Life and Books and Everything
Clearly Reformed
Life and Books and Everything is a podcast hosted by Kevin DeYoung where discussions center on, well, life and books and everything. As a church pastor and theology professor, Kevin loves to talk about faith, theology, history, current events, and the occasional hot topic. The format for LBE includes interviews with leading authors and thinkers, recurring conversations with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen, and the occasional solo musing from Kevin. Listen in and we hope you will learn something, laugh a little, and get some good book recommendations along the way.
The Pastor as Leader with John Currie
April 17, 2024
With everything the pastor must do—preach, pray, visit, raise money, organize meetings, write emails, study, write, marry, bury, and baptize—does he also need to be a leader? John Currie, in his new book The Pastor as Leader (Crossway), says yes. But don't fear, this is not about one more impossible
Get Married with Brad Wilcox
April 3, 2024
For most of us, getting married and forging a strong family is the best way to build a prosperous, meaningful, and happy life. That's the message of Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization, the new book by University of Virginia professor Brad Wi
The Just War Tradition
March 20, 2024
Have you ever wondered if King Arthur was justified in cutting off all four limbs of Monty Python’s Black Knight when he refused the king passage? If so, then you’ll want to listen to this episode of LBE with Eric Patterson. Eric is an author, an important leader in Washington, D.C. and an expert in
Where Have All the Fundamentalists Gone?
March 6, 2024
With two smart British historians—one from Oxford (Andrew) and one from Aberystwyth (David)--and one curious American pastor (Kevin), you might say that this episode puts the "fun" back in fundamentalism. How did fundamentalism become a pejorative putdown? Are evangelicals and fundamentalists really
Our Ancient Faith: Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment with Allen Guelzo
February 14, 2024
He must be one of Kevin's favorite historians and favorite guests, because Dr. Guelzo is back for an unprecedented third visit to the LBE book-cave. Although Dr. Guelzo's new book is about Abraham Lincoln, Kevin and Allen talk about much more than just Lincoln—everything from John Locke to Christian
What Happened to Young, Restless, and Reformed?
January 24, 2024
In this extra-long episode, Kevin teams up with Justin and Collin to talk about something they were all deeply involved in: the movement known as the Reformed Resurgence, the New Calvinism, or YRR. What was this movement about? What went right? What went wrong? Why did the movement fracture? Is "Big
A Very Merry Midwestern Christmas
December 20, 2023
Even though only Justin still lives in the Midwest, this episode has a distinctly Midwestern flare as the three amigos reminisce about favorite Christmas presents, Christmas places, and Christmas foods. You'll also hear about favorite books from the past year, some football banter, and a special sec
Life and Ministry with Alistair Begg
December 7, 2023
If you ever wanted to be in the room as two minister friends talk about preaching and pastoral ministry, this is the episode for you. Kevin asks Alistair about his “ordinary” preaching style, about whether he ever thought about leaving Parkside, and about whether he’s an American or a Scotsman. Plus
Politics after Christendom with David VanDrunen
November 29, 2023
Any Christian trying to formulate a political theology cannot afford to ignore the impressive work done by David VanDrunen over the past decade. In this long-ish interview, Kevin asks Dave about two kingdoms theology, natural law, the purpose of government, and the importance of the Noahic Covenant.
Life and Ministry with Carl Trueman
November 21, 2023
In this fun and frank discussion, Kevin and Carl talk about everything from Billy Graham to Pride Month to Christian Nationalism. Along the way Carl reveals what he hates about America and why he is not a Catholic.
The Two-Parent Privilege with Melissa Kearney
October 26, 2023
In this episode, Kevin talks with Melissa Kearney, professor of economics at the University of Maryland, about her new book, The Two-Parent Privilege: How Americans Stopped Getting Married and Started Falling Behind (University of Chicago Press, 2023). What is so great about being raised by two pare
The Rise of Contemporary Critical Theory with Neil Shenvi and Pat Sawyer
October 12, 2023
We've heard the terms before: cultural Marxism, socialism, intersectionality, microaggressions, standpoint epistemology, the Frankfurt School, Critical Race Theory, Queer Theory, and many more. But what do they mean? Where did they come from? And how should Christians respond? Kevin talks to Neil an
Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age with Rosaria Butterfield
September 27, 2023
Is homosexuality normal? Is transgenderism a sin? Is Christian kindness the same thing as spiritual niceness? What's the difference between acceptance and approval? In this episode, Kevin and Rosaria probe these questions and many others like them. Whether you are struggling with sexual sin, know so
The Reformation as Renewal with Matthew Barrett
September 13, 2023
Was the Protestant Reformation a repudiation of the church's history? Was it a rejection of Medieval theology? Did the Reformation lead to schism in the church? Kevin talks to Matthew Barrett, professor of Christian theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, about these questions and many
Is All the Talk of Mental Health Bad for Our Mental Health?
August 23, 2023
The three amigos are back to kick off a new season of LBE. From college football to dropping kids off at college to the rise of mental health issues on college campuses (and everywhere else!), this episode has a back-to-school vibe you won't want to miss. Stick around for one summer book recommendat
Life and Ministry with Kevin DeYoung
August 11, 2023
Don't skip over the preposition. This special episode is an interview with Kevin, instead of an interview by Kevin. Not long ago, Tom Groelsema, one of the pastors at Christ Covenant, took the evening service to interview Kevin. This was not Kevin's idea, but he was grateful for the opportunity to s
A Little Bit of L, B, and E with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen
June 21, 2023
The triumvirate managed to get together one last time before setting sail for summer plans. With little time to spare before Collin needed to run Tom Cruise-style after a plane bound for the UK, the three amigos chat about the legacies of Tim Keller and Harry Reeder, the books they’ve been reading a
The Gender Paradigm with Abigail Favale
June 7, 2023
What is feminism? What is intersectionality? Who is Judith Butler? How does childbearing change a woman? Why do Catholic feminist scholars have such interesting Italian last names? These are just some of the questions Kevin explores with Abigail Favale as they talk about her book, The Genesis of Gen
Anatomy of a Sneer
June 6, 2023
Are male and female distinctions rooted in given biological realities or are “man” and “woman” simply designations we choose for ourselves based on our own feelings and sense of identity? In this episode, Kevin reviews an article written by USA Today’s Nancy Armour about transgender people competing
7 Reasons Why Mormonism and Christianity Are Not the Same
June 5, 2023
Though the language sounds similar at times, the beliefs are quite distinct. Mormons do not understand history, God, man, salvation, heaven, hell, the cross, Jesus, or the Trinity as the canonical Scriptures teach, nor do they agree with the conciliar doctrine taught by the one, holy, catholic, apos
Christian Witness in Public Life with Paul McNulty
June 1, 2023
With a 30-year career in Washington, D.C. and going on ten years as president of Grove City College, Paul McNulty has had a remarkable career. Recently, Dr. McNulty, a PCA ruling elder, gave the commencement address at Covenant Day School (where Kevin’s kids attend) and then spoke during the Sunday
Prophetic or Merely Performative
May 23, 2023
In this article, Kevin discusses how Christians are to honor each other and Christ when critiquing and correcting each other.
He Was Ready for Heaven
May 22, 2023
He kept the main thing the main thing. He wasn’t a jerk. He wasn’t a prima donna. He was enjoyable to be around. He was full of the fruit of the Spirit.That’s a good life; that’s a Christian life.
Giving Thanks for Harry Reeder (1948–2023)
May 19, 2023
In many ways, Harry was a man’s man: strong, athletic, and confident. But he was also a family man. We should pray for his wife, Cindy, along with their three children—Jennifer, Ike, and Abby—and their many grandchildren. Harry will be greatly missed by thousands, but especially by his family. I’ll
Abraham Lincoln: Redeemer President with Allen Guelzo
May 10, 2023
It’s a special day at LBE as Kevin interviews his first returning guest, the esteemed historian Dr. Allen Guelzo of Princeton University. Find out how Dr. Guelzo moved from being an Edwards scholar to being a Lincoln scholar (and how Edward’s treatise on the will still permeates much of what Guelzo
Two Sexes, Created to Be Distinct
May 5, 2023
Kevin reflects on the current cultural climate of gender expression and offers the explicit opinion of scripture as a rebuttal.
Technology Is Neither Good, nor Bad, nor Neutral with Tony Reinke and Samuel James
April 27, 2023
How should the Christian think about technology? How should we use technology? Are we better off as Luddites who avoid new technologies? In this episode—ironically, interrupted by many technological glitches!—Kevin talks with two of our leading writers when it comes to God, technology, and culture.
An American Evangelist
April 18, 2023
In this Episode, Kevin reads from his recent article for First Things, a response Collin Hansen's article about the life and ministry of Tim Keller.
“That’s Just Your Interpretation”
April 6, 2023
The charge of “just your interpretation” short-circuits the interpretative process altogether.In this article for WORLD Opinions, Kevin argues for scriptural inerrancy and the importance of “right” interpretation.
Sorrows Untold and Hearts Torn Asunder
March 29, 2023
In the wake of tragedy, we need the whole Bible with all the depth of Christ’s sympathy and all of God’s providential and loving care.
First Sermon, Hard Goodbyes, and a Lifetime of Preaching with H.B. Charles Jr.
March 29, 2023
With a heart of gold, H.B. got up early in the morning from a hotel room in L.A. to talk to Kevin about preaching. If you want to know what H.B. stands for, or what he preached for his first sermon as an 11-year-old boy, or what the hardest in his life was, you won’t want to miss this episode. Get t
Who Was St. Patrick?
March 16, 2023
St. Patrick was more than the Americanized way of celebrating him. His life’s work is marked by faithfulness to evangelism and the gospel.
In Appreciation of Stickiness and the Midwest with Jon Lauck
March 8, 2023
Often lampooned as boring, bland, and less important than other regions in the country, might it be that the Midwest actually has its own regional identity and a story worth telling? Jon Lauck, a professor at the University of South Dakota thinks so. In this episode Kevin talks to Jon about his exce
So, What about That TGC Article on Sex?
March 7, 2023
Many of the most virulent critics seemed to object to any asymmetry between men and women in sexual intimacy. In this episode, Kevin offers six reflections amid the firestorm surrounding an article by Joshua Butler for The Gospel Coalition.
From Death to life
February 28, 2023
Church attendance is declining. In this episode, Kevin reads from his recent article for WORLD Opinions where he argues for including additional data for analysis and offers a word of hope.
