Vos Group #88 — Temptability and Peccability

05/03/24 • -1 min

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the intriguing account of Jesus’ temptation by Satan in the wilderness. Join us as we explore the profound insights offered by Geerhardus Vos on pages 339–342 in his work Biblical Theology and unpack the ultimate issue at stake in this cosmic confrontation: Who should be God, and whose Messiah would Jesus be?

We grapple with the perplexing questions surrounding Jesus’ temptability and peccability. How could a sinless Jesus be tempted, and what does this imply about his ability to sin? We examine Vos’s argument that the things Satan suggested were not inherently sinful, only wrong due to God’s prohibition, and consider how this differs from modern interpretations that see the temptations as allurements towards a worldly, political messianic role.

Vos’s work invites us to ponder the profound mystery of a fully human Jesus who is intimately united with the Holy Spirit and possesses a divine nature. We consider how these unique aspects of Jesus’ identity make his sinlessness even more unthinkable than Adam’s, and we wrestle with the implications for our understanding of Jesus’ impeccability.

Through a careful analysis of Vos’s insights and a lively discussion of the theological complexities involved, we aim to shed light on this pivotal moment in Jesus’ earthly mission and its significance for our faith. Join us as we explore the depths of Jesus’ commitment to the path of humiliation and suffering, and the ultimate triumph of his messianic glory.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:33 Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation
00:07:31 Camden’s Trip to Budapest and Vienna
00:14:09 Temptability and Peccability
00:22:50 Bavinck and Vos on the Person of the Son
00:37:59 The Nature of Jesus’ Temptation
00:42:48 Other Theories of the Messianic Nature of the Temptation
00:46:41 Christ’s Victory Comes through Suffering unto Glory
00:52:06 Satan’s Intent to Circumvent Redemption
01:00:17 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:02:33 Calvinism: The Plan of Salvation
00:07:31 Camden’s Trip to Budapest and Vienna
00:14:09 Temptability and Peccability
00:22:50 Bavinck and Vos on the Person of the Son
00:37:59 The Nature of Jesus’ Temptation
00:42:48 Other Theories of the Messianic Nature of the Temptation
00:46:41 Christ’s Victory Comes through Suffering unto Glory
00:52:06 Satan’s Intent to Circumvent Redemption
01:00:17 Conclusion

Participants: Camden Bucey, Lane G. Tipton

Previous Episode

Van Til and the Foundation of Christian Ethics

In this episode, we welcome Scott J. Hatch, author of Reformed Forum’s latest publication, Van Til and the Foundation of Christian Ethics: A God-Centered Approach to Moral Philosophy, to consider the profound relationship between theology and ethics as articulated by Cornelius Van Til. In addition to providing an original treatment of the subject, Hatch has also edited a critical edition of Van Til’s Christian-Theistic Ethics, which is included as a lengthy appendix in this volume. This never before been available, and anyone interested in the thought of Cornelius Van Til should surely get a copy for their library.

This insightful conversation illuminates Van Til’s unique approach to Christian ethics, emphasizing a God-centered moral philosophy grounded in the doctrine of the self-contained ontological Trinity. Hatch explores Van Til’s critique of moral relativism and how his theological framework offers a compelling solution to ethical dilemmas, contrasting with the perspectives of other ethicists and theologians.

The episode promises to enrich understanding of Christian ethics through the lens of Reformed theology, challenging believers to consider the foundational role of the Triune God in all moral considerations. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of how Cornelius Van Til’s groundbreaking work continues to shape contemporary discussions on Christian ethics, offering a robust, God-centered approach that speaks to the challenges of modern moral relativism.

Chapters

00:00:07 Introduction
00:04:12 Being Introduced to Cornelius Van Til’s Theology and Apologetics
00:09:54 Versions of Van Til’s Ethics
00:21:24 The Uniqueness of Van Til’s Ethical Approach
00:28:42 Ethics and the Doctrine of God
00:36:44 Alasdair MacIntryre and Critiques of Moral Relativism
00:45:11 Critiques and Misunderstandings of Van Til’s Ethics
00:53:29 Van Til’s Value for Future Generations
00:59:13 For Further Study
01:03:54 Conclusion

Links

Participants: Camden Bucey, Scott Hatch

Next Episode

Reformed Evangelism

This episode addresses the heart of Reformed evangelism, featuring a compelling conversation with the Rev. Paul Murphy, pastor of evangelism at Messiah’s Reformed Fellowship in New York, and Dr. Eric Watkins, director of the Center for Missions and Evangelism at Mid-America Reformed Seminary. In this conversation, we explore the unique approach of Reformed theology to evangelism, addressing common stereotypes, and addressing the challenges and opportunities for spreading the gospel in urban settings.

We unpack the misconception that Reformed Christians do not engage in evangelism, shedding light on the historical and theological roots of this stereotype. It also highlights the exciting new opportunities, including church planting and revitalization efforts in Chicago and New York.

Listeners will gain insights into the distinct aspects of Reformed evangelism, as outlined by the Reformed creeds and confessions, and the importance of understanding one’s role within the Body of Christ. The discussion emphasizes the need for a culture of evangelism within local congregations and offers practical suggestions for fostering this culture.