Reformed Forum Reformed Forum

In this installment of Van Til Group, we turn to pp. 73–77 of Cornelius Van Til's classic book, The Defense of the Faith. In this section, Van Til critiques both Roman Catholicism and certain strands of Evangelicalism for their approach to human autonomy and the nature of sin.
Van Til argues that Roman Catholicism, as represented by Thomas Aquinas, assigns too much autonomy to human consciousness, even before the Fall, which undermines the Scriptural notion of authority and total depravity. He contends that Aquinas views fallen man as not entirely different from Adam in paradise, thus diminishing the need for grace.
Similarly, Van Til criticizes C.S. Lewis, representing a segment of Evangelical thought, for conflating metaphysical and ethical issues and for not adequately emphasizing human disobedience to God as the root of ethical problems. Both perspectives, according to Van Til, fail to uphold the biblical doctrine that only through faith and complete reliance on the triune God of Scripture can true ethical behavior be achieved.

Dr. Daniel Borvan traces the tumultuous journey of the French Reformed Church from its formation, through periods of severe persecution, to its current role within the modern Protestant landscape. This session offers a comprehensive look at the church’s theological, cultural, and social contributions over the centuries.
This session was delivered at the Reformed Forum Symposium on the Reformation in the Francophone World (https://reformedforum.org/symposium-on-the-reformation-in-the-francophone-world).

Camden Bucey provides a preview of our upcoming symposium scheduled for Saturday, May 18, 2024. In this event, we will explore pivotal moments and figures in the history of the Reformed tradition. This event will feature four presentations and related discussions on critical theological developments and historical events that have shaped the Protestant Church, particularly within the French-speaking world. Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply passionate about church history and theology, this symposium offers enriching insights into the enduring legacy and challenges of the Reformed tradition.
Sessions Dan Borvan: The Church Under the Cross: An Overview of the French Reformed Church David Noe: Theodore Beza at the Colloquy of Poissy (1561) Marty Klauber: The Eucharistic Theology of Jean Mestrezat Stephen Davis: The War of the Camisards (1702–1704): Huguenot Resistance Under Louis XIV Visit https://www.reformedforum.org/francophone for more information.
We also include the first two lessons in Dr. Carlton Wynne’s new course on John Calvin’s Institutes of the Christian Religion, Books 1–2.
Chapters 00:00:07 Introduction 00:02:29 Symposium on the Reformation in the Francophone World 00:06:57 Overview of the French Reformed Church 00:11:30 Beza at the Colloquy of Poissy 00:13:12 The Eucharistic Theology of Jean Mestrezat 00:15:12 The War of the Camisards (1702–1704) 00:18:09 Carlton Wynne’s Course on Calvin’s Institutes, Books 1-2 00:23:38 Introduction to Calvin’s Institutes 00:52:03 John Calvin the Man 01:26:01 Conclusion

In this episode, we introduce the Gospel of Mark. We also explore how Mark introduces us to the person of Jesus Christ and the Gospel. Of special interest is the redemptive nature of the Gospel. This is shown by Mark's high Christology (Jesus is God), John's baptism, and Jesus' successful resistance of Satan's temptation. 

This episode addresses the heart of Reformed evangelism, featuring a compelling conversation with the Rev. Paul Murphy, pastor of evangelism at Messiah's Reformed Fellowship in New York, and Dr. Eric Watkins, director of the Center for Missions and Evangelism at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. In this conversation, we explore the unique approach of Reformed theology to evangelism, addressing common stereotypes, and addressing the challenges and opportunities for spreading the gospel in urban settings.
We unpack the misconception that Reformed Christians do not engage in evangelism, shedding light on the historical and theological roots of this stereotype. It also highlights the exciting new opportunities, including church planting and revitalization efforts in Chicago and New York.
Listeners will gain insights into the distinct aspects of Reformed evangelism, as outlined by the Reformed creeds and confessions, and the importance of understanding one's role within the Body of Christ. The discussion emphasizes the need for a culture of evangelism within local congregations and offers practical suggestions for fostering this culture.

This week on Theology Simply Profound, Rob and Bob discuss Louis Berkhof’s little book, Summary of Christian Doctrine. We continue our discussion of chapter XXIV, “The Government and Power of the Church.” In this episode, we talk about denominations, church as an organization and its structure, and plenty of other odds and ends related to the church.