Do all paths lead to God? Is the Bible history or mythology? Are we saved by grace or good works? Featuring panelists from a variety of Christian traditions, this program seeks to answer questions like these by paying close attention to the text of Scripture in its original historical context. If you want to better understand what you believe and why you believe it, subscribe to this podcast!
The Theology of Elon Musk and Transhumanism
What is the theology of Elon Musk? Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller discuss the work and views of serial entrepreneur and richest man in the world, Elon Musk. The hosts try to unravel many of Mr. Musk’s claims and identify what kind of theology is implicit in his views on humanity, consciousness, and the cosmos. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - Law and Gospel Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, Bob Hiller
10/20/2024 • 41 minutes, 52 seconds
Is There a Biblical Critical Theory? w/ Dr. Christopher Watkin
While modern critical theories seek to deconstruct society and reveal its injustices, Dr. Christopher Watkin makes the case that Christianity gives us the best resources to critique culture. Get our free booklet → Law and Gospel by Michael Horton and Bob Hiller https://solamedia.org/offers LISTEN TO THE SHOW iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/white-horse-inn/id356920632 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11CeAFKB1ZF7pAmhGv4fMA JOIN OUR NEWSLETTER https://solamedia.org/subscribe Instagram https://www.instagram.com/solamediaorg/ X/Twitter https://x.com/solamediaorg Facebook https://www.facebook.com/solamediaorg/ WHO WE ARE Sola is home to White Horse Inn, Core Christianity, Modern Reformation, and Theo Global. Our mission is to serve today’s global church by producing resources for reformation grounded in the historic Christian faith. Our vision is to see reformation in hearts, homes, and churches around the world. https://solamedia.org/
10/17/2024 • 50 minutes, 17 seconds
The Theology of Andrew Huberman and Self-Optimization
What is the theology of Andrew Huberman? And why are so many people craving a rule of life from a neuroscientist? Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller discuss the rise of the popular podcaster and tenured professor at the Stanford School of Medicine, Andrew Huberman. While Dr. Huberman is known for speaking about science and self-optimization, what kind of theological views permeate his public work? CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - What Is God's Will For Me Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES MENTIONED: For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, Bob Hiller
10/13/2024 • 35 minutes, 23 seconds
The Theology of Jordan Peterson and Mythological Meaning
What is the theology of Jordan B. Peterson? And why are millions of people, especially young men, flocking to hear Dr. Peterson give three hour lectures on philosophy and life? Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller discuss the meteoric rise of the popular author, psychologist, online educator, and Professor Emeritus at the University of Toronto, and try to discern what kind of theology he espouses in his teachings on the bible and mythology. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - Law and Gospel Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller.
10/6/2024 • 36 minutes, 3 seconds
How Culture Shapes Our Theology
Michael Horton and Adam Smith are joined by special guest Dr. Elizabeth Mburu, Associate Professor of New Testament and Greek at Africa International University, Kenya. In this episode, the hosts discuss the impact of culture on biblical interpretation, the challenges and opportunities of doing theology across cultures, and the global church's need to collaborate for a fuller picture of God’s word. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - What Is God's Will For Me Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES MENTIONED: African Hermeneutics by Elizabeth Mburu For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Elizabeth Mburu, Adam Smith
9/29/2024 • 45 minutes, 14 seconds
The Future of Theology
Hosts Michael Horton and Justin Holcomb travel to Nairobi, Kenya, for Sola Media’s annual Theo Global Symposium and are joined by David Tarus and Joseph Byamukama. The conversation explores the challenges of theological education in Africa and the importance of addressing real-life questions with sound biblical theology, ensuring that theological institutions remain grounded in their mission to serve the local church. David Tarus is the executive director of the Association for Christian Theological Education in Africa (ACTEA) and Joseph Byamukama is the founder and team leader of Veracity Fount in Uganda and is pursuing a PhD in Isaiah's influence on Luke's portrayal of Jesus as Lord in the book of Acts. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - What Is God's Will For Me Become a Sola Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: Association for Christian Theological Education in Africa (ACTEA) Veracity Fount - Researching & Resourcing for Church Renewal: Equipping the Ugandan Church For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Joseph Byamukama, David Tarus
9/22/2024 • 45 minutes, 46 seconds
Theology, Missions, Prayer, and the Ethiopian Church
Hosts Michael Horton and Justin Holcomb travel to Nairobi, Kenya, for Sola Media’s annual Theo Global Symposium and are joined by Dr. Frew Tamrat and Dr. Seble Daniel. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in advancing theological education and deepening the church's understanding of the gospel in the region. They also discuss an early reformation in Ethiopia and how the church has grown in East Africa as well as the importance of integrating theology with missions to reach certain African contexts. Dr. Frew Tamrat is the President of the Evangelical Theological College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Dr. Seble Daniel serves as the director of East Africa Sending Office, SIM, and is a part-time faculty member at the Ethiopian Graduate School of Theology. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - What Is God's Will For Me Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: Christianity in Ethiopia: an interview with Dr. Frew Tamrat at Modern Reformation An Interview with Seblewengel Daniel at Modern Reformation Evangelical Theological College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. SIM, East African Office Ethiopian Graduate School of Theology For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Seble Daniel, Frew Tamrat
9/15/2024 • 54 minutes, 22 seconds
Theology, Worship, and the Local Church: A Conversation in Kenya
Hosts Michael Horton and Adam Smith travel to Nairobi, Kenya, for Sola Media’s annual Theo Global Symposium. While there, they met with local pastors Ken Mbugua and Joshua Lemaiyan from Emmanuel Baptist Church. In this discussion, the hosts and guests explore the unique challenges and commonalities of pastoring in Nairobi and America and delve into the need to integrate theology and worship in order to build solid foundations in the local church. Ken Mbugua is the managing director of Ekklesia Afrika and Joshua Lamaiyan is a lecturer at the Nairobi Institute of Reformed Theology. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - What Is God's Will For Me Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Ekklesia Afrika Nairobi Institute of Reformed Theology For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Adam Smith, Ken Mbugua, Joshua Lemaiyan
9/8/2024 • 43 minutes, 55 seconds
Theology by and for the Global Church
Earlier this summer, Hosts Michael Horton and Justin Holcomb spent two weeks in Egypt and Kenya with Theo Global, another project of Sola Media. This trip was part of Theo Global's annual efforts to gather leading theologians and biblical scholars from across the Middle East and then from East Africa to do theology together—so that the theological roots of the global church can grow strong. The first episode of this series was recorded onsite in Kenya, where Mike and Justin sat down with Adam Smith, a PCA minister and the Chief Operating Officer at Sola Media who has led the Theo Global project since it began in 2015. This is Theology by and for the Global Church. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: BOOKLET - What Is God's Will For Me Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Adam Smith
9/1/2024 • 46 minutes, 54 seconds
Sin and Salvation in Orange County: A Conversation with Robert Schuller
We are ending our historical tour with what may be the most famous episodes of White Horse Inn. Our 1992 conversation with the founding pastor of what was the Crystal Cathedral, Robert Schuller. This conversation is full of astounding and surprising moments. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected].
8/25/2024 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 52 seconds
Is God Useful?
In this episode from 1996, classic hosts, Michael Horton, Kim Riddlebarger, and Rod Rosenbladt discuss the topic of “pragmatism” in the church. The ultimate question of pragmatism is not, “Is this true, good, or beautiful?,” but rather, “Will it work?” On this program, the hosts trace this pragmatic spirit throughout the history of American Christianity. While pragmatism may look different today, we encourage you to use this conversation to help identify what pragmatism is, what it looked like in history, and how you can identify it in its different shapes and forms today. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES MENTIONED: For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected].
8/18/2024 • 39 minutes, 37 seconds
30 Years Later: Evangelicals and Catholics Together
We are going back to May 1, 1994, where the classic White Horse Inn hosts discussed the ecumenical statement, Evenagelicals and Catholics together. In this episode the hosts are joined by Patrick Madrid, a Roman Catholic author and apologist. Now that Evangelicals and Catholics Together is 30 years old, we hope that this conversation serves as a helpful look into the history and reception of this document. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Evangelicals and Catholics Together: A Critical Review by Michael Horton For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
8/11/2024 • 38 minutes, 20 seconds
Spirituality of the 90s
We are going back to February 3rd, 1991 where the classic hosts of White Horse Inn talk about the search for spirituality in the 90s. If you heard our recent conversation with Dr. Horton about his new book on the origins of the “spiritual but not religious,” you will hear clear connections and echoes about the trends were we talking about 33 years ago and the things we see today. So what does it mean to be spiritual? On this episode of White Horse in our classic hosts, Michael Horton, Kim Riddlebarger, and Rod Rosenbladt, discuss true spirituality showing that the Reformation directs us back to scripture where faith and practice are centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Kim Riddlebarger, and Rod Rosenbladt
8/4/2024 • 40 minutes, 38 seconds
A Kingdom for the Persecuted
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” - Matthew 5:10-11. In this episode Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller discuss how the proclamations of Christ renders even the most persecuted as “blessed.” Listen in as the hosts unfold how we share in Christ’s sufferings—and how this suffering is a remarkable blessing for all Christians. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
7/28/2024 • 37 minutes, 38 seconds
A Family for the Peacemakers
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” - Matthew 5:9. In this episode, Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb discuss how belief in Jesus divides earthly families and relationships, but brings us into communion with a new family. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
7/21/2024 • 39 minutes, 56 seconds
A Vision for the Pure in Heart
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” - Matthew 5:8. How can sinners be “pure in heart”? In this episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller consider how Christians are refined in the crucible of God’s sanctification—shaped through trials, strengthened in their daily struggles with sin, and fully made perfect by God’s grace when faith becomes as sight. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
7/14/2024 • 37 minutes, 38 seconds
Mercy for the Merciful
“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy” - Matthew 5:7. In this episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller discuss what it means to be a people who model God in their character, acting as those who are slow to anger, quick to forgive, and who are eager to give mercy. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Bible Studies from Sola Media Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
7/7/2024 • 41 minutes, 1 second
Righteousness for the Hungry and Thirsty
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.” - Matthew 5:6. What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness? Is righteousness about right relationships or justice—is it about one’s standing before God? Or does it include all three? Through this beatitude, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller dive into the various theological debates around “righteousness” in the Bible. In this episode, the hosts examine claims from N. T. Wright and the New Perspective on Paul. Together, we’ll consider why the imputation of Christ’s righteousness to sinners is an essential doctrine for the church. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
6/30/2024 • 37 minutes, 38 seconds
An Inheritance for the Meek, Humble, and Unimportant
“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the Earth” - Matthew 5:5. Who are the meek? And what does it mean that they will “inherit” the Earth? Does this mean that it’s wrong for Christians to seek prominence? In this episode, Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb discuss the many tensions of the Christian life on display in Christ’s statement. Together, we’ll consider what it means to avoid both an under and an over-realized eschatology—what it means to live faithfully in the already-and-not-yet. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
6/23/2024 • 36 minutes, 37 seconds
Comfort for the Mourning
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” - Matthew 5:4. But how? In this episode, Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb take a look at Jesus pronouncement of “blessing” to those who mourn—how Christ’s kingdom uniquely, and utterly, transforms our grief. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES MENTIONED: At God’s Mercy: Psalm 88 - Justin Holcomb The Comfortable Words Series For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
6/16/2024 • 39 minutes, 17 seconds
A Kingdom for the Poor in Spirit
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven” - Matthew 5:3. What does it mean that the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to the poor in spirit? In the beatitudes, Jesus subverts the wisdom of his our day with the wisdom of his kingdom. Listen in as Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller discuss the first of the beatitudes and how, in God’s kingdom, the poor in spirit are considered “blessed.” CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. RESOURCES MENTIONED: For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
6/9/2024 • 37 minutes, 44 seconds
The Mountains of Scripture
The story of the Bible is a story of mountains. From the Garden-temple of Eden to Ararat, Horeb, Sinai, and Zion—mountains play an important role in the story of the Bible. Time and time again, God chooses mountains as the place of special communion with his people. In this episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, Bob Hiller, and Justin Holcomb survey the biblical mounts and consider the unique role that Christ’s Sermon on the Mount plays in the biblical story. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our May/June issue is “This Isn’t the Reformation You’re Looking For,” where we feature essays and articles about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and how its vision of revivalism and enthusiasm is not the kind of renewal the church and culture needs. RESOURCES MENTIONED Meredith Kline, "God, Heaven, and Har Magedon: A Covenantal Tale of Cosmos and Telos" Jon Levinson, "Sinai and Zion" For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
6/2/2024 • 38 minutes, 56 seconds
Michael Horton’s New Book on the Origins of “Spiritual but Not Religious”
Caleb Wait, Sola Media’s Director of Content, interviews Michael Horton on his new book, “Shaman and Sage: The Roots of “Spiritual but Not Religious” in Antiquity. Many preachers today appeal to headlines that announce a surge in spirituality as if this news offers the church encouragement. We tend to think of modern secular culture as hostile to spirituality—an atheistic world of soulless materialism. So if modern people now want spirituality, Christians often think, that must mean people will find their way toward Christianity. This thesis, among many others, is challenged by Horton in the first volume of his new series on the Divine-Self. Listen in as Horton shares how this new intellectual history of “spiritual but not religious” as a phenomenon in Western culture is the biggest project he’s ever undertaken. Horton shows how ancient shamanist practices and philosophies appear in Plato, schools in Alexandria, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and more, revealing to us that modern practices and beliefs are far more ancient than we think. SHAMAN AND SAGE: THE ROOTS OF “SPIRITUAL NOT RELIGIOUS” IN ANTIQUITY: https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802877116/shaman-and-sage/ CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: FREE DOWNLOAD - Secular Spirituality: A Brief History Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our May/June issue is “This Isn’t the Reformation You’re Looking For,” where we feature essays and articles about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and how its vision of revivalism and enthusiasm is not the kind of renewal the church and culture needs. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
5/26/2024 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 15 seconds
“I Have Nothing Left to Hear Me Say”: Religion without Authority
Where does the spirituality of enthusiasm and the New Apostolic Reformation ultimately lead? Hosts Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb show how ecstatic shaman-like spirituality wrought in enthusiasm results in an isolated life. While autonomous spiritual practices may free us from the external structures and authorities of religion, the hosts share how the ordinary means of grace is the only place where we find true freedom and rest in our spiritual lives. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our May/June issue is “This Isn’t the Reformation You’re Looking For,” where we feature essays and articles about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and how its vision of revivalism and enthusiasm is not the kind of renewal the church and culture needs. RESOURCES MENTIONED: The Triumph of the Therapeutic: Uses of Faith after Freud by Philip Rieff The Sixties Spiritual Awakening by Robert Ellwood The Narcissism Epidemic with Jean Twenge and Michael Horton Generation Me with Jean Twenge and Michael Horton For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
5/19/2024 • 38 minutes, 54 seconds
The New (Old) Apostolic Reformation
The New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) is one of the fastest growing movements "within or on the periphery of American Christianity." Join Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb as they discuss where this contemporary movement came from, what its tenets of dominionism, new apostles, and direct revelation are, why its teachings are so prominent in Contemporary Christian Music, and how they are connected to the old, esoteric tradition of enthusiasm. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our May/June issue is “This Isn’t the Reformation You’re Looking For,” where we feature essays and articles about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and how its vision of revivalism and enthusiasm is not the kind of renewal the church and culture needs. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Redemptive History and the New Testament Scriptures by Herman Ridderbos Counterfeit Kingdom: The Dangers of New Revelation, New Prophets, and New Age Practices in the Church by Holly Pivec, R. Douglas Geivett A New Apostolic Reformation?: A Biblical Response to a Worldwide Movement by Holly Pivec, R. Douglas Geivett For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
5/12/2024 • 38 minutes, 17 seconds
The “Enthusiasts'' of Church History: From Montanists to Modern Day ``Prophets''
Martin Luther once said that, “Adam was the first enthusiast,” and by “enthusiast” he doesn’t mean someone who is enthusiastic. The philosophy of enthusiasm is “god-within-ism,” a belief and tendency to pit internal spirituality versus external texts, institutions, and authorities. In this episode, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller discuss how this “god-within-ism” has appeared in the church, from Montanists, to medieval monks, radical figures in the Reformation, Enlightenment philosophers, and contemporary movements today. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord's Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our May/June issue is “This Isn’t the Reformation You’re Looking For,” where we feature essays and articles about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and how its vision of revivalism and enthusiasm is not the kind of renewal the church and culture needs. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]. Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
5/5/2024 • 38 minutes, 50 seconds
The Heart of the Lord’s Prayer With Adriel Sanchez
Watch this conversation at YouTube.com/@WhiteHorse1990 Bob Hiller sits down with Adriel Sanchez to discuss the most famous prayer in history and his new book, Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord’s Prayer. Adriel is the pastor of North Park Presbyterian Church in San Diego and the host of Sola Media’s radio program, Core Christianity. Pastor Adriel shares how the Lord’s Prayer presupposes the gospel and the doctrine of the Trinity, and how prayer is itself a gift as well as a discipline that requires intentionality on the part of the Christian. Listen in as Bob and Adriel also walk through the petitions of our Lord’s Prayer and how practicing the prayer transforms our lives. (Episode SP017) ON THIS EPISODE: Adriel Sanchez is senior pastor of North Park Presbyterian Church in San Diego and cohost of the Core Christianity radio program. He is also the author of Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord’s Prayer. Bob Hiller is the Senior Pastor of Community Lutheran Church in Escondido, California. He is also the author of Finding Christ in the Straw. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Praying with Jesus: Getting to the Heart of the Lord’s Prayer by Adriel Sanchez. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our May/June issue is “This Isn’t the Reformation You’re Looking For,” where we feature essays and articles about the “New Apostolic Reformation” (NAR) and how its vision of revivalism and enthusiasm is not the kind of renewal the church and culture needs.
5/2/2024 • 46 minutes, 3 seconds
A Vision for a Modern Reformation: From Dechurched to Rechurched
We can't go back to the church environments we grew up with, we can only go forward. So what would a healthy modern reformation and a Great Rechurching look like? Rather than wallowing in pessimism and longing to return to the church of yesteryear, Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Justin Holcomb, and Walter Strickland discuss how the church today can reform and be marked by orthodoxy, love, and resilient joy. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis and Michael Graham, with Ryan P. Burge. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our March/April issue is “The Head & the Heart,” where we feature essays, poems, and articles about how the Bible does not separate the “rational” mind and the “emotive” heart; rather, “In the Bible, the intellect, will, and emotions are all capacities that belong to the whole, integrated person.” For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
4/28/2024 • 38 minutes, 42 seconds
Equipping You to Minister to the Dechurched in Your Life
If you go to church, do you know why you attend? Do you know why your friends and family have casually just stopped going to church? How can we talk about the necessity of the church in a way that is beautiful and life-giving, but goes beyond personal preference? In this episode, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller answer these questions and more as they discuss how Christians can reach out to their dechurched friends, family, and neighbors. “When asked how willing they would be to go back to church, 51 percent said they are either somewhat willing or very willing—51 percent! Unsurprisingly, the reasons they would come back also represent a longing to belong. These dechurched evangelicals said they would come back if they made new friends (28%), if they move and want to make new friends (18%), if they became lonely and want to make new friends (20%), if their children want to go (16%), if their spouse wants to go (18%), if a friend invites them (17%), if there is a good pastor (18%), if they find a good community (17%), if they miss their church community (20%), or if they just find a church they like (14%). This group's high orthodoxy scores also inform other reasons they would come back: if they feel the distance from God (20%) or if God tells them to go back in some significant way (18%). The main takeaway here is that many dechurched evangelicals simply need a friend to invite them to church.” - The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis and Michael Graham, with Ryan P. Burge, p. 28. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis and Michael Graham, with Ryan P. Burge. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our March/April issue is “The Head & the Heart,” where we feature essays, poems, and articles about how the Bible does not separate the “rational” mind and the “emotive” heart; rather, “In the Bible, the intellect, will, and emotions are all capacities that belong to the whole, integrated person.” For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
4/21/2024 • 38 minutes, 42 seconds
How the Local Church Can Minister to the Dechurched
What happened in American culture and in the church from the 1970s-1990s? What were the conversations and big concerns of that time when White Horse Inn recorded its first episodes? In answering some of these questions, churches can get their bearings as to what trends have impacted those who no longer sit in their pews and what to do about it. “The early 1990s was an inflection point for American religion. Between the early 1970s and 1990s, the share of Americans who had no religious affiliation had only risen two points. But from that point forward, the nones would grow by a percentage point or two nearly every year through the following three decades.” - Ryan Burge, “‘OK Millennial’: Don’t Blame the Boomers for Decline of Religious America” Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb discuss how modern historical events and trends have impacted church attendance today and how to respond. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis and Michael Graham, with Ryan P. Burge. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our March/April issue is “The Head & the Heart,” where we feature essays, poems, and articles about how the Bible does not separate the “rational” mind and the “emotive” heart; rather, “In the Bible, the intellect, will, and emotions are all capacities that belong to the whole, integrated person.” For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
4/14/2024 • 40 minutes, 24 seconds
The Great Dechurching, with Michael Graham and Jim Davis
Justin Holcomb interviews Jim Davis and Michael Graham, authors of The Great Dechurching, to discuss why forty million Americans have stopped attending church in the past 25 years. Many attribute church decline to encroaching secular trends, abuse in the church, or spiritual deconstruction. While all of these trends have spiked in recent years, Davis and Graham, with the help of Ryan Burge, reveal that these factors are not the primary causes for the erosion of church attendance and share what the church can do to turn back those estranged from her. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? by Jim Davis and Michael Graham, with Ryan P. Burge. Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine. Our March/April issue is “The Head & the Heart,” where we feature essays, poems, and articles about how the Bible does not separate the “rational” mind and the “emotive” heart; rather, “In the Bible, the intellect, will, and emotions are all capacities that belong to the whole, integrated person.” For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Justin Holcomb, Michael Graham and Jim Davis
4/7/2024 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 25 seconds
Preaching the Resurrection Amidst the Mockery of the World
On this Easter Sunday, we join Paul at the Areopagus in Acts 17. Hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller dive into Paul’s apologetic approach as he speaks to his pagan audience and how on Easter we will, like Paul, be mocked by some for preaching the resurrection of the dead, while others will want to hear more about its hope and promise. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Knowing the Bible: Acts Study by Justin Holcomb Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Head & the Heart.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
3/31/2024 • 42 minutes, 6 seconds
Preaching That Frees Us from the Law
In Acts 13:16-41, we encounter the newly converted Paul preaching at the synagogue in Antioch. In this episode, Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb discuss what happened between Stephen’s death and Paul’s conversion, and what uniquely transformed Paul from a law-abiding Pharisee to preaching “[freedom] from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.” CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Knowing the Bible: Acts Study by Justin Holcomb Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Head & the Heart.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
3/24/2024 • 38 minutes, 52 seconds
Preaching That Endures the Anger of Mobs
In Acts 7, we see Stephen’s sermon before the Sanhedrin. What did he say that enraged those he was speaking to and how can we model his posture of forgiveness in the face of persecution? Hosts Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, Bob Hiller, and Justin Holcomb trace Stephen’s redemptive historical tour de force that ultimately culminates in his martyrdom and ask how we can model our own lives and ministries after his example. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Knowing the Bible: Acts Study by Justin Holcomb Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Head & the Heart.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
3/17/2024 • 42 minutes, 24 seconds
Preaching Repentance to the Religious and Irreligious Alike
Why was Jesus sent to the Jews first? How does the church relate to Israel now? In Acts 3:12-26, Peter continues to unravel for the “Men of Israel” how Jesus is the fulfillment of the promises made to the Patriarchs, Moses, and the Prophets. In this episode, Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Justin Holcomb, and Walter Strickland discuss Peter’s second sermon, how Christianity and Judaism became their own distinct religions, and how the preaching of the gospel calls for the religious and irreligious alike to repent and have faith in Christ. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Knowing the Bible: Acts Study by Justin Holcomb Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Head & the Heart.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
3/10/2024 • 36 minutes, 3 seconds
A Tribute to Rod Rosenbladt
Watch this conversation at youtube.com/@whitehorse1990 Let’s just go to the OK Corral together to defend the gospel and help people.” In this episode of White Horse Inn, original hosts, Michael Horton, Ken Jones, and Kim Riddlebarger discuss the impact and legacy of their dear friend and former co-host, Rod Rosenbladt. Rod died after a brief illness on February 2, 2024. For those at White Horse Inn, “Dad Rod” was more than just a regular voice articulating a confessional Lutheran distinctive on the radio. He was a mentor, a father in the faith, and a trusted friend. Listen in to hear how Mike, Kim, and Ken met Rod, how he had a desire to win people, not arguments, and how he never forgot to point us all away from ourselves to “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.
3/8/2024 • 50 minutes, 2 seconds
Preaching That Cuts to the Heart
What can the modern church learn from apostolic preaching in Acts? More than we may realize. In this episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller uncover many of the key themes, components, and characteristics of apostolic preaching. Starting with Peter’s Pentecost sermon in Acts 2:14-40, the hosts discuss the hermeneutics of the apostles and how we can use their insights in the Old Testament to “cut to the heart” of those who hear our message today. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Knowing the Bible: Acts Study by Justin Holcomb Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Head & the Heart.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton, Bob Hiller, Walter Strickland, and Justin Holcomb
3/3/2024 • 44 minutes, 47 seconds
Art in the Christian Life with Guest Ann Tarwater
Michael Horton is joined by Ann Tarwater to discuss the place of art in the Christian life, if art is just for the elites, and how churches can emphasize truth, but neglect goodness and beauty. Ann started her career as a model for famous American fashion designers Oscar de la Renta, Mary McFadden, Alpert Nipon, and many others. She also graduated with a Masters of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. Building upon her background in modeling and fashion as well as theology, Ann launched The Appropriate Method, a business teaching etiquette and protocol to children and adults. Ann currently serves on the Advisory Board for the Arts at Queens University, the Board of Craft and Design for the Mint Museum, and the Chaplains Advisory Board for Atrium Health. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Sign up to receive an original art print for this series at whitehorseinn.org/offers Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Arts.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Michael Horton and Ann Tarwater
2/25/2024 • 24 minutes, 20 seconds
Art and the Pulpit with Guest Dr. Carl Ellis
Walter Strickland and Carl Ellis discuss how the sermon is a piece of rhetoric that is not merely made of wise words (Acts 4:13), but could also be described as a piece of art. Even if there are no icons, tapestries, and stained glass windows in a church, there is still art in worship and in the sermon. Dr. Carl Ellis began his ministry as a Senior Campus Minister in New York, he studied under Francis Schaeffer at LÁbri in Switzerland, completed his MAR at Westminster Theological Seminary, and holds a D.Phil. from Oxford Graduate School. In recent years, Dr. Ellis has served as an adjunct faculty member at the Center for Urban Theological Studies and as Dean of Intercultural Studies at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia and is now the leader of the African American Leadership Initiative at Reformed Theological Seminary, where he teaches, and collaborates with RTS presidents, deans and faculty to cultivate mentoring and modeling of students who aspire to serve in predominantly black church and multi-ethnic contexts. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Sign up to receive an original art print for this series at whitehorseinn.org/offers Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Arts.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected] Featuring: Walter Strickland and Carl Ellis
2/18/2024 • 39 minutes, 51 seconds
Art and Church Architecture with Guest Dr. Lloyd DeWitt
Justin Holcomb sits down with Lloyd DeWitt to discuss how the church has historically thought of sacred space and architecture, what we can learn from categories and trends that have impacted church architecture, and what we miss when we replace steeples, pulpits, and cathedrals with many eclectic, modern designs. Dr. DeWitt is the Chief Curator and Irene Leache Curator of European Art at the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk, Virginia. He holds a Ph.D. in Art History from the University of Maryland, College Park, where he specialized in Northern Baroque and Northern Renaissance Art and his interests range broadly, from African art to 20th-century Canadian art. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Sign up to receive an original art print for this series at whitehorseinn.org/offers Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Arts.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]
2/11/2024 • 41 minutes, 7 seconds
Art and the Reformation with Guest Dr. Dan van Voorhis
Bob Hiller is joined by Dan van Voorhis to discuss a theology of the arts and how Reformational theology, and Lutheran theology specifically, instructs Christians on the place of art as we live coram deo (in the presence of God). They discuss if art can be “redeemed,” cultivating good taste in art, differences in Lutheran and Reformed traditions, and more. After receiving his Ph.D. in History from the University of St. Andrews, Dr. van Voorhis spent 11 years teaching history and political thought at Concordia University, Irvine. He is now the 1517 Academy Dean. He also spends his time writing for 1517 and hosting the Soul of Christianity and the Christian History Almanac podcasts. CHECK OUT THIS MONTH’S OFFERS: Sign up to receive an original art print for this series at whitehorseinn.org/offers Subscribe to Modern Reformation magazine, and don’t miss this month’s issue, “The Arts.” Become a Partner to support the work of White Horse Inn as we apply the riches of the Reformation to the modern church. For more information, visit us at whitehorseinn.org or email us at [email protected]
2/4/2024 • 38 minutes, 17 seconds
Misunderstood Passages about the “Inconsistencies” in the Bible
The Bible is a large library of ancient books, covering different ancient literary genres. While all things that pertain to how we can be saved are made plain and clear in the words of Scripture, not everything in the Bible is equally as clear. There are many passages that seem to contradict themselves, which can create a hay day for those antagonistic toward the faith. It can also make for a difficult devotional time for the Christian just trying to faithfully read Scripture. In this episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller show how we can make sense of passages in the Bible that seem to subvert each other and more.
1/28/2024 • 43 minutes, 33 seconds
Misunderstood Passages about the Weird Stuff in the Bible
From the Nephilim to the imprecatory psalms, there is a lot of weird stuff in the Bible. The problem is that for many people, these texts can quickly turn into rabbit holes of vain speculation. In the episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller show how ordinary Christians can be inquisitive readers of Scripture—being receptive to their meaning and place in God’s revelation—while also refraining from making the strange and the niche central to our who we are.
1/21/2024 • 38 minutes, 34 seconds
Misunderstood Passages About Culture
When it comes to cultural concerns of our day, Bible passages are often used by pastors, politicians, or concerned family members to calm or stoke anxiety and fear in others. In this episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller situate these passages in their original context and discuss how they’re often used to address the salient cultural and political issues that occupy so many people’s attention today.
1/14/2024 • 41 minutes, 46 seconds
Misunderstood Passages About the Christian Life
When it comes to cultural concerns of our day, Bible passages are often used by pastors, politicians, or concerned family members to calm or stoke anxiety and fear in others. In this episode, Michael Horton, Walter Strickland, and Bob Hiller situate these passages in their original context and discuss how they’re often used to address the salient cultural and political issues that occupy so many people’s attention today.
1/7/2024 • 39 minutes, 37 seconds
I Will Build My Church
Thank you for supporting and listening to White Horse Inn this year! In this special year-end episode, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland answer listener questions and reflect on what excites them as they anticipate God’s work in 2024.
12/31/2023 • 43 minutes, 4 seconds
The Blessings of Simeon
As we consider Christ’s birth, we can’t help but consider his death. From a baby in a manager to a man hanging on a cross, it is through Jesus’s life, death, and resurrection that we find the hope and joy we sing about at Christmas. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland reflect on The Song of Simeon, recognizing God’s faithfulness and Jesus’s redemptive purpose.
12/24/2023 • 39 minutes, 56 seconds
Gratitude and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come (Special)
"Before I draw nearer to that stone to which you point," said Scrooge, "answer me one question." In this special episode re-release, Michael Horton shares how the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come in Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' points us to our need for a transformation, but how only the gospel can move us from behavioral change to living a new life of gratitude and joy.
12/22/2023 • 7 minutes, 16 seconds
Grace and the Ghost of Christmas Present (Special)
"Come in! and know me better, man!" In this special episode re-release, Justin Holcomb shares how the Ghost of Christmas Present in Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' teaches us about grace and peace and the invitation to feast in the Christian life.
12/20/2023 • 10 minutes, 20 seconds
Guilt and the Ghost of Christmas Past (Special)
“Oh! But he was a tight-fisted hand at the grindstone, Scrooge! a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous, old sinner!” In this special episode re-release, Bob Hiller shares how the Ghost of Christmas Past in Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' teaches us about guilt, the law, and how we are freed from its condemnation through Christ.
12/18/2023 • 5 minutes, 56 seconds
The Angel’s Announcement: Gloria
Angelic announcements are found throughout both the Old and New Testaments, but angels remain perplexing. Why does God use these messengers, and what is the nature of their message? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland delve into the mysteries of these terrifying warriors and their message of peace.
