Life and Books and Everything

Justin Taylor, Christian writer and editor engaged in book and theological conversations. Collin Hansen, editor and commentator known for leadership at The Gospel Coalition. They trade banter about George Washington’s character and role in American origins. They dive into Winter Olympics passions, figure skating drama, and patriotic pride. They close with sharp takes on the Young, Restless, and Reformed movement and current reading lists.

A warm invitation to a 2026 pastoral gathering focused on serving and encouraging church leaders. Discussion of a fraternity-like atmosphere with shared singing and fellowship. Information about intended attendees, logistics near Charlotte, and hopes for spiritual refreshment and renewed zeal for ministry.

Jan Van Vliet, Dordt University professor and author of a 2024 book on Adam Smith, joins to explore Smith’s life and works. They trace Smith’s moral philosophy and Wealth of Nations. They debate whether his moral sentiments and market insights conflict. They unpack sympathy, the impartial spectator, the invisible hand, specialization, and Smith’s religious outlook.

Matthew Spalding, Hillsdale professor and author of The Making of the American Mind, explores how the Declaration of Independence draws on theological language and Christian intellectual traditions. He discusses providence, natural law, the Declaration’s crafting and civic role, Protestant textual habits, and whether America was founded as a Christian-influenced but nonsectarian polity.

In this timely interview, Kevin talks to Neil Shenvi about his new book (co-authored with Pat Sawyer), entitled “Post Woke: Asserting a Biblical Vision of Race, Gender, and Sexuality” (Harvest). What does it mean to be woke, and is wokeness still a thing Christians need to be concerned about? Where did the idea of wokeness come from? How can we spot woke ideas and respond to them with biblical fidelity? Can wokeness exist on the right as well as the left? Join Kevin and Neil as they explore why wokeness is as relevant as ever and how Christians, in the most contested issues of our day, can be shaped by the Bible instead of the world.

If you are looking for a podcast where three friends talk about whatever they want to talk about and ramble on about sports, books, and grievances, then this is the episode for you! It’s also an opportunity to hear the three amigos laugh, tell funny stories, and end with a reflection on the many simple gifts and graces in their lives.

In a rare cultural anomaly that may never be repeated in our lifetimes, the current SBC President and current PCA Moderator live in the same neighborhood just a few streets apart. What a time to be alive, people! In this hometown episode, Kevin talks with Clint Pressley—native Charlottean, senior pastor at Hickory Grove Baptist, and current president of the Southern Baptist Convention—about life and ministry in the Queen City and how things work in the SBC. Stick around to the end and find out which one of these Charlotte pastors lifts weights with other people and which one prefers to run around away from people.

In this enlightening discussion, guests Chad Van Dixhoorn, a church historian and Reformed theologian, Blair Smith, a professor known for his work on Augustine, and Mark McDowell, a systematic theology professor, delve into the intricate differences between Protestants and Catholics. They tackle the nuances of the Catholic Mass, the implications of historical doctrines, and how cultural alliances with Catholics can coexist with doctrinal disagreements. Additionally, the panel touches on infant baptism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and offers practical advice for engaging with Catholic friends.

If you haven’t seen the viral clip, go see it right now. In this episode, Kevin talks to Alistair about the preaching clip he didn’t intend to give, he never put online himself, and he never expected to be one of the most well known moments of his ministry. The content from that clip has been combined with two other Jesus encounters in the Gospels and turned into a short book. Listen to Kevin and Alistair talk about that book as well as the Ryder Cup, “retirement,” and reflections on growing older (though Alistair doesn’t look it).

R. Scott Clark, a Professor at Westminster Seminary California and author of a detailed commentary on the Heidelberg Catechism, dives deep into the history and significance of this Reformation gem. He discusses the motives behind its creation in 1563 and the controversies with Lutheran and Catholic doctrines. Clark shares insights on key sections that emphasize comfort in faith, the nature of assurance, and crucial Christological debates. He advocates for the catechism's use in pastoral ministry, highlighting its blend of doctrine and practical care.