Explore every episode of the podcast Reformed Academy
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The True Witness (John 16) | The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth (Chapters 11–21) (Lesson 6) | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:31:26 | |
This is the sixth lesson in Dr. James J. Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 Faithful Witness under Persecution 03:24 The Disciples' Sorrow and Jesus's Provision 08:01 Pentecost and the Giving of the Spirit 11:13 The Church's Witness and the Spirit's Work of Conviction 18:28 The Inspired and Infallible Word of God 23:49 Sorrow Turned to Joy Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/gospel-of-john-a-study-in-the-truth-chapters-11-21 Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #truth #gospel #reformedtheology #biblestudy | |||
| The True Vine (John 15) | The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth (Chapters 11–21) (Lesson 5) | 25 May 2026 | 00:28:36 | |
This is the fifth lesson in Dr. James J. Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 The True Vine Discourse (vv. 1–17) 17:07 Abiding in the Vine amidst the Hatred of the World (vv. 18–27) Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/go... Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Heavenly High Priesthood in the Book of Hebrews Pt 1 | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 10) | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:19:05 | |
This is the tenth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers The Kephalaion or Central Point of Hebrews, Dennison on Hebrews 2:5, 3:1, and 8:1, The Theme of the World to Come in Hebrews 2:5, and The Program of Christ as Our Great Apostle and High Priest. | |||
| Jesus and Heavenly Mount Zion | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 9) | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:37:34 | |
This is the ninth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers Heavenly Mount Zion, the Convergence of God's Self-Revelation and Permanent Dwellin, The Verticalizing Movement in Hebrews 12:22–24, A Biblical Theology of the Mountains of God: Eden, A Biblical Theology of the Mountains of God: Ararat, and A Biblical Theology of the Mountains of God: Moriah. | |||
| Moses and Earthly Mount Sinai | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 8) | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:24:31 | |
This is the eighth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers The Contrast Between Two Mountains, Reading of Exodus 24, Mount Sinai's Three-Fold Partitioning Reflected in the Tabernacle, and Moses' Ascent Up the Mountain. | |||
| Sabbath Rest in Hebrews 3:7–4:11: Millennial Views | The History of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 7) | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:30:07 | |
This is the seventh lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers Author of Hebrews Is Not a Premillennialist, Author of Hebrews Is Not Postmillennialist, Gaffin on the Usefulness of the Cross, and Amillennialism on Suffering in Christ as Redemptive Blessing. | |||
| Sabbath Rest in Hebrews 3:7–4:11: Use of Psalm 95:7–11 | The History of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 6) | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:31:15 | |
This is the sixth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers the Wilderness-Testing and Land-Resting Paradigm, Analogical Application to the Church, the Church as Wilderness Community of Strangers and Exiles, and the Use of Psalm 95:7–11 in Hebrews 3:7–4:11. | |||
| Sabbath Rest in Hebrews 3:7–4:11: Use of Genesis 2:2 | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 5) | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:44:47 | |
This is the fifth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers the Reading of Hebrews 3:7–4:11, Introductory Comments and Observations, the History of Heaven, and the Use of Genesis 2:2 in Hebrews 4:4. | |||
| The Land of Canaan and Typology in Hebrews 11:8–16 | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 4) | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:39:36 | |
This is the fourth lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers the Order of the Texts and the Path of Redemptive History, the Call of Abram, True Religion and the Symbol of the Altar, and the Land of Canaan and Typology in Hebrews 11:8–16. | |||
| Heaven in the New Beginning: In Christ's Ascension | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 3) | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:16:56 | |
This is the third lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers the Biblical Account of the Ascension in Acts 1:9–11, the Ascended and Enthroned Christ in Colossians 3:1–2, Hebrews 8:1 and Revelation 4, and Christ's Exaltation and the Outpouring of the Spirit in Acts 2:32–33. | |||
| Encoronation and the Primordial Dwelling Place of God | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 2) | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:20:37 | |
This is the second lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers Colossians and the Expanded Interpretation of Genesis 1:1, Encoronation and Endoxation Related, and Psalm 104. | |||
| Heaven as the Primordial Dwelling Place of God | The Theology of Heaven in Hebrews (Lesson 1) | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:27:29 | |
This is the first lesson in Dr. Lane G. Tipton's Reformed Academy course, The Theology of Heaven in the Book of Hebrews. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 Vos on the Relation and Distinction Between Heaven and Earth 10:32 Vos on Heaven as the Supreme Reality 14:21 Kline on the Endoxation of the Holy Spirit Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/theology-of-heaven-in-the-book-of-hebrews Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Our True Home (John 14) | The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth (Chapters 11–21) (Lesson 4) | 18 May 2026 | 00:26:07 | |
This is the fourth lesson in Dr. James J. Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 A Word of Comfort for Anxious Disciples 05:44 Christ's Departure and Return: Preparing Our True Home 09:14 Seeing the Father in the Face of Jesus Christ 13:15 Jesus Gives His Spirit to the Church Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/go... Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The Structure of Church Government, Part 2 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 7) | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:35:34 | |
This is the seventh and final lesson in Dr. James Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Doctrine of the Church. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 On Gender and Church Office 08:50 The Connected Church 15:33 Areas of Jurisdiction: Governing Doctrine 25:04 Areas of Jurisdiction: Governing Worship 31:10 Areas of Jurisdiction: Government and Discipline 33:58 Conclusion Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/doctrine-of-the-church Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The Structure of Church Government, Part 1 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 6) | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:42:47 | |
This is the sixth lesson in Dr. James Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Doctrine of the Church. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 The Structure of Church Government: Preliminary Considerations 11:32 The Elders: Preliminary Considerations 15:40 Presbuteroi 28:08 How Many Offices? 34:05 Overseers (Episkopos) 37:03 The Deacons Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/doctrine-of-the-church Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Church Power and Authority, Part 2 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 5) | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:45:27 | |
This is the fifth lesson in Dr. James Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Doctrine of the Church. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 Church Power is Suasive, not Coercive 15:21 Church Power is Service, not Domination 19:01 Church Power is Spiritual, not Carnal 23:00 Church Power is Ministerial, not Magisterial 26:17 Church Power is Declarative, not Legislative 28:18 Church Power is Derived, not Original 30:40 The Spirituality of the Church Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/doctrine-of-the-church Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Church Power and Authority, Part 1 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 4) | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:31:51 | |
This is the fourth lesson in Dr. James Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Doctrine of the Church. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 Christ, the Only Head of the Church 10:16 The Keys of the Kingdom: Preliminary Considerations 17:24 The Keys of the Kingdom: The View of Rome 19:50 The Keys of the Kingdom: The Reformed View Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/doctrine-of-the-church Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| What Is the Church? Part 3 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 3) | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:24:49 | |
This is the third lesson in Dr. James Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Doctrine of the Church. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 The Attributes of the Church: The Church as Catholic 05:18 The Attributes of the Church: The Church as Apostolic 12:53 The Marks of the Church: The Faithful Proclamation of the Word 18:46 The Marks of the Church: The Correct Administration of the Sacraments 22:06 The Marks of the Church: The Exercise of Church Discipline Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/doctrine-of-the-church Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| What Is the Church? Part 2 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 2) | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:30:00 | |
This is the second lesson in Dr. James Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Doctrine of the Church. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 The Church Militant and the Church Triumphant 04:51 The Church as Organization and Organism 10:13 Ecumenicity 19:51 The Attributes of the Church: The Church as Holy Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/doctrine-of-the-church Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| What Is the Church? Part 1 | The Doctrine of the Church (Lesson 1) | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:32:28 | |
This is the first lesson in Dr. James Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Doctrine of the Church. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 The Church as the Covenant Assembly 07:18 The Church as the Dwelling Place of God 15:12 The Church as God's Chosen People 19:00 The Attributes of the Church: The Church as One 25:38 The Visible Church and the Invisible Church Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/doctrine-of-the-church Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Worship and Lawful Oaths and Vows | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 12) | 24 Nov 2025 | 00:57:45 | |
This is the twelfth lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 3:25 Old Testament Laws on Oaths and Vows 13:08 Old Testament Literary Forms of Oaths and Vows 19:30 The Faithful Vows of Jacob, Israel, and Hannah 27:07 The Negative Examples of Jephthah and Absalom 33:45 Oaths as Covenant Commitments 41:16 The Nazirite Vow 47:46 Oaths and Vows in the New Testament Epoch Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Worship and Tithing | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 11) | 17 Nov 2025 | 01:01:31 | |
This is the eleventh lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 3:58 Tithing in the Patriarchal Narratives 13:59 Tithing in the Mosaic Era 26:40 Tithing in Malachi 33:26 Giving in the New Testament 40:15 Giving as a Continuing Act of Worship 53:08 Concluding Observations Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Communion with God in Prayer | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Less. 10) | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:50:15 | |
This is the tenth lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 What is Prayer? 10:02 Old Testament Prayer Narratives 24:20 The Role of Prayer in Liturgical Ascent 33:36 New Covenant Prayer and Christ's Heavenly Intercession Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| True Purification (John 13) | The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth (Chapters 11–21) (Lesson 3) | 11 May 2026 | 00:27:57 | |
This is the third lesson in Dr. James J. Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 Introduction and Placement of John 13 01:22 Jesus's Foot Washing and the Redemptive Cleansing of the Cross 13:20 Judas's Betrayal in Fulfillment of Psalm 41 20:23 The New Commandment to Love One Another Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/go... Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Worship and Psalms | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 9) | 03 Nov 2025 | 01:07:55 | |
This is the ninth lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Heavenly Worship through Song 8:05 Songs in Redemptive History from Adam to Moses 22:04 David, The Psalter, and Temple Worship 46:23 Singing in the New Testament Era 1:00:37 The Regulative Principle and Exclusive Psalmody Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Worship and the Sabbath Rest | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 8) | 26 Oct 2025 | 00:44:04 | |
This is the eighth lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Sabbath as Creation Ordinance 14:28 The When of Worship in the Patriarchal Period 17:09 Mosaic Legislation about the When of Worship 28:58 The Lord's Day as Christian Sabbath 37:08 Answering Objections Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Worship and the Visible Word | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 7) | 19 Oct 2025 | 00:49:58 | |
This is the seventh lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Old Testament Baptisms as Water Ordeals 24:36 New Covenant Baptism as a Water Ordeal 31:34 The Lord's Supper and Feasting on the Mountain of God Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Worship and the Word | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 6) | 13 Oct 2025 | 00:53:44 | |
This is the sixth lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Pre-Fall Worship 14:07 Satan's Idolatrous Attack 30:40 God's Gracious Word Governs Post-Fall Worship 33:16 The Prophets' Role in Redemptive History 43:48 The New Covenant Requirement of Word-Based Worship Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Worship on the Holy Mountain | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 5) | 06 Oct 2025 | 01:00:56 | |
This is the fifth lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Archetypal Heavenly Temple in Genesis 1:1–2 12:29 Creation in General as Protological Temple in Genesis 1 20:18 Eden in Particular as Protological Temple in Genesis 2 27:47 Postlapsarian Worshipful Ascent up God's Holy Mountain 39:19 Revelation Concerning the Tabernacle and Temple 52:23 Christ's Ascent into Heaven through Sacrifice Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The Object and Subject of Worship | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 4) | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:48:59 | |
This is the fourth lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 God's Incommunicable Attributes 9:25 God's Communicable Attributes 17:51 Theology Proper and the Regulative Principle of Worship 23:34 The Image of God and Worship 41:58 Worship in Light of the Fall and Redemption Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The Regulative Principle of Worship and Redemptive History | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 3) | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:40:54 | |
This is the third lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 The Importance of Biblical Theology for Worship 2:56 What is Biblical Theology? 15:23 Errors of Continuity 26:08 Errors of Discontinuity 32:17 The Significance of Redemptive History for Understanding Worship Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| What Is the Regulative Principle of Worship? | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 2) | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:44:13 | |