12/17/2023 • 39 minutes, 38 seconds
Legacy, Leadership, and the Law with Guest Sinclair Ferguson
Watch this interview at youtube.com/WhiteHorse1990. In this bonus episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton and Sinclair Ferguson discuss James Montgomery Boice's lasting impact on systematic expository preaching and tackle the modern challenges faced by leaders in the age of social media. Sinclair offers a candid take on the role of pastors versus leaders, as well as the Scottish Reformation, and how to avoid the pitfalls of antinomianism and legalism. (Episode SP015)
12/13/2023 • 42 minutes, 12 seconds
The Way of Peace: Zechariah's Song
Old Testament birth stories often begin with barren women, and the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth follows suit. Conceived in their old age, John the Baptist is born out of a miracle at just the right time—mere months before Jesus. But why is he such a prominent figure in Jesus’s birth narrative? And what can we learn from his father’s song? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the song of Zechariah and how a fiery prophet can “guide our feet into the way of peace.”
12/10/2023 • 38 minutes, 50 seconds
The Magnificat: Mary’s Song of Praise
In the small town of Nazareth, an angel told a humble virgin girl that she would be God’s chosen instrument through whom the deliverer would come. And, though she couldn’t fully comprehend all this would entail, Mary received the Lord’s word and took her place in God’s unfolding plan of redemption. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland dive into Mary’s song of praise. They consider how this simple girl became the mother of the mediator, how she responded to the responsibility of caring for the Savior of the world, and what her life means to us.
12/3/2023 • 40 minutes, 39 seconds
Sharing Hope Through Hardship with Guest Joni Eareckson Tada
In this bonus episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton interviews Joni Eareckson Tada, who shares her story of hope through hardship and how her determination continues to help others with similar disabilities all across the globe. (Episode SP014)
11/29/2023 • 30 minutes, 18 seconds
Where Do We Go From Here?
What does Christianity and liberalism look like 100 years later? How does Machen’s writing apply to us today, and what does that mean for the future of the American church? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland advocate for a modern reformation, reflecting on what must still be recovered and what it looks like to resist the pull of liberalism today.
11/26/2023 • 44 minutes, 38 seconds
All Heroes Are Flawed: Racism in the American Church
We admire and imitate our heroes, and we’re often shocked when we discover their flaws. But is there value in facing their failures? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland break down the history of racism within the American church and consider what we can learn from the past as we move forward in love.
11/19/2023 • 44 minutes, 49 seconds
How to Keep Your Faith After High School with Guests Adriel Sanchez, Gretchen Ronnevik, and Kendra Dahl
The following is a special bonus episode from our sister program, Core Christianity. In this cross-confessional conversation, Core Radio host Pastor Adriel Sanchez is joined by Kendra Dahl and Gretchen Ronnevik to discuss how to help our kids keep their faith. With both a reformed and a Lutheran perspective at the table, we thought this conversation would be perfect for our White Horse Inn audience. (Episode SP013) You can also watch this three part series on Core Christianity's YouTube channel. Just go to youtube.com/corechristianity.
11/15/2023 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 48 seconds
What Is Liberalism?
When we hear the word “liberalism”, we often think of liberal politics. But Christianity and Liberalism has religion in mind. Machen shows what happens when liberalism is inserted into religion—it morphs into something completely different from biblical Christianity. So what makes it so appealing to theologians? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland define liberalism and dive into its distortion of Christianity.
11/12/2023 • 40 minutes, 25 seconds
Shall the Fundamentalists Win?
During the 1920s, American Pastor Harry Fosdick wrote a sermon called, “Shall the Fundamentalists Win?” addressing the controversies he saw rising within American churches. As the ideas of Freud, Marx, and Nietzsche grew in cultural importance, they began to influence theologians as well. So, Fosdick argued, “The liberals must go.” In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland take on the historical details of where fundamentalism came from, explaining how it weaved its way into the Church, and what happened after.
11/5/2023 • 37 minutes, 46 seconds
Soli Deo Gloria: Our Only Ambition
From award speeches to success stories, glory is consistently self-attributed. So, what does it look like to be motivated by God’s glory? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland consider the foundation of soli Deo Gloria, or “for the glory of God alone.” As they wrap up this series on the five solas in this episode, they also reflect on the current state of the relationship between Protestants and Roman Catholics.
10/29/2023 • 41 minutes, 7 seconds
Sola Fide: Our Only Means
How do we receive and rest in God’s righteousness? This question propelled the Reformers forward, confronting Rome’s insistence that justification is something believers must cooperate to receive. Instead, they proclaimed sola fide, or “through faith alone.” In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the doctrine of justification by faith alone and consider the role of good works in the Christian’s life.
10/22/2023 • 41 minutes, 1 second
Sola Gratia: Our Only Method
If our culture is like water, then the concept of grace is its oil. We like to work hard and believe our efforts should merit reward. Until, of course, we come face-to-face with our inability to truly “help ourselves.” In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland break down the history of sola gratia, or “by grace alone,” confronting the continued influence of Pelagianism today and how grace sets us free.
10/15/2023 • 41 minutes, 36 seconds
Solus Christus: Our Only Mediator
With Solus Christus, or “through Christ alone,” the Reformers addressed our need for a mediator. Taking issue with the role of priests in the Roman Catholic church, the Reformers pointed to the “one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Tim. 2:5), highlighting the priesthood of all believers. So what role does that leave for ministers today? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss solus Christus and point to our joy in the sufficiency of Christ.
10/8/2023 • 41 minutes, 40 seconds
Sola Scriptura: Our One Foundation
With Sola Scriptura, or “through Scripture alone,” the Reformers affirmed the authority of Scripture over and above the tradition of the Roman Catholic church. Today, questions of authority and accountability still plague the church, stemming from the influence of radical Anabaptists, modern biblicists, the continued tradition of Rome, and our own culturally shaped desires to have the final say. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss sola Scriptura and how it can be good news for the church today.
10/1/2023 • 42 minutes, 6 seconds
Inside the Evangelical Movement that Failed a Generation with Guest Jon Ward
In this bonus episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton interviews Jon Ward about his new book Testimony: Inside the Evangelical Movement that Failed a Generation, which discusses his experience in the Evangelical church and his takeaways after stepping out of it. (Episode SP012)
9/27/2023 • 34 minutes, 11 seconds
Impact of the Gospel: Growing Deeper, Never Out
Throughout history, Christianity has profoundly impacted societies for the better, with Christians founding hospitals and adoption agencies and advocating for the poor and oppressed. Today, we may benefit from these Christian influences, but do we carry on their legacy? Are we contributing to the growth of Christianity, or are we growing out of it? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland point us to God’s work all around us, encouraging us toward a faith-centered life in the “already” as we anticipate the joy of the “not yet.”
9/24/2023 • 43 minutes, 5 seconds
Sprouts of the New Creation
The darkness can often feel out of control, tempting us towards hopelessness and fear. Scripture assures us that God is powerful and his mercy is abundant, and even now the gospel is planting seeds of Christ’s kingdom in and through his people. So, where are these sprouts of the new creation? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland reflect on God’s work in their own lives, helping us see the age to come breaking in on this present evil age through the ministry of sinful human beings.
9/17/2023 • 44 minutes, 19 seconds
Living Between Worlds
Trying to achieve salvation through works is a human tendency, but this works-based ideology is contrary to the Bible’s message of salvation by grace alone through faith in Christ alone. So, how does living in the already-but-not-yet impact our standing before God? What does it mean for where our citizenship lies? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the role of the church and what it means to be in the world but not of it.
9/10/2023 • 39 minutes, 59 seconds
Eschatology: Last Things First
When someone mentions the “end times,” what comes to mind? Does it make you anxious, or perhaps tempt you to sit back and idly wait? Eschatology refers to the end, but really, it ought to come first. Our understanding of how things end positions us in God’s timeline and orient's us toward the ultimate goal of our salvation. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland dive into the theological history of eschatology, how we should be practicing it, and why it’s vital.
9/3/2023 • 39 minutes, 52 seconds
Uncommon Unity with Guest Richard Lints
In this bonus episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton interviews Richard Lints about his new book Uncommon Unity and dives into the history of American politics and social issues in relation to Christianity. (Episode SP011)
8/30/2023 • 43 minutes, 51 seconds
Triumph: The Death of Death
When the trials of tragedy and trauma feel overwhelming, we can forget the victory our Savior accomplished for us. Our own Creator came to us in the flesh—God’s one and only Son bore the full weight of sin and death, giving us everlasting life. We are undeserving; nevertheless, he defeated death for us. How do we remember this marvelous truth in the midst of chaos? How do we continue to have the full hope God intended for us? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss how Jesus triumphs over death and suffering, and they reflect on how we wait on the Lord during our own difficult trials.
8/27/2023 • 40 minutes, 13 seconds
Trauma: The Pain of Belief in a Sovereign God
In some ways, trauma has become a buzzword, both culturally and within the church. Even in places that are supposed to be the most safe, traumatic experiences seem rampant. So, how do we deal with it all? Where does God’s will come into play and how can we have hope during some of the darkest times of our lives? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland wrestle with the issues we’re facing when it comes to addressing trauma and how the church can help others see the hope of God—even in the dark.
8/20/2023 • 42 minutes
Tragedy: Meaningful or Meaningless?
When tragedy strikes us, what do we do? Do we want to immediately blame God? Do we try to rationalize it in some way? Or do we just lose hope? When trials feel like a main player in our lives, it can be overwhelming. We might feel entitled to the answers for our questions. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland take on the challenge of addressing God’s part in our tragedies and consider how to find our way when we feel lost.
8/13/2023 • 37 minutes, 55 seconds
Theorizing Evil: Is There Still a Place For Apologetics?
German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once said that there’s an old illusion, and “it is called good and evil.” Throughout the ages, people have either thrown out the idea of evil, like Nietzsche, or attempted to rationalize it with their belief system. So, if everyone in some way gives an account for real evil and suffering in the world, what do Christians have to say about it? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland tackle the historical reasons for evil and suffering and what resources we have, as believers, to face this fallen world.
8/6/2023 • 37 minutes, 2 seconds
The Church in America in the 21st Century with Guest Aaron Renn
In this bonus episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton interviews Aaron Renn about his aim of helping the church in America rise to the challenge of finding success in the 21st century.
8/2/2023 • 41 minutes, 8 seconds
Identity in Christ
The secular world sees our identity as something that we achieve instead of receive. They take the brokenness of a fallen world and fashion it into identities in everything but Jesus Christ. So, how do we stand firm when the world pulls us to adopt these broken identities? How do we understand our natures in light of the God who carefully made us? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland break down what it means to live in Christ’s identity, not our own, and how we can firmly walk against the grain of our culture.
7/30/2023 • 40 minutes, 25 seconds
Restoring Eve with Guest Kendra Dahl
In this bonus episode of White Horse Inn, Caleb Wait interviews Kendra Dahl about her article in Modern Reformation, "Restoring Eve." Listen in as they discuss potential interpretations of the woman's desire in Genesis 3:16 and its implications for the church today.
7/26/2023 • 24 minutes, 6 seconds
Nature and Norms: Disentangling Created Essence from Social Stereotypes
Individualization seems to be ingrained into Western culture. Personal experience, self-proclaimed identity, toleration, and relative truth are the reigning figures of society. While God gives wisdom through his Scriptures, the norms and nature he has set for us are at constant odds with these prevailing cultural narratives. So how do we not fall prey to social stereotypes? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the challenges of today’s culture of relativity and gender stereotypes and how we can stay truthful to what God’s word says about our nature.
