The Reformed Rookie Podcast

God & Government 16.05.2026 54min

What does the bible teach about God & Government?

Ephesians 1:11 Inheritance 12.05.2026 54min

This bible study delves deeply into Ephesians 1, exploring the profound theological concepts of God's grace, predestination, adoption, redemption, and the unity of believers in Christ. Pastor Anthony Uvenio emphasizes that believers receive *every* spiritual blessing in Christ, not a "second blessing," and outlines a structured Bible study method. A core theme is the meaning of "in him," defined as the fundamental, covenantal environment for Christian life, signifying union with Christ through the Spirit. This union is presented as an unbreakable, permanent belonging, sealed by Christ's blood. The discussion also touches on the practical implications of this relationship, including how it should govern all aspects of life and relationships, particularly marriage.The study further addresses the purpose of troubles, explaining that God uses them to shape believers for His glory, not because tragedies are inherently good. It highlights that believers are part of God's grand story, and their lives serve as a testimony to His work. The concept of "inheritance" is explored, revealing that believers both receive an inheritance from God and are themselves God's inheritance. This mutual belonging is underscored by scriptural references and the role of the Holy Spirit as a guarantee.A significant portion is dedicated to understanding "predestination," defining it as God's act of determining beforehand, not by chance but by sovereign decision. The speaker clarifies that God's predestination is not based on human free will, which is deemed inconsistent, but on God's unchanging will and purpose to conform believers to the image of His Son. #christianity #theology #ephesians #predestination #salvation #godswill #biblestudy #faith #grace #inheritance www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Linchpin: 1 Cor 15:3-5 07.04.2026 40min

The linchpin of Christianity

Titus 3:8c "Excellent and Profitable" 03.04.2026 49min

The Book of Titus emphasizes that sound doctrine leads to sound living, urging believers to devote themselves to good works, which benefit both the church and the world. Christianity has historically influenced culture positively, impacting human rights, dignity, equality, science, medicine, arts, music, and education. Good works serve as a witness, model, sign of purity, devotion, and mark of salvation, taking place in the church, home, and world. Even atheist historian Tom Holland acknowledges that Western secular values are rooted in Christian theology and morality, attributing societal improvements to Jesus and Christianity.Christianity's impact includes the radical idea of every person bearing God's image and having equal worth, leading to modern human rights, sanctity of life, and protections for the vulnerable. Voices must be loud and persistent to protect these values, speaking out and influencing society. Pre-Christian societies lacked pity and mercy, but Christianity revolutionized Western ethics, emphasizing humility and sacrifice. The U.S. Declaration of Independence reflects the Christian idea that rights come from God, not humans. Christianity led to the abolition of slavery, end of gladiatorial games/infanticide, and transatlantic slave trade, with figures like William Wilberforce citing biblical equality.Christianity elevated women and marriage, rejecting the treatment of women as property and promoting mutual dignity. Florence Nightingale's faith-driven reforms gave women professional healthcare roles. Early Christians built institutions to minister to the marginalized, with 9/10 of the largest charities being faith-based. Saint Basil founded the Basilica, the first large-scale hospital complex, which became a model for Western hospitals. Medieval Christian scholars founded Europe's universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Paris, and Bologna, to study God's rational creation. Harvard College was founded to advance learning and train Christian ministers.Christianity impacted the rise of modern science, with the Scientific Revolution dominated by devout Christians like Johannes Kepler, Isaac Newton, Michael Faraday, and Louis Pasteur. Christian themes inspired the greatest Western creative works, with artists like Michelangelo and composers like Johann Sebastian Bach and Handel creating works that reflected their faith. Jesus has made a huge impact on culture, permeating everything since the resurrection. The modern calendar is based on Jesus' birth, and even secular thinkers like Ben Shapiro and Bill Maher agree on morality due to Western society's biblical history.Jesus points to internal morality, and He is the subject of more books than any other figure. Tom Holland notes that Westerners are steeped in Christian assumptions, with Jesus's sacrifice at the heart of the revolution. Sociologist Rodney Stark argues that the rise of the West was rooted in Christian theology and belief in a rational God. Believers are called to insist on good works, which are profitable for all mankind, and to extend the kingdom wherever God places them. The church needs correct theology and sound doctrine, putting their hand to the plow and glorifying God. Martin Luther's refusal to recant his beliefs demonstrates the importance of standing firm on the Word of God.#christianity #goodworks #socialimpact #faithandaction #culturalinfluences #biblicalvalues #ethicalliving #kingdombuilding #reformedtheology #servegod www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Titus 3:7 "Justified Heirs" 13.03.2026 39min

Salvation, as explained through Titus 3:7 and related scriptures, is a Trinitarian work of God: the Father appoints, the Son accomplishes, and the Holy Spirit applies. Justification, a key aspect of salvation, means being declared righteous by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works. This righteousness is imputed to believers because Jesus paid the penalty for their sins. Justification is the gateway to everlasting life, leading to sanctification and glorification. Believers are not only forgiven but also installed in God's favor as heirs of eternal life, possessing a guaranteed inheritance and a confident hope anchored in Christ's work. The Holy Spirit seals believers, guaranteeing their salvation and compelling them towards a life of love and obedience, demonstrating a changed heart through actions that glorify God and love their neighbor. This understanding emphasizes that salvation is entirely God's work, received passively through faith, and results in a transformed life.#reformedtheology #justificationbyfaith #salvationbygrace #eternallife #HeirsOfGod #TrinitarianSalvation #holyspirit #newcovenant #FaithAlone #ReformedRookiewww.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Phil 2:17-19 "Timothy" 09.03.2026 40min

The church needs a stated purpose and competent staff, just as Jesus chose and trained disciples. Paul's letter to Philippi encourages the church through hardship, highlighting their maturity, productivity, and faithfulness. Paul's life statement, "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain," reflects a mindset that brings joy even in persecution. Paul introduces Timothy, a trustworthy example for the church to emulate, and explains why he is sending Timothy to Philippi instead of going himself. Timothy's background, upbringing, and proven worth as Paul's companion for about 10 years make him uniquely suited for this mission. Timothy's genuine concern for the welfare of others sets him apart from those who seek their own interests. Paul contrasts Timothy's single-mindedness with others who preach for selfish ambition. Timothy's servanthood, humility, and availability make him an ideal leader. Paul's desire to send Timothy stems from his own imprisonment and the need for someone trustworthy and competent to minister to the Philippians. Christians are called to be lights, equipped with the Word of God, prayer, and the Holy Spirit.#philippians #timothy #paul #discipleship #faith #servantleadership #biblicalexamples #churchministry #reformedtheology #hereiamsendme www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Ephesians 1:9-10 "Mystery United" 07.03.2026 42min

Ephesians 1:9-10

Titus 3:6 "Richly Poured Out" 05.03.2026 40min

This passage from Titus 3:6-7 emphasizes that salvation is not earned through good works, but is a gift of God's mercy, poured out through the Holy Spirit via Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit regenerates and washes believers, uniting them with Christ through faith. This indwelling Spirit, a permanent presence in the New Covenant, empowers believers to obey God's will, unlike the temporary empowerment in the Old Covenant. While good works are a result and evidence of salvation, they do not merit it. The Spirit convicts of sin, leads to repentance, and guarantees our inheritance. Pastor Anthony Uvenio rejects the idea of a "second baptism" of the Spirit, emphasizing that every Christian receives the full measure of the Spirit at salvation. The passage concludes with a call to preach the gospel, pray for obedience, and be zealous for good works, all to the glory of God.#holyspirit #newcovenant #reformedtheology #GraceAlone #FaithAlone #ChristAlone #Titus3 #salvation #IndwellingSpirit #goodworks #5solas www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Phil 2:17-18 Poured Out 02.03.2026 41min

Shining as Lights in a Crooked GenerationThis passage from Philippians (2:17-18) calls believers to persevere in sanctification and shine as lights in a crooked and perverse generation, mirroring Christ's humility and exaltation. Just as Paul was willing to be poured out as a drink offering – a symbol of joy, fellowship, and completion of sacrifice in the Old Testament – Christians are called to a life of devotion and self-sacrifice. This involves avoiding grumbling, living blamelessly, and holding fast to the word of life, even amidst the depravity of the world. This "crooked and perverse generation," a term used by Moses and Jesus to describe rebellious and unbelieving people, is characterized by its rejection of God and its pursuit of evil. However, instead of calling for judgment, Paul urges believers to work out their salvation and live as children of God, finding joy in their relationship with Christ and sharing that joy with others. This echoes the Great Commission, emphasizing the transformative power of the gospel in changing crooked hearts. #philippians #DrinkOffering #CrookedGeneration #PerverseWorld #christianjoy #PaulsSacrifice #reformedtheology #livingsacrifice #lordssupper #gospeltruth www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Titus 3:5 "Washed" 27.02.2026 44min

This bible study centers on the interpretation of Titus 3:5 regarding salvation and the role of baptism. It contrasts "baptismal regeneration," the belief that water baptism is necessary for salvation, with the view that baptism is an outward sign of an inward transformation already accomplished by the Holy Spirit. Pastor Anthony Uvenio argues that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, and that the Holy Spirit's work of regeneration precedes and enables faith and repentance. He explores the symbolism of baptism as identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, and the sealing of the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of salvation. The discussion also contrasts Old Covenant circumcision with New Covenant baptism, emphasizing the inward, spiritual nature of the New Covenant and God's work in changing hearts. The speakers conclude by affirming that it is the Spirit's work alone that changes us.#baptism #regeneration #holyspirit #salvation #faith #grace #theology #reformedtheology #biblestudy #christianity #solafide www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Titus 3:5 "He Saved Us" 24.02.2026 45min

This bible study centers on Titus 3:5, emphasizing that salvation is God's work, not human effort. It highlights humanity's sinful state before salvation – foolish, disobedient, deceived, enslaved to passions, malicious, and hateful. God's goodness and love appeared, saving people through mercy, regeneration, and renewal by the Holy Spirit, poured out through Jesus. This justification by grace makes believers heirs to eternal life. Pastor Anthony Uvenio stresses the importance of acknowledging the depth of one's sin to appreciate God's saving act. Salvation, or "sozo," restores humanity to God, a corporate effort within the body of Christ. Justification is a legal declaration of righteousness received upfront through faith in Jesus, unlike other systems that demand works first. Regeneration is a cosmic salvation, renewing and transforming individuals. God's actions—saving, justifying, regenerating, renewing, and making heirs—elicit gratitude and a surrender to Him. This salvation is rooted in God's character, love, mercy, and grace, not human merit. Even faith itself is a gift. #reformedtheology #titus3 #salvationbygrace #regeneration #HolySpiritRenewal #justification #eternallife #gospeltruth #repentandbelieve #bornagain www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Philippians 2:14-16 "Grumbling and Arguing" 24.02.2026 38min

In this sermon, based on Philippians 2:14 ("Do all things without grumbling or disputing"), Pastor Rich Jensen urges Christians to actively work out their salvation by putting aside sinful attitudes and embracing godly ones. Grumbling and disputing, common sinful behaviors, are likened to idolatry and immorality. Instead, believers are called to be blameless and innocent, shining as lights in a crooked world. This involves imitating Christ, holding fast to the Word of Life, and advancing God's kingdom through preaching, prayer, and righteous living, even amidst struggles. Pastro Jensen emphasizes that salvation is a gift of grace, but Christians should strive for sanctification, avoiding theological compromise and moral failures, and fixing their eyes on Jesus. The sermon concludes with a call to prayer for strength to live out these principles.#philippians2 #grumbling #Disputing #christianliving #sanctification #blameless #innocent #lightoftheworld #reformedtheology #holdfasttotheword www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

John 3:16 "How Do You Get Here" 21.02.2026 45min

This sermon, titled "How Did You Get Here?", Pastor Chris MacDowell uses John 3:1-16 as a foundation to explore the concept of salvation and being "born again." He challenges common misconceptions about how one attains salvation, particularly those rooted in family tradition, sacraments, or personal achievements. Pastor emphasizes that salvation is not earned through good works or adherence to religious rituals, but is a gift from God, made possible through Jesus Christ. Drawing from Old Testament examples and prophecies, Pastor Chris highlights humanity's inherent inability to achieve righteousness on its own and God's initiative in offering a New Covenant. The sermon stresses the importance of recognizing one's need for a Savior, being born again through the Holy Spirit, and living a life transformed by this new relationship with God. It concludes with a call to share the gospel with others, pray for their salvation, and rely on God's power to bring people into His kingdom. #bornagain #salvation #newcovenant #gospel #faith #christianity #repentance #jesuschrist #eternallife #regeneration www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Eph 1:7 "Lavished" 10.02.2026 40min

Ephesians 1:7-8 - Redemption Through Christ's BloodThis passage from Ephesians focuses on redemption through Jesus's blood and the forgiveness of sins, highlighting God's abundant grace. Paul emphasizes that believers are chosen, redeemed, and adopted as sons through Jesus. Redemption, a present possession secured by God, is a gift made possible by Jesus's sacrifice, echoing the Old Testament Passover. Unlike being "bought and paid for" by worldly interests, Christians are purchased by God for good, leading to allegiance to Jesus. This redemption brings forgiveness, removing sin as far as the east is from the west. God's grace, undeserved and limitless, is lavished upon believers, offering wisdom, prudence, and understanding through Christ. True faith motivates love for God and neighbor, demonstrated through actions. Believers are called to live lives of service, rooted in God's Word, building their lives on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ.#ephesians #redemption #forgiveness #grace #jesus #theology #biblestudy #christianity #faith #salvation www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Titus 3:4: Loyal Love 05.02.2026 41min

In Titus 3, Pastor Anthony Uvenio delves into God's goodness and loving-kindness as the means of salvation, contrasting it with humanity's previous state of foolishness and disobedience. Salvation should evoke humility and gratitude, recognizing God's intervention and steadfast love. God's unchanging nature and commitment to sanctification are highlighted as reasons for thanksgiving. Pastor Anthony defines "philanthropy" as God's love for mankind, demonstrated through salvation. God's loyal love (chesed/hesed) is emphasized, portraying God as committed and protective. He encourages showing loyal love to others and being zealous for good works. God's love is demonstrated through Jesus, and believers are called to reflect this love, even in challenging circumstances, trusting in God's strength and guidance. Pastor Anthony emphasizes the importance of imitating God's love through action and deed, working out salvation, and loving one's neighbor. The Father, Son, and Spirit are mentioned in Titus 3:4-5, emphasizing God's active role in salvation. He also encourages listeners to show unexpected love and share the gospel, recognizing that God uses believers to bring love to others. The study references Isaiah, highlighting God's redemption, presence, and promise of steadfast love. Ultimately, believers are called to rejoice, pray, give thanks, and trust in God's strength, motivated by the Spirit of God to exhibit humility, gratitude, and unwavering faith. #reformedtheology #titus3 #godslove #steadfastlove #humility #gratitude #philanthropy #salvation #faith #goodworks

Philippians 2:9: The Exalted Christ 03.02.2026 44min

In this sermon, Pastor Richard Jensen dives deep into the mysterious Melchizedek from the Bible – popping up in Genesis, Hebrews, and Psalms. Turns out, he's a big deal, foreshadowing Jesus's unique priesthood. Abraham even paid him tithes! Pastor Jensen emphasizes that Jesus's priesthood, like Melchizedek's, is granted by God and is forever. Without it, believers are sunk, according to Spurgeon.The sermon then shifts to how Christ's victory is progressive. Think of the Great Commission as Jesus accepting God's offer to rule the nations. The church plays a crucial role, empowered by the Holy Spirit, in fulfilling this promise. They touch on different views, but lean towards an optimistic view of the Church's impact since Jesus's resurrection. Ultimately, Christ will hand everything over to the Father.#melchizedek #jesus #priesthood #reformedtheology #biblestudy #christianity #theology #kingdomofgod #greatcommission #martinluther www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

Titus 3:4 "The Goodness" 22.01.2026 45min

This bible study lesson centers on Titus 3:1-4, contrasting human nature with God's character as revealed through Jesus. Key themes include God's kindness (Christotes), love, and mercy in salvation, emphasizing that salvation is entirely God's work, not human effort. Humility is crucial, stemming from recognizing our dependence on God and His grace. Pastor Anthony Uvenio highlights the importance of good works as an outflow of genuine faith and gratitude for God's unmerited favor. He also emphasizes the Creator-creature distinction, urging listeners to acknowledge God's sovereignty and their dependence on Him. The study concludes with a prayer for help in practicing doxology and being zealous for good works, alongside references to resources like the Reformed Rookie Podcast for further theological learning.#titus #GraceAndKindness #goodworks #humility #salvation #reformedtheology #biblicaltruth #CreatorCreature #dependenceongod #faithinaction www.ReformedRookie.comPodcast: https://anchor.fm/reformedrookieFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheReformedRookie Twitter: https://twitter.com/NYapologistSemper Reformanda!

The Announcement: Luke 2 18.01.2026 36min

The Announcement: Luke 2

Titus 3:3 "Passing Our Days" 14.01.2026 37min

Titus 3:3 "Passing Our Days"

Philippians 2:5-11 "The Mind of Christ" 12.01.2026 38min

Philippians 2:5-11 "The Mind of Christ"