In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery talks with Dr. Rustin Umstattd, Professor of Theology and Ministry at Midwestern Seminary and pastor at Northland Church in Kansas City, about the importance of understanding the Bible as a unified story. Rustin explains how seeing Scripture as an unfolding narrative—from Genesis to Revelation—transformed both his theological study and pastoral ministry. Together they discuss why biblical theology matters, how genre fits into the Bible’s story, and why reading the whole Bible is essential for understanding Jesus, the gospel, and the Christian life.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

biblical theology, story of Scripture, Old Testament, New Testament, preaching, discipleship, seminary training, Scripture reading, church ministry

Takeaways

• The Bible tells one unified story that centers on Jesus Christ.

• Understanding the story of Scripture helps clarify difficult passages like Hebrews and Melchizedek.

• Systematic theology is strengthened when grounded in biblical theology.

• Reading the whole Bible is essential for making sense of individual books and doctrines.

• Different biblical genres contribute uniquely to the overall story of redemption.

• Teaching and preaching become richer when rooted in the unfolding narrative of Scripture.

• The Bible’s story provides a compelling and objective framework for Christian faith.

Sound Bites

• You don’t need a decoder ring—you need to know the story.

• You can’t make sense of Romans without Genesis through Malachi.

• Once you see how Jesus fulfills the story, you can’t unsee it.

• The Bible’s story proves more than it proposes.

Resources Mentioned

• T. Desmond Alexander, From Eden to the New Jerusalem

• Stephen Dempster, Dominion and Dynasty

• G. K. Beale, A New Testament Biblical Theology

• Bartholomew and Goheen, The Drama of Scripture

• James Hamilton, What is Biblical Theology?

• Geerhardus Vos, Biblical Theology

• Gentry and Wellum, Kingdom Through Covenant

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Rustin Umstattd’s Background

2. 01:30 Discovering the Bible as a Story

3. 03:12 Abraham, Galatians, and the Unity of Scripture

4. 04:29 Hebrews, Melchizedek, and Story Context

5. 05:30 How This Shaped Rustin’s Ministry

6. 08:12 Teaching Theology Through the Story of Scripture

7. 09:50 Preaching and Reading the Bible Biblically

8. 11:30 Story, Culture, and Worldview Formation

9. 12:57 Biblical Genres and the Place of Proverbs

10. 17:19 Stories, Songs, and Scripture’s Power

11. 21:25 Why Whole-Bible Reading Matters

12. 24:49 Recommended Resources on Biblical Theology

13. 28:21 Why the Story of Scripture Validates Faith

14. 30:33 Closing Reflections

In January 2026, students of Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus gathered for an intensive week of class, worship, and fellowship. In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery gathers the professors teaching Winter Week classes—Colton Strother, Ken Parker, Dale Johnson, Wes Pastor, and Todd Chipman—for a conversation on friendship in ministry. They share their experiences of calling, mentoring, seminary friendships, loneliness in modern life, relational vulnerability, and the challenges and blessings of maintaining friendship while serving the church. The panelists offer biblical wisdom, seasoned pastoral insight, and practical strategies for cultivating healthy, life-giving friendships in ministry and in the local church.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

friendship, ministry, seminary, pastoral leadership, loneliness, community, vulnerability, spiritual formation, relationships, church life

Takeaways

• Friendship is essential for long-term faithfulness in ministry and grounded in the relational nature of God.

• Many ministers are first encouraged toward seminary by pastors, mentors, or professors who see gifting and potential.

• Seminary friendships can become lifelong ministry partnerships, especially when grounded in shared calling and service.

• Loneliness is both a cultural and spiritual issue—exacerbated by digital life and healed through embodied Christian community.

• Vulnerability, honesty, and intentionality are key ingredients of meaningful friendship.

• Ministers must pursue friendship both inside and outside their churches, while also cultivating friendship within their families.

• Friendships require proactive effort—through hobbies, shared routines, text threads, or simply making space for people.

• Betrayal is an inevitable risk in ministry, yet the call to love and serve without demanding reciprocity remains central.

Sound Bites

• Real friends are few—and they require vulnerability.

• God uses friendship to steady us in ministry’s ups and downs.

• Loneliness thrives where self-focus grows; love pulls us outward.

• Love is often a one-way street—and that’s okay.

• We flourish when we risk being known and loved.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introductions and Panel Overview

2. 01:50 Panelists’ Ministry Roles and Backgrounds

3. 04:20 Who First Encouraged You Toward Seminary?

4. 09:31 Seminary Friendships and Lifelong Ministry Relationships

5. 14:10 Loneliness in Culture and the Church

6. 17:41 Biblical and Practical Approaches to Isolation

7. 23:04 Vulnerability, Honesty, and Being Known

8. 24:58 Faith, Hope, Love, and Relational Health

9. 26:52 How Busy Ministers Make and Maintain Friendships

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery talks with Kris Raven, pastor of Lakeshore Baptist Church and MBTS doctoral student focusing on the New Testament use of the Old Testament. Kris shares how biblical authors intentionally draw from the Old Testament to shape Christian theology and practice, and how understanding these connections strengthens preaching, discipleship, and the health of local churches. Their discussion covers how Kris first encountered this field of study, how it has shaped his walk with Christ, and why it matters for every believer—especially in a world filled with unhelpful or confused approaches to the Old Testament, such as the Hebrew Roots Movement.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

New Testament use of the Old Testament, biblical theology, hermeneutics, preaching, discipleship, healthy churches, Scripture interpretation, typology, intertextuality

Resources

G. K. Beale, Handbook on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament (Baker)

G. K. Beale and D. A. Carson, eds. Commentary on the New Testament Use of the Old Testament (Baker)

Nick Roark and Robert Cline, Biblical Theology: How the Church Faithfully Teaches the Gospel, 9Marks Building Healthy Churches Series (Crossway)

Blog: Jason DeRouchie, “How to Understand and Apply the Old Testament: Step 10 – Biblical Theology”

Takeaways

• The New Testament frequently quotes, alludes to, and echoes the Old Testament to reveal Christ and God's redemptive story.

• Understanding how biblical authors use earlier Scripture deepens our confidence in the unity of the Bible.

• Careful study prevents misinterpretation and guards churches against unhelpful teaching—including misuses of the Old Testament like the Hebrew Roots Movement.

• Biblical theology helps us see how the entire Bible fits together around Christ.

• Diligent interpretation enriches preaching and strengthens discipleship in the local church.

• Study tools such as Beale’s handbook and commentary can guide pastors and students in understanding intertextual connections.

Sound Bites

• There is intentionality in the way New Testament authors draw from the Old Testament.

• The New Testament is not a new story—it is the continuation and fulfillment of the Old.

• We don’t ignore the Old Testament; we read it through the lens of Christ.

• Diligence in study is an act of love for God and His Word.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Kris Raven’s Background

2. 01:27 What Is the New Testament Use of the Old Testament?

3. 03:27 How Kris First Encountered This Field of Study

4. 04:57 Beale’s Handbook and the Academic Journey

5. 07:43 Why These Connections Matter for Bible Readers

6. 09:31 Examples from John and Hebrews

7. 11:20 How This Study Deepened Kris’s Walk With Christ

8. 12:48 Diligence in Study as Spiritual Formation

9. 14:47 A Real-World Ministry Challenge: Hebrew Roots Movement

10. 15:55 How Understanding NT/OT Use Protects Healthy Churches

11. 17:26 Reading the Old Testament Through the Lens of Christ

12. 21:16 Recommended Resources for Further Study

13. 25:44 Closing Reflections

In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery talks with Nancy Guthrie, author and Bible teacher, about how to wisely and compassionately speak into suffering. Nancy shares her personal story of loss, the lessons she learned about faith and grief, and practical advice for comforting others without causing harm. The conversation explores common mistakes Christians make, how biblical theology shapes our understanding of suffering, and why hope in God’s promises sustains us through pain. Nancy also offers guidance for pastors, friends, and anyone walking alongside those who grieve.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

suffering, grief, pastoral care, biblical theology, sovereignty of God, comfort, lament, faith, hope, Nancy Guthrie

Takeaways

• Faith is not pressuring God for our preferred outcome—it’s trusting His wisdom and goodness.

• Avoid platitudes and phrases that diminish grief; instead, acknowledge the pain.

• Practical help often speaks louder than vague offers—act without waiting to be asked.

• Biblical theology provides a framework for understanding suffering within God’s redemptive story.

• Grief is not something to fix; it’s something to walk through with compassion and patience.

• God promises grace sufficient for every trial, even when He does not remove the pain.

• Hope rests in the future restoration and the end of the curse, not in immediate relief.

Sound Bites

• Faith is not us prescribing to God what He should do—it’s trusting Him when we don’t understand.

• Don’t say ‘at least’—it diminishes the loss.

• My grace is sufficient for you—God’s promise for every sufferer.