7/23/2023 • 36 minutes, 13 seconds
Where Did We Go Wrong?
If God made both man and woman in his image as partners in the good work of filling up and caring for the earth, why does society seem to pit men and women against each other? Both in the church and in broader secular culture, men and women seem to be in competition rather than working in partnership. Could this be the reason why so many people are steeped with anxiety, gender confusion, or addiction? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland wrestle with the challenges of today’s culture, misconceptions within the church, and how to get back to the truth of God’s word.
7/16/2023 • 41 minutes, 22 seconds
One Image: Male and Female
The conversation of gender identity seems to have swept into every crevice of our culture. From debating gender “norms” to questioning the concept of biological gender completely, society has demanded to have a say in how men and women should understand themselves and the roles they play. But what are the ramifications of allowing the world to tell what we are to be instead of Scripture? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland untangle the narrative of creation as male and female and the importance of the differences we have been given by our Creator.
7/9/2023 • 39 minutes, 39 seconds
By Nature, Crowned with Glory
In the beginning, God spoke the world into existence. He made man and woman the crown of his creation, image-bearers of the Almighty God. Humans have a special place in God’s created order. But as we know, it didn’t take long for sin to enter the world, corrupting this image and changing our relationship to our Creator. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland consider our true nature as those created by God and why it’s important for us to understand our origin story.
7/2/2023 • 47 minutes, 37 seconds
The Kiss of Betrayal: How Do We Relate to Judas?
From disciple to betrayer, Judas Iscariot is a figure with whom not many would choose to associate. It’s hard to imagine how someone could walk with Jesus and yet betray him. So why would Christ choose someone like Judas? Are we all just like him in more ways than we realize? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss what we can learn from the story of Judas Iscariot and his kiss of betrayal.
6/25/2023 • 40 minutes, 4 seconds
The Glory Days: Saul, David, and Solomon
Though the Israelites recalled the monarchy as their “glory days,” even their most noteworthy kings were messy, complicated, and oftentimes disappointing in their actions. So why do we need their stories? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland wrestle with the challenges and significance of the first three monarchs in Israel’s history: Saul, David, and Solomon.
6/18/2023 • 42 minutes, 49 seconds
Flawed Heroes: Samson's Legacy
All Bible stories are really just one story repeated over and over again, describing the intersection between our sinful condition and God’s relentless faithfulness. So it should come as no surprise when even the heroes of the story seem to be the most flawed. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland consider the shocking narrative of Samson, explaining how all stories, like Samsons’, lead us back to the glory of God.
6/11/2023 • 39 minutes, 45 seconds
Out of Slavery and to the Promised Land: Why Moses?
Called by God to lead his people to the promised land, Moses is heralded as a prophet like no other—one with whom God spoke face to face. But between his murderous past, bursts of anger that ultimately kept him from entering the promised land, and his own record that he was the most humble man to ever live, is he the hero we think? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland tackle the complicated details of Moses’s life, reflecting on how God works in and through sinners.
6/4/2023 • 42 minutes, 3 seconds
What are the Means of Grace?
When new converts are brought into the church, they are often loaded up with the need to read the Bible, pray, practice repentance, and get into the community—but equally vital to spiritual health is a right understanding of and participation in the means of grace. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss how the means of grace are used for our sanctification and why they are central to life and identity in the church.
5/28/2023 • 37 minutes, 55 seconds
What Is the Lord’s Supper?
Christ instituted the Lord’s Supper and commanded the church to “do this in remembrance of me.” But why? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland compare the unique views of the Lutheran, Baptist, Reformed, and Anglican traditions of this sacrament and what it means to participate in our union with Christ by “eating his body and drinking his blood.”
5/21/2023 • 41 minutes, 36 seconds
What Is Baptism?
From his own baptism by John the Baptist to his last commission to his followers to go and make disciples from all nations, Jesus’s ministry is marked by this sacrament. But what does it mean? What are its biblical origins? And who should receive it? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the traditional Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Baptist, and Reformed views on the sacrament of baptism.
5/14/2023 • 46 minutes, 13 seconds
What Is a Sacrament?
What are the differences between Reformational, Roman Catholic, and Anabaptist sacramental views? And what are sacraments for? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the common impressions and misconceptions of the sacraments in a society prone toward unmediated spirituality.
5/7/2023 • 41 minutes, 6 seconds
How Will the World End?
Soteriology precedes eschatology—but how? And what will the judgment of the risen Christ look like? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland examine different views of the end times as they consider our hopeful future—one where the work of Christ finally culminates in the new heavens and new earth.
4/30/2023 • 45 minutes, 24 seconds
The Bad Plan of the Ascension
The ascension seems like a really bad plan. Why would Christ leave his disciples? Is the indwelling Spirit truly better than Christ in the flesh? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss Jesus’s gifts to the church through his intercession and his continuing priestly office in which he acts as our advocate and intercessor.
4/23/2023 • 44 minutes, 8 seconds
The Passive Obedience of Christ
Many people struggle with the concept of atonement. What do we make of a God who demands the sacrifice of his own Son? And what exactly is happening in Christ’s work on the cross? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland consider the covenantal context for Christ’s passive obedience and speak to some of the harmful ways this doctrine has been misapplied.
4/16/2023 • 43 minutes, 58 seconds
The Active Obedience of Christ
Most Christians know about the forgiveness of sins, but not the doctrine of active obedience. But how do we become righteous if not through imputation? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland explain what is meant by the active obedience of Christ and why there’s no hope without it.
4/9/2023 • 43 minutes, 42 seconds
Two Natures, One Lord: Incarnation
Christ’s incarnation immediately sets Christianity apart from other religions and disrupts the expectations of religious leaders. So, what is this important doctrine and what do we lose if we deny it? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland consider Christ’s divine and human natures and what Christ’s incarnation means for us.
4/2/2023 • 46 minutes, 37 seconds
How to Do Law and Gospel Wrong
Throughout this series, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland have talked a lot about the need to distinguish law from gospel, but what happens when there’s not only a distinction but a division between the two? In this episode of White Horse Inn, the roundtable considers various distortions of the law-gospel distinction and their implications for the church.
3/26/2023 • 41 minutes, 9 seconds
Why the Order Matters
Proponents of the law-gospel distinction have often emphasized the need for them to appear in the right order. But how important is that order? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss what’s at stake if the law and gospel are out of order or confused.
3/19/2023 • 42 minutes, 9 seconds
What Is the Gospel?
Is the gospel something that we do? Is it something—like a law—that we can execute or abide by? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland unpack the covenant of grace throughout Scripture, considering the counterintuitive nature of God’s unilateral kindness to us in the gospel.
3/12/2023 • 43 minutes, 32 seconds
What Is the Law?
We are no strangers to the category of “law,” but how is God’s law different from man-made laws and rituals? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the importance of the law-gospel distinction and dig into the definition of the law and its impact on God’s people today.
3/5/2023 • 44 minutes, 7 seconds
What Is the Law?
We are no strangers to the category of “law,” but how is God’s law different from man-made laws and rituals? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland discuss the importance of the law-gospel distinction and dig into the definition of the law and its impact on God’s people today.
3/5/2023 • 44 minutes, 7 seconds
God’s Remedy (1 John 2:1–2)
We have a remedy to our sin problem, declared in 1 John 2:1-2, the fourth and final Comfortable Word. Because Jesus was our sacrifice, he is now our advocate. In this conclusion to our series on Thomas Cranmer’s Comfortable Words, White Horse Inn hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller reflect on the doctrine of propitiation, the order of the words, and the comfort found in remembering that Christ is our advocate.
2/26/2023 • 39 minutes, 2 seconds
God’s Diagnosis (1 Timothy 1:15)
The third word (1 Timothy 1:15) diagnoses our human condition, revealing not just the subjective feeling of burden but also the objective consequences of violating God’s law. So how is this a “Comfortable Word”? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller consider the doctrine of sin and the concept and comfort of simul justus et peccator—“simultaneously justified and sinner.”
2/19/2023 • 43 minutes, 7 seconds
God’s Disposition (John 3:16)
The second of the Comfortable Words, John 3:16, demonstrates God’s desire and initiative to save his people. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller unpack this familiar verse and consider its implications for how we think about salvation, fellow image-bearers, and our Christian freedom.
2/12/2023 • 37 minutes, 59 seconds
God’s Invitation
As Christians, we often struggle to view God as one who wants to meet us with words of comfort and good news. But understanding God’s heart towards sinners is not just a therapeutic exercise, it’s our only hope in the midst of our spiritual fatigue. In this episode, White Horse Inn hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller discuss the first of the Comfortable Words, Matthew 11:28, exposing our weariness and longing while exploring the rest that Christ offers.
2/5/2023 • 41 minutes, 51 seconds
Spiritual Disciplines
Do Reformational people read their Bibles? Do they have daily “quiet times”? Is it important for them to pray every day? Sometimes we can give people the sense that all God really cares about is public worship, but what happens in our public assembly should flow down into our families and then into our individual spiritual lives as well. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller discuss the role private piety plays in our Christian life, considering how we can reclaim spiritual disciplines for our churches.
1/29/2023 • 44 minutes, 32 seconds
Every Member Ministry and Simple Church
Many of us were raised in churches that downplayed the clergy-laity distinction. Every member, we were told, was a minister. Now, we’re in churches that take ordination seriously and that sees the biblical rationale for “office.” Maybe we’re even relieved to find that these churches don’t fill our calendars with a busy week of “ministry activities,” but instead prioritize Sunday worship. But where does that leave the laity? And where is the spiritual formation that happens when we live in community with one another? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller consider how the liturgy of our worship pushes back against the liturgies of the world. And they discuss the responsibility of members to exercise their spiritual gifts alongside their freedom to receive and rest on the Lord’s day.
1/22/2023 • 45 minutes, 8 seconds
Sin and Total Depravity
Many churches preach that your biggest problem is that you’re not living your best life now. Rather than calling people to repentance, they call them to “try harder, do better” so that they can be fulfilled, healthy, and happy. Reformed theology provides a doctrine to help counter this wrong diagnosis of our true problem: total depravity. But sometimes, this doctrine sounds much more like “utter depravity,” leaving nothing good or redeemable about humanity. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller consider how we hold total depravity in tension with the goodness of humanity.
1/15/2023 • 41 minutes, 40 seconds
The Egghead
Is Christianity really as intellectually driven as some of us seem to think? Sermons are lectures. Bible studies, book groups, and theology discussions take on an outsized role in the life of the church. We have difficulty talking to people who don’t know our jargon. In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller discuss how we can push back against an overly intellectual approach to the faith and embrace a holistic church ministry and spiritual life.
1/8/2023 • 43 minutes, 37 seconds
Tim Keller on Suffering, Forgiveness, and the Future of the Church
Martin Luther once said, "Prayer, study, and suffering make a pastor." Few things can better describe the life and ministry of Tim Keller. In this episode, Michael Horton is joined by Tim Keller to discuss how his cancer diagnosis has affected his spiritual practices, why forgiveness is essential in life and society, the church's resilience amidst increasing secularization, and more.
1/1/2023 • 46 minutes, 12 seconds
Our Full Homage to Demand
In this final episode for the 2022 Christmas series, White Horse Inn hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller unpack the beloved Christmas text, Isaiah 9:6, considering how each phrase is truly good news of great joy: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
12/25/2022 • 42 minutes, 51 seconds
Gratitude and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come
"Before I draw nearer to that stone to which you point," said Scrooge, "answer me one question." In this special episode, Michael Horton shares how the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come in Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' points us to our need for a transformation, but how only the gospel can move us from behavioral change to living a new life of gratitude and joy.
12/21/2022 • 7 minutes, 16 seconds
He Came in God the Father’s Name
What did Jesus accomplish in his first Advent? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller consider the effects of the incarnation of the Son of God—sin is atoned for, exile is over, and his reign reaches “far as the curse is found.”
12/18/2022 • 43 minutes, 50 seconds
Grace and the Ghost of Christmas Present
"Come in! and know me better, man!" In this special episode, Justin Holcomb shares how the Ghost of Christmas Present in Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' teaches us about grace and peace and the invitation to feast in the Christian life.
12/14/2022 • 10 minutes, 20 seconds
Robed in Dreadful Majesty
As we wait for Jesus to come again, what exactly are we waiting for? What kind of kingdom will Jesus bring? In this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller look back to the expectations surrounding the Messiah’s coming and consider what Christ’s rule and reign look like now and in the future.
12/11/2022 • 43 minutes, 31 seconds
Guilt and the Ghost of Christmas Past
“Oh! But he was a tight-fisted hand at the grindstone, Scrooge! a squeezing, wrenching, grasping, scraping, clutching, covetous, old sinner!” In this special episode, Bob Hiller shares how the Ghost of Christmas Past in Dickens's 'A Christmas Carol' teaches us about guilt, the law, and how we are freed from its condemnation through Christ.
12/7/2022 • 5 minutes, 56 seconds
Death’s Dark Shadows
The Advent season reminds us that we’re still waiting. But as we long and wait for God’s promised peace and redemption, we’re tempted to take matters into our own hands. On this episode of White Horse Inn, hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller discuss what Advent is and what faithful longing for God’s peace and redemption looks like.
12/4/2022 • 37 minutes, 49 seconds
David VanDrunen and Two Kingdoms
In this episode, David VanDrunen advocates for the Two-Kingdoms view, which Michael Horton shares. Though they are not uniform in their approaches, this beneficial conversation examines the view of the Two-Kingdoms, the criticisms against it, and its practical application in the church and society.
11/27/2022 • 42 minutes, 8 seconds
The Thrill of Orthodoxy with Guest Trevin Wax
In this special Thanksgiving episode of the White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb interviews Trevin Wax about his new book, The Thrill of Orthodoxy: Rediscovering the Adventure of Christian Faith.
11/23/2022 • 36 minutes
Gary DeMar and American Vision
In this episode, Gary DeMar advocates that America once had a Christian heritage that can and should be recovered and that some of Israel’s civil laws should indeed govern American and Western society.
11/20/2022 • 44 minutes, 22 seconds
Susannah Black Roberts and Christian Post-Liberalism
In this episode, Susannah Black Roberts advocates for the view of “Christian post-liberalism,” defending her position that “the purpose of earthly government is to bring those governed to their natural end: to be virtuous men and women with justice in their souls, who participate in the common good of the city; it also has the purpose of directing us to our final supernatural end, according to its own methods, in a humble way and without stepping on the toes of the church.”
11/13/2022 • 41 minutes, 5 seconds
Peter Leithart and Constantinianism
In this episode of White Horse Inn, Peter Leithart advocates for what some describe as “Constantinianism,” where the church is knit into the civic order, and where civic responsibilities are also carried out by the church and its clergy.
11/6/2022 • 39 minutes, 36 seconds
Are You Called to Ministry?
In this special episode concluding our White Horse Inn series on vocation, Michael Horton and Justin Holcomb sit down to discuss the call to vocational ministry. Drawing on their experiences as ordained ministers and seminary professors, they answer questions like: What are the qualifications for pastoral ministry? How do you know if you’re called to ministry? When should you go to seminary? And how can we encourage those in our midst we think may be called?
10/30/2022 • 42 minutes, 38 seconds
The Forgotten Discovery of the Reformation
During the Reformation, “the priesthood of all believers”—considered one of the most important discoveries of the Reformation—countered the clericalism of Rome and restored the dignity of ordinary vocations. So what does the daily office of “Christian” look like today? And how are laypeople meant to engage in the work of ministry? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and special guest Walter Strickland discuss the priesthood of all believers, considering its different expressions and implications in the Reformed, Anglican, Baptist, and Lutheran traditions.
10/23/2022 • 35 minutes, 59 seconds
Your Labor Is Not in Vain
The apostle Paul tells us that in light of Christ’s resurrection and in view of our own, our work is not in vain. It has meaning and purpose. So how do we navigate the goodness and the promises of work in the context of a world where sin has plagued our vocations? What does the doctrine of vocation say to a generation of people who are unsatisfied, burning out, and just plain tired? Listen to Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and special guest Walter Strickland continue their discussion of vocation in this episode of White Horse Inn.
10/16/2022 • 36 minutes, 53 seconds
Living Under God’s Pleasure: The Christian Employee
Is there a distinctly Christian way to go about our day jobs? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Walter Strickland consider what makes our work valuable. They challenge the human tendency to search for ultimate significance and satisfaction in our work, pointing listeners to God’s design for believers to live out their vocations under God’s pleasure, in the power of the Spirit, and within the rhythms of work and rest that he provides.
10/9/2022 • 43 minutes, 2 seconds
Called to Work
When we talk about work, it’s easy to jump right to the Fall and consider how work is frustrated by sin. But how does the pre-Fall creation narrative shape our understanding of vocation? And what does that mean for a post-Fall reality? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller are joined by special guest Walter Strickland in a new series examining the doctrine of vocation. This episode looks at the goodness inherent to work, what it looks like to image God in our vocations, and how the Sabbath shapes our approach to the work week.
10/2/2022 • 39 minutes, 52 seconds
What Happened to the Queen of the Sciences?
Concluding our series on the intersection of faith and science, White Horse Inn hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller venture into the social sciences, considering how disciplines like psychology and sociology fit within the Christian faith. As they do, they examine topics like primary and secondary causes, mental illness, and what happens when we have an over-realized eschatology.
9/25/2022 • 34 minutes, 42 seconds
Creation: Miracle and Providence
What happens when our understanding of the Bible’s creation narrative contradicts current scientific theory? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller continue their discussion of faith and science by considering God’s two ways of speaking in creation: divine fiat and providence. As they consider the compatibility of various scientific views with the biblical account, they also outline what is essential for Christians to affirm when it comes to creation.
9/18/2022 • 38 minutes, 43 seconds
Genesis: Just Another Creation Myth?
The first few chapters in Genesis are some of the most hotly debated in Christian circles. What did Moses intend for his readers to understand when he penned the Bible’s creation narrative? What did he know about the creation myths of the surrounding nations, and how might that impact our understanding today? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller model charitable disagreement as they represent and discuss different interpretations of Genesis 1 and 2.
9/11/2022 • 37 minutes, 33 seconds
Is Christianity Opposed to Science?
Though faith and science are often pitted against each other, this wasn’t always the case. In fact, in the Middle Ages, theology was known as “the queen of the sciences.” So, what’s changed? White Horse Inn hosts Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller are kicking off a new series examining the relationship between faith and science. In this episode, they consider the historical relationship between these disciplines, examining what has caused growing skepticism towards the sciences among Christians.
9/4/2022 • 38 minutes, 35 seconds
Recovering the Fear of God in the Church
When we’re living in constant emergency mode, can we turn it all off on Sunday? Can we come together with our different backgrounds and experiences and sing the same songs, hear the same prayers, make the same confession? In this episode, the WHI hosts diagnose the problem underlying the lack of fear of the Lord: a weak view of sin and a mediocre appreciation for God’s holiness. They consider how Sunday worship serves to remind us of who God is and who we are before him. In his church, Christ ministers to us through word and sacrament, and as we lift our eyes to heaven, our sanity can be restored. __________ Throughout the month of August, for a gift of $30 or more, you can get a copy of my newest book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us. To request your copy, go to whitehorseinn.org/fearofgod. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner.
8/28/2022 • 33 minutes, 43 seconds
Overcoming the Fear of the Other
Psalm 27:1 says, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” In this episode, the WHI hosts explore what happens when this verse is not a reality for us. Trapped in a blame game that goes back to the garden, we fear each other—not the Lord. We confuse the kingdom of Christ with Caesar’s Rome and begin to use, exploit, and oppose the “other,” rather than seeing people made in God’s image. But when we live in the fear of the Lord, we in turn love our neighbors, worshipping together in anticipation of the feast around the Lord’s table with the diverse community for whom Christ died—people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. __________ Throughout the month of August, for a gift of $30 or more, you can get a copy of my newest book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us. To request your copy, go to whitehorseinn.org/fearofgod. __________ If you would like to lead a bible study or want a reliable resource to help you study the Bible on your own, consider using Core Bible Studies. Just head over to corechristianity.com/studies.
8/21/2022 • 35 minutes, 16 seconds
Fear Not: Moving From Terror to Trust
All our fears can be encapsulated in three words: security, life, and justification. But the Bible repeatedly tells us, “Fear not!” So how do we live without fear? In this episode, the WHI hosts consider how fear can shift from terror to trust, from law and gospel. They examine the biblical promises that undergird the commands to fear not, celebrating the comfort found in facing our fears united to Christ. __________ If you’ve already picked up Mike’s newest book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us, be sure to get our free study guide to go with it. To request your copy, go to whitehorseinn.org/offers. __________ If you would like to lead a bible study or want a reliable resource to help you study the Bible on your own, consider using Core Bible Studies. Just head over to corechristianity.com/studies
8/14/2022 • 30 minutes, 50 seconds
Losing Our Sanity: What We’re Afraid Of
People today are living in a constant state of fear. The fight or flight instinct has become a routine way of life, subverting fact gathering and fact checking, and causing careful deliberation, logical thought, and empathy towards others to take a holiday. In this first episode discussing Michael Horton’s new book, Recovering Our Sanity: How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us, the WHI hosts consider both the gift of fear and its manipulation. They discuss what we fear and why, and how the gospel of Christ offers an alternate perspective on what threatens us. Michael Horton also reflects on how his emergency heart surgery earlier this year has continued to shape his thoughts on fear and its antidote. __________ Throughout the month of August, for a gift of $30 or more, you can get a copy of my newest book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us. To request your copy, go to whitehorseinn.org/fearofgod. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner.
8/7/2022 • 30 minutes, 5 seconds
Word-Saturated Prayer
Scripture has much to say about prayer, both in its teaching about who God is as the one who enables and receives our prayers, and in the way it gives language for every human circumstance and emotion. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Adriel Sanchez look beyond the Lord’s Prayer to other biblical passages that give shape to how we approach God in prayer, allowing us to communicate with praises, laments, statements of intention, and questions. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner.
7/31/2022 • 29 minutes, 40 seconds
Pitfalls on Our Path to Prayer
Prayer is one of God’s greatest gifts to his people. And it’s also one of our biggest sources of guilt, confusion, and frustration. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Adriel Sanchez talk about some pitfalls on our path to prayer, bringing biblical and theological reflection, help, and wisdom to this area of the Christian life. __________ Get our free download about prayer. Just go to whitehorseinn.org/offers. __________ Sign up for our newsletter and receive our free digital download collection on Justification - whitehorseinn.org/newsletter.
7/24/2022 • 30 minutes, 58 seconds
Our Confessions on Prayer
The different traditions emerging from the Protestant Reformation each bring helpful tools and perspectives to cultivating a life of prayer. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Adriel Sanchez reflect on the differences and similarities regarding prayer within the Anglican, Lutheran, and Presbyterian traditions, sharing how their tradition’s history, liturgy, and resources have shaped their approach to and practice of prayer. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe.
7/17/2022 • 30 minutes, 43 seconds
Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread
Though not a strict model for prayer in all situations, the Lord’s Prayer is a rich resource for learning how to pray—a summary outline given by Jesus as a general guide. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Adriel Sanchez work through the remaining petitions of the Lord’s Prayer and what it means to cast our cares upon the Lord, believing that he cares for us. __________ Get our free download about prayer. Just go to whitehorseinn.org/offers. __________ Sign up for our newsletter and receive our free digital download collection on Justification - whitehorseinn.org/newsletter.
7/10/2022 • 31 minutes, 43 seconds
Our Father in Heaven
Although prayer is something we do, the way we pray reflects our understanding of who God is. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb and Bob Hiller are joined by special guest pastor Adriel Sanchez as they unpack the first part of the Lord’s Prayer, asking questions like, what is the theology that undergirds our practice of prayer? What is the ordinary and gospel-shaped reality of prayer? And what are we actually saying when we pray, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”? __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner.
7/3/2022 • 32 minutes, 54 seconds
Binding the Strongman
Satan is defeated, but he’s clearly still active today. How do we reconcile these two realities? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and David Cassidy conclude our series on spiritual warfare, considering what it looks like to rest in Christ’s victory, stand firm on Christ’s word, and look for Christ’s return. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe. __________ To receive our new book, 30 Years Closer: Essays for a Modern Reformation, for a gift of $50 or more, go to whitehorseinn.org/closer.
6/26/2022 • 31 minutes, 13 seconds
Worship Is Warfare
Having considered Satan’s power and influence today, how do we avoid being gripped by fear? How do we stand firm? How do we fight? In this White Horse Inn episode, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and David Cassidy look at the armor of God and other biblical passages to understand the right posture for Christians as they engage in spiritual warfare. __________ To receive our new book, 30 Years Closer: Essays for a Modern Reformation, for a gift of $50 or more, go to whitehorseinn.org/closer. __________ Sign up for our newsletter and receive our free digital download collection on Justification - whitehorseinn.org/newsletter.
6/19/2022 • 31 minutes, 43 seconds
The Pervasive Influence of Darkness
When we start talking about spiritual warfare, we immediately think of the serpent in the garden, of New Testament confrontations between Jesus and the demon-possessed, and of chaotic exorcisms depicted in TV and movies. But what kind of power does Satan have, and what are we supposed to do about it? On this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and David Cassidy trace the biblical encounters with Satan and consider how he works today, reminding believers to be alert but not afraid. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe. __________ To receive our new book, 30 Years Closer: Essays for a Modern Reformation, for a gift of $50 or more, go to whitehorseinn.org/closer.
6/12/2022 • 31 minutes, 13 seconds
Your Adversary the Devil
Who is the devil? Where does he come from, and how do modern perceptions of him line up with biblical teaching? On this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and special guest Pastor David Cassidy discuss the idea of personified evil and the way caricatures of Satan and his origins have transformed through the ages and are reflected on the pages of Scripture. __________ To receive our new book, 30 Years Closer: Essays for a Modern Reformation, for a gift of $50 or more, go to whitehorseinn.org/closer. __________ Download our free booklet, Can the Devil Read My Mind?, by David Cassidy. Just head over to whitehorseinn.org/subscribe.
6/5/2022 • 30 minutes, 36 seconds
Courage in the Ordinary
Have you noticed that words like “extreme” and “revolutionary” have ironically become part of our “ordinary” vocabulary, even in the world of contemporary Christianity? We’re constantly being encouraged to “transform the world,” to pursue “radical discipleship,” or simply to do “big things for Jesus.” But what is the cost of this continual use of superlatives? The hosts, with the help of Tish Harrison Warren, discuss this issue and point to a recovery of “ordinary discipleship” in a world of hype (originally aired 09-01-13). __________ To receive our new book, 30 Years Closer: Essays for a Modern Reformation, for a gift of $50 or more, go to whitehorseinn.org/closer. __________ Listen to our extended length series, Ordinary, for free! Just head over to whitehorseinn.org/offers.
5/29/2022 • 29 minutes, 29 seconds
The Given Life
Sometimes the church hinders our experience of the good life by packing our schedules, heaping on burdens, or trying to be cool and relevant. But the church can also help us cultivate the good life by pointing us to a kingdom that we receive—not build. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller celebrate the ordinary ministry of Word and Sacrament that leads to rest and flourishing, and they unpack how the gifts of justification and union with Christ contribute to our experience of the good life now. __________ Listen to our extended length series, Ordinary, for free! Just head over to whitehorseinn.org/offers. __________ To receive our new book, 30 Years Closer: Essays for a Modern Reformation, for a gift of $50 or more, go to whitehorseinn.org/closer.
5/22/2022 • 31 minutes, 53 seconds
Made for Another World
This series has helped us to see that we can enjoy God’s creational gifts without guilt. But God also gives us eschatological gifts that prepare us for our heavenly home. So what happens when we have an over-realized or under-realized eschatology? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller talk about life between the “now” and the “not yet,” considering the role of virtue in the Christian life and how the law gives shape to the good life as we’re conformed to the image of Christ. __________ To receive our new book, 30 Years Closer: Essays for a Modern Reformation, for a gift of $50 or more, go to whitehorseinn.org/closer. __________ Listen to our extended length series, Ordinary, for free! Just head over to whitehorseinn.org/offers.
5/15/2022 • 31 minutes, 37 seconds
Finding God in the Muck and the Mire
In a life filled with suffering, is a good life truly possible? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller ask the hard questions about sin, suffering, and real life. Just because this life can be hard doesn’t mean that we should embrace a dualism that places the body and soul in opposition to each other. Instead, we need to acknowledge a certain realism about how the world functions on this side of the fall, being honest about what is evil—and even just disappointing. We can do so by clinging to God’s sovereignty in the midst of our suffering, his creativity to use it for our good, and his kindness to give us tangible good gifts even now, while we look with hope towards the future glory that awaits. ________ Listen to our extended length series, Ordinary, for free! Just head over to whitehorseinn.org/offers. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe.
5/8/2022 • 33 minutes, 14 seconds
What Is the Good Life?
Do you ever feel behind in life? In a culture that endlessly calls us to hustle, climb, and improve, we’re bound to feel guilty for settling with “ordinary.” But is the good life built from all that striving? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller consider what kind of lives we should expect according to Scripture. How is our experience of the good life shaped by our own experiences as sinful humans who now live under God’s benediction in Christ? They examine goodness as something received from God, how the good life can be the given life, and how this all relates to loving God and our neighbors. __________ Listen to our extended length series, Ordinary, for free! Just head over to whitehorseinn.org/offers.
5/1/2022 • 31 minutes, 18 seconds
Life in His Name
If Christ really rose from the dead, then it must have major ramifications for our lives. So how does the resurrection shape us? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Doug Powell discuss the impact of Christ’s resurrection at the cosmic level, institutional level, and personal level. They consider what it means that Christ is victorious over Satan, sin, hell, death, and the grave; they unpack what it means to say “Jesus is Lord”; and they celebrate our ultimate comfort and hope found in the risen Christ. __________ Download our free PDF about the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ written by Justin Holcomb. Just head over to whitehoseinn.org/offers. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe.
4/24/2022 • 33 minutes, 12 seconds
Christ Is Risen Indeed
What kind of sermon did you hear today? In this episode of White Horse Inn, seasoned pastors Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, and Bob Hiller are joined once again by apologist Doug Powell to discuss the essential elements of an Easter sermon—and describe some of the “misses” you might have experienced. This Easter, they hope you heard a sermon that was historical, preaching good news from outside of you; that was grounded in the Scriptures, showing Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Testament; that was applicable, demonstrating how Christ’s resurrection is for you; and that mirrored Christ’s loving accommodation for skeptics and doubters. __________ To get our new Reformation Essentials collection head over to whitehorseinn.org/collection. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner.
4/17/2022 • 33 minutes, 59 seconds
Resurrection Objections
Having established the minimal facts of the resurrection, how do we respond when people suggest alternative theories for explaining the missing body, the empty tomb, and Christ’s post-resurrection appearances? Did Jesus simply faint on the cross? Was his body stolen? Did the women go to the wrong tomb? Did the disciples make up the resurrection story, or did it grow and develop over the years? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Doug Powell evaluate these common objections and more, helping you prepare for discussions around the table this Easter. __________ Download our free PDF about the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ written by Justin Holcomb. Just head over to whitehoseinn.org/offers. __________ To get our new Reformation Essentials collection head over to whitehorseinn.org/collection.
4/10/2022 • 32 minutes, 44 seconds
The Six Minimal Facts
“If Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain,” writes the apostle Paul (1 Cor. 15:14), situating the resurrection as the central claim of Christianity—the foundation for the entire biblical worldview. But why is it so important? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Eric Landry, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Doug Powell discuss Christ’s resurrection as a unique claim among world religions. They also work through “The Minimal Facts” put forward by Gary Habermas, equipping listeners with an agreed-upon baseline for proving the historicity of the resurrection and evaluating objections.
4/3/2022 • 32 minutes, 20 seconds
The Baptist Tradition With Guest Dr. Matthew Hall
This series has highlighted the substantial overlap between the traditions seated at the White Horse Inn table while also honestly examining the differences between them. In this episode, Justin Holcomb sits down with Dr. Matthew Hall, provost and senior vice president for academic administration of The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. They look at the historical development and complexity within the Baptist tradition and what it means to be confessional and congregational. In the process, they also explore and celebrate how traditions with significant differences on polity and the sacraments can join forces in serving, caring, and praying for each other in gospel ministry. __________ If you would like to download our free Doctrine Quiz just go to whitehorseinn.org/offers. __________ To get our new Reformation Essentials collection head over to whitehorseinn.org/collection.
3/27/2022 • 39 minutes, 25 seconds
The Reformed Tradition
Michael Horton walked the path into Reformed theology through the book of Romans. As he studied Paul’s words, he was gripped by the doctrine of justification by faith alone, and by other distinctives he would come to understand as Reformed—high views of creation, the Fall, the dignity of humanity, God’s sovereign will, and God’s mercy. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Justin Holcomb interviews Michael Horton about the Reformed tradition. They consider how the creeds and confessions testify to Scripture’s clarity and provide the basis for a truly catholic faith, and they challenge listeners to resist prioritizing theological precision at the expense of love and unity. __________ To get our new Reformation Essentials collection head over to whitehorseinn.org/collection. __________ If you would like to download our free Doctrine Quiz just go to whitehorseinn.org/offers.
3/20/2022 • 28 minutes, 56 seconds
The Lutheran Tradition
When it comes to discussing our differences, there is a lot of value in a genuine conversation. Rooted in humility, we have much to learn from each other, and we may find we have more in common than we realize. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton interviews Pastor Bob Hiller about the distinctives within the Lutheran tradition. As they discuss the great debates that often arise between Lutherans and Presbyterians, they also explore the pastoral nature of Lutheran theology. Holding firm to the promise of Christ’s forgiveness. the Lutheran tradition aims to combat theological systems threatening to destroy the Christian’s comfort—an endeavor esteemed by all Reformation traditions and joined by all who sit around the White Horse Inn table. __________ To get our new Reformation Essentials collection head over to whitehorseinn.org/collection. __________ If you would like to download our free Doctrine Quiz just go to whitehorseinn.org/offers.
3/13/2022 • 29 minutes, 36 seconds
The Anglican Tradition
For 30 years, White Horse Inn has aimed at conversational theology, exploring a shared Reformation history and defending a common set of convictions. But what are the differences we bring to the table? In this episode of our new series, “Different, Not Divided,” Michael Horton sits down with Justin Holcomb to learn about the Anglican tradition—its history, confession, and polity, and what led Holcomb to be ordained as an Anglican minister. He shares some of the challenges within the Anglican tradition while also celebrating its global reach, commitment to Scripture, and application of the gospel through Thomas Cranmer’s “comfortable words.” __________ If you would like to download our free Doctrine Quiz just go to whitehorseinn.org/offers. __________ To get our new Reformation Essentials collection head over to whitehorseinn.org/collection.
3/6/2022 • 35 minutes, 49 seconds
Faithful Endurance
The famous “Hall of Faith” is found in Hebrews 11, but how did these heroes possess such great faith? And what exactly is faith? How is it related to obedience and endurance and fruitfulness? In this final episode of our White Horse Inn series examining the book of Hebrews, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Nick Brennan look at the last few chapters of the book and its call for perseverance. They consider the role of suffering and discipline in believers’ sanctification and reflect on our role as priests, offering our whole lives to God as a sacrifice of praise. __________ Our new booklet, “The ‘Better’ is the Best,” is a collection of essays that will help you dive deeper into the book of Hebrews. Just head over to whitehoseinn.org/offers. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe.
2/27/2022 • 31 minutes, 43 seconds
Jesus, Our Hope
The Book of Hebrews contains some of the most difficult passages in Scripture—warnings that cause people to feel fearful and lack assurance. How—in the face of such grave warnings—is Jesus our hope? In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Nick Brennan look closely at two particular warning passages in Hebrews 5–6 and 10, considering what the writer intended and what implications these passages have for the church today. In the process, they discuss some differences between the Lutheran and Reformed traditions, our shared commitment to the gathered assembly of God’s people and the ministry of Word and Sacrament, and the need we all have for the gospel of Christ. __________ Our new booklet, “The ‘Better’ is the Best,” is a collection of essays that will help you dive deeper into the book of Hebrews. Just head over to whitehoseinn.org/offers. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe.
2/20/2022 • 35 minutes, 14 seconds
Jesus, Our Great High Priest
Why would you want to go back to types and shadows when the real thing is here? The author of Hebrews poses this question as he highlights Jesus’s work as our great high priest—a priest who passed not just through an earthly curtain but through a heavenly one, who descends from the line of Melchizedek, who far surpasses the priesthood of the Jerusalem temple. In this episode of White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Nick Brennan continue their discussion of the book of Hebrews, grounding our confidence in Christ’s work on our behalf, by which we’re able to draw near to God’s throne of grace. __________ Our new booklet, “The ‘Better’ is the Best,” is a collection of essays that will help you dive deeper into the book of Hebrews. Just head over to whitehoseinn.org/offers. __________ Our magazine, Modern Reformation, has been newly redesigned and it comes with a special price: whatever you can afford! To find out more, head over to modernreformation.org/subscribe.
2/13/2022 • 29 minutes, 17 seconds
Jesus Is Better
What’s better than Jesus? What about the angels, Moses, the Levitical priesthood, and the blessings and promises of the old covenant? In the first few chapters of Hebrews, the author highlights these contrasts, pointing to the glory of Christ and his work on our behalf. His claim that Jesus is better sets the groundwork for what the rest of the sermon unpacks: a better covenant with better promises and a better mediator. In this new White Horse Inn series examining the book of Hebrews, Michael Horton is joined by Justin Holcomb, Bob Hiller, and Nick Brennan.
2/6/2022 • 30 minutes, 31 seconds
Soli Deo Gloria
According to Robert Schuller, the problem with the reformation was that it was God-centered rather than man-centered. We live an age of self-esteem and self-help. Therapy has triumphed over theology. On this episode of the White Horse Inn our hosts help to recover the reformation slogan, “to God alone be the glory.”(originally aired 01-27-91)
1/30/2022 • 37 minutes, 31 seconds
Justice & Mercy
Scripture teaches that God is just. He must punish sin. On this episode of the White Horse Inn our hosts help us to understand that God’s mercy must be understood against the background of his justice and wrath in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ (originally aired 01-20-91).
1/23/2022 • 32 minutes, 57 seconds
The Sovereignty of God
Scripture teaches that God is sovereign. Yet many struggle both to understand and reconcile God’s sovereignty and human responsibility. On this episode of the White Horse Inn our hosts explain that God’s sovereignty taught in scripture helps us to recognize God’s transcendent glory reflected in his works of providence and salvation (originally aired 1-13-91).
1/16/2022 • 33 minutes, 40 seconds
The Holiness of God
We live in an age where God is trivialized. God is seen as a friend, one whom I can have a personal relationship with, and although God is a friend of sinners, has the church lost sight of the significance of this truth? Has the Evangelical Church taken God’s kindness for granted? On this episode of the White Horse Inn our hosts discuss the Holiness of God showing that though God is a friend to sinners who have trusted in Jesus for their salvation, God is still Holy and wrathful against sin. It is only when we recognize that God is holy that we can see his amazing grace toward sinners who trust in Jesus (originally aired 01-06-91).
1/9/2022 • 32 minutes, 16 seconds
Reforming the Church
On this classic episode of the White Horse Inn, Michael Horton, Kim Riddlebarger and Rod Rosenbladt discuss many of the problems facing contemporary Christianity and call for a return to the insights of the sixteenth-century Protestant Reformation. In particular, they focus on the five “Solas”: Scripture alone, Christ alone, grace alone, faith alone, and glory to God alone. This episode was the eighth program of our weekly live broadcast, which began on KKLA in Los Angeles in early November of 1990 (originally aired 12-30-1990).
1/2/2022 • 32 minutes, 56 seconds
The Jewish Gospels
WHI Classic • There was a time in which Judaism & Christianity had many more beliefs in common. As it turns out, many ancient Jews before the time of Christ actually expected the coming of a divine messiah who would appear in bodily form in order to atone for sin and accomplish redemption. In fact, some Jews even spoke of this messiah as a kind of second divinity who was distinct from the Ancient of Days, and whose relationship to God was like that of a son to a father. Shane Rosenthal discusses these issues and more with Daniel Boyarin, author of The Jewish Gospels, and John Ronning, author of The Jewish Targums and John’s Logos Theology (originally aired Jan 27, 2019).
12/29/2021 • 42 minutes, 49 seconds
Alistair Begg on Life in a Post-Christian World
In our increasingly secular culture, Christians are beginning to feel like strangers and aliens in their own land. Perhaps, however, we’ve felt much too at home in this world in the first place. As it becomes more apparent that we live in Babylon, confusing the gospel with the American dream may become less plausible. But will we be able to stand if and when our faith is tested? On this episode, Shane Rosenthal talks with Alistair Begg about the insights into these issues he has gleaned from his study of the book of Daniel. Alistair recently published a book on this topic titled Brave by Faith: God-sized Confidence in a Post-Christian World. __________ For a gift of $50 or more, request your copy of Michael Horton’s new book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us, go to whitehorseinn.org/fearofgod. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner.
12/26/2021 • 30 minutes, 27 seconds
Joy to The World!
When the angels appeared before the shepherds in Bethlehem, they came bringing a message of “good news” rather than tips for improving our life or the world around us. On this program, the hosts will discuss the nature of the Christian gospel and its roots in the Old Testament promises of a coming redemption. They’ll also discuss the relationship between good news and the “great joy” that we experience in response (originally aired 12-24-17). __________ For a gift of $50 or more, request your copy of Michael Horton’s new book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us, go to whitehorseinn.org/fearofgod. __________ Become a partner and you will receive all of the White Horse Inn extended episodes, access to our extensive archive as well as a subscription to our magazine, Modern Reformation. Head over to whitehorseinn.org/podcastpartner.
12/22/2021 • 34 minutes, 12 seconds
The Theology of Christmas Carols
Have you ever taken the time to really listen and think about the lyrics of the various Christmas carols that you hear on the radio and in the shopping malls at this time of year? On this program, the hosts will do just that as they consider popular songs like Jingle Bells and Santa Claus is Coming to Town, to more traditional carols such as Away in a Manger and Silent Night. Finally, they’ll explore the theology expressed in the world’s first Christmas carols recorded for us in the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke (originally aired 12-18-16). __________ Sign up for our Free Account and gain access to the 12 most recent extended-length episodes of the White Horse Inn as well as other free content. Just head over to whitehorseinn.org/account. __________ Sign up now to join Michael Horton and others for one of our two-day Modern Reformation Weekend Conferences. To sign up, head over to modernreformation.org/events.
12/19/2021 • 30 minutes, 19 seconds
What Child Is This?
“What child is this, who laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping?” This wonderful hymn reminds us every Christmas of the sublime mystery of the incarnation. But what does it really mean to confess that Jesus is God in human flesh? On this edition of the program, the hosts will continue their discussion of The Meaning of Christmas by taking a look at the two natures of Christ and his threefold office as prophet, priest, and king (originally aired 12-17-17). ___________ For a gift of $50 or more, request your copy of Michael Horton’s new book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us, go to whitehorseinn.org/fearofgod. __________ Sign up now to join Michael Horton and others for one of our two-day Modern Reformation Weekend Conferences. To sign up, head over to modernreformation.org/events.
12/15/2021 • 30 minutes, 16 seconds
The Theology of Christmas Movies
What’s the true spirit of Christmas? That’s the question at the heart of countless Christmas movies that clutter the airwaves and cable listings at this time of year. But the answer one typically receives from films of this genre is not merely a departure from the biblical narrative, but rather is a kind of anti-gospel that turns our attention completely away from the redemption provided by the incarnate Son of God. The hosts will discuss this topic by walking through memorable lines from movies such as A Christmas Carol, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, and many others(originally aired 12-11-16). __________ For a gift of $50 or more, request your copy of Michael Horton’s new book, Recovering Our Sanity - How the Fear of God Conquers the Fears That Divide Us, go to whitehorseinn.org/fearofgod. __________ Sign up for our newsletter and receive our free digital download collection on Justification - whitehorseinn.org/newsletter.