MARSCAST

287. Where is God in Our Suffering?

When suffering strikes, where is God? In this conversation, Rev. Paul Ipema and Jared Luttjeboer explore one of faith's most pressing questions: how a sovereign God can be both in control and deeply compassionate in the midst of our pain. Moving beyond easy answers, they examine how the doctrine of the Fall reframes our expectations, why the cross reveals God's character in suffering, and how pastors can minister to those in pain without pretending to have all the answers. Drawing on Tim Keller's insights, this episode offers a pastoral perspective on holding together divine sovereignty and human responsibility, especially when life doesn't make sense. Whether you're walking through hardship yourself or seeking to support others in their struggles, this discussion provides biblical wisdom for navigating suffering with honesty and trust in God's redemptive purposes.

286. Why We're Less Equipped for Hardship Than Any Generation Before

Why does suffering feel so unbearable in our modern world? In this first installment of a three-part series, Rev. Paul Ipema joins host Jared Luttjeboer to explore how Western culture has left us uniquely unprepared for life's hardships. Drawing on Tim Keller's "Walking with God Through Pain and Suffering," they examine the stark contrast between past generations, who viewed hardship as inevitable, and today's expectation of constant comfort and success. The conversation shifts from cultural analysis to an examination of Martin Luther's "theology of the cross," revealing why grace—not performance—must anchor us when life falls apart.

285. Can I Lose My Salvation? A Conversation on Perseverance and Grace

In this final episode of our “Doctrines of Grace” series, host Jared Luttjeboer and Dr. J. Mark Beach turn to one of the most tender truths in the Christian life—the perseverance and assurance of the saints. Many believers quietly ask, Can I lose my salvation? or, What if I’ve fallen too far? With warmth and biblical clarity, Dr. Beach reminds us that perseverance is not about our grip on God, but His steadfast hold on us. Whether you’re walking through doubt, wrestling with sin, or simply longing for renewed confidence in Christ’s promise, this conversation brings us back to the truth that the God who began a good work in you will surely bring it to completion.

284. Understanding Irresistible Grace

When someone comes to faith, what’s really happening beneath the surface? Is belief simply a human choice, or the result of God’s sovereign work in the heart? In this episode of MARSCAST, Dr. J. Mark Beach joins Jared Luttjeboer once again to explore the doctrine of irresistible grace, or effectual calling: the Spirit’s life-giving summons that makes faith possible. Together, they unpack how God’s call differs from a mere invitation, how regeneration relates to faith, and how this truth brings hope for struggling believers, wandering children, and weary parents. A conversation that is both deeply theological and pastoral, this episode invites you to rest in the God who calls and overwhelms our resistance with grace.

283. For Whom Did Christ Die? Understanding the Extent of the Atonement

In this episode of MARSCAST, host Jared Luttjeboer sits down with Dr. J. Mark Beach to take a closer look at one of the most discussed questions in Christian theology: For whom did Christ die? Together, they unpack what Scripture says about the extent and intent of Christ’s atonement, why it matters, how it shapes the way we share the gospel, and how it brings real comfort to believers who wrestle with doubt. Tune in now to hear this honest, down-to-earth conversation about the grace of God and the assurance we find in Christ’s finished work.