Kitchen Table Theology

Pastor Jeff Cranston
  • 5.0 (130)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!

  1. 4D AGO

    263 Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation: The Day That Changed the Church Forever

    Every October 31st, the Church commemorates Reformation Day. In this episode, Pastor Jeff discusses the most pivotal moments in church history: the Protestant Reformation and the bold faith of Martin Luther. Pastor Jeff explores the story behind Luther’s 95 Theses, his struggle for assurance, and how his discovery of justification by faith alone reshaped the course of Christianity. This episode is a reminder that the Church must always return to the authority and sufficiency of Scripture because God’s Word is never peripheral; it’s central. What We Discussed 00:19 Reformation Day and Its Importance Pastor Jeff explains why October 31st should be remembered not only as Halloween but as Reformation Day, a turning point in church history. 03:11 What Was the Protestant Reformation? Pastor Jeff explains how reformers Martin Luther, Ulrich Zwingli, John Calvin, and John Knox led a movement to return the Church to the gospel and the authority of Scripture, standing against corruption and unbiblical practices. 05:22 The Spark: Luther’s 95 Theses Pastor Jeff recounts the moment Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the church door in Wittenberg on October 31, 1517, igniting a movement that shook Europe. 06:49 The Story Behind Luther’s Conviction From a near-death lightning storm to entering the monastery, Luther’s personal journey reveals how God led him to grace through faith. 08:20 The Breakthrough in Romans Luther’s study of Romans opened his eyes to the truth of “the just shall live by faith” and transformed his understanding of salvation. 10:17 The Selling of Indulgences Pastor Jeff explains how the Church’s corrupt sale of indulgences for profit sparked Luther’s outrage and his call for reform. 12:23 Rome’s Response and Luther’s Trial After the Pope condemned his views, Luther was summoned to the Diet of Worms to defend his faith and refused to recant. 14:31 Luther’s Legacy Luther’s defiance and devotion to Scripture changed the Church forever. Pastor Jeff recommends Here I Stand by Roland Bainton for those who want to learn more about his life and faith. Read Here I Stand by Roland Bainton: https://lionandlambapologetics.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Here-I-Stand-A-Life-of-Martin-Luther-Bainton.pdf “I pray that you'll never forget those who have gone before us to ensure that we hear and heard the gospel in its purest and simplest forms.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    16 min

  2. OCT 26

    262 God's Faithfulness: The Promise Keeper Who Never Fails

    When life gets challenging, it’s easy to question whether God will truly keep His word. But Scripture reminds us that His promises never fail. This week’s episode is a throwback to a past episode with Pastor Jeff and Jen Denton on the steadfast faithfulness of God, why we can trust Him completely, how His promises endure through every trial, and what it means to experience His presence even in seasons of affliction. What We Discussed 02:47 Old Faithful and the Faithful God Jen compares Yellowstone’s Old Faithful geyser to God’s unwavering dependability, sharing its history and why its regular eruption reflects the idea of faithfulness in creation. 05:27 Defining God’s Faithfulness Pastor Jeff defines faithfulness as God’s unchanging reliability to do what He has said and fulfill what He has promised: An essential attribute of His perfect character. 07:04 Faithfulness in Action through Scripture They explore biblical examples showing God’s faithfulness in His promises (Hebrews 10:23), protection (1 Corinthians 10:13), answered prayer (Psalm 143:1), and forgiveness (1 John 1:9). 09:29 Faithful Even in Affliction Pastor Jeff and Jen discuss Psalm 119:75. “In faithfulness You have afflicted me” and how God uses suffering to strengthen our faith and teach obedience. 11:02 Called by a Faithful God Pastor Jeff shares how Jeremiah 1 and Joshua 1:9 shaped his calling to ministry as a teenager, and how God proved faithful through fear and uncertainty. 14:30 Daily Mercies and God’s Provision Jen reflects on how God’s mercies are new every morning and how He draws near to those who seek Him, especially in times of uncertainty. 15:13 Faithfulness Beyond Presence Pastor Jeff clarifies that God’s faithfulness is not merely being present but acting to keep every promise He has made. 16:13 The Greatest Promise: Salvation in Christ Pastor Jeff closes with Romans 10:13: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” God’s ultimate faithfulness is seen in our salvation through Jesus Christ. “God’s faithfulness isn’t just that He’s there, it’s that He keeps His word every single time.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    18 min

