It’s difficult to imagine a better person for Christians to acquaint themselves with than John Newton (1725-1807). Though Newton is often remembered for his dramatic conversion, memorable hymns, and courageous activism, his pastoral ministry is often overlooked. Yet few figures from church history more faithfully convey the sweetness of Christ. In this episode, Zack welcomes Ben Robin to the podcast to discuss the legacy of John Newton. They also profile Newton’s hymn “I Asked the Lord that I Might Grow.” Ben Robin is a Pastoral Assistant at Del Ray Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia. He i ..read more

In this episode, Zack and Alex discuss the importance of the regulative principle in Christian worship. They also profile the Baptist hymn “How Firm a Foundation.” Zack referenced the book "Perspectives on Christian Worship: Five Views": Link  "How Firm a Foundation": Link  ..read more

Perhaps to our surprise, the New Testament offers no instruction about the use of instruments in corporate worship. However, the inspired authors are concerned that God's people sing when they gather. This means that though the use of instruments may be warranted according to Scripture, it is of most importance that the church's music adorn the voices of God's people. In this episode, Zack and Alex discuss the value of a cappella singing. They also profile the hymn "Not What My Hands Have Done" by Horatius Bonar. "Not What My Hands Have Done" link    ..read more

In this episode, Zack and Alex reflect on their experience of the Psalms in gathered worship. They emphasize the profound value of singing and preaching the Psalms. They also present five Psalms you can sing in your church any Lord's Day. · Psalm 103 (Praise My Soul the King of Heaven) o Lyrics  o Tune  · Psalm 100 (All People that On Earth Do Dwell) o Lyrics  o Tune  · Psalm 19 (Jehovah’s Perfect Law) o Lyrics  o Tune  · Psalm 23 (The King of Love My Shepherd Is) o Lyrics  o Tune  · Psalm 42 (Lord, from Sorrows Deep I Call) o Lyrics  o Tune  ..read more

In this episode, Zack and Alex discuss the importance of Christ's identity as King. They also profile the classic hymn "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name ..read more

When Christians sing spiritual songs, they do so with the Spirit of God within them. The Holy Spirit empowers Christians to fight their sin, renew their minds, and grow in godliness. Part of this means that a living faith in Christ will always manifest itself in spiritual fruit: a transformed life, righteousness, clean hands, a pure heart. Simply put, character matters. In this episode, Aaron Menikoff returns to discuss sanctification in the Christian life. They also profile the Sovereign Grace Hymn, “All Praise to Him.” Aaron Menikoff is senior pastor of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church in Atlanta ..read more

In this Good Friday episode of Hymn Talk, Zack and Alex discuss the importance of Christ’s Passion ministry. They also consider the place of reflection and lament in gathered worship.  Recording of “O Dearest Jesus”: https://youtu.be/9IWD4ShZrNc ..read more

By general consensus, Jonathan Edwards is the greatest theologian in American history. Edwards’ reflections and insights on the Christian life remain just as keen today as they were in the 18th century. Time would fail to tell of all the ways he has impacted the church for good. In this episode, Zack welcomes Justin Deeter to discuss Jonathan Edwards’ life and legacy. They consider Edwards’ thoughts and impact on the First Great Awakening, Christian joy, and corporate worship. They also discuss the Getty hymn “My Worth is Not in What I Own.” Justin Deeter is the Lead Pastor of Redemption Churc ..read more

For scores of people, a new year brings fresh hope – hope for new beginnings, new insights, new ideas, new opportunities, and new challenges. Many Christians face a new year with renewed vigor for spiritual growth. Even local churches (gatherings of Christians) long for refreshment and reform in the new year. Sadly, countless churches find themselves in decline and in desperate need of new life. In this first Hymn Talk of 2021, Zack welcomes Aaron Menikoff to discuss the topic of Church Revitalization. They consider the need and nature of Church Revitalization along with the hymn “Reformation ..read more

Charles Spurgeon is not only one of the most influential Baptists in church history, but he remains one of the most prominent evangelicals that has ever lived. Known primarily for his writing and preaching in London, he’s less remembered for his activism and mercy ministry. Thankfully, Alex has just finished a dissertation on this aspect of Spurgeon’s life. In this episode, Zack interviews Alex on the topic, and they also profile Joseph Hart’s hymn “Come Ye Sinners ..read more