This is the second lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 The Regulative Principle of Worship 6:41 The Ten Commandments and the Regulative Principle of Worship 19:36 Exodus 32 and Leviticus 10 30:10 Elements, Forms, and Circumstances of Worship 41:59 Answering an Objection to the Regulative Principle of Worship Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| What Is Worship? | Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship (Lesson 1) | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:33:05 | |
This is the first lesson in Dr. William Wood's Reformed Academy course, Redemptive History and the Regulative Principle of Worship. This lesson covers the following topics: 0:00 Introduction 10:26 Review of the Literature on Worship 14:43 Broad and Narrow Concepts of Worship 23:41 Definition and Features of Worship 30:28 The Importance of Humility Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/redemptive-history-and-the-regulative-principle-of-worship Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Conclusion: A Vision for Faithful Apologetics | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 12) | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:03:51 | |
This is the twelfth lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. In the final lesson, we bring the threads together by affirming that faithful apologetics must be rooted in a comprehensive Christ-centered worldview. You will be reminded that defending the faith is not merely about technique but about seeing all of life through the "spectacles of Scripture." From metaphysics to ethics, Christ's lordship governs our understanding and our witness. This conclusion encourages you to press on in the calling of 1 Peter 3:15—to make a defense for the hope within you—with clarity, humility, and unwavering trust in the sufficiency of God's word. Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The True Light (John 12) | The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth (Chapters 11–21) (Lesson 2) | 04 May 2026 | 00:36:14 | |
This is the second lesson in Dr. James J. Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 The Theme of Light 02:14 The Light Exposes the Darkness through an Empty Perfume Jar (vv. 1–11) 12:35 The Light Exposes the Darkness through the Triumphal Entry (vv. 12–26) 22:45 Jesus Is the True Light (vv. 27–50) Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/go... Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Providing Testimony: The Role of Proof and Evidence | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 11) | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:26:21 | |
This is the eleventh lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. Does proof have a place in a Reformed apologetic? In this lesson, we explore the proper use of evidence in defending the faith—not as a neutral tool but as a witness to divine truth when interpreted within the framework of Scripture. You will learn how logical arguments and historical evidences can support the gospel without compromising the authority of God's word. By examining biblical examples and distinguishing between uses of proofs that submit to God's revelation and those that presume autonomy, this lesson equips you to present compelling, faithful testimony to the truth of the risen Christ.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Standing Firm: Engaging in Spiritual Conflict | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 10) | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:26:09 | |
This is the tenth lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. Apologetics is not merely intellectual—it's spiritual warfare. In this lesson, we consider how to stand firm in the face of opposition, clinging to the truth of God's word and the hope we have in Christ. You will learn how to engage others with boldness and Christlike character, especially in moments of suffering or ridicule. We explore the role of the heart, the importance of gentleness and respect, and the need for readiness to follow conversations wherever they lead. Grounded in 1 Peter 3:15, this lesson prepares you to endure with faith and to speak the truth in love amid a hostile world.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The Implementation Plan: Developing an Apologetic Method | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 9) | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:23:55 | |
This is the ninth lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. How do we put all the pieces together to faithfully defend our hope? In this lesson, we turn from theological foundations to practical methodology. You will learn how to construct a biblical and Reformed approach to apologetics—one that maintains the antithesis without compromise and resists conforming to unbelieving patterns of thought. We examine the two-step method, emphasizing internal critique and gospel proclamation, and contrast it with evidentialist, classical, and cumulative case approaches. Whether you are in a coffee shop or a classroom, this lesson equips you to defend the faith with theological integrity and practical confidence.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Starting Points: The Role of Presuppositions | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 8) | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:26:39 | |
This is the eighth lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. What fundamental commitments lie beneath every argument—ours and others'? In this lesson, we explore the essential concept of presuppositions: the foundational beliefs that shape how people interpret reality. We begin by surveying a range of influential thinkers who challenge the notion of objective, neutral knowledge. Though differing in emphasis, each demonstrate that human understanding is always shaped by deeper frameworks: whether through paradigms that govern scientific inquiry, social structures that define reality, or systems of power that shape what is accepted as truth. Building on this recognition, we turn to Cornelius Van Til, who shows that beneath all such frameworks lie ultimate commitments—religious in nature—that govern how people interpret every aspect of life. This lesson equips you to uncover the presuppositions behind objections to the faith and to expose the necessity of the Christian worldview as the only foundation for truth, meaning, and rationality.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The Bridge: Finding a Connection through Common Grace | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 7) | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:43:08 | |
This is the seventh lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. Is there any shared ground between believers and unbelievers? In this lesson, we explore the doctrine of common grace—the means by which God, in his goodness, temporarily restrains judgment and bestows non-saving blessings even on those who remain in rebellion against him. You will discover how this temporary, non-saving grace provides space for meaningful interaction, cultural engagement, and the proclamation of the gospel. Drawing from biblical and theological insights, including historical reflections from Calvin, Warfield, Kuyper, and Van Til, we examine how common grace enables communication without compromising the antithesis. Learn how to faithfully build bridges without erasing the gospel's call to repentance and faith.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The Great Divide: Life in and outside of Christ | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 6) | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:36:06 | |
This is the sixth lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. Why is there such a stark contrast between the worldview of the believer and that of the unbeliever? This lesson addresses the theological concept of the antithesis—the fundamental spiritual divide between those in Christ and those outside of him. You will learn how this distinction, rooted in covenant representation and union with Christ, shapes every aspect of life and apologetic engagement. By understanding the nature of regeneration, resurrection life, and our new identity in Christ, we are better prepared to witness to the truth with clarity and conviction, while holding fast to the hope of God's redemptive purpose for his people.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Bearers of His Image: The Doctrine of Man | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 5) | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:39:33 | |
This is the fifth lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. What does it mean to be human? This lesson explores the doctrine of man, centered on the profound reality of being created in God's image. We discover how this divine image manifests in official, formal, and ethical dimensions, shaping our knowledge, dignity, and purpose. Through the lens of covenant theology and Reformed thought, we investigate humanity's original condition, the impact of sin, and the enduring significance of bearing God's image. This foundational understanding strengthens apologetics by illuminating the connection between believers and nonbelievers, affirming that all people exist coram Deo—in the presence of God.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| God Speaks: The Doctrine of Revelation | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 4) | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:38:00 | |
This is the fourth lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. How can we know the God we seek to defend? In this lesson, we explore the doctrine of revelation—God's gracious self-disclosure to humanity. You will learn the crucial distinction between general revelation, seen in creation and providence, and special revelation, given through Scripture and ultimately in Jesus Christ. This lesson lays a foundation for understanding why divine revelation is necessary for knowledge, faith, and apologetics. By examining how revelation reveals God's character, will, and redemptive purposes, you will be equipped to uphold the authority of Scripture and the sufficiency of Christ in the face of skepticism and competing truth claims.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| The One We Defend: The Doctrine of God | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 3) | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:35:15 | |
This is the third lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. Before we can defend the Christian faith, we must know the God we are defending. This lesson explores the heart of Christian apologetics: the doctrine of God. We explore the nature and attributes of the triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—as revealed in Scripture and expressed in the Reformed tradition. From God's simplicity and independence to his communicable and incommunicable attributes, we see how every aspect of his character undergirds our hope. Learn how the Trinity shapes our understanding of reality, strengthens our confidence in the gospel, and compels us to a bold yet humble defense of the faith in a world longing for ultimate truth.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/defending-our-hope Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ | |||
| Seeing Clearly: Shaping a Biblical Worldview | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 2) | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:47:38 | |
This is the second lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. How do we perceive reality accurately amidst competing perspectives? This lesson examines worldviews and explores how everyone—whether consciously or not—interprets life through fundamental beliefs. You will learn how Scripture, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, serves as a lens bringing spiritual clarity to metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics. Based on Colossians and the Reformed tradition, we compare the Christ-centered worldview with philosophical approaches grounded solely in human reasoning. This lesson enhances your understanding of worldviews, strengthens your ability to identify inconsistencies in contrary perspectives, and empowers you to articulate a gospel-centered understanding of reality with confidence.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than two dozen more video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/defending-our-hope-an-introduction-to-christian-apologetics/ Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #apologetics #evangelism #presupp | |||
| Seeking a Better Country (John 11) | The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth (Ch. 11–21) (Lesson 1) | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:27:44 | |
This is the first lesson in Dr. James J. Cassidy's Reformed Academy course, The Gospel of John: A Study in the Truth. This lesson covers the following topics: 00:00 The Concept of Truth in John's Gospel 01:58 Jesus Comes to Give a Better Life (vv. 1–44) 19:30 Jesus Brings a Better Country (vv. 45–57) Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to dozens of additional video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedacademy.org/course/gospel-of-john-a-study-in-the-truth-chapters-11-21 Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #truth #gospel #reformedtheology #biblestudy | |||
| Foundations of Hope: Understanding Apologetics | Defending Our Hope (Lesson 1) | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:26:31 | |
This is the first lesson in Dr. Camden Bucey's Reformed Academy course, Defending Our Hope: An Introduction to Christian Apologetics. What does it mean to defend our hope in a world filled with doubt and competing worldviews? In this opening lesson, you will be introduced to the discipline of apologetics—not as an academic abstraction but as a deeply personal, biblically grounded calling for every believer. Drawing from 1 Peter 3:15, we explore how the hope of Christ's resurrection transforms the way we engage with others, and why a distinctly Reformed approach—centered on Scripture, the sovereignty of God, and covenant theology—offers a robust framework for defending the faith with gentleness and respect. This lesson sets the foundation for a life of confident and compassionate witness.
Register for this free on-demand course on our website to track your progress, download supplemental resources, and assess your understanding through quizzes for each lesson. You will also receive free access to more than two dozen more video courses in covenant theology, apologetics, biblical studies, church history, and more: https://reformedforum.org/courses/defending-our-hope-an-introduction-to-christian-apologetics/ Camden Bucey (MDiv, PhD) is Executive Director of Reformed Forum and a minister of Hope Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Grayslake, Illinois. He is the author of Karl Rahner (Great Thinkers) and Lamentations, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: A 12-Week Study. Your donations help us to provide free Reformed resources for students like you worldwide: https://reformedforum.org/donate/ #apologetics #evangelism #presupp | |||
| [2 Peter] The End of the Path: The Entrance (1:11–15) | 13 Feb 2023 | 00:25:18 | |
This episode is a lesson from Exploring 2 Peter: The Promise and the Path, a course taught by Daniel Ragusa. Daniel Ragusa is the pastor of Messiah's Reformed Fellowship (URCNA) in New York City. He received his M.Div. from Mid-America Reformed Seminary and is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Westminster Theological Seminary. In this course, Rev. Ragusa explores 2 Peter with special attention to Peter’s use of redemptive history in his depiction and defense of the Christian life as oriented toward Christ and the future. By the righteousness of Jesus Christ, we have embarked on an eschatological pilgrimage down a path out of this world (1:4) and into his eternal kingdom (1:11). But along the path are cunning enemies, scoffers and mockers, who would cause us to turn back in unbelief, misattributing eternity to the present world order rather than to the kingdom (3:4). Alert to this danger, Peter mounts a defense that will endure these “last days” (3:3) in which we find ourselves by reminding the church of Christ’s promise to come again in power with new heavens and a new earth—a promise given long ago through the prophet Isaiah (1:4; 3:13) but now more fully confirmed by the corroborating witness of the apostles (1:19; 3:1–2). Peter exhorts the church not to overlook the Holy Spirit-inspired history of special revelation as it foreshadows this coming reality (1:21), including Noah and the flood (2:5), Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (2:6–8), the restraint of Balaam (2:15–16), the approaching Day of the Lord (3:11), and even the transfiguration of Jesus Christ on the mountain as a witness to his royal sonship (1:17–18). This course will demonstrate what Geerhardus Vos meant when he said, “The Bible is not a dogmatic handbook but a historical book full of dramatic interest.” It will also explain the typological use of the Old Testament. Finally, it will shape and transform us as our minds are set on the eternal kingdom—where Jesus is and so our hearts too. Video lessons and supporting course materials are available at https://reformedforum.org/courses/exploring-2-peter-the-promise-and-the-path/ | |||
| [2 Peter] The Middle of the Path: The Endeavor (1:5–10) | 06 Feb 2023 | 00:36:30 | |
This episode is a lesson from Exploring 2 Peter: The Promise and the Path, a course taught by Daniel Ragusa. Daniel Ragusa is the pastor of Messiah's Reformed Fellowship (URCNA) in New York City. He received his M.Div. from Mid-America Reformed Seminary and is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Westminster Theological Seminary. In this course, Rev. Ragusa explores 2 Peter with special attention to Peter’s use of redemptive history in his depiction and defense of the Christian life as oriented toward Christ and the future. By the righteousness of Jesus Christ, we have embarked on an eschatological pilgrimage down a path out of this world (1:4) and into his eternal kingdom (1:11). But along the path are cunning enemies, scoffers and mockers, who would cause us to turn back in unbelief, misattributing eternity to the present world order rather than to the kingdom (3:4). Alert to this danger, Peter mounts a defense that will endure these “last days” (3:3) in which we find ourselves by reminding the church of Christ’s promise to come again in power with new heavens and a new earth—a promise given long ago through the prophet Isaiah (1:4; 3:13) but now more fully confirmed by the corroborating witness of the apostles (1:19; 3:1–2). Peter exhorts the church not to overlook the Holy Spirit-inspired history of special revelation as it foreshadows this coming reality (1:21), including Noah and the flood (2:5), Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (2:6–8), the restraint of Balaam (2:15–16), the approaching Day of the Lord (3:11), and even the transfiguration of Jesus Christ on the mountain as a witness to his royal sonship (1:17–18). This course will demonstrate what Geerhardus Vos meant when he said, “The Bible is not a dogmatic handbook but a historical book full of dramatic interest.” It will also explain the typological use of the Old Testament. Finally, it will shape and transform us as our minds are set on the eternal kingdom—where Jesus is and so our hearts too. Video lessons and supporting course materials are available at https://reformedforum.org/courses/exploring-2-peter-the-promise-and-the-path/ | |||
| [2 Peter] The Beginning of the Path: The Escape (1:3–4) | 30 Jan 2023 | 00:36:10 | |
This episode is a lesson from Exploring 2 Peter: The Promise and the Path, a course taught by Daniel Ragusa. Daniel Ragusa is the pastor of Messiah's Reformed Fellowship (URCNA) in New York City. He received his M.Div. from Mid-America Reformed Seminary and is currently a Ph.D. candidate at Westminster Theological Seminary. In this course, Rev. Ragusa explores 2 Peter with special attention to Peter’s use of redemptive history in his depiction and defense of the Christian life as oriented toward Christ and the future. By the righteousness of Jesus Christ, we have embarked on an eschatological pilgrimage down a path out of this world (1:4) and into his eternal kingdom (1:11). But along the path are cunning enemies, scoffers and mockers, who would cause us to turn back in unbelief, misattributing eternity to the present world order rather than to the kingdom (3:4). Alert to this danger, Peter mounts a defense that will endure these “last days” (3:3) in which we find ourselves by reminding the church of Christ’s promise to come again in power with new heavens and a new earth—a promise given long ago through the prophet Isaiah (1:4; 3:13) but now more fully confirmed by the corroborating witness of the apostles (1:19; 3:1–2). Peter exhorts the church not to overlook the Holy Spirit-inspired history of special revelation as it foreshadows this coming reality (1:21), including Noah and the flood (2:5), Lot and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (2:6–8), the restraint of Balaam (2:15–16), the approaching Day of the Lord (3:11), and even the transfiguration of Jesus Christ on the mountain as a witness to his royal sonship (1:17–18). This course will demonstrate what Geerhardus Vos meant when he said, “The Bible is not a dogmatic handbook but a historical book full of dramatic interest.” It will also explain the typological use of the Old Testament. Finally, it will shape and transform us as our minds are set on the eternal kingdom—where Jesus is and so our hearts too. Video lessons and supporting course materials are available at https://reformedforum.org/courses/exploring-2-peter-the-promise-and-the-path/ | |||