Do you have a long, boring commute every morning?
Or do you need something new to energize your workouts?
Podcasts are a great way to learn as you drive, exercise, work, or play!
If you’re not already listening to this Christian podcast here’s why you should check it out.
In the Doctrine and Devotion podcast, two pastors, Joe Thorn and Jimmy Fowler, explore Christian faith and practice.
The two are coworkers and close friends, and they enjoy spending time together and discussing theological issues — one of the reasons they started the podcast!
Doctrine and Devotion releases two episodes each week. Every Monday’s episode is a “1689” episode, while “Current Events” episodes come out on Thursdays.
In each “1689” episode, Joe and Jimmy discuss a short portion of the 1689 Baptist Confession and relate it to everyday Christian life.
“Current Events” episodes cover modern-day issues, from the discipline of solitude, to Christian friendships, to doubt, to the use of social media and more.
Joe and Jimmy discuss these issues through a Biblical lens, prompting questions about how Christians should engage with the modern world.
It’s important to begin by noting that Joe and Jimmy approach all these issues with a unique brand of humor. Even as they discuss weighty topics, the two pastors adopt a conversational (and sometimes irreverent) tone that invites listeners to openly engage with those topics, too.
If you don’t enjoy banter and jokes with your theology, Doctrine and Devotion may not be for you. But if you do, then you’ll appreciate Joe and Jimmy’s approach to Christian discussion!
As an example, one “Current Events” episode covers “Social Media Malignancy.” Joe and Jimmy begin by sharing statistics about the use of social media platforms worldwide, and they comment on the fact that social media is often a cause of profound depression.
Even Christians use social media to further slander, envy, hate, and discouragement, the two pastors note. In the world of Facebook arguments and perfect Instagrams, there’s little to no room for grace.
Social media can easily contribute to “unnecessary fighting among believers,” the two assert, and they’re not wrong.
So how can Christians redeem social media for God’s glory? Or is that an impossible ideal?
“You fight the discouragement on [social media] by…contending for the Gospel,” the pastors argue.
In a world that’s swiftly being taken over by the power of social media tools, Christians have a unique opportunity to speak truth to a large community. The two pastors go on to suggest some practical ways to do just that.
This episode is just one example of the issues covered in the “Current Events” category. Meanwhile, a “1689” episode might touch on the doctrine of Sunday worship.
In one such episode, Joe and Jimmy discuss the origin of Sabbath worship and wonder how Christians are called to “keep” the Sabbath in these modern times.
The Sabbath is “a creation ordinance,” the two assert, referring back to God’s day of rest in Genesis 2. We’re told throughout Scripture that a day of rest is necessary for us, and it’s even commanded by God.
So how do we “keep” the Sabbath? Are modern Christians allowed to cook, travel, or clean on Sundays?
Joe and Jimmy acknowledge that each Christian—and each family—discerns for themselves what God wants from their Sabbath rest, but there are certain things that are important across the board.
Setting aside a day to worship with other Christians and remember God’s works can only be a healthy choice, the duo reminds listeners. The Sabbath is a gift intended for our good and God’s glory, they conclude.
Other “1689” episodes cover marriage, Christian liberty, perseverance, and more. These episodes are sound, spiritually nourishing studies of important Biblical ideas.
In addition to the podcast, “Doctrine and Devotion” also offers videos, a monthly blog, and an annual conference. These resources exist to equip pastors and congregants to promote unity in God’s family.
If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on theological concepts, the “Doctrine and Devotion” collection may be a good place to start!
While Joe and Jimmy often take a circuitous route to the point of each episode, “Doctrine and Devotion” is an entertaining and educational experience every time.
Ready to spice up your commute, workday, or gym session? Start listening here!
