Biblical Talks with Elder Michael Tolliver Podcast
When the term Reformed theology is used, it often refers to something less historical. Often it refers to a theology that acknowledges the doctrine of predestination and holds to a high view of the Bible as God’s inerrant Word. Sometimes it is also identified with the so-called five points of Calvinism: total depravity, unconditional election, limited atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints. These are all important teachings of the Reformed tradition, but they do not fully encapsulate or describe Reformed theology.
A better starting place is five statements that have been called the five solas of the Reformation. These five solas (sola is the Latin word for “only” or “alone”) are sola Scriptura (Scripture alone), sola fide (faith alone), sola gratia (grace alone), solus Christus (Christ alone), and soli Deo gloria (God’s glory alone). Put together, these solas clearly express the central concerns of the Protestant Reformation, which was about worship and authority within the church as much as it was about individual salvation. The “alone” in each is vital, and they emphasize the sufficiency of God’s Word and the gracious nature of salvation, received by faith alone, in Christ alone. The last of the five solas, soli Deo gloria, is the natural outworking of the first four. It reminds us that Reformed theology understands all of life in terms of the glory of God. To be Reformed in our thinking is to be God-centered. Salvation is from the Lord from beginning to end, and even our existence is a gift from Him.
Biblical Talks with Elder Michael Tolliver Podcast
A Spotlight on the Scriptures: 1 Peter 2:19-20
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Have you ever wondered how to stand strong when life throws injustice your way? Our latest episode illuminates the powerful teachings of 1 Peter 2:19-20, offering a deep dive into the Christian perspective on suffering and endurance. We'll guide you through understanding how patience in the face of adversity, especially when it's undeserved, garners commendation from God. The conversation unfolds the essential difference between facing consequences for our own mistakes—like the businessman who gambled away his fortune in the stock market—and the commendable suffering for doing what's right, as exemplified by the biblical Joseph.
Prepare to be inspired as we examine the transformative power of righteous suffering, using vivid parallels such as the excruciating yet hopeful journey of childbirth. This episode is not just a retelling of ancient scriptures but an engaging exploration of how these eternal principles apply to our modern struggles. Without a guest to distract us, we focus purely on scripture and its real-life applications, ensuring that you leave with a renewed sense of purpose and the strength to endure life's challenges with grace. Tune in for a spiritually enriching experience that promises to fortify your faith and provide a fresh perspective on God's unwavering support through trials.
Have a blessed day, and thanks for listening! Visit my website to learn more at https://www.biblicaltalks.com
This is a spotlight on the scriptures 1 Peter, 2, verse 19 and 20. For this is a gracious thing when minds of God want to endure sorrow while suffering unjustly. For what credit is it if, when you sin or are beaten for it, you endure? But if you, when you do good and suffer for it, you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. Peter is saying that if you have been beaten for any such fault, you can take it patiently. You have nothing to brag about. The beating was your fault. God is not going to commend you for your patience. In a case like that, beloved, it may be possible that you are having problems and difficulties because you played the fool. A businessman said to a preacher one day I have played the fool. He had played the stock market and lost all his capital. He went bankrupt when the preacher was talking to him. He was suffering for his foolishness. To recognize his faults and to endure suffering patiently did not commend him to God. Peter reminded Christians that it is better to do good and suffer for it than to do evil and suffer. If we endure suffering for doing what is right, that brings favor with God, beloved.
Speaker 1:Consider Joseph's story. Though he acted with integrity toward his master. He was treated unjustly Genesis 39, 1-20. Nevertheless, he entrusted himself to the Lord, who extended kindness to him in granting him favor Genesis 39, 21. Now the principle does not, however, neglect using just means to address unrighteous treatment. The reason a woman can endure the pain of childbirth is because something good is coming down the pipe. She can endure pain because it would be worth it in the end, as she celebrates new life for her child. She bears the suffering because of the joy before her. It is in weakness that God does his greater deliverance. This is the spotlight on the scriptures. Thank you,
