FROM THE HILL: Yarnell discusses natural theology, Ford expounds on apologetics and Augustine, Dockery comments on Iorg appointment
“From the Hill” is a regular series highlighting the work of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Texas Baptist College’s faculty. Check back here regularly to find articles, blogs, podcasts, interviews, and more.
“May Christians Engage in Natural Theology? Karl Barth Contra Mundum” (article on Center for Faith & Culture), written by Malcolm Yarnell, research professor of theology
- “Throughout Christian history, theologians have freely used general revelation to craft some type of natural theology. (“General revelation” is a term which describes how God reveals himself to all people in creation, in history, and through the human conscience. “Natural theology” is theology constructed from that general revelation.) Against the majority of Christian tradition, however, Karl Barth (1886-1968) mounted a full-scale offense against any use of natural theology by denying general revelation.”
“Go Beyond Arguments with Augustine’s Apologetics” (article on The Gospel Coalition), written by Coleman Ford, associate professor of humanities, Texas Baptist College
- “Many Christians think of apologetics as the elite playground for a few select Christian philosophers—and we haven’t been picked for the team. We may appreciate those who do it, and occasionally pass along their YouTube clips, but we think we’ll never be effective at defending the faith. We feel inadequate, uninformed, or ill-equipped for the task of apologetics. Sure, we might read a book about sharing our faith or attend a class on evangelism, but apologetics? That’s for “those people” over there.”
“Formed with the Church to Behold God” (podcast episode on Center for Pastor Theologians), featuring by Coleman Ford, associate professor of humanities, Texas Baptist College
- “Coleman Ford joins the podcast to talk about his story of coming to faith and how the Lord led him to academic ministry. He also talks about his recent book on discipleship, Formed in His Image. During this conversation we cover everything from the power of narratives (especially in movie form), the trinitarian aim of discipleship, the necessity of the church for forming people into the image of Christ, and much more!”
“Yes, you can trust the Bible!” (article on Baptist Press), written by Malcolm Yarnell, research professor of theology
- “The Bible is God’s Word, and He speaks to us by it this very day. The Bible is perfect and trustworthy in every way. The Bible speaks with God’s own authority. The Bible is, therefore, sufficient to save you and to guide you to live well. The wise person will read the Bible, heed the Bible, and trust the Bible above everything, including our own speculations.”
“Are the people in your pews good theologians? A conversation with Malcolm Yarnell” (article on The Christian Index), featuring Malcolm Yarnell, research professor of theology
- “As part of the royal priesthood of believers, theology is for all Christians—not just those teaching in the academy or serving in vocational ministry. It’s the call and privilege of every believer to know, love, and worship God. But how do we help the people in our pews see themselves as theologians? And how can we equip them to think rightly about God so their knowledge of God will lead them in greater love for God?”
“Human Dignity and the Image of God” (podcast episode on Moody Radio), interviewing David S. Dockery, president
- “Our culture is very confused about human dignity. What does “human dignity” mean and why should we care? The answer lies in the Biblical teaching of the image of God! Theologian and teacher Dr. David Dockery joins Chris Brooks to explain these concepts and why we must understand them! Learn how human dignity is tied to the image of God and why it offers life-giving truth to everyone we meet!”
“SBC leaders see bright future for Gateway under Groza’s leadership” (article on Baptist Press), featuring comments from David S. Dockery, president
- “Accolades are pouring in for Adam Groza, who was nominated to follow Jeff Iorg as president of Gateway Seminary. The formal announcement was made April 2, and Gateway trustees are expected to vote during their meeting April 15-16.”
“Many cite rise in hatred against Jews, Muslims during Israel-Hamas War, study says” (article on Baptist Press), featuring comments from Dan Darling, director of the Land Center for Cultural Engagement. assistant professor of faith and culture, Texas Baptist College
- “Many Americans believe antisemitism and Islamophobia have increased during the past three years and are especially driven by the Israel-Hamas War, Pew Research said in a study released April 2.”
“Dr. Malcolm Yarnell on Thomas Helwys” (podcast episode on Voices of Renewal), interviewing Malcolm Yarnell, research professor of theology
- Thomas Helwys (1575-1616) an English minister, was one of the joint founders, with John Smyth, of the General Baptist denomination. Helwys founded the first Baptist church in England and advocated for full religious liberty. To learn more about his life and renewal legacy, hear from Dr. Malcolm Yarnell, Research Professor of Theology at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.
