Ask Ligonier

Why do many Christians associate Calvinism with the acronym TULIP? Today, W. Robert Godfrey explains where this familiar term came from and how it seeks to summarize Reformed teaching. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/where-did-tulip-come-from/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Michael Reeves, a theologian and president of Union School of Theology, dives into the struggles of recurring sin and shame. He explains how these challenges invite the accusatory whispers of Satan, urging believers to remember God's abundant grace over their failures. Reeves emphasizes applying the gospel personally, highlighting that Christ's sacrifice cleanses guilt and breaks the power of sin. By fostering a superior love for God, he argues, believers can overcome their attachments to sin and be drawn back by grace.

Why does Scripture call those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake "blessed"? Today, Derek Thomas reflects on the cost and privilege of following Christ in a hostile world. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/what-does-it-mean-to-be-persecuted-for-righteousness-sake/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

How can church members actively pursue unity? Today, Joel Kim reflects on the Apostle Paul's tender image of a nursing mother to illustrate how care and hospitality cultivate lasting fellowship. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/how-can-church-members-help-create-greater-unity-in-the-life-of-a-congregation/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

How can Christians know if their good works are Spirit-led or driven by the flesh? Today, Sinclair Ferguson explains how our motives and focus reveal the true source of our obedience. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/how-do-i-know-if-good-works-are-of-my-flesh-or-of-the-holy-spirit/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

Michael Reeves, President of Union School of Theology, shares profound insights on dealing with depression from a Christian perspective. He emphasizes that suffering doesn't diminish one's faith, using examples from Martin Luther and Charles Spurgeon. He explores the interplay between physical, spiritual, and mental causes of depression, and discusses when medication may be necessary. Reeves also highlights the importance of trusting God during dark times, encouraging listeners to walk by faith and recognize God's fatherly care in their struggles.

What does it mean to be baptized with the Holy Spirit and with fire? Today, W. Robert Godfrey helps us understand this striking phrase from John the Baptist and what it reveals about Christ's role in judgment and salvation. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/what-did-john-the-baptist-mean-when-he-said-jesus-would-baptize-with-fire/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

What is the value of reading Scripture in the order its events occurred? Today, Stephen Nichols considers how this approach to Bible study can shape our understanding of God's redemptive work throughout history. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/what-are-the-benefits-of-reading-the-bible-chronologically/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

In this engaging discussion, Pastor Ken Jones from Glendale Missionary Baptist Church shares insights on finding joy in Bible reading. He highlights how obligation can overshadow the delight of Scripture, encouraging listeners to reconnect with the Bible as God's word through prayer. Jones emphasizes that even challenging passages reveal God's unwavering love and covenant commitment. With practical tips, he inspires a fresh perspective on engaging with the Scriptures, making it a cherished part of daily life.

Why does God enter into covenant with us, even though He knows how we will respond? Today, Michael Reeves reflects on what the Bible's answer reveals about God's character and His relationship with His people. Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/ask-ligonier/why-does-god-make-a-covenant-with-us-if-he-already-knows-how-well-respond/ Study Reformed theology with a free resource bundle from Ligonier Ministries: https://grow.ligonier.org/ Submit a biblical or theological question of your own by calling 1-800-607-9386 or by emailing an audio recording of your question to askligoniervm@ligonier.org. You can also receive real-time answers through our online chat service at https://ask.ligonier.org/. A donor-supported outreach of Ligonier Ministries. Donate: https://donate.ligonier.org/ Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts