Get your copy of Principles for Good Order at cph.org/goodorder. 

Episode Timestamps

0:00 — Introduction & Welcoming Tim Kurth

2:00 — Why Good Order Matters for Lutheran Organizations

4:00 — Why Good People Struggle in the Boardroom

6:00 — The Sunday School Space Expert: A Lesson in Board Boundaries

7:45 — The Pastor, the Food Pantry, and the Power of a Board

10:00 — The Board as Servant Leader of the Voters

13:00 — Why Policies Need to Be Written Down

14:00 — The Three Lanes: Voters, Board, and Pastor

17:30 — Right-Hand and Left-Hand Kingdom Responsibilities

19:30 — Executive Limitations: Why “Shall Not” Can Be Freeing

22:00 — When Limitations Go Too Far

24:30 — Supporting Pastors Who Feel Ill-Equipped to Lead

29:00 — The Supplement to the Diploma of Vocation as a Monitoring Tool

32:00 — How Principles Based Governance Fits Lutheran Confessions and Polity

34:30 — Confession, Repentance, and Absolution in the Boardroom

39:30 — Hope for the Next Generation of Lutheran Leaders

42:45 — Where to Connect with Tim

44:00 — Closing

About the Guest

Tim Kurth retired from his role as Vice President of Ministry Solutions at the Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) in 2026. Previously, he was a Lutheran school teacher as well as a Director of Christian Education (DCE) for congregations in the Chicago area. Throughout his years of service, Tim helped to start a Lutheran high school and develop international nonprofit ministries. He enjoys participating in short-term missions, which has taken him to a total of six countries. Tim is a father to two and grandfather to three and currently lives in the Indianapolis area.

Resources Mentioned

Principles for Good Order: Creating Organizational Harmony Through Effective Governance by Tim Kurth — cph.org

Tim’s website: principlesbasedgovernance.com

Concordia Publishing House

Bringing you God’s enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation

Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Get Jenna’s new book at cph.org/strong. 

Episode Timestamps

0:00 — Introduction & Welcoming Jenna Londgren

2:00 — Meet Dr. Jenna Londgren: Professor, Therapist, and Mom of Four

4:00 — Why Strong in the Lord Was Designed to Feel Like a Gift

6:00 — The Power of Doing the Study in Community

10:00 — What to Do When You Reach Your Breaking Point

13:00 — Finding the Peace That Surpasses Understanding

15:00 — Building Self-Awareness and Naming Your Needs

17:00 — Guarding Your Heart by Inviting In What's Good

20:00 — Choosing Joy Without Guilt

22:00 — Why We Can't Just Ignore Our Emotions

24:00 — Teaching Kids Emotional Intelligence

27:00 — Letting Loved Ones Sit With Hard Feelings

31:00 — The “I Feel Llama” Icebreaker and Naming Emotions

34:00 — A Caution for Finding Mental Health Resources Online

37:00 — Hope for a Woman in a Dark Season

39:00 — A Journal Prompt to Try This Week

About the Guest

Dr. Jennifer K. Londgren is the coordinator of the alcohol and drug studies program and an associate professor of health science at Minnesota State University. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist, nationally certified counselor, and board-certified telemental health provider with clinical expertise in addiction, anxiety disorders, and women's issues. She presents at local and national levels on self-care, well-being, stress and burnout, and innovative teaching techniques.

Resources Mentioned

Strong in the Lord: A Women's Bible Study on Faith and Mental Health by Jennifer K. Londgren — cph.org

Concordia Publishing House

Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation

Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

1:15 — Andy's Feelings as the Trilogy Comes to a Close

2:00 — Understanding Luther's Oratio, Meditatio, and Tentatio

5:00 — What Sets Ten Treasures of Learning to Pray Apart

7:00 — Why Prayer Is a Treasure

9:00 — The Story of Andy's Grandfather and His Baseball Cards

11:00 — The Treasure of Persistence

14:00 — Solitude and Community as Paired Treasures

17:00 — Forgiveness: A Treasure to Be Hoarded and Shared

19:00 — Why We Can't Forgive Ourselves

22:00 — Andy's Favorite Prayer Guides: Hannah and Hagar

24:00 — How to Pray Using the Collect Format

27:00 — A Prayer Practice to Try This Week

29:00 — Closing

About the Guest
Andrew R. Jones lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he enjoys running, hiking, and adventuring with his wife, Stephanie. He has served the church in a variety of roles and locations, utilizing the gifts of speaking, teaching, and writing. As a curious author and parish pastor, he is known for conveying deep spiritual concepts in ways everyone can understand. You can find his weekly writings on his Substack, Bible Curious.

Resources Mentioned
Ten Treasures of Learning to Pray by Andrew R. Jones — cph.org
Ten Lies Satan Loves to Tell by Andrew R. Jones - cph.org
Ten Questions to Ask Every Time You Read the Bible - cph.org

Concordia Publishing House
Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org
Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation
Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast 

Episode Timestamps

0:00 — Introduction & Welcoming Dr. Andrew Steinmann Back

1:52 — Why We Shouldn't Skip the Old Testament

4:00 — Wrestling with Perplexing Passages in Job

7:00 — Proverbs 8 and Christ's Role in Creation

8:00 — Understanding How Numbers Are Used in the Old Testament

12:00 — Where Is God in Ruth, Esther, and Song of Songs?

17:00 — Coincidence or Providence? God Behind the Scenes in Esther

19:00 — Discovering the Trinity Throughout the Old Testament

23:00 — The Aaronic Benediction and the Three Persons of God

25:00 — Advice for Those Struggling with Difficult Passages

27:00 — The Writing Partnership Behind Wrestling with God

29:00 — Closing

About the Guest

Dr. Andrew Steinmann taught at Concordia University Chicago as a Distinguished Professor of Theology and Hebrew beginning in 2000 until retiring in July of 2023. At Concordia, he taught a wide variety of classes, including Hebrew I and II, Hebrew Readings, Readings in Hebrew, and Introduction to the Old Testament. His research interests are focused on Hebrew, Aramaic languages, apocalyptic literature, wisdom literature, and biblical chronology. Throughout his career, Dr. Steinmann has written over 50 articles and book reviews that have been published in national and international journals. He serves as a regular guest on numerous radio programs. Dr. Steinmann holds the following degrees: PhD, Near Eastern Studies, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; MDiv, Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, Indiana; BSChE, chemical engineering, University of Cincinnati. Dr. Steinmann is married to Rebecca.
 
Resources Mentioned

Wrestling with God: Understanding Difficult Old Testament Passages by Rev. Dr. R. Reed Lessing and Dr. Andrew E. Steinmann — cph.org

Concordia Publishing House: Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation: Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Episode Timestamps

0:12 — Introduction & Welcoming Reed Lessing Back

1:52 — Why We Shouldn't Skip or Soften the Old Testament

4:00 — What Still Perplexes the Scholars: Long Lifespans & the Trinity

5:50 — The Challenge of Distance: Hebrew Language Barriers

8:00 — Understanding Violence in the Old Testament

14:00 — Modern Israel vs. Biblical Israel: A Grievous Confusion

21:00 — The Key Question: Who Is Israel?

22:00 — Why the Church Skips the Psalms of Lament

26:00 — Where Reed Turns for Comfort in Hard Times

28:00 — What Didn't Make the Cut

29:45 — Encouragement for Those Wrestling with Scripture

33:00 — Looking Ahead: The Next Book in the Trilogy

34:00 — Closing

About the Guest

Dr. R. Reed Lessing is the The Edwin F. and Esther L. Laatsch Chair of Old Testament Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota. He also serves as the University’s Director for the Center of Biblical Studies and oversees the University’s Pre-Seminary Program. Previously he was Senior Pastor at Saint Michael Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and before that, Professor of Exegetical Theology and Director of the Graduate School at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and received the B.A. in pre-seminary studies from St. John’s College, Winfield, Kansas, in 1981. He earned his M.Div. (1985), S.T.M. (1989), and Ph.D. (2001) degrees from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was ordained into the office of the holy ministry on June 29, 1986. From 1986 to 1999, he served pastorates in West Monroe, Louisiana, and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Resources Mentioned

Wrestling with God: Understanding Difficult Old Testament Passages by Rev. Dr. R. Reed Lessing and Dr. Andrew E. Steinmann — cph.org

