Best Ligon Duncan Podcasts (2025)

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ShoRTS: Jesus' Emotional Life (ft. Dane Ortlund) 11:38

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3h ago11:38

11:38

In this week's episode, Tommy Keene and Dane Ortlund visit a pub to chat about Jesus' emotional life, including how Jesus experienced emotions and what his emotional life means for us today. Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for you: www.rts.edu/washington. Email admissions.wa…

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How to Stay Sharp As a Pastor 35:52

1h ago35:52

35:52

Pastors are expected to keep learning—just like doctors, teachers, and counselors. In this episode, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan unpack formal and informal ways to stay sharp: carving out daily reading, using journals and courses, attending conferences, leaning on study Bibles, pursuing study leave or targeted coursework (ThM/DMin), and even tea…

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Preaching Between Worlds 39:25

4d ago39:25

39:25

With the academic conference season upon us, we're beginning a brand new mini series: Conference Conversations. Each week, we'll discuss one paper or presentation that's making waves in the academic world. This week's discussion is centered on a presentation given recently by our own Paul Jeon, titled Preaching Between Worlds: How Second Generation…

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The Leiden Synopsis ft. Hank van den Belt 36:13

7d ago36:13

36:13

This week, we’re pausing our Intellectual Imprints series to feature a recent lecture hosted by RTS Washington on the Leiden Synopsis, a 17th-century symposium of theologians which deeply impacted thinkers such as Herman Bavinck. Hank van den Belt introduced us to the history of this historic gathering, and posed an interesting question: are angels…

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Preparing Believers to Suffer 27:36

11d ago27:36

27:36

Suffering is not a glitch in the Christian life—it’s part of it. In this conversation, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan talk about how pastors can prepare their people to face pain with faith and endurance. They discuss what it means to view hardship through God’s providence, why the “victorious Christian life” often looks like just hanging on, and …

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Ricoeur 33:46

13d ago33:46

33:46

We're continuing our Intellectual Imprints series this week by discussing a man who revolutionized the way we understand the science of hermeneutics: Paul Ricoeur (1913–2005). While you may not have encountered his name in the wild, you have certainly encountered his hermeneutical method with respect to narrative and metaphor from leading voices in…

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Turretin 46:14

21d ago46:14

46:14

This week, we're continuing our Intellectual Imprints series by discussing one of the greatest Reformed Scholastics to ever do it: Francis Turretin. We're appreciating his theological precision and its pastoral implications as it relates to the ongoing work of the ministry today. Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? There's still ti…

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Effective Church Administration (with Jamie Dunlop) 36:11

28d ago36:11

36:11

Many pastors enter ministry to preach and shepherd, not manage spreadsheets—but good administration is deeply spiritual work. Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan talk with Jamie Dunlop (Capitol Hill Baptist Church) about how faithful administration protects unity, supports preaching, and strengthens trust in the church. They discuss deacons, elders, ex…

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Luther (ft. Ligon Duncan) 54:31

29d ago54:31

54:31

We're continuing our Intellectual Imprints series this week with a figure we all know and love: Martin Luther. We're joined by Dr. Ligon Duncan, Chancellor and CEO of Reformed Theological Seminary to discuss Luther's legacy both in the Reformation and today. J.I. Packer's introduction to Bondage of the Will: https://a.co/d/eQyJDkeBetween Wittenberg…

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Bonus Episode: A Sense of the Divine ft. Gray Sutanto 37:54

1M ago37:54

37:54

By Reformed Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C.

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Plato 40:44

1M ago40:44

40:44

We're continuing our Intellectual Imprints series this week with Plato. Some say that the entirety of the Western philosophical tradition is merely a footnote to Plato–is that really the case? Find out today. Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? There's still time to sign up for our winter intensives. Explore our degree programs and…

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The Pastor and Counseling (with Deepak Reju) 52:42

1M ago52:42

52:42

Every pastor wants a culture of care, but not every pastor feels equipped to counsel—much less to equip others to counsel one another. In this episode, Deepak Reju—a Delaware pastor who served for nearly 20 years as the counseling pastor at Capitol Hill Baptist Church—joins Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst to discuss counseling versus discipling, ho…

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Augustine 38:59

1M ago38:59

38:59

This week, we're continuing our Intellectual Imprints (formerly known as Dead Influencers) series with the titan of theology and philosophy: Augustine of Hippo. We've traced not only how Augustine shaped the church, but also how he's influenced the Western world at large. Interested in continuing this conversation in the classroom? There's still ti…

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Wellhausen 35:13

2M ago35:13

35:13

We're continuing with our Dead Influencers series this week with one of the most influential biblical scholars of all time: Julius Wellhausen. You may not recognize his name, but you have certainly encountered his ideas about the Bible. Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for yo…

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Prepare People for Church Discipline 32:51

2M ago32:51

32:51

Practicing church discipline is a vital biblical responsibility that’s often ignored in our modern age. In this episode, Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst discuss what church discipline is (and isn’t), why healthy congregations practice it, and why it’s actually a form of love. Drawing from experience, they also offer advice for fostering a culture i…

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Special Episode: On Teaching and Preaching (ft. Scott Redd) 32:55

2M ago32:55

32:55

In this special-edition episode, Tommy interviews Scott Redd, senior pastor of Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama about teaching, preaching, and the difference between the two.By Reformed Theological Seminary, Washington, D.C.

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Hegel 42:31

2M ago42:31

42:31

Welcome back to the Faculty Podcast! In this new season, season 7, we’re starting a new series called Intellectual Imprints: The Impact of Great Thinkers on Modern Thought. This week, we're discussing Hegel (1770–1831), whose ideology shapes our world more than you might think. Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? Explore our degree…

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Preparing Members for Death and Heaven 43:51

3M ago43:51

43:51

Ministry is about a lot of things, but central to the task is preparing people to die and face their Creator. This is deeply challenging, though, in a death-denying age. In this episode, Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst welcome Matt McCullough—a pastor in Nashville and the author of two excellent books, ‘Remember Death’ and ‘Remember Heaven’—to disc…

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Encore Episode: Image of God and Race 39:35

3M ago39:35

39:35

In this week's encore episode, the profs talk about the image of God in humanity as created and as redeemed in Christ, and share some thoughts on its implications for corporate responsibility and racial diversity. Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academic year? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for …

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Encore Episode: Reading the Bible Philosophically 30:00

3M ago30:00

30:00

In this week's encore episode, Drs. Redd and Sutanto talk about the Bible, Christianity, and philosophy. Topics include philosophy defined, biblical philosophy, and engaging with other philosophies. Enjoy!Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academic year? Time is running out to register for Fall classes. Explore our degre…

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Ministry to Children and Youth (with Jared Kennedy) 50:14

3M ago50:14

50:14

Every church has the privilege of thinking about how to best serve the children and youth entrusted to its care. In this episode, Jared Kennedy joins Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst to discuss various ministry models and best practices, as well as wisdom for equipping parents, selecting curriculum, vetting volunteers, caring for children with speci…

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Encore Episode: Personality and Worldview (ft. James Eglington) 57:29

3M ago57:29

57:29

In this week's encore episode, we're revisiting a groundbreaking work by J. H. Bavinck, Personality and Worldview, translated by Dr. Eglintona few years back. In it we are given a new perspective on worldview, one which encourages us to upgrade from "the compass" to "the map."Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academic y…

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Encore Episode: Rediscovering the Holy Spirit (ft. Michael Horton) 29:18

3M ago29:18

29:18

In this week's Encore Episode, Scott Redd and Tommy Keene talk with Dr. Michael Horton about the Holy Spirit. Dr. Horton is the J. Gresham Machen Professor of Systematic Theology and Apologetics at Westminster Seminary California, and a guest lecturer at the RTS Washington campus.Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academ…

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The Pastor and Friendships 39:47

3M ago39:47

39:47

Real friendship is an irreplaceable gift from God. Without it we will struggle—and shrivel—as humans made for one another. Pastors know this, and yet ministry can be exceedingly lonely. In this episode, Garrett Kell joins Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst to discuss how a busy pastor can foster (and maintain) meaningful, life-giving friendships amid …

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Encore Episode: Typology 24:54

4M ago24:54

24:54

In this week's encore episode, Scott Redd interviews Tommy Keene about typology and its importance for biblical interpretation. Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academic year? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for you: www.rts.edu/washington. Email [email protected] to get started.Follow…

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Encore Episode: The Septuagint: What It Is And Why It Matters (ft. Greg Lanier & Will Ross) 44:58

4M ago44:58

44:58

In this encore episode, the profs talk with Greg Lanier and Will Ross about the Septuagint—what it is and why it matters. Dr. Lanier is professor of New Testament at RTS Orlando and Dr. Ross is associate professor of Old Testament at RTS Charlotte.Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academic year? Explore our degree progr…

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Encore Episode: What Happens in Infant Baptism? 50:06

4M ago50:06

50:06

This summer, we're giving an encore presentation to some of our favorite episodes in the Faculty Podcast archives. This week, the profs answer a listener question about infant baptism. Topics include baptismal regeneration, water ordeals, vipers in diapers, and more.Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academic year? Explo…

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BONUS: Advice for Apologetics (with Wes Huff) 1:27:10

4M ago1:27:10

1:27:10

In a special crossover episode of The Everyday Pastor and Gospelbound, Wesley Huff joins Lig, Matt, and Collin to discuss the role of apologetics in pastoral ministry. How can pastors excel in giving a compelling reason for the hope within us—and train others to do the same? Drawing from both academic expertise and personal experience, Huff offers …

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Encore Episode: From Baptist to Presbyterian (ft. Scott Swain) 22:29

4M ago22:29

22:29

This summer, we're giving an encore presentation to some of our favorite episodes in the Faculty Podcast archives. This week, we'll hear again from Scott Swain, President of RTS Orlando, about his transition from Baptist to Presbyterian theology and ecclesiology.Have you considered taking a class with us during the upcoming academic year? Explore o…

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A Life of Ministry (ft. Glenn Hoburg) 16:51

5M ago16:51

16:51

This week, we're showcasing the commencement address from RTS Washington's 2025 graduation ceremony. The address was given by Glenn Hoburg, pastor of Grace Downtown in Washington D.C. Have you considered joining our recent graduates in a life of ministry? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for you: www.rts.edu/washington. Email a…

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Faculty Lounge 30:48

5M ago30:48

30:48

This week, we're just hanging out. We're talking about Dr. Sutanto's new book, graduation, and the RTS extension site in Chicago.Order A Sense of the Divine here: https://a.co/d/gk1Xh3oWant to continue the conversation in the classroom? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for you: www.rts.edu/washington. Email admissions.washingto…

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Special Announcement: A New Chapter for the Redds 12:47

5M ago12:47

12:47

In this episode, Dr. Redd sits down with the Chancellor & CEO of RTS, Dr. J. Ligon Duncan, to discuss his call to pastor Briarwood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama.Read more here: https://rts.edu/news/reformed-theological-seminary-celebrates-dr-j-scott-redd-jr-s-call-to-senior-pastor-role-at-briarwood-presbyterian-church/?utm_content=3355…

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Live: Listener Questions! 55:17

5M ago55:17

55:17

How do you prioritize health? How do you stay sharp? Can you be friends with church members? How do you care for your wife? When’s a time you were wrong? How do you choose what to preach? And many, many more questions pastors may be asking. In this special episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan answer listener-submitted que…

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Funerals 26:05

5M ago26:05

26:05

“Walk to a wedding, but run to a funeral.” So advised an older pastor to a young Ligon Duncan. In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst discuss the powerful opportunity that funerals present to hold out gospel hope, as well as common pitfalls and practical advice for navigating dynamics surrounding the death of a love…

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How Do You Write a Commentary? 42:40

6M ago42:40

42:40

This week, Dr. Keene rejoins the faculty to talk about the process of commentary writing, along with the writing process in general. Dr. Sutanto's favorite Edinburgh restaurant: Ting Thai: https://www.tingthai.co.uk/.Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? Explore our certificates and degree programs and find one that's right for you: …

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How to Care for Sufferers (with Joni Eareckson Tada) 1:03:11

6M ago1:03:11

1:03:11

Joni Eareckson Tada knows a thing or two about suffering. Ever since a diving accident left her paralyzed nearly 60 years ago, she has given eloquent testimony to the sovereign goodness of our Savior. In this powerful episode of The Everyday Pastor, Joni joins Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan to share lessons she’s learned about enduring hardship, a…

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The New Temple (Ezekiel 40-48) 45:10

6M ago45:10

45:10

This week, we’re discussing Ezekiel’s final vision: the new temple. We’ll investigate how Israel interpreted this vision and how Jesus is the fulfillment of new temple imagery. Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for you: www.rts.edu/washington. You can click the "apply" button …

