The Reformanda Initiative

What is theological retrieval, and how should evangelicals approach it wisely?In this episode, Dr. Shawn Wright (The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; Clifton Baptist Church) introduces the concept of theological retrieval and explains why it matters today. Drawing from a recent faculty address, he outlines six key cautions—including the need for humility, the danger of overreaction, and the central importance of justification by faith alone and assurance of salvation. We also discuss why some evangelicals are drawn to Roman Catholic views of the church, how Protestants should respond, and why tradition must never stand above Scripture. Dr. Wright closes with a pastoral warning for those considering Rome.Episode resource: https://www.sbts.edu/news/shawn-wright-faculty-address/Support the show

In this episode we discuss the interesting topic of relics and what role they play in Roman Catholicism. What is the theology behind them and how did they develop historically? How do evangelicals respond to the reality of relics? These questions and others are the topic of our discussion.Episode Links:https://vaticanfiles.org/en/2026/03/vf252/https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/calvin-venerating-relics/ Support the show

In this episode, Leo, Clay, and Reid discuss Leonardo’s most recent Vatican File, which looks ahead to 2033 and an important initiative of the ecumenical movement. They also discuss the importance of the 1700th anniversary of Nicea and how that relates to 2033.https://vaticanfiles.org/en/2026/02/vf251-watch-out-2033/ Support the show

In this episode we discuss Leonardo’s upcoming Vatican File that reviews a book which was recently translated into Italian. The book was written by the Cardinal Prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, Victor Manuel Fernández, who is number 3 in the Vatican order of magisterial hierarchy. The book was originally published in 2003 in Spanish, but has just recently been made available in Italian. It concerns the doctrine of grace and gives clear insight into the Roman Catholic concept of grace. We discuss how these Roman Catholic concepts of grace differ from how the Bible articulates the doctrine of grace.Support the show

In this episode we discuss the recent Vatican document published by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith regarding Mary (Mater Popoli Fidelis) and her title of "Co-redemptrix". How should evangelicals think through this and respond to it? We also discuss Leonardo’s October Vatican File that concerns recent remarks Pope Leo made concerning Mary, and that are therefore relevant to this discussion.Support the show

In this episode, we discuss Pope Leo XIV’s first Magisterial document, an Apostolic Exhortation titled "Dilexi te," which focuses on the Roman Catholic Church’s mandate to care for the poor. We highlight the theological concerns the document presents for an evangelical reader. We also briefly discuss our recent trip to Istanbul for a conference that commemorated the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed.Support the show

In this engaging discussion, guest Leonardo de Chirico, an author and theologian, dives into his new book, which guides compassionate gospel conversations with Catholics. He highlights the growing trend of young professionals turning to Catholicism and stresses the importance of evangelizing without assumptions. Leonardo offers insights into varying types of Catholics and provides practical tips for meaningful dialogue. He encourages exploring profound human longings as a bridge to Christ, making faith discussions more relatable and effective.

The Jubilee of Youth in Rome aims to connect nearly 1 million young people globally. There’s a discussion on how the Catholic Church appeals to disillusioned evangelicals through social media. Participants engage in events like confession and Mass at Circus Maximus. Digital outreach strategies to recruit influencers for unity and bridge-building are explored. Cardinal Zuppi's homily highlights inclusivity, while others debate the Church's authority and sacramental role. Evangelicals are urged to prepare better responses and clarify gospel differences.

In this episode, we are joined by Reformanda Initiative Fellow Mark Gilbert (Certainty 4 Eternity) about the new book he co-edited with Leonardo, The Nicene Creed: The Nature of Christian Unity and the Meaning of Gospel Words. We discuss his chapter contribution, which unpacks the clause of the Nicene Creed “We believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic church,” noting how Roman Catholics and Evangelicals share these words, but do not share the theological interpretation of them.Support the show

In this episode we (Leonardo and Reid) discuss problematic aspects of the Roman Catholic understanding of the Trinitarian framework, using Leonardo’s chapter in the newly released book “The Nicene Creed: The Nature of Christian Unity and the Meaning of Gospel Words”, of which Leonardo and Reformanda Initiative Fellow Mark Gilbert are editors. This book (and this conversation) coincides  with the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed. The book can be purchased here: https://matthiasmedia.com/collections/latest/products/the-nicene-creed and is available on Kindle.Support the show