I have recommended a number of podcasts over the last few months. Podcasts are audio ( or sometimes video) programs posted on the internet and/or in some of the popular podcasting services (iTunes, Spotify, etc.) on specific topics or areas of interest. I often listen to them while driving, especially on longer trips, because I can learn something while being otherwise limited in what I can do other than keep my eyes on the road ahead. Podcasting services provide access to their apps on both Android and Apple phones and tablets. And most podcasts are provided free of charge.

Today’s pick of the week is a podcast I have just begun listening to, but am enjoying immensely. It is called “Simply Put,” and is provided by Ligonier Ministries. Each week’s podcast is only about 5 minutes long and gives useful and clear insight into a significant theological word or concept. Examples have included “propitiation,” “glory,” “sin,” “ontological argument,” etc. The speaker is an English (UK) author and teacher named Barry Cooper.

What I like about this podcast:

  • Length – about 5 minutes each, which allows listening to an entire episode or two during a short drive across town.
  • Content – Mr. Cooper does not get too academic in his language, explanations and illustrations. This accomplishes his purpose of educating his listeners who may not have studied Christian theology and its unique “vocabulary” in detail.
  • Practical – as a teacher and preacher I appreciate and use good sources for future lessons or sermons. Several of the individual podcasts I have already listened to in “Simply Put” by themselves provide a useful foundation for a future sermon or class lesson. Two such examples immediately come to mind: “Adoption” and “Tabernacle.”

Here is the Barry Cooper’s own explanation about the podcast:

Have you ever wished that someone would explain theology in a way that doesn’t require a degree or a dictionary? Maybe you’ve listened to a sermon and it seemed like the pastor was speaking another language. Or perhaps you’ve thought that the notes in your study Bible could use a commentary of their own. From imputation to justification, theophany to theodicy, keeping all these concepts straight can be a challenge for any believer.

Simply Put is a short podcast about long words. Every week, Barry Cooper sheds light on a different biblical or theological term, using helpful illustrations to apply it to your life. Listen to this week’s episode to expand your understanding and deepen your faith, one word at a time.

If you would like to sample recent episodes of this podcast you can do so without even installing a podcasting app. Instead, go to their podcast website at https://simplyputpodcast.com.