Church Discipline and Sacraments Demystified
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
Release Date: 10/16/2024
Understanding the Mystery of Christ
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, hosts Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal dive into Colossians 2:1-5, exploring the riches of assurance in Christ and His sufficiency as the gospel message, means, and goal. The discussion emphasizes the importance of knowing Christ as the central figure of the gospel and how understanding His promises leads to true assurance of salvation. Paul’s words in this passage remind believers that Christ is the mystery of God revealed, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. This assurance is not based on human works or intellectual...
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Proclaiming Christ Crucified
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony and Jesse delve into the complexities of Colossians 1:24–29, exploring Paul's profound theology of suffering and the mystery of Christ's indwelling presence. The discussion begins by examining Paul's statement about "filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions" and how this does not undermine the sufficiency of Christ's atoning work. Instead, they argue, Paul is emphasizing the role of suffering in the Christian life as a means of identifying with Christ and demonstrating the power of the gospel. The hosts highlight how Paul models joy...
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The Scandal of Reconciliation
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse dives into Colossians 1:21-23, unpacking the profound and transformative truth of reconciliation in Christ. With Tony absent, Jesse takes the lead, exploring the scandal of reconciliation and how God, through Christ, has restored a broken relationship with His people. He delves into the radical message of the gospel, emphasizing how Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection not only redeemed humanity but also brought reconciliation to all of creation. Jesse reflects on the nature of reconciliation, highlighting the transition from...
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All Things Through Him: Christ's Supreme Relevance
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony delve into Colossians 1:15–20, one of the most profound passages in the New Testament that highlights the supremacy and preeminence of Christ. They explore how this passage serves as a theological anchor, emphasizing Christ's role as Creator, Sustainer, and Reconciler of all things. By unpacking the rich doctrinal truths within this section of Scripture, the hosts show how Paul’s words both exalt Christ and address the sufficiency of His work for salvation and reconciliation. The conversation begins by connecting the passage to...
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From Darkness to Light
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
n this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony delve deep into Colossians 1:13-14, unpacking the Apostle Paul's rich theological message about being rescued from the domain of darkness and transferred into the kingdom of Christ. The discussion centers on the transformative power of God's grace, emphasizing the joy and beauty of redemption, forgiveness, and union with Christ. Through Christ alone, believers are qualified to share in the inheritance of the saints, receiving full access to the privileges of being children of God. Tony and Jesse explore the covenantal implications of...
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The Gospel That Transforms
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
In Episode 430 of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony and Jesse begin their exploration of Paul’s letter to the Colossians, focusing on Colossians 1:1–12. This section introduces the key themes of the epistle, including faith, hope, love, and the transformative power of the Gospel. The hosts emphasize that the Gospel is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, both globally and within the lives of believers, demonstrating the sufficiency of Christ in all things. They also discuss the importance of spiritual wisdom and understanding, which enable believers to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord....
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Hearing God's Voice in Your Decisions
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
Episode 429 of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony and Jesse explore the topic of hearing God's voice and discerning His guidance in everyday decisions. The discussion begins with an affirmation of God's active presence in the lives of believers through the Holy Spirit and transitions into a theological exploration of how the Spirit leads Christians today. The hosts tackle common questions such as how to determine God's will in decisions like career choices, relationships, and daily activities, emphasizing the importance of wisdom, prayer, and reliance on God's Word. The episode delves into the...
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Loving Imperfect Churches
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb and Tony Arsenal tackle an issue that resonates deeply with many Christians: how to love and remain content in imperfect churches. The discussion begins by addressing the challenges of navigating differences in worship practices, theological preferences, and church traditions while maintaining love and unity within the body of Christ. The hosts emphasize that no church is perfect and that contentment often requires humility, submission, and a deep understanding of God's sovereign placement of His people in specific congregations. Tony...
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Why the Church is Central to Christian Life
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
Explore the final article of John Knox's Scott's Confession as we discuss the gifts freely given to the church, the true marks of a biblical church, and the role of the church in Christian perseverance. Dive into the importance of confession, absolution, and boldness in proclaiming the gospel. Learn how Knox's theology applies to modern church life and why the church is central to every believer's faith journey. In this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood, Tony and Jesse conclude their series on John Knox's Scott's Confession by exploring the final article, "The Gifts Freely Given to the...
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Sovereignty, Authority, and Prayer
Reformed Brotherhood | Reformed Theology and Brotherly Love
In this episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse and Tony delve into Article 24 of John Knox's Scots Confession, focusing on the role and responsibilities of civil magistrates. The hosts explore Knox's perspective on the divine ordination of government structures and leaders, as well as the Christian's response to those in authority. They wrestle with Knox's strong assertions about honoring and loving civil leaders, even when their personal values or policies may seem at odds with biblical principles. The conversation transitions into a broader discussion about how modern Christians approach...
info_outlineIn this episode of the Reformed Brotherhood Podcast, hosts Tony Arsenal and Jesse Schwamb engage in a deep exploration of the theological insights of John Knox as delineated in the Scots Confession. The discussion intricately weaves through various theological concepts, emphasizing the critical role of the Lord's Supper as an integral part of Reformed ecclesiology. The hosts delve into the integration of the promises of God and how these shape the sacraments and the overall church practice within the Reformed tradition.
The conversation further unfolds to address the essential marks of a true church, particularly focusing on the role of church discipline. Arsenal and Schwamb articulate the significance of administering sacraments in accordance with scriptural doctrines, highlighting the interconnectedness of preaching the Word, administering the sacraments, and exercising church discipline. These elements are presented as a cohesive framework that underpins Reformed church governance.
Listeners are invited to reflect on the implications of Knox's theology for contemporary church practices, understanding how historical theological constructs continue to influence modern ecclesiological approaches. The episode provides an enriching narrative that underscores the necessity of adhering to scriptural mandates and the proper execution of church governance, making it an invaluable resource for those interested in historical theology and its modern applications.
Key Points:
- The integration of the promises of God is central to the administration of sacraments in Reformed theology.
- Church discipline is a critical component of the true church, involving the withholding of sacraments when necessary.
- The Scots Confession offers foundational insights into Reformed ecclesiology and the role of the church in proclaiming the Gospel.
Questions for Reflection:
- How does John Knox's theology influence contemporary Reformed church practices?
- What is the significance of the sacraments in maintaining the integrity of the church according to the Scots Confession?
- In what ways can church discipline be seen as an expression of grace within the church community?