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Weddings 23:33

6M ago23:33

23:33

Every pastor has the joy (at least usually it’s a joy) of officiating Christian weddings, which can be a beautiful picture of the gospel. In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst offer practical advice for stewarding these opportunities and making the most of a wedding weekend. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company…

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Ministry Lessons from Tim Keller 52:15

6M ago52:15

52:15

Two years ago today, Tim Keller went to be with the Lord. Using Matt’s new book—Tim Keller on the Christian Life, published by Crossway—as a discussion guide, Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst reflect on underappreciated teachings from Tim’s body of work. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collecti…

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The Valley of Vision - Jonathan Cruse 34:06

6M ago34:06

34:06

Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, As the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, So our eyes look to the Lord our God, Until He has mercy on us. —Psalm 123:2 For the next three weeks on All of Life for God, Pastor Jonathan Cruse returns with three more sermons on the Psalms of Ascents. This week, Pastor Cruse ca…

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Women’s Ministry in the Church 43:51

6M ago43:51

43:51

Ministering to the women in our churches and equipping them to disciple one another is a privilege. But how can pastors do this well? In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Ligon Duncan and Matt Smethurst welcome Melissa Kruger and Courtney Doctor to the podcast. They draw from extensive experience to discuss practical tips for cultivating a healt…

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10 Indictments against the Modern Church (Part 4) - Paul Washer 37:47

6M ago37:47

37:47

"Repent, or else I will come to you quickly and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.”—Revelation 2:16 This week, on All of Life for God, Paul Washer levies his final three indictments against the modern church: that we have abandoned the call for holiness, ignored the authority of the Scriptures in our homes, and listened to unqualif…

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Why You Need Good Deacons 39:12

7M ago39:12

39:12

Show us a church with distracted elders, and we’ll show you a church without effective deacons. For better or worse, deacons are difference-makers in congregational life. But when it comes to this topic, too many churches are operating from custom and tradition—with Bibles closed. In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Dun…

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10 Indictments against the Modern Church (Part 3) - Paul Washer 34:49

7M ago34:49

34:49

“You were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”—1 Peter 1:18-19 Has today’s church forgotten these verses? This week, on All of Life for God, Paul Washer contends that the mod…

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A Global Conflict (Ezekiel 38) 25:27

7M ago25:27

25:27

This week, we're discussing Ezekiel's prophecy against Gog, the Lord's intervention, and what this text teaches us about our place in the world today. Want to continue this conversation in the classroom? Explore our degree programs and find one that's right for you: www.rts.edu/washington. Email [email protected] to get started.Follow u…

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Working with Fellow Elders (Part 2) 30:07

7M ago30:07

30:07

Last week, we considered what elders are, biblically speaking, and which traits should characterize a candidate for the office. In this follow-up episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan get even more “nuts and boltsy,” discussing tips for working with fellow elders, leading elders’ meetings, establishing healthy cultural dyn…

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The Valley of Dry Bones (Ezekiel 37) 34:43

7M ago34:43

34:43

We've arrived at one of our favorite scenes in Ezekiel—the valley of dry bones. In this episode, we'll see how God's sovereignty in regeneration is not only a matter of orthodoxy, but a deeply hopeful and practical aid for ministry today. For information about our first class in Chicago, visit the Summer 2025/2026 tab of our upcoming classes page: …

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10 Indictments against the Modern Church (Part 2) - Paul Washer 20:33

7M ago20:33

20:33

“But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness.”—1 Corinthians 1:23 This week, on All of Life for God, Paul Washer launches two more indictments against the modern church: that we have forgotten the cross of Christ and the doctrine of regeneration. Remember the love you had at first as Paul Washer c…

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Working with Fellow Elders (Part 1) 35:19

7M ago35:19

35:19

There are few greater gifts for a pastor than getting to serve with a godly band of brothers. But not every church has multiple elders—and not every elder team functions in a healthy way. In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan discuss what elders are, why every church should seek to have them, and what a pastor shou…

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10 Indictments against the Modern Church (Part 1) - Paul Washer 22:39

7M ago22:39

22:39

“Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent.”—Revelation 2:5 For the next few weeks on All of Life for God, we will hear from preacher and evangelist Paul Washer on our desperate need to reform if we want to see revival. …