Episodes

  • On Christian Doctrine Book III Chapters 1 to 5

    On Christian Doctrine Book III Chapters 1 to 5
    Jun 24 2026
    In which the diligent seeker of God’s truth is guided through the careful examination of scriptural ambiguities, whether arising from punctuation, pronunciation, or figurative language, always employing the rule of faith and contextual understanding to discern meaning rightly. It is gently warned that to grasp the spirit rather than cling blindly to the letter is life-giving, while a slavish literalness of metaphorical expressions imprisons the soul in darkness.
    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
  • On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 32 to 42

    On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 32 to 42
    Jun 23 2026
    In which the arts of reasoning, definition, eloquence, and number are shown not as man’s inventions, but as truths discovered under God, to be used humbly and not vaingloriously. Whatever learning is found among the heathen may be taken for Christ’s service, yet Scripture surpasses it all, and must be approached with meekness, charity, and a heart purified from pride.
    Show More Show Less
    27 mins
  • On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 25 to 31

    On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 25 to 31
    Jun 22 2026
    In which the nature of human institutions—both superfluous and necessary—is carefully examined with regard to their origins, functions, and propriety for the Christian mind, and the role of various branches of knowledge in aiding the understanding of Scripture is thoughtfully considered. This discourse gently distinguishes between useful learning, such as history, natural science, and dialectics, and matters to be shunned, guiding the faithful in forming right judgment without falling into superstition or vain disputation.
    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
  • On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 19 to 24

    On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 19 to 24
    Jun 21 2026
    In which the nature of heathen knowledge is carefully examined, revealing a distinction between human institutions steeped in superstition and the observation of divine order, particularly regarding the misguided use of astrology and omens. It is gently shown that such practices, being entwined with deception and demonic complicity, lead souls astray from the true worship of God and into enslavement to vain and perilous signs.
    Show More Show Less
    17 mins
  • On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 14 to 18

    On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 14 to 18
    Jun 20 2026
    In which the careful student is guided in discerning the meaning of unfamiliar words and idioms, whether foreign or native, through patient inquiry, comparison, and the diligent exercise of memory, while reverent regard is given to the authoritative Septuagint and Itala translations as aids to understanding the sacred texts. Further, it is shown that a familiarity with language, the natural world, number symbolism, and even music—despite its profane associations—enlightens the figurative expressions of Scripture, and that truth, wherever found, must be embraced with discernment, separating the edifying from the profane.
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 8 to 13

    On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 8 to 13
    Jun 19 2026
    In which the sacred Scriptures are carefully delineated by their canonical stature and the prudent interpreter is guided to prefer those most widely received by the Church, with an earnest exhortation to humble and diligent study, beginning with the plain and progressing to the obscure. The nature of language and translation is examined, revealing how knowledge of original tongues and attentive comparison can illuminate obscurities, correct errors, and foster a deeper, unpretentious understanding of holy writ beyond mere linguistic purity.
    Show More Show Less
    20 mins
  • On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 1 to 7

    On Christian Doctrine Book II Chapters 1 to 7
    Jun 18 2026
    In which the nature and varieties of signs are gently explored, distinguishing natural tokens from those crafted by human intention, with an especial regard to words as the chief medium of thought conveyed. The discourse further guides the reader through the stages of divine wisdom, beginning with the fear of God and culminating in a purified heart that perceives truth, revealing the sacred Scriptures as a journey both plain and veiled, designed to nourish a humble and steadfast soul.
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins
  • On Christian Doctrine Book I Chapters 30 to 40

    On Christian Doctrine Book I Chapters 30 to 40
    Jun 17 2026
    In which the nature of neighbourly love is gently extended to include angels, and the use of Scripture is tenderly guided toward nurturing love of God and neighbour above all else. The discourse further contemplates the proper manner of engaging with Scripture—one that fosters faith, hope, and charity—leading the soul to rest ultimately in the boundless love of the Divine.
    Show More Show Less
    19 mins