In this episode of the London Lyceum, host Jordan Steffaniak discusses the podcast's mission to foster serious thinking within the church community. He reflects on the production of over 500 episodes, outlines future plans for the podcast, including a reduction in the number of episodes, and emphasizes the importance of community support to continue providing quality content.

In this episode of the London Lyceum, Caleb Hawkins and Hunter Hindsman talk with Zack DiPrima to explore the life and influence of Charles Simeon, a pivotal figure in Anglicanism and evangelicalism. The conversation delves into Simeon's pastoral theology, his views on systematic theology and Calvinism, his contributions to the Church of England, and his relationships with nonconformists and Baptists. The discussion highlights Simeon's commitment to the Church, his emphasis on mentorship, and the long-term impact of his ministry on future generations of pastors.

Resources:

Charles Simeon, Parish Pastor

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum and Anglicanism

02:05 Charles Simeon: A Historical Overview

05:19 Simeon's Influence on Anglicanism

10:13 Core Tenets of Simeon's Pastoral Theology

15:14 Simeon's Views on Systematic Theology

22:49 Simeon's Institutional Contributions

30:33 Simeon's Sacramentology and Pastoral Vision

38:11 Simeon's Relationship with Nonconformists

41:59 Lessons from Simeon for Pastoral Ministry

45:26 Future Research on Simeon and Evangelicalism

In this episode, Jordan talks with Leland Brown about his new book 'The First Pastors'. They explore the historical context of pastoral ministry in the early church, the evolution of pastoral roles, and the significance of virtue and gentleness in leadership. Leland shares insights from his research on early church figures and the importance of ecclesiological structures, while also addressing the challenges faced by modern pastors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

01:52 Leland Brown's Background and Church Role

02:47 Inspiration Behind 'The First Pastors' Book

06:07 Understanding Pastoral Terminology in Early Church

09:28 Development of the Term 'Pastor' Over Time

11:05 Influential Figures in Early Pastoral Leadership

13:29 Critique of Gregory the Great's Influence

15:03 Ecclesiological Structures in Early Christianity

17:32 The Role of Plurality in Church Leadership

19:08 Gentleness and Authority in Pastoral Ministry

23:19 Cyril of Alexandria as a Counterexample

25:55 Distinguishing Humility and Gentleness

27:02 Scripture vs. Tradition in Early Pastoral Understanding

29:49 Key Insights for Modern Pastoral Ministry

32:17 The Importance of Suffering in Pastoral Leadership

34:03 Authority and Membership in the Church

34:56 Advice for Publishing a Dissertation

In this episode, Jordan talks with Dr. Charles Schulz about Patristic Exegesis, exploring its historical roots, influences from Jewish practices, and the significant role of early Church Fathers like Origen. The conversation delves into the principles guiding Patristic interpretation, the importance of allegorical readings, and the tensions between Patristic and Reformation approaches to scripture. Dr. Schulz also highlights key figures in Patristic thought and shares insights on the future of classical education at Concordia.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Its Values

01:23 Introducing Dr. Charles Schulz and His Background

05:24 Exploring the Roots of Patristic Exegesis

09:50 The Role of Jewish Practices in Early Christian Exegesis

14:05 The Influence of Origen on Patristic Exegesis

19:15 Overriding Principles of Patristic Exegesis

25:00 The Shift from Allegorical to Literal Interpretation

30:02 Tensions Between Patristic and Reformation Readings

31:50 Key Figures in Patristic Exegesis

39:20 Future of Classical Education at Concordia

In this episode Jordan and Hunter talk with Stephen Presley, and John Wilsey about the significance of church history in the life of the local church. They explore personal experiences with church history, the authority of scripture and tradition, the role of historical figures in theology, the importance of creeds, and practical ways to incorporate history into church life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum Podcast

01:59 The Importance of Church History

05:24 Personal Experiences with Church History

09:05 Integrating Church History into Local Ministry

12:30 Authority of Scripture and Tradition

17:42 The Role of Tradition in Understanding Scripture

21:31 Testing the Spirits: Tradition and Faith

23:28 The Role of Scripture in Tradition

26:23 Creeds and Their Authority

29:45 The Importance of Historical Context

35:32 Incorporating History in Church Life

40:32 The Value of Historical Awareness in Ministry

In this episode, Jordan Steffaniak talks with Dr. Bruce Pass about the theological contributions of Herman Bavinck. They explore Bavinck's historical context, his critiques of Protestant orthodoxy, and the significance of his work in contemporary theology. The conversation also highlights the challenges of translating Bavinck's writings and the importance of engaging with both historical and modern theological ideas. Pass shares insights from his recent translation project and edited volume on Bavinck, emphasizing the need for theologians to understand the past while addressing present challenges.

