Kitchen Table Theology

Pastor Jeff Cranston
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Kitchen Table Theology

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. 1D AGO

    249 The Wesleyan Church | Worship, Free Will, and the Power of Grace with Dr. Bob Black

    Step into a Wesleyan church on any given Sunday, and you might hear a Charles Wesley hymn followed by a modern worship chorus. In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Bob Black, we explore how this fusion of tradition and modernity reflects the church’s core convictions. You’ll learn how Wesleyans approach grace, baptism, communion, leadership, and what it means to pursue holiness today. 🎉 If you missed Part 1 of our conversation on the history of the Wesleyan Church, be sure to listen to Episode 248! Here’s What We Discussed: 00:18 What to Expect in a Wesleyan Worship Service Wesleyan churches often blend traditional and contemporary elements, reflecting John Wesley’s love for both liturgical order and frontier freedom. 04:08 How Big Is the Wesleyan Church? With nearly 2,000 churches in the U.S. and large congregations like 12Stone in Atlanta, the denomination punches above its weight in influence and size. 06:00 How the Wesleyan Church Is Governed The denomination operates under a representative model. They balance local church autonomy with accountability to the district and general conferences. 09:37 Baptism & Communion in Wesleyan Churches Wesleyans practice both infant and believer’s baptism, and offer open communion to all who follow Christ. Multiple modes of baptism are honored, including immersion, sprinkling, and pouring. 13:32 What Is Prevenient Grace? A hallmark of Wesleyan theology, prevenient grace is the idea that God’s grace goes before salvation, preparing the heart to respond freely to Christ. 16:00 Can You Lose Your Salvation? Wesleyan theology affirms free will throughout life, including after conversion. Believers can walk away from faith, though God provides keeping grace to sustain us. 19:41 Lay Empowerment & Women in Ministry From its founding, the Wesleyan Church has insisted on lay equality, with voting power shared 50/50 between clergy and laity and full support for women in pastoral leadership. Key Quote: “Wesleyan theology wouldn’t work unless God is at work ahead of time in the heart of an unbeliever, not to make the decision for them, but to prepare them and give them the opportunity to respond.” – Dr. Robert Black To learn more, visit: https://www.swu.edu/office-directory/member/903493/ 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!

    26 min

  2. JUL 6

    248 The Wesleyan Church | Abolition, Women in Ministry & Scriptural Holiness with Dr. Bob Black

    From abolitionist roots to women behind the pulpit, the Wesleyan Church stands as a significant case study in how theological conviction shapes a church. In this episode, Pastor Jeff sits down with Dr. Bob Black to unpack the history and theology of the Wesleyan denomination. They explore its stand against slavery, the legacy of John and Charles Wesley, and what sets Wesleyan churches apart today.  🎉 Make sure to listen to Part 2 of our interview with Dr. Bob Black on the Wesleyan Church next week!  Here’s What We Discussed: 02:00 How the Wesleyan Church Began Born in 1843 from a group of abolitionist Methodists, the Wesleyan Church formed as a response to the Methodist church’s silence on slavery.  04:24 Wesleyans and Women’s Ordination Wesleyans were the first to ordain women in America, driven by a conviction rooted in Scripture, not modern feminism. 06:23 The Pilgrim Holiness Merger The modern Wesleyan Church was formed in 1968, when the Wesleyan Methodists merged with the Pilgrim Holiness Church. 12:18 John Wesley & the Rise of Evangelicalism John and Charles Wesley’s 1738 conversions sparked the Wesleyan Revival in England, shaping evangelicalism worldwide and influencing generations with their emphasis on holiness and Scripture. 16:29 – Other Notable Wesleyan Figures From abolitionist leaders like Luther Lee to heroes like Sergeant Alvin York and innovators like the founder of Welch’s Grape Juice, the Wesleyan movement has impacted faith, culture, and history in unexpected ways. Key Quote: "The Wesleyan Church began as an anti-slavery movement—these were people who were willing to be arrested, mocked, even attacked, for what they believed Christ was calling them to do." – Dr. Robert Black To learn more, visit: https://www.swu.edu/office-directory/member/903493/ 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!

