Thinking Fellows

Singing is one of the most recognizable parts of Christian worship. But why do Christians sing hymns? Where did hymns come from? And why should the church continue to sing them? Caleb and Scott Keith are joined by Dr. Steve Mueller from Concordia University Irvine to answer these questions. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, Scott Keith, and Bruce Hillman explore the linguistic challenges faced by individuals transitioning from evangelical backgrounds to Lutheranism. They discuss the distinctions between Christian terms, the role of tradition in defining these terms, and the importance of confessional documents in maintaining doctrinal clarity. The Fellows also touch on cultural and institutional differences between American evangelicals and Lutherans. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

Lord protect us, keep us, bring comfort and assurance to the Kirk family, and send us evermore to proclaim Your death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins. Article at 1517:  Video version

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the hosts engage in a comprehensive discussion about Islam, exploring its theology, the role of Muhammad, the authorship of the Quran, and the differences between Islamic and Christian beliefs. Caleb, Scott, and Bruce take turns asking Adam questions that Christians may or should have about Islam.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the Fellows discuss the Book of Romans, exploring its pivotal role in the Reformation, its didactic nature, and the genius of Paul's argumentation. The episode focuses on how Romans provides comfort and assurance to believers, emphasizing the personal nature of salvation and the continuity of God's promises throughout the text. The conversation underscores the importance of Romans in understanding Christian doctrine and its relevance for contemporary believers. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman

Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, Scott Keith, and Bruce Hillman delve into Martin Luther's, 'The Freedom of a Christian.' They explore the historical context of the Reformation, particularly the year 1520, and discuss the significance of Luther's teachings on justification by faith, the authority of scripture (Sola Scriptura), and the relationship between faith and good works.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network  The Freedom of the Christian 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

This episode is a conversation about the life and influence of Augustine of Hippo. The Fellows cover Augustine's historical context, his theological contributions, particularly regarding original sin and the nature of love, and his lasting impact on both Protestant and Catholic traditions. The Fellows also delve into the relationship between Augustine and Martin Luther, examining how Augustine's ideas shaped the Reformation and continue to influence modern theology, particularly in the understanding of grace. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman

The Thinking Fellows explore the life and significance of Justin Martyr, an early Christian apologist. They focus on the challenges Justin faced, and his example for contemporary apologetics. Justin's work also highlights the distinction between apologetics and polemics, emphasizing defending the Christian faith against external criticisms and internal heresies. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

The Thinking Fellows are joined by Todd Hains to discuss the concept of the Rule of Faith as articulated by Martin Luther. Todd explains the significance of the Ten Commandments, the Apostles' Creed, and the Lord's Prayer in shaping Christian doctrine and practice. The discussion delves into how these elements serve as a catechetical foundation for both preaching and personal faith, emphasizing their role in guiding believers in their interpretation of Scripture and their relationship with God. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

The Thinking Fellows podcast breaks down C.F.W. Walther’s classic work The Proper Distinction Between Law and Gospel. This episode offers a brief introduction to Walther and explores why properly distinguishing between Law and Gospel is a vital task for every Christian preacher. Distinguishing Law and Gospel is one of the most difficult yet essential tasks of the Christian life. Command and promise are not merely theological slogans; they are the means by which God delivers faith and creates saints out of sinners. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hil

Caleb, Scott, and Adam take up the question: was Peter the first pope? They follow this with a conversation about why contemporary Lutherans need not long for the ecclesiology of Rome or the papacy. In the second half of the episode, the Fellows discuss the growing number of pastoral vacancies in the LCMS. They encourage patience and thoughtful reflection as congregations navigate this challenging reality.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, Bruce Hillman, Scott Keith, and I take a look at the difference between the comfort that comes from the gospel and the kind of therapeutic language that's become common in our culture. We talk about how this language has crept into everyday life—including the church—and how it ends up reshaping the way people think about faith, identity, and community. Along the way, we highlight the importance of the gospel as an objective promise, the problems with journey-style language, and the real need for Christian community when people are struggling. At the heart of it, we’re calling for a return to the central message of Christianity: the forgiveness of sins and the church as a place of genuine comfort and consolation. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impo

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, hosts Caleb Keith, Bruce Hillman, and Scott Keith engage in a free-for-all discussion. They explore the differences between the James Bond books and movies, delve into the theological significance of infant baptism, and discuss the historical context of Mao's Great Famine. The conversation also explores the shifting dynamics of young men in the church, the impact of generational changes on women's roles, and the increasing gender disparity in church attendance. The hosts conclude with reflections on societal coveting and the importance of recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser! 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bon

Caleb, Scott, and Adam recorded their annual live show at the Here We Still Stand regional conference in Northwest Arkansas. They cover multiple topics, including concerns about IVF advancements and technology, the Shroud of Turin, and the importance of family.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser! 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco  

The Thinking Fellows discuss their church pet peeves; habits or developments that get under their skin and why. This episode offers a chance to have a little fun as each host vents and explains their perspective. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser! 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

In this episode, the hosts delve into the reliability of the Bible, with a particular focus on the moral content of scripture and its implications for one's faith. They discuss how younger generations perceive the Bible as unreliable due to its moral teachings, particularly in relation to contemporary cultural values. Christianity does have a clear moral vision, but most importantly, it finds its stability in Christ. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Preorder Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hillman assert the trustworthiness of Scripture. They discuss the importance of biblical inerrancy, the implications of textual variants, and the transparency of the Christian tradition in handling manuscript evidence. The conversation underscores the importance of a thoughtful approach to understanding Scripture in the face of contemporary challenges to faith. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Preorder Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the hosts explore the complexities of Lutheran identity, particularly in relation to Catholicism. They discuss the meanings of 'Catholic' in both small and large contexts. What are the historical implications and the ongoing challenges of using the word "catholic?" The fellows discuss the effectiveness and downfalls of ecumenical movements that rally around small c catholic identity and critique how they can overlook core theological differences, particularly regarding the gospel. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Preorder Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Ada

Lutherans started the Protestant Reformation. However, they shy away from the term today. The Thinking Fellows discuss why the term became contentious but why Lutherans must still identify with it. The conversation highlights Lutherans' challenges in identifying themselves within the broader Christian community and the need for more effective engagement with other traditions. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of Lutheran identity and a teaser for the next episode. Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Preorder Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman  

The Fellows continue their conversation about Lutheran identity. This time, they discuss the term "evangelical." Lutherans have used the term to describe themselves since the early Reformation. In recent times, confessional Lutherans have turned away from the term. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss why the word is worth using and qualifying, even though it has come to gain new definitions in Western Christianity.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What’s New from 1517: Preorder Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi More from the hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman