Theology Unplugged

In session 65 of Through Theology in a Year, titled The Church Fathers and Authority, we explored how early church fathers like Tertullian, Irenaeus, Chrysostom, Augustine, and Athanasius understood the concept of authority. Together, we examined their balanced perspectives, recognizing Scripture as the ultimate authority while also valuing the significant role of tradition. By analyzing their wri...

In this special edition, we step outside Through Theology in a Year to explore something different. First, we tackle Christianity versus other religions-what makes the Christian faith distinct in a world of competing beliefs? Then, we dive into an exciting new journey: Church Fathers in a Year, where we'll uncover the rich writings of early Christian thinkers and their relevance today. Finally, we...

In this episode, I walk through the Development of Doctrine chart step by step, exploring how theology has progressed throughout church history. We discuss why doctrinal development is inevitable and how understanding this progression is essential for engaging theology today. While presenting an irenic perspective on various approaches, I argue that Sola Scriptura is the most natural and logical o...

In this session of Through Theology in a Year (TTY), we dive into The Doctrinal Development Debate. How have Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Eastern Orthodox believers viewed the development of doctrine throughout history? This session is all about tracing our doctrinal DNA, understanding how theology has unfolded over time, and deciding how much room there is for growth within the bounds of Scr...

In this episode of Theology Unplugged, we're diving into the four types of doubt that can challenge your faith: intellectual, existential, temperamental, and obsessive-compulsive doubt (scrupulicity). Whether you're wrestling with big questions about the resurrection and Scripture, feeling a shift in how you believe, struggling with a melancholic temperament, or experiencing obsessive doubt that k...

In session 62 of Through Theology in a Year, we'll explore theological authority by examining 'Prima Scriptura' and 'Sola Fide.' We'll discuss the meaning of 'Prima Scriptura,' which sees Scripture as primary but in dialogue with tradition and reason, and 'Sola Fide,' the Protestant belief that salvation comes by faith alone. Additionally, we'll touch on how different Christian traditions-Roman Ca...

Description: In this special After Hours edition of Through Theology in a Year, part of Theology Unplugged, I take a closer look at the popular video "Why Be Catholic and Not Just Christian?" by Ascension Presents featuring Father Mike Schmitz. In the video, Father Schmitz argues that the key difference between Catholicism and other Christian traditions comes down to one thing: authority. Join me...

In this episode of Through Theology in a Year, we delve deep into the Roman Catholic view of authority. We explore its historical roots, unpack the concept of Sola Ecclesia or dual-source theory, and discuss the significance of Big-T and little-t tradition. We also examine the regula fidei, the Vincentian Canon, and the deposit of faith, all while breaking down the three-legged stool of Catholic a...

In this episode, I dive into Mar Mari Emmanuel's YouTube video, Mar Mari's Message to Protestants. Together, we unpack his critique of Protestantism, his evaluation of Martin Luther, and his reflections on the thousands of Protestant denominations. As a former bishop in the Assyrian Church of the East (now excommunicated), Mar Mari brings a unique perspective, but one that raises questions and inc...

Welcome to Season Two of Through Theology in a Year! This first episode dives into Bibliology and Hermeneutics, setting the stage for a deep exploration of the authority and interpretation of Scripture. I discuss the critical importance of understanding Sola Scriptura and how it emerged from the heart of the Reformation. Drawing from the powerful story of Martin Luther, we explore his Anfechtung-h...

In this episode, I clear up the misconceptions about the Holy Spirit being just some ethereal or vague force. Instead, I explore the Holy Spirit as a concrete, persevering presence that guides us to Christ and gives us assurance of salvation. Using a childhood cakewalk illustration and a map metaphor, I unpack how the Spirit works in our faith journeys, even amidst doubts and deconstruction. Join...

Welcome to Theology Unplugged: Question and Answer Friday! In this episode, we tackle some of the toughest theological questions sent in by listeners. We're diving into topics like the early church's stance on baptism, what Paul meant when he said Jesus "became sin," and whether Christian Universalism holds up biblically. Plus, we'll explore the role of baptism in salvation-does Scripture teach it...

Join Michael Patton on Theology Unplugged as he shares his raw and unfiltered story of faith. From a childhood shaped by a mother's love for the Lord, Michael took a drastic turn, living a life far from faith-a path filled with reckless and chaotic choices. Yet, through a remarkable transformation, he found himself at seminary, attending Chuck Swindoll's church, and eventually becoming a pastor, w...

In this episode of Donald Trump Through Different Eyes, we delve into the lives of history's disruptors-figures like King Richard the Lionheart, Donald Trump, and Martin Luther-who were tailor-made for their turbulent times. Though flawed, these leaders broke norms, dismantled systems, and carved out legacies that still influence us today. Join us as we explore what fueled their ambition, how thei...

In this episode of Question and Answer Thursday, we're diving into some big questions. We talk about what it means if we're not exactly excited for Jesus to come back, why trusting God is so hard when life gets messy, why Jesus was rejected in His hometown, the mystery of evil spirits in the Bible, and why we tend to hide our faith even when Jesus told us to let our light shine. Get ready for some...

Join me as I dive into Tucker Carlson's intriguing claim of encountering a demon, shared over on christianitiesmovies.com. Today, we're exploring his spiritual journey and reflecting on the deeper significance of his experience. We'll connect this to 1 Kings chapter 22, where a deceiving spirit is sent to mislead King Ahab, and ask: could this be a modern parallel, or is there more to the story? I...

Celebrating the Reformation's 507th birthday, we're diving into the top 5 lesser-known facts about this pivotal event that reshaped history. From empowering laypeople to revolutionizing religious art, let's explore the enduring impact of the Reformation. Join us as we wish the Reformation a happy birthday and reflect on its profound legacy! We'd love to hear your thoughts on the Reformation's impa...

Step back to 2007 with this classic Theology Unplugged Question and Anaswer session! Rome Dycke, Greg Cromartie, and Michael Patton dive into listener-submitted questions, tackling topics on faith, doctrine, and theology in their engaging and thoughtful style. Whether exploring the mysteries of belief or addressing contemporary concerns, they bring clarity and insight to each question. Tune in for...

In this episode of Theology Unplugged, Michael Patton takes on the "Hopeless 30,000 Denomination" apologetic often used by Catholics to challenge Protestantism. He argues that this approach begs the question and points out that Roman Catholicism is actually just one of those 30,000 denominations. By examining church history and Scripture, Michael guides us on how to find the essentials of the Chri...

Join Michael Patton, Greg CroMarty, and Rhome Dyck as they delve into the intriguing question of the destiny of the unevangelized. In this two-part classic episode from 2006, they explore the different perspectives within Christianity and how evangelicals are called to approach this complex issue. Discover the variety of options and the stance of different traditions in this thought-provoking disc...

In this episode of Theology Unplugged, join Michael Patton as he responds to a video from Capturing Christianity featuring Dr. Joshua Sijuwade. Dr. Sijuwade claims to have a new way to understand the Trinity, challenging common misconceptions. Michael addresses these assertions, cautioning against oversimplified explanations that verge on tritheism. He methodically debunks popular illustrations of...

In this Theology Unplugged classic episode, Michael Patton, Rhome Dyke, and Greg Promarty take a deep dive into the key differences and similarities between Catholics and Protestants. Originally recorded in 2006-2007, this long-form discussion covers a range of theological issues, culminating in the two most important distinctions at the end. Whether you're exploring these topics for the first tim...

In this episode of "Theology Unplugged," Michael Patton delves into two of the most controversial issues in the Church today. First, we explore Romans chapter 9, where Michael presents an argument for Unconditional Election. Then, we tackle 1 Timothy chapter 2, discussing the role of women in teaching, from a Complementarian perspective. Join us for this thought-provoking Question and Answer sessi...

Join us as we dive deep into the question: Why couldn't Esau repent in Hebrews 12:17? Explore the fascinating context behind Esau's rejection, uncover the meaning of his actions, and understand what the Bible says about repentance and blessing. Was Esau truly seeking repentance, or was he after something else? Find out how this passage influences our understanding of faith, sin, and God's forgiven...

Join us for a deep dive into the archives of Theology Unplugged as Michael Patton, Rhome Dyck, and Greg Cromarty engage in a thought-provoking discussion on Matthew 24:36. Explore the challenging passage where Jesus speaks of not knowing the day or hour of His return, and the implications it has for our understanding of Christ's dual nature. Join the conversation in the comments below. We'd love t...