Episodes

  • Episode 56 - One Lord Jesus Christ

    Episode 56 - One Lord Jesus Christ
    Jun 26 2025
    In this foundational episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland dives into the heart of the Nicene Creed—the bold, ancient declaration that Jesus is “one Lord… true God from true God.” As we continue our journey through the Creed, Derek unpacks the opening lines of the Christ section, exploring what it really means to say that Jesus is Lord, King, and the eternal Son of God. With theological insight, personal reflection, and a bit of humor, Derek traces the biblical and historical roots of key phrases like “begotten, not made” and “of one being with the Father,” while making space for mystery, awe, and wonder. Whether you’re exploring the Creed for the first time or revisiting familiar words with fresh eyes, this episode will anchor your faith in the person of Jesus—fully God, fully man, and King of all. Key Takeaways The Nicene Creed affirms Jesus as fully divine and fully human—the foundation of Christian belief about who He is. Saying “one Lord Jesus Christ” boldly proclaims that Jesus, not Caesar or culture, holds ultimate authority in our lives. The title “Christ” means King—Jesus is not just Savior but Ruler, deserving our full allegiance and trust. Jesus is the eternal Son of God—He was not made but shares the same divine essence as the Father. Through Jesus, all things were made—He is both the Word of creation and the King of the cosmos. 🎧 Listen now and explore how the Nicene Creed helps us see Jesus clearly and love him more deeply. Scriptures mentioned in this podcast: John 3:16 Genesis 1:1 John 1:1 Books mentioned in this podcast: What’s a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam The Creed by Luke Timothy Johnson Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website
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    32 mins
  • Episode 55 - One God Maker of Heaven and Earth

    Episode 55 - One God Maker of Heaven and Earth
    Jun 19 2025
    In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland kicks off a brand-new mini-series exploring the Nicene Creed, beginning with its opening line: “We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen.” With warmth, clarity, and wisdom, Derek reflects on what it means to believe in one God in a world of competing idols and spiritual confusion. Drawing from personal stories, ancient Christian belief, and contemporary relevance, this episode helps us reconnect with foundational truths: God is enough. God is Father. And God is our Creator. Derek also addresses how the Church can lovingly disagree about how God created the world while staying united in the essential truth that God alone is the Creator of all things. Key Takeaways The Nicene Creed defines the essentials of the Christian faith and brings unity to believers across denominations. Belief in “one God” affirms God’s sufficiency and stands against modern-day idols of money, power, and pleasure. Jesus reveals that God is not distant or abstract, but personal—our Father. God is the Maker of all that is seen and unseen—creation is not accidental, and every person bears the image of God. Christians may disagree on the age of the earth or the timeline of creation—but all agree that God is Creator. Whether you’re new to the Nicene Creed or seeking to deepen your faith, this episode offers a thoughtful starting point that centers your beliefs on the character and nature of God. 🎧 Listen now and be grounded in the faith that has united Christians for centuries. Scriptures mentioned in this episode: Genesis 1-2 John 14:9 Psalm 118:24 Psalm 139:13 Books mentioned in this podcast: What’s a Christian Anyway? by Glenn Packiam: https://amzn.to/4krON7QPreorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website
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    33 mins
  • Episode 54 - What’s a Christian Anyway? A conversation with Glenn Packiam

    Episode 54 - What’s a Christian Anyway? A conversation with Glenn Packiam
    Jun 12 2025
    In this rich and reflective episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland sits down with author and pastor Glenn Packiam to explore a timeless but timely question: What’s a Christian anyway? Drawing from Glenn’s new book by the same name, the conversation dives deep into the power of the Nicene Creed to shape our identity, unify the church, and guide believers through seasons of doubt, confusion, and cultural chaos. Together, Derek and Glenn unpack how ancient Christian truths speak directly to modern challenges—offering scaffolding for those deconstructing, rebuilding, or simply seeking spiritual clarity. From the Trinity to the story of salvation, and from sacramental life to the wild work of the Holy Spirit, this episode is both pastoral and practical. Whether you're a lifelong believer or exploring faith for the first time, this conversation invites you to stay in the boat, embrace a deeper story, and remember that the church is bigger—and more beautiful—than we often realize. Key Takeaways Faith is a shared journey—not a solo act. The Creed helps us stay together, even in doubt. The Nicene Creed echoes Scripture and centers us on the Trinity. It gives guardrails for understanding who Jesus is and how to stay rooted in truth. The Christian story leads to new creation—not escape, but renewal and resurrection. The Holy Spirit leads us into power, obedience, and transformation. Struggling with faith? Stay in the boat. Let others row when you can’t. 🎧 Listen now and discover why the Creed still matters—and how it can anchor your faith in a world of confusion and corruption. Books mentioned in this podcast: Exploring Christian Hope in Contemporary Worship by Glenn Packiam Blessed Broken and Given by Glenn Packiam The Resilient Pastor by Glenn Packiam The Intentional Year by Glenn & Holly Packiam What’s a Christian, Anyway? by Glenn Packiam In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen The Creed by Luke Timothy Johnson Acts: A Theological Commentary on the Bible by Willie James Jennings Learn more about Glenn’s new book and get free resources at whatsachristiananyway.com Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website
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    35 mins
  • Episode 53 - Making Everything New

    Episode 53 - Making Everything New
    Jun 5 2025
    In this final Eastertide episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland invites listeners into a powerful reflection on the resurrection of Jesus—not just as a past event, but as the beginning of God's ongoing work to make all things new. Drawing from the Christian calendar and the story arc of Scripture—from Advent to Pentecost, and from creation to new creation—Derek unpacks how the resurrection is the first sign of God's “new creation project.” This episode explores how the Holy Spirit empowers us to love, why Jesus' resurrection signals hope for all humanity, and how Revelation 21 offers a stunning vision of God dwelling with His people in a remade world filled with light, love, and life. Through personal stories, biblical insight, and reflections on the foundational truths of the faith, Derek reminds us that the Christian journey is not just about what we’re saved from—but what we’re saved for. Key Takeaways Pentecost marks not just the end of Easter, but the beginning of Spirit-empowered living. Jesus doesn’t just give us commands—He gives us the power to fulfill them. The resurrection of Jesus is the first step in God’s plan to renew all creation. “New creation” is not just symbolic; it’s a real, ongoing reality we’re invited into. Revelation 21 isn’t about escaping earth—it’s about heaven coming to earth. The end of the story is hope: no more death, no more tears, only the light and love of the Lamb. Whether you’re walking through grief, wrestling with tradition, or seeking a deeper hope, this episode will reorient your heart to the promise that God is making all things new—starting now. 🎧 Listen now and be renewed by the promise of resurrection and restoration. Scriptures mentioned in this episode: Galatians 6:152 Corinthians 5:17Revelation 1:1Revelation 21:1-5Revelation 21:22-26 Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website
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    35 mins
  • Episode 52 - The Resurrection Scheme of Things

    Episode 52 - The Resurrection Scheme of Things
    May 29 2025
    In this Eastertide episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland invites us into a deeper understanding of the resurrection—not as abstract theology, but as the very foundation of Christian hope and daily transformation. Grounded in 1 Corinthians 15, Derek gently unpacks what he calls the “resurrection scheme of things”—God’s powerful plan to conquer death, bring renewal, and begin His work of new creation in each of us. With pastoral insight and real-life reflection, he speaks honestly about doubt, shares stories of faith under pressure, and reminds us why the resurrection of Jesus is not just central to Christian faith—it’s our greatest hope. Key Takeaways The resurrection of Jesus is not metaphor—it’s the linchpin of Christian faith. Without the resurrection, everything else falls apart; with it, everything changes. Our future resurrection mirrors the risen Christ: new, immortal, and glorious. Doubt is part of faith formation—what matters is wrestling with it in community. Death is not our end—it’s been swallowed up by triumphant life through Jesus. This episode reminds us that resurrection isn't just a future hope—it’s a present reality that reshapes how we live, love, and trust in God’s promise to make all things new. 🎧 Listen now and be encouraged in your faith journey. Scriptures mentioned in this episode: Psalm 14:1 1 Corinthians 15:13-20 1 Corinthians 15:25-28 1 Corinthians 15:35-44 1 Corinthians 15:51-57 Article mentioned in this podcast: 8 Facts about Atheists: https://bit.ly/4m6PGnY Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website
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    34 mins
  • Episode 51 - Our Everyday, Ordinary Life

    Episode 51 - Our Everyday, Ordinary Life
    May 22 2025
    Continuing the Eastertide series on Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland explores how the resurrection of Jesus transforms not just our theology but our everyday, ordinary life. Drawing from Romans 12:1–2, Derek unpacks how simple, daily acts like sleeping, eating, and going to work can become spiritual offerings to God. Rather than separating the “spiritual” from the “ordinary,” Derek challenges us to see our whole lives as holy—lived in response to what God has already done through the death and resurrection of Jesus. This episode is a warm and hopeful reminder that transformation doesn’t happen in a vacuum, but in the midst of everyday, ordinary life. Key Takeaways Your everyday routines—sleeping, eating, working—can be acts of worship. Joy isn’t about ignoring pain; it’s about holding on to hope through the resurrection. Worship starts with embracing what God has already done for us. God changes us from the inside out, not by pressure but by love. Singing together can lift our hearts and deepen our faith. Whether you’re carrying burdens or simply trying to live more intentionally, this episode reminds us that God is just as engaged in our daily routines as He is in our Sunday worship. Scriptures mentioned in this podcast: John 15:11 Galatians 5:22-23 Romans 12:1-2 Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website
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    33 mins
  • Episode 50 - Formed by Books, Anchored in Peace – with Pastor Santosh Ninan

    Episode 50 - Formed by Books, Anchored in Peace – with Pastor Santosh Ninan
    May 15 2025
    In this milestone 50th episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland welcomes his longtime friend, Pastor Santosh Ninan of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Together, they reflect on decades of friendship, shared spiritual formation, and the quiet influence of Eugene Peterson on their pastoral callings. Santosh shares his journey from India to Canada, his calling to ministry at age 17, and the role reading plays in his life—highlighting how habits of daily reading, immersion in literature and theology, and staying rooted in the Sermon on the Mount have shaped him as a leader and disciple. As the conversation turns toward peacemaking in an era of political and cultural polarization, Derek and Santosh unpack why understanding others' stories is a key to transcending outrage culture and reclaiming Christlike kindness. They explore practical ways for Christians to embody peace and resist echo chambers, while holding fast to kingdom values that rise above nationalism and partisanship. Whether you’re a pastor, teacher, or a curious follower of Jesus, this episode offers wisdom for leading, listening, and living peaceably in a noisy world. Key Takeaways Eugene Peterson teaches us how to lead with integrity, not ego. Daily reading builds spiritual depth and helps Christians grow in wisdom. The Sermon on the Mount is a practical guide for living out the way of Jesus. Real peace starts by listening to people outside your echo chamber. Christians are called to reject outrage and live for the kingdom. Spiritual formation means facing hard truths while staying grounded in Scripture. Books mentioned in this podcast: A Long Obedience in the Same Direction by Eugene Peterson Under the Unpredictable Plant by Eugene Peterson Working the Angles by Eugene Peterson Answering God by Eugene Peterson A Burning in My Bones by Winn Collier Jesus Changes Everything by Stanley Hauerwas The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory by Tim Alberta Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or FacebookEpisode Website
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    36 mins
  • Episode 49 - Walking in Newness of Life

    Episode 49 - Walking in Newness of Life
    May 8 2025
    In this hope-filled Eastertide episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland explores what it means to live a resurrected life—right here, right now. Derek gently guides listeners beyond theological concepts, revealing how the truth of the resurrection moves from belief to practice, shaping the way we walk through loss, healing, and new beginnings. Rooted in Romans 6 and the message of Easter, this episode walks listeners through the symbolism of baptism, the fear-shattering truth of resurrection, and reveals practical ways to live free from the grip of death, denial, and despair. Whether you're navigating grief, spiritual renewal, or simply looking to reorient your life around resurrection hope, this episode offers encouragement to walk forward in grace. Key Takeaways · Resurrection isn’t just belief—it’s a new way to live daily. · The fear of death loses its grip when we live in light of Easter. · Baptism symbolizes dying to sin and rising into a new grace-filled life. · Healthy grieving includes creating meaning through loss. · Avoiding death through denial, debauchery, or extreme discipline misses the path of discipleship. · Romans 6 paints resurrection life as leaving the old country of sin for a new land ruled by grace. · Jesus’ resurrection means death never gets the final word—Jesus does. · The power of resurrection isn’t just future hope—it brings renewal to dead dreams, broken relationships, and weary hearts today. Scriptures mentioned in this episode: · Hebrews 2:14-15 · 1 Corinthians 15:32 · Romans 6:1-9 · John 11:35 Books mentioned in this podcast: · Finding Meaning: The Sixth Stage of Grief by David Kessler Preorder Derek's new book, Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us here: https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! · Leave a review · Share it with your friends · Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Get to know the host: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook Episode Website
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    31 mins