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A podcast all about the Bible, theology, and all things related to the Christian faith.

Rooted in the Restoration Movement

Featured Book

Conformed to the Image of His Son: Reconsidering Paul’s Theology of Glory in Romans

With its soaring affirmations and profound statements of salvation in Christ, Romans 8 is a high point in Pauline theology. But what does Paul mean when in 8:29 he speaks of being “conformed to the image of his Son”? Remarkably, there has been little scholarly attention awarded to this Pauline statement of the goal of salvation. And yet in Christian piety, preaching, and theology, this is a treasured phrase. Surprisingly, its meaning has been variously and ambiguously expressed. Is it a moral or spiritual or sanctifying conformity to Christ, or to his suffering, or does it point to an eschatological transformation into radiant glory? In Conformed to the Image of His Son, Haley Goranson Jacob probes and reopens a text perhaps too familiar and a meaning too often assumed. If conformity to the image of the Son is the goal of salvation, a proper understanding is paramount. Jacob points out that the key lies in the meaning of “glory” in Paul’s biblical-theological perspective and in how he uses the language of glory in Romans. For this investigation of glory alone, her study would be valuable for the fresh understanding she brings to Paul’s narrative of glory. But in introducing a new and compelling reading of Romans 8:29, this is a study that makes a strong bid to reorient our understanding of Paul’s classic statement of the goal of salvation.

About the Show

Ryan and Brian’s Bible Bistro got its start the summer of 2020. Ryan, a former student of Brian’s at Lincoln Christian College, called Brian to discuss a theology book he was reading. That sparked a two-hour conversation, and the idea that others might also be interested in talking about these topics. Brian called his office “The Bistro” while he was teaching at LCC, because he wanted it to be a place of discourse and conversation. It is that same idea that Ryan and Brian are bringing to this podcast. They discuss the Bible, theology, and all things related to the christian life and have a bit of fun while doing it. Join them every Tuesday in the Bistro and learn more about your faith.

Meet the Hosts

Ryan Sarver

Ryan was a student of Brian’s at Lincoln Christian College almost twenty years ago — not a good student, but a student nonetheless. He graduated with a degree in worship ministry and worked in the local church for several years. Now, Ryan owns and operates a video production and marketing company, telling stories for non-profits and businesses.  

Ryan loves reading books on theology and engaging in conversations. He and his wife, Lauren, share two children and live in the Indianapolis area. One of his claims-to-fame is making the best popcorn ever — just ask his kids.

Ryan’s favorite movie is The Tree of Life. He enjoys all kinds of ethnic foods, as well as pour-over coffee — keep your K-cups to yourself 🙂

Brian Johnson

Brian loves to teach the Bible, and he also loves a great cup of coffee! His students always appreciate his ability to make difficult concepts relatable. They also appreciate his sense of humor — well … most of the time. Throughout his career, Brian has taught all kinds of students in church, college, and seminary, both in the U.S. and internationally.

Brian really enjoys traveling, especially when there are good hikes and camping along the way. He shares those adventures with his wife, Josanne. Josanne and Brian have three children and one daughter-in-law.

Brian’s favorite movie of all time is Casablanca. He likes all kinds of food — no wonder he called his office “The Bistro.”

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