Beginning with the classical principles of Just War as articulated by Thomas Aquinas and developed in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Derek acknowledges the theory’s historical role in restraining violence. At its best, Just War thinking treats war as tragic but permissible only under strict conditions. But Derek raises a critical question: even if it limits war, does it also legitimize it?

Drawing from Scripture, church history, and personal experience, Derek explores how the coming of Jesus reframes the conversation about violence. Jesus’ teachings to love your enemies, turn the other cheek, and put away the sword radically reorient how with think about war. The question is no longer “When is war justified?” but “What does faithfulness to Jesus look like in a world shaped by war?”

This episode challenges listeners to reconsider long-held assumptions and to take seriously the possibility that the way of Jesus calls us beyond justified violence toward a life shaped by nonviolence, peacemaking, and costly love.

Key Takeaways

• Just War Theory has historically functioned to limit violence but may also legitimize it.

• The criteria for “just war” are often interpreted by those who benefit from war.

• Jesus reframes violence through the perspective of enemy love and nonviolence.

• The early church consistently leaned away from violence in its witness.

• Just War Theory can shrink our moral imagination by keeping war as an available option.

• Christian discipleship calls us to ask what is faithful, not merely what is justifiable.

Scriptures Mentioned

• Galatians 3:24

• Matthew 5–7 (Sermon on the Mount)

• Isaiah 2

Resources Mentioned

Article: Questioning the Just War Assumption by Derek Vreeland

https://missioalliance.org/questioning-the-just-war-assumption/

Safeguarding Peace from the US Conference of Catholic Bishops

https://www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/human-life-and-dignity/war-and-peace/excerpts-from-catechism-of-the-catholic-church-safeguarding-peace-1997

A Field Guide to Christian Nonviolence edited by David C. Cramer & Myles Werntz

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Jesus proclaimed, taught, and demonstrated the kingdom by announcing good news, explaining its implications, and embodying its power through healing. But the kingdom is not what many assume. It is not merely a future reality in heaven, nor is it simply good works, church activity, or private spirituality. It is not aligned with political ideologies or national agendas.

Instead, the Kingdom of God is the rule of God in Christ on the earth through the church. Derek challenges both common misunderstandings: the idea that the kingdom is only future (held by many evangelicals) and the idea that it is something we must build through human effort (held by many progressives). The truth, he argues, is found in the tension—what theologians call the “already and not yet.”

This episode also explores the political nature of the kingdom, not partisan, but deeply political in the sense that it confronts and reshapes how power is understood and exercised. Rooted in the Sermon on the Mount, the kingdom calls followers of Jesus into a new way of living, one that resists both cultural polarization and ideological captivity.

The invitation of Jesus is not simply to believe in the kingdom but to enter it, live under its authority, and bear witness to it in a divided world.

Key Takeaways

• The kingdom of God is the central message of Jesus’ ministry.

• The kingdom includes proclamation, teaching, and demonstration.

• The kingdom is not heaven, good works, or private spirituality.

• It is the rule and reign of God through King Jesus on the earth.

• The kingdom is both present (“already”) and future (“not yet”).

• The kingdom is political—but not partisan.

• Followers of Jesus are called to live under God’s rule, not build their own version of the kingdom.

• Allegiance to political ideologies can distort our understanding of the kingdom.

Scriptures Mentioned

• Matthew 9:35

• Matthew 3:2

• Isaiah 2:2–4

• Hebrews 12:22–24

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Though not the central heroes of the story, the Elves serve as keepers of memory, bearers of wisdom, and guardians of beauty. Derek explores how characters like Elrond and Galadriel function as guides rather than rulers, offering clarity, provision, and encouragement to those tasked with carrying the future. Their presence echoes something familiar in Scripture. They are like angels as they illuminate truth, bring comfort, and point others toward courage without seeking power for themselves. 

Through the Council of Elrond and the gifts of Galadriel, we see a different kind of leadership marked by wisdom, restraint, and the ability to recognize where true responsibility lies. The fate of Middle Earth is not entrusted to the strongest or the wisest, but to the humble. And the Elves are wise enough to let that happen. 

In the end, the Elves remind us that true greatness is not found in holding onto power, but in preparing others, playing your part faithfully, and knowing when to let go. 

Key Takeaways 

• The Elves are not the central heroes, but essential to the story’s unfolding. 
• They serve as keepers of memory, wisdom, and beauty in Middle-earth. 
• Elrond models leadership through listening, guidance, and historical awareness. 
• Galadriel embodies spiritual insight, testing, and provision. 
• True wisdom resists the temptation to seize power. 
• The future is shaped by humility, not dominance. 
• Faithful leadership prepares others rather than controlling outcomes. 
• Knowing your role—and embracing it—is a mark of maturity and wisdom. 

Books Mentioned 

The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien 

Resources Mentioned 

Malcolm Guite YouTube Channel: 
https://www.youtube.com/@MalcolmGuitespell 

 
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Derek revisits key movements in the podcast, including early teachings on prayer and formation, thoughtful engagement with cultural and political tensions, and a deep theological dive into the cross and resurrection especially through the atonement series and engagement with The Crucifixion by Fleming Rutledge. He also highlights the importance of the Nicene Creed, the rhythms of the Christian calendar, and the formative power of stories, literature, and imagination.

A major highlight of the podcast has been its 23 interviews, conversations with pastors, authors, and theologians that embody humility, curiosity, and a shared pursuit of truth. These dialogues reflect the core heartbeat of the podcast: listening well and learning together.

As the episode looks ahead, the direction remains clear: continue exploring Scripture, engaging culture, and pursuing the way of Jesus with depth and honesty. The goal is not easy answers, but faithfulness to the way of Jesus

Key Themes

Christlikeness as the goal of spiritual formation

Scripture as a formative story, not a weapon

Faithful engagement with politics and culture

Reconciliation, justice, and the church as a place of belonging

The life, death, and resurrection of Jesus as central

The value of historic Christian faith and sacred time

The role of imagination and storytelling in spiritual growth

Read Derek’s Essay “Questioning the Just War Assumption”: https://missioalliance.org/questioning-the-just-war-assumption/

Check out the Merch Store: https://derek-vreeland-shop.fourthwall.com/

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Sam is not a typical powerful or ambitious hero. He never seeks greatness. Yet through his steadfast loyalty, courage, and humility, he emerges as the one who quietly carries the story forward. In moments of fear, darkness, and overwhelming evil, especially in Shelob’s lair and in the Land of Mordor, Sam chooses love over fear, service over status, and faithfulness over power.

This episode explores how Sam’s courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to do what is right in spite of it. His humility keeps him grounded, even when he briefly feels the seductive pull of the Ring. He resists the Ring’s temptation and chooses to remain who he is: a gardener, a servant, and a faithful friend.

In the end, Sam’s story reflects something deeply Christian. True heroism is not found in domination or self-exaltation, but in sacrificial love, humility, and the quiet strength to remain faithful. Sam shows us that the most unlikely people often become the most important because they refuse to abandon love.

Themes Explored in This Episode

• The contrast between cinematic heroism and quiet faithfulness

• Courage as action rooted in love

• Humility as resistance to the temptation of power

• The corrupting nature of power (the Ring)

• Mercy, loyalty, and friendship as transformative forces

• Sam as a Christlike figure in posture and character

• The importance of knowing who you are and remaining grounded

Books Mentioned

• The Fellowship of the Ring – J.R. Tolkien

• The Two Towers – J.R. Tolkien

• The Return of the King – J.R. Tolkien

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Tolkien built a world with its own languages, history, and moral imagination. And unlike fast-paced modern storytelling, this is a story meant to be walked slowly. As Derek explores the parallels between Middle Earth and stories like Star Wars. He highlights a familiar pattern which Joseph Campell described as “The Hero’s Journey”, the story of the unlikely hero drawn into a larger conflict.

At the center of the story is the Ring, a symbol of power that promises control but ultimately enslaves. Tolkien shows that no one is immune to its influence, not even the wise or the good. And yet, woven through the story is a surprising theme: mercy. Acts of pity, especially toward Gollum, become essential to the story’s resolution. In the end, evil is not overcome by strength or heroism alone, but through a mysterious interplay of mercy, weakness, and grace.

Derek reflects on how Tolkien’s story echoes deeply Christian themes: the danger of power, the strength of humility, and the quiet, often unseen work of grace. Even in failure, the story is not over. Middle Earth becomes more than a fictional world. It becomes a lens through which we can better understand our own.

Themes Explored in This Episode

• The Hero’s Journey and Tolkien’s unique twist on it

• Middle-earth as a fully developed world with language and history

• The contrast between Frodo and characters like Luke Skywalker

• The corrupting nature of power

• Mercy as a force that shapes the outcome of the story

• The role of weakness and failure in redemption

• The connection between Tolkien’s storytelling and Christian theology

Resources Mentioned

In Deep Geek YouTube Channel:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVTclEEyY1SKFumpT86h-y6jikkEUKIAH&si=TK7h1wSebJVOxf98

Books Mentioned

• The Fellowship of the Ring – J.R. Tolkien

• The Two Towers – J.R. Tolkien

• The Return of the King – J.R. Tolkien

• Hero with a Thousand Faces – Jospeh Campbell

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Drawing on insights from N. T. Wright, Derek explores the historical shock of the resurrection in the first-century Jewish world. In the time of Jesus, people believed resurrection would happen at the end of history not in the middle of it. That is why the empty tomb and the appearances of the risen Jesus stunned even his closest followers. As the apostle Paul insists in 1 Corinthians 15, if Christ has not been raised, then Christian preaching and faith are meaningless. 

The resurrection also reshapes Christian hope. Easter is not simply about life after death. It is about God’s promise of new creation. Just as God raised Jesus from the dead, God will one day raise his people and renew the whole world. The Christian hope is not escape from creation but the restoration of creation. Because resurrection is our future, what we do in the present matters. Our bodies matter. God’s creation matters. Easter proclaims that death has been defeated and that one day God will make all things new. 

Books Mentioned 

• The Resurrection of the Son of God — N. T. Wright 
• Surprised by Hope — N. T. Wright 

Scriptures Mentioned 

• John 11:23–24 
• 1 Corinthians 15:12–14 

 
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Mark shares his spiritual journey from a Catholic upbringing and Jesuit education to a personal awakening of faith during his college years. They talk about their shared love for the music and passion of Keith Green and how formative it was for them both. Mark also reflects the challenging of leaving a successful youth ministry in order to plant a multiethnic church, which was anchored in his family’s motto: faith, courage, and sacrifice.

Together, Derek and Mark explore the church’s credibility crisis in a culture marked by division, the importance of embodying good works before speaking good words, and why peacemaking must hold together both love and justice. They also discuss the role of fear in fueling division and what it means for Christians to faithfully engage a fractured world without retreating into silence or reacting without wisdom.

Books Mentioned

• Make Me an Instrument of Your Peace — Mark DeYmaz

Scriptures Mentioned

• Matthew 5:16 • Isaiah 61

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Recapitulation is the idea that Jesus “sums up” the human story and lives it again the right way. Where Adam failed, where Israel failed, and where we fail, Jesus succeeds. Drawing on the theology of Irenaeus and the apostle Paul’s description of Christ as the “second Adam,” this image shows how Jesus restores humanity by living a life of perfect covenant faithfulness and undoing the damage introduced by Adam. Through Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, a new humanity is born, one no longer ruled by Sin and Death but brought into the life of the new Adam.

The crucifixion reveals both the depth of humanity’s captivity to Sin and the power of God’s righteousness to set things right. God’s righteousness is God’s power to rectify what has gone wrong in the world. While Christians are called to pursue justice, the ultimate restoration of creation belongs to God alone. Derek closes the series by reflecting on why The Crucifixion remains one of the most important books he has read on the death of Jesus, while also noting the importance of recovering the kingdom implications of the cross, that is, how the crucified and risen Jesus is revealed as the true King of the nations.

Books Mentioned

• The Crucifixion — Fleming Rutledge

• The Day the Revolution Began — N. T. Wright

• N.T. Wright and the Revolutionary Cross — Derek Vreeland

Scriptures Mentioned

• Matthew 26:26–28

• Genesis 12

• Romans 5:14–15

• 1 Corinthians 15:22

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Rutledge has suggested that all the biblical metaphors of atonement can be gathered under two headings: Christus Victor and substitution. Substitution means that Jesus died for us and in our place. Drawing from Galatians 3:13 and 2 Corinthians 5:21, the episode explores how substitution functions as a participatory exchange. Jesus becomes the curse so we might be freed from it. Jesus becomes sin so we might embody the righteousness of God. The emphasis is not transactional but transformational. 

Romans 8:3 becomes a key text: God “condemned sin in the flesh.” The Father is condemning Sin. He is not condemning the Son. The cross is the place where sin is judged and destroyed. Jesus dies as fully human because humanity is responsible for sin, and fully divine because only God can defeat death. 

To rethink substitution faithfully, Rutledge turns to Karl Barth. In Church Dogmatics IV and Dogmatics in Outline, Barth describes reconciliation as God putting himself in humanity’s place so that humanity might be put in God’s place. This vision echoes Athanasius of Alexandria: “God became man that man might become God.” Substitution, rightly understood, is relational, Trinitarian, incarnational, and resurrection-shaped. 

The episode concludes by affirming substitution as a biblical metaphor—but not the only one. The cross must be held together with incarnation, resurrection, and ascension. God does not turn away from humanity; even in judgment, God’s opposition to evil is the expression of divine love. 

Russell Moore’s interview with Flemming Rutledge is here: https://www.russellmoore.com/2023/03/29/fleming-rutledge-on-the-cross/ 

Books Mentioned 

• The Crucifixion by Fleming Rutledge 

• Stricken by God? edited by Brad Jersak & Michael Hardin 

• A More Christlike God by Brad Jersak 

• Violence, Hospitality, and the Cross by Hans Boersma 

• Dogmatics in Outline by Karl Barth 

Scriptures Mentioned 

• Acts 3:15 

• Galatians 3:13 

• 2 Corinthians 5:21 

• Romans 3:24–25 

• Romans 5:12–21 

• Romans 8:3 

 
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Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 

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Christus Victor is the great battle metaphor of the atonement. At the cross, Jesus defeats the enslaving powers of Sin, Death, and the devil. These are not abstract ideas, but active forces holding humanity in bondage. Drawing from Colossians 2:15 and Romans 5-6, Rutledge frames the cross as apocalyptic, that is an an unveiling or revelation. The crucifixion reveals that Jesus is Lord. Authority has shifted. Sin and Death no longer reign. The Lamb who was slain now reigns at the center of the throne. 

Derek clarifies key biblical language surrounding. Gehenna as a metaphor for final judgment, Hades (and Hebrew Sheol) as the realm of the dead. Jesus did not descend into Gehenna to be punished; his suffering was finished at the cross. Rather, the descent proclaims victory. Death is personified as a prison master, and Jesus is the liberator. Rutledge pushes us to take judgment seriously without exaggeration or sentimentality. Hell is best understood not as literal fire but as a domain where evil reigns, a tragic reality of separation from the life of God. 

Finally, the discussion moves to the nature of evil. Following Augustine and Gregory of Nyssa, Rutledge affirms that evil is not a created substance but a privation of the good (privatio boni). Evil is real and destructive, but it lacks actual substance. Evil is like a hole in the ground. It does not have substance but it can trip us up. It cannot be explained away, only denounced and resisted. The Triune God comes in Christ to overthrow the unholy trinity of Sin, Death, and the devil. The gospel is deliverance from the grip of evil and victory belongs to Jesus. 

Books Mentioned 

• The Crucifixion — Fleming Rutledge 
• Christus Victor — Gustaf Aulén 
• The Great Divorce — C. S. Lewis 
• Exclusion and Embrace — Miroslav Volf 

Scriptures Mentioned 

• Colossians 2:15 
• Romans 5:21 
• Romans 6:9, 14, 23 
• 1 Peter 3 

 
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This episode also tackles the controversial question of propitiation. Rutledge argues that the Greek word hilasterion in Romans 3:25 should not be translated as “propitiation” (appeasing an angry God), but as expiation, that is the removal of sin. The barrier between God and humanity is not God’s anger but our sin. Redemption, then, is the Triune God’s loving work of buying back humanity from the enslaving powers of Sin, Death, and the Devil. Judgment, or what Rutledge calls “The Great Assize,” is not contrary to love but an expression of it. God’s righteous commitment to set the world right. 

Books Mentioned 

• The Crucifixion — Fleming Rutledge 
• The Day the Revolution Began by N. T. Wright 
• Centering Jesus by Derek Vreeland 
•On the Incarnation by Athanasius 

Scriptures Mentioned 

• Exodus 12–15 
• Leviticus 16 
• Isaiah 53:7 
• Romans 3:25 
• Romans 8:3 
• Hebrews 9:26 
• Mark 10:45 
• 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 
• Matthew 25 
• John 8 

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Derek engages Rutledge appreciatively but critically, clarifying where he agrees, where he wrestles, and where he remains unconvinced. Theology at its best does not simply settle questions but deepens them in faithful and prayerful ways.

This episode explores Anselm’s satisfaction theory, how it differs from penal substitution, and why Rutledge’s retrieval, guided in part by Eastern Orthodox theologian David Bentley Hart, deserves careful attention. Derek also raises important questions about obedience, the life of Jesus, and whether “satisfaction” is best understood as a life faithfully lived rather than a transactional mechanism centered on death alone.

The episode concludes with Rutledge’s sobering chapter on the gravity of Sin, where sin is not treated as a collection of bad choices but as a dark, enslaving power paired with Death itself. Only when we take sin seriously, Rutledge insists, can we begin to understand why the cross had to be as ugly and costly as it was.

Key Takeaways

• Anselm’s satisfaction theory is distinct from penal substitution

• Satisfaction focuses on restoring God’s honor; penal substitution focuses on punishment.

• Rutledge does not defend a transactional or appeasement-based view of atonement.

• Jesus’ obedient and faithful life raises important questions about what truly satisfies God.

• Sin is not merely individual wrongdoing but a power that enslaves and destroys.

• In Scripture, Sin and Death function as ruling forces over humanity.

• The ugliness of the cross corresponds to the gravity and power of sin.

• The cross makes no sense unless we take sin far more seriously than modern culture does.

Books Mentioned

• The Crucifixion — Fleming Rutledge

• On the Incarnation — Athanasius

Scriptures Mentioned

• Romans 5:19

• 1 Corinthians 15:3

• Romans 6:12

• Romans 6:17

• Romans 7:11

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Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk

Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0

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Before the cross became a polished religious symbol, it was an instrument of terror, shame, and public humiliation. Rutledge insists that if we want to understand what the death of Jesus means, we must first face what it was: irreligious, degrading, and horrifying. Only by grounding the crucifixion in its historical reality can we begin to grasp how God’s justice and mercy meet at the cross.

This episode also explores Rutledge’s reframing of divine justice—not as punishment for punishment’s sake, but as God’s work of rectifying what is broken. God’s wrath, she argues, is not an emotional outburst, but God’s active opposition to sin and evil for the sake of setting the world right.

Key Takeaways

• The cross was not a religious symbol but an instrument of public shame and terror.

• The manner of Jesus’ death matters as much as the fact of his death.

• Roman crucifixion was designed to humiliate, dehumanize, and warn entire populations.

• God’s justice in Scripture is about rectification, not mere punishment.

• Forgiveness restores relationships; justice seeks to make things right.

• The wrath of God is not emotional rage but God’s active opposition to evil.

• God’s justice is restorative, aimed at healing what sin has corrupted.

Books Mentioned

• The Crucifixion — Fleming Rutledge

• The Day the Revolution Began — N. T. Wright

• The Cross and the Lynching Tree — James Cone

Scriptures Mentioned

• John 1:29

• Isaiah 1:16–17

• Matthew 12:18

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Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk

Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0

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In a religious culture often drawn toward inspiration, self-help, or relevance at all costs, Rutledge refuses to soften the offense of the gospel. She insists that Christianity does not begin with moral improvement or spiritual techniques, but with an event no one would have invented—the public execution of the Son of God. 

In this episode, Derek explores why Rutledge’s work matters so deeply, how her life as a parish priest shaped her theology, and why the cross remains the central, unsettling, and hope-filled truth of the Christian faith. This episode sets the stage for a slow, careful walk through a book that refuses easy answers and instead invites us to live within the tensions of judgment and mercy, suffering and hope, cross and resurrection. 

 
Key Takeaways 

• The Crucifixion is the fruit of over twenty years of pastoral preaching and theological reflection. 
• Christianity begins with an event that looks like failure: the execution of a crucified man. 
• Rutledge writes as a preacher and pastor, not as a detached academic or system-builder. 
• The cross is not a metaphor or symbol, but God’s decisive confrontation with sin, death, and evil. 
• The gospel resists being reduced to self-help, moral uplift, or religious technique. 
• Christian faith is learned by living within tension, not resolving it prematurely. 
• The crucifixion reveals who God truly is—and redefines how God rules and reigns. 

 
Books Mentioned 
Violence, Hospitality, and the Cross by Hans Boersma 
The Day the Revolution Began by N. T. Wright 
N.T. Wright and the Revolutionary Cross by Derek Vreeland 
The Crucifixion by Fleming Rutledge 

 
Scriptures Mentioned 
John 1:29 
John 18:33–37 
1 Corinthians 2:2 

 
Resource Mentioned 
Russell Moore interview with Fleming Rutledge (2023): 
https://www.russellmoore.com/2023/03/29/fleming-rutledge-on-the-cross/ 
 
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Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk 
Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 

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Drawing on Aristotle’s vision of ethics and virtue, and later Christian thinkers like Thomas Aquinas, this episode reframes ethics not as rule-keeping or performance, but as becoming the kind of people God intends us to be. Hypocrisy thrives on the disconnection between being and doing; virtue restores harmony through practiced faithfulness. 

Aristotle isn’t our savior; Jesus is! But his wisdom can help Christians recover integrity, wholeness, and a life well lived. 

Key Takeaways 

• Hypocrisy is not healed by effort alone, but by formation. 

• Salvation is a gift of grace, but grace is given for a way of life shaped by good works. 

• Aristotle’s ethics focus on becoming good, not merely doing right. 

• Virtue is a habit formed over time that aligns our inner life with our outward actions. 

• Practices shape character; character shapes desire. 

• Wholeness emerges when being and doing are brought back into harmony. 

Books mentioned in this episode: 

• Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle 

• From Aristotle to Christ by Louis Markos 

Scriptures mentioned in this episode: 

• Ephesians 2:8–10 

  
  

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Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 

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Rather than throwing stones, this episode turns inward. Hypocrisy is not simply something “out there” among fallen leaders. It is a temptation that lives close to home. Following Jesus requires honest lament over our brokenness and a renewed pursuit of integrity rooted in virtue and the Spirit’s transforming work. The disconnect between our interior life and our public life, between being and doing, lies at the heart of the problem. 

Sin is more than bad behavior; it is missing the mark and undermining who we were created to be as image-bearers of God. Hypocrisy emerges when we seek the rewards of discipleship without embracing the slow, humbling work of transformation. Jesus had little patience for religious performance, confronting outward righteousness that concealed inward decay. 

The episode concludes with hope. If you recognize yourself in this struggle, you are not alone. You are not beyond repair. You may simply be a recovering hypocrite—and recovery is possible. 

Key Insights 

• Hypocrisy is not struggling and failing; it is pretending without pursuing transformation. 

• Sin fractures the harmony between being and doing, making hypocrisy inevitable. 

• The root of hypocrisy is not merely theological but ontological, that is, a problem of being. 

• Christian formation requires virtue, humility, and dependence on the Spirit. 

• Recovery from hypocrisy begins with honest self-examination, repentance, and grace. 

Books mentioned on this episode: 

• From Aristotle to Christ — Louis Markos 

• What’s So Amazing About Grace? — Philip Yancey 

Scriptures mentioned on this episode 

• Mark 7:6–7 

• Matthew 23:27–28 

Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: 

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Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs 

Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk 

Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 

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Derek is joined by Louis Markos, Professor of English and Scholar in Residence at Houston Christian University and holder of the Robert H. Ray Chair in Humanities. A prolific author, speaker, and public intellectual, Markos has written over thirty books on topics ranging from classical literature and philosophy to C. S. Lewis, Tolkien, and Christian apologetics. His latest book, From Aristotle to Christ: How Aristotelian Thought Clarified the Christian Faith, is the third volume in a trilogy exploring how pagan philosophy prepared the way for Christian theology. 

Their conversation focuses especially on Aristotle’s ethics, the nature of virtue, the role of habit in moral formation, and how Christians can affirm virtue without falling into works-righteousness. Together, Derek and Lou explore how Aristotle can help believers think clearly about goodness, character, and holiness in a morally confused age while keeping Jesus firmly at the center. 

Key Highlights 

• Lou Markos’s journey into faith, philosophy, and literature 

• Aristotle’s understanding of virtue, goodness, and habit 

• The role of habit in forming character 

• The “self-reinforcing cycle” of virtue and habit 

• How Aristotle helps believers conform their souls to the image of Christ 

Book mentioned in this episode: 
From Achilles to Christ: Why Christians Should Read the Pagan Classics by Louis Markos 
From Plato to Christ: How Platonic Thought Shaped the Christian Faith by Louis Markos 
From Aristotle to Christ: How Aristotelian Thought Clarified the Christian Faith by Louis Markos 
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis 

Louis Markos’ Amazon page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001JSBEBG?ingress=0&visitId=c43cc519-1ee8-4d84-b220-be3385b263bf&ref_=ap_rdr 

Louis Markos’ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1mcYKcQaJDA_a7sFVsHSgg 

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Two weeks into the new year, Derek offers a word of grace for those who may already feel discouraged by abandoned New Year’s resolutions. God’s mercy is deeper than our resolve—and lasting change is formed through habits, not willpower. Drawing on the difference between resolutions and habits, Derek reminds us that habits shape who we are becoming, not just what we do.

From there, the episode turns to a personal shift: after years of reading almost exclusively non-fiction including theology, Scripture, and church history, Derek has returned to reading novels. Inspired by Eugene Peterson’s encouragement that pastors and Christians would be well-served to read fiction, Derek shares six reasons why it matters for people of faith including:

1. Scripture Is a Story

The Bible is not merely a collection of ideas but a unified narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and new creation. Fiction trains us to read Scripture as living story rather than disconnected facts.

2. The Gospel Is a Story

Good news is always narrated. Fiction helps us grasp narrative logic with beginnings, middles, and endings, so we can hear the gospel as something that has happened, not merely instructions to follow.

3. Stories Are Three-Dimensional

Fiction immerses us in character, motivation, struggle, and emotion, cultivating empathy and helping us understand the complexity of real human lives.

4. Stories Shape Discipleship

Like Jesus’ parables, stories invite transformation rather than mere information. Fiction allows us to see grace, forgiveness, courage, and repentance embodied in lived experience.

5. Everyone Has a Story

Human lives are narratives, not bullet points. Reading fiction trains us to listen well—to attend to nuance, pain, joy, and transformation in others.

6. The Gospel Is Best Shared Through Our Story

We proclaim the good news not only through explanation but through witness—by telling what God has done in our lives. Fiction helps us inhabit and tell stories that resonate with truth.

Derek concludes by reflecting on how reading fiction, most recently The Lord of the Rings, has rekindled his imagination and deepened his engagement with Scripture. Fiction doesn’t replace Bible reading; it enriches it, helping us see more clearly the living story God is telling in the world and in our lives.

The episode closes with a reading from The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien, reminding us that some of the deepest truths are carried not by arguments, but by stories.

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Preorder Derek’s new books releasing February 17, 2026:

Crucifixion: 8 Lesson on How God Saves Us

Resurrection: 8 Lessons on how God Restores Us

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Derek also acknowledges the painful weight January 6 carries in the United States, recalling the 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. He contrasts two kinds of “epiphanies” —one that reveals a kingdom of love, truth, and self-giving sacrifice, and another that revealed how rhetorical violence can turn into real violence. Epiphany, he reminds us, is clarifying. It reveals things as they are. 

The episode then turns to the baptism of Jesus, the central Epiphany moment where God’s revolutionary kingdom is revealed. Drawing on Israel’s story, the Exodus, and the crossing of the Jordan, Derek shows how Jesus reenacts and fulfills Israel’s calling—not through conquest, but through love. In Jesus’ baptism, the Trinity is revealed, and we hear the words that define our identity before God: “You are my beloved.” 

Epiphany, Derek says, prepares us for repentance by first grounding us in revelation by helping us see who Jesus truly is and who we are becoming in His light. 

Key Insights 

• Epiphany celebrates the revelation of Jesus as Light of the World and King of the nations 

• January 6, 2021 was an epiphany revealing the danger of violent rhetoric 

• Epiphany shows that revelation is never neutral; light clarifies and exposes 

• Jesus’ baptism fulfills Israel’s story and reimagines power through love 

• The Jordan River connects Jesus to ancient Israel and God’s rescue plan 

• In Jesus, we receive our identity before we perform: beloved sons and daughters 

Scripture Verses Mentioned in this Episode 

• Psalm 99:1–2 

• John 3:16 

• Matthew 3:13–17 

• Genesis 12 

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Derek shares how he first learned to pray the Psalms during a season of frustration as a young youth pastor, discovering that David’s battles with enemies gave him language to fight the interior enemies of his soul. Praying the Psalms taught him emotional honesty, resilience, and trust. 

He then walks through five reasons to adopt this practice in 2026, emphasizing how the Psalms root us in an ancient community, embrace every human emotion, provide a language of prayer, and use powerful metaphors to connect the seen and unseen. 

Highlights 

• Habits shape us more than resolutions. 

• Praying one psalm a day is a simple and transformative spiritual practice. 

• The Psalms root us in the ancient prayers of Israel—and of Jesus Himself. 

• They give voice to every human emotion, including anger, lament, and hope. 

• The Psalms teach us how to pray when we don’t know what to say. 

• Their metaphors help us encounter God in ordinary life. 

• Derek shares how praying Psalm 71 reshaped his early ministry by helping him confront inner enemies. 

Resources 

Psalm of the Day Chart: 
https://derekvreeland.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Psalm-for-the-day.pdf 

Book mentioned in this episode: 
Answering God by Eugene Peterson 

Scriptures mentioned in this episode 
Psalm 71, Psalm 23 

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Derek begins by reminding listeners that Christmas is a season—not just a single day. The twelve days of Christmas stretch all the way to Epiphany on January 6, and this is a time for feasting, joy, and gratitude. So grab your Christmas cookies and keep celebrating! 

From there, Derek introduces Tim Wildsmith, well known for his popular YouTube Bible-review channel (now with over 266,000 subscribers), but also a gifted pastor, professor, musician, and thoughtful communicator. Tim currently serves as the Interim Pastor at Crievewood Baptist Church in Nashville, where he lives with his wife, Becca. 

Tim first appeared back in Episode 45 to discuss his debut book Bible Translations for Everyone. Today he returns to share the heart, structure, and vision behind his new year-long guidebook for reading Scripture with depth, clarity, and joy. 

Throughout the conversation, Derek and Tim explore how the Daily Scripture Guidebook helps readers move through the Bible at a sustainable pace, with weekly overviews, word studies, and space for journaling. They also talk about the emotional and spiritual challenges many people face when attempting to read the Bible consistently—and how Tim’s book (and companion podcast) aims to make daily Scripture engagement more meaningful and accessible. 

Key Topics in This Episode 

• How a yearlong rhythm fosters consistency, formation, and daily time with Jesus 

• Helping readers overcome common Bible-reading struggles 

• Navigating both Old and New Testaments 

• Building a habit of reflection and journaling 

• Introducing the companion podcast: “Daily Scripture with Tim Wildsmith” 
   

Books Mentioned in This Episode 

• Daily Scripture Guidebook: A 52-Week Journey Through the Bible by Tim Wildsmith 

• Bible Translations for Everyone by Tim Wildsmith 

• The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language by Eugene Peterson 

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Drawing from Lewis’s works, Derek explains why imagination is essential for understanding the deeper meaning of Christmas. “Reason is the organ of truth,” Lewis wrote, “but imagination is the organ of meaning.” Before truth can be grasped, it must mean something and meaning is carried through images, metaphors, and stories. 

Through Lucy’s first steps into Narnia, Derek explores our shared longing for another world, one marked by beauty and mystery. This longing, Lewis argues, is a signpost pointing us toward God. And in Jesus’ incarnation, God has given us a doorway, a “wardrobe,” into that greater world. Jesus is the gate, the portal through which we enter the life of God. 

Advent is the season where wonder can be reborn in us. Aslan is on the move. Winter will not last forever. And Christmas is the invitation to step inside. 

Key Takeaways 

• Imagination is essential for meaning. Lewis teaches that before truth can be recognized, it must be imagined.  

• Christmas awakens our longing for another world. Our desire for is itself a clue that we were made for more. 

• Jesus is our wardrobe. In his incarnation, Jesus becomes the doorway into God’s life: “I am the gate… whoever enters by me will be saved” (John 10:7–9). 

• Narnia mirrors our world under winter’s spell. Seasons of spiritual coldness, absence, and longing echo Narnia’s “always winter and never Christmas.” But Aslan’s arrival (like the arrival of Jesus on Christmas Day) signals restoration and joy. 

• Childlike faith opens us to the kingdom. Curiosity, wonder, and openness are not childish. They are the way Jesus teaches us to enter God’s world. 

Four Simple Ways to Step Through the Wardrobe This Advent 

1. Slow down enough to notice beauty. Wonder needs space; beauty is everywhere if we have eyes to see. 

1. Read aloud. Hearing awakens imagination in a way silent reading doesn’t. 

1. Welcome small acts of delight.  Do little things during Advent and Christmas that bring you joy. 

1. Sit with mystery. Resist the urge to explain everything. Let some things remain holy and hidden. 

Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode: 

• John 10:7–9 

Books and Essays Mentioned in This Episode 

• C. S. Lewis, “Bluspels and Flalansferes: A Semantic Nightmare” 
  Selected Literary Essays (1969) 

Read this essay online here: https://ourendgame.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/BluspelsAndFlalansferes.pdf 

• The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C. S. Lewis 

• Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis 

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Before jumping in, Derek reflects on his lifelong journey as a reader and writer, how his calling as a pastor, teacher, and ultimately a writer grew slowly through mentors, quiet spiritual practices, early encouragement, and the rediscovery of a love for reading after meeting Jesus.