• Biblical theology helps us see suffering in light of the whole story of Scripture.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Nancy Guthrie’s Background

2. 02:06 Nancy’s Story of Loss and Faith

3. 08:21 Wrestling with Prayer and God’s Sovereignty

4. 13:43 Lessons Learned Through Grief

5. 19:23 Common Missteps in Comforting Others

6. 24:50 What Really Helps and What Hurts

7. 32:40 Practical Ways to Serve Those Who Suffer

8. 37:46 How Biblical Theology Shapes Our View of Suffering

9. 46:06 The Hope of Resurrection and Renewal

10. 51:09 Go-To Scriptures for Comfort

11. 56:35 God’s Grace in the Midst of Pain

12. 01:00:33 Trusting Again After Hurt

13. 01:07:26 Closing Reflections

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery talks with Sam Whittaker, Teaching Pastor at South Valley Community Church and instructor at Midwestern Seminary’s Global Campus, about the role of imagination in theology and apologetics. Sam shares how his discovery of imaginative apologetics transformed his approach to ministry and study. Drawing on insights from C. S. Lewis, Tolkien, and others, Sam explains why imagination is not opposed to reason but complements it as the organ of meaning. The conversation explores practical ways to engage imagination in evangelism, discipleship, and preaching, and offers resources for those who want to learn more.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

imaginative apologetics, theology, C.S. Lewis, Tolkien, sanctified imagination, evangelism, discipleship, worldview, storytelling, Christian literature

Takeaways

• Imagination is the organ of meaning; reason is the organ of truth.

• Evangelical apologetics often emphasize reason but neglect imagination.

• Stories, metaphors, and images can bypass intellectual defenses and reach the heart.

• Jesus used parables to communicate truth imaginatively.

• Great literature and art can prepare the soil for gospel conversations.

• Feed your imagination with Scripture, classic myths, and enduring stories.

• Resources like Lewis, Tolkien, and Holly Ordway help integrate imagination into apologetics.

Sound Bites

• Reason is the organ of truth; imagination is the organ of meaning.

• We must make good men wish Christianity were true—and then prove that it is.

• Stories can sneak past watchful dragons and open hearts to truth.

• Feed your imagination a good diet of Scripture and great stories.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Sam Whittaker’s Background

2. 02:06 The Role of Imagination in Theology and Apologetics

3. 03:18 Reason and Imagination: Insights from C.S. Lewis

4. 04:22 Practical Examples of Imaginative Apologetics

5. 07:48 Pre-Apologetics and Pascal’s Insight

6. 10:15 How Stories Shape Desire and Meaning

7. 14:00 Lewis, Tolkien, and the Power of Narrative

8. 16:10 A Seminary Class That Changed Everything

9. 19:07 Presuppositionalism and Imaginative Apologetics

10. 22:25 Storytelling as a Witness to the True Myth

11. 24:40 Practical Encouragement for Christians

12. 25:44 Recommended Resources and Next Steps

13. 29:37 Closing Reflections

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery talks with Dr. Jeff Medders, Director of Theology and Content for Send Network and Visiting Professor at Midwestern Seminary, about the surprising benefit of studying the Song of Songs. Jeff shares how his PhD research on this often-overlooked book has transformed his understanding of Christ’s love and enriched his ministry. They discuss Spurgeon’s Christ-centered approach to the Song, practical ways to read it devotionally, and why recovering this book matters for Christian spirituality today. Jeff also offers recommended resources for pastors, students, and everyday believers.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

Song of Songs, Christ-centered interpretation, Spurgeon, Christian spirituality, biblical theology, allegory, typology, marriage imagery, devotional reading, theological study

Takeaways

• The Song of Songs is not just about romance—it points to Christ’s love for His people.

• Spurgeon viewed the Song as the Holy of Holies of Scripture, a place of deep communion with Christ.

• Avoid decoding every detail; instead, meditate on metaphors and their spiritual significance.

• Reading the Song devotionally can warm affections and deepen assurance of Christ’s love.

• Our culture’s discomfort with intimacy makes recovering this book even more important.

• The Song teaches us about present-tense love—Jesus loves us now, not only in the past.

• Resources from church history and modern writers can guide faithful interpretation.

Sound Bites

• The Song of Songs is the Holy of Holies of Scripture.

• Every road in Scripture leads to Christ—and the Song is no exception.

• Jesus doesn’t have a man cave—He gives us full access to Himself.

• My beloved is mine and I am His—what greater assurance could we need?

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Jeff Medders’ Background

2. 02:08 The Surprising Benefit of Studying the Song of Songs

3. 03:25 How Jeff Discovered This Topic and Why It Matters

4. 06:55 Spurgeon’s Christ-Centered Approach to the Song

5. 11:13 Why the Song Is the Holy of Holies of Scripture

6. 13:21 Practical Ways to Read the Song Devotionally

7. 16:06 Cultural Challenges and Biblical Wisdom

8. 18:32 Marriage Imagery and Its Ultimate Referent

9. 21:18 Prophetic Poetry and the Bridegroom Motif

10. 23:40 Present-Tense Love: Jesus Loves Us Now

11. 26:58 Recommended Resources for Further Study

12. 30:28 Favorite Verses and How to Meditate on Them

13. 31:45 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement

Summary

In this episode, Travis Montgomery talks with Christy Allen, assistant professor of ministry to women at Midwestern Seminary, about the theology of the body and why embodiment matters for Christian life and ministry. Christy shares how studying Christology and the significance of Jesus taking on flesh transformed her understanding of the human body and its role in discipleship. From creation to resurrection, this conversation explores how our physicality intersects with spiritual realities and why ministry must account for both. Christy offers practical insights drawn from years of cross-cultural ministry and recommends resources for deeper study.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

theology of the body, embodiment, Christology, ministry to women, creation, resurrection, discipleship, gender identity, biblical womanhood, pastoral care

Takeaways

• Our bodies matter because God created them and Christ took on flesh.

• Physical and spiritual realities are interconnected—what affects one impacts the other.

• Embodiment shapes ministry: physical presence and touch communicate love.

• The church should model healthy, familial affection as part of discipleship.

• Gender identity and roles are rooted in God’s design of our bodies.

• Resurrection hope affirms the goodness of the body and its future renewal.

• Practical ministry often involves tangible expressions of care alongside truth.

Sound Bites

• God made matter matter—our bodies are good and meaningful.

• Jesus didn’t just heal from a distance; He touched people.

• We are made for embodied relationships—discipleship is physical and spiritual.

• Healthy, loving touch can counter shame and communicate the gospel.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Christy Allen’s Background

2. 01:16 The Surprising Benefit of Studying Theology of the Body

3. 03:08 Why Our Bodies Matter: Christology and Resurrection

4. 04:24 Embodiment in Creation and Redemption

5. 06:26 Cultural Misconceptions and Biblical Truth

6. 08:50 Practical Implications for Ministry and Discipleship

7. 11:03 Cross-Cultural Lessons: The Ministry of Hugs

8. 14:38 Familial Affection in the Church

9. 16:20 Embodiment and Gender Identity

10. 22:14 Biblical Womanhood and God’s Design

11. 27:05 Recommended Resources for Further Study

12. 28:42 Closing Thoughts

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Travis Montgomery hosts Dr. Ronni Kurtz, Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology at Midwestern Seminary, for a conversation on the question: Is everyone a theologian? Together, they explore why theological reflection matters for every Christian, the relationship between intellect and affections, and the importance of cultivating a theological imagination in a world full of distortions. Dr. Kurtz shares his personal journey from conversion to vocational theology, offers practical wisdom for local disciple-makers, and recommends resources for beginners and advanced students alike. The discussion emphasizes that theology is not just for the academy—it’s for the church, for everyday life, and for administering reality to those nearest to us.

About the Podcast

Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

systematic theology, theological reflection, local theologians, Christian life, intellectual formation, affections, theological imagination, discipleship, Trinity, beatific vision, resources for theology, MBTS, Midwestern Seminary

Takeaways

• Everyone is a theologian in some sense—the question is whether you will be a faithful one.

• Theology is the study of God and all things in relation to God.

• Intellectual growth and spiritual affections should fuel one another.

• Theological reflection helps Christians administer reality in a world of lies.

• Local theology matters—real ministry happens with real neighbors.

• The Trinity is the blueprint of the cosmos and deeply practical for Christian life.

• The beatific vision is the ultimate hope of heaven: seeing God himself.

• Resources and mentors—both living and dead—shape theological maturity.

Sound Bites

• You cannot not practice theology—the question is, will you be a faithful theologian?

• The world needs people who behold the glory of the Lord and administer what is real.

• Local theology is loving your actual neighbor, not just the idea of mankind.

• The Trinity is the map of the cosmos—everything is from Him, through Him, and to Him.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Introduction and Why This Conversation Matters

2. 01:30 Is Everyone a Theologian?

3. 03:03 Defining Theology: Thoughts About God and All Things in Relation to God

4. 06:03 Intellect and Affections: Loving God Through Learning

5. 08:02 Ronni Kurtz’s Journey into Theology

6. 14:54 The Role of Theological Reflection in Christian Life

7. 16:40 Administering Reality and Developing Theological Imagination

8. 21:40 What Is a Local Theologian? Why Local Theology Matters

9. 28:21 The Dislocation of Theology from Local Context

10. 32:32 Recommended Resources for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced

11. 38:41 Upcoming Book: Theology for Life and Other Recommendations

12. 41:12 Handling Disagreement and Cultivating Humility

13. 46:20 Why Trinitarian Theology Is Practical

14. 50:19 What Is the Beatific Vision?

15. 52:15 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement