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  • Episode 111: Anabaptist Peacemaking

    Episode 111: Anabaptist Peacemaking
    2026/07/16
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues the Holy Convergence series by exploring peacemaking, the gift of the Anabaptist tradition. Emerging during the Radical Reformation of the sixteenth century, the Anabaptists believed that following Jesus meant more than affirming correct doctrine, it meant obeying the teachings of Jesus in everyday life. Their commitment to believer’s baptism, discipleship, nonviolence, and allegiance to the kingdom of God set them apart from both Catholics and other Protestant reformers. Derek traces the origins of the Anabaptist movement through figures such as Felix Manz, Michael Sattler, and Menno Simons. Despite severe persecution, imprisonment, exile, and martyrdom, these radical reformers remained committed to the teachings of Jesus, particularly his commands to love enemies, forgive offenders, and reject retaliation. The episode then explores peacemaking in the way of Jesus. Rooted in the Sermon on the Mount and the example of Christ’s self-giving love, Christian nonviolence is presented not as passivity or mere niceness, but as the courageous pursuit of reconciliation, justice, mercy, and truth without violence. The Anabaptist witness reminds us that the teachings of Jesus are not impossible ideals but practical instructions for faithful Christian discipleship. Key Takeaways • The Anabaptists emerged from the Radical Reformation in sixteenth-century Europe. • Believer’s baptism became a defining conviction of the movement. • The Anabaptists rejected the fusion of church and state common throughout Europe. • Following Jesus meant obeying his teachings, especially those found in the Sermon on the Mount. • Christian nonviolence is rooted in Jesus’ command to love enemies and refuse retaliation. • Peacemaking is more than avoiding conflict; it is the active work of reconciliation and justice. • The kingdom of God advances through persuasion, service, suffering, and love and not coercion. • The Anabaptist witness continues to challenge Christians to take the teachings of Jesus seriously. Scriptures Mentioned • Genesis 4:7 • Isaiah 9:6–7 • Isaiah 11:9 • Matthew 5:3–10 • Matthew 5:9 • Matthew 10:34 • Luke 10:5 • Luke 19:42 • John 14:27 • John 20:19 • 2 Corinthians 10:4 Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    33 分
  • Episode 110: Protestant Audacity

    Episode 110: Protestant Audacity
    2026/07/09
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues the Holy Convergence series by exploring the gift of Protestantism: audacity. Audacity is the courage to challenge assumptions, confront corruption, and pursue reform when faithfulness requires it. While audacity can easily become arrogance when detached from humility and love, it has also been the driving force behind many of history’s most important movements for renewal and justice. The episode traces the origins of the Protestant Reformation through the life of Martin Luther, the German monk whose spiritual struggle led him to rediscover the biblical message of salvation by grace through faith. Derek recounts Luther’s famous thunderstorm vow, his growing concerns over indulgences, and the events surrounding the Ninety-Five Theses. What began as a call for theological debate eventually became a movement that transformed the church, reshaped Europe, and challenged one of the most powerful institutions in the world. Beyond Luther, Derek highlights other reformers such as Huldrych Zwingli, John Calvin, and William Tyndale, whose courage helped spread the Reformation throughout Europe. He also explores the Five Solas as a summary of Protestant theology, while offering thoughtful reflections on both their strengths and limitations. Ultimately, this episode argues that the gift of Protestantism is not division for its own sake, but the willingness to continually ask whether our beliefs, practices, and traditions remain faithful to Jesus and the gospel. The church must always be willing to reform itself when necessary, keeping Christ at the center of all things. Key Takeaways • Audacity is the courage to challenge assumptions and pursue reform. • Martin Luther did not initially seek to start a new church but to reform the existing one. • The Protestant Reformation emerged from a desire to return to biblical and apostolic roots. • The printing press played a crucial role in spreading Reformation ideas. • The Five Solas summarize many of the central convictions of Protestant theology. • Audacity without humility becomes arrogance; audacity without love becomes division. • The church must continually evaluate its traditions in light of Scripture and the gospel. • Faithfulness to Jesus sometimes requires questioning long-standing assumptions. Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    45 分
  • Episode 109: Anglican Liturgy

    Episode 109: Anglican Liturgy
    2026/07/02
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues the Holy Convergence series by exploring the gift of Anglican liturgy. While Anglicanism is often associated with the Church of England and its complicated break from Rome under Henry VIII, Derek argues that its deeper story is rooted in a desire to remain connected to the ancient catholic and apostolic faith while embracing the reforms of the Protestant Reformation. The episode traces the development of Anglicanism from the early Christian presence in Britain through the English Reformation and into the formation of The Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church in North America. Derek highlights Anglicanism’s unique ability to hold together ancient tradition and biblical reform, creating a worshiping community shaped by Scripture, sacrament, liturgy, and the rhythms of the Christian calendar. At the center of Anglican worship is The Book of Common Prayer, first compiled by Thomas Cranmer in 1549. More than a collection of prayers, the Prayer Book provides a form for worship that is deeply biblical, Trinitarian, Christ-centered, and spiritually formative. Derek reflects on how the Daily Office Lectionary, and the Christian calendar have enriched both his personal devotional life and the worship life of his church. Ultimately, Anglican liturgy offers a beautiful pattern for prayer and worship—one marked by wholeness, harmony, and clarity. It is a gift that keeps Christians rooted in Scripture, connected to the historic church, and centered on Jesus Christ. Key Takeaways • Anglicanism seeks to be both catholic and reformed. • The Church of England emerged from both political and theological developments during the Reformation. • Anglican worship is shaped by Scripture, sacrament, liturgy, and the Christian calendar. • The Book of Common Prayer remains the defining resource of Anglican spirituality. • The Daily Office provides a structured rhythm of Scripture reading and prayer. • Anglicanism values both ancient tradition and biblical renewal. • Liturgy forms Christians through repeated patterns of worship and prayer. • The beauty of liturgy lies in its wholeness, harmony, and Christ-centered focus. Resources Mentioned Anglican Compass Why I Became Anglican (And You Should, Too!) Daily Office Lectionary Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    37 分
  • Episode 108: Catholic Beauty

    Episode 108: Catholic Beauty
    2026/06/25
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues the “Holy Convergence” series by exploring the gift the Roman Catholic tradition offers the wider church: beauty. Derek begins by reflecting on the meaning of the word catholic, which means ”universal.” He also discusses why Christians should resist the impulse to dismiss entire traditions because of personal wounds or disagreements. He offers a brief historical overview of the Roman Catholic Church, tracing its roots to the apostles Peter and Paul and highlighting the church’s profound influence on theology, education, art, philosophy, architecture, worship, and the preservation of learning throughout Western civilization. The heart of the episode focuses on beauty as a theological category. Drawing from the ancient Christian understanding of the transcendentals—the true, the good, and the beautiful—Derek explores how beauty reflects the very nature of God. He engages the thought of Thomas Aquinas, who described beauty through integrity, harmony, and radiance, and Hans Urs von Balthasar, who argued that beauty is essential to Christian faith because the glory of God is revealed most fully in Jesus Christ. The episode also explores contemplation, stillness, and wonder through the writings of Thomas Merton. Derek reflects on how beauty calls us not merely to analyze or apply truth, but to stop, behold, and rest in the presence of God. Ultimately, this episode argues that the gospel is not only true and good; the gospel is beautiful. Key Takeaways • The word catholic means universal and points to the unity of the global church. • The Roman Catholic Church has profoundly shaped Western civilization and Christian history. • Beauty is one of the transcendentals alongside truth and goodness. • Beauty reflects the glory and nature of God. • Thomas Aquinas described beauty through wholeness, harmony, and radiance. • Hans Urs von Balthasar emphasized that beauty is essential to Christian faith. • Jesus Christ is the fullest revelation of divine beauty. • Contemplation is resting in the beauty and presence of God. • Modern Christianity often prioritizes truth and utility while neglecting beauty. Books Mentioned • Summa Theologiae by Thomas Aquinas • The Glory of the Lord: A Theological Aesthetics by Hans Urs von Balthasar • New Seeds of Contemplation by Thomas Merton Scriptures Mentioned • Psalm 27:4 • Philippians 4:8 • Luke 10 Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    39 分
  • Episode 107 - Orthodox Mystery

