Beale, co-editors of The Dictionary of the New Testament Use of the Old Testament (Baker Academic) along with D. A. Carson and Andrew Naselli. We explore various theological and biblical topics, particularly focusing on the intricate relationship between the New Testament and the Old […]

In the Beginning: Considering the Historicity of Genesis 1 and 2

February 02, 2024 06:00 - 37.4 MB

Dr. Cornelis Van Dam joins us to speak about his book In the Beginning: Listening to Genesis 1 and 2, in which he argues that reading Genesis 1 and 2 as history is not only justified but necessary. Van Dam clarifies the different roles that ancient Near Eastern literature and scientific theories should play in […]

Vos Group #86 — The Lord’s Temptation and Our Own

January 26, 2024 06:00 - 37.9 MB

In this installment of our Vos Group, we turn to pp. 335–336 of Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to explore the uniquely messianic nature of these temptations, examining how Christ’s experiences differ significantly from human temptations. A key theme of this passage is the comparison of Christ’s temptation with Adam’s, emphasizing Christ’s role as […]

Church Order and Parliamentary Procedure

January 19, 2024 06:00 - 40.7 MB

Join us on this week’s episode as we speak with Fred Greco, pastor of Christ Church in Katy, Texas. He is a trusted authority on parliamentary procedure and church polity and moderator of the PCA’s 50th General Assembly. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, alongside his wife, Deb, Fred’s academic journey in Classics and […]

The Royal Priesthood and the Glory of God

January 12, 2024 06:00 - 35.2 MB

We welcome David Schrock to discuss his book The Royal Priesthood and the Glory of God in which he presents a biblical theology that explores the theme of priesthood throughout the Bible. The book demonstrates that the concept of priesthood, starting with Adam in the Garden of Eden, is central to understanding God’s plan for […]

The Servant of the Lord and His Servant People

January 05, 2024 06:00 - 44.1 MB

Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Matthew S. Harmon, Professor of New Testament studies at Grace College and Theological Seminary. Camden Bucey engages Dr. Harmon in an exploration of his book, The Servant of the Lord and His Servant People, which explores the theme of servanthood across the biblical canon, offering insightful perspectives […]

Highlights from 2023

December 29, 2023 06:00 - 71.7 MB

Since 2008, we have been taking time around New Year’s Day to bring you some of the top moments from the preceding year. We have several great clips lined up for you today. The Top Episodes of 2023 (by YouTube views) Chapters Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Cory Brock, Dan Ragusa, Danny Olinger, Greg Beale, […]

Natural Revelation, Religious Liberty, and the First Amendment

December 22, 2023 06:00 - 43.1 MB

Join us in this episode of Christ the Center, where host Camden Bucey engages in a free-flowing yet thoughtful discussion with Dr. Owen Anderson, philosopher and professor of religious studies at Arizona State University and pastor of Historic Christian Church in Phoenix. The conversation centers around the nuanced relationship between philosophy, religion, and the concept […]

Introduction to the Pentateuch / Year-End Update

December 15, 2023 06:00 - 61.3 MB

In this episode, we’re excited to unveil the inaugural lesson of our new series, exploring the profound depths of the Pentateuch—the first five books of the Bible. Under the able guidance of Dr. Mark Winder, we’re providing a new course of study through six comprehensive, yet accessible, biblical-theological lessons, offering fresh insights into this foundational […]

Vos Group #85 — The Temptation in the Wilderness

December 08, 2023 06:00 - 48.3 MB

In this installment of Vos Group, Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss pp. 330–333 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. In this section, Vos focuses on the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, a pivotal event in the Gospels. Vos examines various interpretations and challenges to the historicity and objectivity of this […]

Discussing Jesus’ Mediation, the Lord’s Supper, and Flags in Worship

December 01, 2023 06:00 - 51.4 MB

In this episode, Camden Bucey and Jim Cassidy dive into a variety of topics answering questions submitted by listeners and viewers of the program. Topics covered range from theological discussions, such as the role of Jesus’ intercession for the elect and non-elect within the visible church​​, to historical and exegetical considerations, like the understanding of […]

Covenant Theology and Cultural Engagement in the Thought of Meredith G. Kline

November 24, 2023 06:00 - 44.6 MB

Dr. Michael Beck joins us to speak about his book, Covenant Lord and Cultic Boundary: A Dialectic Inquiry Concerning Meredith Kline and the Reformed Two-Kingdom Project (Wipf and Stock), which is a theological exploration of the ideas of Meredith Kline and their impact on the Reformed Two-Kingdom Project. The book provides a literature review of […]

Vos Group #84 — John the Baptist’s Testimony of Jesus

November 17, 2023 18:00 - 35.1 MB

In this installment of Vos Group, Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey discuss pp. 322–329 of Geerhardus Vos’ book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments. In this section, Vos discusses John’s testimony of Jesus after his baptism. The testimony of John the Baptist as depicted in the Gospel of John emphasizes Jesus’ unique divine nature and […]

Robert Boyle, Christianity, and Science

November 10, 2023 06:00 - 49.5 MB

In the latest episode of Christ the Center, we explore the fascinating intersection of science, faith, and philosophy through the life and contributions of Robert Boyle, the seventeenth-century chemist often dubbed the father of modern chemistry. Our guest, Dr. Edward B. Davis, Professor Emeritus of the History of Science at Messiah University, shares his extensive […]

Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion

November 03, 2023 05:00 - 51 MB

After recording a course on the subject for Reformed Academy, Dr. Carlton Wynne comes to the podcast studio to discuss John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion. Topics covered include Calvin’s theology, the right ordering of knowledge, general and special revelation, the effects of the fall on human reasoning, natural theology, and comparisons to the […]

Elect Exiles in 1 Peter 1:1–2 | Reformed Forum Update

October 27, 2023 05:00 - 38.2 MB

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey offer an update regarding several projects and initiatives at Reformed Forum including the launch of Kevin Chiarot’s course on 1 Peter. We include the first lesson of the course, which is available for free on reformedforum.org and on YouTube. In the first lesson, Dr. Chiarot teaches on the elect exiles […]

Machen’s Enduring Significance | Unfolding Redemption

October 20, 2023 05:00 - 48.2 MB

Lane Tipton and Camden Bucey reflect on the recent Reformed Forum Theology Conference on J. Gresham Machen’s Christianity and Liberalism before turning to a discussion of their new booklet, Unfolding Redemption: Exploring the History and Order of Salvation. Chapters Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

William Jennings Bryan, the Round Table Club, and Religious Freedom

October 13, 2023 05:00 - 41.5 MB

Richard Gamble and Jeff McDonald join us again. On this episode, McDonald introduces several significant points about William Jennings Bryan, including his early life and upbringing in a strong evangelical tradition, his belief that schools and universities posed a problem to religious freedom, and his concern that students could be led away from faith into […]

The Importance of Cornelius Van Til for Today

October 06, 2023 05:00 - 75.6 MB

Camden Bucey recently lectured on “The Importance of Van Til for Today” for the OPC’s Presbytery of Michigan and Ontario at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, MI. Jim Cassidy and Camden discuss the main points of the lecture before we turn to a recording of the lecture and its accompanying Q&A session. Cornelius Van Til (1895–1987) has shaped the […]

The Roots of Reformed Moral Theology

September 29, 2023 05:00 - 48.2 MB

We are pleased to welcome Dr. Bruce Baugus to our program to discuss his book, The Roots of Reformed Moral Theology, published by Reformation Heritage Books. In this comprehensive work, Dr. Baugus delves into the foundational elements that have shaped moral theology within the Reformed tradition. He provides both historical and theological contexts, covering a […]

The Aaronic Blessing of Numbers 6

September 22, 2023 05:00 - 50.3 MB

In this episode, we welcome back Michael Glodo, Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. Rev. Glodo has written The Lord Bless You and Keep You (Crossway), a new book on the Aaronic blessing of Numbers 6:24–26. We discuss several biblical-theological and practical implications for contemporary faith and practice including […]

Vos Group #83 — John’s Baptism of Jesus

September 15, 2023 05:00 - 41.7 MB

Today, we turn to pages 318–322 of Vos’ Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to explore the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. Our goal is to offer a nuanced understanding by identifying both the similarities and differences between John’s baptism of Jesus and the baptisms John performed upon the people. Vos aims to […]

Christianity and Liberalism: The Church

September 08, 2023 05:00 - 48.6 MB

We welcome John Muether and Danny Olinger to discuss the seventh and final chapter of Machen’s classic book, Christianity and Liberalism. The chapter highlights the importance of the church as the most important social institution in Christianity. Machen argues that the church is not only concerned with saving individual souls but also with education and […]

Exitus and Reditus in the Theology of Thomas Aquinas

September 01, 2023 05:00 - 45.4 MB

We welcome Dr. Lane Tipton back to the studio on the heels of teaching a new course on the theology of Thomas Aquinas. In this course, Dr. Tipton aims to provide an in-depth understanding of Thomas Aquinas’s trinitarian theology, emphasizing that his entire body of work is governed by the concept of exitus (departure) and […]

The Communion of the Saints

August 25, 2023 05:00 - 48.2 MB

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. A. Craig Troxel, Robert G. den Dulk Professor of Practical Theology at Westminster Seminary California. Dr. Troxel delves into his thought-provoking chapter on the communion of the saints from Theology for Ministry, a festschrift for Dr. Sinclair Ferguson. What does it mean to build a spiritual community […]

Christianity and Liberalism: Salvation

August 18, 2023 05:00 - 43.1 MB

Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey discuss the sixth chapter of Machen’s classic book, Christianity and Liberalism. In this chapter, J. Gresham Machen explores the differences between the liberal and Christian views of salvation. He argues that liberalism finds salvation in man, while Christianity finds it in an act of God. Machen critiques the moral influence […]

The Upside-Down Kingdom

August 11, 2023 05:00 - 41.5 MB

We welcome Chris Castaldo to the program to explore the Beatitudes. In his book, The Upside-Down Kingdom, Castaldo offers a fresh perspective on these familiar teachings of Jesus, showing how they reveal God’s heart for the poor, the meek, and the persecuted. He also provides practical guidance for how we can live out these values […]

Vos Group #82 — More on John the Baptist

August 04, 2023 05:00 - 45.1 MB

We turn to pp. 315–318 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with John the Baptist. Our discussion examines the complexities of John’s role in the grand scheme of Biblical theology, unearthing profound insights about revelation and prophecy. We explore John’s unique connection with Elijah, and the significance […]

The Living Hope Revealed in 1 Peter

July 28, 2023 05:00 - 37.3 MB

Explore the profound wisdom of 1 Peter in this episode of the Christ the Center podcast. Camden Bucey is joined by Ryan Noha, Reformed Forum’s Director of Education and Advancement, and Rev. Dr. Kevin Chiarot, pastor of Westminster PCA in Rock Tavern, New York. Together, they discuss the teachings of 1 Peter, unraveling its rich […]

New Courses and Upcoming Events

July 21, 2023 05:00 - 87.5 MB

Ryan Noha and Camden Bucey discuss two new courses from Reformed Academy as well as the new online community and several upcoming events. Camden, Jim Cassidy, and Lane Tipton will be attending a meetup in Dallas on August 1, 2023 while Camden and Carlton Wynne will be present for a meetup in Atlanta on August […]

The Character of Christ

July 14, 2023 05:00 - 45.6 MB

In this episode, we speak with Jonathan Landry Cruse, author of The Character of Christ, a thought-provoking book that explores the character of Christ and the fruit of the Spirit. Join us as we consider the profound concepts of love, joy, and peace, and discover how Jesus embodies these virtues and offers them to us. […]

Vos Group #81 — Revelation Connected with John the Baptist

July 07, 2023 05:00 - 55.1 MB

We turn to pp. 311–314 of Geerhardus Vos’s book, Biblical Theology: Old and New Testaments to discuss revelation connected with John the Baptist. In this section, we are reminded of the importance of being methodologically self-conscious in our biblical theology. Vos provides valuable insights into John the Baptist’s mission and his place in the unfolding of God’s plan […]

John Knox and Pastoral Theology

June 30, 2023 05:00 - 49.2 MB

Sean Morris joins us to speak about the pastoral theology of John Knox. Known as the thunderous voice of the Scottish Reformation, Knox is a towering figure whose impact still reverberates within the walls of churches around the globe. This episode focuses on Knox’s profound commitment to conforming worship to Scripture, a principle that shaped […]

Reformed Theology

June 23, 2023 05:00 - 38.9 MB

Dr. Jonathan Master speaks about his book, Reformed Theology (P&R Publishing), which is part of the Blessings of the Faith series edited by Jason Helopoulos. Master provides a concise and accessible introduction to the historic and orthodox Christian tradition of Reformed theology. In this book, he emphasizes the sovereignty of God, the authority of Scripture, […]

Standing against Tyranny: The Life and Legacy of Arthur Perkins

June 16, 2023 05:00 - 33.7 MB

Brian DeJong speaks about his biography of Arthur Franklin Perkins, a Presbyterian minister serving in Merrill, Wisconsin in the 1920s and 1930s. For his bold stand for truth, and against error and unbelief, Perkins was persecuted and prosecuted by his own Presbytery. Leaving the PCUSA in 1936, he became a constituting member of the Orthodox […]

Christianity and Liberalism: Christ

June 09, 2023 05:00 - 39.8 MB

On the 100th anniversary of the publication of Christianity and Liberalism, we consider J. Gresham Machen’s critique of the liberal theological perspective on Jesus Christ, contrasting it with the traditional, orthodox Christian view. Machen argues that liberal theology often misrepresents Christ as a mere teacher of righteousness and neglects his divine aspects and teachings. He […]

Artificial Intelligence in Scholarship and Pastoral Ministry: An Exploration of Possibilities and Perils

June 02, 2023 05:00 - 39.8 MB

Join us as we explore the increasingly overlapping spheres of artificial intelligence (AI) and pastoral ministry. Our discussion uncovers both the promising opportunities and the intricate challenges presented by this cross-disciplinary synthesis, offering listeners a space for thoughtful reflection and critical analysis. We begin by considering the ways in which AI could influence scholarly and […]

Van Til Group #11 — Sin and Its Curse

May 26, 2023 05:00 - 44.8 MB

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey turn to pp. 63–67 of Cornelius Van Til’s The Defense of the Faith to discuss the Christian theory of knowledge. In this section, Van Til speaks of the effects of sin and its curse upon human knowledge. Chapters Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Lane G. Tipton

Presbyterians, Assemblies, and Semicolons

May 19, 2023 11:59 - 45 MB

Brad Isbell joins Jim Cassidy, Ryan Noha, and Camden Bucey to preview the PCA General Assembly and its 50th Anniversary Celebration. After speaking about ecumenical relations and several overtures, the group gets into a “riveting” discussion regarding a semicolon in Westminster Confession of Faith 31.4. Mr. Isbell is a ruling elder at Covenant PCA in Oak Ridge, […]

Paul the Disciple in Acts

May 12, 2023 05:00 - 35.9 MB

Adam York speaks about discipleship in the book of Acts. As the church “beholds” the resurrected–ascended Christ by the proclamation of the apostolic word, it is empowered to bear witness to Christ even unto death, placing the world on trial while the church itself is tried by this world. Rev. York is pastor of Hope […]

Van Til Group #10 — Man’s Knowledge of the World

May 05, 2023 05:00 - 41.7 MB

Carlton Wynne, Lane Tipton, and Camden Bucey turn to pp. 58–63 of Cornelius Van Til’s The Defense of the Faith to discuss the Christian theory of knowledge. In this section, Van Til speaks of man’s knowledge of the world. Chapters Participants: Camden Bucey, Carlton Wynne, Lane G. Tipton

Hermeneutics and Homiletics

April 28, 2023 05:00 - 46.7 MB

Mark Winder, Jim Cassidy, and Camden Bucey discuss the relationship between hermeneutics and homiletics, focusing specifically on the preaching of Geerhardus Vos. Links Chapters Participants: Camden Bucey, Jim Cassidy, Mark A. Winder

Christianity and Liberalism: The Bible

April 21, 2023 05:00 - 41.9 MB

This is the 100th anniversary of the publication of J. Gresham Machen’s book, Christianity and Liberalism. Danny Olinger and Camden Bucey speak with Alan Strange about the fourth chapter of Machen’s classic, which addresses the Bible. In this chapter, Machen addresses those who would seek to maintain that what we hold in our hearts about Christ […]

Evangelism and Apologetics on the Boardwalk

April 14, 2023 05:00 - 41.3 MB

Join us on this episode of the podcast as we speak with Jim Zozzaro and Chris Byrd about the evangelism efforts of the Boardwalk Chapel in Wildwood, New Jersey. Established in the 1940s, the Boardwalk Chapel was founded with a vision to present the Gospel to the thousands of tourists that visit the Atlantic Ocean […]

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