Kitchen Table Theology
Where Coffee, Conversation, and Theology Meet. During my 40 years in ministry, I’ve developed an increasing burden for what I sense to be an increase in biblical illiteracy, not only among those in our churches, but also in the young men and women entering the ministry. Conversely, I am hopeful, because I also sense a hunger from people to learn and know biblical truth and the things of God has revealed to us in Scripture. Our Kitchen Table Theology team has developed a list of over 150 doctrinal topics which I, along with one of my cohosts, Jen Denton or Tiffany Coker, examine weekly. Our goal is to educate and share biblical truth on the same level as if we were sitting at your kitchen table with a Bible and a pot of southern pecan coffee in front of us. Welcome to the table!
Kitchen Table Theology
236 The Real Story of St. Patrick
When you think of St. Patrick, what comes to mind—green beer, shamrocks, and leprechauns? The real story of Patrick of Ireland is far more powerful and inspiring. In this special bonus episode, Pastor Jeff steps away from our denominational series to share the true history of St. Patrick, the man who brought Christianity to Ireland and left a lasting legacy of faith.
Here’s What We Discussed:
01:35 – The Origins of St. Patrick’s Day
Each year, millions gather to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, often unaware of the man behind the holiday. From Savannah’s large-scale parade to Chicago’s tradition of dyeing the river green, the day is widely recognized, yet few know the historical and spiritual significance.
03:18 – St. Patrick Wasn’t Irish
Born around 373 AD, likely in Britain or possibly near Glasgow, Scotland, Patrick was not Irish. Captured by pirates at age 16, he was sold into slavery to an Irish chieftain, where he spent years tending sheep and witnessing the brutal pagan culture of the time.
05:55 – A Spiritual Awakening in Captivity
During six years of enslavement, Patrick experienced a profound spiritual transformation. Through prayer and suffering, his faith deepened, leading him to eventually commit his life to Christ. His own writings record how adversity brought him to his knees before God.
08:52 – Escape and the Call to Return
After escaping captivity, Patrick found refuge in France, where he entered a monastery and took the Latin name "Patricus." Years later, he experienced a divine call to return to Ireland—not as a captive, but as a missionary to the very people who had enslaved him.
10:36 – A Missionary to Ireland
Patrick spent nearly 29 years preaching the gospel across Ireland. Fluent in the Irish language, he baptized over 120,000 people and established more than 300 churches, leading a spiritual transformation that turned a pagan nation toward Christianity.
11:55 – Legends: Snakes and Shamrocks
Among the legends surrounding St. Patrick is the claim that he drove all the snakes out of Ireland—though this is likely symbolic, representing his battle against paganism. Another enduring story tells of Patrick using a three-leaf clover to explain the Christian doctrine of the Trinity to a skeptical king.
13:12 – St. Patrick’s Breastplate Prayer
Before facing his enemies, Patrick prayed for divine protection. His prayer, known as “St. Patrick’s Breastplate,” remains a powerful expression of faith, invoking Christ’s presence in every aspect of life—from the moment of rising to every encounter with others.
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Remember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!