Resources:

1) The Foremost Problems of Contemporary Dogmatics: On Faith, Knowledge, and the Christian Tradition, trans. Bruce Pass and Gert De Kok

2) Herman Bavinck: Centenary Essays, edited by Bruce Pass

Chapters

00:00 Creating an Intellectual Culture

01:21 Introduction to Herman Bavinck

06:29 Engaging with Bavinck's Theological Vision

11:04 The Significance of Bavinck's Lectures

14:55 Bavinck's Critique of Protestant Orthodoxy

17:50 Bavinck's Historical Context and Methodology

21:09 New Essays on Bavinck's Theology

26:08 Bavinck's Influence on Psychology and Counseling

30:09 The Need for Contemporary Theologians

33:02 Exploring Bavinck and Barth

36:42 Forming Future Theologians

In this episode, Jordan and Joseph Dunne talk with Dr. Gilbert Meilaender about the complexities of bioethical issues from human dignity to end-of-life care. They explore the evolution of bioethics, current trends, and the moral implications of technological advancements such as IVF and genetic engineering.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Serious Thinking in Bioethics

01:25 Dr. Gilbert Meilaender's Journey into Bioethics

04:05 Defining Bioethics and Its Scope

05:34 Exploring Human Dignity in Bioethics

09:52 Current Trends in Bioethics

13:33 Technological Advances in Reproductive Ethics

20:50 The Morality of Organ Transplants

23:59 Navigating End-of-Life Decisions

30:06 Emerging Genetic Engineering Technologies

31:17 The Moral Status of Biological Bonds

In this episode Jordan talks with Joel Chopp, Joshua Lee Harris, and Daniel Houck about the concept of free will, particularly within the context of Reformed theology. They explore the historical debates surrounding free will, the influence of Jonathan Edwards, and the distinctions between compatibilism and libertarianism. The conversation also touches on the implications of these theological positions for understanding human agency and divine providence, as well as the potential for bridging gaps between Wesleyan and Reformed perspectives.

1) Reformed Though on Freedom vs. Compatibilism, Richard Muller

2) Muller's Compatibilism, Michael Preciado

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum Podcast

02:17 Exploring Free Will: The State of the Debate

06:57 The Influence of Jonathan Edwards on Free Will Discussions

10:00 The Distinction Between Early Reformed and Contemporary Views

12:15 Hypothetical Necessity and Its Implications

16:46 Understanding Determinism and Compatibilism

22:21 The Complexity of Free Will Definitions

26:43 Liberty of Indifference vs. Compatibilism

32:07 Exploring Free Will and Causation

34:29 The Distinction Between Event and Agent Causation

37:11 Rationality and Human Decision-Making

39:58 The Role of Intentions and Desires

42:40 Bridging Theological Perspectives on Free Will

46:11 Aquinas: Libertarian or Compatibilist?

In this episode Jordan talks with Dr. Sam Fornecker about the history and theological significance of Anglicanism, focusing on the pivotal figure of Thomas Cranmer. They discuss the Ridley Institute's role in pastoral formation, the structure of Anglicanism, and the enduring influence of the Book of Common Prayer.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum Podcast

02:20 Understanding the Ridley Institute and Pastoral Formation

05:11 The Role of Anglicanism in Spiritual Growth

07:49 Exploring Anglicanism's Historical Context

10:36 The Influence of Thomas Cranmer

13:08 Cranmer's Legacy and the Book of Common Prayer

15:26 Cranmer's Martyrdom and Theological Convictions

22:49 Historical Context of the English Reformation

31:30 Thomas Cranmer's Role in Anglicanism

36:51 Understanding Anglicanism Today

40:44 Pragmatic Insights for Other Traditions

In this episode Jordan talks with Dr. Joshua Brown, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University, to discuss his book 'Capitalizing on College.' The conversation explores the transformation of higher education from a mission-driven approach to one focused on financial margins. Dr. Brown shares insights from his research on various educational institutions, their strategies for sustainability, and the impact of student loans and philanthropy on the future of education. The discussion also highlights the differences between Catholic and Protestant institutions and the challenges they face in maintaining their missions amidst financial pressures.

Resources:

1) Capitalizing on College, Joshua Brown

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the London Lyceum Podcast

01:51 The Shift in Higher Education: Mission to Margin

06:45 Research Methodology: Understanding Institutional Behavior

10:48 Strategies of Higher Education Institutions

17:30 Historical Context of Educational Strategies

20:39 The Future of the Residential Model

22:38 Predictions for the Future of Education

24:49 The Role of Values in Faith-Based Education

27:20 Rethinking Philanthropy in Religious Education

28:00 The Dilemma of Student Debt

30:10 Innovative Solutions in Higher Education

32:48 Faith-Based Institutions and Their Mission

34:36 The Balance Between Money and Mission

36:10 Comparative Insights: Catholic vs. Protestant Institutions

39:13 Reflections on School Choice and Competition

In this episode, Jordan discusses the importance of Christian philanthropy and its relationship with local churches and institutions. He highlights the challenges faced by Christian institutions, particularly in funding and sustainability, and emphasizes the need for creative giving. The conversation explores how individuals can support these institutions through small donations, volunteering, and innovative financial strategies.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christian Philanthropy

00:58 Challenges Facing Christian Institutions

03:18 Creative Giving and Support Strategies

06:03 The Importance of Small Donations

09:40 Rethinking Generosity in the Church

12:06 Balancing Philanthropy and Institutional Needs