Writing, Derek notes, is simply an extension of his pastoral work, much like the life and ministry of Eugene Peterson. Drawing from Winn Collier’s biography A Burning in My Bones, he shares how Peterson modeled a life of faithful pastoral presence shaped through reading, prayer, and writing.

Along with his top reads from this year, Derek also shares what he’s currently reading: The Heart of Philosophy by Jacob Needleman—a book recommended to him years ago by his high school track coach. Needleman’s search for meaning across philosophy and religion echoes the very kind of reading life that formed Derek: a life shaped by curiosity, openness, truth-seeking, and wonder.

Finally, Derek reveals his Top Five Books of 2025, a list filled with theology, philosophy, classic fiction, and spiritual reflection—books that expanded his imagination, nourished his faith, and reminded him why reading still matters.

Key Takeaways

• Writing grows out of vocation. Derek’s passion for writing is inseparable from his calling as a pastor and teacher.

• Reading forms the soul. From quiet morning Bible readings as a teenager to deep philosophical works today, reading has been one of Derek’s primary pathways of spiritual growth.

• Mentors matter. Encouragement from his high school coach and the example of Eugene Peterson helped shape Derek’s identity as a writer.

• Books connect us across time and tradition. Whether classic works or recent releases, good books invite us into deeper wisdom, beauty, and truth.

• Your reading life will ebb and flow. The joy of reading returns when we let curiosity lead the way.

Derek’s Top Five Books of 2025

1. A Strange and Gracious Light by Andrew Arndt

2. The Great Divorce by C. S. Lewis

3. Answering God by Eugene Peterson

4. From Aristotle to Christ by Louis Markos

5. Jesus Changes Everything by Stanley Hauerwas & Charles Moore

Other Books Mentioned in This Episode

• A Burning in My Bones by Winn Collier

• Hannah Coulter by Wendell Berry

• The Heart of Philosophy by Jacob Needleman

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In this rich and reflective episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland explores how the Christian calendar offers a sacred rhythm that forms our lives around Jesus. As we enter the first week of Advent, Derek invites listeners to recover ancient practices that slow us down, reorient our attention, and root us in the ongoing story of Christ.

Rather than fighting culture wars over “Merry Christmas” vs. “Happy Holidays,” Derek reminds us that followers of Jesus are called not to win culture but to make disciples, to become peacemaking servants in a world obsessed with power and control. From Advent to Pentecost to Ordinary Time, the Christian calendar tells and retells the story of Jesus, helping us live our own stories with purpose, hope, and joy.

Derek also shares how practicing the Christian year has transformed his own spiritual life, teaching him humility through tradition, attentiveness through rhythm, and joy through remembrance.

Conversation Themes

Living by a Different Story
How the Christian calendar offers an alternative to the frantic pace of modern life and invites us into the life of Jesus.

Advent and Anticipation
Why waiting, longing, and hope are essential practices for following Jesus in a distracted world.

Tradition and Transformation
Understanding tradition not as lifeless ritual but as the “democracy of the dead,” a way to learn from the wisdom of those who’ve gone before us.

Seasons of Formation
Walking through the seasons of the Christian year—from Advent to Christ the King—and how each one shapes our hearts around the gospel.

Practices for Everyday Life
Simple, meaningful ways to begin observing the Christian year, especially during Advent.

Key Takeaways

• The Christian calendar invites us to live by the story of Jesus rather than the story of consumerism or productivity.

• Advent is a time of hopeful waiting. A four-week season of looking at the brokenness of our world and longing for Jesus to come.

• Tradition is not the enemy of faith but a means of wisdom, a way to learn from the saints who came before us.

• The Christian calendar has transformative power because it:

1. Forms us through rhythm

2. Redirects our attention

3. Roots us in ancient community

4. Makes the ordinary holy

5. Keeps Jesus at the center

6. 
   

Books Mentioned in This Episode

• Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton

• Living the Christian Year by Bobby Gross

Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode

• John 18:36

• Proverbs 15:1

• 2 Thessalonians 2:15

• Mark 7:8

• John 1:14

• Hebrews 12:2

• John 3:17

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In this special Advent episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland welcomes pastor and author Rich Villodas for a conversation about his new devotional book, Waiting for Jesus.

As we enter the season of Advent, Derek and Rich reflect on the countercultural practice of waiting, learning to slow down, be still, and become more attentive to the presence of God. Together they explore how spiritual practices like silence, reflection, and wonder shape our formation and deepen our life with Christ.

Conversation Highlights

The Practice of Silence: Why silence remains central to spiritual formation and how to begin when the quiet feels uncomfortable.

Four Movements of Advent: Waiting, peacemaking, rejoicing, and beholding. These themes help us slow down and prepare for Christmas.

Guides Along the Way: Wisdom from Henri Nouwen, Barbara Brown Taylor, Bonhoeffer, Hauerwas, Willard, and Eugene Peterson on the joy that comes through obedience.

The Tyranny of the Urgent: How individuals and congregations can recover rhythms of waiting in a culture of hurry and distraction.

Hope in Jesus: Rich hopes readers will walk away from reading Waiting for Jesus with a renewed hope in Jesus to come and set right a world gone wrong.

Key Takeaways

Advent is not about frantic preparation but faithful waiting.

Silence and stillness are not empty—they make space for God’s presence.

Joy is not a requirement for discipleship; it’s the fruit of obedience.

Practicing attentiveness helps us resist distraction and rediscover wonder.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Waiting for Jesus by Rich Villodas

A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson

The Deeply Formed Life by Rich Villodas

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As Thanksgiving approaches, Derek invites listeners to move beyond a once-a-year holiday mindset and cultivate an ongoing “attitude of gratitude.” Drawing from Scripture, church history, and his own life, including a story about running his first half marathon, he shows how gratitude changes not our circumstances, but changes how we see God in the midst of our circumstances.

Derek reflects on the wisdom of writers like Ann Voskamp, Henri Nouwen, and Brother Lawrence, alongside the biblical stories of the ten lepers in Luke 17 and Paul’s exhortation to “give thanks in all circumstances.” Through these voices, he reveals how gratitude shifts our focus from scarcity to abundance, from anxiety to trust, and from performance to presence.

At the heart of Christian worship is thanksgiving, the rhythm of receiving grace, giving thanks, and sharing the gift. We see this in the practice of holy communion.

Key Takeaways

• Gratitude is more than good manners. It’s a spiritual posture that shapes how we see the world.

• We give thanks in all circumstances, not for all circumstances.

• Gratitude is the surest way to spiritual life, grounding us in the present moment where God is always at work.

• Holy Communion (or Eucharist) reminds us that thanksgiving stands at the center of Christian worship.

• Practicing gratitude transforms complaint into wonder and scarcity into abundance.

Four Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude

1. Look for small gifts: Notice the simple, daily graces: breath, light, presence.

2. Begin your prayers with thanksgiving: Gratitude opens your heart before you ask for anything.

3. Express gratitude aloud: Tell someone, “I’m thankful for you.” Spoken gratitude multiplies joy.

4. End your day with reflection: Ask, “Where did I experience God’s grace today?” Let thanksgiving close your day.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:
Luke 17:11–19
Colossians 4:2 (MSG)
1 Thessalonians 5:18

Books mentioned in this episode:One Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence

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Derek shares how Eugene Peterson, whom he affectionately calls “Eugene the Wise,” has profoundly shaped his identity as both pastor and writer. Drawing from Answering God: The Psalms as Tools for Prayer and The Message translation of Matthew 11:28–30, Derek explores how Eugene captured not only the meaning of Jesus’ words but their texture—their emotional and spiritual feel.

Through stories from his own life including running track in high school, finding rhythm on the dance floor, and learning to live less from his head and more from his heart, Derek unpacks what it means to live in sync with the grace of God.

This episode invites listeners to slow down, notice the presence of God in the ordinary, and rediscover the gentle, freeing pace of life with Jesus. Grace, like rhythm, cannot be forced. It must be felt, received, and lived.

Key Takeaways

• Grace has a rhythm that can’t be forced; it must be received.

• The “unforced rhythms of grace” describe life lived in sync with Jesus, free, light, and unhurried.

• Faith isn’t a performance of religion but an invitation to relationship.

• The spiritual life is less about control and more about alignment, moving at the pace of Jesus.

• The incarnation means grace is already near, woven into the grit and glory of ordinary life.

Questions for Reflection

• Are you aware of God’s presence with you?

• Have you been burned out by religion or striving?

• What would it look like to walk freely and lightly with Jesus this week?

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:
Matthew 11:28–30 (The Message)
John 1:14

Books mentioned in this episode:Answering God: The Psalms as Tools for Prayer by Eugene Peterson
Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us by Derek Vreeland

Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by:

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While rejecting all forms of political violence, Derek uses this moment to examine the growing fusion of political power and religious language within American Christianity. He argues that Christian nationalism—like the prosperity gospel—offers a counterfeit version of the gospel that trades discipleship for dominance, humility for triumphalism, and the cross for control.

Derek outlines how Christian nationalism seeks to advance the kingdom of God through governmental action, while the prosperity gospel attempts to advance it through material success. Both, he contends, miss the heart of the gospel of King Jesus.

Conversation Themes

• Lament and Clarity: Responding to political violence with grief, prayer, and a renewed commitment to peace.

• What Is Christian Nationalism? Exploring definitions and distinctions between patriotism and nationalism.

• The Turning Point USA Connection: How religious rhetoric and political activism blur the lines between church and state.

• Five Shared Misconceptions: How Christian nationalism and the prosperity gospel both misunderstand the nature of God’s kingdom.

• Following Jesus in a Culture of Power: What it means to reject triumphalism and embrace cruciform discipleship.
  

Key Takeaways

• Christian nationalism and the prosperity gospel both mistake American values for Christian virtues—one exalting power, the other wealth.

• Both misunderstand the purpose of the church, seeing it as a tool for influence rather than a community of witness.

• Both redirect faith away from the triune God toward national or personal interests.

• Both promise what Jesus never promised—national dominance or financial success.

• Both trade discipleship for triumphalism, denying the weakness and humility of the cross.4
  

Books/articles mentioned in this episode:

What Is Christian Nationalism, Actually? by Glenn Packiam (Substack, October 9)

Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States by Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry

Jesus and the Powers by N.T. Wright and Michael F. Bird

Jesus Changes Everything by Stanley Hauerwas

Read a written form of this episode here: https://www.missioalliance.org/how-christian-nationalism-and-the-prosperity-gospel-distort-the-way-of-jesus/

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In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland sits down with pastor and author Andrew Arndt to talk about his latest book, A Strange and Gracious Light: How the Story of Jesus Changes the Way We See Everything. From the poetry of R.S. Thomas to the wisdom of Athanasius, Eugene Peterson, and Pope John Paul II, Andrew explores how the gospel disrupts our assumptions and invites us into a richer way of life.

Key Takeaways

• Why the gospel is both gracious and strange—and why holding the tension matters.

• How the church calendar helps us live inside the story of Jesus year-round.

• What it means to be people of the incarnation—finding God’s presence in ordinary life.

• Why the church is called to propose the way of Jesus, not impose it.

• A fresh vision of the Holy Spirit’s work—in both extraordinary miracles and the quiet, ordinary moments of life.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Romans 5:8

• John 1:14

• Matthew 27:54

• Mark 15:39
  

Books mentioned in this podcast:

• A Strange and Gracious Light: How the Story of Jesus Changes the Way We See Everything, Andrew Arndt

• Streams in the Wasteland, Andrew Arndt

• All Flame, Andrew Arndt

• The Chapel, R.S. Thomas

• On the Incarnation, St. Athanasius

• Spiritual Theology and Liturgical Theology, Simon Chan
  

Order Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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From the opening words of John’s Gospel to the insights of ancient Greek philosophers and church fathers like Athanasius, Derek explores how Jesus is not just a historical figure but the very Word of God—the Logos—who “moved into the neighborhood” for our salvation.

• Why John begins his Gospel with the profound phrase “In the beginning was the Word.”

• How the Greek concept of Logos points us to Jesus as the unifying principle of all creation.

• The paradox of the infinite God taking on finite flesh.

• Why the incarnation isn’t just theology to understand, but a mystery to pause, reflect, and dwell in.

• Athanasius’ timeless reminder that God came down to renew His image in us, because we could not do it ourselves.

• How the incarnation opens a “wardrobe door” (à la C.S. Lewis) into the life of God, inviting us into intimate relationship with Him.

  
  

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• John 1:1–5, 14

• Genesis 1:1

• Ephesians 3:5–6

• John 17:3

Books mentioned in this podcast:

• Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us, Derek Vreeland

• On the Incarnation, Athanasius

• The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, C.S. Lewis

Order Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us, here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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• War is impatience. Fighting often stems from restless, hurried lives that resist waiting on God.

• Jesus is the answer. He embodies God’s covenant faithfulness and calls us to love our enemies.

• Nonviolence is a habit. Like fighting, it can shape us—this time into the image of Christ.

• We can start now. The vision of peace in Isaiah is not only for the future; it begins with us today.
  

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Genesis 12:1-3
• Isaiah 2:1-4

Books mentioned in this podcast:

• Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us by Derek Vreeland
• Being Christian After the Desolation of Gaza edited by Bruce Fisk and J. Ross Wagner
• Prophetic Imagination by Walter Brueggman
• A Field Guild to Christian Nonviolence by David Cramer and Myles Werntz 
  

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What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• The behind-the-scenes journey of how this book came to life—two years in the making!

• Why John 1:14 (“The Word became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood”) sparked an entire Bible study series.

• How the incarnation shows us God’s neighboring presence—God with us, not far away.

• A walk through the eight lessons, from Old Testament promises to Jesus’ birth, to learning “the unforced rhythms of grace” (Matthew 11).

• Why incarnation matters today: before Jesus died for us, He came to us.

Key Takeaways

• God’s desire to be with His people from Genesis to Jesus.

• The Advent promise of peace, justice, and hope fulfilled in Christ.

• What it means for Jesus to be both Messiah and Master.

• Living out the incarnation in our own neighborhoods.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Psalm 97

• Isaiah 2 & 5

• Isaiah 7

• Luke 2

• John 1:14

• Matthew 11:29–30
  

Books mentioned in this podcast:
Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us

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What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Marty shares his own journey—from a fundamentalist evangelical upbringing, through seasons of doubt and “deconstruction,” to a renewed faith rooted in the historical and cultural world of the Bible. You’ll hear why becoming “people of the text” means more than knowing Bible facts—it’s about letting Scripture shape our lives, imaginations, and relationships.

The conversation dives into how the Jewish background of the New Testament illuminates the ministry of Jesus, why historical context must come before theology, and how biblical justice (mishpat) and righteousness (zedekah) work together to restore shalom—wholeness, peace, and flourishing—in a broken world.

Whether you’ve been wrestling with faith, longing for a deeper way to read the Bible, or curious about how Jewish roots change our perspective on the Gospel, this episode offers wisdom, challenge, and hope.

Key Takeaways
✔️ Why historical context changes how we read the Bible
✔️ The difference between Greek and Hebrew ideas of justice
✔️ How righteousness and justice create biblical shalom
✔️ Why curiosity—not certainty—should guide Bible study
✔️ How Jesus’ Jewish world shapes His teaching and ministry

🎧 Listen now and rediscover the Bible as a living, transforming story that points us to Jesus.

Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode:Isaiah 55

Psalm 97

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

• Asking Better Questions of the Bible by Marty Solomon

• Jesus the Jewish Theologian by Brad Young 

Listen to Marty's conversation with Lecrae on The Deep End podcast: https://youtu.be/RN4vJFAJeDI?si=pFNamuQFY4LnWFma

Learn more about Marty Solomon at martysolomon.com. 

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out!

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Derek shares his personal journey of nearly a decade of daily Old Testament reading, rooted in the daily office lectionary, and how it has transformed from duty to delight. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and personal stories, he demonstrates how Christians can uncover the presence of Jesus in the Hebrew Scriptures.
Key Takeaways

• Why the Old Testament is essential reading for Christians today.

• How Jesus Himself taught us to read Scripture with Him at the center (John 5:39; Luke 24).

• The difference between reading the Bible in its historical context and reading it devotionally with Christ in view.

• Insights from Charles Spurgeon and Augustine on finding Christ in every passage.

• How allegory and prayerful reflection reveal Christ in unexpected places.

• A practical example from Psalm 89 of seeing King Jesus in the Psalms.

• Why some verses may not immediately point to Christ—and how to wrestle with that tension.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:
Luke 24:27
Luke 24:44-45
1 Corinthians 10:1-4
Psalm 89:19
Psalm 89:24-27
Books mentioned in this episode:
Jesus-Centered Bible by Group Publishing
Seven Things I Wish Christians Knew about the Bible by Michael Bird

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Derek walks us through:

• Why Joshua and 1 Samuel 15 are such difficult passages for modern readers.

• Four historical Christian approaches to interpreting divine violence: acceptance, accommodation, misunderstanding, and allegory.

• The importance of foundational Christian beliefs—God’s oneness, immutability, pure love, and Jesus as the perfect revelation of God.

• Why wrestling with Scripture is not a weakness, but part of a faithful Christian journey.

• How we can faithfully read the Old Testament while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the Prince of Peace.

This is a thoughtful, theologically rich conversation for anyone who has struggled with the tension between the God of the Old Testament and the God revealed in Christ.
Key Takeaways

• The God of the Old Testament is the same as the God of the New Testament.

• God’s nature is unchanging, pure love—even if the stories in Scripture sometimes leave us unsettled.

• Christians throughout history have used multiple ways to interpret violent passages—we don’t have to resolve the tension to remain faithful.

• Jesus is the final word, the clearest picture of God, and our ultimate guide.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

I Samuel 15:31 Samuel 15:33
John 1:18

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From bloody battles and strange laws to a God who calls His people to peace, the Old Testament can feel confusing—even contradictory to the way of Jesus. But Derek shares why this ancient collection of writings is not only essential, but life-giving for followers of Christ in a modern world.

Drawing from his own journey—from avoiding the Old Testament as a young pastor to delighting in it through daily reading—Derek explores how these Scriptures shape our faith, deepen our understanding of Jesus, and connect us to the ancient people of God. You’ll hear stories from seminary days with his Old Testament professor, insights from the world of Bible translation, and even a Star Wars analogy that will forever change how you see the “backstory” of Scripture.

Whether you’ve loved the Old Testament for years or have quietly ignored it in your Bible reading plan, this episode will give you fresh eyes for its beauty, depth, and indispensable role in the story of redemption.

Key Takeaways
✔️ Why the Old Testament is essential for understanding Jesus and the New Testament
✔️ How it connects us to the ancient story of God’s people
✔️ Why not every Old Testament passage should be read as a moral directive
✔️ How to find Jesus throughout the Old Testament
✔️ Why the Psalms still shape our prayer life today

🎧 Listen now and rediscover the Old Testament as the essential prequel to the story of Jesus.

Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode:
• Exodus 12
• Leviticus 16
• Deuteronomy 21:18–21
• John 1:29

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Brian and Derek reflect on their shared history in the Charismatic Movement—and why both eventually felt called to pack their bags and move on. Using Bob Dylan’s “Maggie’s Farm” as a guiding metaphor, they explore how art, imagination, and poetic theology helped them step away from narrow subcultures and reclaim a deeper, truer spiritual identity. 

Brian talks about how Bob Dylan’s lyrics sparked his love for language—and how that shaped the way he thinks and talks about God. He also shares which books first opened up his theological imagination and how the Holy Spirit led him out of a rigid, formulaic faith into something much richer—rooted in beauty, history, and freedom. 

If you’ve ever struggled to stay true to your convictions in a system that demanded conformity—or wondered how music, literature, and art can renew your spiritual life—this conversation is for you. 

 
Key Takeaways 

✔️ How Bob Dylan’s poetry can reframe your theology 
✔️ What it means to “leave the movement, not the experience” 
✔️ Why imagination and language matter in theological formation 
✔️ The role of books, church history, and beauty in spiritual renewal 
✔️ How to stay faithful to your story when others want you to conform 

🎧 Listen now and rediscover the freedom of becoming fully yourself—with the Holy Spirit as your guide and a Dylan song in your heart. 

Books mentioned in this episode: 

The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard 

Jesus and the Victory of God by N.T. Wright 

The New Testament and the People of God by N.T. Wright 

The Resurrection of the Son of God by N.T. Wright 

You can learn more about Brian Zahnd’s books at: https://amzn.to/4f2sCUo 

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs 

Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! 

Leave a review 

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Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice 

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Derek shares his spiritual journey from Southern Baptist roots to charismatic renewal, through Pentecostal seminary training, and ultimately into a more theologically grounded and historically rooted faith. While he still embraces the gifts and power of the Holy Spirit, Derek outlines eight specific values within the pop Charismatic movement that led him to walk away—including anti-intellectualism, spiritual elitism, and prosperity-driven faith. 

This episode is a heartfelt reflection on what it means to follow the Spirit with wisdom, humility, and discernment. Derek explores how academic theology, the contemplative tradition, and the global church have all enriched his understanding of God the Holy Spirit—and why he now calls himself a "charismatic with a seatbelt." 

If you’ve ever felt torn between being open to the Holy Spirit and staying grounded in theology, this episode is for you. 
 
Key Takeaways 

✔️ Why intellectual rigor and Spirit-led faith are not at odds 
✔️ The danger of measuring spiritual maturity solely by emotion 
✔️ How spiritual elitism harms church unity and witness 
✔️ Why selective Bible reading weakens discipleship 
✔️ The real meaning of blessing, healing, and power of the Holy Spirit 

🎧 Listen now and explore what it looks like to follow the Holy Spirit with passion and wisdom. 

Scriptures mentioned in this episode: 

Galatians 4:13  

Hebrews 11:1–40 

Genesis 12:1–3 

Galatians 5:22–23 

Revelation 21:1–4 

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs 

Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! 

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Episode Website 

Derek shares how his view of the Holy Spirit has evolved—from childhood questions in a Southern Baptist church to transformative encounters as a teenager, through charismatic experiences, and into a mature, ecumenical appreciation for the Spirit’s work today. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and his own story, Derek unpacks why the Holy Spirit is not just an idea or force—but God’s living presence, shaping us to love and live like Jesus.

Along the way, Derek reflects on the Spirit’s role as the agent of God’s work on earth, the giver of spiritual gifts, and the power behind personal and communal transformation. He also highlights the wisdom of Father Raniero Cantalamessa and the invitation for all believers to seek fresh encounters with the Spirit—not once, but over and over.

Whether you’re curious about spiritual gifts, wondering about baptism in the Holy Spirit, or simply longing for renewal, this episode will help you open your heart to God’s ongoing work.

Key Takeaways

✔️ The Holy Spirit is God’s personal presence, not an impersonal force.

✔️ The Spirit empowers believers with love, gifts, and Christlike character.

✔️ Spiritual experiences and scriptural grounding can (and should) go hand in hand.

✔️ Seeking the Holy Spirit is not a one-time event but an ongoing invitation.

✔️ Renewal by the Spirit is essential for both personal faith and church life.

