In this episode of the Expositors Collective Podcast, Mike Neglia is joined by Roberto Gazga, a hospice chaplain, lay preacher at Christ the King Reformed Baptist Church in Niles, Illinois, and host of the Urban Puritano podcast. Roberto is the author of Christ's Scope and Scepter: His Word, His World and is currently working on his forthcoming book, How to Preach Like a Puritan. Together, they explore Roberto’s journey into expository preaching, his theological evolution, and the unique perspective he brings to ministry through his work as a hospice chaplain.

Roberto doesn’t hold back when it comes to his concerns about the quadriga, the medieval method of interpreting Scripture in four layers (literal, allegorical, tropological, and anagogical). He finds it to be a confusing and, frankly, unnecessary system that muddies the waters of clear biblical interpretation. Instead, Roberto makes the case for a Christ-centered approach that’s as refreshing as it is practical. He brings up the idea of reading Scripture as a single, unified story where Christ is the star of the show—not buried under a pile of allegorical detours. If you’ve ever wondered how to preach Christ from all of Scripture without feeling like you’re walking on theological tightropes, Roberto’s insights will make you smile, think, and maybe even sigh in relief.

The conversation also highlights Roberto’s wisdom on pastoral care, drawing from his years of experience as a hospice chaplain. He shares practical advice for pastors making hospital visits, encouraging them to approach these situations with preparation, empathy, and the courage to lean into difficult moments. Roberto points out that a listening ear and a compassionate heart often open more doors than any pre-planned script. And when the moment is right, Scripture and prayer can transform even the most challenging conversations into opportunities for gospel hope. He and Mike share stories and insights that will leave you better equipped—and perhaps a bit less intimidated—about stepping into these sacred and sensitive spaces.

Roberto Gazga is a certified hospice chaplain in Chicago, where he earned a BA in theology from Moody Bible Institute. In his spare time, he produces written and podcast content for www.urbanpuritano.com related to the Bible, Reformed theology, preaching, and much more! He is also working on his forthcoming book, How to Preach Like a Puritan.

Christ's Scope and Scepter: His Word, His World:

https://www.amazon.com/Christs-Scope-Scepter-Word-World/dp/B0DL8HGMGQ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VxpvIhfuh3OLlw9gM4jruauM4bSfZg8MdOum-QXzG8j2il5Ujr8Iu5ScBW9naDEOgMZfrkgwdyFjKaoJtTIJUqR8-hFDiQ926C0re9UkguA.L9uMeVM-RfssiA1RTAyQj_ColyIJ3Ca-UXdogWfDKVk&dib_tag=se&keywords=christs+scope+and+scepter&qid=1737550608&sr=8-1

🎙How To Preach Like a Puritan:

https://share.transistor.fm/s/ace50a4b

🎙 Redemptive Historical Homiletics:

https://share.transistor.fm/s/82422c88

For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com

The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/

Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective

In this episode of the Expositors Collective Podcast, Mike Neglia speaks with Dr. Wayne Baxter, Associate Professor of New Testament and Greek at Heritage College & Seminary in Cambridge, Ontario. With a Ph.D. in Early Christianity from McMaster University and an M.Div. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Wayne combines academic expertise with years of pastoral experience, having served churches in Windsor, Ottawa, and Toronto. He’s the author of several books, including Preparing Sermons from the Page to the Pulpit: Exegesis to Exposition in Seven Steps, a practical guide to sermon preparation.

Wayne shares his journey from a non-church background to full-time ministry, reflecting on how his preaching has evolved from being overly technical to more accessible and engaging. He emphasizes the importance of situating Scripture within its broader context (co-text) and how this approach strengthens sermon preparation. Wayne also shares insights into sermon rehearsal, creative illustrations, and connecting Scripture to the daily lives of congregants.

Mike and Wayne discuss the challenges of itinerant preaching, the state of expository preaching today, and how pastors can balance theological depth with relevant application. Wayne’s heartfelt hope is that his book will bridge the gap between biblical study and impactful preaching, equipping pastors and seminarians to proclaim God’s Word faithfully. Whether you’re a seasoned preacher or just beginning your journey, this episode is packed with practical tools and encouragement to help you grow in your craft.

Links:
9 Marks Application Grid: https://simeontrust.org/application-grid-9marks/
30 Day Shred: https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/13745-30-day-shred
John Houseman: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0002144/
Philip Nation on how to be a good guest preacher: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/how-to-be-a-good-guest-speaker-how-much-you-should-tell-your-kids-about-church-drama-and-so-much-more

Wayne teaches at Heritage College & Seminary https://discoverheritage.ca/

You can find his book (and other Lexham Press authors who have been on the show here: https://lexhampress.com/Expositors

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For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com

The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/

Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective