455 avsnitt • Längd: 45 min • Veckovis: Tisdag
The Thinking Fellows is a 45-minute podcast about theology, philosophy, Christian history, and apologetics. It is hosted by Scott Keith, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman. The Thinking Fellows bring high-level subject matters to fun and insightful lay-level conversations each week.
The podcast Thinking Fellows is created by 1517 Podcasts. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
The Thinking Fellows talk about the limitations of scientific progress. Skepticism of previous scientific advancements in medicine and chemical engineering has paved the path for more people to question technological progress and the good it can do for humanity. Yet many skeptics still look to the future and advancing technology as a solution for death, suffering, and sin. By understanding the realities of sin and death, Christians can walk a realistic line where technology can be leveraged for the good of this life and neighbor. Still, we know it will never solve death and can always be used to accomplish evil means.
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What’s New from 1517:
Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi
Take 20% Off Our Lenten Devotionals until March 5th:
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In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, Caleb Keith, Scott Keith, and Adam Francisco discuss the relevance of epistemology versus worldview in the context of Christian engagement with culture and society. They explore the historical development of these concepts, their utility for understanding different belief systems, and the challenges of navigating a pluralistic society.
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In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the Fellows explore the complex history of the Crusades, their origins, motivations, and the theological implications that arise from them. They discuss Pope Urban II's call to arms and the evolution of the Crusades from a war of liberation to a series of hard-to-follow conflicts. The conversation emphasizes the distinction between political and religious acts, the role of the church, and the implications for contemporary Christian thought.
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In this episode, Caleb Keith, Scott Keith, and Adam Francisco discuss the viral appearance of Wesley Huff on Joe Rogan's podcast. They explore the impact of the conversation on Christian apologetics, the nature of truth and science, and the role of miracles in faith. The discussion also delves into textual criticism, cultural context, and the theological insights presented during the interview. The hosts reflect on the effectiveness of Huff's approach and the importance of continuing the conversation about faith in a modern context.
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The Thinking Fellows dive into the life and work of the Venerable Bede, one of the most influential figures in early Christian history. Often called the "Father of English History," Bede's Ecclesiastical History of the English People shaped our understanding of the Church's growth in Britain. This episode explores Bede's contributions to theology, historiography, and education, and considers how his work continues to inspire Christian scholarship today.
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The Fellows discuss medieval theology by surveying Bonaventure's The Soul's Journey Into God and note the scholastic tendency to speculate from God's general natural revelation. These developments in scholastic theology, in part, led to the necessity of the Reformation.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
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Eusebius was one of the greatest historians of the early church. The Fellows discuss his contributions to theology and history. The episode pays special attention to the way Eusebius treats the Old Testament. Eusebius starts his history of the church at the beginning of Genesis and asserts that Christianity is not a novel faith but the faith of all Old Testament believers.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
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Amy Mantravadi joins Caleb and Bruce to discuss her novel Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation. Amy was inspired to follow the lives and conflicts of Martin Luther, Desiderius Erasmus, and Philipp Melanchthon. The episode dives into the history behind the novel and the significance of Luther's The Bondage of the Will.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
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Support 1517 This Giving Tuesday
This is Caleb Keith, director of the 1517 Podcast Network. Today, as many of you may know, is Giving Tuesday. On this special day, I have a question for you: Does this podcast bring Jesus and His Gospel of peace into your life on a regular basis? At 1517, our mission—and the mission of the 1517 Podcast Network—is to declare and defend the Good News that we are forgiven and free through the death and resurrection of Christ alone. Because of Jesus, God has made peace with you and continues to actively give you His peace. You can give by visiting 1517.org or by following the link in the show notes.
The Fellows discuss St. Gregory of Nyssa's Catechetical Discourse, a series of objections and answers to confessions of the Christian faith. It was designed to educate new Christians on essential doctrines like the Trinity and atonement. Caleb leads the conversation by asking how the catechesis of the past can inform Christian education today.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
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The Thinking Fellows are starting a new series highlighting the history of Christian thought. For the next several weeks, the Fellows explore books written by great thinkers throughout Christian history. Bruce Hilman leads this first episode and covers St. John Chrysostom's On the Priesthood.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
More from the hosts:
High stakes and emotions regarding national politics produce situations Christians must meaningfully and thoughtfully navigate. Christians are embodied and specifically located creatures with vocations that demand political conciseness and often involvement. Yet these political situations and outcomes are not the object or sum of the faith. This episode explores the consequences of winning and losing elections and how Christian involvement and thought distinguish between faith and vocation so that we do not trust in princes but in Christ while faithfully serving our neighbors.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
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This special episode of the Thinking Fellows was recorded live at the Here We Still Stand conference. Magnus Person joins the Fellows to discuss a response to the feeling that the church is in decline. They acknowledge the real pressure Christians in America and the West, in general, are feeling right now while confidently confessing that the church belongs to God and will continue forever.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
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The Thinking Fellows give readers a short list of books they find essential for understanding Lutheranism. The list below includes books that contextualize the story and doctrinal formation of the Reformation. This Library should help both people who are unfamiliar with Lutheranism and those familiar with Lutheran doctrine but would like a better historical picture of who the Lutherans are.
Berg, Michael. Vocation: The Setting for Human Flourishing
Elert, Werner. The Structure of Lutheranism
Kolb, Robert. The Christian Faith: A Lutheran Exposition
Nestingen, James, and Gerhard O. Forde. Free to Be
Paulson, Steven D. Luther for Armchair Theologians
Trueman, Carl R. Luther on the Christian Life: Cross and Freedom
Various, and Martin Luther. Day by Day with Martin Luther
Veith, Jr. Gene E. God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life
Wisløff, Carl F. I Know in Whom I Believe: Studies in Bible Doctrine
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
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The Thinking Fellows recall the legacy of renowned apologist John Warwick Montgomery. Before his death Dr. Montgomery was a senior fellow at 1517 and had a tremndous impact on the field of Christian apologetics. The fellows recall time they had spent with Dr. Montgomery and his impact on the founding members of 1517.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
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Spirituality is not a friend of Christianity. More and more people abandon Christianity while maintaining spiritual beliefs, practices, or superstitions. Dr. Michael Horton joins the Thinking Fellows to discuss the deep history and gnostic roots of the spiritual problems in the West today. Dr. Horton has researched and addressed this topic in numerous ways over the last 30 years and has compiled his expertise into a new volume of books on the subject. The first of the volumes, Shaman and Sage: The Roots of Spiritual But Not Religious, is available now.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
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Adam, Bruce, and Caleb discuss eschatology. What are Christianity's essential teachings regarding the last things or end times? Why do some sects of Christianity hyper-fixate on the end times? The fellows address these questions and more this week.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
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In this week's episode, Scott, Bruce, and Caleb discuss the doctrine of election. They emphasize the importance of God's electing through his Word. This locates election in an external act done for you rather than solely in the mind of God. This Lutheran distinction avoids the pitfall of free choice while not relying on the logical constructs of double predestination.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
Listen to 1517 Executive Director Scott Keith and Magnus Persson on the latest Re:Formera podcast
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride Through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament by Chad Bird
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The Fellows discuss the doctrine of public ministry. The conversation focuses on why it is necessary for Christians to gather togteher as a church and call a pastor. God has made his saving work public through the proclimation of the Word.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride Through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament by Chad Bird
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Caleb and Bruce have a conversation about the doctrine of the church. They work to define how the church is all those with faith in Christ and the gathering of individual believers whom God has called together in specific locations. The conversation focuses on the distribution of the Gospel, which is the unique and essential purpose of gathering together for worship. Bruce and Caleb also emphasize the importance of individual church attendance.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride Through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament by Chad Bird
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This episode of the Thinking Fellows gives an overview of the Lutheran doctrine of the Lord's Supper. The fellows discuss the how and why of the Supper, primarily referencing Christ's institution of the Sacrament before his crucifixion. They also discuss some controversies and disagreements Christians have regarding belief and practice.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride Through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament by Chad Bird
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The Thinking Fellows talk about the saving power of Baptism. They cover the how and why of Baptism and have a long conversation about its various controversies. The Fellows strongly argue infant baptism and explain why Christian doctrine is not a pick-and-choose situation.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride Through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament by Chad Bird
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Scott, Adam, and Caleb discuss the Olympic Opening Ceremonies. During the ceremonies, an LGBTQ rendition of the Last Supper was acted out with transexuals and gay icons. This was an apparent offense to Christians all over the world and highlights the destructive religious ideologies at play in our culture today. The Fellows discuss why Christians should not be surprised that their faith is under attack and how they might respond generally and also in their specific vocations.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
The Inklings: Apostles and Apologists of the Imagination with Sam Schuldheisz
Hitchhiking with Prophets: A Ride Through the Salvation Story of the Old Testament by Chad Bird
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the distinction between law and gospel. They explain what it means that this distinction exists in all the Scripture. They also speak about the distinction between preaching and reading the Bible and why law and gospel are essential for preaching.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss how the means of grace preserve and sustain us in the faith. The fellows identify how God delivers his saving Word through means and the importance of gathering together to revive God's promises. The power to remain in the faith is a gift that comes from outside of the Christian and not a power from within.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss sanctification, a doctrine from which Lutherans and other Protestants differ significantly. Here, we assert that the doing of good works does not accomplish sanctification but instead that good works result from the gift of sanctification already delivered in faith.
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Justification is famously called the article upon which the church stands or falls. It is the article upon which The Lutheran Reformation stood boldly and confessed the Scriptural truth that we are made right before God by grace through faith on account of Christ alone. The Thinking Fellows address the central concepts that help us orginze and understand justification as a doctrine whihc the church not only teaches but proclaims boldly.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the doctrine of faith. Faith is not an ability or power inside of you but a gift from God. They highlight how faith and its gifts are given as a certainty, not as a series of lifelong questions and challenges. God has given and preserved your faith by the power of his Word and Spirit and not by your will or works.
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What does it mean that Jesus Christ is Prophet, Priest, and King? Throughout salvation history, God ordained offices to serve His people. Jesus Christ is the total fulfillment of each office. The Fellows describe how Christ fulfills each office and how the work of salvation in Christ is for you.
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The Thinking Fellows introduce the doctrine of Christ. They discuss why topics like the two natures in Christ, the communication of attributes, and the co-equality of the trinity matter. The Fellows describe why this doctrine can be summarised quickly in creeds or explored extensively in tomes.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the doctrine of man. What is humanity? What is human nature? What does it mean that man is sinful? These essential theological questions are building blocks of dogmatic theology in that they reveal the broken relationship between humanity and God. The doctrine of man sends us to our need for a savior and redemption.
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The Thinking Fellows are live from the Here We Still Stand regional event in North West Arkansas. Bob Hiller and John Moffit join Caleb and Scott Keith. The Fellows discuss the Reformation's shift on grace and why it is essential to locate God's grace and graciousness not generically but firmly in Christ.
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Jennifer Roback Morse joins the Thinking Fellows to discuss the sexual revolution. Jennifer is the founder and president of the Ruth Institute and has authored several books concerning the consequences of the sexual revolution. This conversation helps reveal that the sexual revolution is more than the normalization of hypersexualized behavior. Instead, the sexual revolution is a combination of worldviews that have negatively impacted us all.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the doctrine of God. Who is God? is a foundational question that every major thinker and religion has attempted to answer. What is truly amazing is that we do not need to speculate about who God is. Instead, God reveals himself to us through His Word and lets us know exactly who he is and what he has done for us.
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Scripture is the source of Christian theology. What do we mean by Scripture, and what does it mean to have a norm? The Thinking Fellows discuss how proper theology is not speculative or originating from personal revelation, but is instead from the font of the prophetic and apostolic books of the Old and New Testament.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the basic methodological principles of theology. Commonly called prolegomena, the front matter of Christian dogmatics is outlining your purpose and methods. The fellows focus on the centrality of Sola Scriptura for Christian dogmatics and why differing conclusions arise between Christians.
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What is dogmatic or syetsmatic theology and why should you care about it? The Thinking Fellows introduce a new series on dogmatics. In the coming weeks and months, the Fellows will follow the outline of Franz Piepers dogmatics. Each episode will cover a common theological topic and teach the essence of these categories.
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To what extent should Christians engage with methodological materialism? This week, the fellows address the harms that the general adoption of materialism has caused. However, they also discuss the benefits of engaging with the material world and utilizing methodologies that arise out of materialism.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the importance of the Christian community. How do we serve and preserve this community? The conversation focuses on how the distinction between law and gospel is essential. in the advancement and life of the community.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
New 1517 Academy Course: The Early Church: Christ, Controversies and Characters with Bruce Hillman
Preorder: Encouragement for Motherhood Edited by Katie Koplin
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Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman address the opinion that Roman Catholics are not Christians. The fellows conclude that Roman Catholics are not by necessity excluded from saving faith and trust in Jesus Christ. This leads to a conversation about how specific confessions and denominations are still necessary, even if affiliation with the correct group is not the sole indicator of saving faith.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
New 1517 Academy Course: The Early Church: Christ, Controversies and Characters with Bruce Hillman
Preorder: Encouragement for Motherhood Edited by Katie Koplin
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The Thinking Fellows get together and discuss how the concept of three ordered estates helps inform Christians in living out their vocations. Why do we so often focus on the political estate while skipping over the family and the church when talking about the problems in our world? The Fellows propose ideas as to how to apply an understanding of the estates in your life.
Show Notes:
What’s New from 1517:
New 1517 Academy Course: The Early Church: Christ, Controversies and Characters with Bruce Hillman
Preorder: Encouragement for Motherhood Edited by Katie Koplin
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The Thinking Fellows discuss why defining the Gospel carefully and constantly is essential. Many Christian organizations claim their mission is to preach the Gospel, but more often than not, what they mean by "gospel" is the law or simple Christian living. How do organizations like 1517 deal with criticism that they reduce or ignore Christian living in favor of a "just preach the gospel" mentality?
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On this episode of the Thinking Fellows, we remember the legacy and impact of Rod Rosenbladt.
The 1517 family mourns the death of Dr. Rod Rosenbladt. For many, he was known as “Dad Rod,” and to others, he was known as professor, friend, and mentor.
To generations of budding theologians, he will be fondly remembered as a significant influence in molding and shaping their worldview by helping them to understand the freedom found in the nail-scarred hands and feet of Jesus as the Savior of the world.
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People who leave the Christian faith frequently cite a misalignment of personal values as a driving factor. What can Christians do with this information? Are there ways to establish and hold onto Christian values from generation to generation? How do our vocations impact our obligation to uphold and teach valued principles alongside the essentials of the faith
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Is God silent? Can Christians hear the voice of God? Are there still prophets? The Thinking Fellows spend this week's episode addressing concerns and questions about the silence of God. Many people use God's supposed silence as proof of his existence. In contrast, others claim to have received specific revelations from him. The Thinking Fellows address the ways that God has and continues to speak to his creation.
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Magnus Persson joins Scott and Caleb Keith to discuss the decline of Christianity in Europe. The conversation leads to an important defining and reimagining of the Christian mission. Maguns and the Fellows conclude that the church needs to refocus Christians on the needs of their local neighbors to hear the Gospel.
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Is human technology innately evil? To what extent does technology enable or empower evil? The Thinking Fellows consider the reality that ever-advancing technologies surround and enhance our lives. They explore what it means that technology has no agency but is built and used by sinners. The episode closes with some ideas about using and adopting technology while being watchful.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the idea that Christmas has pagan roots. They refute the notion that Christians stole critical religious practices and beliefs from older religions. They also discuss the reality of components of Christmas celebrations distinct from faith in Christ, such as Christmas trees, lights, and even the date of celebration, which are handed down pieces of culture rather than commands from Scripture.
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Can you trust the science? Science has brought many advancements and discoveries, but can it be relied upon? Is it possible to use scientific methodology while being skeptical of ideological conclusions? The Thinking Fellows discuss the importance of scientific methods and intellectual honesty in this week's episode.
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Hamas attacked Israel on October 7th, 2023; the bloody conflict leaves some Christians asking theological questions about the modern state of Israel. Is the current state of Israel or even contemporary Judaism the particular object of promises from God? Do Christians have an obligation to Israel and its political interests? The Thinking Fellows discuss the creation of Israel, asserting that it is a distinctly political object and not a nation specially chosen or preserved by God for eschatological reasons.
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Where have all the Christians gone? New research reveals that this question is becoming more common as Americans abandon Christianity. Is this data helpful, and can it help guide those raising the next generation of Christians?
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Caleb and Bruce are joined by Blake Flattley and Flame to discuss their new album, Freedom Lessons. Freedom Lessons follows Luther's Small Catechism to bring the riches of God's forgiveness and freedom to audiences through a creative musical collaboration. The episode focuses on the artistic decisions necessary to make good music with a solid theological foundation and message.
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The Thinking Fellows are live from Here We Still Stand 2023. The original cast is joined by special guest Greg Koukl of Stand to Reason to discuss the lasting impact of C.S. Lewis. The conversation focuses on the ability of Lewis to communicate effectively and clearly across disciplines. Lewis stands as a model for Christians to learn how to declare and defend the good news that we are forgiven and free on account of Christ alone.
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In this episode, Caleb interviews Bruce about his new video series. Bruce is hosting a new series on X discussing gray space. Bruce defines gray space as those issues that are not solved with simple "black and white" answers.
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The Thinking Fellows talk about the tension between doubt and faith. Bruce and Adam specify the difference between existential and intellectual doubts. Finally, the Fellows think about how to address the doubts and pains of other Christians. The episode concludes with how Christians can declare confident and sure promises from Christ.
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The Thinking Fellows close their series on the Solas of the Reformation with an episode on Sola Scriptura or "Scripture Alone." The Thinking Fellows are led by Adam Francisco this week to highlight the centrality of Scripture. They discuss misunderstandings about Sola Scriptura and how the Scriptures reveal Christ and his Gospel.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the history and importance of the phrase "Solus Christus" or Christ Alone. They cover why Christ Alone became a rallying cry of the reformation. Christ Alone excludes unbiblical ad-ons to justification and salvation like the other Solas of the Reformation.
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Faith alone is likely the earliest sola slogan used during the Reformation. The Thinking Fellows discuss why affirming justification by faith alone is so significant. Why do some traditions accept the idea of justification by faith but drop the "alone?" The Fellows close by explaining how faith alone delivers assurance to troubled and doubting consciences.
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What does it mean that we are saved by grace alone? The Thinking Fellows embarked on a new set of episodes focused on "Solas" of the Reformation. In this episode, they look at Sola Gratia or Grace Alone. They discuss the phrase's origin and use, outlining how the exclusive participle redefines and repositions the doctrine of grace within Lutheran Theology.
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Dr. John Hoyum hosts an episode of the Thinking Fellows discussing virtue ethics. The Fellows first define virtue ethics and its resurgence in Christian conversations. They then ask if virtue ethics is a helpful and good way of approaching the Christian life.
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The Thinking Fellows revisit the topic of friendship. Who are your friends, and why do you need them? Can your spouse fulfill the entirety of your need for friends? Is there a distinction between Christian and non-Christian friends? The fellows explore these questions and more.
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Are accountability groups a good idea? The Thinking Fellows discuss the potential use of accountability groups in the church. They suggest some ways in which carving out space for strong male friendships is valued in the church while being cautious about issues surrounding discipline and sanctification.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss movies they enjoy watching. The conversation revolves around the presence of theological and moral meaning in film. How should we interpret movies, and are they valuable or edifying for Christians to analyze and use in analogy?
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Bruce, Adam, and Caleb discuss the textual and narrative differences between the four gospel accounts of Jesus' life and ministry. Should the differences worry Christians? How should Christians respond when confronted with supposed contradictions and errors in Scripture?
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Is your happiness an indicator of God's relationship with you? Are emotions a good indicator of divine revelation? The Thinking Fellows consider the purpose and place of happiness in the Christian life. In doing so, they discuss why it's essential to re-center our definition of happiness and preach the happiness of the Gospel while not relying upon emotions for divine revelation.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the history and position of the Apocrypha for Lutherans. They present critical reasons for rejecting the Apocrypha from the biblical canon. Similarly, they discuss why the "removal" of the apocryphal books is not a strong polemic against Lutherans regarding Sola Scripture. However, they also discuss ways in which reading apocryphal books can be helpful.
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Adiaphora is a theological term that means "indifference." It typically refers to practices that are neither commanded nor forbidden by God in Scripture. The Lutheran churches have historically used adiaphora as a method for explaining and allowing reasonable liturgical and personal piety differences between churches to exist while remaining unified around the core confessions of the church. The fellows discuss why understanding adiaphora is important and how it can benefit the church.
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The Thinking Fellows weigh on one of the most tense issues that affect Churches. What are parents to do when their children's extracurricular activities get scheduled on Sunday? The Fellows discuss ways to increase parental and particularly paternal commitment to church attendance.
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The Fellows give some books and other recommendations. In the early years of Thinking Fellows, book recommendation episodes were a frequent fan favorite. The Fellows return with recommendations, both new and old.
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Book List:
Vocation The Setting of Human Flourishing
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In this episode, the Thinking Fellows discuss the centrality and importance of Christians' doctrinal content and confessions. They ask how this doctrinal core differs from other world religions. The end of the episode focuses on the place and purpose of Christian practices and how they are shaped and impact doctrine.
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In this episode, the Thinking Fellows ask, what are sacred spaces, and do we need them? Bruce Hillman helps define what a holy space is while the fellows discuss the societal and religious functions that they serve. They conclude with examples of how Christianity uses sacred spaces such as churches but is uniquely authorized to do God's work in word and sacrament apart from a "temple" when necessary.
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In this episode, the Thinking Fellows discuss the idea of orthodoxy. What does it mean to be orthodox or to have an orthodox faith? They look at the utility of identifying orthodoxy and also at the importance of distinguishing between denominational differences and heresy.
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The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts
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This week, Caleb and Scott are joined by Dan Price to introduce the latest 1517 Podcast, "Tough Texts." On Tough Texts, Dan and Scott address classically tricky passages of Scripture and meet these texts with a plain reading. In this episode, Caleb asks Dan and Scott what it means for Scripture to be clear and how clarity and difficulty can be present in a text.
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Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss J. Gresham Machen's work Christianity and Liberalism. This first episode of a two-part podcast delivers an introduction to Machen and the context of American Protestantism during the early twentieth century. The Fellows praise Machen's book as prophetic while noting that it is refreshingly plain and easy to approach. Check back next week for their commentary on specific chapters of the book.
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Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss J. Gresham Machen's work Christianity and Liberalism. This first episode of a two-part podcast delivers an introduction to Machen and the context of American Protestantism during the early twentieth century. The Fellows praise Machen's book as prophetic while noting that it is refreshingly plain and easy to approach. Check back next week for their commentary on specific chapters of the book.
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What responsibilities do individual Christians and their churches possess to fight against an antagonistic culture? The Thinking Fellows attempt to distinguish between the vocational necessities of being a citizen and the function of the Church to proclaim the Gospel. The fellows conclude that life in this world has no easy answers but that keeping the proper work of the Church and the demands of Christian citizens distinct from one another.
The Thinking Fellows enter treacherous waters. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce look to define the word "woke" and observe how political ideology functions or substitutes religion. Adam gives a historical overview of the development and use of the term, and the other fellows offer commentary about engaging in a political world without compromising the central mission of the church to proclaim Christ crucified for the forgiveness of sin.
The Thinking Fellows celebrate easter with a conversation about the resurrection of Jesus. The entire Christian faith rests on this one truth and promise that Christ has risen from and done so for you. The fellows read 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 and shared their confidence in the reality and accomplishments of Christ's resurrection.
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Are Christianity and psychology compatible? Caleb, Scott, and Bruce look at the relationship between the social sceinces and the Christian faith. The subject of mental health and care are important in today's soceity and culture but require careful navigation by Christians.
In the cultural debate over God's existence, should the burden of proof rest on atheism rather than theism? Are Christianity and its account of the world more reasonable than atheism? Caleb, Adam, and Bruce address these questions and more in this apologetics-focused episode of the Thinking Fellows.
Caleb, Adam, and Bruce revisit the relationship between faith and reason. This time they ask, is there a limit to Christian engagement in philosophy? They outline the distinction between theology and philosophy and explore the benefits of being educated and aware of philosophical thought and practice.
Are theology and philosophy compatible? Caleb, Adam, and Bruce explore the relationship between faith and reason. They define the differences between theology and philosophy and attempt to outline the unique roles they serve. Philosophy is an essential discipline, but it cannot deliver faith and salvation.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the notion of worldliness. What does it mean to be worldly? Can a Christian participate in worldly things? Caleb Keith, Scott Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman address these questions and more in the latest episode.
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Over the last several weeks, the news has been abuzz with UFOs. Incidents like these often result in speculation regarding the existence of aliens. While this speculation is not always meaningful, it has in the past been leveraged against Christians. Many materialists and pop scientists suggest that the Christian faith crumbles if aliens really exist. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss these ideas and concerns.
How does the Christian faith interact with culture? Adam Francisco, Bruce Hillman, and John Hoyum discuss the role of the Christian faith in contrast and conjunction with society and culture. They cover a broad set of opinions and authors to give a picture of how vital this question has been and remains for western Christians.
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Scott Keith, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman discuss the final book in The Lord of the Rings series. They discuss temptation, darkness, and the relativity of interpreting Tolkien. They debate the more profound meaning and moral lessons that Tolkien leaves behind and rank Tolkien's work amongst other literary classics.
The Two Towers (Lord of the Rings Trilogy)
Scott Keith, Adam Francisco, Caleb Keith, and Bruce Hilman discuss the second book in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. The Two Towers opens to a broken fellowship set on two distinct but interwoven journeys against the Dark Lord Sauron. This fragmented journey cements that a new age is coming to Middle Earth, the Age of Men. How do Tolkien's characters deal with temptation and resist the power of darkness?
Caleb Keith and Scott Keith join Steven Paulson and Ken Jones to remember their mentor Jim Nestingen. Jim was a pastor and doctor of the church who taught many to proclaim and absolve in the name of Christ. 1517 has been deeply influenced by Jim, and this episode is meant to honor and remember that impact and support. We look forward to the resurrection, where we will be able to laugh with Jim once more.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss memorable parts of 2022 and look forward to 2023. Scott hosts this episode and introduces the newest "Scholar in Residence" at 1517, Bruce Hilman. Bruce will continue to join the fellows for regular episodes in 2022.
The Thinking Fellows discuss J.R.R. Tolkien's first book in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. They identify differences in style and scope from the Hobbit while discussing the apparent theological and philosophical themes. How does this pilgrim tail contribute to the literature, and is it uniquely Christian?
The Thinking Fellows wish their listeners a Merry Christmas. They discuss the son "Mary Did You Know" and a notable trend of churches closing for Christmas.
The Thinking Fellows discuss J.R.R. Tolkiens The Hobbit. The Fellows outline what they liked and what they found challanging about reading and analyzing Tolkiens first fantasy novel. The Hobbit is a whimsical journey that sparked the reveival of the fantasy genre and echos of Tolkiens Roman Catcholic faith.
The Thinking Fellows prepare to read the fictional works of J.R.R. Tolkien. Caleb and Adam discuss what makes Tolkien unique and some of the challenges of analyzing his work. In particular, they focus on Tolkien as a devout Roman Catholic. Tolkien's Roman practice of the Christian faith colors his work in a way that is different from protestant authors like C.S. Lewis and helps explain why his work is not always clearly "Christian" to outside readers.
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Caleb, Scott, and Adam are joined by John Hoyum to talk about how churches across the world read and preach the Bible. John is a Junior Fellow at 1517 and the co-host of the new podcast Preaching the Text with Steve Paulson. The discussion revolves around the lectionary, which is assigned Bible readings that churches use during worship. How do these readings get assigned? What benefits and drawbacks are there to using a lectionary rather than reading the Bible book-by-book?
The Thinking Fellows discuss and describe the things they are thankful for this year. While somewhat cliche, the fellows all explain how they have been blessed by their families and the work of 1517. Scott gives a helpful reminder that even though social times are changing and challenging, life is still very comfortable and good for many people, and we have many reasons to give thanks for God's blessings.
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The Thinking Fellows comment on Psalm 146. "Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish." How do this and other passages affect how Christians view their political actions and vocations? Can Christians be active in the civil realm without violating this precept?
The Fellows discuss the purpose and place of literary apologetics. They look at the role of narrative and imagination when doing theology and how it can help address those in need of Christ. They discuss the significance of good literature written by Christians like C.S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkein and how they can remind theologians that theology is not just categories but needs a narrative.
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In this episode, The Thinking Fellows address the idea that the Reformation is not worthy of celebration but is lamentable. The Fellows contend that the Reformation ought to be celebrated for its recovery of the Gospel. Likewise, history tells us that Luther alone did not divide the catholic church but that separation and division have always been in the history of the Church on earth.
The Thinking Fellows are joined by Dr. Jack Kilcrease to discuss the centrality and importance of the doctrine of the Word. Jack is the author of Justification by the Word, a new book published through Lexham Academic. In the book, Jack outlines how God uses his Word not just to describe sin and righteousness but uses the Word to make sinners righteous in Christ.
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The Thinking Fellows recorded a live show in Sandiego, California. For this episode, they ask, "What did Luther mean when he said his conscience was captive to the Word of God?" The Fellows each give an answer and explain the significance of Luther's stand at Worms.
The Thinking Fellows have Bruce Hillman on the show to discuss postmodernism. Bruce has extensively studied the development of postmodernism and helps give a history of its intellectual origins. The fellows also discuss the impact and fallout that postmodernism has had on our culture and the church.
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In this episode, the Thinking Fellows discuss what it means and looks like to live in a culture of nihilists. The fellows propose that postmodernism and atheistic materialism have entered the cultural conscience and are displayed and celebrated in media and art.
Scott and Caleb are joined by Joshua Keith to talk about the new Lord of the Rings T.V. series. Is the series a faithful adaptation of Tolkien's work? How has Lord of the Rings influenced the fantasy for movies and television? If you are a fan of Tolkien's literary work, should you watch the show?
Christians today need to realize that they live in a secular age. How do we navigate a world that goes on its merry way without referencing or acknowledging God? How does secularism different from materialism? Should Christians combat secularism or merely accept it?
Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss World War I and World War II. How did these wars shape the society and culture we live in today? What philosophical and theological ideas led to the wars, and what happened to philosophy and theology after them? Ultimately, these events affected every facet of life, and the better we understand them, the better we can grasp the world we live in now.
Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss the idea of challenging and complex tasks. How do we both personally and vocationally benefit from undergoing difficult situations? Does doing hard things intersect with our theology of justification?
If you are excited to learn from the primary sources of the Reformation, what should you start reading and why? The Thinking Fellows discuss the prime movers of the Reformation and their essential works.
Caleb and Adam talk about the utility and necessity of apologetics. They discuss how apologetics has changed with postmodernism but how the essential truths of Christianity have not. They also spend time distinguishing between the need to preach to people struggling with pain, sadness, and anger instead of arguing or debating with that person. While apologetics may be necessary, it must not be forced into action.
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The Thinking Fellows discuss the Apostles, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds. They examine why creeds are a part of the Christian tradition and how they guide the church in confessing the truth of Scripture. They look at some typical rejections of the creeds and assert that every Christian has a Creed, whether they know it or not.
Caleb and Adam Francisco talk about the prominence of apologetics in the early church. Why was the early church under constant assault? How can we learn to declare and defend the Gospel like early church theologians?
The Thinking Fellows are joined by Daniel Emery Price and Erick Sorenson to talk about reading the New Testament. They talk about common objections and fallacies surrounding the New Testament, including why you should read more than just the words of Jesus. How do the books of the New Testament work together, and are they reliable sources of truth?
Caleb, Scott, and Adam are joined by Chad Bird to discuss why you should read the Old Testament. They look at myths and skepticism about the Old Testament and supposed inconsistencies between God in the Old Testament and New Testament. Finally, they talk about how the Old Testament contains the promises of God and is intentionally left incomplete while waiting for Christ.
Caleb is joined by two members of 1517's junior fellowship, John Hoyum and Philip Bartelt, to give a rundown of Lutheran worship. What does Lutheran worship look like, sound like, and accomplish? How does it differ from the patterns and traditions of other Christians? They answer these questions while making a case for understanding the scripture and purpose behind each part of the service.
The Thinking Fellows address the idea that it is good to have children. They try to tackle modern social dilemmas and look and the theological command to be fruitful and multiply. In what ways are children a blessing from God?
The Thinking Fellows talk about confirmation bias. Is there a benefit to regularly engaging with disagreeable ideas? Can information be neutral, or can you be honest about your preferences and alegences?
The Thinking Fellows talk about the importance and relevance of studying history. Dr. Francisco makes a case for why all people should in some way be students of history.
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Dan Deen returns to do one more episode on why you should read and study philosophy. This time Dan moves away from the ancient world and points us to how philosophy changed the world after the Reformation.
Caleb and Scott are joined by Dr. Dan Deen to discuss the relevance of studying philosophy. Why is the love of wisdom essential, and how does it impact your life? They also discuss the limits of philosophy and why theology and philosophy are distinct.
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The Thinking Fellows revisit the distinction between Law and Gospel. They discuss the consequences of confusing God's two words and why each word must be precisely taught and preached.
Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss the idea that everybody has a theology and that it is essential to understand the why and what of your theology. They look at examples of secular religion and the importance of existential storytelling. They also explore the difference between good and bad theologies.
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Caleb and Scott ask Adam questions about Islam. Why should the average person know something about this quickly growing global religion? Do the way Islam and Christianity differ in culture matter?
The Fellows discuss the importance of the Reformation. Not only does the Reformation contain religious significance, but it is an ignition point for the progress of all human history.
The Thinking Fellows revisit the doctrine of sin. They discuss why Christians should not be surprised by cultural immorality. The fellows close by asserting that the Gospel does not require a world of "good people" to survive.
Happy Easter from the Thinking Fellows. This week, Scott, Adam, and Caleb talk about the centrality and reliability of the Ressurection of Jesus Christ. They discuss the need to present the case for the resurrection while preserving the proclamation of the personal forgiveness of sins.
The Thinking Fellows discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of social media. The internet and social media have changed how we distribute and consume information. How can you know which way is up in the rapid and ever-changing wave of information?
The Thinking Fellows explore the reasons why students go to college. They present a case for moderated and thoughtful attendance at universities while advocating that trade schools or direct-to-work paths are better options for many after graduating high school.
The Thinking Fellows make a case for reading old books. Why should you read both pre-modern and ancient works of literature, philosophy, history, and theology? Because reading g and thinking through these works can help inform your decisions and opinions today in a manner that allows you more competently fulfill your vocations and needs in this life.
The Fellows revisit the doctrine of vocation. They explore the idea that God has particular callings for your life that he reveals in the needs and dependencies of your neighbors. They assert that those callings start with the people closest to you, like spouse and children, and work outward.
The Thinking Fellows conclude their reading of The Abolition of Man by C.S. Lewis. This work ends with a brutal prognosis of society and the loss of objective truth. The Fellows note the prophetic realities of Lewis' writing. The episode ends with a hint at the following episode highlighting a Christian response through vocation.
The Fellows discuss chapter two of The Abolition of Man. They critique Lewis' use of Tao while praising his specific criticism of the turn against objective truths. Lewis demonstrates his skill as a philosopher while perhaps stopping short of a uniquely Christian objection to the problems at hand.
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The Fellows respond to comments made by Jordan Peterson on The Joe Rogan Podcast. Peterson asserts the Bible is "beyond the truth " on the Podcast." The Thinking Fellows break down this statement and discuss why Peterson needs to move past the moral precepts and hear the forgiveness of sin.
In this episode, the Thinking Fellows cover the final book in The Chronicles of Narnia. The Last Battle is an eschatological picture of Narnia. Here Lewis is at his most Platonic as he describes the perfection of heaven.
The Magicians Nephew is the first book chronologically in The Chronicles of Narnia. In this work, Lewis creatively envisions the creation of Narnia and the introduction of evil into the world.
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The Horse and His Boy was the fifth book written in the Chronicles of Narnia. The story takes place in the adjacent lands surrounding Narnia when the Pevensie children and their reign over Narnia. Here, Lewis gives a less on-the-nose image of Christian life after conversion.
The Thinking Fellows comment on the fourth book in the Chronicles of Narnia. When they were first published, this was the first book in the series to not feature the Pevensie children. While some consider the Silver Chair strange, it presents a colorful expansion of the world of Narnia.
Scott, Adam, and Caleb discuss The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. Originally the third book in The Chronicles of Narnia, this seafaring journey picks up four years after the events of Prince Caspian. This adventurous story is less on-the-nose theologically but is still assertively Christian in its depiction of Aslan as Christ and other underlying themes.
Scott and Caleb discuss Prince Caspian, the second book authored by C.S. Lewis in the Chronicles of Narnia. They propose that the predominant Christian theme in the book is the truth of the Gospel and having faith in "old things" even as the human race progresses. To this end, Caleb and Scott suggest that Prince Caspian is at heart a charge against modernism.
Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss and comment on the first book in the Chronicles of Narnia. The Fellows outline the basic story of the book while pointing out the Christian themes and literary significance of the work. Merry Christmas.
Caleb, Scott, and Adam introduce the Chronicles of Narnia. The Chronicles of Narnia is a seven-book series by C.S. Lewis. These books are not only highly influential in the genre of fantasy but are deeply and explicitly Christian in their content. This episode is the first of eight that will explore the series.
The Thinking Fellows discuss the life and work of J.R.R. Tolkien. Tolkien's fantasy worlds have helped shape and define the entire fantasy genre of literature as it is read today. As a devout Roman Catholic, Tolkien kept a philosophy of religion central to his use and understanding of literature.
Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss the characters and ideas that made up the Inklings. The Inklings were a group of Christian scholars and writers who gathered in fellowship and furthered their writing. They were friends and colleagues alike, and their gatherings provided a model for encouraging and productive friendships.
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Following the introduction to C.S. Lewis and his conversion, the Thinking Fellows speak to the impact and scope of his written works. The charm of Lewis was his ability to communicate both from highly educated positions and with a tone that allowed for lay readability. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb Keith join Adam Francisco to discuss the life of C.S. Lewis and the docudrama The Most Reluctant Convert, which revolves around Lewis's life and conversion to Christianity. Lewis's conversion is complex but involves friendship and the challenging of presuppositions by those friends. Today, there is an ever-growing need for friendships that evolve past nicety and into the realm of substance and intellectual challenge.
Scott and Caleb get to the end of the Smalcald Articles. Here, Luther takes a stand for the proclamation of the Gospel and the necessity of the Reformation. As Luther faces the possibility of his death, he refuses to shy away from the truth of God's Word.
The following several articles of Smalcald are concerned with the application of the Gospel. Luther emphasizes that the power of the Word is given to the church for proclamation and administration in the Sacraments. God does not work with existing goodness but creates faith and holiness with the Word.
The Thinking Fellows are live from Here We Still Stand Las Vegas with the original cast and special guest Chris Rosebrough. As a pairing with the conference topic the Fellows talk about the role and reliability of assurance in the reformation. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Jim Nestingen and Steve Paulson join Caleb and Scott to discuss the Smalcald Articles. Jim and steve used to lecture on the Confessions together, and Luther Seminary and are together again to comment on repentance and the gospel. Here we see God use the law as a thunderbolt of destruction and the gospel as a word of peace and life to those destroyed by the law.
Caleb and Scott continue to read the Smalcald Articles. This time the articles focus on the abuses of the papacy. Luther then moves into an outline of doctrine, starting with sin and the law.
Caleb and Scott read through the first several articles of the Smalcald Articles. Here we find an affirmation of orthodox trinitarian theology and a biblically backed presentation of justification on account of Christ alone.
Caleb and Scott give a historical overview of the Smalcald articles. Many factors were at play; from Luther's personal health issues to looming political threats.
John Hoyum joins Caleb Keith to answer some listener questions. The first question is about using quotes attributed to Luther that are apocryphal. The final question revolves around how the Biblical canon was formed and why the Lutheran Confessions don't list the books of the Bible.
Caleb and Scott answer two listener questions. The first question is about addressing or using worldviews as a methodology for engaging culture as a Christian. The second question is about the lack of time spent discussing Philip Melanchthon in Lutheran churches.
Caleb and Scott take a break from the Book of Concord to address listener comments and questions. First, they responded to comments about vocation and damnation. Then they close the show with a discussion about mortifying your sin.
On this episode, Caleb and Scott complete their comments on the Augsburg Confession and the Apology. These final articles are not positive statements from the Reformers, but refutations of abusive practices conducted by the Roman Catholic Church.
Caleb Keith is joined by John Hoyum to discuss articles 20 and 21 of the Augsburg Confession and Apology. In these articles the evangelicals make a confession about the nature of good works and condemn the invocation of saints in prayer.
Caleb and Scott discuss free will, the fall into sin, and human reason. Article 18 of the Augsburg Confession outlines how human reason differs from free will. How is it that you can make good rational choices while still bound to sin?
Caleb and Scott talk about article 16 of the Augsburg Confession. This article highlights not only obedience to civil authority but the freedom to participate in civil offices and process. Article 16 provides a vocational outline for living in society.
Scott Keith is joined by Jim Nestingen to discuss church traditions and their uses. Should the church retain old traditions? Is there a point where a specific tradition should be removed?
Scott and Caleb continue to talk about the Augsburg confession and the Apology. This time, they discuss how the church functions with proper rites and ceremonies. Lastly, the Fellows discuss the significance of calling pastors.
The Augsburg Confession is clear; the aim or purpose of repentance is the application of Christ to the sinner. In articles 11 and 12 of the Augsburg Confession and the Apology, the Lutherans took a stand on the declarative forgiveness of sin.
Caleb and Scott discuss article four of the Apology to the Augsburg Confession. Justification is the article upon which the church stands or falls, and everything in the Augsburg Confession flow toward or from this doctrine. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Caleb and Scott read and discuss the first three articles of the Augsburg Confession and the Apology. While Rome did not object to the Lutheran presentation of the doctrine of God, they denied the Lutheran confession on original sin. Scott and Caleb talk about original sin and how it relates to the doctrine of justification.
Scott and Caleb introduce the Augsburg Confession. The Augsburg Confession is one of the most unique documents of the Reformation and stood as a bold confession in a time of crisis. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Caleb and Scott take listener questions about creation and apologetics. Does the idea of evolution threaten our understanding of the Bible? How do we frame this issue in terms of doctrine? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Caleb is joined by Bob Hiller and Rod Rosenbladt to close out Luther’s Large Catechism. This episode focuses on God’s gifts in Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. How is God working through these means?
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Caleb is joined by Dr. Rod Rosenbladt and pastor Bob Hiller to talk about the Lord’s Prayer. Luther explains that the Lord’s Prayer gives Christians the how and why of talking to God. Prayer gives us an opportunity to call upon God to hold fast to his promises and thank Him for all good things.
The Thinking Fellows Podcast celebrates the anniversary of the 1517 Podcast Network with a 30minutes and 40minutes crossover. Scott and Caleb are joined by Dan Price, Erick Sorensen, and Chad Bird to talk about reading the Bible. How did we get the Bible? What is its focus? Are there contradictions? How are confessions compatible with Scripture?
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Philip Bartelt and John Hoyum join Caleb to read and discuss the Third Article of the Apostles' Creed. In his explanation of this article, Luther identifies the Holy Spirit as the "Holy Maker." What follows is an abundantly clear proclamation of sanctification. That is, the Spirit works through the proclamation of the Word to give and maintain faith.
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Kolb / Wengert Book of Concord
Luther’s short sermon on the second article of the Apostles’ Creed is short but significant in its call that Christ and this article be constantly preached throughout the year. Caleb and Scott discuss the length and significance of these comments on the Creed.
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Caleb is joined by John Hoyum and Kelsi Klembara to talk about Luther’s explanation of the first article of the Apostles Creed. The first part of the Creed emphasizes God’s care for his creation. Luther, focuses on how God is not just an ambiguous creator but our Heavenly Father.
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Caleb, Scott, and John wrap up the section on the Ten Commandments in the Large Catechism. What does it mean to covet? What do God’s commands produce?
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Scott, Caleb, and John discuss Luther’s extended commentary on the seventh and eight commandments. Luther takes particular care to give broad vocational examples of theft and false witness.
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Caleb, Scott, and Adam continue their walk through Luther’s Large Catechism. They examine the difference between just use of the sword and murder. They close with Luther’s framing of marriage and chastity in the sixth commandment.
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Scott, Caleb, and Adam are back together talking about the third and the fourth commandments. They briefly explain the first and second tables of the Law, and Adam introduces Luther's concept of three estates.