🎧 Listen now and renew your openness to the peace, power, and kindness of God the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Acts 1:8

Romans 5:5

John 20:22

1 Corinthians 13

Jeremiah 31:31–33

Galatians 5:22–23

Books mentioned in this podcast:
Come, Creator Spirit by Raniero Cantalamessa

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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As summer rolls on, Derek reflects on the creative highs and lows of writing and shares a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his process (including an early morning spent fine-tuning a footnote on John Wesley!). He shares how writing and podcasting are extensions of his pastoral calling.

This week’s episode focuses on one essential insight: the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is part of the gospel message. Drawing from Acts 2, 3, and 5, Derek unpacks how the Spirit is present in the earliest gospel sermons preached by Peter. He shows how this insight, often overlooked, reaffirms the inseparable operations of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Spirit working together in the work of salvation.

You’ll also hear three striking patterns in the gospel sermons in Acts:

• No mention of heaven or hell

• A clear emphasis that humanity killed Jesus and God raised him

• A consistent declaration that Jesus is Lord, Messiah, and King

The outpouring of the Spirit isn’t just a one-time event—it’s part of the good news. The Spirit isn’t an optional afterthought but integral to how Jesus continues his rule in and through his people.

Whether you’ve questioned how the Holy Spirit fits into the gospel or are simply seeking to see the gospel with fresh eyes, this episode will help you make that connection.

Key Takeaways

• The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is not just a result of the gospel—it is part of the gospel.

• The gospel proclaimed in Acts includes the resurrection, kingship of Jesus, and the giving of the Spirit.

• The doctrine of inseparable operations teaches that the Trinity works in unity; the Spirit’s work is not separate from the work of Christ.

• “The content of the gospel you preach informs the kind of disciples you make.”

🎧 Listen now and rediscover how the Spirit animates the full gospel message.

Books mentioned in this episode:

• Beyond the Salvation Wars by Matthew Bates

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Acts 2:33, 2:36

• Acts 3:15, 3:20

• Acts 5:30, 5:32, 5:42

Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by:

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Matthew is Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, co-host of the OnScript podcast, and an author whose work has deeply influenced the way we think about the gospel. Drawing from N.T. Wright, Scot McKnight, and others, Matthew has developed the "gospel allegiance" model of salvation—centered on the idea that saving faith (Greek: pistis) means allegiance to King Jesus.

In this episode, Derek and Matthew dig into what that means for long-standing theological divides between Protestants and Catholics, Calvinists and Arminians.

With humor, candor, and a bit of theological edge, this conversation explores everything from the whether or not baptism is the starting point of salvation to the backlash Matthew has received from critics of his allegiance model. Derek doesn’t hold back in sharing how Bates’ work has shaped his thinking, even challenging his own sacramental theology.

Whether you're Reformed, Catholic, Orthodox, or somewhere in between, this episode invites you to reconsider how we talk about salvation—and why it matters now more than ever.

Key Takeaways

• Saving faith is better understood as allegiance to Jesus as King.

• The gospel allegiance model offers a bridge across Protestant-Catholic and Calvinist-Arminian divides.

• Baptism is not an event but a nuanced process which begins by the declaration of allegiance.

• Matthew Bates’ work has drawn pushback—especially from some within the Reformed tradition—but also offers a hopeful vision for Christian unity around the gospel.

• Distinguishing between God’s saving action, the means of reception, and the results can bring clarity to complex debates.

Books mentioned in this episode:

• Salvation by Allegiance Alone – Matthew Bates

• Gospel Allegiance – Matthew Bates

• The Gospel Precisely – Matthew Bates

• Why the Gospel? – Matthew Bates

• Beyond the Salvation Wars – Matthew Bates

• The King Jesus Gospel – Scot McKnight

🎧 Listen now and enter the conversation on what it really means to be saved—and what kind of gospel we are called to believe.

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“We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.”

With honesty, warmth, and a deep love for the Church, Derek explores how these final affirmations hold hope and healing for Christians today—especially for those hurt by churches or struggling to find their place in Christian community.

Drawing from his own teenage years and spiritual formation in a nurturing Baptist church, Derek testifies to the beauty and brokenness of the Church. He offers grace to those wounded by toxic church leadership and reminds listeners why the Church—imperfect as she is—is still the beloved bride of Christ.

Whether you’ve loved the Church, been burned by it, or feel caught somewhere in between, this episode calls us back to what defines us: one Church, one baptism, one great hope in the resurrection and the life to come.

Key Takeaways

• The Church is one—unity is central to Jesus’ prayer for his followers (John 17:21).

• The Church is holy—we are set apart to live distinctively in the world.

• The Church is catholic meaning “universal”, and includes all who affirm the essentials of Christian faith.

• The Church is apostolic—rooted in the teaching of the apostles and the continuing work of the Spirit.

• The Second Vatican Council (1962–1965) helped heal Protestant-Catholic division by affirming shared faith in Christ and calling Protestants “separated brothers and sisters.”

• Lumen Gentium, a key document from Vatican II, reframed the Catholic Church’s identity and opened the door to meaningful Christian unity.

• We are united in the essentials—even if we disagree on politics, denominations, or music styles.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover the hope of the Church and the life of the world to come.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• John 17:21
  John 17:14-19
  Revelation 21:1-5

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Derek shares how his view of the Holy Spirit has grown over the years—from powerful experiences as a teenager in Pentecostal circles to a deeper understanding of the Spirit’s role, shaped by the rich traditions of the Christian faith. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and his own spiritual journey, he unpacks why the Holy Spirit is not merely a force or feeling—but a personal, co-eternal presence alongside the Father and the Son. Along the way, he illustrates how the Spirit has moved in fresh and powerful ways throughout history—not just in biblical times.

Whether you’re curious about spiritual gifts, wrestling with charismatic culture, or simply hungry for a deeper encounter with God, this episode will renew your understanding of the Holy Spirit’s role in your life today.

Key Takeaways

• The Holy Spirit is fully God—personal, divine, and worthy of worship.

• The Spirit transforms hearts from the inside out, not just behaviors.

• Jesus empowers believers through the Spirit to live out the commands of love.

• Spiritual renewal reveals the ongoing work of the Spirit.

• Charismatic experience and historic liturgy can coexist within a Spirit-led life.

• Praying “Come, Holy Spirit” remains vital for daily spiritual strength and guidance.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover the beauty, mystery, and power of God the Holy Spirit.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• John 20:22

• Acts 1:8

• Acts 2: 1-4

• Genesis 2:7

• Jeremiah 31:31-33

• Galatians 5:22-23

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From the historical reality of the crucifixion under Pontius Pilate to the promise of Christ’s return, Derek helps listeners grasp how these core beliefs are more than theological statements—they are the heart of the Christian hope. You'll hear insights into why Jesus had to truly die, how the resurrection fulfills Scripture, and what it means to live with joyful anticipation of Christ’s kingdom that has no end.

Whether you’re new to the Nicene Creed or looking for deeper reflection, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and challenge.

Key Takeaways

• The crucifixion of Jesus rescues us from sin and reveals the love of God.

• Mentioning Pontius Pilate grounds Jesus’ death in history—it really happened.

• Jesus descended into death not to suffer, but to defeat it for our sake.

• “He rose on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures” connects the resurrection to the entire Old Testament story.

• Jesus' ascension means He now reigns with authority from the “control room of heaven.”

• Discover the answer to when Jesus will return in Revelation 22:20.

• His kingdom is both present and coming—and it will never end.

🎧 Listen now to discover the heartbeat of Christian hope through the Creed’s most powerful promises.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Job 19:25–27
Isaiah 26:19
Daniel 12:2
Hosea 6:2
John 3:17
Matthew 24:36

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David shares insights from his new book Homegrown Disciples: Parenting Rhythms for Drawing Your Kids into Life with God. Together, they reflect on what it means to raise children who don’t just attend church—but truly encounter Jesus through the ordinary, everyday rhythms of family life.

From the challenges of raising kids in a pastor’s home to the joys of grandparenting, Derek and David explore how parenting is both a spiritual practice and a sacred apprenticeship. They unpack how rhythms like compassion, generosity, gratitude, and hospitality help form children’s faith, not through perfection, but through vulnerability, honesty, and presence.

If you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver longing to disciple the next generation with authenticity and grace, this episode will leave you encouraged, inspired, and equipped.

Key Takeaways

• Parenting is a sacred apprenticeship—a hands-on way of showing kids how to follow Jesus in everyday life.

• Spiritual leadership in the home isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being honest and present.

• Rhythms like compassion and generosity make abstract beliefs tangible for kids.

• Ordinary moments—mealtime, bedtime, drive time—are powerful opportunities for spiritual formation.

• Kids learn best by watching us live the faith, not just hearing us talk about it.

• Discipleship starts at home, in the real, messy, beautiful rhythms of family life.

Whether you're in the trenches of toddlerhood or navigating the teen years, this episode reminds us that God is with us—forming us as we form our children.

🎧 Listen now and discover the joy of parenting with eternal purpose.

Books mentioned in this podcast:

Homegrown Disciples: Parenting Rhythms for Drawing Your Kids into Life with God by David Sunde

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Derek unpacks what it means for Jesus to come “for us”—not just for individuals, but for a collective us—and why the incarnation is the starting point of salvation. Along the way, he offers thoughtful insights on salvation as transformation (not just a ticket to heaven), evangelism as discipleship, and why honoring Mary, the Blessed Virgin, deepens our understanding of the gospel.

This episode blends humor, biblical depth, church history, and personal storytelling to help listeners grasp the beauty of Jesus’ incarnation—and the revolutionary truth that salvation begins not at the cross, but in a manger.

Key Takeaways

• Salvation isn’t a status we possess—it’s a lifelong process of healing, transformation, and becoming like Jesus.

• Jesus didn’t come to make better citizens—He came to make disciples who embody His kingdom.

• “For us and our salvation” reminds us that the gospel is personal, but never private—it builds a new us called the church.

• Mary’s “yes” to God marks a turning point in salvation history—her obedience undoes Eve’s disobedience.

• Honoring Mary isn’t worship—it’s recognizing her vital role in the incarnation of Jesus.

• Salvation begins with the incarnation: God becoming flesh through the Virgin Mary to live among us, rescue us, and remake us in His image.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Luke 1:39-45

• Luke 1:38

• John 1:14

If you've ever wrestled with what it means to be “saved,” or wondered how ancient creeds connect to modern faith, this episode will deepen your understanding of God's saving love.

🎧 Listen now and be reminded: Jesus moved into our neighborhood—for you, for me, and for all of us.

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With theological insight, personal reflection, and a bit of humor, Derek traces the biblical and historical roots of key phrases like “begotten, not made” and “of one being with the Father,” while making space for mystery, awe, and wonder.

Whether you’re exploring the Creed for the first time or revisiting familiar words with fresh eyes, this episode will anchor your faith in the person of Jesus—fully God, fully man, and King of all.

Key Takeaways

• The Nicene Creed affirms Jesus as fully divine and fully human—the foundation of Christian belief about who He is.

• Saying “one Lord Jesus Christ” boldly proclaims that Jesus, not Caesar or culture, holds ultimate authority in our lives.

• The title “Christ” means King—Jesus is not just Savior but Ruler, deserving our full allegiance and trust.

• Jesus is the eternal Son of God—He was not made but shares the same divine essence as the Father.

• Through Jesus, all things were made—He is both the Word of creation and the King of the cosmos.

🎧 Listen now and explore how the Nicene Creed helps us see Jesus clearly and love him more deeply.