    Episode 107 - Orthodox Mystery
    2026/06/18
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues the “Holy Convergence” series by exploring the gifts of Eastern Orthodoxy. Derek begins by tracing the historical roots of Eastern Orthodoxy through the Great Schism of 1054, when the church in the Greek-speaking East and the Latin-speaking West formally divided after centuries of growing cultural, political, and theological separation. While Eastern Orthodoxy shares much in common with Catholic and Protestant traditions, it offers distinct emphases that Derek finds deeply enriching: mystery, participation in the divine life, Trinitarian theology, and the integration of worship and theology. Drawing from the writings of Athanasius and Kallistos Ware, Derek reflects on the Orthodox understanding of salvation as healing and union with God rather than merely legal pardon. Central to Orthodox spirituality is theosis—the idea that humanity is invited to participate in the divine nature through union with Christ. This is captured in Athanasius’ famous statement: “God became human so that humanity might become god.” The episode also explores the Orthodox emphasis on mystery—not as confusion or secrecy, but as an invitation into awe and worship. God is knowable, but never fully comprehensible. Theology is not merely intellectual study; it is participation in the life of God through prayer, worship, sacrament, and contemplation. Derek concludes by introducing the Jesus Prayer—“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me”—as a simple but profound spiritual practice rooted in Orthodox spirituality, inviting listeners to embrace silence, humility, and wonder before the mystery of God. Key Takeaways • Eastern Orthodoxy emerged from the historic split between East and West in 1054. • Orthodox Christianity emphasizes continuity with the ancient apostolic church. • Salvation is understood as healing, restoration, and union with God. • Theosis means participating in the divine nature without ceasing to be human. • Orthodox theology is deeply Trinitarian and rooted in worship and prayer. • Mystery is not opposed to truth—it is an invitation into wonder and awe. • God is knowable through revelation, but never fully comprehensible. • The Jesus Prayer is a foundational Orthodox spiritual practice centered on peace and attentiveness to God. Books Mentioned • On the Incarnation — Athanasius • The Orthodox Way — Kallistos Ware Scriptures Mentioned • Romans 11:33–36 • 2 Peter 1:4 • Isaiah 55:8–9 • Mark 12:30 • Acts 1:8 Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    36 分
  • Episode 106: A Holy Convergence

    Episode 106: A Holy Convergence
    2026/06/11
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland introduces a vision he has been articulating for years—a way of understanding both his own spiritual journey and the identity of the church he serves, Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. Derek describes it as a holy convergence: the coming together of the gifts and wisdom of multiple Christian traditions within one church centered on Jesus. While many churches identify primarily with one denomination or stream of Christianity, Derek reflects on how his church has been shaped by influences from across the historic Christian tradition: Eastern Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, Anglicanism, Protestantism, Anabaptism, Classic Evangelicalism, and Pentecostalism. Rather than focusing on division or doctrinal tribalism, this episode explores what each tradition uniquely contributes to the life of the Church. Drawing on voices like Jaroslav Pelikan, G. K. Chesterton, and Brian Zahnd, Derek reflects on the difference between tradition and traditionalism, the beauty of learning from the whole Church, and the need for Christians to recover humility, curiosity, and unity in a polarized age. This episode serves as an introduction to a forthcoming series exploring seven Christian traditions and the unique gifts each brings to the body of Christ. Key Takeaways • Every church has traditions, even contemporary non-denominational churches. • Tradition is not inherently bad. It is the collective wisdom of the past handed down through generations. • Traditionalism is different from tradition; it is “the dead faith of the living.” • No single Christian tradition contains the fullness of Christian experience. • Christians are enriched when they learn from the whole Church. • The Church is one house with many windows, different perspectives illuminating the same light. • Unity does not require uniformity. • A “holy convergence” values the gifts of multiple traditions while remaining centered on Jesus. Scriptures Mentioned • 2 Thessalonians 2:15 • 1 Corinthians 11:2 • Mark 7:8–9 • Romans 11:33 • Acts 1:8 Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    39 分
  • Episode 105: A Case for Christian Nonviolence

    Episode 105: A Case for Christian Nonviolence
    2026/06/04
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland presents a positive case for Christian nonviolence as a faithful response to the teachings and example of Jesus. Building on previous critiques of Just War Theory, Derek argues that Christian nonviolence, in contrast to pacificism is not an ethical principle or social strategy. Rather it is a virtue formed through following Jesus. Christian nonviolence is rooted in the gospel announcement that Jesus has become King through his birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension. Followers of Jesus are therefore called to resist that which does harm and embody peace through enemy-love, forgiveness, reconciliation, and co-suffering love. Drawing heavily from the Sermon on the Mount, Derek reflects on Jesus’ commands to love enemies, turn the other cheek, and become peacemakers The episode also addresses common objections to Christian nonviolence surrounding questions of self-defense, military service, and Romans 13. Derek argues that Jesus fundamentally reimagines violence through the lens of the kingdom of God, refusing the way of the sword even in his own arrest. While maintaining deep respect and compassion for soldiers and veterans, he distinguishes opposition to war from opposition to those who serve. Finally, Derek highlights the remarkable story of Desmond Doss, whose courageous service during World War II demonstrates that Christian nonviolence is not weakness, but costly faithfulness to Jesus in the midst of violence. Key Takeaways • Christian nonviolence is a virtue shaped by discipleship to Jesus. • Nonviolence differs from pacifism, which can exist apart from Christian faith. • Jesus consistently taught and modeled enemy-love and peacemaking. • The Sermon on the Mount reframes violence, retaliation, and justice. • Violence perpetuates more violence. • Jesus refused the way of the sword and healed rather than harmed. • Romans 13 addresses governing authorities, not Christian participation in war. • Christians can honor soldiers while still opposing war itself. • Christian nonviolence is active, courageous, and rooted in love. Scriptures Mentioned • Matthew 5:9 • Matthew 5:21–22 • Matthew 5:38–48 • Matthew 26:52 • Luke 22:35–38 • Luke 22:47–51 • Romans 12 • Romans 13:1–4 • Acts 10:1–48 • Matthew 28 Books & Resources Mentioned • A Field Guide to Christian Nonviolence — David Cramer & Myles Werntz • Hacksaw Ridge (2016 film) Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    43 分
  • Episode 104: Why Tolkien Still Matters for Christian Faith

    Episode 104: Why Tolkien Still Matters for Christian Faith
    2026/05/28
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek Vreeland continues the journey into Tolkien’s world this time joined by longtime friend and guest Walter Rogero. Together, they explore why The Lord of the Rings and Tolkien’s broader legendarium continue to matter for Christian faith today. Walter brings both pastoral experience and deep familiarity with Tolkien’s writings, offering insight into how Middle-earth functions not just as a story, but as a world shaped by a distinctly Christian imagination stepped in the virtues and values of the Middle Ages. The conversation also explores the role of imagination, story, and myth in shaping a mature and resilient faith. Derek and Walter reflect on their shared spiritual journeys from Pentecostal/charismatic roots into a deeper appreciation for liturgical traditions and how Tolkien’s work has brought them both enjoyed and helped form a richer imagination for the work of God in the world. This episode is an invitation to see Tolkien not as an escape from reality but as a way of seeing reality more clearly. Key Takeaways • Tolkien’s work reflects a deeply Christian vision without relying on direct allegory. • Imagination, myth, and story play a vital role in shaping mature faith. • Tolkien helps recover a sense of mystery, beauty, and moral depth often missing in modern faith expressions. • Spiritual formation is shaped not only by doctrine, but by the stories we inhabit. Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Check out the Merch Store: derekvreeland.com/merch Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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    50 分