Episodes 10 | Reformed Brotherhood

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb explore the theological significance of Christ's ascension as outlined in the Scots Confession. The hosts discuss the often-overlooked aspects of the ascension, emphasizing its importance in the broader framework of reformed theology. They delve into the themes of glorification, coronation, and ordination, explaining how these elements are crucial to understanding Christ's mediatorial role and its implications for salvation.

Tony reflects on his evangelical upbringing, noting that the ascension was often treated as an afterthought rather than a pivotal event in the life of Christ. Jesse adds that the ascension should be seen as an act of coronation and investiture of service, rather than merely Jesus' "retirement" to heaven. The hosts argue that the ascension completes the loop of Christ's redemptive work, affirming His power and authority over all things.

The episode also touches on how other reformed confessions, such as the Westminster Confession, integrate the theology of ascension. Tony and Jesse emphasize the importance of understanding the historical and theological context in which these confessions were written. They encourage listeners to engage deeply with these foundational documents to gain a fuller understanding of reformed theology.

Key Points:

The ascension is a crucial event in reformed theology, involving glorification, coronation, and ordination.
The ascension underscores Christ's mediatorial role and its implications for salvation.
The hosts discuss the lack of emphasis on the ascension in many evangelical contexts, urging a deeper reflection on its significance.
The episode explores how different reformed confessions, including the Westminster Confession, address the theology of ascension.
Understanding the historical and theological context of these confessions can enrich one's grasp of reformed beliefs.

Questions for Reflection:

Why is the ascension of Christ often overlooked in evangelical contexts?
How does the ascension complete the loop of Christ's redemptive work?
In what ways can understanding the theology of ascension deepen your appreciation of reformed theology?
What are the implications of Christ's ascension for His role as a mediator?
How do different reformed confessions address the theology of ascension, and why is this important?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb dive deep into the theological richness of the Scots Confession, focusing particularly on Jesus' victory over death. They discuss how the resurrection of saints at Jesus' crucifixion serves as a foretaste of the ultimate resurrection, emphasizing the miraculous nature of these events and their profound implications for Christian eschatology. By examining historical interpretations by figures such as Calvin and Knox, they bring to light the continuity and depth of Reformed theology.

The hosts explore the transformative power of the gospel, illustrating how the resurrection is not just a historical event but a living reality that brings new life to believers. They highlight the resurrection's role in regeneration, likening it to a renewal of life that foreshadows the ultimate resurrection at the end of times. Tony and Jesse also delve into the apologetic value of these events, demonstrating how they serve as a testament to the power and truth of Christ's resurrection.

Throughout the episode, the hosts engage in speculative yet insightful discussions, pondering the logistics and implications of these miraculous resurrections. They reflect on the nature of God's power and how it manifests in both spiritual and physical renewal. By integrating theological insights with practical reflections, they offer listeners a comprehensive understanding of the resurrection's significance in Christian theology.

Key Points:

The resurrection of saints at Jesus' crucifixion as a foretaste of the ultimate resurrection.
The transformative power of the gospel in bringing new life to believers.
The apologetic value of the resurrection events as a testament to Christ's power and truth.
Historical interpretations by Calvin and Knox on the resurrection's significance.
The speculative logistics and implications of miraculous resurrections.

Questions for Reflection:

How does the resurrection of saints at Jesus' crucifixion enhance our understanding of the ultimate resurrection?
In what ways does the transformative power of the gospel manifest in your life?
How can the apologetic value of resurrection events strengthen your faith and testimony?
What insights can we gain from historical interpretations of the resurrection by figures like Calvin and Knox?
How do the miraculous resurrections at Jesus' crucifixion foreshadow the eschatological hope for believers?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, hosts Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal delve into a rich theological discussion on the profound meaning of Christ's death, passion, and burial. Drawing from the Scots Confession, they explore the implications of Christ's priesthood in salvation and how it is interpreted within the framework of Reformed theology.

The hosts emphasize the transformative power of Christ's saving work, highlighting how it is not just about individual salvation but also about fulfilling God's promises to His Son. They stress the importance of understanding that Christ's salvation is secure and that He is for us, which means He can never be against us. This discussion provides a deep, insightful exploration of the Scriptures, the nature of God's promises, and the profound impact of Christ's sacrifice.

