The Reformed Block Network
The Reformed Block is an urban podcasting community and collective of brothers united under a common purpose: to see the kingdom of Christ influence every aspect of life for the good of man and the glory of God.
El Boletín Reformado: “El Boletín Reformado busca aportar a la carencia de material y recursos de teología reformada en español por medio de compartir enlaces a vídeos, artículos, noticias, enseñanzas y otras ponencias por parte de predicadores o autores reformados para la gloria de Dios y la edificación de los santos que comparten la fe reformada en su propio idioma, para vivir todos los aspectos de la vida (cosmovisión) en conformidad con la fe reformada, la cual es otra forma de decir la fe cristiana.”
For Christ Y Cultura: “A fun-yet-chill living room-like convo between 3 Latinos and the world. Every episode we flesh out Christianity, Cultura, and entertainment from a Latino perspective. With a grand finale that aims to leave the listener with a chewable connection between theology and day-to-day living. We call it theology for your back pocket! Come sit y tómate un cafecito with Sway, Jonathan & Caro and join the conversation!”
Kingdom Polemics: “Kingdoms Polemics seeks to recapture the comprehensive and optimistic Kingdom theology of the Westminister standards with clarity, conviction, and confrontation. Kingdom Polemics is seeking to advance a spirituality that is gospel, worship, and church-entric and yet creational, institutional, civil and familial connected.”
The Proverbial Life: “Welcome to The Proverbial Life. A Podcast that encourages Christians to look to Christ, live wisely, and leave a legacy behind for generations to follow.”
Saints Edified: “Saints Edified is an independent online ministry founded by Arturo Hurtado. It’s purpose is to it build up Christians by providing resources for spiritual growth, encouragement and to reach the non-believing world.”
Stay tuned for upcoming podcast and content creators on the Reformed Block network! You can keep up my subscribing and following our social media platforms below:
- MM- “Man up- Don’t be ignorant.” (12-20-24)by Edwin Ramirez on December 20, 2024 at 11:00 am
“Man up- Don’t be ignorant.” (12-20-24) — Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-proverbial-life/support
- MM- “Man up- Don’t be a coward.” (12-19-24)by Edwin Ramirez on December 19, 2024 at 11:00 am
We need men who are firm in God’s word and strong in the Lord. — Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-proverbial-life/support
- MM-How to deal with accusations (12-18-24)by Edwin Ramirez on December 18, 2024 at 11:00 am
How do you deal with accusations? Listen to it? Reject/Receive it. — Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-proverbial-life/support
- Morning Meditation-Feminism (12-17-24)by Edwin Ramirez on December 17, 2024 at 11:00 am
You will never be biblical as long as you worship women. — Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-proverbial-life/support
- Josiah and Hezekiah as Examples for Magistratesby Pastor Aldo Leon on December 16, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this rebroadcast of a Sunday catechism service, Aldo Leon delves into the biblical roles of godly magistrates as demonstrated by Josiah and Hezekiah. Drawing from the Westminster Confession of Faith, Aldo unpacks the duties of civil leaders to uphold God’s law, oppose idolatry, and foster righteousness within their realms. This episode challenges modern secular views on governance and highlights the biblical precedent for civil rulers to act in obedience to God’s commands, serving as protectors of true worship and societal order.Key Discussion Points:Josiah and Hezekiah as Models: Aldo examines how these Old Testament kings actively removed idolatry and upheld God’s law, setting a standard for godly magistrates. Civil Authority and God’s Law: Using the Westminster Confession (Chapter 23), the discussion emphasizes the duty of magistrates to govern in alignment with God’s Word, including calling out and removing false worship. Lessons from History: Examples are drawn from church history, such as the role of civil leaders in convening councils like Nicaea and Westminster, demonstrating the importance of cooperative leadership in spiritual and civil matters. Judgment and Consequences: Aldo discusses the connection between societal idolatry and divine judgment, urging Christians to recognize the call to reformation in all spheres of life—home, church, and government. Addressing Objections: The episode tackles common objections to applying Old Testament principles to modern governance, showing their relevance through a biblical and theological lens.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) to help continue these vital discussions. Engage with us by leaving your comments and thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). Your support fuels our mission to proclaim God’s sovereignty and call for reformation in every area of life!
- Morning Meditation: Do you want to be biblical? (12-16-24)by Edwin Ramirez on December 16, 2024 at 11:00 am
Obedience is not easy, but do you want to be biblical? — Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-proverbial-life/support
- Can Women Be Pastors According to the Bible?by Edwin Ramirez on December 13, 2024 at 12:06 pm
Can Women Be Pastors According to the Bible? https://open.substack.com/pub/theprov… Ways to Support the Ministry Website- Theproverbiallife.com Merch On TeeSpring – https://teespring.com/stores/the-prov… Patreon- / proverbiallife PayPal- paypal.me/teameramirez (Teameramirez@gmail.com) CashApp- $teameramirez Venmo- Edwin-Ramirez-75 Podcast On Anchor- http://anchor.fm/the-proverbial-life Instagram- / fanintoflamee Twitter- https://twitter.com/home YouTube- / @theproverbiallife My Music- / the-proverbial-life My wife’s book on Poetry (Sold on Amazon): Framed for His Portrait (Poetry Book) https://www.amazon.com/Framed-His-Por… — Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-proverbial-life/support
- Worshiptainmentby Pastor Aldo Leon on December 12, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, host Pastor Aldo Leon welcomes Pastor Matthew Everhard to delve into the transformative power of worship. Together, they explore the relationship between worship practices, church liturgy, and the spiritual formation of believers. Drawing from scripture, historical church practices, and their personal journeys, this discussion challenges the contemporary trend of “worshiptainment” and invites a return to God-centered worship rooted in the Psalms.Guest: Matthew Everhard, Sr. Pastor, Gospel Fellowship Presbyterian Church, Valencia PA https://www.gospelfellowshippca.org/staffHighlights:Understanding Worshiptainment: Pastor Everhard introduces his term “worshiptainment” to describe the blending of worship with entertainment, critiquing its impact on the church. The Journey to Psalm Singing: Both pastors share how they embraced singing the Psalms, discussing its theological depth and its ability to teach objective, God-glorifying worship. Liturgy’s Role in Formation: The conversation highlights how worship practices shape belief and behavior, not only reflecting theology but actively forming it. The Regulative Principle of Worship: A discussion on aligning worship practices with God’s commands, emphasizing scripture’s central role in worship. Challenges of Contemporary Worship Styles: The dangers of prioritizing personal preferences or entertainment over biblical fidelity in worship. Encouraging Psalm Singing: Insights into how integrating Psalms into services enriches congregational life and spiritual growth.Support Kingdom Polemics! You can make a difference by visiting Buy Me A Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) to contribute to the podcast’s mission of creating biblically rooted content. Don’t forget to join the conversation by leaving your comments and feedback on Kingdom Polemics’ YouTube page (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics).
- Extra Holy Days Are Not Holyby Pastor Aldo Leon on December 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon is joined by Pastor Rom Prakashpalan to discuss the biblical and theological implications of extra-biblical holy days. The conversation challenges the widespread practice of adding man-made holy days like Christmas and Easter to the Christian calendar, examining how these traditions often undermine God’s prescribed means of worship. Through a rich exploration of Scripture, Reformed confessions, and historical insights, this episode calls listeners back to a worship centered solely on God’s Word and Christ’s finished work.Our guest: Reverend Rom Prakashpalan, Zion Presbyterian Church (FCC), Fredericksburg, VA (https://www.zion-presbyterian.com/)Key Discussion Points:God’s Exclusive Authority Over Holy Days: The episode begins by establishing that only God has the authority to ordain holy days, as demonstrated in Scripture from Genesis to the New Testament. Galatians and Colossians on Worship: Aldo and Rom explore how Paul’s letters condemn both the observance of outdated ceremonial holy days and the creation of new ones. Distinction Between Holy Days and Worship Days: A clear differentiation is made between providential days of worship (e.g., Thanksgiving or fasting) and holy days instituted by God. The Nature of Church Power: The discussion highlights the ministerial and declarative role of the church, contrasting it with the legislative overreach seen in other traditions. The Decline of Reformed Adherence: A historical overview is provided, showing how American Presbyterians once rejected man-made holy days but gradually embraced them under cultural and external pressures. Lawlessness and Idolatry: The episode concludes by addressing the lawless and idolatrous outcomes of celebrating extra holy days, including their roots in Roman Catholic traditions like the mass.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) to help sustain this important work; we are a non-profit charitable organization. Join the discussion and share your thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics), where we delve deeper into faith, worship, and theological clarity. Your support and engagement are essential as we continue to promote Christ-centered worship and Reformed principles!
- We need healing form Jesusby Edwin Ramirez on December 4, 2024 at 11:48 pm
Ways to Support the Ministry Website- Theproverbiallife.com Merch On TeeSpring – https://teespring.com/stores/the-prov… Patreon- / proverbiallife PayPal- paypal.me/teameramirez (Teameramirez@gmail.com) CashApp- $teameramirez Venmo- Edwin-Ramirez-75 Podcast On Anchor- http://anchor.fm/the-proverbial-life Instagram- / fanintoflamee Twitter- https://twitter.com/home YouTube- / @theproverbiallife My Music- / the-proverbial-life My wife’s book on Poetry (Sold on Amazon): Framed for His Portrait (Poetry Book) https://www.amazon.com/Framed-His-Por… — Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-proverbial-life/support
- Impressions of the FCC (Free Church of Scotland (Continuing))by Pastor Aldo Leon on November 25, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this reflective episode, Aldo Leon discusses his recent experiences with the Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) (FCC) alongside pastors Eduardo Martorano and Trace Turner. They discuss the unique distinctives of the FCC, including its commitment to confessional theology, reverent worship, and experiential preaching. The episode explores the spiritual depth, theological rigor, and pastoral warmth demonstrated by FCC leaders, offering a thoughtful critique and praise of their practices. Whether you’re curious about the FCC or considering what it means to hold to Reformed convictions, this conversation provides a fascinating glimpse into this small but impactful denomination.Guests:Pastor Eduardo Martorano, Iglesia La Vid, Loredo, TX (https://lavidlaredo.org/)Pastor Trace Turner, Houston Reformed Presbyterian Church (https://rphouston.org/)Key Discussion Points:Gravitas and Levity in Worship: The FCC exemplifies a balance between deep reverence for God and a warm, approachable fellowship. Experiential Preaching: FCC places a unique emphasis on doctrinally rich, soul-stirring preaching as the centerpiece of worship. Uniformity and Accessibility: The FCC’s consistent worship practices, such as exclusive psalmody and the use of the King James Bible, create a sense of unity and simplicity. Rigorous Ministerial Standards: Aldo and guests admire the FCC’s thorough examinations and high expectations for ordination, highlighting their commitment to doctrinal integrity and pastoral care. Confessional Commitment: The FCC’s steadfast adherence to historic Reformed theology and its cautious yet welcoming ecumenism stands as a model for modern churches navigating doctrinal faithfulness. Support Kingdom Polemics and help sustain these important discussions by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics). Share your thoughts and join the conversation on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). Your engagement makes a difference in promoting biblical worship and theology!
- Christ Against Kinismby Pastor Aldo Leon on November 15, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon tackles the controversial topic of kinism, critically examining its incompatibility with biblical Christianity. Kinism, a movement that prioritizes ethnic and national ties over spiritual unity in Christ, is dissected and refuted using Scripture and Reformed theology. Aldo challenges the kinist ideology that subjugates supernatural grace to natural affinities, urging listeners to consider the supremacy of their identity in Christ over all natural ties. Key Discussion Points:Biblical Refutation of Kinism: Aldo explains how kinism prioritizes natural affinities over spiritual unity, directly contradicting the Gospel’s call to prioritize grace over nature. Christ’s Lordship Over Natural Affinities: Using examples from Scripture, Aldo highlights how Christ demands allegiance above even the closest kinship ties, showing how grace redefines relationships. The Role of the Church and Nations: Aldo examines the biblical vision for nations and the church, arguing against ethnocentrism and for a Christ-centered worldview in cultural and societal engagement. Misuse of Christian Nationalism: The episode explores how kinists distort Christian nationalism, intertwining it with ethnocentrism, and contrasts this with a truly biblical and Reformed understanding. Historical Reformed Perspectives: Drawing on figures like John Calvin, Aldo demonstrates how the Reformed tradition has always prioritized godliness and covenantal faith over ethnic or national identity. Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) to help us produce more episodes like this. Share your thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics), where you can join the conversation on faith, culture, and theology. Your support and engagement are vital in furthering these important discussions!
