Podcast Summary: Catholic Saints – Episode on St. John the Baptist
Podcast Information:
- Title: Catholic Saints
- Host: Augustine Institute (Taylor Kemp)
- Guest: Dr. John Seehorn
- Episode: St. John the Baptist
- Release Date: June 24, 2025
Introduction
In this insightful episode of Catholic Saints, host Taylor Kemp engages in a profound discussion with Dr. John Seehorn from the Augustine Institute. The focus of their conversation centers on St. John the Baptist, exploring his unique place in Catholic tradition, the significance of celebrating his nativity, and his pivotal role in the life of Jesus Christ.
Celebrating the Nativity of St. John the Baptist
Taylor Kemp opens the dialogue by questioning the rarity of celebrating a birthday within biblical narratives. He notes, “[00:54] Dr. John Seehorn: But this is not the question you asked me. You asked me why we celebrate John's birthday. Yeah.”
Dr. John Seehorn explains that only three birthday celebrations are recognized by the Catholic Church: Jesus Christ on December 25th, the Blessed Virgin Mary on September 8th, and St. John the Baptist on June 24th. He emphasizes John's exceptional status, citing Jesus' acknowledgment of him as “the greatest to be born of woman” (John 1:6)[02:30].
The discussion delves into the theological significance of these celebrations, highlighting that each of these figures was either cleansed of sin or preserved from original sin from the moment of conception. Dr. Seehorn elaborates, “[04:24] because all three of them are born having already either been cleansed of sin or having been preserved from original sin.”
Biblical Foundations and Prophetic Role
The conversation transitions to the biblical foundations of John the Baptist's mission. Dr. Seehorn references Luke 1, where the angel Gabriel announces John's birth, underscoring his divine mission to prepare the way for Jesus. He reflects, “[09:05]...the son that Zechariah and Elizabeth are to expect is one who has this special mission.”
They explore Isaiah's prophecies, particularly Isaiah 40:3, which Luke quotes to describe John as “the voice of one crying in the wilderness, prepare the way of the Lord” (Luke 3:3)[03:53]. Dr. Seehorn interprets this as a metaphor for John’s role in advocating repentance and smoothing the spiritual path for believers.
Taylor Kemp adds, “[08:31] it creates a distinction, which those things are important, but it really is an amazing thing. John the Baptist, the story of him being sanctified in the womb, it really is incredible.”
Liturgical Significance and Symbolism
The hosts discuss the symbolic timing of John’s nativity on June 24th, coinciding with the summer solstice—the longest day of the year. Dr. Seehorn connects this with June 24th being “just around the summer solstice” and Jesus’ birth near the winter solstice, symbolizing the decrease of John (light) and the increase of Jesus (the true Light)[07:37].
Taylor Kemp remarks on the cosmic symbolism, “[08:54] And the fact that this is set up between the summer solstice and the winter solstice, that everything is proclaiming the truths that...”
John the Baptist’s Ministry and Legacy
Dr. Seehorn delves deeper into John's ministry, referencing Luke chapter 3, where John preaches a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. He highlights John’s role as a prophet and his alignment with Old Testament traditions, stating, “[12:19] And that's not common normally in the Gospels. They typically don't share many Old Testament verses verbatim.”
The conversation touches on John’s humility and his acknowledgment of Jesus’ superior mission: “[07:37] Taylor Kemp: The bridegroom line. [07:39] Dr. John Seehorn: Right after that, when he says he must. [07:42] Dr. John Seehorn: He must increase, and I must decrease.”
They also explore John’s unique position as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments, preparing the way not only for Jesus’ ministry but also his passion and death. Dr. Seehorn notes, “[21:12]...he is the bookend of it. It's happened like he is. He is.”
Martyrdom and Fidelity
The hosts reflect on John’s martyrdom, his unwavering fidelity, and how it parallels Jesus’ own sacrifice. Dr. Seehorn connects John’s death to his role as a witness to marital fidelity and Jesus’ death as the embodiment of divine fidelity: “[20:39]...both of them, you could say, are martyrs to Fidelity.”
Conclusion
Taylor Kemp and Dr. John Seehorn conclude the episode by emphasizing the profound impact of John the Baptist’s life and ministry. They encourage listeners to engage deeply with the Gospel accounts to fully appreciate John’s role in salvation history.
Dr. John Seehorn encapsulates the essence of John’s mission: “[23:19] There is something about the connections between the Old and New Testament are just amazing...”
Taylor Kemp agrees, highlighting John’s enduring message: “[23:42]...his famous parting words, as you pointed out, that are just... the goal of our lives is the death to selves of all of the habitual attachments to sin so that Christ may live in us.”
Final Thoughts
This episode serves as a comprehensive exploration of St. John the Baptist’s life, his theological significance, and his enduring legacy within the Catholic faith. Through engaging dialogue and scriptural insights, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for John's pivotal role in preparing the way for Jesus Christ.
Notable Quotes:
- “[06:35] Dr. John Seehorn: It really is incredible.”
- “[07:37] Taylor Kemp: The bridegroom line.”
- “[12:19] Taylor Kemp: And that's not common normally in the Gospels.”
- “[23:19] Dr. John Seehorn: Maybe not. So there is so much more to say.”
Further Engagement:
Listeners are encouraged to watch the video interviews on formed.org and support the mission of the Augustine Institute by becoming a Mission Circle Partner at missioncircle.org.