  3. OCT 19

    261 How to Overcome Temptation, Vice, and the Flesh

    Every Christian wrestles with temptation, but the Bible outlines a clear plan for victory. By submitting to God, fleeing from sin, and choosing holiness daily, we can live in freedom and strength. In this episode, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany explore why we face temptation and how believers can overcome it. They unpack practical steps from Scripture to stay steadfast in faith and restore fellowship with God when we fall short. What We Discussed [00:00] Introduction: Spiritual Victory and Temptation Pastor Jeff and Tiffany continue their series on practical theology, turning to the topic of temptation and how believers can live in victory through Christ. [01:18] The Story of José Rivera Pastor Jeff shares a humorous story originally told by Ravi Zacharias that illustrates how easily temptation can win when we give in to selfish desires. [04:30] What Is Temptation? Temptation is the invitation to act against God’s will. It can come from the sin nature within us, from Satan, or from the world around us. [05:19] Step 1: Decide Not to Yield Victory begins with a firm choice to resist. James 4:7 reminds us to “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” [06:33] Step 2: Submit to God Immediately The first move in any moment of temptation is to surrender control to God. Submission gives Him command of our hearts and strength to resist. [07:21] Step 3: Resist in God’s Strength We cannot fight temptation in our own power. We must rely on God’s strength and, when possible, remove ourselves from the situation, just as Joseph fled from Potiphar’s wife in Genesis 39. [08:16] Step 4: Do the Holy Alternative Instead of focusing only on what to avoid, believers are called to do the holy alternative, to obey God and walk in His will. [10:16] Step 5: Avoid What Tempts You Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 6:17 call believers to “come out from among them and be separate.” Avoid people, places, and influences that stir temptation. [13:00] Step 6: Deal with Sin Immediately When we fall, we must confess and repent quickly. Sin breaks fellowship with God, but confession restores intimacy and peace. [14:04] What Happens When Fellowship Breaks Sin doesn’t destroy salvation, but it creates a barrier in our relationship with God. Like conflict in a family, the bond remains, but the closeness is lost until forgiveness is sought. [16:00] Restoring Fellowship through Repentance Repentance is turning 180 degrees back toward God. 1 John 1:9 assures us that when we confess, He is faithful to forgive and cleanse us. Even after failure, repentance brings victory. [17:37] The Real Victory No victory over temptation is permanent in this life, but every defeat can become victory when it leads us back to repentance and renewal in Christ. “Defeat can become victory when repentance leads us back to God.” – Pastor Jeff Cranston We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    19 min

  4. OCT 12

    260 Practical Faith: How to Trust God with Your Needs, Future, and Fears

    What does it look like to live out faith in real life? In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany continue the Practical Theology Series with a discussion on practical faith. What does it mean to trust God daily, believe His promises, and hold on even when life feels uncertain? They explore how practical faith begins with need, grows through trust, and endures by believing in God’s character rather than emotions. What We Discussed [01:42] What Is Practical Faith? Practical faith is trusting in God and His Word in daily life. It’s active obedience expressed through love and reliance on Him, even when life constantly throws challenges our way. [03:17] Where Practical Faith Begins Faith starts with recognizing our needs and choosing to trust God to meet them, as Philippians 4:19 reminds us that He supplies all our needs according to His riches in Christ Jesus. [04:33] Faith and Trust Go Hand in Hand Psalm 37:5 gives us the formula for practical faith: Commit your way to the Lord, trust also in Him, and He will do it. Pastor Jeff shares a story about learning to trust doctors through his own health struggles. [07:13] Believing the Promises of God Practical faith also means believing in God’s promises. Pastor Jeff points to Paul’s faith in Acts 27 during a storm, reminding listeners that God’s “exceedingly great and precious promises” are reliable and real. [09:26] Knowing God’s Promises Tiffany emphasizes that we can’t believe what we don’t know. She shares Isaiah 41:10 and Proverbs 3:5-6 as examples of promises to hold on to when fear or confusion set in. [10:57] Faith vs. Feelings Faith is based on fact and God’s character, not personal feelings or preference. [13:40] Trusting God’s Instructions Faith requires obedience. Trusting God’s wisdom means accepting and following His Word even when we don’t understand His timing or ways. [15:30] Trusting God for the Future True faith includes confidence in both our earthly and eternal futures. Our times are in His hands, and we can rest knowing He is faithful and able to do more than we can imagine. “Faith isn’t based on how we feel. It’s based on who God is.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    19 min