- Two Kingdoms Under One Kingby Pastor Aldo Leon on November 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm
This episode of Kingdom Polemics is a rebroadcast of a catechism service at Pinelands Presbyterian Church in Cutler Bay, Florida, Pastor Leon delves into the profound topic of Christ’s kingship and its implications for both the church and civil government. Join us as we explore the theological and practical aspects of living under the rule of one King in two distinct realms.Summary of Highlights/Discussion Points: Christ’s Kingship: Pastor Leon explains how Christ’s rule extends over both the church and the world, providing a vision for biblical governance in both realms.Westminster Standards: A discussion on the historical context and adaptation of the Westminster Standards by American Presbyterians in 1788, and the implications of these changes.Distinction Between Church and State: The episode highlights the differences in authority and governance between the church and civil government, emphasizing the direct headship of Christ over the church.Role of Civil Magistrates: An exploration of the civil magistrate’s role in restraining and overcoming enemies, supporting the church, and maintaining order in society.Theological Points: Pastor Leon touches on various theological points, including the importance of maintaining the purity of the church’s doctrine and worship, and the relationship between church and state.If you enjoyed this episode, consider supporting Kingdom Polemics through our Buy Me A Coffee (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) page. Your support helps keep the podcast running and allows us to continue bringing you insightful content. Don’t forget to leave your comments and feedback on our YouTube (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics) page.
- The Christian Princeby Pastor Aldo Leon on November 6, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon shares a recording of a Catechism Service at Pinelands Presbyterian Church, in Cutler Bay, FL. Pastor Aldo delves into the biblical and Reformed understanding of the civil magistrate, exploring the magistrate’s role as God’s appointed servant responsible for promoting righteousness, justice, and true worship. Drawing from the Westminster Larger Catechism and other Reformed sources, Aldo discusses how government authority should be exercised according to God’s law and addresses the responsibilities of a Christian magistrate in supporting the church, preserving societal morality, and executing justice. Aldo challenges modern ideas that seek to limit or exclude the influence of biblical principles from public life, arguing that a Christian magistrate is essential for a truly just and godly society.Key Discussion Points:Biblical Basis for Civil Authority: Aldo opens with the Westminster Catechism’s view on the civil magistrate, emphasizing that magistrates are accountable to God for upholding both societal order and spiritual welfare.Sabbath Observance and Civil Leadership: He explains the historical expectation that rulers would support Sabbath observance and why modern governments should similarly protect religious practices.The Christian’s Role in Politics: Aldo addresses the argument that Christians should avoid political office due to the presence of sin in government, refuting this view by emphasizing that Christians are called to engage and reform civic institutions.Justice and Capital Punishment: The episode explores the biblical mandate for justice, including capital punishment, and the importance of impartiality in law enforcement and governance.Limits of Authority and Just Warfare: Aldo concludes with a discussion on just war theory, emphasizing that Christian-led governments should engage in war only under righteous causes, such as protecting the nation from genuine threats to religious or moral integrity.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) and help fund more episodes like this. Share your thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics) as we continue exploring the intersection of faith, governance, and societal responsibility. Your support and feedback are crucial as we aim to reclaim a biblical view of civil authority!
- Wolfe, Gordon and VanDrunen, Pt 2by Pastor Aldo Leon on November 1, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode, Kingdom Polemics host Aldo Leon provides a critical analysis of a recent conversation on Abounding Grace between Chris Gordon and David VanDrunen, where they critique Christian nationalism and its relation to Reformed theology (https://youtu.be/uwJUB1CKOdM). Aldo examines their points about cultural engagement, the role of the civil magistrate, and what it means to apply biblical principles in the public square. Through this commentary, he clarifies misunderstandings about Christian nationalism, defends the historic Reformed perspective on law and government, and challenges the notion that Christians should avoid influencing societal structures with biblical principles.Key Discussion Points:Misrepresentations of Christian Nationalism: Aldo addresses how Gordon and VanDrunen often misrepresent Christian nationalism, clarifying its roots in Reformed theology and its aim to honor Christ in all societal aspects.The Role of the Civil Magistrate: He critiques their view that government should not actively uphold the first table of the law, arguing instead for a historical, confessional perspective on the magistrate’s role in supporting true religion.Christ’s Lordship over Nations: Aldo challenges the idea that New Testament teachings negate the Old Testament’s approach to national submission to God, arguing that Christ’s lordship extends over all earthly authorities.Biblical and Natural Law: He contrasts VanDrunen’s reliance on natural law with a Reformed view that acknowledges biblical law as essential for guiding all areas of life, including governance and society.Defending Covenant Theology in Public Life: Aldo highlights how Reformed covenantal thought supports Christian engagement in cultural and political spheres without compromising the distinct role of the church.Support Kingdom Polemics and join these crucial discussions by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. You can also leave your thoughts and comments on our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics to engage further in this ongoing dialogue on faith, culture, and governance.
- Reformed Christian Nationalismby Pastor Aldo Leon on October 30, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this insightful rebroadcast of City of God, Aldo Leon joins Pastor Rob Pacienza to clarify misconceptions about Christian nationalism and discuss what a biblically faithful, Reformed approach to Christian nationalism entails. They outline how the lordship of Christ should influence every aspect of life, including the public and political spheres. The episode aims to distinguish historical, confessional Christian nationalism from more extreme or distorted interpretations, providing clarity on what it means to engage in the public square as Christians committed to God’s truth.Key Discussion Points:Christ’s Kingship Over Nations: The discussion emphasizes that Christ’s reign is not confined to private devotion but extends to all spheres of life, including government.Clarifying Christian Nationalism: Aldo and Rob clarify that Reformed Christian nationalism is historically confessional, adhering to clear distinctions between church and state while affirming Christ’s authority over both.Rejecting Misleading Labels: The episode challenges the use of “Christian nationalism” as a pejorative term to silence biblical political engagement.Addressing Public Issues Biblically: They discuss how the Reformed tradition equips Christians to address cultural and political issues faithfully without compromising the gospel.Reformed Confessions as Guides: Aldo and Rob advocate for grounding political engagement in the wisdom of the Reformed confessions, avoiding nationalistic distortions while upholding the church’s role in societal transformation.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics to keep these meaningful discussions going. Be sure to leave your thoughts on our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics, where you can engage further on these vital topics. Thank you for helping us proclaim Christ’s lordship across every realm!
- Wolfe, Gordon, and VanDrunenby Pastor Aldo Leon on October 22, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Pastor Aldo Leon dives deep into a theological discussion addressing various views on Christian nationalism, common grace, and the role of civil government through a critical lens. Interacting with perspectives from David VanDrunen and Chris Gordon, Aldo engages with the pressing questions about how Christianity should influence culture, politics, and societal structures today. As always, Pastor Aldo brings his unique Reformed and polemical perspective, challenging listeners to think critically about modern evangelical responses to societal challenges.Summary of Highlights/Discussion Points:Engagement with David VanDrunen’s Theology: Pastor Aldo critiques VanDrunen’s R2K (Two-Kingdom) theology, which emphasizes a separation between the sacred and secular realms, arguing that it over-corrects against Christian engagement in societal matters.Christian Nationalism Debate: The episode addresses the tension between Christian nationalism, particularly the views presented by Stephen Wolfe, and the R2K theology of minimizing Christian influence in public affairs.Common Grace vs. Saving Grace: Aldo explores how common grace functions in society and how it should not replace the necessity of Christian principles guiding nations and governance.Critique of Modern Evangelical Piety: Aldo challenges the notion that Christians should only focus on spiritual matters and personal piety, without engaging in societal reform or upholding Christian values in the public square.Christ’s Lordship Over All Realms: Drawing from Scripture, Aldo emphasizes that Jesus Christ is Lord over all nations, not just the church, and that Christians should aspire to see Christ’s rule acknowledged in every sphere of life, including government.Reference Materials:Discussion with David VanDrunen on Christian Nationalism, Stephen Wolfe & Doug Wilson https://youtu.be/uwJUB1CKOdM The Noahic Covenant as a Religious Covenant of Grace Not a Common Covenant of Neutrality https://reformationmiami.org/images/docs/The-Noahic-Covenant-Article.pdfIf you’re passionate about Kingdom-centered theology and want to support Kingdom Polemics, consider donating through our Buy Me A Coffee page: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics. Your support helps us continue producing thoughtful and challenging content. Also, don’t forget to leave your thoughts and join the conversation by commenting on our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics.
