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How the Protestant Reformers are Still Changing the World

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Remembering Jim Zes: A Life of Faith and Service

May 21, 2026 / / 1 Comment

“…away from the body…at home with the Lord.” 2 Cor. 5:8

Just recently my good friend, James “Jim” Lee Zes (1952-2026) lost his life to cancer. Jim and I both served churches in the greater St. Louis area: Jim as the elder of Reformation Christian Assembly, and me as the pastor of Covenant Family Church. Our two families grew close over twelve years of side-by-side service, plus Jim and I were united in our common appreciation of the family-integrated church movement. Jim wasn’t a noted conference speaker; he never authored any books (although he did publish some); nor did he seek public recognition. Instead, he was a loving husband and father, a tender-hearted evangelist, a faithful shepherd to his local flock, and a business man. Jim Zes invested in people; he believed in them. He urged each one he met to come to faith in Jesus Christ, and as a Christian “to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Col. 1:10). He lifted people up, rather than tearing people down. In my opinion, that is a noble character quality–and Jim certainly had it.

(L-R) Marcus Serven, Jim Zes, and Scott Brown at a Family-Integrated Church Conference (2008), St. Louis, MO

In particular, Jim encouraged people to live as “free men”–free from excessive debt, free from living beyond their means, and free from enslavement to the enticements of this world. Jim lived exactly as he spoke! He had a simple and frugal lifestyle. He drove a single-cab white pickup truck. He typically dressed in blue jeans, a polo shirt, and a baseball cap. When it came to his work, he wouldn’t ask any one else to do what he himself would not do. He led by example. And, people loved him for it! Jim was also a dedicated shepherd to his church. He served the people “as unto the Lord,” and stood with them during times of sickness and suffering. He preached the Word of God weekly and prayed for them on a regular basis. In particular, he sought to disciple young men to lead their families, to be students of the Word of God, and to be wise stewards of the resources that God had entrusted them with. He will be greatly missed! But that is not the end of the story. He may be “away from the body,” but he is now “at home with the Lord” (2 Cor. 5:8). And that is a promise worth remembering and cherishing!

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

R. B. Kuiper on Apostolic Succession

November 12, 2025 /
St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland. John Knox faithfully served here as Pastor from 1559-1572.

“And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching…” Acts 2:42a

The quote below from R. B. Kuiper’s classic treatise, The Glorious Body of Christ, really resonated with me. He powerfully argues that, “Organizational succession without doctrinal succession is worthless.” Those churches who have departed from the teaching of the Apostles have no real connection to the true Christian faith. They are mere counterfeits and shadows of what our Lord Jesus Christ intended. Let us, then, “contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3b). It is only those who have remained faithful to the teachings of the Lord and the Apostles who should be considered as legitimate churches of Jesus Christ.

Prof. R. B. Kuiper (1886-1966)

Certain churches lay claim to apostolicity in the sense of their being exclusively, or nearly so, the uninterrupted continuation of the organized church as it existed in the days of the apostles. Particularly do they boast of their clergy as the unbroken succession of the bishops ordained by the apostles. This view is known as “apostolic succession” and is held by the Greek Catholic, the Roman Catholic and the Anglican churches…One serious fallacy in these claims to apostolic succession is that they completely overlook the fact that organizational succession does not guarantee doctrinal succession. To say nothing of the other communions just named, the Roman Catholic Church has departed very far from the teaching of the apostles. Does it not deny that doctrine which lies at the very heart of apostolic teaching—justification by faith only? For that reason, among others, the Reformers of the sixteenth century did not hesitate to pronounce Rome a false church. Organizational succession without doctrinal succession is worthless. A church that possesses the former but has lost the latter is no longer a church of Jesus Christ. Our Reformed fathers were right when they said that ‘succession of doctrine’ rather than ‘succession of persons and places’ is a mark of the true church. [See Bavinck, Gereformeerde Dogmatiek, Vol. IV, p. 353]”

— R. B. Kuiper, The Glorious Body of Christ, 64-65.

Remember the distinction made in Kuiper’s quote–that the difference between “organizational succession” and “doctrinal succession” is the determining factor between truth and error. It is only faithful “doctrinal succession” that is worth fighting for. Moreover, upholding the “apostles’ teaching” is a mark of the true church of Jesus Christ.

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

Source: Kuiper, R. B. The Glorious Body of Christ: A Scriptural Appreciation of the One Holy Church. Edinburgh, Scotland: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1967.

Biographical Statement: Prof. R. B. Kuiper served as the President of Calvin College for 22 years (1930-1952). He then taught at Westminster Theological Seminary for 14 years as the Professor of Practical Theology (1952-1966). He was well-loved for his zeal in teaching the Bible and for the application of its principles to the doctrine of the Church. “Well done good and faithful servant” (cf. Matt. 25:21).

B. B. Warfield on the Doctrine of Assurance

October 28, 2025 /
Archibald Alexander Hall at Princeton Theological Seminary

“The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs–heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ…” Rom. 8:16-17a

A close family friend sent this powerful quotation from Dr. Benjamin B. Warfield to one of my family members who has been struggling with her health. What an encouragement it was to her and to all of us! This citation is from a sermon given by Dr. Warfield in Miller Chapel to his students at Princeton Theological Seminary. Over the course of his lengthy ministry of teaching systematic theology in the classroom (1887-1921), he also passionately exhorted his students from the pulpit. Let me share it with you…

Dr. B. B. Warfield (1851-1921)

“If God be for us who can be against us?” (Rom. 8:31) Let our hearts repeat this cry of victory today. And as we repeat it, let us go onward, in hope and triumph, in our holy efforts. Let our slack knees be strengthened and new vigor enter our every nerve. The victory is assured. The Holy Spirit within us cannot fail us. The way may be rough; the path may climb the dizzy ascent with a rapidity too great for our faltering feet; dangers, pitfalls are on every side. But the Holy Spirit is leading us. Surely, in that assurance, despite dangers and weakness, and panting chest and swimming head, we can find strength to go ever forward.”

— Warfield, Biblical and Theological Studies, 558

I pray the Lord will encourage and strengthen you to go forward by faith in the Christian life. The Holy Spirit who dwells within you, is stronger than all of the temptations and trials of this present world (1 Cor. 3:16 and 6:19-20; 1 John 4:4). His presence in our life is a great blessing, and one that we should regularly remind ourselves of. Recall as well, this ringing exclamation: “If God be for us who can be against us?” (Rom 8:31)

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

Source: Warfield, Benjamin Breckinridge. “A Sermon: The Leading of the Spirit” in Biblical and Theological Studies. Edited by Samuel G. Craig. Philadelphia, PA: Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 1968. [page 558] 

This is not a very clear photo–but here is my family and some dear friends gathered at the graves of B. B. Warfield and his wife in the Old Princeton Cemetery (“Heroes, History, and Hope Tour” 2013)

A Reformation Day Sermon: “The Lord is our Fortress” Psalm 46

October 27, 2025 /
The Wartburg Castle near Eisenach, Germany, is where Dr. Martin Luther was safely held for nearly a year in 1521-1522

“The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” Psalm 46:11

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to preach for Reformation Sunday at Redeemer Presbyterian Church (PCA) here in Austin, Texas. We have four pastors at Redeemer, and since I am the only one who is “semi-retired” I usually preach once or twice a year. Instead, my main role at Redeemer is focused on teaching. I regularly instruct adults in our School of Discipleship classes on Sunday mornings. Beyond that, I am the director of Redeemer Theological Academy teaching college-level courses in Biblical studies, Systematic Theology, Church History, Apologetics, and Ministry. This suits me quite well, and I am grateful to focus my energies on teaching at this point in life. Nonetheless, below is an audio file of my most recent sermon. Also, you will find an introduction to the sermon and an outline of the text. I hope you enjoy it!

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

* * * * * * * * * *

“The Lord is our Fortress” – Psalm 46:1-11

Direct, succinct, and pastoral–it is hard to beat Derek Kidner’s fine commentary on the Psalms.

Introduction: The image of a “fortress” or “stronghold” in relation to the Lord shows up in many passages in the Old Testament (e.g. 2 Sam. 22:1-4; Ps. 9:9; 18:2; 31:3; 71:3; 91:2; 144:2; Prov. 18:10; Jer. 16:19). It is a portrait of strength, security, and safety for the people of God. Indeed, the Lord is the only one who could provide such protection in times of trouble. He is the one who created all things and also controls all things (Ps. 103:19). Essentially, this word-picture of a “fortress” and “stronghold” teaches us the doctrine of the sovereignty of God. In other words, we can believe that when everything in our world seems to be falling apart we can take comfort from the fact that all things are firmly under the control of the Lord. Even when misfortunes come our way, or when wickedness is exalted, we can be confident that “The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble” (Prov. 16:4). This doesn’t mean that we never experience any difficulties and trials in life. It does mean, however, that God is in the midst of these difficulties and trials, and that he is able to bring good out of them (Rom. 8:28). Let us, then, go forward as those who trust in the sovereign rule of the Lord over all things in our own personal circumstances and in the tumultuous events of this world. Soli Deo Gloria!

Here is an outline of my sermon:
1. The Lord is our Refuge and Strength, (vs. 1-3)
2. The Lord is the Source of All Blessings, (vs. 4-5)
3. The Lord is the Ruler of the Nations, (vs. 6-9)
4. The Lord is the King of His Saints, (vs. 10-11)

These four volumes are good places to start if you want to know more about Martin Luther

Also, here is a short article about the fateful day that Martin Luther was kidnapped and taken to the Wartburg Castle.

The Day Martin Luther was Kidnapped!

Dr. Voddie Baucham, Jr. passes into Christ’s Presence

September 27, 2025 /

“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Ps. 116:15

I’ve only known Voddie Baucham through his fine books on the Christian family and the fact that my daughter-in-law, Micaela, grew up under his pastoral ministry at Grace Family Baptist Church in Houston, Texas. Briefly stated, he had a stellar impact upon the Southern Baptist Convention (through the Founders Ministry and his overseas teaching in Zambia). Moreover, he was an encouraging voice to many families in the broad home-schooling movement. Voddie was widely known as a persuasive and engaging preacher. He boldly addressed many conferences on the benefits of marriage and family, and he lived out these biblical admonitions in his own life by raising a solid Christian family.

Voddie was not shy about making controversial statements. For example, here is his rationale for male headship in the church and the home:

Dr. Voddie Baucham, Jr.

“When Paul argues for male headship in the church in 1 Timothy 2:12-13, he bases his argument on the Genesis account. Paul sees Adam’s headship in the garden of Eden as the basis for male headship today in the church and the home. The issue for Paul in marriage is not who’s smarter, stronger, or more important; for him, as well as for the other biblical writers, the question is one of God-ordained order. Thus Paul declares that ‘the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God’ (1 Cor. 11:3). This is a crucial point. If male headship is merely a preference, we have no right to argue for it as an essential element of family shepherding. If, however, it’s a truth based on God’s decree and design, we have no right to argue for anything else.”

— Voddie Baucham, Family Shepherds, 101  

This kind of argumentation is biblical, experiential, and rational. Many young Christian men have greatly benefited from Voddie’s clear articulation of the Bible’s teaching about male and female roles in marriage. His books have been like a fresh breeze that blows away all the smoke of a smoldering fire. The sad reality is that God’s structure for the family has been under attack for decades. Voddie has certainly done his part in reversing the trend by putting forward the Bible’s instruction for men as family shepherds. I pray others will now take up the mantle given that Voddie’s voice has been silenced.

Without question, his untimely death is a consequential loss to the Christian community, and it is one that perplexes me in light of the recent deaths of several other key Christian leaders–Dr. John MacArthur and Charlie Kirk. Why at this time, O Lord? Perhaps it is best to simply affirm that God knows when it is the right time to take his servants home to heaven (Ps. 116:15; John 14:1-6; Rom. 8:28). After all, we only “see through a glass darkly” (1 Cor. 13:12) and cannot comprehend the full picture of God’s sovereign plan (Deut. 29:29). Thus, we must trust that God’s ways are better than our own ways (Isa. 55:8-9)!

It is interesting to note that the Lord is currently raising-up lots of individuals to continue the ministries of both Dr. John MacArthur (in expository preaching), and Charlie Kirk (in evangelism and cultural engagement). And in this way, it is exciting to see how the Lord is expanding Christ’s kingdom! Many of those who are now stepping forward may have a new appreciation for Jonah–the reluctant prophet. No doubt, they are asking, “Why send me, O Lord?” But, they must also come to grips with the clear testimony of tens of thousands of reluctant individuals whom God raised-up for his divine purposes. In short, he will make you able to do the hard things that you fear (2 Cor. 3:4-6). The simple fact is that the Lord helps his people to be able to speak the truth in challenging times and under difficult circumstances. By faith, then, let us go forward!

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

I have used each one these books by Voddie Baucham to disciple young men on the subjects of fatherhood, family, and preparation for marriage–all of them are winners!

Our First Graduate from the Theological Academy!

September 26, 2025 /
Here is David Parker receiving his Certificate of Theological Studies. David is our first graduate from the Academy!

Yesterday, I had the special privilege of awarding David Parker his Certificate of Theological Studies from Redeemer Theological Academy! Over the past five years David faithfully completed six classes, along with exams and research papers, plus an extensive comprehensive exam at the conclusion of his studies. He exemplified the picture of a diligent student in his research and writing. I often had to remind him that his research papers did not have to be any longer than ten pages. But, he typically ignored my admonitions and wrote twenty page research papers! He so enjoyed the quest of digging deeper into theological subjects, that his zeal manifested itself in longer than required papers.

The goal of our Certificate of Theological Studies program is to equip the men and women of our congregation for various forms of ministry. We are not endeavoring to become a seminary, but we are a church-based theological education program that prepares our students to serve Jesus Christ in their own unique callings–that may be as Bible teachers (both formal and informal), small group leaders, church officers, missionaries, and evangelists. We offer in-person courses in Bible, Theology, Church History, Apologetics, and Ministry. Not all of our students have chosen to pursue the Certificate program. Each student can choose to audit classes (which have no requirements other than attending classes), or to take classes for credit towards the Certificate. It is your choice. All of our classes are offered free-of-charge.

If you find yourself in Austin, Texas on a Thursday, then feel free to drop by as a guest and see what we are all about. Our current classes are:

  • “Ecclesiology & Eschatology” (Systematic Theology III) — This class will be taught by Marcus Serven and meet on Thursday mornings [9:30-11:30]. Besides the weekly lectures and handouts, we will read The Glorious Body of Christ by R. B. Kuiper and Christ and the Future by Cornelis Venema. Sept. 18 through Dec. 11.
  • “The Old Testament Scripture” (Biblical Studies I & II) — This class will be a survey of all 39 books of the Old Testament, their authors and key themes. The class will be taught by Max Smith with readings given out each week—from your Bible and from various websites. It will meet on Thursday afternoons [12:30-2:30] Sept. 18 through Dec. 11.

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven, Director of Redeemer Theological Academy

Charlie Kirk: A Christian Martyr

September 13, 2025 /

Written by Dr. Marcus J. Serven

“Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, while evil people and imposters will go on from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived.” ——- 2 Timothy 3:12-13

When we hear the words “Christian martyr” typically we think of a person who died a long time ago for the sake of Jesus Christ. For example, the Romans brutally persecuted Christians in the Early Church putting many believers to death for their faith in Jesus Christ. Over the centuries, however, this horrendous practice has continued–Christians have been put to death because of their trust in God all around the globe. Interestingly, the word “martyr” actually means to be “a witness” (Gk. martureo = “to be a witness” “to bear witness” “to testify”; marturia = “a witness” “testimony” “a proof”). One of the wise fathers of the Early Church, Tertullian, prophetically wrote, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” Indeed!

As most adults know, Charlie Kirk was gunned down this past week while engaged in civil discourse on the campus of Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. It was a terrible moment that unfolded on the internet for all to see. In my opinion, Charlie Kirk is a “Christian martyr”–clearly he was “a witness” who bore a powerful testimony to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Watch a video from any one of his many debates on college campuses around the world and it is quickly evident that the foremost thought in his mind was to defend the core beliefs of his faith in Jesus Christ. Moreover, he sought to challenge the prevailing atheistic philosophies of this dark age–whether it was the ever-changing theories of evolution, the destructive purges of Marxism, the hopelessness of Nihilism, or the prevalent despair of Postmodernism. Charlie debated all of these errors with compassion, humor, irrefutable logic, a sharp wit, and an abundance of rational evidences for the reality of Jesus Christ. He was good at it, and those who hated God were threatened by his successes. For this he was assassinated.