Scriptures mentioned in this podcast:

• John 3:16

• Genesis 1:1

• John 1:1

Books mentioned in this podcast:

• What’s a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam

• The Creed by Luke Timothy Johnson

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With warmth, clarity, and wisdom, Derek reflects on what it means to believe in one God in a world of competing idols and spiritual confusion. Drawing from personal stories, ancient Christian belief, and contemporary relevance, this episode helps us reconnect with foundational truths: God is enough. God is Father. And God is our Creator.

Derek also addresses how the Church can lovingly disagree about how God created the world while staying united in the essential truth that God alone is the Creator of all things.

Key Takeaways

• The Nicene Creed defines the essentials of the Christian faith and brings unity to believers across denominations.

• Belief in “one God” affirms God’s sufficiency and stands against modern-day idols of money, power, and pleasure.

• Jesus reveals that God is not distant or abstract, but personal—our Father.

• God is the Maker of all that is seen and unseen—creation is not accidental, and every person bears the image of God.

• Christians may disagree on the age of the earth or the timeline of creation—but all agree that God is Creator.

Whether you’re new to the Nicene Creed or seeking to deepen your faith, this episode offers a thoughtful starting point that centers your beliefs on the character and nature of God.

🎧 Listen now and be grounded in the faith that has united Christians for centuries.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Genesis 1-2

• John 14:9

• Psalm 118:24

• Psalm 139:13

Books mentioned in this podcast:
What’s a Christian Anyway? by Glenn Packiam: https://amzn.to/4krON7Q
Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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Together, Derek and Glenn unpack how ancient Christian truths speak directly to modern challenges—offering scaffolding for those deconstructing, rebuilding, or simply seeking spiritual clarity. From the Trinity to the story of salvation, and from sacramental life to the wild work of the Holy Spirit, this episode is both pastoral and practical.

Whether you're a lifelong believer or exploring faith for the first time, this conversation invites you to stay in the boat, embrace a deeper story, and remember that the church is bigger—and more beautiful—than we often realize.

Key Takeaways

• Faith is a shared journey—not a solo act. The Creed helps us stay together, even in doubt.

• The Nicene Creed echoes Scripture and centers us on the Trinity.

• It gives guardrails for understanding who Jesus is and how to stay rooted in truth.

• The Christian story leads to new creation—not escape, but renewal and resurrection.

• The Holy Spirit leads us into power, obedience, and transformation.

• Struggling with faith? Stay in the boat. Let others row when you can’t.

🎧 Listen now and discover why the Creed still matters—and how it can anchor your faith in a world of confusion and corruption.

Books mentioned in this podcast:

• Exploring Christian Hope in Contemporary Worship by Glenn Packiam 

• Blessed Broken and Given by Glenn Packiam

• The Resilient Pastor by Glenn Packiam 

• The Intentional Year by Glenn & Holly Packiam

• What’s a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam

• In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen

• The Creed by Luke Timothy Johnson

• Acts: A Theological Commentary on the Bible by Willie James Jennings 

Learn more about Glenn’s new book and get free resources at whatsachristiananyway.com

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Drawing from the Christian calendar and the story arc of Scripture—from Advent to Pentecost, and from creation to new creation—Derek unpacks how the resurrection is the first sign of God's “new creation project.” This episode explores how the Holy Spirit empowers us to love, why Jesus' resurrection signals hope for all humanity, and how Revelation 21 offers a stunning vision of God dwelling with His people in a remade world filled with light, love, and life.

Through personal stories, biblical insight, and reflections on the foundational truths of the faith, Derek reminds us that the Christian journey is not just about what we’re saved from—but what we’re saved for.

Key Takeaways

• Pentecost marks not just the end of Easter, but the beginning of Spirit-empowered living.

• Jesus doesn’t just give us commands—He gives us the power to fulfill them.

• The resurrection of Jesus is the first step in God’s plan to renew all creation.

• “New creation” is not just symbolic; it’s a real, ongoing reality we’re invited into.

• Revelation 21 isn’t about escaping earth—it’s about heaven coming to earth.

• The end of the story is hope: no more death, no more tears, only the light and love of the Lamb.

Whether you’re walking through grief, wrestling with tradition, or seeking a deeper hope, this episode will reorient your heart to the promise that God is making all things new—starting now.

🎧 Listen now and be renewed by the promise of resurrection and restoration.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Galatians 6:15
2 Corinthians 5:17
Revelation 1:1
Revelation 21:1-5
Revelation 21:22-26

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Grounded in 1 Corinthians 15, Derek gently unpacks what he calls the “resurrection scheme of things”—God’s powerful plan to conquer death, bring renewal, and begin His work of new creation in each of us. With pastoral insight and real-life reflection, he speaks honestly about doubt, shares stories of faith under pressure, and reminds us why the resurrection of Jesus is not just central to Christian faith—it’s our greatest hope.

Key Takeaways

• The resurrection of Jesus is not metaphor—it’s the linchpin of Christian faith.

• Without the resurrection, everything else falls apart; with it, everything changes.

• Our future resurrection mirrors the risen Christ: new, immortal, and glorious.

• Doubt is part of faith formation—what matters is wrestling with it in community.

• Death is not our end—it’s been swallowed up by triumphant life through Jesus.
  

This episode reminds us that resurrection isn't just a future hope—it’s a present reality that reshapes how we live, love, and trust in God’s promise to make all things new.

🎧 Listen now and be encouraged in your faith journey.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Psalm 14:1

1 Corinthians 15:13-20

1 Corinthians 15:25-28

1 Corinthians 15:35-44

1 Corinthians 15:51-57

Article mentioned in this podcast:
8 Facts about Atheists: https://bit.ly/4m6PGnY

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Rather than separating the “spiritual” from the “ordinary,” Derek challenges us to see our whole lives as holy—lived in response to what God has already done through the death and resurrection of Jesus. This episode is a warm and hopeful reminder that transformation doesn’t happen in a vacuum, but in the midst of everyday, ordinary life.

Key Takeaways

• Your everyday routines—sleeping, eating, working—can be acts of worship.
• Joy isn’t about ignoring pain; it’s about holding on to hope through the resurrection.
• Worship starts with embracing what God has already done for us.
• God changes us from the inside out, not by pressure but by love.
• Singing together can lift our hearts and deepen our faith.

Whether you’re carrying burdens or simply trying to live more intentionally, this episode reminds us that God is just as engaged in our daily routines as He is in our Sunday worship.

Scriptures mentioned in this podcast:

• John 15:11
• Galatians 5:22-23
• Romans 12:1-2

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Santosh shares his journey from India to Canada, his calling to ministry at age 17, and the role reading plays in his life—highlighting how habits of daily reading, immersion in literature and theology, and staying rooted in the Sermon on the Mount have shaped him as a leader and disciple.

As the conversation turns toward peacemaking in an era of political and cultural polarization, Derek and Santosh unpack why understanding others' stories is a key to transcending outrage culture and reclaiming Christlike kindness. They explore practical ways for Christians to embody peace and resist echo chambers, while holding fast to kingdom values that rise above nationalism and partisanship.

Whether you’re a pastor, teacher, or a curious follower of Jesus, this episode offers wisdom for leading, listening, and living peaceably in a noisy world.

Key Takeaways

• Eugene Peterson teaches us how to lead with integrity, not ego.

• Daily reading builds spiritual depth and helps Christians grow in wisdom.

• The Sermon on the Mount is a practical guide for living out the way of Jesus.

• Real peace starts by listening to people outside your echo chamber.

• Christians are called to reject outrage and live for the kingdom.

• Spiritual formation means facing hard truths while staying grounded in Scripture.

Books mentioned in this podcast:

• A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson

• Under the Unpredictable Plant by Eugene Peterson

• Working the Angles by Eugene Peterson

• Answering God by Eugene Peterson

• A Burning in My Bones by Winn Collier

• Jesus Changes Everything by Stanley Hauerwas

• The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory by Tim Alberta

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Rooted in Romans 6 and the message of Easter, this episode walks listeners through the symbolism of baptism, the fear-shattering truth of resurrection, and reveals practical ways to live free from the grip of death, denial, and despair. Whether you're navigating grief, spiritual renewal, or simply looking to reorient your life around resurrection hope, this episode offers encouragement to walk forward in grace.

Key Takeaways

·       Resurrection isn’t just belief—it’s a new way to live daily.

·       The fear of death loses its grip when we live in light of Easter.

·       Baptism symbolizes dying to sin and rising into a new grace-filled life.

·       Healthy grieving includes creating meaning through loss.

·       Avoiding death through denial, debauchery, or extreme discipline misses the path of discipleship.

·       Romans 6 paints resurrection life as leaving the old country of sin for a new land ruled by grace.

·       Jesus’ resurrection means death never gets the final word—Jesus does.

·       The power of resurrection isn’t just future hope—it brings renewal to dead dreams, broken relationships, and weary hearts today.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

·       Hebrews 2:14-15

·       1 Corinthians 15:32

·       Romans 6:1-9

·       John 11:35

Books mentioned in this podcast:

·       Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief by David Kessler

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out!

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Derek shares personal stories about overcoming his fear of funerals, the importance of showing up for those who grieve, and how Christian hope is rooted not just in going to heaven, but in the promise of resurrection.

Drawing from John 11 and the story of Lazarus, Derek unpacks Jesus’ bold declaration: “I am the resurrection and the life.” This episode challenges listeners to trust in Jesus daily, not just as an idea, but as the living embodiment of resurrection power.

Whether you're walking through grief, longing for hope, or reflecting on the meaning of Easter, this episode offers encouragement, biblical insight, and a reminder that death does not have the final word.

Key Takeaways

• Resurrection is the foundation of Christian hope — not just heaven.
• Jesus is resurrection and life — this is personal, not theoretical.
• Funerals are sacred moments to show up, grieve, and offer presence.
• John 11 reveals Jesus' deep love for friends in their sorrow.
• The hope of resurrection invites us to trust Jesus daily — in life, in death, and beyond.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

John 11:5-27

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As Lent gives way to Easter, Derek invites listeners into the celebration of resurrection life. Drawing from scripture, church tradition, and personal Easter experiences—from pancake breakfasts to fire pit hot dog roasts—he shows how the resurrection shifts our understanding of defeat and death into triumph and new creation.

Join Derek as he begins a new series exploring the lasting impact of the resurrection. You’ll be encouraged to view your suffering through the lens of Jesus’ victory and reminded that the light of resurrection still shines in today’s darkness.

Key Takeaways:

• The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of Christian faith—it’s not metaphor, but a historical, physical reality.
• Without resurrection, the cross looks like defeat; with it, the crucifixion becomes a moment of divine victory.
• Resurrection reframes how we experience despair, allowing us to live with unshakable hope even in dark times.
• Christian traditions—like Easter gatherings and communal meals—help anchor us in joy and the story of new life.
• Choosing silence and holding onto hope in the midst of chaos can become a powerful witness to the peace and kindness of Christ.

Whether you’re basking in the light of Easter or struggling to hold onto hope, this episode offers encouragement grounded in the good news that resurrection changes everything.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• 1 Corinthians 15:13–14
• 1 Timothy 3:16
• Psalm 30:3–5
• John 8:3–11
• Revelation 21:4

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Join Derek as he unpacks the biblical narrative, from the Book of Exodus to the teachings of Jesus, and discover how the establishment of the New Covenant through Jesus' sacrificial death brings about new creation and lasting peace. Through this engaging conversation, you'll gain fresh insights into the significance of the cross and what it means for believers today.