- Objections About the Received Textby Pastor Aldo Leon on October 14, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon teams up with Pastor Christian Khanda from Holy Trinity Presbyterian Church (https://www.holytrinityopc.org/) to address objections surrounding the Received Text (Textus Receptus), which underpins traditional Bible translations like the King James Version. The conversation tackles common criticisms about this text, including comparisons to modern translations like the English Standard Version (ESV) and their reliance on alternative manuscript families such as the Alexandrian texts. They dive into the theological implications of textual transmission, the authority of Scripture, and the importance of preserving the inspired words of God for the church today.Key Discussion Points:Textual Transmission and Preservation: The discussion opens with an explanation of the historical and theological basis for the Received Text, exploring how God has preserved His word through this textual tradition.King James Onlyism vs. Reformation Text: Aldo and Pastor Khanda clarify the distinction between advocating for translations based on the Received Text and the extreme position of King James Onlyism.Differences Between Modern and Reformation Texts: They explain how modern translations like the ESV sometimes rely on the Septuagint and other alternative texts, which at times contradict the Masoretic Hebrew text.The Role of the Civil Magistrate: Aldo brings in theological reflections on how textual differences affect broader theological concepts, such as the nature of Christ’s kingship and the role of civil government.Implications of Textual Changes: Pastor Khanda shares insights into how modern critical textual approaches undermine certain key doctrines, including the Trinity, by excluding texts like 1 John 5:7 from modern translations.Support Kingdom Polemics and help continue these vital conversations on faith and Scripture by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics). Join the discussion by leaving your comments on our YouTube page (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). Your support and feedback are critical as we seek to preserve and proclaim God’s word!
- Preached Acapella and the next Week We Became Acapellaby Pastor Aldo Leon on October 9, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this significant episode of Kingdom Polemics, Pastor Aldo Leon presents a thought-provoking sermon preached at Pinelands Presbyterian Church, discussing the biblical and theological rationale for acapella worship in the New Testament church. Aldo addresses the historical use of musical instruments in Old Testament worship and how their role was tied to the temple and Levitical sacrifices. With Christ’s fulfillment of these ceremonial practices, he argues for the superiority of simplicity in New Testament worship. This episode serves as a call for reformation in worship, urging churches to return to singing Psalms and spiritual songs without the addition of instruments, in alignment with New Testament principles.Key Discussion Points:Historical Role of Instruments: Aldo explains how instruments were introduced in Old Testament temple worship in connection with sacrifices and the Levitical priesthood. He demonstrates that instruments were never used outside the temple for ordinary synagogue worship.Fulfillment in Christ: The sermon explores how Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice eliminates the need for instrumental accompaniment in worship, as the Old Testament ceremonies were types and shadows fulfilled in Christ.Simplicity of New Testament Worship: Aldo makes a compelling case for the acapella singing of Psalms in Christian worship, showing how this practice emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ’s work and avoids the ceremonial regressions often seen in modern churches.Reformed Tradition: Drawing from the views of Reformers like Calvin and the Westminster Divines, Aldo explains that acapella worship was the norm for centuries in the Reformed church and critiques the modern reintroduction of instruments.Call to Reformation in Worship: The episode closes with an appeal for a return to the simplicity of worship commanded in the New Testament, focusing on the spiritual richness of singing without instrumental accompaniment.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) to help fund more episodes like this. Be sure to leave your thoughts and feedback on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). We deeply appreciate your engagement as we continue to explore and challenge modern practices in light of historic Reformed theology!
- Kamala, Trump or Covenanting?by Pastor Aldo Leon on October 7, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this bold episode of Kingdom Polemics, Aldo Leon delves into the complex relationship between Christianity and political engagement, focusing on the question of whether Christians should support candidates like Kamala Harris or Donald Trump. Aldo argues that while some Christians believe supporting a lesser evil is a pragmatic solution, this approach lacks biblical grounding. He advocates for a Christ-centered view of politics, where the civil magistrate is held accountable to the lordship of Christ and must rule in accordance with God’s laws. Aldo challenges listeners to rethink the ways they exercise their political power, calling for a return to covenantal faithfulness rather than compromising with worldly systems.Key Discussion Points:Christ’s Lordship over Nations: Aldo emphasizes that Christ is the mediatorial king over all nations, including the United States, and that civil leaders are accountable to His rule.Critique of Pragmatic Voting: The episode tackles the idea of voting for the lesser of two evils, arguing that Christians should prioritize godly leadership, even if it seems politically disadvantageous.The Role of the Civil Magistrate: Aldo explains that the civil magistrate’s primary duty is to uphold both tables of God’s law, enforcing righteousness in the public sphere.Rejection of Wicked Rulers: Drawing from biblical examples, Aldo argues that Christians are called to reject wicked rulers, even if they are elected by popular consensus, and should not compromise by supporting ungodly candidates.Covenantal Faithfulness: A central theme is the need for nations to formally acknowledge Christ’s authority, aligning their political systems with the principles of God’s kingdom.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) to help continue producing content like this. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). We value your input and appreciate your support in spreading the message of covenantal faithfulness!
