The Daily Theologian

In this episode, Tim Berg and I sit down once again to tackle a foundational question: What actually makes someone a Baptist? We walk through the common misconceptions—especially the popular BAPTIST acronym—and examine where those categories fall short as true defining markers. Rather than settling for surface-level distinctives, we explore a historically rooted understanding of Baptist identity grounded in doctrine, church polity, covenant membership, and confessional theology. Along the way, we clarify key terms, address widespread misunderstandings, and challenge assumptions many of us grew up with. Even if you think you already know what makes someone Baptist, the answers may surprise you—and reshape how you think about Baptist history and identity moving forward. If you call yourself a Baptist, this conversation is essential for helping you preserve theological clarity, historical integrity, and faithfulness to the convictions that shape your denominational identity.00:00:08 - Intro00:06:10 - Various Definitions of “Baptist”00:17:58 - The BAPTISTS Acronym 00:23:26 - Priesthood of THE Believer vs ALL Believers00:31:01 - Sacraments vs Ordinances 00:39:35 - ISTS (Finishing the Acronym)00:47:26 - Critiquing the BAPTISTS Acronym01:01:54 - Did Baptists always Immerse?01:22:37 - Various Positions on the Lord’s Supper01:41:32 - Summarizing Problems with the Acronym 01:51:38 - An Alternative Definition Rooted in History02:56:03 - Conclusion & ResourcesBIBLIOGRAPHY: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1A...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Leighton Flowers to discuss Calvinism, Provisionism, and the long-standing theological questions surrounding divine sovereignty and human responsibility. Dr. Flowers shares his personal journey from being a committed Calvinist to becoming one of the leading voices defending a non-Calvinistic soteriology. We explore the core claims of Calvinism, Arminianism, and Pelagianism. Dr. Flowers carefully walks through Romans 9, examining how this pivotal chapter should be interpreted and he rejects its traditional Calvinistic reading. This discussion engages both the philosophical and biblical dimensions of the issue, challenging listeners to think carefully about sovereignty, grace, free will, and the nature of God’s saving provision.00:00:08 - Introduction00:03:47 - Journey Out of Calvinism00:19:42 - Provisionism00:37:28 - Calvinism00:44:26 - Sovereignty00:54:01 - Arminianism00:58:04 - Pelagianism01:04:14 - Hyper-Calvinism01:12:28 - Prevenient Grace01:19:07 - Romans 901:41:41 - Resources & Closing RESOURCESFollow Dr. Flowers on X: https://x.com/Soteriology101?s=20Dr. Flowers’ Website: https://soteriology101.comDr. Flowers’ YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@soteriology101?si=bsw_ovQeFeF7XPHs BOOKSDr. Flowers’ Book: The Potter's Promise: A Biblical Defense of Traditional Soteriology (https://a.co/d/00c0ZL9I)Calvinism: A Biblical and Theological Critique by David L. Allen (https://a.co/d/08Dv1xJm)Liberating Romans from Reformed Captivity: A Critical Evaluation of Calvinism’s Interpretation of Paul’s Letter by David L. Allen (https://a.co/d/01VseJYU)The Spiritual Condition of Infants: A Biblical-Historical Survey and Systematic Proposal by Adam Harwood (https://a.co/d/0hKGyIo2)Christian Theology: Biblical, Historical, and Systematic by Adam Harwood (https://a.co/d/09UZhAgq) 

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Tim Stratton to discuss Molinism, libertarian free will, and why the debate over determinism is far more than a theological technicality. Dr. Stratton shares his journey from being a convinced Calvinist to becoming a Molinist, explaining the key turning points that forced him to rethink exhaustive divine determinism. We explore the philosophical foundations behind free will, the implications of different views of time, and how these ideas affect apologetics, evangelism, and even how we understand spiritual warfare, highlighting why a logically coherent theology matters for faithfully defending Christianity.00:00:08 - Intro00:10:51 - Theories of Time00:34:43 - Dr. Stratton’s intro to Apologetics00:44:18 - From MMA to Philosophy 00:58:35 - From Determinism to Libertarian Freedom01:18:40 - Intro to The Problem of Evil 01:28:19 - Calvinism is Incompatible with God’s Love01:41:38 - Emotional and Logical Responses01:53:43 - Libertarian Freedom & the Problem of Evil02:10:05 - Defining Libertarian Free Will02:23:33 - What is Molinism?02:39:57 - What is Middle Knowledge?02:50:31 - Scriptural Evidence for Middle Knowledge02:55:26 - Resources & ConclusionRESOURCESFollow Dr. Stratton on X: https://a.co/d/057cUPEj Dr. Stratton’s Website: https://www.freethinkingministries.comDr. Stratton’s YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@freethinkingministries?si=qJIZiwjUkTGTk3K8 BOOKSDr. Stratton’s Book: Human Freedom, Divine Knowledge, and Mere Molinism: A Biblical, Historical, Theological, and Philosophical Analysis (https://a.co/d/02uqDxNz)Faith Examined: New Arguments for Persistent Questions, Essays in Honor of Dr. Frank Turek by Clark R. Bates (https://a.co/d/0fULDN4c)Luis de Molina: The Life and Theology of the Founder of Middle Knowledge by Kirk MacGregor (https://a.co/d/057cUPEj)

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael Svigel, Chair and Professor of Theological Studies at Dallas Theological Seminary, to discuss a biblical defense of premillennial theology. Drawing from his extensive work in patristics and church history, Dr. Svigel explains how early Christian interpretation sheds light on Revelation 20 and the millennium. We walk carefully through the key interpretive issues that divide premillennialism, amillennialism, and postmillennialism, and Dr. Svigel lays out the hermeneutical differences behind these views, arguing that a consistent historical-grammatical approach best accounts for the text. This conversation is both exegetically detailed and historically informed, offering clarity on one of the most debated areas of Christian theology. If you’ve ever wrestled with how to interpret Revelation or wondered how the early church understood the millennium, this episode will sharpen your thinking.00:00:08 - Intro00:02:22 - What is Mellenial Theology?00:14:05 - Is there a number that will trigger the second coming?00:20:45 - Interpreting Revelation 2000:47:22 - Hermeneutical Method for Revelation01:13:30 - Understanding Different Eschatological Views01:23:59 - The Fathers on the Future01:31:33 - The Rapture 01:55:37 - Books & Resources 01:59:32 - Practical Implications of Premillinialism02:12:18 - ClosingRESOURCESDr. Svigel’s Book, The Fathers on the Future: https://a.co/d/0hUN6SaX Dr. Svigel’s Website: https://fathersonthefuture.comFollow Dr. Svigel on X: https://x.com/Svigel?s=20

In this episode, I talk with filmmaker Michael Ray Lewis, director of the apologetics documentary Universe Designed. Michael shares his powerful testimony of coming from atheism to faith in Christ, and how the very evidence that convinced him of God’s existence became the backbone of his film. We also discuss the greatest resistances people often have to Christianity as well as the most compelling arguments that point to God. We dive into the behind-the-scenes process of creating the film, the challenges of theatrical release, and why he believes the Christian film industry often struggles. This conversation is both inspiring and equipping—a must-listen for anyone passionate about apologetics or using media to point people to Christ.TIMESTAMPS00:00:00 - Intro00:02:47 - Testimony - From Atheist to Christian00:12:57 - Greatest Resistance to Christ00:30:48 - Most Compelling Argument00:43:39 - Biggest Resistance to Conversion00:46:26 - Process of Creating the Film00:50:02 - Theatrical Release Requirements00:53:12 - The Problem with Angel Studios01:02:04 - Current State of the Christian Film Industry01:09:39 - Does the Film Affirm YEC or OEC?01:19:27 - Alternatives to a Theatrical Release01:21:19 - Recommended Books and Resources01:24:14 - How to Get Better at Sharing your Faith01:29:11 - ClosingHelp fund the production! (https://universedesigned.com/donate/) Follow the progress and learn more on:The Website (https://universedesigned.com/?mc_cid=a4529020a4&mc_eid=b7180f11f4)Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/universedesigned)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/universedesigned/)Youtube (https://youtube.com/@universedesigned2741)FILM DETAILSDirected by: Michael Ray LewisFeaturing: Stephen Meyer, Alisa Childers, J. Warner Wallace, Gregory Koukl, Frank Turek, Hugh Ross, Lance Waldie, Mary Jo Sharp, Allen Parr, Michael Licona, Larry Evans, Fazale Rana, Derrick Bledsoe, Jeffrey Zweerink, and Travis DickinsonMusic used in the trailer:Height of the Mountain by ColossusMidnight Mystery by DeKiboRECOMMENDED BOOKS:I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist by Norman L. Geisler & Frank Turek (https://a.co/d/5jDeLqv) Tactics, 10th Anniversary Edition: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions by Gregory Koukl (https://a.co/d/c75cU3g)

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. David Allen to explore the Book of Hebrews. Having written his dissertation defending Luke as the author, Dr. Allen brings unique insight into this profound New Testament letter. We tackle key questions such as, How can we be confident Hebrews belongs in the canon? Who was the original audience? What interpretive approach best unlocks the book’s meaning? We also wrestle with the difficult apostasy passages—especially Hebrews 6—often cited in Arminian theology. Additionally you’ll hear Dr. Allen’s unfiltered take on how some Old Earth Creationists use Hebrews to argue that God is still in His seventh-day rest. This conversation is rich, thought-provoking, and a must-listen for anyone serious about understanding Hebrews.TIMESTAMPS:00:00:00 - Intro00:04:37 - Who Wrote Hebrews?00:42:28 - Who was the Original Audience?00:46:23 - How Do We Know It’s Canon?00:51:46 - More Evidence for Authorship & Audience00:55:12 - Interpretive Method01:59:58 - Hebrews 601:20:55 - Are OEC Arguments from Hebrews Valid?01:30:04 - Books Recommendations & ClosingFollow Dr. Allen on X (https://x.com/drdavidlallen?s=21)Dr. Allen’s Website: (https://www.drdavidallen.org)Preaching Coach with Dr. David Allen (https://www.preachingcoach.com)Hebrews: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Holy Scripture (Volume 35) (The New American Commentary) by David L. Allen (https://a.co/d/6tGUO4U)Lukan Authorship of Hebrews (New American Commentary Studies in Bible and Theology) by David L. Allen (https://a.co/d/b3Dndsw)Liberating Romans from Reformed Captivity by David L. Allen  (https://a.co/d/6VdZeHp)Calvinism: A Biblical and Theological Critique by David L. Allen (https://a.co/d/aJ2aYuT)Preaching Tools by David L. Allen (https://a.co/d/5MS1NrE)

In this episode, we talk with Andy Koons, a former militant atheist who never expected his life to be changed by a conversation with artificial intelligence. Andy shares how interactions with ChatGPT challenged his assumptions, confronted his doubts, and introduced him to the overwhelming evidence for Christianity. As he walks us through his journey from disbelief to faith, Andy opens up about the questions that challenged him most and the moment he realized the gospel was true. His story is a powerful testimony of how God can work through even the most unexpected tools to draw people to Himself.Read Andy’s Conversation with Chat GPT Here (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-M9tLKmX3EBpjeI5gpdhhPblWzur5I33EWPb6eLoHKs/edit?usp=drivesdk)00:00:00 - Intro00:01:21 - Backstory00:37:59 - From Pastor’s Kid to Atheist00:52:25 - Talking to Chat GPT01:05:35 - Dangers & Biases of LLMs01:19:19 - Evidence for Christianity01:41:40 - The Conversion Experience02:03:09 - Advice to Other Atheists02:08:09 - Closing RemarksFollow Andy Tiktok (https://www.tiktok.com/@andykoons?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc)Andy’s Podcast: “We Love the State” (https://youtube.com/@welovethestate4729?si=DtEVFKUrY9C6sXbk)MATERIALS REFRENCED:Alex O’Connor & Chat GPT Video (https://youtu.be/wS7IPxLZrR4?si=Nbc6tQ7djjrEVCWV )“God’s Crime Scene” by J. Warner Wallace. (https://a.co/d/hIEC6VW) Expedition Bible (https://youtube.com/@expeditionbible?si=9mbz2v52zTiw7Q8t) 

In this episode, we dive into the Protestant Reformation and explore how it sparked the formation of major Christian denominations still shaping faith today. We trace the origins and growth of Evangelicalism, Liberalism, and Fundamentalism, unpacking the key ideas that define each movement. Along the way, we introduce the concept of theological triage—a way to prioritize which doctrines are essential and which differences we can navigate with grace. Tune in to discover why understanding this history isn’t just about the past, but crucial for how we live and relate to others in faith today. TIMESTAMPS: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:04:17 - Theological Triage 00:19:25 - Does Tradition Possess Authority? 00:29:39 - What was the Reformation? 00:48:23 - Navigating the Downfalls of the Reformers 01:07:01 - What Does it Mean to be Protestant? 01:17:07 - What Denominations Came Out of the Reformation? 01:22:52 - What is Evangelicalism? 01:37:27 - What is Fundamentalism? 02:15:14 - Should We Identify with These Labels? 02:24:25 - Recommended Books 02:27:27 - Closing RECOMMENDED BOOKS On Church History:  Great first read:  Jones, Timothy Paul, and Rose Publishing. Christian History Made Easy. (https://a.co/d/cZZ0Tq1)  Good next step:  Mark A. Noll, David Komline, and Han-luen Kantzer Komline, Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity, Fourth Edition. (https://a.co/d/dNoMatB) Good further step:   Justo L. González, The Story of Christianity, Vol. 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation, 2nd edition; Justo L. González, The Story of Christianity, Vol. 2: The Reformation to the Present Day, 2nd edition (https://a.co/d/9tkSb4j)    On Creeds:  Carl R. Trueman, Crisis of Confidence: Reclaiming the Historic Faith in a Culture Consumed with Individualism and Identity. (https://www.logos.com/product/251511/crisis-of-confidence-reclaiming-the-historic-faith-in-a-culture-consumed-with-individualism-and-identity?ff_showPdpAddSubx=true)  Dixhoorn, Chad Van, ed. Creeds, Confessions, and Catechisms. (https://a.co/d/4RQGdP0)    On the Reformation:  Collinson, Patrick. The Reformation: A History. Modern Library Chronicles 19. New York: Modern Library, 2004. Any edition is acceptable. (https://a.co/d/gLY6MVR)  Marshall, Peter. The Reformation: A Very Short Introduction. Very Short Introductions (VSI). (https://a.co/d/acOUFPh)  Roland H. Bainton. The Travail of Religious Liberty: Nine Biographical Studies - Primary Source Edition. (https://a.co/d/bddSbRj) Martin Brecht. Martin Luther: A Biography (3 Vols.). (https://www.logos.com/product/120290/martin-brechts-martin-luther-a-biography)Andrew T. Walker. Liberty for All: Defending Everyone's Religious Freedom in a Pluralistic Age. Brazos Press, 2021. (https://a.co/d/aRVST23)On Evangelicalism and Fundamentalism:   Bebbington, David W. Evangelicalism in Modern Britain: A History from the 1730s to the 1980s. (https://a.co/d/bvGf2gA)  Noll, Mark A., David W. Bebbington, and George M. Marsden, eds. Evangelicals: Who They Have Been, Are Now, and Could Be. (https://a.co/d/ibfYSTo)  Marsden, George M. Fundamentalism and American Culture. Third Edition. (https://a.co/d/37d84st)   Marsden, George. Understanding Fundamentalism and Evangelicalism. (https://a.co/d/4ljpjOm)   Packer, J. I. “Fundamentalism” and the Word of God. (https://a.co/d/7ras6BA)   Torrey, R. A., and A. C. Dixon, eds. The Fundamentals: A Testimony to the Truth. 4 vols. (https://a.co/d/fm4u9Q4)  Torrey, R. A., and Charles L. Feinberg, eds. The Fundamentals: The Classic Sourcebook of Foundational Biblical Truths. 1 vol. (https://a.co/d/50q5Tct)  Henry, Carl F. H., and Russell Moore. The Uneasy Conscience of Modern Fundamentalism. (https://a.co/d/8EfnKp1)

In this episode, we challenge one of the foundational assumptions of New Testament scholarship: Which Gospel was truly written first? While mainstream academics often point to Mark, our guest makes a compelling, evidence-based case for Matthew as the original Gospel. We Dive into the complexities of the Synoptic problem and discover why the sequence of the Gospels holds real significance—even for those who believe in divine inspiration. We navigate the landscape of competing Synoptic theories, dissect the arguments for Markan priority, and bring to light both external and internal evidence supporting Matthean priority.David Pallmann’s Channel: https://youtube.com/@faithbecauseofreason8381?si=9QDerFeB5dF6QkltTIMESTAMPS:00:00:08 - Greetings00:06:42 - Introduction00:09:08 - What is the Synoptic Problem?00:12:11 - Why Does the Gospel Order Matter? 00:13:26 - Early Church Father Quotations00:22:17 - Overview of the Major Synoptic Theories00:32:37 - The case for Markan priority 01:12:46 - The Case for Matthean Priority 02:05:24 - Summary 02:10:30 - Book Recommendations02:12:54 - The Tide of Biblical StudiesRECOMMENDED BOOKS:Why Four Gospels? - David Allen Blackhttps://www.amazon.com/Four-Gospels-David-Alan-Black/dp/1893729877The Synoptic Problem: Four Views - Stanley Porter and Bryan Dyer (editors)https://www.amazon.com/Synoptic-Problem-Four-Views-ebook/dp/B01HC1251QThe Progressive Publication of Matthew - B. Ward Powershttps://www.amazon.com/Progressive-Publication-Matthew-Ward-Powers/dp/0805448489The Synoptic Problem: A Critical Analysis - William Farmerhttps://www.amazon.com/Synoptic-Problem-Critical-Analysis/dp/B0000CMLX3One Gospel From Two: Mark's Use of Matthew and Luke - David Peabody et alhttps://www.amazon.com/One-Gospel-Two-Marks-Matthew/dp/1563383527The Originality of St. Matthew - B. C. Butlerhttps://www.amazon.com/Originality-St-Matthew-Two-Document-Hypothesis/dp/0521233038Matthew, Luke, Mark - Bernard Orchardhttps://www.amazon.com/Matthew-Luke-Mark-Griesbach-Solution/dp/0860880095History and Criticism of the Marcan Hypothesis - Hans Herbert Stoldthttps://www.amazon.com/History-Criticism-Marcan-Hypothesis-Hans-Herbert/dp/0865540020The Order of the Synoptics: Why Three Synoptic Gospels? - Bernard Orchard and Harold Rileyhttps://www.amazon.com/Order-Synoptics-Bernard-Orchard/dp/0865542228Evidence of Conflation in Mark: A Study in the Synoptic Problem - Thomas R. W. Longstaffhttps://www.amazon.com/Evidence-Conflation-Synoptic-Problem-Dissertation/dp/0891300864Mark as Composer - David B. Peabodyhttps://www.amazon.com/MARK-COMPOSER-New-Gospel-Studies/dp/0865541973A History of the Synoptic Problem - David Laird Dunganhttps://www.amazon.com/History-Synoptic-Problem-Composition-Interpretation/dp/0300140584New Synoptic Studies - William Farmer (editor)https://www.amazon.com/New-Synoptic-Studies-Cambridge-Conference/dp/086554087XThe Two-Source Hypothesis: A Critical Appraisal - Arthur Bellinzoni (editor)https://www.amazon.com/Two-Source-Hypothesis-Critical-Appraisal/dp/0865540969#:~:text=Professor%20Arthur%20Bellinzoni%20has%20collected,literature%20on%20every%20side%20ofA History and Critique of the Origin of the Marcan Hypothesis - Hajo Uden Meijboomhttps://www.amazon.com/History-Criticism-Hypothesis-Studies-Testament/dp/0567093107The Making of Mark - Harold Rileyhttps://www.amazon.com/MAKING-MARK-Harold-RILEY/dp/0865543593The First Gospel - Harold Riley https://www.amazon.com/FIRST-GOSPEL-Harold-RILEY/dp/0865544093The Interrelations of the Gospels - David Laird Dungan (editor)https://www.amazon.com/Interrelations-Gospels-Symposium-Boismard-Theologicarum/dp/9068312618

In this episode, we explore why church history is vital for Christians today and how understanding our past strengthens our faith. We unpack the original meaning of the term “catholic,” discuss the value of reading the early church fathers, and examine the significance of the early councils and creeds. We also trace the historical development of Roman Catholicism and consider the various ways church history is interpreted today. Whether you’re new to church history or deep into theological studies, this conversation will help you see the past with clarity and conviction.00:00:00 - Introduction00:05:36 - Why Church History Matters for Christians Today00:27:33 - Meaning of the Word “Catholic” 1:10:12 - The Original use of the Word "Catholic" 1:19:06 - The Development of Roman Catholicism Over Time01:43:30 - The Role and Importance of the Early Church Councils and Creeds01:53:51 - Navigating Historical Bias in Study01:57:48 - Reasons for the Increasing Exodus from Protestantism 02:02:29 - Closing RemarksTimothy Berg's Website: https://kjbhistory.com/(01:51:57 01:55:17 01:56:29) RECOMMENDED BOOKS: The Church: The Gospel Made Visible by Mark Dever: https://a.co/d/h9rwqw5The Reformation as Renewal by Matthew Barrett: https://a.co/d/0OCm4zNThe Story of Christianity By Justo L. Gonzalez: (Vol. 1): https://a.co/d/6qLSPzM (Vol. 2): https://a.co/d/4FxYDwwChristian History Made Easy by Timothy Paul Jones: https://a.co/d/8pT2z22The Credal Imperative by Carl Truman: https://a.co/d/21xZacnCreeds, Confessions, and Catechisms by Crossway: https://a.co/d/7lU5DJr2,000 Years of Christ's Power (Vol. 1-5) by Nick Needham: https://heritagebooks.org/products/2000-years-of-christs-power-5-vols-needham.html?srsltid=AfmBOoo1277wEY8ZdkJlltQqGeuIrVK16Jq2AXQWuS9oKtostosIRY2X

In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with David Pallmann to tackle the big questions of epistemology—the study of knowledge. We explore what it means to hold a justified true belief, why definitions matter in theological and philosophical debates, and how to think critically in a world overflowing with information and conspiracy theories.Whether you're navigating social media claims, questioning your beliefs, or just curious about how people come to know truth, this episode will stretch your thinking and deepen your understanding. Get ready to dive into everything from the Gettier problem to Occam’s Razor, all while keeping the conversation accessible and practical for everyday Christians.