Theologically Driven

Host Phil Cecil continues his conversation with Dr. Mark Snoeberger on one of theology's most debated distinctions — the relationship between justification and sanctification. After reviewing the Roman Catholic view from last week, they turn to Holiness theologies, tracing their roots through Wesley. Dr. Snoeberger unpacks Wesley's "sequence of graces," the concept of a second work of grace, and why that framework falls short of the Reformation view — which holds justification and sanctification as distinct but inseparable benefits of union with Christ, both received at the moment of regeneration. A clear and accessible walk through a topic that matters for how every believer understands the Christian life.Learn more about the DBTS summer schedule here.

Preorder McCune's Systematic Theology of Biblical Christianity here. What's the difference between justification and sanctification — and why does it matter? In this episode of Theologically Driven, host Phil Cecil sits down with Dr. Mark Snoeberger of Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary to unpack two of the most important doctrines in Christian theology and explore how different traditions relate them to one another.Dr. Snoeberger begins by carefully defining each term. Justification is the one-time, legal declaration that a sinner is righteous before God, grounded in the imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ and received by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. Sanctification, by contrast, is the experiential process of being made holy — typically described in three phases: definitive (or initial) sanctification at conversion, progressive sanctification throughout the Christian life, and final sanctification or glorification.From there, the conversation turns to the central question: how are justification and sanctification related? Dr. Snoeberger lays out three major positions:The Roman Catholic view, which absorbs sanctification into justification through an ongoing process of infused grace, sacraments, merit, and a final justification at the end of life.The Holiness/Keswick view, which divorces the two by inserting a "second work of grace."The Reformation view, which treats them as parallel, simultaneous benefits flowing from the believer's union with Christ.This episode focuses on a thorough examination of the Roman Catholic position — including baptismal regeneration, the role of the sacraments, venial and mortal sins, purgatory, and why the Reformers' insistence on sola fide (faith alone) was such a watershed moment. Dr. Snoeberger also explains the "hopeful and causal relationship" Catholic theology draws between sanctification and final justification, and why this framework leaves believers without assurance.Whether you're a pastor, student, or curious listener, this episode offers a clear, accessible introduction to a doctrine at the heart of the gospel and the Protestant Reformation.Topics covered:Definitions of justification and sanctificationImputed vs. infused righteousnessDefinitive, progressive, and final sanctificationUnion with Christ and the duplex beneficiumRoman Catholic soteriology, sacraments, and purgatoryVenial and mortal sinsWhy Luther opposed the sale of indulgencesTheologically Driven is a podcast of Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary. Learn more at dbts.edu.

Today, we are joined by Ben and Wendy Russell to discuss how churches can serve kids with disabilities. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Kyle Dunham about the syncritistic tendencies of worship in ancient Israel. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

Today on the podcast, we talk with Dr. Ryan Meyer about holding fast in the book of Hebrews. Learn more about the Master of Divinity program at DBTS at https://dbts.edu/mdiv

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Kyle Dunham about leadership in the book of Joshua. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

Join us for a moderated debate exploring two influential approaches within biblical counseling: Historic Biblical Counseling (Marshall Adkins) and Trauma-Informed Biblical Counseling (Brad Hambrick). This debate will clarify key similarities and differences in how each framework understands Scripture, human suffering, trauma, sanctification, and the local church’s role in care. Our aim is a charitable, rigorous dialogue that equips pastors, counselors, educators, and lay leaders to serve wisely and compassionately.For more info visit https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Ryan Meyer about Paul's view of homosexuality. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

We talk with Jeremy Pittsley about the importance of learning the biblical languages in seminary.Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn more about the Rice Lecture Series at https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode, we talk with Kyle Dunham about the nature and fulfillment of the Davidic Covenant.

In this episode, we talk with Jacob Elwart about counseling someone with sinful anger. Learn more about the Rice Lecture Series here: https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode, we talked with Dr. Jacob Elwart about the history and current landscape of the Biblical Counseling Movement.Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn More about the Rice Lecture Series at https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode we talk with Ben Edwards about the key differences between Christianity and Islam.Learn more about the Rice Lecture Series here.

In this episode, we talk with Ben Edwards about what muslims believe. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu Learn more about Rice Lecture Series at https://dbts.edu/rice

Today on the podcast, we talk with Dr Ryan Meyer about the Synoptic Problem in the gospels. Learn more about DBTSLearn more about the Rice Lecture SeriesDownload the synoptic chart here.

On this episode of Theologically Driven, we talk with Dr Snoeberger about philosophy and worldview apologetics.

Today on the podcast, we talked with Dr Meyer on his interpretation of Hebrews 2 in light of Psalm 8. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

Today, we discuss the topic of kingdom in traditional dispensationalism. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

Enjoy this workshop from our 2025 E3 Pastors Conference. Learn more about our 2026 E3 Conference here https://e3pc.orgLearn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

Enjoy this workshop from our 2025 E3 Pastors Conference. Learn more about our 2026 E3 Conference here https://e3pc.orgLearn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In this episode, we discuss the Hypostatic Union with Dr Mark Snoeberger. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In this episode of Theologically Driven, Dr. Snoeberger joins us to unpack the Incarnation. Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In this episode of Theologically Driven, we delve into the enigmatic world of Ecclesiastes with Dr. Kyle Dunham. Explore the connections between wisdom literature and the Torah as we discuss canonical closure formulas and their implications on understanding the biblical canon. Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

Join us in this episode of "Theologically Driven" as we welcome former Lions kicker Jason Hanson. Dive into Jason's compelling journey from an NFL career to a profound walk with faith. Discover how athletic discipline intersects with spiritual growth and hear Jason's unique insights on balancing a high-pressure sports career with a steadfast Christian life. Whether you’re intrigued by football or faith—or both—this conversation with Jason offers valuable perspectives on perseverance, purpose, and spiritual discipline. Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn More about the Rice Lecture Series https://dbts.edu/rice

Today, we welcome Faith White and Kelly Thomas to share the story and structure of Inter-City Baptist Church’s Women of the Word (WOW) ministry. They trace its beginnings, pastoral oversight, and the Titus 2 model. They also explain how the study is organized (daytime, evening, and Zoom groups), and walk through the in-depth, Bible-first curriculum.Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In this episode of Theologically Driven, we welcome back Jeremy Pittsley to explore the often-overlooked realities of preparing for long-term missions. From the importance of theological training and cross-cultural readiness to the challenges of support raising and team dynamics, Jeremy shares hard-earned wisdom from his years of ministry in Kenya. Whether you're a seminary student, a church leader, or someone sensing a call to missions, this conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for faithfully stepping into global gospel work—shoulder to shoulder with the church.Learn More about https://dbts.eduLearn More about the Rice Lecture Series at https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode of Theologically Driven, Dr. Mark Snoeberger joins the conversation to unpack what the Bible teaches about forgiveness. Is it just letting go of bitterness, or is it something deeper? Dr. Snoeberger explains how true forgiveness involves lifting shame, restoring relationships, and recognizing the role of genuine repentance. Through practical examples and biblical insight, this episode helps listeners think more clearly about forgiveness, consequences, and reconciliation.Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn More about the Rice Lecture Series on Historic vs Trauma-Informed Biblical Counseling at https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode of Theologically Driven, host Phil Cecil is joined by Dr. Kyle Dunham to explore the fascinating intersection between Stoic philosophy and biblical wisdom. Drawing from the teachings of ancient Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and modern interpreters such as Ryan Holiday, the conversation delves into seven core principles of Stoicism and compares them with insights from Ecclesiastes, Proverbs, and Job.Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn More about the Rice Lecture Series at https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode of Theologically Driven, host Phil Cecil welcomes Dr. Kyle Dunham to discuss Michael B. Shepherd’s new book, An Introduction to the Making and Meaning of the Bible. They explore how Scripture’s composition—especially in the Old Testament—reveals its message through narrative framed by poetry, editorial comments, and programmatic passages. Dunham highlights examples like Jacob’s and Moses’s blessings, the Balaam oracles, and the way books begin and end to signal theological themes. The conversation also covers textual criticism and translation, including the roles of the Masoretic Text, the Septuagint, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and why Jeremiah’s textual history is uniquely complex. Turning to compositional strategy, they trace messianic trajectories in the Old Testament and show how the New Testament mirrors and fulfills these patterns through the Gospels, Acts, and the Epistles. Along the way, Dunham offers appreciative engagement with Shepherd’s insights while noting points of critique—such as privileging the Septuagint in certain cases and the balance of kingdom and covenant themes.Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn More about Rice Lecture Series at https://dbts.edu/rice

In this episode of Theologically Driven, we welcome Dr. Jacob Elwart for a conversation on trauma-informed counseling through a biblical lens. We define trauma, explore how Scripture speaks to suffering, forgiveness, anxiety, and hope, and contrast secular trauma-informed methods (e.g., EMDR, yoga, cinema therapy) with historic biblical counseling’s aim of spiritual transformation. Dr. Elwart discusses limits, when to refer, and why bypassing the spiritual dynamics of the soul can be a disservice to those who suffer. The episode also announces the 2026 Rice Lecture Series (March 20), featuring a formal debate between historic biblical counseling and trauma-informed biblical counseling—covering the sufficiency of Scripture, common grace insights, and practical implications for ministry. Learn more and register at https://dbts.edu/riceLearn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In this episode of Theologically Driven, Dr. Dunham joins the conversation to explore his recent article published in the Spring 2025 edition of the Master's Seminary Journal. He presents a compelling case for the Abrahamic Covenant as the biblical foundation for missions, arguing that God's promise to bless all nations through Abraham and his seed is central to understanding the church's mission today.Dr. Dunham walks through the development of the covenant across Genesis, offering a unique four-stage framework—promise, ratification, sign, and affirmation—and explains why terms like “unconditional” may not fully capture the covenant’s nature. He also discusses how the Abrahamic Covenant relates to other biblical covenants, especially the Davidic and New Covenants, and what this means for the continuity of Israel in God’s redemptive plan.The conversation challenges broader definitions of missions that include social justice and creation care, urging a return to a gospel-centered focus rooted in Scripture. Whether you're a pastor, missionary, or student of theology, this episode offers rich insights into biblical theology and its practical implications for global missions today.Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In today's episode, we invite Dr Snoeberger on to explore the theological and political implications of the Abrahamic Covenant in relation to modern Israel. Prompted by recent comments from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the discussion dives deep into dispensationalist interpretations, the nature of Abraham’s seed, and how Christians and governments should view and interact with Israel today. The episode also touches on the distinction between civil and ecclesiastical applications of the covenant, and whether the church has a unique responsibility toward Jewish evangelism.Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn more about E3 at https://e3pc.org

In this episode of Theologically Driven, we sit down with Dr. Meyer to explore the often-overlooked book of Obadiah. What is its historical setting? Why does it matter today? We discuss the themes of God’s justice, the pride and downfall of Edom, and the hope of restoration for God’s people. Learn how Obadiah points us to the coming Day of the Lord and why this message still speaks to our lives and churches today.Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn More about the E3 Pastors Conference at https://e3pc.org

In this episode of Theologically Driven, Dr. Ryan Meyer joins the conversation to explore the theological message of the book of Jonah. While Jonah’s story is familiar, Dr. Meyer highlights its deeper purpose: exposing Jonah’s hard heart and pointing to God’s compassion for repentant sinners—even Israel’s enemies. The discussion covers Jonah’s historical context, the unique narrative style among the Minor Prophets, the book’s main theological theme, and its relevance for believers today.Learn about DBTS at https://dbts.eduRegister for E3 at https://e3pc.org

In this episode of Theologically Driven, Dr. Jacob Elwart joins us to discuss the role of homework in biblical counseling. He explains how assignments help extend discipleship beyond the counseling room, keeping counselees engaged with Scripture, prayer, and practical application throughout the week. We talk about how to tailor homework to each person, what makes it effective, and how it encourages lasting spiritual growth.Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.eduRegister for E3 at https://e3pc.org

Contentment is not natural but a learned skill, as Paul states in Philippians 4. Today Dr. Elwart highlights that a lack of contentment often stems from bitterness or questioning God's goodness, which can sideline our service to Christ. To grow in this area, we need to focus on four key aspects: perspective, responsibility, recognizing where true satisfaction comes from, and understanding God's providence. Ultimately, a proper view of God and ourselves is essential for trusting that God orchestrates all things for our good, even in difficult circumstances.Register for the E3 Pastors Conference at https://e3pc.orgLearn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

In this episode of Theologically Driven, Dr. Ryan Meyer discusses his new book exploring the meaning of “this generation” in Matthew 24:34. He examines how this phrase has shaped eschatological debates and argues that it refers not to a time-bound group, but to a rebellious lineage within Israel. Drawing from Deuteronomy 32 and other biblical texts, Meyer explains how this generation persists until Christ’s return, when it will be renewed. The conversation also touches on the concept of a “New Exodus” and the future restoration of Israel. This episode offers a thoughtful defense of Scripture and a hopeful view of God’s redemptive plan.Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.eduRegister for the E3 Pastors Conference at https://e3pc.org

In this episode of Theologically Driven, we welcome Jeremy Pittsley, the newest faculty member at Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary. Jeremy shares his journey from seminary student to missionary in Kenya, and now back to DBTS as a professor of Biblical Languages and Literature. He reflects on formative experiences, influential professors, and the calling that led him to serve in pastoral training and church leadership overseas. Jeremy also discusses the transition back to the U.S., stepping into the role previously held by Dr. Compton, and his excitement for teaching Greek and Hebrew. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.eduRegister for the E3 Pastors Conference at https://e3pc.orgIf you enjoyed this episode, you can access tons of content just like this at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠dbts.edu⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Thanks for listening!

Phil Cecil and Aaron Berry talk about how seminary helps prepare young men for ministry and why it is an important step in training for local church ministry. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.eduLearn more and Register for the E3 Pastors Conference at https://e3pc.orgThe conference will be held on October 16–17, 2025.

Jim Tillotson is the President of Faith Baptist Bible College and Seminary. We talked with him about the greatest challenges facing college students today. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

We talk in this episode to Dr Mark Snoeberger about how to make biblical decisions instead of chasing the secret will of God. Learn More about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

We talk with Dr Mark Snoeberger about what Deuteronomy 18 has to say about finding the will of God. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

We are joined by Dr Richard Caldwell to talk about the relationship of preaching to pastoral ministry. Dr Caldwell encourages pastors to be faithful to the task of shepherding through the faithful exposition of the word. Learn more about DBTS at https://dbts.edu

Join us on this episode of Theologically Driven as we talk with Dr Bruce Compton about his life and ministry.Learn More about Detroit Baptist Theological Seminary at https://dbts.edu

We talked with Dr. Kyle Dunham about his most recent article in the Detroit Baptist Seminary Journal. You can download the article here: The House of Feasting and the House of Mourning: Ecclesiastes and John in Establishing Jesus as the Consummate Sage

Phil Cecil talks with Dr. Mark Snoeberger about the meaning of John 5:26 as it relates to the debate on Eternal Generation.

Pietism hurts conflict resolution. Dr. David Doran discusses a better way to engage in conflict.

Phil and Elliott Martin discuss the outreach Bible study, Hope Explored. We discuss the theme and ways to use outreach Bible studies in the local church. Listen to our episode on Evangelist Bible Studies hereLearn more about DBTS here

Perhaps you have struggled to get all your church's kids workers on the same page and moving in the right direction. A ministry training seminar might just be the thing to help train up new workers and get everyone on the same page. We talked with Riley Woodfin about how to plan and a training seminar for kids ministry volunteers. Learn more about DBTS at dbts.edu

We talked with Ryan Meyer about how to study the general epistles and Revelation. Revelation brings several interpretive challenges, such as symbolism and prophecy. We discuss this and more on this episode of Theologically Driven.