- S2 E10: Romanos 15:7-13by El Boletín Reformado on September 30, 2024 at 3:21 pm
Recientemente tuve el privilegio de iniciar un estudio del capítulo quince de Romanos (versículos 7-13) con los hermanos de la Iglesia Reformada Valle de Gracia en Shafter, California (ValleDeGracia.org). Asegúrense de visitar su sitio web que está lleno de traducciones de artículos teológicos de calidad, y también su canal de YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3k38aSrRGnR6FYAx0mSJww) y página de Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076227903468)
- Mortification of the Establishment Principleby Pastor Aldo Leon on September 26, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, host Aldo Leon offers a spirited response to a recent discussion from The Mortification of Spin podcast, where Todd Pruitt and Carl Trueman criticized proponents of the establishment principle and Christian nationalism. Aldo defends the historic Reformed view of the civil magistrate, arguing that Christians who hold to national covenanting and the establishment principle are being unfairly targeted as problematic within their denominations. He challenges the accusations that these positions are novel or dangerous, drawing on historical Reformed theology to show their validity.Referenced YouTube Video:”Behaving as Christians in an Election Year” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qNq6LTxYJU) Speakers: Carl Trueman, Todd PruittKey Discussion Points:Critique of Todd Pruitt and Carl Trueman: Aldo critiques Pruitt and Trueman’s portrayal of Christian nationalists and their suggestion that these views should be excluded from ordination in Reformed denominations.Historical Reformed Theology: Aldo presents a defense of the establishment principle and national covenanting, arguing that they are deeply rooted in historic Reformed confessions and not a new or fringe development.Anger in the Church: Addressing accusations that proponents of Christian nationalism are “angry,” Aldo explores the place of righteous anger in confronting wickedness in society and the church.Role of the Civil Magistrate: A key theme of the episode is the role of the civil magistrate in enforcing both tables of the law and how this has been misunderstood or downplayed in modern Reformed circles.Call for Unity and Healthy Debate: Aldo appeals to his Reformed brothers to engage in healthy debate over these important issues rather than seeking to exclude or vilify those with differing views.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) and help fund more content like this. Join the conversation by leaving your thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). Your engagement is invaluable in furthering these important theological discussions!
- Man-Made Hymns and Our Eschatology, Masculinity, and View of Scriptureby Pastor Aldo Leon on September 21, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this powerful sermon, Aldo Leon explores how the church’s music—specifically, the use of Psalms versus man-made hymns—impacts our theology, eschatology, and the way we view Christian masculinity. He emphasizes the need to sing God’s inspired songs, as they provide a more robust spiritual foundation, promoting holiness, strong doctrinal convictions, and a biblical view of life. By contrasting the rich, specific nature of the Psalms with the vagueness and theological compromise found in many modern hymns, Aldo challenges the church to reconsider its approach to worship and music.Key Discussion Points:Psalms vs. Hymns: Aldo discusses how replacing Psalms with man-made hymns in worship has weakened the church’s theological integrity and spiritual vibrancy.Holiness and Judgment: The sermon highlights how Psalms address God’s rewarding of righteousness and judgment for sin—key themes often absent in modern hymns.Eschatological Optimism: Aldo argues that the Psalms teach a triumphant and optimistic view of Christ’s kingdom on earth, in contrast to modern hymns, which tend to emphasize retreat from the world.Masculinity and Warfare: The Psalms consistently portray the Christian life as a spiritual battle, promoting a masculine, warrior-like stance against evil—something missing from many modern worship songs.The Necessity of Realism: Aldo stresses the importance of the Psalms’ raw honesty about suffering, hardship, and the struggle for holiness, which fosters a more grounded and real Christian experience.Support Kingdom Polemics and join the conversation by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics). Your contributions help us continue to produce content like this. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). We value your feedback and engagement!
- Kevin DeYoung and TGC on the American Westminster Confession of Faith (WCF)by Pastor Aldo Leon on September 16, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this episode of Kingdom Polemics, host Aldo Leon and guest Pastor Benjamin Glasser engage in a deep analysis of Kevin DeYoung’s recent article on The Gospel Coalition (TGC) regarding the American version of the Westminster Confession of Faith (WCF). They critically examine DeYoung’s claim that the 1788 revisions of the WCF on the civil magistrate signify a sharp departure from the original 1646 confession. Through historical references and theological insights, Aldo and Benjamin unpack how this alleged shift impacts the understanding of the relationship between church and state and challenge the notion that these changes represent a rejection of Reformed orthodoxy in political theology.Articles discussed:”‘Of the Civil Magistrate’: How Presbyterians Shifted on Church-State Relations” (https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/civil-magistrate-presbyterians/)”The Westminster Tradition vs. DeYoung and the Gospel Coalition, Part I (https://americanreformer.org/2024/08/the-westminster-tradition-vs-deyoung-and-the-gospel-coalition-part-i/)Key Discussion Points:DeYoung’s Claim on WCF Revisions: Aldo and Benjamin analyze DeYoung’s argument that the American revisions of WCF 23.3 represent an irreconcilable difference with the 1646 version, especially regarding the role of the civil magistrate.Role of the Civil Magistrate: The conversation explores the concept of the “nursing father” as used in the WCF and how Reformed theologians like Samuel Rutherford and others historically viewed the civil magistrate’s duty in enforcing both tables of the law.Historical and Theological Context: The episode delves into historical precedents, such as the Adopting Act of 1729, and how American Presbyterians navigated changes in political context while maintaining Reformed theological commitments.TGC’s Approach to Church-State Relations: Critique of how The Gospel Coalition tends to separate church and state while simultaneously bringing state ideologies into the church, especially on issues like social justice.Modern Implications for Reformed Christians: The hosts discuss the importance of understanding the continuity between the original and revised WCF and how this impacts the church’s engagement with civil government today.Support Kingdom Polemics by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics) and help fund more content like this. Don’t forget to leave your comments and thoughts on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics), where we continue the conversation on these important topics.
- Man-Made Hymns and Our Unity and Holinessby Pastor Aldo Leon on September 6, 2024 at 2:00 pm
In this compelling episode of Kingdom Polemics, host Aldo Leon dives deep into the spiritual significance of hymns and songs in Christian worship by rebroadcasting a sermon he delivered at Pinelands Presbyterian Church. Through a profound exploration of Scripture, Aldo draws attention to the crucial role that God’s inspired words play in shaping both personal holiness and communal unity. Using Hezekiah’s reform in 2 Chronicles as a foundational text, he explains how the revival of biblical temple worship, with its emphasis on Psalms, mirrors the need for today’s church to return to the pure, God-given form of worship, untouched by human innovation.Key Points:Hezekiah’s Reform and Worship: Aldo emphasizes how King Hezekiah’s revival centered on restoring temple worship by aligning it with God’s commands, using the Levites and inspired songs.Psalms as a Means of Reformation: The episode unpacks the history of how Psalms have been pivotal in spiritual revivals, from the early church to the Reformation, and how their removal stifles the church’s vitality today.Unity through Psalms: By singing God’s words, Christians across ages, cultures, and denominations can be unified in one voice, while man-made hymns often cause division.Holiness and the Severity of Sin: The Psalms do not shy away from the severity of sin and the necessity for holiness. Aldo explains how singing Psalms leads believers to a balanced and biblical view of sin, grace, and God’s justice.Spiritual Nourishment: Drawing an analogy to processed foods, Aldo compares modern worship songs to spiritual junk food that, while seemingly beneficial, leads to spiritual malnourishment over time.Support Kingdom Polemics and be a part of the movement to restore biblical worship by visiting our Buy Me A Coffee page (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kingdompolemics). You can also join the conversation and leave your thoughts on our YouTube page (https://youtube.com/@kingdompolemics). Every contribution helps further the discussion on faith, worship, and the glory of God.