The Hammer Podcast

In this episode, Pastor Mike defines Amillennialism and some of its variations, graciously discussing some benefits and some biblical difficulties. Why does any of this matter? Pastor Mike goes over the purpose of our latest series. He talks about the importance of all the different views meeting together in the public square to stand up for truth. Next Mike explores general similarities between t...

In this episode, Pastor Mike continues discussing some of the difficulties with postmillennialism. How is one to deal with the suffering passages (especially in Thessalonians and Peter) if they were fulfilled in 70 AD? Three major texts create an exegetical problem for this view: 1) Revelation 19, 2) Matthew 24, and 3) 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Pastor Mike examines each...

In this episode, Pastor Mike defines postmillennialism and we discuss why some are inclined toward this eschatology of hope. What is the impact of Doug Wilson and James White on this view? How has that created a revival in this eschatological viewpoint, especially as it relates to the culture war? As an eschatology of hope, does that mean variations of the other views are not hopeful? Is postmille...

In this episode, Pastor Mike gives an update on the ongoing investigation into the hacked episode. Then we turn our attention to eschatology and cultural engagement. Are these two things inseparably linked? What about Augustine? Was he really some version of a premillennialist? How long did he hold that view? When and why did he change it? Was it because of Origen’s (the heretic) allegories or for...

In this episode, Pastor Mike talks about early church history and the millennium. How should we understand church history? Is it on par with scripture, or should we be critical of what is said and why it was said? What did Papias, Polycarp, and Irenaeus say about the millennium? What about Origen and Augustine? Is there a correct way to deduce the words these men have said? What can we learn about...

In this episode, Pastor Mike introduces our new series “Eschatology and Everyday Life.” What is the goal of this series? Should all Christians engage the culture or is it just limited to one eschatological position? Is eschatology a primary doctrine, like the virgin birth? If not, why even study it? What should be our primary focus in studying this topic? What is the balance between systematic the...

In this episode, Pastor Mike talks about the opposition to and support of the virgin conception and birth of Jesus. Yes, it really does matter! Mike explains why as we discuss the importance of this doctrine in our evangelism and church life. How do you teach this Divine truth to your children? Can you use Christmas as a means to that end? What about Christmas? Should Christians celebrate it? Why...

In this episode, Pastor Mike discusses the death and resurrection of Jonah. This pre-sermon podcast gives Hammer Heads a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the prep for this week’s sermon and the issue at hand. What does Jesus mean when he says the last sign He will give is that of Jonah? Did Jonah really die, or was he alive and well inside the sea monster? What does this mean for us as we understand...

In this episode, Pastor Mike talks about the recent criticisms of Doug Wilson and the Moscow Mojo. Kevin DeYoung, Jim Hamilton and Denny Burke have recently escalated the alarms regarding Wilson and company. During No Quarter November, DeYoung released an article articulating specific concerns. Are these concerns valid? What is going on with the recent fuss around Moscow? If we are in a culture wa...

The “Hacked” episode. Did you miss us last week? Foul play was afoot, we suspect Arminians are to blame for a host of reasons. Tune in an find out about the ongoing investigation into the “matter.” In this episode, Pastor Mike talks about Isaiah 53. As it one of the richest and most important passages in the Bible, we see what it means for Christ to be the Man of Sorrows. 1. Isaiah 53 is the most...

In this episode, Pastor Mike deals with preparing to share in Christ’s sufferings. He even touches on testosterone levels and how those might be connected to our stamina for persecution. 1. Why did you feel compelled to preach about persecution and sharing in Christ’s sufferings? 2. How does our society exhibit an intentional lowering of testosterone? And how does this relate to the whole “toxic m...

In this episode, Pastor Mike talks about “emotional hermeneutics” and its impact on eschatology and other doctrines. 1. What are the essentials of eschatology? (What must we believe to be orthodox?) 2. What are examples of emotional hermeneutics?   -I believe in pre-trib rapture because I don’t want to suffer. -I believe in post-mill because it’s an optimistic system. -I don’t believe in pre-mill...

In this episode, Pastor Mike answers the questions: What role does technology play in shepherding today, particularly as it relates to “wolves in shepherd’s clothing”? Can you talk about a shepherd’s knowledge & understanding of current events? Is it important? With limited time, how can a shepherd keep up with events? How can a shepherd keep from following a “wrong” narrative? What role does...

In this episode, Pastor Mike takes a break from the normal format and dives into the current conflict in Israel. How should Christians view the present dynamics? What should be our consideration, in light of Genesis 12 and Romans 11? Theologically, how should believers understand the present-day church’s relationship to national Israel? TUNE in now!

In this episode, Pastor Mike talks about the desperation we see in Jairus and the woman with a discharge. How do you approach Jesus? Is it with humility or pride? What can we learn from these two miracles in Matthew? For the Inquisition, Mike answers how Christians should think about the conflict going on in Israel right now. TUNE in now!

In this episode, we took the podcast on the road to the annual Pillar Church Planting network conference. Pastor Mike discusses how churches partnering together further advances the Gospel! How is the Pillar network serving Baptist churches to foster and build those connections? What are the boundaries of healthy relationships between churches? When does it become necessary to draw a line and not...

In this episode, Pastor Mike discusses why Jesus hung with sinners and how that gave the SBI great heartburn. What can we learn from Jesus about how we are to engage the culture around us? What does Jesus mean when He talks about taxes? For the Inquisition: In light of Jesus eating with tax collectors and prostitutes, how does this square up with the admonition not to give the appearance of evil?...

In this episode, Pastor Mike discusses what it looks like to desire Jesus. Are you like the friends who entered through the roof to see Jesus, or the SBI sent under false pretense to find Jesus and entrap him? And for the inquisition: Did Paul ever see Jesus before the Damascus road? TUNE in now!

In this episode, Pastor Mike discusses the perpetual failure of Satan’s attempts to stop the Messiah, further highlighting God’s supremacy in all areas of life! How does Satan’s defeat at Calvary translate to our daily walk? What are the cultural ramifications of this truth? TUNE in now!

In this episode, Pastor Mike examines Jesus’ interaction with the demons who possessed two men and their dramatic exit when they took over 2,000 swine! What can we learn about Jesus from this event? How does that affect our lives today? TUNE in now!

In this episode, Pastor Mike examines Jesus’ calming of the storm. What can we learn from this event that will help us in our walk with Christ? TUNE in now!