The Gospel Coalition

Aug 27, 2025 • 48 min

In this lecture, Don Carson delves into Revelation 4, presenting a vivid portrayal of God's throne room. Carson emphasizes the holiness and sovereignty of God, highlighting the worship of celestial beings. Carson underscores the significance of this vision for believers, offering encouragement to remain steadfast and hopeful amidst trials, as it reaffirms God's ultimate authority and divine purpose. He teaches the following: How God's throne in Heaven symbolizes His supreme authority How a rainbow encircling the throne symbolizes God's covenant and mercy The twenty-four elders surrounding the throne represent the redeemed people of God All things were created by God's will and exist for His pleasure The repeated proclamation of "Holy, holy, holy" underscores God's absolute purity and separateness Revelation 4 emphasizes that God reigns over all creation, despite the world’s perspective How Revelation 4 reminds believers to remain faithful amidst trials Vivid descriptions in Revelation highlight the transcendence and mystery of God's nature Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 22, 2025 • 1h 4m

Don Carson discusses the concept of flexibility in gospel proclamation based on 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. He explains how Paul adapted his message to different audiences, emphasizing the need to win people to Christ without compromising the gospel. Carson considers John Travis's "C1 to C6 spectrum" of Christ-centered communities in light of Paul's message, and highlights the importance of flexibility in evangelism while maintaining the integrity of the gospel message. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 20, 2025 • 50 min

In this lecture, Don Carson explores the distinctive role of apocalyptic literature in biblical theology. Carson highlights how its vivid imagery and symbolism convey transcendent truths about God, moral absolutes, and the ultimate fulfillment of biblical themes. Carson underscores the genre's effectiveness in evangelism, teaching believers to anticipate Christ's return, and revealing the cosmic dimensions of spiritual conflict. He teaches the following: How apocalyptic literature employs vivid imagery to convey transcendent truths How Revelation draws upon earlier scriptures, weaving them into a comprehensive vision of God's ultimate purposes Why the phrase "I will be their God, and they will be my people" reaches its fulfillment in Revelation Apocalyptic literature provides a cosmic perspective on spiritual conflict How this genre highlights the sovereignty of God over all events How the symbolic language of apocalyptic literature invites deeper reflection Why preaching apocalyptic texts requires careful exegesis Apocalyptic texts remind the church of its eschatological hope and the promise of Christ's return Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 13, 2025 • 45 min

In this lecture, Don Carson teaches that Jesus Christ must remain the central focus in interpretations of the Book of Revelation. Carson critiques various scholarly approaches that often marginalize Christ, urging that all aspects of Revelation are inseparable from His death and resurrection. Carson underscores that Revelation presents a grand vision of Christ's mediatorial kingship and priesthood, culminating in the New Heaven and New Earth. He teaches the following: Why Revelation should be read with Jesus at its center, as both the agent and substance of God's revelation How Revelation highlights Jesus's fulfillment of Old Testament themes How Revelation 1:12–16 draws from Daniel's vision of the "Ancient of Days” Descriptions of Jesus's authority in Revelation are rooted in the initial vision of His glory Jesus's death and resurrection empower Him to open the seals, unfolding God's purposes Jesus’s authority brings both judgment and salvation–signified by trumpet judgments and the final judgment In the new creation, God will have eternal presence with His people Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 8, 2025 • 45 min

Whether it’s a public scandal captured in the headlines or a private offense held closely in our hearts, many of us have been hurt by others in the church. In this panel discussion from TGC’s 2024 Women’s Conference, Winfree Brisley, Karen Hodge, Ruth Chou Simons, and Irene Sun explore various kinds of church hurt and offer gospel-centered guidance for navigating them both practically and spiritually. They share personal stories, emphasize prayer, humility, and accountability, and remind us why the church—despite its brokenness—is still worth loving as the body of Christ, full of hope and healing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 6, 2025 • 59 min

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses the unique nature of apocalyptic literature, emphasizing its distinct historical context and symbolic language. Carson argues that apocalyptic texts like Revelation can be engaging and evangelistically effective. Carson discusses the importance of understanding these texts within their original setting and literary genre to grasp their full theological significance. He teaches the following: Why apocalyptic literature is often perceived as an "alien genre" The Book of Revelation serves as a primary example of apocalyptic literature, offering a narrative framework with divine revelations How Revelation presents a cosmic perspective on spiritual realities Why apocalyptic literature employs vivid imagery to convey profound truths How Revelation blends apocalyptic and prophetic styles, urging repentance amidst impending judgment Understanding apocalyptic literature requires immersion in its historical and cultural context How engaging with Revelation can enhance preaching, offering rich theological insights and eschatological hope Why this genre's symbolism invites imaginative engagement in preaching Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aug 1, 2025 • 46 min

Are you the wife of a pastor, elder, or seminary student? We want you to know you’re not alone in this unique calling. In this episode from TGC’s 2024 Women’s Conference, Kristie Anyabwile, Christine Hoover, Glenna Marshall, and Kristen Wetherell share an encouraging conversation about loving Jesus and his church, supporting our husbands, and enduring faithfully in ministry. They discuss cultivating a personal walk with Christ, building authentic friendships, navigating marriage and parenting in the spotlight, and embracing Sabbath rest to guard against burnout—offering ministry wives biblical wisdom and hope for the road ahead. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 31, 2025 • 40 min

In this lecture, Don Carson examines 2 Thessalonians 3, offering practical guidance for Christians living between Christ's first and second comings. Carson emphasizes the importance of prioritizing gospel advancement through prayer and cultivating peace amidst a turbulent world. Carson teaches that waiting for the end times involves active obedience, communal responsibility, and reliance on God's faithfulness. He teaches the following: Why believers should distance themselves from those who are idle How Paul emphasized the importance of personal responsibility Believers should live counter culturally, challenging societal norms that contradict biblical teachings The necessity of peace with God through Christ Believers are called to live out the gospel, demonstrating love, perseverance, and responsibility The importance of communal responsibility and discipline in maintaining the integrity of the Christian community Why believers should live in anticipation of Christ's return, allowing hope to shape their daily lives and actions Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 25, 2025 • 53 min

Loving others and communicating respectfully across differences isn’t easy—sometimes it’s not even something we want to do. It’s far more comfortable to stay in circles of sameness than to engage those with different beliefs, backgrounds, and perspectives. In this breakout session from TGC’s 2024 Women’s Conference, Vanessa Hawkins explains how growing in cross-cultural competence is not just helpful for communication—it’s a key part of our spiritual formation as disciples of Christ. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 23, 2025 • 44 min

In this lecture, Don Carson examines 2 Thessalonians 2, offering biblical insight into how Christians should anticipate Christ’s return. Carson emphasizes the importance of being steadfast in faith. Carson discusses the necessity of understanding prophetic events, and he urges believers to stand firm in the truth as they await the fulfillment of God's promises. He teaches the following: Christ’s return is imminent, urging believers to live in constant readiness Why believers should prepare for a potentially extended period before Christ's return Christians should acknowledge God's sovereign election and the blessings already received through the gospel Why believers must remain anchored in truth and God’s eternal promises Why we must reject teachings that promise immediate wealth and health Believers should not succumb to a defeatist mindset that sees the world as beyond redemption Why we should avoid making definitive claims about the timing of Christ's return Christians should allow the anticipation of Christ’s return to shape daily life, priorities, and actions Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 18, 2025 • 54 min

In this keynote from TGC’s 2009 National Conference, Ligon Duncan urges pastors to recover the centrality of the pastoral epistles—1 and 2 Timothy and Titus—as foundational guides for faithful life and ministry. He critiques two persistent errors in the Western church: theological liberalism, which changes the message to suit culture, and methodology divorced from theology, which compromises ministry effectiveness. Drawing from 2 Timothy 4, Duncan exhorts pastors to endure, study diligently, build gospel community, and finish the race with faithfulness rooted in God’s grace and presence. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 16, 2025 • 36 min

In this lecture, Don Carson explores 2 Thessalonians 1, highlighting the centrality of Christ in the believer's life. Carson unpacks how the Thessalonians' faith and love amid persecution reveal God's righteous judgment and the gospel's transforming power. Carson emphasizes perseverance, the hope of Christ's return, and the vital role of prayer in glorifying Christ and sustaining faith. He teaches the following: God is just, and His justice will be ultimately revealed at Christ's return Jesus Christ’s return will bring judgment upon those who do not know God Christ's return will result in the glorification of believers, reflecting the transformative power of the gospel in their lives How Paul’s prayer reflects the importance of divine empowerment in the Christian life The gospel is exclusive in its claim of Christ as the only way to salvation, but it is inclusive in its reach How the gospel enables believers to persevere in faith, hope, and love amidst suffering and opposition. The return of Christ is the ultimate hope for believers, bringing justice, relief, and the fulfillment of God's promises Why believers are called to live in anticipation of Christ’s return Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 11, 2025 • 55 min

In this keynote from TGC’s 2009 National Conference, K. Edward Copeland examines 2 Timothy 3:1–9 to address the dangers of self-centeredness, superficial godliness, and a diluted gospel in the last days. He warns that misdirected love—where people prioritize themselves over God—will infiltrate even the church, leading to a form of religion that lacks true power. Copeland calls pastors to reject performance-based ministry and instead faithfully proclaim the truth of the gospel through the power of the Holy Spirit. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 9, 2025 • 49 min

In this lecture, Don Carson emphasizes the role of Christian leaders as servants of Christ and the importance of faithfulness, humility, and integrity in their leadership. Carson urges Christian leaders to avoid pride, remain accountable to God, and uphold the way of the cross in their lives. Carson stresses the importance of discipline and the need for leaders to serve as models of Christ-likeness within the church and community. He teaches the following: The need for Christian leaders to be seen as servants of Christ The importance of proving faithful to the trust given by Christ The need for Christian leaders to avoid pride and boasting Christian leadership involves being entrusted with the mysteries of God and serving Christ, not just the church The differences between Christian leadership and worldly leadership The importance of accountability structures in the church The qualifications and responsibilities of Christian leaders Why Christian leaders must prove faithful to the One who has entrusted them with their fundamental tasks Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 4, 2025 • 1h

In this keynote from TGC’s 2009 National Conference, Philip Ryken opens 2 Timothy to remind pastors that faithful ministry flows from the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. With encouragement from Paul’s example and the courage of Onesiphorus, Ryken calls ministers to hold fast to sound doctrine, endure criticism, and entrust the gospel to others. He urges weary pastors to find strength in Christ’s resurrection and assurance in God’s unwavering faithfulness—even when their own faith feels weak. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 2, 2025 • 54 min

In this lecture, Don Carson discusses 1 Corinthians 3, highlighting the Apostle Paul's warning against factionalism and emphasizing that Christian leaders are servants of God. The church is portrayed as God's temple, where believers are accountable for how it is treated, and Christian work will be tested by fire. Carson urges believers to value the church's eternal significance, live in unity, and honor the body of Christ with gratitude and reverence. He teaches the following: How 1 Corinthians 3 has been used to teach a unbiblical doctrines A common evangelical interpretation of the passage divides humanity into natural, carnal, and spiritual men Christian leaders are mere servants whose only allegiance should be to God The foundation of the church is Jesus Christ, and leaders must build on this with materials that endure Factionalists ignore the wealth of the Christian heritage, focusing on individual leaders The church is a functioning body animated by God's Spirit Why the church is the only significant institution with eternal significance Why Christians should live with profound gratitude and love for the church Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 27, 2025 • 58 min

In this keynote message from TGC’s 2009 National Conference, John Piper unpacks 2 Timothy 1:1–12 with a powerful call to “fan into flame” the gift of God, urging believers to live with courage, love, and self-control. He highlights the role of grace and the Word in strengthening us to speak and suffer for the gospel without fear or shame. Drawing from Paul’s example and Timothy’s sincere faith, Piper encourages pastors to feed the flame of God’s calling through deep dependence on God’s power and purpose. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 25, 2025 • 50 min

In this lecture on 1 Corinthians 2:6-16, Don Carson emphasizes that the wisdom of God, revealed through the cross, is accessible only through the Holy Spirit. The Spirit helps believers understand and proclaim the wisdom of the cross, which is foundational to spiritual growth and revival. Carson warns against elitism and stresses the importance of humility and the gospel in true spiritual understanding. He teaches the following: How the wisdom of God contrasts with worldly wisdom and the rulers of this age The Holy Spirit searches all things, and only the Spirit of God can understand God's thoughts Why the interpretation of Scripture must be grounded in the Spirit's guidance How the wisdom of the cross is accessible to all believers The differences between the natural person and the spiritual person The cross is the supreme climax of God's self-disclosure to humanity Why the work of the Spirit is essential in both individual conversions and church revivals Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 20, 2025 • 47 min

How can joy be possible—always, right where you are? In this breakout session from TGC’s 2024 Women’s Conference, Ann Voskamp shares how cultivating gratitude is one of the most important ways to prepare for whatever life may hold. Even when we don’t know what’s coming, we can learn to give thanks daily—not because of how we feel, but because of who God is. Voskamp offers practical tools to help you recognize grace in the ordinary, live abundantly, and become more present to God in a way that leads to lasting joy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 18, 2025 • 44 min

In this lecture, Don Carson highlights the original scandal of the cross in the ancient world and its power to divide humanity between those perishing and those being saved. Paul’s message emphasizes that true ministry must center on Christ crucified, not human eloquence or cultural status. Carson warns against modern evangelical distractions and urges a return to the transforming power of the gospel. He teaches the following: The shocking implications of the cross and crucifixion in the first century, and how they are different today Why people often want to set their own criteria for what God should be like God has already passed judgment on the best that the world has to offer through the cross The message of the cross is that God's wisdom and power are displayed in the moment of greatest human weakness Why being wise, powerful, or well-born cannot be a criterion for being a Christian A warning against the idolatries of evangelicalism, such as the love of methods and self-promotion How focusing too much on social and political ramifications can lead to a quiet denial of the gospel The message of the cross is the only polarity in the human race that is of eternal consequence Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.