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts reflect on how Reformed theology fully captures the Biblical testimony that Christ is a Savior who actually saves. They argue that the testament to this truth lies in the fact that the only way our salvation is not secure is if God refuses the Son's request - a thought that is inconceivable and even blasphemous.

Key Points:

Reformed theology emphasizes the importance of understanding Christ as a Savior who actually saves and the central role of Christ's priesthood in salvation.
The fulfillment of God's promises to His Son and His people is crucial in understanding the depth of Christ's saving work.
Reformed theology fully accounts for the Biblical data, offering a comprehensive perspective on the transformative power of Christ's sacrifice.
Our salvation is secure in Christ, and the only way it is not is if God refuses the Son's request, which is inconceivable and blasphemous.
The hosts argue that the only system that fully articulates and accounts for the Biblical data on Christ's priesthood is Reformed theology.

Questions for Reflection:

How does understanding Christ as a Savior who actually saves deepen your faith and understanding of salvation?
Reflect on the significance of Christ's priesthood in salvation. How does it impact your personal relationship with God?
Consider the hosts' argument about Reformed theology fully accounting for the Biblical data. How does this perspective align with your understanding of the Scriptures?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood podcast, the hosts, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb, engage in a deep and insightful discussion on the concept of election as viewed through the lens of the Scotts Confession. The conversation delves into the profound implications that the theological concept of election has on ecclesiology, the study of the church, and soteriology, the study of salvation. The hosts examine the intricate relationship between the idea of election and the role of Jesus Christ as the perfect mediator.

The discussion further explores the embodiment of the concept of election in Christ, bringing to light the idea that election in the context of Reformed Theology is not a detached, abstract concept. Instead, it is intrinsically linked to the incarnation of Jesus Christ. This episode offers listeners a refreshing perspective on how theology is lived out in the incarnation and the practical impact of seeing election in the face of Christ.

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts reflect on the beauty and richness of the concept of election. They encourage listeners to appreciate how theology, especially the concept of election, is not just articulated in systematic theologies, but is lived out in the incarnation, in God coming to rescue His people. The episode ends with a powerful affirmation of Christ being central to the idea of election and the importance of His role as a mediator.

Key Points:

The concept of election has profound implications on ecclesiology and soteriology.
The embodiment of the concept of election is found in Christ, who also serves as the perfect mediator.
Theology, particularly the concept of election, is lived out in the incarnation, in God coming to rescue His people.
The concept of election goes beyond systematic theologies and is a practical reality seen in the face of Christ.
The role of Jesus in the theology of election is central and indispensable.

Questions for Reflection:

How does the concept of election impact your understanding of ecclesiology and soteriology?
How does viewing Christ as the embodiment of election change your perspective on the concept?
In what ways does the theology of election play out practically in your life?
How does the concept of election enhance your understanding of the incarnation and the role of Jesus as a mediator?
How can appreciating the richness of the concept of election deepen your faith?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, hosts Tony and Jesse delve into an in-depth discussion about the intimate connection between the incarnation of Jesus Christ and the concept of election, as elucidated in the Scott's Confession. They explore the profound theological implications of these intertwined principles, focusing on the role of Jesus as the perfect representative of both God and man.

The pair dive deep into the Scott's Confession, a historical document that offers a unique perspective on these theological concepts. They illuminate the significance of the incarnation and election within the context of reformed theology, providing insightful commentary on the Confession's interpretation of these themes.

The discussion closes with a reflection on the eternal nature of these theological principles. The hosts note the timeless relevance of these concepts, emphasizing that while they were articulated at a specific point in history, they remain eternally contemporary in the context of reformed theology.

Key Points:

The Scott's Confession provides a unique perspective on the intimate connection between the incarnation and the concept of election.
The incarnation of Jesus Christ is deeply intertwined with the concept of election in reformed theology.
Jesus serves as the perfect representative of both God and man, playing a crucial role in the concept of election.
The principles of incarnation and election, though articulated at a specific point in history, remain eternally contemporary in reformed theology.

Questions for Reflection:

How does the Scott's Confession interpret the connection between the incarnation and the concept of election?
What is the significance of Jesus being the perfect representative of both God and man in the context of election?
How do the principles of incarnation and election remain relevant in contemporary reformed theology?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, hosts Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb engage in a deep discussion about the Incarnation of Christ Jesus. They start by examining ancient heresies that have distorted the understanding of Christ's nature, underlining the importance of acknowledging both His divinity and humanity. The hosts emphasize that any belief system that denies these fundamental aspects of Christ is not only in error but also separates individuals from salvation.

Tony and Jesse further explore the Incarnation, referencing the Scotts Confession and various scriptural teachings. They draw from the Scriptures to explain the profound theological truths about Christ's Incarnation and the implications of these truths for the Christian faith. The episode culminates in a call to action for Christians to defend the Gospel, affirming that in its defense, we find our greatest joy and God's glory is affirmed.

In addition, the hosts discuss the importance of supporting the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast and express their appreciation for their listeners' support. They emphasize that the podcast can only continue to explore such deep theological topics because of the financial contributions from their listeners.

Key Points:

Understanding the Incarnation of Christ Jesus involves acknowledging both His divinity and humanity.
Ancient heresies that deny these fundamental aspects of Christ are in error and can separate individuals from salvation.
The Scotts Confession and various scriptural teachings provide profound theological truths about Christ's Incarnation.
Christians are called to defend the Gospel, as it is in its defense that we find our greatest joy and affirm God's glory.

Questions for Reflection:

How does understanding the Incarnation of Christ Jesus, in both His divinity and humanity, deepen your faith?
Why is it important to identify and reject ancient heresies that deny the fundamental aspects of Christ?
How can you actively defend the Gospel in your daily life?
In what ways does defending the Gospel lead to the affirmation of God's glory?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, hosts Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb engage in a deep and insightful discussion about the Scots Confession and its relevance to contemporary reformed theology. They delve into the theological richness of the confession and its profound implications for understanding the promise of the Father and the work of Jesus Christ in our salvation.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the concept of being "in Christ". The hosts discuss the Incarnation, the election in Christ, and the overarching narrative of salvation. They explore how the Scots Confession beautifully articulates the transformative power of being united with Christ and the promise of eternal life that comes with it.

Towards the end, the discussion shifts to the implications of the confession for modern believers. They emphasize the importance of understanding and appreciating the historical and theological context of the confession. The episode concludes with a reflection on the enduring relevance of the Scots Confession and its capacity to enrich our understanding of reformed theology.

Key Points:

The Scots Confession is a valuable resource for understanding reformed theology, particularly the concepts of the promise of the Father and the role of Jesus Christ in our salvation.
Being "in Christ" is a profound reality that transforms our understanding of salvation and promise.
The Incarnation and the election in Christ are central to the narrative of salvation as outlined in the Scots Confession.
The confession offers a fresh perspective on historical and theological aspects of reformed theology.
Understanding the context and implications of the Scots Confession can enrich our personal faith and theological understanding.

Questions for Reflection:

How does the Scots Confession deepen your understanding of the promise of the Father and the role of Jesus Christ in our salvation?
What does it mean to be "in Christ" and how does this concept transform our understanding of salvation and promise?
How does the Incarnation and the election in Christ contribute to the overarching narrative of salvation as outlined in the Scots Confession?
How can we apply the historical and theological insights from the Scots Confession to our personal faith and theological understanding?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, hosts Tony and Jesse delve into the theology of the Scot's Confession, specifically focusing on Chapter 5. The discussion primarily revolves around the interpretation of God's promise and its connection to the identity of the Church. The hosts take a deep dive into the text, examining its layers and discussing its implications for today's believers.

The conversation also touches on the role of covenant baptism and its significance in the Church. The hosts contemplate the beauty and simplicity of primitive theology and its ability to convey profound truths in an accessible manner. This episode provides a refreshing perspective on well-trodden theological ground and offers listeners an opportunity to examine their faith through a different lens.

The episode ends with a discussion on the perseverance of the church and the deep-rooted promise of God's salvation. The hosts explore the concept of the Church's perseverance as a logical outcome of God's promise. They also talk about how the nature of the promise itself logically entails the preservation and perseverance of the saints and the Church.

Key Points:

The Scot's Confession interprets God's promise as being deeply connected to the identity of the Church.
Primitive theology, despite its simplicity, conveys profound truths that are relevant to today's believers.
The concept of the Church's perseverance is a logical outcome of God's promise.
The nature of God's promise logically entails the preservation and perseverance of the saints and the Church.
The episode provides a fresh perspective on Reformed thought, making it a must-listen for followers of this branch of theology.

Questions for Reflection:

How does the interpretation of God's promise in the Scot's Confession deepen your understanding of the Church's identity?
In what ways does the simplicity of primitive theology enhance its effectiveness in conveying profound truths?
How does the concept of the Church's perseverance as a logical outcome of God's promise resonate with your understanding of your faith journey?
Reflect on how the nature of the promise itself logically entails the preservation and perseverance of the saints and the Church. How does this align with your understanding of God's promise?

Links:

Logos Affiliate Link: https://www.reformedbrotherhood.com/logos

Black Flies: https://extension.unh.edu/resource/black-flies-fact-sheet

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, hosts Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal explore the fourth chapter of the Scots Confession, providing a detailed and insightful analysis. The hosts delve into the promises of God, emphasizing their cosmic scope and highlighting how they encompass not just personal salvation, but also the redemption of the entire world. They discuss the profound significance of these promises and how they are fulfilled through Christ.

The conversation then shifts to the role of the Holy Spirit in this grand narrative of salvation. The hosts discuss how the Holy Spirit equips believers to fight against the devil's influence, providing them not just with strength for the day, but also hope for the future. The role of the Holy Spirit in providing the perseverance of the saints, particularly in the mundane and challenging aspects of daily life, is also touched upon.

Towards the end of the episode, the hosts delve into the unity of God's people throughout history. They discuss how the Old Testament saints were also saved by the same means and the same path as current believers - through faith in Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. This episode provides a rich exploration of faith, redemption, and the depth of the Scriptures, making it an ideal listen for those exploring Reformed theology or seeking a deeper understanding of the Scots Confession.

Key Points:

The promises of God encompass the cosmic scope of salvation, including the redemption of the entire world.
The Holy Spirit equips believers to fight against the devil's influence, providing them with strength for the day and hope for the future.
Old Testament saints were saved by the same means and the same path as current believers - through faith in Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Salvation involves not just personal redemption, but also the destruction of the devil's works in the world.
Despite the brokenness of the world, there is the promise of its ultimate undoing and remaking through Christ.

Questions for Reflection:

How does understanding the cosmic scope of salvation deepen your faith?
In what ways have you experienced the Holy Spirit equipping you to fight against the devil's influence in your daily life?
How does the unity of God's people throughout history impact your understanding of the Church and your place within it?
Reflect on the promise of the world's undoing and remaking through Christ. How does this shape your perspective on the current state of the world?
Considering the discussion on the Scots Confession, how does it resonate with your understanding of Reformed theology?

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In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb dissect the concept of original sin as interpreted from the Scot's Confession. The duo examines the significant role of intentionality in our fallen state, drawing insightful parallels with the sins we commit in our modern lives.

The conversation dives into the volitional aspects of original sin, shedding light on how our conscious choices contribute to the sins we commit. Tony and Jesse argue that we are not just passive victims of sin; rather, we actively choose sin, thus needing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in our sanctification process.

Lastly, the episode highlights the profound grace of the Savior, emphasizing that the redemption offered by Christ is far greater than what we lost in Adam. It reminds us that the understanding of our fallen state leads us directly to the Gospel, pointing to what God has done for us and what it means to trust in Christ.

Key Points:

Original sin is not just about the sins we inherit but about the sins we actively choose.
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in our sanctification process, helping us choose righteous acts over sinful ones.
The redemption offered by Christ is greater than what we lost in Adam, and understanding our fallen state leads us directly to the Gospel.

Questions for Reflection:

In what ways do you see the role of intentionality in your own sin?
How has the Holy Spirit helped you in your sanctification process?
How does understanding your fallen state lead you closer to the Gospel and deepen your trust in Christ?