What is True Revival?
February 23, 2023
True revival is marked by a rediscovery of the word of God, a restored sense of the fear of God, a return to God through confession and repentance, a renewed spiritual commitment as God’s people, and, finally, a reformation if true piety. What are Christians to make of the Asbury Revival? This episo
An Invitation and Explanation of the Coram Deo Pastors Conference
February 21, 2023
Dear brother pastor, In a spirit of prayerful expectation, I want to invite you to the Coram Deo Pastors Conference. This new event is hosted by Clearly Reformed (a new ministry I help to lead) and Christ Covenant Church (where I have the privilege of serving as senior pastor). We look forward to fi
More than Thoughts and Candles
February 16, 2023
As long as there is sin and suffering in the world, the gospel will be relevant. In the wake of the tragic MSU shooting, Christians must remember that the hope of healing lies in the truth of the gospel.
From Wales to America and Back Again: Lessons from a Life in Ministry with Derek Thomas
February 14, 2023
In this episode, Kevin is joined by his friend and RTS colleague, Derek Thomas as the two of them talk about pastoring, preaching, and why Derek loves Columbia, South Carolina. Derek shares about his conversion (through reading John Stott), some terrible advice from his vicar, and the differences be
PCA 50th Anniversary Devotion
February 7, 2023
For many of us, the danger is not that we would explicitly deny the Word of God. The danger is that we nullify the truth in other, more subtle ways. In this article, Kevin reads from a devotional he wrote for "By Faith" for the 50th anniversary of the PCA.
The Second Coming of Christ with John Piper
February 6, 2023
Kevin sits down with John for a return visit to LBE to talk about John’s new book, “Come, Lord Jesus: Meditations on the Second Coming of Christ” (Crossway). Hear what John Piper thinks about the rapture, the millennium, and why it is essential that we love Christ’s appearing. Kevin and John also ta
An Open Statement of the Truth
February 1, 2023
We must never use apologetics—or for that matter, contextualization—as a way to make hard truths less noticeable or the offense of the gospel more palatable. In this article from WORLD Opinions, Kevin encourages Christians to be bold and courageous in the face of cultural accusations.
A Fuller Measure of Witherspoon on Slavery
January 30, 2023
A Princeton University president, teacher, preacher, politician, Declaration of Independence signatory, and a slave owner. As an early American patriot, John Witherspoon has been the center of some recent controversy as a statue of him may be removed from historic Princeton University library ground
Is the Church Failing at Being a Church?
January 18, 2023
Before we denounce most leaders as Pharisees and large swaths of the church as complicit in the evil deeds of darkness, let’s make sure we are not trafficking in well-meaning, but unhelpful, myths. This article, written for WORLD Opinions, urges Christians to be aware of and address sin, but to abst
Football, the Future, and Personal Piety with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen
January 17, 2023
If you want a longer-than-usual discussion about football, you’ve come to the right episode. After ruminating on why Americans like football so much, the three amigos turn their attention to more familiar themes, prognosticating on which Christians around today will still be known 50 years from now.
The Economics of Abortion in One Lesson
January 10, 2023
In this Episode from an written for Christ Over All, Kevin discusses the moral and economic affects that abortion has on mothers, families, and women.
A New Goal for the New Year
January 4, 2023
There are many worthwhile battles to fight in life. The most important, most necessary, and most dangerous is the war we must wage against sin, flesh, and the devil. A new year means new opportunities to grow as Christians. This article written for WORLD Opinions, encourages believers to focus on sp
John Witherspoon: President and Patriot
December 29, 2022
A Princeton University president, teacher, preacher, politician, Declaration of Independence signatory, and a slave owner. As an early American patriot, John Witherspoon has been the center some recent controversy as a statue of him may be removed from historic Princeton University library grounds.
The Promise of Christmas
December 23, 2022
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from his recent article in WORLD opinions about the curse in the garden, the hope and promise of Christ's coming, and our restoration to communion with God.
Pastor, Don't Get Cute this Christmas
December 14, 2022
Kevin reads from his article in The Gospel Coalition to encourage pastors to forego the cliche and cute and stick to preaching "the old, old story" this Christmas.
Christmas, Best Books, and Renewing Evangelicalism with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen
December 13, 2022
The gang is back for one last episode in 2022. There is the usual sports banter (very brief), and some good natured ribbing toward Justin, who seems to know nothing about pop culture but still has dreams about Elvis. The three friends share some of their favorite reads from the past year, and they
A Dust-up among the Historians
December 9, 2022
For as much as the CFH talks about inclusion and the free exchange of ideas, it is clear that the present leadership of the historical guild assumes conclusions on the left. In this response to a recent article published by Jay Green, Kevin discusses the pitfalls of using history for activist purpos
What is Conservatism? with Daniel McCarthy
December 7, 2022
Several months ago, Daniel McCarthy—editor of Modern Age and Editor-at-Large of The American Conservative—published an essay in First Things entitled “The Right Right.” McCarthy’s essay was a review of Yoram Hazony’s Conservatism: A Rediscovery and Matthew Continetti’s The Right: The Hundred-Year Wa
Who Was St. Nicholas?
December 6, 2022
With what little we know about St. Nicholas, it is safe to say he would not be pleased to know he had eclipsed Christ in the hearts of many as the central figure of Christmas. In this episode, Kevin reads from his article in The Gospel Coalition about the life and legacy of St. Nicholas.
What Should Christians Think About Same-Sex Marriage?
December 1, 2022
In this article written for Crossway, Kevin discusses the meaning of the term "marriage" and how Christians should view same-sex unions.
The Darkness Does Not Win
December 1, 2022
With so many sad things in our world, it can be difficult to see any bright spots. This article reminds Christians of the hope of Christmas.
A Plea to Pastors: Don’t Cancel Church on Christmas
November 30, 2022
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads his article from The Gospel Coalition and pleads with pastors not to cancel Christmas services this year.
A People of Public Thanksgiving
November 24, 2022
Happy Thanksgiving from Life and Books and Everything! In this episode, Kevin reads from his recent article in WORLD Opinions about the history of an American holiday and the opportunity it presents to Christians to display their thankfulness.
The Process of Church Disestablishment in America with Jonathan Den Hartog
November 23, 2022
If you love long words like antidisestablishmentarianism and are looking for a deep dive into history, then this episode is for you. Jonathan is a professor at Samford University who specializes in the founding era of American history. He joins Kevin to talk about the 50 years process by which the A
Life and Ministry with Mark Dever
November 18, 2022
In this fun, punchy, and (hopefully) edifying conversation, Kevin interviews his good friend, Mark Dever, about his conversion, his ministry on Capitol Hill, whether you have to be an extrovert to evangelize, and why Kevin likes G.K. Chesterton and Mark doesn’t. Timestamps: Intro, Guest, and Sponsor
Liberty, Pandora, and the Serpent
November 11, 2022
Was America founded on purely Christian principles and ideals? Or, were the founding fathers simply trying to prevent corruption and preserve the sanctity of consciousness? In this article for WORLD opinions, Kevin discusses three observable pillars that make up the famous and crucial founding princ
Positive World, Negative World, and Christian Nationalism with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen
November 8, 2022
The three amigos enter into a meandering conversation about Christian Nationalism and try to discern the level of the world’s hostility to the church in this cultural moment. They also make some political predictions and (most importantly) encourage Christian leaders that, whatever the winds blowing
A World Awash in Sheer Monkery
November 2, 2022
Reformation Day may be behind us, but a huge responsibility lies before us. The faith of the Reformation must be kept alive because the ideas Luther combatted are just as much present in our own day. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for WORLD Op
Does Christianity Transcend All Our Political Disagreements?
October 28, 2022
Christians don’t just disagree on political principles or on a number of political conclusions. Christians disagree on how Christianity and politics relate to each other in the first place. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads his recent article in WORLD opinions, "Does Chri
Life and Ministry with Sinclair Ferguson
October 25, 2022
Have you ever wanted to sit down with an older godly pastor and just ask him about life for an hour? Well, that’s what Kevin tries to do with Sinclair in this wide-ranging conversation that talks about Scotland, America, books, preaching, Shetland ponies, Groundskeeper Willie, and the Queen. Timesta
The Case for Kids
October 20, 2022
Too often Christian leaders lay impossible burdens on their people, insisting that they solve a host of social ills and become experts in a thousand different areas, forgetting to assure them that to get married, raise children in the church, and stay married is a life well lived. In this episode of
Evangelicalism, Elites, and Excellence with Aaron Renn
October 12, 2022
Coming out of a consulting background, Aaron Renn is now a regular contributor to many important conversations among Christians and conservatives. In this interview, Kevin asks Aaron about the three worlds of evangelicalism and how we should think about elites. They also discuss where evangelicalism
A Lifetime of Books and Ministry with D.A. Carson
September 28, 2022
With more than 50 books and hundreds of articles, not to mention scores of edited works, Don Carson has written a lot. In this retrospective on life and books and everything, Kevin asks Dr. Carson about his father, how he sees the state of the church, and what books he especially enjoyed (or didn’t
From Silence, to Complexification, to Capitulation
September 26, 2022
Evangelicals who set down the path toward LGBTQ acceptance rarely turn around and head back in the other direction. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for WORLD Opinions about why evangelicals surrender to the LGBTQ agenda.
Apologetics and Critical Race Theory with Neil Shenvi
September 12, 2022
Although Neil has a PhD in theoretical chemistry, he’s made a name for himself as an expert on Critical Race Theory (and Critical Theory more generally). Is CRT just a legal theory? Can anyone know what it really is? Is CRT just a plot by conservatives to gin up votes? Should Christians take CRT and
Judge Not
September 9, 2022
The injunction not to judge is a necessary warning for us all, not least the religious person who can easily be tempted to look down on those who seem less religious. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for Tabletalk magazine about how Matthew 7:1
Keep a Close Watch on Your Life with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen
August 30, 2022
After a summer break, the triumvirate is back together to talk about books and biography. Kevin and Justin highlight some of their favorite books from the past few months, and Collin talks about the Tim Keller biography (of sorts) he has coming in the months ahead. Before getting to the books, the t
A Lesson from Liz Cheney’s Loss
August 26, 2022
People know when their leaders no longer like them In this episode, Kevin reads from an article he wrote for WORLD reflecting on one lesson from Liz Cheney’s 37-point defeat in Wyoming’s Republican primary.
Just War and Our Cultural Conflict
August 11, 2022
We’re in a battle whether we like it or not, but how we fight matters. In this episode, Kevin reads from the third of a series of articles for WORLD Opinions on how to think about Christianity and politics.
Death to the Patriarchy?
August 3, 2022
To ignore, minimize, or repudiate the differences between men and women is to reject our creational design. In this episode, Kevin reads from an article written for Desiring God, reasoning why we should be careful not to banish patriarchy to the ash heap of history too quickly.
The Pitfalls and Possibilities of Being “Political”
July 20, 2022
There is no category called “politics” that can be safely quarantined from the category we call “religion.” In this episode, Kevin reads from the second of a series of articles for WORLD Opinions on how to think about Christianity and politics.
When Roe Was Overturned
July 6, 2022
Maybe the movie ends with the good guys smiling with grateful satisfaction, knowing that whatever failures lay in the past, and whatever dangers lie ahead, this was a day for celebration. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for WORLD Opinions on wh
The Spirit and Flesh of Thomas Jefferson with Thomas Kidd
June 30, 2022
Kevin welcomes Tommy Kidd to LBE to talk about Tommy’s new biography on Thomas Jefferson. How should we understand Jefferson’s many inconsistencies and contradictions? How do we make sense of his significant moral failings? Was he a Christian? Is his legacy worth commemorating and celebrating? Kevin
"Let the Little Children Come To Me"
June 25, 2022
As much as abortion has been indefensible on constitutional grounds, the real monstrosity of Roe was not legal but moral. For 50 years the two sides of the debate have been called “pro-choice” and “pro-life,” and those are accurate labels. The ability to freely terminate a pregnancy—at any point in
How to Think about Christianity and Politics
June 21, 2022
No doubt, we need a lot of smart people reflecting on the intellectual principles and the practical priorities of our moral philosophy. That’s a crucial conversation. But that’s not the conversation most ordinary people are having online, in church, and around the dinner table. They (and I should sa
Reclaiming the Lost Vision of Family Life with Erika Bachiochi
June 8, 2022
In this episode of LBE, Kevin visits with Erika Bachiochi—a pro-life legal scholar, an author, a wife, and a mother of seven children. After discussing the Dobbs case which, we hope will overturn Roe, Kevin and Erika turn their attention to the Enlightenment writer Mary Wollstonecraft. In this wide-
The Indelible Conscience and a Month of “Pride”
June 7, 2022
Pride Month turns a moral argument—about which the Bible has clear and unequivocal answers—into a quest for personal self-acceptance, which is why many soft-hearted and muddle-headed Christians line up for the parade just like everyone else. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin re
The Power of the Two-Parent Home
June 1, 2022
After the gospel, there is no bigger gift you can give to the world than your children and no better gift you can give your children than to be raised by a mom and dad who love them and love each other. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for the S
Harry Emerson Fosdick and the Spirit of American Liberalism
May 27, 2022
On May 21, 1922, Harry Emerson Fosdick took to the pulpit of Old First—the historic First Presbyterian Church (est. 1716) located on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan—to deliver what would be his most famous sermon. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for
The Good News of Limited Atonement
May 19, 2022
The doctrine of particular redemption is worth defining and defending because it gets to the heart of the gospel. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for byFaith on the good news of limited atonement.
The Heart of the Cross with Phil Ryken
May 17, 2022
Kevin welcomes Phil Ryken, President at Wheaton College, to the podcast to talk about “The Heart of the Cross,” a newly reissued book comprised of sermons from Dr. Ryken and James Montgomery Boice. But before they get to the book, Kevin and Phil talk about preaching, the challenges of higher educati
Seven Principles for Cultivating a Christian Posture toward the World
May 13, 2022
Important lessons to learn as we deal with negativity and hostility In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for WORLD Opinions on seven principles for cultivating a Christian posture toward the world.
Hoping for the Fall of Roe with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen
May 10, 2022
After the unprecedented leak of the possible Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade, Kevin talks to Justin and Collin about the pro-life movement in America, how the church ministers well, and why political polarization is not always a bad thing. The triumvirate also talk about the books the
Lessons From Mainline Decline
May 4, 2022
Relevant Christianity doesn’t stay relevant for long. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for WORLD Opinions on the decline of the mainline church.
Daily Worship, Creation Days, and Feisty Presbyterians with Jonathan Gibson
April 26, 2022
In this freewheeling conversation, Kevin talks to Jonny Gibson about his life, his books, and some of everything. Gibson, an Old Testament professor at Westminster Theological Seminary, opens up about the loss of his daughter in 2016, why he believes in 24-hour creation days, and the need for old fo
John Witherspoon on Justification and Regeneration with Peter Lillback
April 18, 2022
In this bonus episode, Kevin talks with historian and WTS president, Peter Lillback, about the life and ministry of John Witherspoon. In particular, they discuss Witherspoon’s treatises on justification and regeneration, a new (old) book being published by Westminster Seminary Press. Listen in as Ke
The Story of Us All
April 15, 2022
The fundamental story of the world is not the story of good guys and bad guys, or of oppressors and the oppressed, but of sinners and a Savior. In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin reads from the article he wrote for WORLD Opinions for Holy Week, examining how we are all sinners i
Covenant Theology with John Fesko
April 6, 2022
In this wide-ranging discussion, Kevin sits down (actually, they were both standing up) with his RTS colleague, John Fesko, to talk about covenant theology. In addition to doing a deep dive on the covenant of redemption and the covenant of works, Kevin and John talk about life and ministry and writi
We Live in Confusing Times
April 4, 2022
I know, it’s complicated. But don’t worry, the less you think about it the more it will make sense.
The Biggest Story Bible Storybook with Don Clark
March 31, 2022
In this bonus episode, Kevin talks with the brilliant artist, Don Clark, Kevin’s co-collaborator on The Biggest Story and on (their new book) The Biggest Story Bible Storybook. In this fascinating conversation, Don talks about the joys and challenges of working on such a massive project and how he g
Worship as Covenant Renewal
March 24, 2022
The historic liturgy of the Christian church did not originate in evangelicalism, or in the Reformation, or in Europe. It grew out of Old Testament (and then New Testament) assumptions about what it meant for God’s people to gather and renew the covenant.
Lessons Learned with Justin Taylor and Collin Hansen
March 23, 2022
The band gets back together to talk about lessons learned from the two biggest events of the past two years: Covid and the war in Ukraine. Without pretending to be experts in infectious diseases or in international affairs, the three amigos explore what we can learn about humility, evil, tradeoffs,
The Dangers of Digital Discourse
March 21, 2022
In an age where digital immediacy can be confused for personal intimacy, we often forget that public communication will not have all the features of private communication.
Is Every Sin the Same in God’s Eyes?
March 17, 2022
As much as it shows admirable humility or apologetic concern, we must not act or teach as if every sin is the same in God’s eyes.
Defending Shame with Te-Li Lau
March 9, 2022
We think of shame as destructive, manipulative, and toxic. And it can be all those things. But shame can also be a powerful and healthy part of our moral formation. In this fascinating conversation, Kevin talks to Te-Li Lau, a professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, about his recent book D
American History and the Historian’s Task with Wilfred McClay
February 23, 2022
Please note: Unfortunately the audio on this episode cuts in and out from time to time. Kevin is joined by the distinguished historian, Dr. Wilfred McClay as the two of them talk about the task of the historian in being a “recording angel” of the past. After discussing McClay’s perceptive article “T
What’s Going Right in the Church?
February 9, 2022
In this episode, Kevin is joined once again by Justin and Collin as they discuss all that is going right in the church. While there are many problems we can—and at times should—point out, there are also many signs of blessing, reform, and faithfulness in the church today. Kevin, Justin, and Collin m
Natural Law and Natural Theology with Andrew Walker
January 27, 2022
Andrew Walker, a professor of ethics at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and the managing editor for World Opinions, comes on to talk with Kevin about the importance of natural law and natural theology. Although some Protestants reject natural law, and others are nervous about it because of
Puritans, Preaching, and Productivity with Joel Beeke
December 25, 2021
Dr. Joel Beeke is the president of Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary, a pastor of the Heritage Reformed Congregation in Grand Rapids, and editorial director of Reformation Heritage Books. In this conversation, Dr. Beeke, Kevin, and Justin dive into the theological and historical world of the Pur
What We Love About Christmastime
December 15, 2021
Kevin and Collin enjoy a fun conversation about the best parts of the Advent/Christmas season, as well as some of those things that are just more annoying. Plus, by popular demand, time management and productivity tips! Learn how Kevin manages to read so many books and also be present for his family
Evangelism, with William Taylor
November 18, 2021
From the 2021 Faithful Conference, Kevin interviews keynote speaker William Taylor. Taylor is the rector of St. Helen’s Church in Bishopsgate, London. There is a lot of fun banter, book recommendations, and a wealth of advice about evangelism, but what shines through most clearly is William Taylor’s
'A Theology of Paul and His Letters,' with Dr. Douglas Moo
November 2, 2021
Dr. Douglas Moo, theologian and professor at Wheaton, joins Kevin, Collin, and Justin to talk about his new and substantial contribution, A Theology of Paul and His Letters. Weighing in at 784 pages, there is a lot to unpack. Among the topics they cover are: how to balance text and tradition, the bi
Evangelical Elites
October 19, 2021
How do you use the term ‘elite?’ Is it positive or is it a term of derision? Elites, and especially Evangelical elites, have been criticized a lot lately. Collin, Kevin, and Justin have given this matter some consideration, and on this episode they offer their thoughts, turning the focus both intern
‘Robert E. Lee: A Life’, with Dr. Allen Guelzo
October 6, 2021
On this episode, Kevin interviews Civil War historian Dr. Allen Guelzo , Senior Research Scholar at Princeton. Dr. Guelzo’s new biography of Robert E. Lee paints a portrait of neither a sinner nor a saint, but a full picture of a complex human being. Dr. Guelzo is a historian with a solid theologica
Abortion, Threats to the Church, and Depicting Jesus
September 21, 2021
In this episode Kevin and Justin take a long, hard look at abortion in America. With the new law in Texas making news, and a potential challenge to Roe v. Wade, they help us get back to basics with practical resources for changing hearts and minds regarding abortion. They also ask where the primary
Thinking Biblically About Abuse, with Jim Newheiser
August 24, 2021
In this episode, Kevin is joined by Dr. James Newheiser, theDirector of the Christian Counseling Program and Associate Professor ofChristian Counseling and Pastoral Theology at RTS Charlotte. Attitudes towardabuse, both inside and outside the church, have changed dramatically withinrecent generation
Afghanistan, Olympics, & Mars Hill
August 16, 2021
Catching up with friends after a long summer is one of the great joys of life. In this first episode of Season 4, Kevin, Collin, and Justin chat about some of their summer activities as well as some of the events that are currently happening in our world. They range from the serious (How should we p
The Meaning of America
June 28, 2021
For this special Independence Day bonus episode, Kevin goes solo to talk about what America means and how Christians should relate to our nation. The most contentious debates that we currently have are about history, and we can’t agree on which story to tell about America. Kevin examines two books t
"Lament for a Father," with Marvin Olasky
May 17, 2021
In his new book, Lament for a Father: The Journey to Understanding and Forgiveness, Marvin Olasky, editor of WORLD Magazine , puts all his journalistic expertise and experience into uncovering the story of his father. Life and Books and Everything is sponsored by Crossway, publisher of Recovering th
Moving Past Despair
May 5, 2021
When you consider the prospects for Christians right now, you might think they would be in despair. And you might be right. There is a lot of evidence that things are not going well. Kevin, Collin, and Justin look at several specific phenomena that would cause despair. And then they give us things t
Gospelbound, with Sarah Zylstra
April 20, 2021
The only way we can move forward in the church is by going back to the Gospel. Journalism and education have become intrinsically destabilizing forces for Christianity, and anxiety is at an all-time high. Sarah Zylstra and Collin Hansen have written Gospelbound: Living with Resolute Hope in an Anxio
Men and Women in the Church
April 5, 2021
There is much at stake in God making humanity male and female. Created for one another yet distinct from each other, a man and a woman are not interchangeable—they are designed to function according to a divine fittedness. But when this design is misunderstood, ignored, or abused, there are dire con
Who’s to Blame for the Atlanta Shootings?
March 22, 2021
Kevin DeYoung podcasts solo this time to help us understand from a Biblical perspective the wickedness of the Atlanta shootings. He picks apart four threads that feed into how we measure culpability for heinous public crimes. And he helps us distinguish what should be condemned from what shouldn’t.
COVID-19 a Year Later: Perspectives from Pastor and Doctor Miguel Núñez
March 10, 2021
Dr. Miguel Núñez, Pastor for Preaching & Vision at IBI and President of Ministerios Integridad & Sabiduría, left his medical practice to follow his passion of preaching the Gospel. When COVID-19 broke out in 2020, he used his medical expertise to assess the situation for The Gospel Coalition. Now, o
Stephen J. Nichols on R.C. Sproul
February 15, 2021
Stephen J. Nichols is President of Reformation Bible College, Chief AcademicOfficer for Ligonier, and host of the 5 minutes in Church History podcast. He’s the co-editor of Crossway’s Theologians of the Christian Life series, and the reason he joins us for this episode is his new biography of R.C. S
Tim Keller on Reformed Resurgence
February 1, 2021
Timothy Keller, the founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Manhattan, is the special guest for this conversation. Along with Collin, Justin, and Kevin, Tim Keller discusses the Reformed movement itself, The Gospel Coalition, and what comes next in Evangelicalism. Along the way you’ll hea
Division, Whataboutism, & Christian Nationalism
January 20, 2021
Why is it so hard to acknowledge when our opponents get something right? Orto admit when we are wrong? Why do so few people see that BOTH this issue AND that issue can be right or wrong? Collin, Justin, and Kevin discuss these divisions that we experience on this episode. They also ask, “What is Chr
John Piper Talks Books
January 6, 2021
John Piper sits down with Kevin DeYoung to discuss human purpose, pastoral leadership, the advantages of reading slowly. And of course they discuss books, too. So many books. Reading them; writing them; loving them; but most of all desiring God through them. (See the full list below.) And in this co
How Did Sexual Identity Politics Win?, with Carl Trueman
November 24, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Carl Trueman joins Kevin, Justin, and Collin to discuss his latest book, published by Crossway, which analyzes the development of the sexual revolution as a symptom—rather than the cause—of the human search for identity. You’ll also learn the benefit
Live Conversation with J. Ligon Duncan, III
November 17, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin DeYoung interviews Dr. J. Ligon Duncan, III, chancellor of Reformed Theological Seminary. This interview was recorded live on stage from the Faithful Conference at Christ Covenant on November 7th. Listen and you’ll learn the books and people an
What the 2020 Election Means
November 9, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin, Collin, &Justin wrestle with the current state of the 2020 election. Why doesn’t it seemto be a clear victory for the Left or the Right? What does it mean for thechurch? Does your vote have an inherent meaning, or is it entirely dependentupon
The Trinity and Evangelicalism, with Dr. Scott Swain
October 28, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Dr. Scott Swain—Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary—joins Kevin, Justin, and Collin to discuss his book, The Trinity: An Introduction. Listen in to hear about recent controversies surrounding the doctrine of the trinity,
Why Christians Should Be More Involved with Politics, with Jeff McAlvey
October 21, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Jeff McAlvey joins Kevin and Justin to discuss the Christian’s role in politics. Jeff worked closely with Michigan Governor John Engler in the 90s, oversaw the state appropriations process when Governor Engler was the Senate Majority Leader, and star
Team Compassion vs. Team Courage
October 7, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin, Justin, and Collin are back together to discuss some of the more pressing issues facing the church today: sexual misconduct and allegations, this time concerning the late Ravi Zacharias, friendless pastors, the curse of fame, dangers facing th
'Bavinck: A Critical Biography,' with Dr. James Eglinton
September 30, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Dr. James Eglinton joins Kevin to discuss his latest work, Bavinck: A Critical Biography. Listen in for a fascinating look at the history of the modern Reformed tradition as told through the story of one of its greatest theologians, Herman Bavinck. T
The Religious Fervor of American Politics
September 23, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin, Collin, and Justin discuss the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and her vacant seat on the Supreme Court, Classic liberalism and its critics, which books were most formative in their youth, and what career they each would have chosen if not for th
We Are in the Time of Judges, Not Revival
September 16, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin, Collin, and Justin discuss the writing process, how things have exponentially changed in the online Christian writing space, what books have most recently moved them, which pastor biographies are their favorite, and what message the church nee
4 Questions for Divisive Topics
September 9, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin shares four questions to ask regarding the most divisive topics in the church today: voting, police shootings, and Coronavirus. Kevin also shares 4 book recommendations of some of the most recent and enjoyable titles he has read through. This e
Discerning My Vocation, with Dr. Julius Kim
September 2, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor are joined by Dr. Julius Kim—President of The Gospel Coalition—to discuss each other’s seminary experiences, issues in evangelicalism, how to discern one’s vocational calling, how to be a better preache
Tears Do Not Equal Repentance
August 26, 2020
In this episode of Life and Books and Everything, Kevin, Collin, and Justin discuss the recent scandal involving Jerry Falwell Jr. and the difference between a therapeutic confession and one that admits guilt and sin, what habits of rest and recreation they practice, what their favorite biblical com
Whom Am I Risking For?
August 19, 2020
Season 2 of Life and Books and Everything is here! Kevin DeYoung, Justin Taylor, and Collin Hansen sit down together to discuss their summer reading lists, how to balance the need for safety and the need to trust God's sovereignty in the pandemic, Grace Community Church and their choice to gather in
In Memory of J. I. Packer
August 10, 2020
Originally released on July 17th, 2020, in this special episode of 'Life and Books and Everything,' Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor remember their friend J. I. Packer as they share about his influence broadly and personally.
Disagreements About Systematic Racism, How to Approach History, and Recommended Books on Slavery
August 10, 2020
Originally released on June 10th, 2020, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor discuss the morality of laughter, the aftermath of George Floyd's murder, their disagreements about systematic racism, how to approach history, and their recommended books on slavery.
Five Books to Take On a Desert Island, Why The News Makes You Dumb, and Why Politics is the True National Pastime
August 10, 2020
Originally released on June 23rd, 2020, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor discuss the five books they would take on a desert island, why the news makes you dumb, and why politics is the true national pastime.
Cancel Culture, The Inner-Ring, New Statues That Should Be Built, and Summer Reading Lists
August 10, 2020
Originally released on July 1st, 2020, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor discuss cancel culture, the inner-ring, new statues that they think should be built, and their summer reading lists.
An Airing of Grievances
August 10, 2020
Originally released on May 12th, 2020, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor discuss the following: an airing of grievances in honor of Frank Costanza, how to accept criticism, the unique challenges of social media, best books on preaching and ministry, books we re-read, and what makes for
Tearing Down Statues, Kneeling During the National Anthem, the Imago Dei, Favorite Writers
August 10, 2020
Originally released on June 16th, 2020, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor discuss the tearing down of statues, kneeling during the National Anthem, what it means that we're made in the image of God, their favorite writers, and how to avoid bad writing.
George Floyd and Books on Policing, Justice, and Civil Rights
August 10, 2020
Originally released on June 2nd, 2020, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor discuss George Floyd, the need for leaders with character, and books they recommend related to policing, justice, and civil rights.
Conspiracy Theories, Parallels Between COVID-19 and 2004, Expertise and Authority, and Favorite Biographies
August 10, 2020
Originally released on May 20th, 2020, Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor cover the following in the 5th episode of 'Life and Books and Everything': an airing of gratitude, conspiracy theories, parallels between COVID-19 and 2004, expertise and authority, our favorite biographies, and w
Too Much of "Everything"
August 10, 2020
Originally released on May 5th, 2020, this episode of 'Life and Books and Everything' admittedly covers too much of "everything," ranging from Star Wars to Mother's Day to infertility to regional U.S. differences to the COVID-19 re-open to social media as the message to how we read and retain and mo
One or All of the Three
August 10, 2020
Originally released on April 27th, 2020, this is episode 2 of the first season of 'Life and Books and Everything,' with Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor.
Good Friends
August 10, 2020
Originally released on April 21st, 2020, this episode is the soft launch for 'Life and Books and Everything ' with Kevin DeYoung, Collin Hansen, and Justin Taylor.
Trailer
August 5, 2020
A short piece about what to expect when you listen to Life and Books and Everything.