  5. OCT 5

    259 Why Do My Prayers Go Unanswered?

    What should we think when our prayers don’t get answered the way we hoped? In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany continue the series on Practical Theology and take a closer look at why some prayers seem to go unanswered. They explore biblical reasons, the role of timing, the reality of spiritual warfare, and how God’s will shapes His response to our requests. What We Discussed [01:33] Introduction to Unanswered Prayer Prayer is essential, yet many believers struggle when their requests don’t seem to reach God. [03:07] Placing Limits on God How our expectations, deadlines, and demands can hinder the effectiveness of prayer. [04:34] God’s Timing vs. Our Timing Why God may delay in answering until hearts, circumstances, or other people are ready. [05:37] Wrong Motives in Prayer James 4:3 warns us that selfish or lustful motives can block God’s answers. [08:01] The Role of the Holy Spirit When we don’t know how to pray, the Spirit intercedes for us, aligning our requests with God’s will (Romans 8:26). [09:09] Spiritual Hindrances Daniel 10 reveals how demonic forces can resist God’s messengers and delay answers to prayer. [12:26] When It’s Not for Our Good Sometimes God withholds what we ask because it would harm rather than help us. [13:41] Examining Our Hearts Why we should evaluate our motives, trust God’s wisdom, and remove anything that may hinder prayer. [14:31] A Final Word on Prayer  A.J. Gordon once said, “You can do more than pray after you have prayed, but you can never do more than pray until you have prayed.” “God will only give us good things that are in keeping with His will and that contribute to our spiritual wellbeing.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston Resources Mentioned:   Billy Graham. “Why Do Prayers Go Unanswered?” July 2013. Accessed 29 September 2025. We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    17 min

  6. SEP 28

    258 How To Pray: What the Bible Teaches About Prayer

    What does the Bible really say about how we should pray? Prayer is one of the most powerful gifts God has given us, but many believers still wonder if they’re doing it “right.” In this episode, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany discuss the biblical foundation of prayer. Together, they dive into who we pray to, whether posture or place matters, and three key “ingredients” that every believer should keep in mind when approaching God.  What We Discussed [03:28] What Is Prayer? Prayer is “communicating with God by word, thought, or heavenward glance.” This reflects the heart of biblical teaching. [05:35] Who Do We Pray To? Prayer is directed to the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity participates (Psalm 5:2, Acts 7:59, Ephesians 5:20, Romans 8:26). [11:23] Are There Rules for Prayer? Does posture, time, or place matter in prayer? [14:25] The Ingredients of Prayer Pastor Jeff introduces three conditions for effective prayer: praying in Jesus’ name, making definite requests, and asking persistently. [18:10] Persistent Prayer Explained They explore Jesus’ teaching in Luke 11 about asking, seeking, and knocking, with practical parallels like tracking an Amazon delivery. [22:17] God Is Ready to Do More Pray boldly, trust God’s timing, and remember that God answers prayer for the glory of His name. “To pray in Jesus’ name is more than sticking His name on the end of our prayers; it means praying according to His will and His interests.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    24 min

  7. SEP 21

    257 Applying the Bible: Living Out God’s Word Daily

    Spiritual growth is not only about knowing Scripture. It is about living it. In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany share how the Bible moves from the page into our everyday choices. Scripture is essential to our fellowship with God; We learn how to see its treasures as inexhaustible and what it means to be a doer of the Word. What We Discussed 01:25 - Why Scripture Is Essential The Bible is described as a lamp, a guide, a weapon, and nourishment. Jeff emphasizes its power to teach, correct, and shape our lives (2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12). 05:01 - Use the Bible in Fellowship With God Scripture is the primary way God speaks to us, through conviction, encouragement, correction, and blessing. Psalm 19:7-11 highlights the richness of God’s Word. 07:20 - Regard the Bible’s Treasures as Inexhaustible Pastor Jeff encourages believers to see Scripture as endlessly rich, meeting our needs day by day, even moment by moment. 09:05 - Acknowledge Your Spiritual Needs Bring your struggles, failures, and desires to God’s Word, trusting it to minister to you in every circumstance. 09:47 - Be a Doer of the Word Hearing is not enough. We must act on what Scripture teaches, responding to warnings, promises, instructions, and commands. 11:25 - C.S. Lewis on “Good Pretending” C.S. Lewis described “good pretending” as practicing who we already are in Christ. 15:52 - Building a Fund of Doctrinal Knowledge As Believers, we must systematically grow in our understanding of biblical truth. 17:06 - Returning Daily to Scripture The Bible nourishes our souls, protects us from deception, and provides wisdom.  “May we increasingly give His Word a larger place in our lives and look to it daily for spiritual guidance and understanding.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    20 min

  8. SEP 14

    256 Quiz | Test Your Theology Knowledge

    It’s quiz day at the kitchen table. We’re pausing on our Practical Theology series to test our theological knowledge! In this episode, Pastor Jeff puts Tiffany (and you) on the spot with 14 questions plus a bonus round. From creeds and confessions to soteriology and salvation, we review some of the core truths of the Christian faith. In this episode [00:02:27] Q1: Which Gospel begins with Jesus’ genealogy back to Abraham?   A: Matthew [00:04:00] Q2: The belief in one God in three persons is called what?   A: The Trinity [00:05:00] Q3: Which creed begins with “I believe in God, the Father Almighty”?   A: The Apostles’ Creed and the Nicene Creed [00:06:27] Q4: Who wrote Confessions?  A: Augustine of Hippo [00:07:39] Q5: Salvation is primarily deliverance from what?   A: Sin [00:08:09] Q6: What does the term “atonement” mean?   A: Reconciliation between God and man [00:08:58] Q7: Which verse begins “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith”?   A: Ephesians 2:8–9 [00:10:13] Q8: What does soteriology study?   A: The doctrine of salvation [00:11:00] Q9: The doctrine that Jesus is fully God and fully man is called what?   A: The Hypostatic Union [00:11:40] Q10: The Westminster Confession of Faith is most associated with which tradition?   A: Reformed/Presbyterian [00:12:48] Q11: What does Sola Fide mean?  A: Faith alone [00:14:00] Q12: Which term best describes God’s unmerited favor?   A: Grace [00:14:43] Q13: Who wrote the book of Revelation? Where was he exiled?   A: John, exiled on Patmos [00:15:42] Q14: Which Jewish ruler visited Jesus at night?   A: Nicodemus [00:17:35] Bonus Question: What new denomination formed out of the United Methodist Church?   A: The Global Methodist Church Giveaway If you scored 100%, email pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org with the subject line I’m a winner! Include your name and address, and we’ll send you a Kitchen Table Theology coffee mug (plus maybe a Southern Pecan K-Cup). We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.org Visit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter.  Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church.  Check in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranston Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

    25 min
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5
out of 5
130 Ratings

About

Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!

Information

  • Creator
    Pastor Jeff Cranston
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    262
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Kitchen Table Theology
  • Show Website
    Kitchen Table Theology

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