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Scott, Caleb, and Adam are joined by David Andersen and Ed Killian to talk about David’s book, In Defense of Christian Ritual. David makes the case for Word and Sacrament worship and the construction of worship around proclamation.
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Scott and Caleb look over the first and second commandments and their explanation in Martin Luther's Large Catechism. In his expanded answers, Luther highlights many examples of violations of these commands. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
John Hoyum and Philip Bartelt join Caleb to discuss the preface to Martin Luther's Large Catechism. They talk about the Large Catechism, its context, and audience and why more than pastors and the theologically educated should use it. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb and Scott take some time to answer listener questions. What kinds of Christian themes are present in the writings of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien? How do I help my wife cling to the Gospel alone? What translations are good translations of the Bible? Sit back relax, grab a drink and enjoy the show.
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Caleb, Scott, and Rod go through the Christian Questions and Answers section of the Small Catechism. Written by Martin Luther after the original publication of the Catechism, these questions are intended for those receiving the Lord’s Supper.
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Caleb, Scott, and Rod read and discuss Luther’s daily prayers out of the Small Catechism. This is followed by a walkthrough of the Table of Duties.
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As we continue through the Small Catechism, Luther provides questions and answers about the Lord’s Supper. In a brief and simple format Luther answers the who, what, where, and why of The Sacrament of the Altar. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows talk about Luther’s breakdown and examples of confession in the Small Catechism. The conversation focuses on how confession is meant to be a means of comfort to Christians.
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Scott and Caleb move into the Catechism's explanations of the Means of Grace. Starting with Baptism, Luther follows Scripture to explain how God's Word and promises are delivered to us through ordinary means like water. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott, Caleb, and Rod read and discuss the petitions of the Lord’s Prayer and Luther’s explanations. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb, Scott, and Rod walk through the Apostles Creed and Luther’s explanations. They also highlight the purpose and flow of the Small Catechism.
Scott and Caleb continue to walk through Luther’s Small Catechism. This time covering the 5th-10th commandments. In particular,they focus on how these commands affect your neighbor. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb, Scott, and Rod discuss the the context and introduction to Luther’s Small Catechism. They examine the purpose, audience, and style of the catechism to explain why it remains a faithful tool to this day.
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Caleb and Scott begin the series on the Lutheran Confessions. Scott goes over the outline of the Book of Concord and gives a brief history of why each document was written. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb and Scott host a Christmas episode where they talk about Santa, magic, and Scott’s graying beard. Is Santa a remotely helpful Christmas image? Can the guilt and commercialism be redeemed? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott, Caleb, and Dave Rufner discuss the place and purpose of Church seasons. How do holidays like Christmas and other liturgical points of importance serve the Christian? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows talk about repentance. Joined by Rod Rosenbladt and John Hoyum, we answer the questions, Is repentance a final work? Is there good and lousy repentance?
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On Giving Tuesday 2020 the Thinking Fellows discuss stewardship. This opens up a discussion about the economy of salvation and how giving does not enter Christians into transactional relationships with God. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show. Show Notes:
Caleb, Scott, and Rod are joined by John Hoyum to talk about reaching out to Post-Christians. How do you talk to somebody who has left the faith? Have common objections to Christianity changed? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb answer listener questions. What kind of habits can help children learn the Catechism? Is the deceleration, “all my deeds are sin” a comfort? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Paul Koch to talk about why conversations and attention to fatherhood and friendship is important. The significance is highlighted by the increasing issue of societal loneliness. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Chad Bird to talk about his new book, Unveiling Mercy. This opens up a conversation about the difficulty and importance of translation. Also, a conversation about theophanies brought up because of comments on the MeatEater Podcast and by Mike Heiser.
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Caleb and Scott are joined by Dave Zahl to talk about the religious side of COVID. Zahl is the executive director of Mockingbird Ministries and the author of Seculosity. Zahl defines Seculosity as secular religiosity. On this episode we talk about how secular phenomena open up a new world of works righteousness.
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The Thinking Fellows are live from the 2020 Here We Still Stand Live-Stream. The Fellows talk about the events that unfolded in 1520 including the issue of a Papal Bull against Luther and the writing of The Three Treatises. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes:
As the Lutheran reformers moved toward a confession of faith it was important to identify where that confession would come from and by what authority doctrine could be revealed. Sola Scriptura or Scripture Alone answered these important questions. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes:
Here We Still Stand Livestream
The Fellows talk about good works their necessity and imputation. Can a work be good and sinful? What does it mean that all my goodnesses even good works are a gift from Christ? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Steve Paulson to talk about the Bondage of the Will. The Fellows discuss the timeline and context of changes Luther and the Lutherans made on the issue of the will. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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During the Reformation, the gift of the gospel was often described as a promise. Caleb and Scott sit down with Steve Paulson to talk about what the promise is, and how it is received. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by John Hoyum to talk about the Law. What was the reformations last shift on the Law and how is it relevant today? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by John Hoyum to talk about how Luther and Melanchthon approached the doctrine of sin. Scott talks about how the shift on sin is the starting point for the reformational re-discovery of justification. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Philip Bartelt to talk about what doctrines and events which lead up to the Augsburg Confession. This will be a multi-part series with episodes highlighting each doctrine.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Philip Bartelt to discuss Donatism. Phil highlights the history of this condemned teaching, while Scott and Caleb ask about the ways Donatism might show up today.
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Caleb, Scott, and Rod record a special episode for the Lutheran Study Days conference in Bergen. The question: what is Christian Freedom and does it have any limitations? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb talk about Melanchthon’s approach to education and how it might help parents dealing with kids going back to School during COVID. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb, Scott, and Rod talk about the relationship between theology and literature. Scott also gives Caleb the opportunity to talk about his MA thesis. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb, Scott, and Rod talk about distinguishing sanctification from justification. Rod talks about how the weak on sanctification phrase developed. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts
Scott and Caleb answer a question about studying historical and systematic theology vs. just studying the Bible. The conversation turns toward the context and transmission of the faith from one person to another or one generation to the next.
Show Notes: Support the Show
The Thinking Fellows tackle an epistemological problem and ask if churches are an essential service. This episode was inspired by a New York Times Article titled: Are Protests Unsafe? What Experts Say May Depend on Who’s Protesting What. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Rod, Scott, Adam, and Caleb are back in their regular studio to record a new episode on faith and reason. The conversation focuses in on the modern issue of scientism and how Christians can identify this as a religion. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts
Scott and Caleb are joined by John Hoyum to talk about Thomism and the unification of philosophical and theological systems. The conversation focuses on Luther's critique of the medieval Scholastic method and what it means for doing theology today. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
The regular hosts of the Thinking Fellows are back in the studio after a long time of phone-in episodes. During this episode, they talk about the separation between church and state, Luther’s two kingdoms distinction, and vocation. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by John Hoyum to talk about the theologian's craft. What makes one a theologian? And what considerations should be relevant to the theologian in training? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Junior Fellows are back for a second episode. John Hoyum and Kelsi Klembara join Caleb Keith to discuss the relevance of the theology of the cross and the theology of glory distinction. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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This episode of the Thinking Fellows is hosted by members of 1517’s junior fellowship. Caleb Keith, John Hoyum, and Kelsi Klembara answer a listener's request to do an episode on mortal and Venial sin. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
ShowNotes
Who can you trust? The Thinking Fellows are back around to one of their favorite topics, epistemology. This time, they talk about experts and expertism. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Fellows have a conversation about the struggle of serving your neighbor in the time of coronavirus. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Fellows sit-down and talk about what books they are reading during the quarantine. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott, Caleb, and Adam go through the most recent listener questions. The questions range from a request for further reading in apologetics to a critique of the Thinking Fellows use of Lutheran categories. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb and Scott Keith are Joined by Pastor Paul Koch to talk about the hard choices pastors are making during the Covid-19 shutdowns. Paul talks about his desire to keep the church going while balancing concern for neighbors. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are once again joined by John Hoyum to talk about Scandinavian Lutheranism and Gerhard Forde. The episode ends on a conversation about Forde's objections to the term inerrancy.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by John Hoyum to discuss the life and work of Gerhard Forde. John is a doctoral student and pastor in the Seattle area. The Fellows ask John about Forde’s upbringing and background and then dive into his influential works. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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On Being a Theologian of the Cross
Caleb and Scott Keith answer a handful of listener-submitted questions. The questions range from requirements and prohibitions concerning fasting to finding a better podcasting app. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Bob Hiller to discuss the 1517 project, The Craft of Preaching. The conversation leads toward the importance of preaching and why the preacher should take his vocation seriously. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Donavon Riley to talk about fear. Is there a Christian response to fear? Should Christians be afraid? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb and Scott are joined by Dan Price to talk about the impact and response to the Corona Virus. They look at Martin Luther’s letters on the Plague and talk about vocation and proclamation in these trying times. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by pastor Bob Hiller to talk about his book Christ in the Straw. The book serves as a devotional commentary through James. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows are once again joined by David Andersen. The topic of this episode leans more philosophical and asks the question, are you happy? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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1517.org - Scott on Jordan B. Peterson
The Fellows talk about Islamic apologetic method and common questions from young people. Adam lays out the presuppositional arguments that are common in Islam, while Scott talks about some of the problems facing younger generations. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Fellows take on another round of listener questions. The episode ends with a conversation about how vocation and the service of neighbor works toward apologetics. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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On this episode of the Thinking Fellows, Scott, Adam, and Caleb talk about objections to Christ’s divinity and how they deal with the empty tomb. This follows an interesting comment from twitter which suggests that the presence of a necromancer was just as likely as Christ being divine. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows sit down with David Andersen to talk about his apologetic book Faithless to Fearless. This episode covers some of the contemporary barriers facing Christians today and explores an approach for getting to the heart of the issue. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Drs. Rod Rosenbladt and Scott Keith sit down with Caleb to dive to the heart of why apologetics matters. Ultimately, they teach that apologetics is an endeavor which must be primarily concerned with proclaiming Christ crucified and raised for the forgiveness of sin. The second half of the episode outlines the most common objections to Christianity as a preparation for the next several episodes. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows introduce a new series in apologetics. On this episode, they define what Christian apologetics is as a category of theology and lay the groundwork for how to approach it. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb take a look at listener questions from the month of January. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Dr. Scott Keith and Caleb Keith sit down and talk about Scott’s latest book, titled, Where Two or Three Are Gathered. The book is an edited volume which covers the importance and place of friendship in the Christian life.
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Where Two or Three are Gathered (Amazon)
Where Two or Three are Gathered (1517 shop)
The Thinking Fellows closeout 2019 with a discussion about New Year’s resolutions. The conversation turns to guilt, confession, and forgiveness finally ending with a recap of the books everyone is reading right now.
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The Thinking Fellows talk about Christmas platitudes, comfort at Christmas, and share some personal Christmas stories. Thank you for supporting the show in 2019. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Being Dad: Father as a Picture of God’s Grace
Scott and Caleb are joined by Chad Bird to talk about the Old Testament. Caleb asks the question of how does the Gospel of Christ found and proclaimed in the words of the Old Testament. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows are joined by Dr. Jonathan Mumme to discuss the purpose and practice of Christian worship? How does or should Christian worship distinguish itself from other religious traditions of this world? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Mumme: Church As Fullness In All Things
Scott and Caleb Keith take this time to update listeners of the Thinking Fellows and ask for their support. Caleb also asks Scott what he thinks the most pressing theological issue of our age is and what 1517 is doing to address this problem. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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On this episode the Fellows answer a handful of questions submitted by listeners. Among them is the question, is baptism a good work that earns salvation? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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On this episode, the Fellows have a conversation about historical methodology and why it is important for the practice of theology but also daily life. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows are joined by Delwyn Campbell, who is an LCMS missionary in Gary Indiana. Pastor Campbell talks about how a missionary is called to bring the Gospel to places close or far, where it is not being preached. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
Support the mission efforts of Delwyn Campbell and his Family
The Thinking Fellows sit down with Dave Zahl to talk about his new book. Dave explains the concept of Seculosity and how people create systems of self-justification. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows record a live podcast every year at the Here We Still Stand conference. Per tradition, the Fellows are joined by Drs, Jim Nestingen, and Steve Paulson. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show as the fellows discuss the common faith.
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Have you ever noticed that sometimes you can’t understand what a theologian is trying to say? On the episode, the thinking Fellows talk about meaningless statements, language games, two types of history, and much more. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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In this episode, the Thinking Fellows try to navigate the theological and philosophical problems of secular doomsaying. The topics range from modern indulgences to preaching Law and Gospel to the secular world. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show. Show Notes:
The Thinking Fellows talk about friendship, fatherhood, and masculinity. In particular, this episode is about the struggle and need for friendship in the Christian life. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Where Two or Three Are Gathered
On this episode, the Fellows address a listener’s question about what it means when somebody calls themselves Reformed. The conversation leads to a little bit of history and systematics. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Support the Show
How do you know you are truly repentant? Does your life have to be wrecked by some special sin before you know the Gospel? The Thinking Fellows tackle two questions which are frequently used to cause doubt. These issues end up demonstrating the need for proclaiming the full force of the Law and the fullness of Christ and his Gospel. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows reflect on the benefits of studying philosophy. Scott and Adam discuss how 20 years ago, Rod introduced the two of them to reading and studying philosophy. The consensus of this conversation is that the benefit of philosophy is not formal knowledge but an introduction to critical thinking. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows are joined by friends to have a conversation in a Hotel bar in Bergen Norway. While the show covers many topics, the discussion centers on the importance of friendship and dialogue in the Christian life. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows are joined by Stephen Pietsch for a live recording in Bergen Norway. Scott, Adam, And Rod gave lectures at the Lutheran Study Days conference. We close the conference with a special episode of the show. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
On a rare episode featuring only Caleb Keith and Dr. Adam Francisco, the Thinking Fellows ask the questions: Is Islam a Christian heresy and can apologetics be comforting? At the end of the episode, Dr. Francisco gives an update from the 1517 publishing house. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows ask the question, what is the Bible? This conversation follows an episode on the historic creeds and how they are built from and relate to Christian Scripture. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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As a lead up to Here We Still Stand 2019, the Thinking Fellows discuss the importance and use of creeds and confessions. The historic creeds are brief summations of Scriptural truth. Their use has been to combat heresy by gifting the words of faith and crediting Christ alone for salvation. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Support the Thinking Fellows Here We Still Stand (PNET19)
Lutheran Study Days The Soul of Christianity Know the Creeds
Question and Answer episodes give us a unique opportunity to directly engage with the Thinking Fellows audience. Today’s episode includes questions about Erasmus of Rotterdam, the Lord’s Supper, and Prayer companions. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show. Show Notes: Support the Show Lutheran Study Days Norway
The Essential Erasmus Lutheran Book of Prayer Prayers of the Reformers
Did the Lutheran reformers influence the development of the Church of England? The Thinking Fellows chime in on this recently requested question. The conversation centers around politics, education, and the circulation of Lutheran theology. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show. Show Notes:
Lutheran Study Days Bergen Norway Enthusiasm and the Enthusiasts
On the 489th anniversary of the Augsburg confession, the Fellows ask the question, does the Church still stand or fall on justification? In other words, is justification the central doctrine of faith? The fellows give a resounding yes followed by what the bleak alternatives would be. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Support the Show 1517 Podcasts Lutheran Study Days Bergen Norway
Returning to their topical format, the Thinking Fellows talk about stoic philosophy. The conversation flows from classical stoicism to modern proponents like Jordan Peterson. Finally, the fellows ask the question are stoicism and Christianity compatible? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
HWSS (PNET19)
Neil Robinson the Stoic Bridge to Christianity
The Thinking Fellows finish their six part series on Christianity in America led by Dan van Voorhis. Dan talks about the second half of the 20th century and how it has led to the current cloudy question of where Christianity is headed. Covered in this episode is the rise of evangelicals, religious nones, and the resurgence of high church worship. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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4 Things You Loose when You Leave Christianity
On this episode, Dan van Voorhis leads listeners through origins of fundamentalism and modernism in American Christianity. Dan explains how the battle between these two groups was not just in fighting but was a matter of national news and had social consequences. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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During the show, Dan talked about making outlines from this series available. Editing is not complete on those documents and they will be made available at a later date on the 1517 website.
Dr. Dan van Voorhis is back to walk listeners through another segment of Christian history in America. The fellows discuss the differences between the first and second Great Awakenings as well as the impact of migration westward. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows are once again joined by Dr. Dan van Voorhis to discuss the history of Christianity in America. This time, they cover the context, characters, and development of the first great awakening. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Is America a Christian nation? To help answer that question, Dr. Dan van Voorhis looks at the background and context of the constitution of the United States. The rest of the fellows ask Dan questions and then discuss the difference between toleration and liberality. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Here We Still Stand code:(PNET19)
The Constitution of the United States
Dr. Dan van Voorhis leads a discussion on the history of Christianity in America. This episode focuses on the religious practices of American colonies and their lasting impact. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Here We Still Stand Tickets Code:(PNET19)
As a part of new episodes on apologetic conversations, the Thinking Fellows revisit questions about epistemology. Instead of tackling the topic from a wholly academic standpoint, the show turns to practical examples about how and why it is important to question why you believe something. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Fellows discuss the importance of knowing why you believe. As part of this discussion, the hosts share some stories and explain the personal impact apologetics had on their lives. Sit back, relax, grab, a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The series on the history of the Reformation comes to an end with a recap on the Formula of Concord and the beginnings of the Thirty Years War. Thank you to our listeners for supporting this endeavor, and we look forward to new topics this summer. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Today's episode of the Thinking Fellows focuses on the second generation of Lutheran reformers. This era in Lutheran history represents a struggle for peace and unity of doctrine. The primary fruit of those efforts was a confession named the Formula of Concord. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Between the years 1550 and 1560 the giants of the Reformation are dying. The Fellows discuss the political and theological turmoil that occurred as a result of the Smalcald war. Bookending this episode is the death of Philip Melanchthon and the difference between Reformation catechisms. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
On this episode, the Fellows discuss the events leading up to and the fallout after Luther’s death. This leads us through a discussion on the sermon Melanchthon gives at Luther’s funeral as well as the interims. Sit back relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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By the years 1540 through 1545, the Reformation was in full swing. As a result of the sweeping doctrinal adoption, Luther and Melanchthon were each tasked with problem-solving as more churches and townships became Lutheran. Also during this time period, Calvin moved to Geneva, and Luther wrote a commentary on the Quran. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Power and Primacy of the Pope
The Fellows take a one week break from their series on the history of the Reformation to answer listener questions. The questions range all the way from the doctrine of Zwingli to apologetic responses to evolution. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows cover the major reformational events between 1535 and 1539. During this time a collection of Luther’s works are published, the Smalcald articles are signed, Calvin publishes the institutes and much more. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Coming back from the Diet of Augsburg the Lutheran reformers began responding to the doctrinal backlash of the Confutation. During this time Luther also begins to address the political climate and the looming threat of Turkish invasion. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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In 1530 an imperial diet was called to the city of Augsburg. Among many issues to be addressed was the increasing influence of Lutheran theology. At Augsburg, the Lutherans presented a confession plainly stating the truths of the Christian faith. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Before his death in 1532 Ulrich Zwingli led a more radical reform than those in Wittenberg. Zwingli was not only a theologian, but also a humanist, and a soldier ultimately leading to his death on the battlefield. On this episode, Dr. Francisco gives an overview of Zwingli followed by a discussion amongst the fellows about the debate on the Lord’s Supper. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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On this episode, the Thinking Fellows talk about catechisms and catechetical methodology. During the Reformation, catechisms were a tool for addressing the issue of Christian education. The episode ends on a brief conversation about the means of grace. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The seventh episode of the History of The Reformation brings the Fellows to a challenging time in Lutheran history. During the late 1520s, the first antinomian controversy begins while at the same time the Reformers In Wittenberg are made aware of how lacking Christian knowledge is among both lay and clergy. The solution to these problems arises in Catechesis. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Kolb: The Reformers Define the Church
This episode of the Thinking Fellows opens to the peasants revolt and the radical reform of Thomas Müntzer. To round out the show the Conversation moves to the Bondage of the Will and the begining of Luther’s family life.
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In 1521, the Pope issued an official decree known as bull against Luther. The Bull declared Luther’s writings as heresy and demanded he recant. The Thinking Fellows discuss the severity of excommunication and the freedom Luther found in Scripture. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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On the fourth episode of our series on the history of the Reformation, Dr. Keith walks listeners through the early stages of Melanchthon’s theological development and contributions. This episode introduces Reformation Humanism and closes out with a conversation on the Loci Communes. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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As the Biblical text transforms Luther’s positions on grace and justification, he shifts his writing from disputations to letters targeted at the common man, secular rulers, and the Roman church. These letters are called the Three Treatises. The fellows dive into the context and contents of these letters and discuss their greater significance to the Reformation as a whole. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows continue outlining the events of the Reformation by following Luther’s move from the monastery to the university. This transition involves Luther’s educational pursuits as well as his early disputations. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Fellows begin a new series outlining the history of the Reformation. The first episode features a thorough description of the Middle Ages followed by the initial struggles of Luther. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
Scott and Caleb Keith are joined by their friend Debi Winrich to discuss her new podcast on the Apostles Creed. They talk about the importance of studying the creed and how it provides an accessible outlet for conversation with those outside our traditions. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Shoe Notes:
Caleb and Scott Keith are joined by their friend Kelsi Klembara to discuss atonement. The atoning work of Christ is an essential doctrine of the Christian faith. With that being said, there are still aspects of how the atonement works that are debated. On this episode, we try to navigate the various ways scripture talks about atonement how no matter which picture of the atonement is in view it must remain entirely a work of Christ.
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Christmas Eve, Dr. Keith and Caleb take the opportunity to discuss the significance and balance in celebrating Christmas. They discuss why Christians shouldn't dismiss the idea of gift giving while still maintaining that incarnation of Christ remain central. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Caleb and Scott are joined by their friend Doug Klembara to discuss to the vocation of design. The conversation focuses on the importance of quality when creating and sharing materials related to the Gospel. After reviewing some of the critical changes these ideas have brought to 1517, they talk about how important good style was during the reformation. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Scott and Caleb are joined by Dan Price to discuss why 1517 hosts conferences. They talk about fellowship, sound doctrine, and the benefit of gathering together. Dan also takes time to explain the City Events, which are free one-day conferences hosted churches around the U.S. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Caleb and Scott Keith sit down and answer and a handful of listener questions. Topics include particular sins, where should I go to church, is God Father Loving? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Dr. Dan Deen is on the show to discuss analytic philosophy with the Thinking Fellows. Analytic language helps shape Christian apologetics and is helpful for everyday living. The idea of this episode is to make this complicated philosophical language usable for the average layperson. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Featured Resource: 1517 Academy
The Thinking Fellows talk about the craft and philosophy behind translation. Christians rely on faithful, and accurate translations of the Bible, so it is essential to understand the realities of the texts we have as well as the way in which they are moved into English. The fellows also discuss their personal experiences with translating Reformation texts and the challenges faced when working in ancient languages. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Our Sponsor - Great Commision Design
Scott and Caleb are joined by pastors Bob Hiller and Paul Koch to talk about their new project The Craft of Preaching. The Craft of Preaching is a resource for pastors that focuses on sermon writing and delivery. This unique approach focuses on proclaiming and distinguishing law and gospel while helping pastors work through weekly texts. Sit back relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes:
Our Sponsor:Great Commission Design
Scott and Caleb are joined by Drs. Jim Nestingen and Steve Paulson to discuss confession and absolution. Corporate confession and absolution are an essential part of Lutheran worship. On this episode, we Jim and Steve tell stories about the power or personal absolution and "having ears to hear" another sinners confession. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows are joined by Donavon Riley to talk about how Jesus is present and works through all the Scriptures. Inspired by the episode Scott and Donavon Talk About Everything, the Fellows cover OT prophecy and theophanies. Sit back relax, grab a drink and enjoy the show.
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Reading the Bondage of the Will
Live from Here We Still Stand 2018 the Thinking Fellows recorded a special episode with Jim Nestingen and Steve Paulson. The main topic follows the question, what does the theology of the cross have to offer American Christianity? This discussion is followed by live audience questions. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Theology of the Pain of God
The Thinking Fellows are joined by Dr. John Warwick Montgomery to talk about the apologetic task today. On this episode, they encourage lay listeners to not be intimidated by the apologetic task but rather empowered by it. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Recently, Dr. Keith traveled to an LCMS district conference to talk about fatherhood. While at the conference he gathered pastors Paul Koch, Darrin Sheek, and Edward Killian to talk about why we preach. These four discuss proclaiming the Gospel and how that differs from teaching about the Gospel. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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On this episode, the Fellows focus on apologetic questions brought up from recent episodes and listener questions. Starting by questioning and analyzing possible methods for reaching the post-modern mind, the Fellows then move on to the question, did Luther practice apologetics? Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
Over the summer listeners sent in many important questions. Today the fellows answer questions about assurance and Lutheran history. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Latest Thinking Fellows Episodes
Caleb Keith is once again joined by Drs. Jim Nestingen and John Pless for a special recording in Bergen Norway. The heart of their conversation is the idea that theology is meant to be proclaimed. Jim and John tell great stories on the difference between talking about Christ and actually handing over the goods of Christ death and resurrection for you. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The Thinking Fellows revisit their very first episode on the doctrine of sin. The problem of sin gets to the heart of the Christian faith but is often misunderstood. By focusing on "sins" and not "sinful nature" the need for Christ can become lost or hidden. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
Caleb Keith is joined by Drs. Jim Nestingen and John Pless for a special episode recorded in Bergen Norway. Both Nestingen and Pless have spent years studying and teaching Luther's Small Catechism. On this episode, they discuss what it means to pray the Catechism and receive the benefits of the Word through it. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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The regular hosts are reunited after a summer of teaching and travel. In preparation for the Here We Still Stand Conference the hosts visit some of the theological errors that pushed Luther toward the cross. The Latin phrase facere quod in se est was the backbone of semi-Pelagianism and working out one's salvation. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes
Postmodernism is a popular buzzword and one the most impactful philosophies in the world around us. However, postmodernism is frustrating and often hard to understand. Dr. Keith is joined by Bruce Hilman to discuss the history, and context of postmodern thought and how it affects the Church. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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Milbank -
David Bentley Heart -
Who is Afraid of Postmodernism - Jaimie Smith
Producer Caleb is joined by three guests to talk about their experience at the International Academy of Apologetics. These students of theology come from different backgrounds and talk about how apologetics will value them in their daily lives and vocations. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
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After speaking together at a Christ Hold Fast city event, Dr. Keith invited Bruce Hilman to join him on two episodes of the Thinking Fellows. On this episode, they talk about the background and impact of Augustine of Hippo. Augustine is particularly crucial for Lutherans since his writings helped fuel Luther's reformation. Sit back, relax, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Show Notes:
Gary Wills, 4 Part Series on Augustine