The determinetruth Podcast

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie kick off an overview of the book of Philippians by diving into chapter 1. They explore what it means when Paul says that "God will complete a good work in you"—does this imply we have no role in our spiritual growth? They also tackle Paul's surprising response to those preaching the Gospel from impure motives: Why doesn’t he rebuke them? And what about the afterlife—do we go to heaven immediately upo...

In this introductory episode on the book of Philippians, Rob and Vinnie explore the historical and cultural background of the city of Philippi. They discuss Lydia—the first convert in Europe—and how her prominence and hospitality supported Paul and Silas in their mission. The episode also unpacks the significance of Philippi as a Roman colony and how that shaped the dynamics of power, status, and citizenship in the early church. Fi...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie discuss Paul's exhortation to put on the "full armor of God" and spiritual warfare. They explore it through several lenses, beginning with the biblical narrative of the kingdom of God versus the kingdoms of the world. They emphasize that Satan wages war through deception, and believers are called to respond with the truth of God’s Word. The conversation also delves into the reality of the demonic and...

So what does Paul say about wives submitting to husbands? And does the Bible endorse slavery? In this episode, Rob and Vinnie explore the household code and Paul's central message to the Ephesians congregation. In doing so, Paul adapted the Roman household code, which was very patriarchal, in light of the Christian ethic and the central command to "Be imitators of God" and "walk in love." 

Here is the link to the image of the umbre...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie continue to provide an overview of the book of Ephesians. They explore the issue of Predestination and Free Will (finally solving this long-held debate). They also lay a foundation for understanding Ephesians in light of the great storyline of God's work in creation. They stress how Ephesians is an exhortation to live in accord with the work that God has done. 

Please "follow" this podc...

In this first episode of our series on Ephesians, Rob and Vinnie explore why Ephesians might be the greatest of all Paul’s letters. We dive into Paul’s powerful use of “In Christ” language, unpacking its significance for understanding the message of Ephesians. We also provide an overview of Paul’s argument in the letter, setting the stage for deeper exploration in future episodes. This is a great starting point for an...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie explore the realities of religious trauma and spiritual abuse—how they manifest, their lasting impact, and why so many have been hurt by the very place meant to offer healing. We discuss how the church has too often been a source of harm rather than refuge and what it truly means to be a place of restoration and grace. What does a Christ-centered response to spiritual abuse look like? Join us as we e...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie interview NT scholar Sandra Glahn to discuss her book Nobody's Mother. Sandra argues that understanding the historical, archaeological, and inscriptional evidence relating to Artemis provides a critical backdrop to Paul's letter to Timothy and his exhortation that wives should not be teaching their husbands because Adam was made first and Eve sinned first, and to the book of Ephesians. 

To learn more...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie sit down again with Bernard Emerson to discuss his work in starting a multi-ethnic church in Oakland, CA. We explore the challenges and joys of blending two congregations from different racial backgrounds, the role of the church in addressing race and justice, and what it takes to build a truly inclusive faith community. Join us for a powerful conversation on unity, reconciliation, and the gospel’s c...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie sit down with Bernard Emerson to discuss his work in starting a multi-ethnic church in Oakland, CA. We explore the challenges and joys of blending two congregations from different racial backgrounds, the role of the church in addressing race and justice, and what it takes to build a truly inclusive faith community. Join us for a powerful conversation on unity, reconciliation, and the gospel’s call to...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie conclude their overview of Galatians and look into Galatians 6. They discuss what the household of God's people (the church) is supposed to look like and what Galatians means for them. 

Please "follow" this podcast and give a review on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your review will go a long way toward helping others find this podcast.

Then share it w...

Rob and Vinnie dive into Galatians 5, exploring the contrast between the deeds of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit. They discuss how Paul’s list of sinful behaviors was meant to be viewed collectively rather than as isolated wrongs, challenging the Galatians' sense of superiority over others. Paul’s emphasis on the fruit of the Spirit wasn’t about rigid moralism but about the freedom found in Christ. But what does it truly mea...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie discuss Galatians 5 and the Fruit of the Spirit. They address questions such as: "What if I stumble and live according to the deeds of the Flesh?: "Doesn't it say that if we live according to the flesh we will not inherit the kingdom?" In this first discussion of the Fruit of the Spirit, Rob and Vinnie examine the Fruit of the Spirit in light of Paul's message to the churches of Galatia. They address...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie continue their dive into the book of Galatians. They discuss the role of the Cross and the Spirit in the book of Galatians. They also "debate" the topic of Paedobaptism (baptism of infants and children) and Credobaptism (often termed "believers baptism). 

Please "follow" this podcast and give a review on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your review will go a long wa...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie finish their look at the central argument in the book of Galatians. They argue that for Paul, Christ is the fulfillment of the OT promises. They then discuss what this means for us today, especially concerning women in the church and ministry. 

Please "follow" this podcast and give a review on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your review will go a long way toward help...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie continue their overview of the book of Galatians by looking at Paul's response to his opponents in Galatia. Paul explains that membership into the community of God's people is not through the "works of the Law" but by Faith in Christ. He then notes that this is what was preached to Abraham! Paul even says that "the Gospel" was preached to Abraham (Gal 3:8). 

Rob and Vinnie then discuss what this mean...

The Xmas story circulating many churches this holiday season has taken the shape of our Western, individualistic, and consumeristic understanding. In this episode, Rob and Vinnie set the record straight (well, they attempt to) by looking at Luke 2. The Xmas (no, this is not taking the "Christ" out of "Christmas"--they discuss this also) is a critical part of the Christian story, and its meaning for us today is also vital. We hope y...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie continue to explore the situation behind the book of Galatians. In particular, they address Paul's understanding that the people of God are no longer defined by the "works of the Law" but by faith in Christ. 

Michael Bird An Anomalous Jew

NT Wright Paul

FF Bruce Apostle of the Heart Set Free 

Please "follow" this podcast and give a review on iTu...

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie provide an introduction to the background of the book of Galatians. They discuss the fragile situation behind the acceptance of Gentiles (non-Jews) in the covenant community and some of the difficulties that ensued in the early church. This background is critical to understanding Galatians and many of the books of the NT. 

PS. Rob and Vinnie are aware that they are having too much fun producing the p...