Discipline is often handled like a hot potato–something we’d rather not touch. Yet when Synod 2026 adopted recommendations on church discipline and accountability, it addressed questions that have existed in the Reformed tradition for centuries. Rev. Ken Benjamins joins the Banner Podcast to explain
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.A few months
The hymn began just as it always does.“When peace like a river attendeth my way … .”The congregation's voices swelled, the organ warmed the sanctuary, and something familiar rose up like the tide. I’ve sung this song dozens of times, maybe more. It’s one of the great hymns of the faith, one I love d
Most nights I forget the moon is there, but every once in a while it winks out from behind a cloud, and I marvel at this part of God’s good creation.The Bible and science tell us the moon was created after the earth. Genesis describes the moon as a “lesser light to rule the night” that was created o
Reports to Synod 2026 show the CRC becoming increasingly diverse through immigrant congregations and mission. Brazilian pastor Jean Gomez joins the Banner Podcast to share his journey to the CRC and to reflect on these developments. This episode explores cultural identity, evangelism, and how remain
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.Today, if you
When Synod 2026 considered the CRC’s relationship with other denominations and alliances, delegates asked deeper questions. Jim Hollandoner walks us through the CRC’s different levels of ecumenical partnership and the reasoning around Synod 2026’s decisions. The conversation explores the importance
Why do we practice child baptism?The baptism debate is often framed as an either-or: either you baptize children (paedobaptism) or you baptize those who profess faith (credobaptism—either older children or adults). For some of our brothers and sisters in Christ, as in the Baptist tradition, this is
As the primary trainer of our denomination’s pastors for the past 150 years, Calvin Theological Seminary often found itself at the center of recent conversations about CRC identity and confessional commitments. President Jul Medenblik joins The Banner Podcast to explain how the seminary understands
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.Assumptions c
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.This is the p
Christian nationalism means different things to different people, making thoughtful reflection difficult. Rev. John Lee joins the Banner Podcast to explain why Synod 2026 commissioned a study committee, why clear definitions matter, and how the CRC hopes to provide “more light than heat” – offering
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.My dad had so
What decision received unanimous approval at Synod 2026? What plan signaled a renewed sense of mission and hope for the CRC’s future? Guests Scott VanderPloeg and Tim Sheridan join our hosts in exploring the CRC’s new 10-year plan of prayer, disciple-making, leadership investment, church planting, a
My dad used to say, “Lora, there’s an invisible magnifying glass in your hand. You can put it on yourself and your problems look real big. Or train that glass upon your Savior. Magnify the Lord. Everything gets in perspective.”I pray Synod 2026 will be remembered for a magnifying glass put on Jesus
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.*Editor’s Not
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.For many year
I enjoy my job, but my company is making it harder to combine work with a young family. Should I look for a new job?We often think of vocation as our paid work, but a job is also a business contract. Furthermore, vocation is more than our jobs: God calls us to faithfulness in every area of life. Whi
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.The invitatio
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.Two weeks ago