Also, he will be widely remembered for making the important connection between his faith in Jesus Christ and how we are to live as Christians during this particular time in history. Dr. Francis Schaeffer asked the same essential question in his ground-breaking book, “How Should We Then Live?” Like Schaeffer, Charlie Kirk took his worldview from the Bible. As a result, he extolled the dignity of all humankind (Lat. imago Dei) in contrast to those who were eager to destroy babies in the womb through abortion. He defended God’s design of two sexes (male and female), rather than to undermine this fundamental reality. His political views probably got him in the most “hot water” as he debated all-comers on the college campus. But, it must be acknowledged that his political views were merely an extension of his faith in Christ and from what he read in the Bible. He brilliantly and forcefully answered the question–How Should We Then Live?

Here is Charlie Kirk doing what he loved best–contending for the truth on college campuses

He was reviled for his views on various cultural issues: abortion, the blessing of children, election integrity, a Christian view of history, the sacredness of biblical marriage, the wrongness of men competing in women’s sports, his conviction that transgenderism was a mental disorder, and the priority of the America First agenda in contrast to globalism. Again, these views were all extensions from his basic starting point–the true revelation that God had given through the Bible. Charlie Kirk will always be remembered as a sincere disciple of Jesus Christ, a devoted husband and father, and the founder of Turning Point USA. The Bible affirms the following truth about all who die in Christ:

“And I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.’ ‘Blessed indeed,’ says the Spirit, ‘that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!’” Revelation 14:13

Redeemer Theological Academy–Fall Classes (2025)

August 14, 2025 /
Redeemer Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Austin, Texas

“Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.” Col. 1:28

What is happening this coming Fall at Redeemer Theological Academy? We are offering two courses for our students–one in Systematic Theology and a second class in Biblical Studies. Here are the course descriptions:

Here are some of the books we have used in our classes so far–all of them are winners!
  • “Ecclesiology & Eschatology” (Systematic Theology III) — This class will be taught by Dr. Marcus Serven and meet on Thursday mornings [9:30-11:30 AM]. Besides the weekly lectures and handouts, we will read The Glorious Body of Christ by R. B. Kuiper and Christ and the Future by Cornelis Venema. Sept. 18 through Dec. 11.
  • “The Old Testament Scripture” (Biblical Studies I & II) — This class will be a survey of all 39 books of the Old Testament, their authors and key themes. The class will be taught by Mr. Max Smith with readings given out each week—from your Bible and from various websites. It will meet on Thursday afternoons [12:30-2:30 PM] Sept. 18 through Dec. 11.

Both classes will be held on the campus of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Calvin Hall, Room 206. They can be taken for credit (towards the Certificate in Theological Studies), or they can be audited (not requiring any exams or research papers). These are in-person classes and attendance is required for those taking the classes for credit. Each student is responsible to purchase their own books.

There is no tuition for our classes–they are offered free-of-charge for serious minded students who wish to grow deeper in their faith and to serve others in the name of Jesus Christ. I hope you can join us this Fall–if not as a regular student, then perhaps as a one-time visitor. Come and check it out!

— Dr. Marcus J. Serven

If You Have Questions: Contact the Director, Dr. Marcus J. Serven, with any inquiries you may have about the Academy: mserven@redeemerpres.com

To Sign-Up: Contact our Registrar, Mr. Ken Kieley, to sign-up for classes (one or both): ken.kieley@gmail.com

Another Semester Completed at Redeemer Theological Academy!

July 15, 2025 /
Here is a normal Thursday morning class at Redeemer Theological Academy–I am being peppered with questions by our eager students!

Below are a few pictures from our post-semester celebration at Rudy’s BBQ here in Austin, TX on May 15th. In these pictures some of us were caught with our mouths full of food–nevertheless a good time was had by all! Not everyone from our class was able to attend this celebratory BBQ. Typically, our class size was 20 students each week. The Lord continues to prosper this educational ministry of our church. We look forward to what He will do in the semesters that lay ahead. 

This past year (2024-2025) we studied the “History of the Early Church.” Starting with the Apostolic Age we worked our way through the key personalities, significant events, and important doctrinal formulations of the first four and a half centuries of the Church of Jesus Christ (up to the Council of Chalcedon in A.D. 451). It was an exciting study, and one that brought about a lot of fervent discussion and spiritual growth. We also read the Early Church Fathers and Augustine’s Confessions. Both volumes were outstanding!

In addition, Mr. Max Smith taught a class on “Survey of the New Testament Scriptures.” All twenty-seven books were surveyed and discussed. Class size varied between 3-5 students. We appreciate your prayers and encouraging words as we move forward by faith at Redeemer Theological Academy. 

Until next semester,

Dr. Marcus J. Serven

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