Key Takeaways:

• Maundy Thursday commemorates Jesus’ Last Supper, where He introduced the New Covenant and modeled sacrificial love.
• Salvation isn’t solely about going to heaven; it’s about the restoration of all creation.
• The biblical concept of Shalom reflects God’s desire for peace and wholeness in the world.
• Through Jesus, the exile of sin ends, ushering in a new Exodus and a renewed relationship with God.
• The vision of New Jerusalem in Revelation paints a picture of heaven and earth united, where God dwells with His people.

Whether you've questioned traditional views of salvation or are seeking a deeper understanding of the cross, this episode offers a compelling perspective rooted in scripture.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• John 13:34
• John 3:16
• Luke 24:31
• Acts 1:6
• Matthew 26:26-27
• Jeremiah 31:31-34
• Revelation 21:1-5

Books mentioned in this episode: The Day the Revolution Began by N.T. Wright

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Tim shares his journey of falling in love with Scripture, the process behind different translation philosophies, and why having a team of Bible translations on your shelf can enrich your understanding of God’s Word. Whether you're a seasoned Bible reader or just starting your journey, this episode will help you navigate the vast world of Bible translations with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Bible translation spectrum: Word-for-word vs. thought-for-thought.
• Literal vs. accurate: Why clarity matters in translation.
• KJV history: How Tyndale shaped English Bible translations.
• The Message Bible: Why it’s useful but also controversial.
• Best Bible versions: How to choose the right one for you.
• Multiple translations: Why using different versions deepens study.
• NET Bible insights: How translator notes clarify key passages.

📖 Bible translations discussed in this episode:

• English Standard Version (ESV)
• New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)
• New Living Translation (NLT)
• Christian Standard Bible (CSB)
• The Message (MSG)
• New English Translation (NET)

🔗 Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Tim Wildsmith’s YouTube Channel: YouTube.com/TimWildsmith
• Tim’s Website: TimWildsmith.com
• Book: Bible Translations for Everyone: https://amzn.to/4hfTeRo

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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With heartfelt insight, Derek unpacks how Jesus, our Great Physician, heals us both body and soul. From the flu-stricken trenches of parenting to the quiet pain of soul wounds, this episode reminds us that salvation isn’t just about forgiveness, it’s about wholeness.

If you've ever wrestled with spiritual pain, questioned God’s healing power, or wondered how the wounds of Christ offer more than just symbolism, this episode is your invitation to bring your brokenness to Jesus—and find real restoration.

Key Takeaways

• Lent isn’t about following strict rules—it’s a time to slow down, reflect, and make space for God to do some healing work in us.
• The second chapter of 1 Peter gives us a glimpse of Jesus’ suffering—not just as something He endured for us, but as a model for how we can respond to pain without bitterness or revenge.
• “By His wounds, you have been healed” isn’t just a beautiful phrase—it’s a promise. Jesus’ suffering brings healing for the physical, emotional, and spiritual wounds we carry with us every day.
• Sin isn’t just doing the wrong thing—it’s more like a sickness that wears us down. Jesus meets us there, ready to restore and renew.
• Healing doesn’t always happen overnight. But even when we don’t see it right away, God is working—so don’t give up praying, hoping, and trusting.

Whether your wounds come from your own sin or the pain others have caused, this episode offers hope: Jesus still heals. Keep seeking. Keep knocking. The Physician is near.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Jeremiah 3:19-21

1 Peter 2:21-24

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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Derek unpacks key passages from Hebrews that reveal how Jesus, as our High Priest, fulfills and surpasses the Old Testament sacrificial system. He explains how Jesus' sacrifice was once for all, breaking the power of sin and death and opening the way for us to experience God’s presence like never before.

If you've ever wrestled with the meaning of atonement, struggled with misconceptions about God’s nature, or wanted a clearer biblical understanding of the cross, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Takeaways:

• The Book of Hebrews gives us a powerful biblical imagination for understanding the cross, sacrifice, and atonement.
• Jesus is our High Priest, offering His own blood to cleanse us from sin and secure our redemption forever.
• The cross isn't about satisfying God's wrath—it’s about God’s radical love breaking the power of sin and death.
• Forgiveness of sins restores our covenant relationship with God and marks the beginning of a new creation.
• Through Jesus’ sacrifice, we can boldly enter God’s presence, free from guilt and shame.
• The cross is the end of all sacrifice—Jesus' death fulfilled and completed the old system, bringing true reconciliation.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Hebrews 1:1-3 – Jesus as the radiance of God’s glory
• Hebrews 2:14-17 – Jesus breaks the power of death
• Hebrews 8:6-7 – The new and better covenant
• Hebrews 9:11-14 – Christ’s sacrifice purifies us forever
• Hebrews 10:19-22 – Jesus opens the way into God’s presence

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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He unpacks the true meaning of atonement—moving beyond the common view of punishment to reveal it as a divine mystery of sacrifice, healing, and redemption. With insights drawn from Scripture, including powerful references from Isaiah 53 and Romans 3, Derek challenges us to rethink atonement as more than a transaction; it's about restoring our relationship with God.

Join him as he shifts the focus from appeasing God's wrath to embracing the transformative power of healing through Jesus' death and resurrection.

Key Takeaways:

• Lent: A 40-day spiritual journey preparing us for Easter.
• Atonement: It’s not about punishment; it's about covering and cleansing our sins.
• Dive into the mystery: Atonement is a profound, divine process of reconciliation.
• Metaphorical language plays a crucial role in understanding theological concepts.
• The "punishment" metaphor is found in Scripture but not the full story.
• No verse in the Bible says “Jesus was punished for our sins.”
• The cross confronts the real problems: sin and death.
• The Greek word hilasterion is about the place of atonement, the mercy seat.
• Leviticus 16 paints a picture of atonement with no mention of punishment.
• Atonement is ultimately about healing, redemption, and the restoration of our relationship with God.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Isaiah 53:4

Isaiah 53:5

Romans 3:23-25

Leviticus 16:14-16

Leviticus 16:30

Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs

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This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking a stronger theological foundation for peacemaking and reconciliation, especially during Lent. Brad also shares eye-opening insights on reading scripture through the lens of Christ, challenging common misconceptions about God’s true nature. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will reshape how you view faith and the cross.

Key Takeaways

• The cross is the ultimate revelation of God's true nature.
• To fully grasp the cross, we must see it in light of the resurrection.
• Toxic views of God often arise from poor teaching and personal wounds.
• Reading scripture through the lens of Christ uncovers deeper, transformative truths.
• The cross is both our rescue from sin and a powerful display of God's love.
• Misunderstandings of an angry God can stunt spiritual growth.
• The Emmaus approach to scripture links the Old Testament to Christ’s fulfillment.
• A Christ-centered view of God can radically change lives.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Romans 5:9

Books mentioned in this episode:

A More Christlike God by Bradley Jersak

Learn more about what Brad is doing at St. Stephens University

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Key Takeaways

• Lent is a time for reflection and preparation for Easter.
• The cross is central to the Christian faith and understanding of salvation.
• Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 provide prophetic insights into Jesus' crucifixion.
• Jesus' cry from the cross echoes the anguish of Psalm 22.
• The suffering servant in Isaiah 53 represents Jesus' role in bearing humanity's sins.
• Jesus' crucifixion was a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
• The abandonment felt by Jesus on the cross is a profound moment in the narrative.
• God's plan involved both the suffering and the resurrection of Jesus.
• Understanding the context of Jesus' life enhances our comprehension of his death.
• The season of Lent invites us to draw closer to Jesus in his suffering.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Psalm 22:1-21

Matthew 27:43

Matthew 27:35

Psalm 22:31

Isaiah 53:1-10

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Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Isaiah 58:5

Daniel 9:3

Hebrews 12:1-2

Books mentioned in this podcast:

Violence, Hospitality, and the Cross by Hans Boersma 

The Crucifixion by Fleming Rutledge 

The Day the Revolution Began by N.T. Wright 

N.T. Wright and the Revolutionary Cross by Derek Vreeland

Cross-Shattered Christ by Stanley Hauerwas

The Wood Between the Worlds by Brian Zahnd

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Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Psalm 90:10-12

2 Corinthians 5:6-8

John 14:2-7

Matthew 5:11-12

Luke 23:39-43

John 11:21-27

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14

2 Corinthians 5:1-4

1 Corinthians 15:50-55

Revelation 21:1-5

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Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Psalm 33:4-5

Psalm 97:2

Proverbs 21:15

Deuteronomy 27:19

1 Chronicles 18:14

Isaiah 42:1-3

Matthew 12:15-21

Matthew 23:23

Matthew 5:6

Books mentioned in this podcast:

The Deeply Formed Life by Rich Villodas

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Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Romans 16:16

Luke 24:27

1 Corinthians 10:1-4

Matthew 12:40-41

Isaiah 40:3-11

John 1:1

Books mentioned in this podcast:

Daily Office Lectionary edited by Derek Vreeland

Surprised by Jesus Again by Jason Byassee

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Books mentioned in this podcast:

By the Way: Getting Serious about Following Jesus by Derek Vreeland

Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle

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In this conversation, Ashley Lande shares her profound journey from a life steeped in psychedelics and spiritual searching to a transformative encounter with faith in Jesus Christ. The discussion explores the slow progression towards faith, the allure and pitfalls of psychedelic experiences, the struggle with addiction, and the moments of vulnerability that led to a deeper understanding of grace and redemption. Ashley's story serves as a testament to the power of faith and the possibility of transformation, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own spiritual journeys.

Books mentioned in this podcast:

The Thing That Would Make Everything Okay Forever: Transcendence, Psychedelics, and Jesus Christ by Ashley Lande

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Derek also explores the prophetic significance of Isaiah's words regarding the birth of Jesus and the call for peace and goodwill in our lives. He encourages listeners to embody the spirit of Christmas by being peacemakers in their communities as they enter the new year.

Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Luke 2, KJV

Isaiah 9:1-7, NLT

Matthew 4:13, 17

Psalm 46:10

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Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Matthew 7: 21-23

Books mentioned in this podcast:

Surprised by Jesus Again: Reading the Bible in Communion with the Saints by Jason Byassee

Holiness Here: Searching for God in the Ordinary Events of Everyday Life by Karen Stiller

The Narrow Path: How the Subversive Way of Jesus Satisfies Our Souls by Rich Villodas

A Short Guide to Spiritual Formation: Finding Life in Truth, Goodness, Beauty, and Community by Alex Sosler

The Thing That Would Make Everything Okay Forever: Transcendence, Psychedelics, and Jesus Christ by Ashley Lande

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Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

• Psalm 130: 1-5
• 2 Peter 3: 8-10

Books mentioned in this podcast:

• Waiting Isn’t a Waste: The Surprising Comfort of Trusting God in the Uncertainties of Life, Mark Vroegop

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The conversation delves into the power of Advent as a season of waiting and reflection, exploring how spiritual practices like the daily office lectionary can deepen one’s Bible reading experience. Alex discusses the transcendentals of truth, goodness, beauty, and community, highlighting how these concepts foster a balanced and fulfilling spiritual life. Together, they examine ideas like eudaimonia (human flourishing) and shalom (peace), connecting them to Jesus’ teachings on the good life and the importance of virtue, character, and habit formation in growing towards Christlikeness. This episode encourages listeners to cultivate a holistic approach to faith, rooted in grace and the transformative power of community.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Daily Office Lectionary by Derek Vreeland

A Short Guide to Spiritual Formation: Finding Life in Truth, Goodness, Beauty, and Community by Alex Sosler

Learning to Love: Christian Higher Education as Pilgrimage by Alex Sosler

The Artistic Vision: Cultivating a Sacramental Imagination for Artistic Practice by Alex Sosler

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Scriptures mentioned in this episode:

Psalm 136: 1-9

Luke 17: 11-19

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Books mentioned in this podcast:

Thoughts in Solitude by Thomas Merton

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