    21 min

  3. JUN 29

    247 The Christian & Missionary Alliance (CMA) | An Overview of the Fourfold Gospel, Beliefs & Structure

    What do A.W. Tozer, global missions, and church planting have in common? They’re all part of the story of the Christian & Missionary Alliance. In this episode, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany unpack the history, theology, and leadership structure of the CMA denomination. They explore the Alliance’s roots in 19th-century revivalism, the influence of A.B. Simpson, and why CMA churches are often more recognizable by their mission than by their name. 🎉 This is Part 3 of our series on the Christian & Missionary Alliance. If you missed it, be sure to check out Part 1-2: Our full interview with Pastor Jason Esposito of Crossway Church, and our other episodes in our denominational series covering traditions like Lutheranism, Presbyterianism, and more. Here’s What We Discussed: 02:00 – How the CMA Began The Christian & Missionary Alliance started as two separate societies focused on domestic and international missions, founded by A.B. Simpson in the late 1800s. It is larger internationally than in the U.S., a result of its early emphasis on global missions. 05:31 – Influential Figures: A.B. Simpson and A.W. Tozer How these two leaders shaped CMA theology and left a legacy through teaching and writing that still influences the denomination today. 07:59 – Church Governance in the CMA Local CMA churches operate under a district-based system, with authority structures that include district superintendents, elder boards, and national leadership. 10:46 – What a CMA Church Service Looks Like Worship styles vary, but expect a strong emphasis on Scripture, music, prayer, and mission, whether the service is traditional or contemporary. 12:35 – The Fourfold Gospel A summary of the CMA’s core theological framework: Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King. 14:54 – Sanctification in CMA Theology The CMA teaches both positional and progressive sanctification, rooted in the Holiness Movement and grounded in Scripture. 16:39 – The CMA View on Healing Belief in physical healing through Christ’s atonement is a distinctive teaching, with practices like prayer and anointing with oil. 17:57 – The Second Coming and Eternal Judgment The CMA holds a premillennial view of Christ’s return and teaches eternal life for the saved and judgment for the lost. Key Quote: The Fourfold Gospel is Christ as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King—and those four distinctives have remained central to the Alliance since the beginning.” – 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

  4. JUN 24

    246 The Christian & Missionary Alliance (CMA) Baptism, Communion, and Church Life

    Pastor Jeff Cranston continues his conversation with Pastor Jason of Crossway Church as they dive deeper into what makes the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination distinct. They explore how the Alliance approaches communion and baptism, what a typical Sunday service looks like, and how its leadership structure supports both local autonomy and global mission. 🎉 P.S. This episode is part of our ongoing series exploring the major Protestant denominations. Be sure to check out previous episodes to learn more about traditions like Lutheranism, Presbyterianism, and more! Here’s What We Discussed: 01:18 – What to Expect at a Typical CMA Church There is no standard format for CMA churches. Each church may differ in size, style, and cultural background. What binds them is their core doctrine, the Fourfold Gospel, and their mission to reach the lost locally and globally. 03:32 – Worship at Crossway Church Crossway’s Sunday service includes a warm welcome, coffee, live worship, a 35-minute Bible-centered message, and additional elements like baptisms, child dedications, or testimonies. 05:00 – How the CMA Practices Baptism Baptism is offered to any believer able to articulate their faith. Immersion is preferred, but accommodations are made for health or personal reasons. Services are sometimes held outdoors with food and celebration. 06:00 – How Communion Is Practiced Today Communion is held monthly, including special occasions like Good Friday. Post-COVID, sealed cups with wafers are used instead of passing a plate. The church sees communion as a powerful act of remembrance, mystery, and unity. 07:13 – CMA Church Governance Model Churches are elder protected, leader directed, and congregation implemented. Elders provide oversight, staff lead ministries, and the congregation is encouraged to actively serve. 08:00 – The District and National Structure Crossway belongs to the Western Great Lakes district, one of the smaller CMA districts in the U.S. Each church runs its own affairs but is connected to a district superintendent, national leadership, and global missions partners. 09:23 – Collaboration with Alliance and Non-Alliance Partners CMA churches support both alliance-sponsored and outside ministries, participating in local revitalization, church planting, and global missions efforts. 10:58 – Final Encouragements and Resources Pastor Jeff and Pastor Jason encourage listeners to explore writings by A.B. Simpson and A.W. Tozer for a deeper look into CMA theology and heart for mission. Key Quote:  “Once someone is of an age where they can generally articulate that they're a follower of Jesus Christ, child or adult, they can be baptized.”  –  Pastor Jason Esposito Visit https://www.crosswayc.org to know more about our guest!  ______________________________ We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, eamail 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!

    15 min

  5. JUN 15

    245 The Christian & Missionary Alliance (CMA) It's History, The Fourfold Gospel, and Global Mission

    Pastor Jeff Cranston is back! And sitting down with Pastor Jason Esposito of Crossway Church (a CMA congregation in Wisconsin) to discuss he heart behind the Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination. Founded by A.B. Simpson in the late 19th century, the CMA began not as a denomination but as a missions movement focused on bringing the gospel to the world. Pastor Jason unpacks the Fourfold Gospel (Jesus as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King) as well as the CMA’s global reach, spiritual emphasis, and governance model. 🎉 P.S. This episode is part of our ongoing series exploring the major Protestant denominations. Be sure to check out previous episodes to learn more about traditions like Lutheranism, Presbyterianism, and more! Here’s What We Discussed: 01:18 – Pastor Jason’s background and journey  Jason shares how he came to faith, studied theology, and eventually joined the CMA after exploring multiple Christian traditions. 06:19 – Founding of the CMA by A.B. Simpson  A.B. Simpson left his Presbyterian church to reach unreached people in New York. His focus on marginalized groups and world missions led to the birth of the Alliance. 09:00 – Missions as local and global  The CMA does not separate local evangelism and global missions. Churches are called to be active in both. 11:00 – Early missionary commitment  Simpson’s vision included global outreach through sacrificial commitment. Missionaries served in difficult conditions with limited support. 12:33 – The Fourfold Gospel  CMA theology centers on Jesus as Savior, Sanctifier, Healer, and Coming King. This framework defines its approach to discipleship, worship, and mission. 15:00 – Global reach of the CMA  While there are around 2,000 churches in the U.S., international churches in Africa, South America, and Asia now far outnumber them and operate autonomously. 16:05 – Healing and anointing in CMA practice  The CMA teaches prayer for healing in accordance with James 5. Anointing with oil is practiced with faith and trust in God’s will. 18:06 – Evangelism and Christ’s return  The CMA emphasizes urgency in global evangelism with the belief that widespread gospel proclamation prepares the way for Christ’s return. Key Quote: “We want to be a people empowered by the Spirit, grounded in the Word, and driven by the mission of Jesus.” – Pastor Jason Esposito Visit https://www.crosswayc.org to know more about our guest!  ______________________________ We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, eamail 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!

    21 min

  6. MAY 25

    A Quick Update from Kitchen Table Theology

    This episode is an update about Pastor Jeff. After experiencing a health scare, Pastor Jeff was hospitalized but is now home and recovering well. We’re incredibly thankful for God’s protection and for the amazing care he’s received. He’s expected to make a full recovery, but will be going on a short medical sabbatical to fully rest and heal. We will be taking a break for a few weeks as Pastor Jeff regains his strength. But we’ll be back soon with more from our Denominational Distinctives series, right where we left off. ______________________________ We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, eamail 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!

    4 min

  7. MAY 11

    243 The Global Methodist Church Overview | John Wesley, What Caused the Split and Where It's Headed Pt. 3

    The Methodist Church has split and one side is growing fast. In this episode, Pastor Jeff and Tiffany unpack the theological roots of Methodism, why nearly 5,000 churches have joined the Global Methodist movement (a fairly new denomination), and what makes this tradition so distinct in today’s world. They explore the historical foundations of Methodism, the influence of John and Charles Wesley and George Whitefield, and how the movement developed across England and the American colonies. Here’s What We Discussed: 00:33 – The Roots of Methodism How the term “Methodist” began, and how the Wesley brothers and George Whitefield formed a movement focused on prayer, discipline, and Scriptural devotion. 03:04 – John Wesley in America John Wesley’s short-lived ministry in colonial Georgia and how his personal struggles helped shape the future of Methodism. 05:58 – Charles Wesley’s Hymns Charles Wesley’s theological influence through music, and why his hymns remain central to Methodist worship today. 10:06 – George Whitefield’s Evangelistic Reach A look at Whitefield’s powerful preaching ministry, which reached an estimated 80% of colonial America, and his foundational role in the Methodist revival. 13:05 – United vs. Global Methodist: The Modern Split Key reasons behind the recent division, including differing views on biblical authority and Scriptural application. 17:11 – A Typical Methodist Worship Service What to expect on a Sunday in a Methodist church: a blend of liturgy, creeds, music (both hymns and contemporary), and Scripture-based preaching. 20:10 – Church Leadership & Governance An overview of the Methodist church’s conference-based structure, role of bishops, and lay participation in decision-making. 22:05 – Wesleyan Theology & Sanctification What “Christian perfection” really means in Methodist theology, and why the emphasis on sanctification and personal salvation sets this tradition apart. Key Quote: “One of the things that sets Wesleyan theology apart is John Wesley’s view on what came to be known as Christian perfection, or entire sanctification. Wesley didn’t teach that Christians become sinless in this life, but that we can, through God’s grace, grow into full maturity in Christ. That means being wholly devoted to God and to loving others. The deeper you go into the sanctification process, the less you’re going to sin.” – 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, eamail 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

  8. MAY 4

    242 The Global Methodist Church | Worship Styles, Sacraments, and Structure with Reverend Scott Pattison Pt. 2

    What do worship, structure, and doctrine look like in the Global Methodist Church? Pastor Jeff Cranston sit down with Dr. Scott Pattison to unpack what makes this growing denomination unique. From diverse worship styles to strong theological alignment and global expansion, this episode gives you a front-row seat to what’s happening inside the Global Methodist movement—and why so many churches are joining. Here’s What We Discussed: 00:17 – What a Global Methodist Worship Service Looks Like Expect variety: from high liturgy with robes and incense to modern worship and house churches. While styles differ, the theology remains consistent and biblically grounded. 05:20 – Communion in the Global Methodist Church Communion is open to all believers, with grape juice and bread as symbols of Christ’s body and blood. Churches may serve it weekly, monthly, or quarterly—local leadership decides. 07:32 – Understanding Baptism: Symbolism Over Form Global Methodists baptize infants and adults, using sprinkling, pouring, or immersion. What matters most is the individual’s profession of faith and the church’s support of their spiritual journey. 10:16 – Church Structure and Leadership The denomination has bishops, conference superintendents, and presiding elders. Local churches are seen not as landing sites but as launching pads for gospel mission. 13:00 – Global Growth and Vision With nearly 5,000 churches worldwide and growing, the Global Methodist Church is expanding across Africa, the Philippines, Europe, and beyond. The goal? Make disciples of Jesus and spread scriptural holiness across the globe. Key Quote: "The Global Methodist Church exists to make disciples of Jesus Christ, to spread scriptural holiness across the globe, and make a difference for the sake of Christ." – Dr. Scott Pattison We love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, eamail 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!

    23 min
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5
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128 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
    248
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Kitchen Table Theology
  • Show Website
    Kitchen Table Theology

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