Theology Unplugged

The New Prophets: Authority, Experience, and the Collapse of Trust Podcast culture is telling us something—and it’s not just about who people are listening to, but why they trust them. As voices like Joe Rogan and Shawn Ryan rise, trust in institutions continues to collapse. Government, media, and even scientific authorities are no longer seen as stable sources of truth. But this does not mean truth itself is disappearing. It means confidence in those who interpret and deliver truth is fading. In this episode, I make a critical distinction: science isn’t collapsing—trust in interpreters of science is. Science is a method. But people don’t live by methods—they live by meaning. And when the messengers lose credibility, people begin looking elsewhere for something to anchor their understanding of reality. The deeper issue is that we are no longer building complete worldviews. Instead, we are assembling beliefs like a playlist—pulling ideas from wherever they resonate without asking whether they actually fit together. But a real worldview must answer real questions: What is ultimate reality? How do we know anything? Are there real morals? What is our purpose? What happens after death? When those questions go unanswered, a vacuum is created. And that vacuum never stays empty. This is where the “new prophets” begin to emerge—not from institutions, but from experience. And in a world that no longer trusts shared authority, experience itself begins to take the throne. This episode sets the stage for understanding how we got here—and why what replaces truth may be far more dangerous than what we lost. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org #TheologyUnplugged #Worldview #Truth #Authority #Postmodernism #Apologetics #ChristianTheology #FaithAndReason #CredoCourses #ThroughTheChurchFathers

Ontological Argument: The Definitive Explanation In this episode, I walk through the ontological argument the way Anselm actually framed it—not the simplified version, but the real thing. God is defined as “that than which nothing greater can be conceived.” Once you understand that definition, the argument starts to press in on you in a way that’s hard to escape. If God exists only in the mind, then a greater being could be conceived—one that exists in reality. But that cannot be, because by definition nothing greater can be conceived. Therefore, God must exist not only in the understanding, but in reality. This all rests on a simple but powerful idea: existence is greater than non-existence. I argue in this episode that this isn’t just a clever philosophical trick—it’s airtight. Not because it forces you, but because once you truly grasp what is being said, you realize that denying it comes at a cost. This may be one of the most compelling explanations for God’s existence you’ve ever heard—because it doesn’t appeal to evidence outside of you, but to something unavoidable within reason itself. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org #TheologyUnplugged #OntologicalArgument #Anselm #PhilosophyOfReligion #ChristianTheology #Apologetics #GodExists #FaithAndReason #CredoCourses #ThroughTheChurchFathers

Basement Theology: Dispensationalism (With Gavin) This is something new—and honestly, something I should have started a long time ago. My nephew Gavin and I sat down in the basement, turned the cameras on, and had an unscripted conversation about dispensationalism. No prep, no polish—just real theology in real time. I’ll be the first to admit, it’s rough. The camera work needs help, the audio has some echo, and we weren’t even using our microphones the way we should have. But that’s not really the point. The point is this: Gavin wants to learn. And instead of waiting until everything is “ready,” we just started talking. That’s where theology actually begins—not in perfect systems, but in honest conversations. I’ve seen this before. When I used to talk with Tad, something changed. Theology became grounded, more accessible, more real. That’s exactly what’s happening here again. This is the beginning of something. If you like this format, let me know. We’ll keep doing more, keep refining it, and see where it goes. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org #BasementTheology #Dispensationalism #TheologyUnplugged #ChristianTheology #Discipleship #CredoHouse #ThroughTheChurchFathers

#81 - The Self-Authentication of Scripture In this episode, we explore what it means to say that Scripture is self-authenticating. If God is the highest authority, then His Word does not require validation from any external source. Drawing from Calvin’s understanding of the internal testimony of the Holy Spirit, we examine why divine revelation stands on its own authority. We walk through Deuteronomy 13, Deuteronomy 18, and Exodus 20:3 to build a biblical framework for recognizing God’s voice. Together, these passages form a clear foundation for understanding how God confirms His own Word. This session continues our journey through theology in a year as we ground our confidence not in shifting human institutions, but in the authority of God Himself. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers - https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses - https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries - https://www.credoministries.org #ThroughTheologyInAYear #SolaScriptura #BiblicalAuthority #SelfAuthentication #ReformedTheology #Scripture #Apologetics #CredoMinistries

#1 - Miracles (Pilot Episode) This is the pilot episode introducing our new journey through Craig S. Keener’s monumental two-volume work **Miracles: The Credibility of the New Testament Accounts**. In this opening session, we talk through why this study matters, how we'll approach it in community, and what makes the topic of miracles so compelling—especially for those of us who sit in the non-charismatic tradition yet remain deeply curious. We explore how Keener frames the global reality of miracle claims, the philosophical assumptions we often bring to the table, and why reevaluating this topic can strengthen—not weaken—our understanding of God’s work in the world. This pilot also lays out the goals for the series: honest inquiry, careful theology, and a place where questions can breathe. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org #Miracles #CraigKeener #TheologyUnplugged #Apologetics #ChristianPhilosophy #Supernatural #ThroughTheChurchFathers #CredoHouse #SystematicTheology

#80 - The Canon of Scripture Is Not Closed Did God ever close the canon of Scripture? In this episode, we explore how the biblical canon was formed-not by decree, but by recognition. From Moses to the apostles, revelation carried its own authority, needing no council to validate it. The canon was accepted organically, as God's people simply received what He had spoken. We also discuss whether the canon is technically closed or only practically so, and why Protestants-unlike any other tradition-are uniquely free to examine the evidence and follow it wherever it leads, even engaging honestly with the Apocrypha. The Church never shut the door on revelation; God simply quit speaking. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers - https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses - https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries - https://www.credoministries.org #BiblicalCanon #Apocrypha #ChurchHistory #Revelation #ProtestantTheology #Scripture #SolaScriptura #ThroughTheChurchFathers #CredoHouse #SystematicTheology

### #79 – The History of the Acceptance of the Apocrypha In this episode, we trace the fascinating and often controversial journey of the Apocrypha—those books sitting between the Old and New Testaments in some Bibles but missing entirely from others. Why were these books accepted by some traditions and rejected by others? How did Jerome, the Reformers, and the Council of Trent each weigh in? Join us as we explore how the Apocrypha was received across Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant lines and why it still sparks debate today. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org #Apocrypha #BiblicalCanon #CouncilOfTrent #Jerome #ChurchHistory #Deuterocanon #ProtestantBible #CatholicTradition #ThroughTheChurchFathers #CredoHouse #SystematicTheology

In this session, we dive into one of the most important differences between Roman Catholic and Protestant theology: justification. What do Catholics mean when they speak of justification as both a process and a state? How does it differ from the Protestant understanding of imputed righteousness by faith alone? This episode carefully unpacks the Catholic view using their own categories—grace, merit, sacraments, and cooperation with God—while also clarifying the classic Protestant response. If you've ever been confused about where the lines are drawn, this episode will help you see both the overlap and the sharp distinctions. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go through the great Fathers of the Faith in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

### #75 – Roman Catholicism: The Apocrypha, Mary, and All the Other Stuff In today’s episode, we take a step back and offer a thoughtful overview of Roman Catholic beliefs—especially those that often seem unfamiliar or confusing to Protestants. From the Apocrypha to Marian dogmas, purgatory, the communion of saints, and the Eucharist, we trace the roots and reasoning behind these doctrines. Whether you’re wrestling with questions about the Catholic view of Mary or trying to understand how the Apocrypha fits into the Catholic Bible, this episode is designed to provide clarity and foster respectful engagement. We’re not here to debate—we’re here to learn. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org #RomanCatholicism #Apocrypha #MarianDogmas #Purgatory #Eucharist #ChurchHistory #ThroughTheChurchFathers #CredoHouse #ProtestantAndCatholic #SystematicTheology #Patristics

In this session, we explore the structure of Roman Catholic authority from a Protestant perspective. What is the Magisterium, and how does it function alongside Scripture and Tradition? What does apostolic succession really mean, and how is infallibility understood? This episode aims to unpack the internal logic of Rome’s authority structure—not to caricature it, but to understand it. My goal is to help Protestants see how it fits together from within the Catholic system, while also offering points of reflection and challenge. If you've ever wondered why Catholics trust the Church in the way they do, this is a great place to start. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go through the great Fathers of the Faith in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

In this episode, I step into unfamiliar territory as a Protestant: making the strongest possible case for the inclusion of the deuterocanonical books—those writings often labeled *Apocrypha* like *Tobit*, *Judith*, *Wisdom*, *Sirach*, and *1–2 Maccabees*. I walk through the theological logic of the Catholic position: the organic relationship between Scripture and Church, the role of apostolic tradition, and why early liturgical use might point to divine inspiration. What if these books weren’t added later—but preserved for a reason? Then, I shift perspectives and respond from a Protestant point of view. I wrestle honestly with the question: How do we define canon? Does apostolicity matter more than usage? Can moral usefulness be confused with divine authority? No history yet—Athanasius, Jerome, Cajetan, and the rest will get their day. This episode is all about setting the theological stage. This is the best Catholic argument I know. And it deserves a serious Protestant answer. Explore the Project: Through the Church Fathers – https://www.throughthechurchfathers.com Patreon – https://www.patreon.com/cmichaelpatton Credo Courses – https://www.credocourses.com Credo Ministries – https://www.credoministries.org

In this first session of our series on Roman Catholicism, we explore its foundations from a Protestant perspective—graciously and truthfully. What is Rome? How did it develop? Why does it matter today? This series invites you to understand the structure, beliefs, and beauty of the Roman Catholic Church, even while wrestling with key differences. Let's get to know Rome—not as outsiders, but as informed family members in the broader story of Christianity. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go through the great Fathers of the Faith in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

In this session, we explore the definition and historical development of the biblical canon. What do we mean when we talk about "the canon of Scripture"? How did the Church recognize which books belonged in the Bible—and when? We will trace the formation of the canon through: – The early church’s criteria for recognizing Scripture – The role of Church Fathers and early councils – The distinction between inspired books and ecclesiastical writings – Disputes over the Old and New Testament books – The influence of figures like Athanasius, Jerome, and the Reformers This teaching lays the historical foundation for understanding how the Church came to affirm the books that make up our Bible. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go through the great Fathers of the Faith in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

Today we explore the legacy of one of the most powerful papal names in Church history—Leo. With the election of Leo the Fourteenth, many are asking what it means to choose that name. We walk through the legacies of Leo the First (Leo the Great), Leo the Third, Leo the Tenth, and Leo the Thirteenth—tracing a line from theological clarity and imperial coronations to Reformation crisis and modern renewal. This isn’t just Church history—it’s our story, and each Leo leaves behind a mark: some healed, some divided, some saved cities, and some changed the Church forever. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go though the great Fathers of the Fath in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

In today’s episode, we dive into Genesis 6 and 1 Kings 22 to crash those neatly packaged theological assumptions. These passages remind us that God intentionally includes the bizarre and the unexpected in Scripture to keep us from getting too comfortable. Just because something is bizarre doesn’t mean it’s not real—our worldview as Christians must embrace the reality of the strange and supernatural. Get ready to have your theological boxes blown wide open! Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go though the great Fathers of the Fath in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

In this episode, we dive deep into one of the clearest and most haunting illustrations of sin in the Bible: Esau trading his birthright for “that red stuff.” What compels us to give up what matters most for something so empty and fleeting? We’ll unpack how sin functions like spiritual impulse buying—a split-second decision that feels urgent but ends in regret. I’ll share a personal story about a season in my life when I traded the calling God gave me for the comfort of pain pills. We’ll also explore a father-son moment that reveals the heart of God in our worst trades—and how grace always leaves room for return. If you’ve ever felt the ache of worthless choices or wondered what “red stuff” might be in your own cart, this episode is for you. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go though the great Fathers of the Fath in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

In this episode of Theology Unplugged, C. Michael Patton explores one of the most personal and humorous tensions in his theological journey: what if we’re still wrong in heaven? What if glorification doesn’t mean omniscience, but sanctified curiosity? From being kicked out of a Calvinist fellowship in the ’90s to debating theology over coffee with Arminians like Paul Copan and Wesleyans like Thomas Oden, Michael reflects on what it means to hold deep conviction without losing humility. He introduces the concept of Mystical Calvinism—a posture that embraces both the doctrines of grace and the infinite mystery of God. Let’s get honest about where our theology actually comes from. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go though the great Fathers of the Fath in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

When we ask, “Who is God?”, we often assume we’re going straight to the Bible. But we’re not. The truth is, every Christian pulls from at least 12 different sources—often unconsciously—when building their theology. In this episode, we look at how things like culture, tradition, emotions, friends, family, reason, pastors, creation, and theologians influence what we believe. Some of these are good. Some are dangerous. But all of them are real. Let’s get honest about where our theology actually comes from. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go though the great Fathers of the Fath in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

Before we ask Who is God?, we have to answer a more foundational question: What is God? In this episode, we walk through four ways people—consciously or unconsciously—define “God”: 1. That Which We Worship – what we value most 2. A Celestial Being – something more powerful than us 3. The Creator (Unmoved Mover) – the source of all things 4. The Greatest Conceivable Being – the perfect, ultimate reality We explore each with vivid examples, cultural references, and Scripture, helping us see that everyone has a "god"—even if they don’t call it that. This is the groundwork for all theological clarity. If we don’t know what we mean by “God,” we’ll misunderstand everything else that follows. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go though the great Fathers of the Fath in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton

In this episode of Through Theology in a Year, C. Michael Patton explores how the canon of Scripture was recognized rather than arbitrarily chosen. He challenges some common fables of canonicity—like the idea that books were accepted based purely on age, apostolic authorship, or language—and instead shows how the early church organically received certain writings as authoritative. It's not about creating a list but about recognizing what had already been carrying the weight of divine authority. Get involved: Michael's public blog: https://credohouse.org Courses and Manuscript Reproductions from Michael and other scholars: https://credocourses.com Join us as we go though the great Fathers of the Fath in a year: https://throughthechurchfathers.com Support me and get A LOT more stuff from C. Michael Patton: https://patreon.com/cmichaelpatton