Concordia Publishing House

Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation

Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Episode Timestamps

0:12 — Introduction

1:52 — Dr. Payton’s Ministry Context: Pastoring in a Progressive Community

3:15 — How a Weekly Newsletter Became a Book

4:30 — A “What and Why” Book, Not a How-To

5:15 — Citizens of Heaven: Nationalism, Patriotism & Ultimate Allegiance

7:15 — Intercessory Prayer as the Christian’s Most Powerful Cultural Tool

10:30 — Prayer as a Priestly Act: Finding Peace Amid Cultural Chaos

11:32 — The Three Systemic Evils: Idolatry, Sexual Perversion & Greed

15:00 — Personal and Communal Repentance in a Fragmented Society

16:16 — Looking Ahead: A Less Anxious, More Prayerful Church

17:26 — Closing: The Battle Is Already Won

About the Guest

After spending many years as a church musician, Rev. Dr. Payton attended Concordia Theological Seminary and entered the ministry. He now serves at St. John Lutheran Church in Forest Park, Illinois. He has been happily married to Lori, his childhood sweetheart, since 1979, and they have four children and nine grandchildren. He likes to garden and to share that passion in their congregation’s community garden.
 
Resources Mentioned

Prayerful Living in a Post-Christian Culture by Rev. Dr. Leonard Payton — cph.org

Concordia Publishing House: Bringing you God’s enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation: Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Episode Timestamps

0:49 — Introduction

1:42 — Each Gospel Writer's Unique Voice

5:11 — Luke's "Today" — A Different Theology of Salvation

7:25 — Luke's Unique Motifs: Food, Women & Possessions

9:58 — Reading Luke in His First-Century Context

13:36 — The Rich Man and Lazarus: Wealth & the Possessions Motif

16:23 — Dr. Das's Favorite Lucan Passages

17:52 — How to Use This Book: Pastors & Lay Readers

20:05 — The Art of Good Biblical Interpretation

23:02 — What's Next: A Preview of Mark's Gospel

25:08 — Closing & Where to Find the Book

About the Guest

Dr. A. Andrew Das is the Niebuhr Distinguished Chair and professor of religious studies at Elmhurst University. He has authored several books with leading publishers in biblical studies, including Paul and the Stories of Israel (Fortress, 2016); Galatians, Concordia Commentary (CPH, 2014); Solving the Romans Debate (Fortress, 2007); Paul and the Jews (Hendrickson, 2001); and Paul, the Law, and the Covenant (Hendrickson, 2001). Dr. Das is also researching key women and their leadership in the Pauline communities and writings. Dr. Das received graduate degrees from Yale University and Union Theological Seminary in Virginia. He also did doctoral work at Duke University. He teaches in biblical studies, early Christianity, and Second Temple Judaism.
 

Resources Mentioned

Dinner with the Doctor: Luke’s Gospel for the Hungry by Dr. A. Andrew Das — cph.org

Concordia Publishing House: Bringing you God’s enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation: Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Episode Timestamps

1:51 — Introduction — Welcome & book overview

2:30 — The quest begins — a seminary student’s question that launched a lifetime of research

5:00 — Map and compass — the Lewis & Clark framework for navigating family discipleship

8:00 — The compass of new creational wisdom — God’s design, sin, and grace working together

11:30 — Defining family discipleship — the partnership of home and congregation

14:00 — Starting with common ground — the bold claim that all parents want the best for their children

17:30 — Secular liturgies — how culture forms children’s hearts away from Christ

21:30 — Parents as the primary faith-formers — why God has creationally positioned them for this work

24:30 — The Flathead Lake aha moment — Luther’s catechism as a daily family prayer book

29:00 — The congregational paradigm shift — from church-centered to a home-and-congregation partnership

33:30 — Seven things for the congregation, seven for the home — the map in practice

37:30 — Tools in the book — the family audit, family mission statement, and bibliography

41:30 — All kinds of families — how this approach serves non-traditional and single-parent households

44:00 — Closing encouragement — there is always more grace in Christ

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. W. Mart Thompson is associate professor of practical theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. He presents at workshops and conferences on the vocation of raising children in the faith and is the project manager for the Family Discipleship Initiative at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, in partnership with the Concordia Center for the Family. Prior to being called to the seminary, he served as a campus pastor, sole pastor, and senior pastor. Mart, and his wife, Cheryl, are blessed with three children who are married and have children of their own, in whose homes the legacy of family discipleship continues.

Resources Mentioned

Family Discipleship with Christ by Rev. Dr. W. Mart Thompson — cph.org

Dr. Thompson’s blog post on family discipleship (a dialogue between a professor and a seminary student, forthcoming) — concordiatheology.org

Concordia Publishing House: Bringing you God’s enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation: Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Episode Timestamps

1:51 — Introduction — Welcome & book overview

2:00 — The spiritual posture of looking: how the Nicene Creed sparked the idea for the book

5:00 — Expressive individualism: what it is and how it shapes both culture and the church

9:30 — Pastoral approach: helping people find their identity in Christ rather than in self-expression

12:30 — Two realms and two kinds of righteousness: the Lutheran theological foundation of the book

16:00 — Looking up — faith, worship, and lifting our eyes to Christ in the divine service

20:30 — Looking out — love within the Christian community and why it has a special priority

27:00 — Looking inward rightly — self-examination, mortification, and avoiding the downward spiral

32:00 — Looking forward — the resurrection hope and living with one eye on the horizon

35:30 — How Pastor Pfeiffer hopes readers and congregations will use the book

About the Guest

Rev. Joshua Pfeiffer is pastor of the Tarrington Lutheran Parish in the southeastern state of Victoria in Australia, where he lives with his wife, Kimberley, and their four children. He served various congregations in Australia before moving to the United States for graduate studies. He hosts a YouTube channel and enjoys mountain biking, hiking, golf, and other outdoor activities.
 
Resources Mentioned

Lift Your Eyes: How to Live Outside Yourself by Rev. Joshua Pfeiffer — cph.org

Concordia Publishing House

Bringing you God’s enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub\

LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Episode Timestamps

1:51 — Introduction — Welcome & book overview

2:00 — Guilt vs. shame: the key differences — behavior vs. identity, actions vs. wounds

9:00 — What caused Dr. Kleinig to start thinking about shame?

13:50 — Dr. Kleinig’s story: his Wendish ethnic minority background and experiences of discrimination

25:30 — How Jesus frees us from shame: Holy Communion, the blood of Christ, and John the Baptist’s words

29:00 — Jesus as the Lamb of God who bears and carries the sin of the world

33:00 — The divine service as the ongoing remedy for shame; blessing vs. absolution

34:10 — Encouragement for listeners struggling with shame — and how to use the book

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. John Kleinig is professor emeritus at Luther College, Adelaide, SA, Australia. He received his M.A. and Ph.D. from Cambridge University, Doctor of Divinity from Fort Wayne (1998) and Concordia University, Irvine (2014). He is the author of numerous articles and books. Dr. Kleinig and his wife, Claire, have four children and many grandchildren.
 
 Resources Mentioned

From Shame to Glory: God’s Surprising Remedy for Injustice and Failure by Rev. Dr. John Kleinig — 

cph.org

Concordia Publishing House

Bringing you God’s enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long-term funding to support ministries: 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Episode Timestamps

1:51 — Why talk about Paul Gerhardt? Previous episodes & the 350th anniversary

5:21 — Overview of Gerhardt's 17 hymns in Lutheran Service Book (grab your hymnal!)

10:44 — Paul Gerhardt's biography: Early life, the Thirty Years' War & Wittenberg

14:42 — "A Lamb Goes Uncomplaining Forth" (LSB 438) — hymn as drama

25:28 — "Entrust Your Days and Burdens" (LSB 754) — comfort, acrostic structure & Psalm 37:5

37:04 — Mittenwalde, the altarpiece & the origin of "O Sacred Head Now Wounded"

44:53 — "Rejoice My Heart, Be Glad and Sing" & closing reflections

46:43 — New CPH release: Gerhardt Hymns for SAB Choir by Kevin Hildebrand 

Preview the new collection of hymns at cph.org/paul-gerhardt-hymns-for-sab-choir.

About the Guest

Peter C. Reske is senior editor of music/worship at Concordia Publishing House, where he has served since 2004. He holds degrees in English literature from Marquette University and in musicology from The Pennsylvania State University. In addition to his ongoing role overseeing music publications for CPH, he was the editor of Lutheran Service Book (2006) and its attendant resources, editor of The Hymns of Martin Luther (2016), and editorial advisor for One and All Rejoice (2020). With Joseph Herl and Jon D. Vieker, he was co-editor of Lutheran Service Book: Companion to the Hymns (2019).

 Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries: 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast      

Dr. Gene Edward Veith, Jr. joins us to discuss a new translation from Concordia Publishing House — The History of the Gymnasium and Educational Institutions of Wittenberg, written in 1830 by Franz Spitzner. The Wittenberg Latin School was one of the first distinctly Lutheran classical schools, born out of the Reformation. Dr. Veith wrote the preface to this volume, and today he helps us understand not only the school's fascinating history, but why it's essential reading for anyone who cares about classical Christian education in our own time.

0:00 — Introduction & Welcome to the Concordia Publishing House Podcast. Sponsored by the LCMS Foundation.

1:42 The History of the Old Latin School, as told in the History of the Gymnasium and Educational Institutions of Wittenberg, written in 1830 by Franz Spitzner.

2:42 —Dr. Veith sets the scene: how Luther and Melanchthon built the first classical Lutheran school in Wittenberg — bringing literacy and education to ordinary people for the first time.

8:08 — Why Classical Education Matters Today. The philosophical crisis driving today's educational decline: postmodernism's rejection of objective truth, and how classical Christian education offers a grounded alternative.

11:06 — Education for All: Luther's Vision Luther's radical idea that every child deserved a full "liberal" education. A baptized child of God is worthy of the best.

15:35 — Vocation, Freedom, and Social Mobility. How education enabled social mobility and the development of vocation — not just as a job, but as service to God and neighbor in every area of life.

17:25 — The Prussian Reforms and the Decline of Classical Education. How Frederick William III's authoritarian reforms dismantled classical Christian education, invented the modern research university, and set education on a path away from truth.

24:50 — Why Parents Must Be Invested in Their Children's Education. Preparing children not just for work, but for citizenship, faith, and the next generation. Why parents — not schools alone — are the key to passing on what is precious.

Learn more about The History of the Gymnasium and Educational Institutions of Wittenberg.

About the Guest

Gene Edward Veith Jr. is a retired English professor and college administrator, most recently at Patrick Henry College and Concordia University Wisconsin. He is the author of twenty-seven books, including Embracing Your Lutheran Identity, Authentic Christianity: How Lutheran Theology Speaks to a Postmodern World; Christianity in an Age of Terrorism, and God at Work. He has a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas and currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, Jackquelyn. He has three grown children and twelve grandchildren.

Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries:
👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

About the Guest

Dr. Erkki Koskenniemi is a Finnish theologian, pastor, and educator with 40 years of teaching experience in classical studies and theology. Author of Love, Marriage and Family: Learning from the Early Christians.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Why modern Western culture increasingly resembles ancient Rome and Greece
• What early Christians inherited from Jewish family ethics
• How infanticide and child exposure shaped ancient family life
• What set Christian marriage and sexual ethics apart in the Roman Empire
• Why clear teaching and strong Christian community are essential today
• How Christian parents can help young people navigate secular culture
• What gives Dr. Koskenniemi hope for the Church today

Resources Mentioned

• Love, Marriage and Family: Learning from the Early Christians by Dr. Erkki Koskenniemi

Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social media: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries:
👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

 Listen & Subscribe
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Concordia Publishing House Podcast and leave a review—it helps others discover the show!

In This Episode:

3:17 - Dr. Golden's Background
How Dr. Golden became fascinated with the Book of Hosea

7:57 - Historical Context
The eighth-century BC setting and Israel's spiritual decline

15:01 - Marriage to Gomer
Understanding Hosea's shocking call to marry an adulterous woman

23:52 - The Children's Names
Jezreel, Lo-Ruhamah, and Lo-Ammi—names that speak judgment and grace

31:18 - Lessons for Marriage
Practical applications for reconciliation in Christian relationships

35:13 - Preaching Like Hosea
How pastors can learn from Hosea's use of law, gospel, and metaphor

37:44 - Using the Commentary
Advice for pastors, students, and laypeople on getting the most from the Hosea commentary

Learn more about Hosea—Concordia Commentary

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. Kevin S. Golden is director of resident field education, associate professor of exegetical theology, and dean of theological research and publication at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO. 

Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries:
👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Together they explore what makes Lutheran schools so special—from their Christ‑centered mission to the deep relationships they build between students, families, congregations, and communities. As National Lutheran Schools Week unfolds, Lois shares stories from the classroom, powerful examples of school–church partnership, creative celebration ideas, and inspiring glimpses into the daily joy found in our Lutheran schools.

Topics Covered

• What Makes Lutheran Schools Unique

• Celebrating Lutheran Schools Week

• Service as Joy

• Lois’s Journey Through Lutheran Education

• Celebrating School & Church Together

• Building Strong School–Family Relationships

• Simple Ways Any School Can Celebrate

• Signs of a Joy‑Filled School

Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org

Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub

LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries:
👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

Get the book at cph.org/finallyfree.

Show Notes

In the parable of the prodigal son, Jesus tells a story most of us know by heart. Yet beneath its familiarity, He exposes three kinds of bondage that touch every human heart: the pull to do whatever we want, the fear that we’ve sinned too much to be welcomed back, and the quiet pride that trusts in our own goodness. In this episode, author Bryan Wolfmueller talks about his book Finally Free: Three Lessons in the Parable of the Prodigal Son and explores how Jesus uses this beloved parable to reveal our slavery to sin and, more importantly, the freedom He gives through His suffering, death, and resurrection. 

Questions

• The parable of the prodigal son is one of the most familiar stories in Scripture. What made you willing to take the risk of writing an entire book on such a well-known text? 
• In Luke 15, Jesus tells three lost-and-found parables in a row. How does the presence of the older brother change the pattern of “lost, found, joy” in the third parable?
• You argue that the older brother is not a side character but the entire point of the parable. Why do we so often overlook him, and what do we miss when we do?
• The first slavery you discuss is “Belly Slaves” What is this and how does the younger son illustrate it? Why is this slavery so appealing? How does the younger son illustrate our enslavement to pleasure, desire, and self-rule—and why is that slavery so appealing?
• What happens when an entire culture succumbs to belly slavery?
• You say despair, the second slavery, is a theological slavery. Tell us about this.
• You write that the third slavery, pride, is a two-fold slavery. What do you mean by this?
• You write that each of us has “a little Pharisee living in our hearts.” What are some subtle ways this Pharisee shows up in our church life and personal faith?

About the Guest

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller is the pastor at St. Paul and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Churches in Austin, TX.  Prior to that he was the pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Aurora, CO since 2005. He is the co-host of Table Talk Radio, the world’s most famous Lutheran theological game show. Bryan has a new hobby every day, but he always comes back to reading about Law and Gospel. Bryan lives in Round Rock, TX with his wife Keri and four children.

Get a copy of the Bible journal at cph.org/everydayword.

Show Notes

Listen to the episode to hear from author Todd A. Biermann as he discusses his new Bible journal from CPH, Everyday Word: A Two-Year Bible Journal. He describes how this journal came to life, what makes this Bible journal unique, how a family or small group may use the journal together, advice he’d give to those who want to start regularly reading the Bible, and more. 

Questions

• You’ve described Everyday Word as “the fruit of a journey” that began during one of the most challenging seasons of your ministry. Can you share more about that moment and how this journal came to life?
• What personal spiritual lessons did you learn as you developed and used this two-year plan yourself?
• How would you describe what makes this Bible journal unique compared to other reading plans or devotionals?
• Why do you think it’s important to read Scripture daily—but not necessarily to rush through it in a year?
• Each weekly unit includes six components—Historical Context, Law and Gospel Themes, Life Application Starters, Prayer Starters, Memory Verses, and Daily Readings and Notes. How do these pieces work together to deepen someone’s engagement with God’s Word?
• What might it look like in practice for a family or small group to use Everyday Word together?
• How can pastors or church leaders use Everyday Word to help members stay connected to Scripture throughout the week?
• For someone who feels intimidated by the idea of reading the whole Bible, how does this resource make that goal more achievable—and more joyful?
• You suggest that people return to the journal again and again over the years. What new discoveries might readers expect to find each time they start over?
• How might Everyday Word become a spiritual legacy—a record of faith that can be passed down through generations?
• What impact do you hope this journal will have on the broader Church and on individuals’ confidence in God’s Word?
• What encouragement would you give to someone who wants to start reading the Bible regularly but struggles to stay consistent?
• What’s one step listeners can take today to begin—or renew—their own journey in Scripture?

About the Guest

 Todd A. Biermann, after having served as a parish pastor in Minnesota, Ohio and Michigan for 34 years, is now fulfilling the Call as Executive Director of Concordia Center for the Family, a Recognized Service Organization of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska, a Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He resides in Republic, Missouri, with his beloved bride, Heather, who shares his passion for building up marriages and families in God’s way.

Order your church’s Advent materials at cph.org/advent.

Show Notes

We do so much to prepare for Christmas. One way we prepare is by decorating our homes, yards, and churches with evergreens, lights, the crèche, and presents. This season, reflect upon these common Christmas decorations and how they help us see Christ and prepare for His coming with this Advent and Christmas series.

Dr. David J. Peter discusses Every Heart Prepare, the all-inclusive Advent preaching and worship series that features sermons and sermon notes, Bible studies, children’s messages, a children’s Christmas service, and more. He talks about what first inspired him to write about common Christmas decorations and how they relate to Advent, advice he would give pastors for using these materials in their congregations, and what part of this series was most meaningful to him.

Dr. Peter is also the author of Organizing for Ministry and Mission: Options for Church Structure (CPH, 2023). 

Questions

• What first inspired you to connect common Christmas decorations with themes of Advent preparation?
• Why should pastors use this series for their congregation?
• What advice would you give pastors on adapting or customizing these materials for their specific congregational setting?
• The evergreen tree has long symbolized eternal life. How does your sermon connect that symbol to Christ’s coming?
• Light is such a powerful biblical image. How does the “Lights” sermon draw people into the message of Jesus as the Light of the World?
• The crèche—often a quiet, simple decoration—has deep theological meaning. How do you help congregations rediscover its significance?
• On Christmas, the focus turns to wrapped presents. How do you use the imagery of gifts to reveal the meaning of God’s greatest gift, Jesus Christ?
• What part of this series was most meaningful for you personally, and why?

About the Guest

Dr. David J. Peter has served as a professor of practical theology and the dean of faculty at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, where he has regularly led courses for practicing pastors. His areas of expertise include pastoral ministry and researching congregational dynamics. Dr. Peter has also gained many insights from students about the realities of administration and leadership in congregations throughout his years of preaching and instructing. Before joining the Seminary, Dr. Peter served as a visiting instructor of theology at Concordia University in Nebraska, Seward from 1987 to 1988. He also served as associate pastor at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Peoria, Illinois, from 1988 to 1995 and then as senior pastor from 1995 to 1998. Dr. Peter received his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from Concordia Seminary, his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln., and a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois.

Get the book today at cph.org.

Show Notes

In-between times. You’ve likely been here too. Waiting for a new job to start. Transitioning from engaged to married. Packing up your belongings but unable to move into that new house yet. The Book of Numbers is also about the in-between times and, most importantly, how to survive during them.

Listen to the episode now as author R. Reed Lessing discusses how his newest book helps you tackle the Book of Numbers with helpful maps, diagrams, and connections to the rest of the Bible. Reed also talks about why studying the Book of Numbers is valuable, who the Levites were and what we can learn from them today, why the ark of the covenant is important, what lessons we can take away from Numbers, and more. 

Questions

• Why is a study of Numbers worth the journey?
• Who are the Levites? What should we know about their role? What can our pastors today learn from them?
• How does Numbers equip us for the in-between times?
• What’s the danger of not learning how to embrace the in-between times?
• We hear the Aaronic benediction in worship—give us a closer look at this blessing. Does it have a trinitarian framework?
• What is “Vitamin F” and why do we need it?
• Why is the ark of the covenant important?
• What can we learn from what you call “the worst day of Moses’ life”?

About the Guest

Dr. R. Reed Lessing is The Edwin F. and Esther L. Laatsch Chair of Old Testament Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota. He also serves as the University’s Director for the Center of Biblical Studies and oversees the University’s Pre-Seminary Program. Previously, he was Senior Pastor at Saint Michael Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and before that, Professor of Exegetical Theology and Director of the Graduate School at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and received a B.A. in pre-seminary studies from St. John’s College, Winfield, Kansas, in 1981. He earned his M.Div. (1985), S.T.M. (1989), and Ph.D. (2001) degrees from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was ordained into the office of the holy ministry on June 29, 1986. From 1986 to 1999, he served pastorates in West Monroe, Louisiana, and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Get the new book at cph.org.

Show Notes

Thirteen composers. Thirteen biographies of foundational Lutheran musicians. 

Envisioned by Walter Buszin, Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847–1947 is a groundbreaking collection of biographies and historical records of important church figures, places, and instruments that carried the foundation of Lutheran church music. During the episode, author Benjamin Kolodziej discusses the robust history of the people, places, and instruments noted in the book, where the idea for this collection of portraits came from, advice he would give to aspiring church musicians, and more. 

About the Guest

Benjamin Kolodziej holds an undergraduate degree in organ performance as well as graduate degrees in sacred music and theology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. His primary organ studies have been with Robert Anderson, Larry Palmer, Richard DeLong, George Baker, and Jon Gillock. He has performed solo organ concerts in Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Italy and throughout the UK. A frequent performer for concerts and hymn festivals in the USA, his venues have included St. Patrick’s Cathedral and St. Thomas Church in New York City, Washington National Cathedral, and St. Philip’s Cathedral in Atlanta. He is a frequent writer on topics of organ and church music for national publications, including The American Organist. Kolodziej is organist and choirmaster at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Dallas, Texas, and is also organist at Perkins Chapel at Southern Methodist University, where he plays for one hundred weddings a year. As a hobby, he collects antiquarian hymnals and theological literature. He is a member of Faith Lutheran Church (LCMS) in Plano, Texas.

Get the book now on cph.org!

Show Notes
How often do you think about the contents of upcoming weekly worship services and how they interconnect thematically? However rare or frequent this is, there is something to be learned, and certainly something to look forward to. 

Listen to the episode to hear how this resource from CPH based on Carl Fickenscher II’s fan-favorite radio show walks through the propers of each week of the three-year-lectionary (the Introit, Gradual, Collect, and so on), helping you prepare for worship and better understand its interconnected pieces. Carl also talks about how the lectionary is a valuable tool for the church, what he hopes readers learn to look forward to during Sunday morning worship, what church leaders can take from this book to help their members be more excited about Sunday morning worship, and more. 

Questions

• Why is the lectionary a valuable tool for the church?
• How might pastors use this book differently from laypersons?
• What are the things about Sunday morning you hope your readers look forward to--besides the coffee, doughnuts, and baked goods?
• How can Sunday morning make a bigger impact on the other hours of our week?
• Is there anything pastors and other church leaders can take from this book to help their members be more excited about Sunday mornings?

About the Guest
Rev. Dr. Carl Fickenscher is a professor of pastoral ministry and missions at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, teaching primarily the area of homiletics. He and his wife, Claire, are parents of Rachel, Daniel, and Gabriel, and very proud grandparents.

During the episode, Pastor Winterstein talks about why the Nicene Creed was written, how it’s important to Christians in today’s world, how the Nicene Creed guides our Bible reading, and more.

Questions

• How did you come to be interested in the Nicene Creed and the historical context out of which it arose?
• Why is it important for Christians today to know how and why the Creed arose?
• Which phrase or phrases from the Nicene Creed are most significant in your mind?
• What are some ways the Nicene Creed addresses false teachings that have cropped up in the Christian Church in our day?
• How can the Nicene Creed help guide our Bible reading, study, and devotional life?

About the Guest
Timothy Winterstein is the pastor of University Lutheran Church on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. He is married to Tennille, and they have four children: Lucia, Jonas, Salem, and Cyrus. He is pursuing a PhD in Theology and Culture at Concordia Seminary, St Louis. With his brother, Jay, he hosts a film and theology podcast at saintsandcinema.com. 

Get a copy of the book at cph.org/everlasting.

Show Notes

Anxious. Worthy. Ashamed. Nostalgic. Lonely. Secure. This is just a handful of emotions we observe in the Psalms—and in our day-to-day lives, too. In her newest women’s Bible study, beloved author Christina Hergenrader guides readers through 25 psalms, digging into their genres, perplex emotions, glimpses of Jesus, and more. 

During the episode, Christina discusses what led her to explore emotions and the Psalms, what it’s like sharing personal stories in the book, why Christians struggle to believe that our emotions matter to God, how she envisions readers will use Everlasting, and more.

 Questions

• What led you to explore emotions and the psalms in Everlasting?
• You talk about reading the psalms with new eyes at this stage of life. What shifted for you?
• How did your experience with the Executive Coaching Program at the Townsend Institute influence your approach to this study?
• You share personal stories throughout Everlasting. Is it hard for you to be vulnerable when sharing these?
• What do the Psalms teach us about the relationship between faith and emotional honesty?
• How would you encourage someone who is afraid to be emotionally vulnerable with God?
• Was there a particular psalm that surprised you as you studied it?
• Why do you think that many Christians struggle to believe that our emotions matter to God?
• Talk about the Psalms of lament and exhaustion.
• If someone is feeling disconnected from their faith, what would you say to them?
• Why are Messianic Psalms important?
• What is the danger of leaving nostalgia unchecked?
• Why was it important for you to encourage readers to write their own psalms? How do you suggest they approach this?
• How do you envision readers using Everlasting?

About the Guest
Christina Hergenrader is busy doing what she loves. As a wife, mother, Christian teacher, and writer, she finds that life continues to keep her on her toes. After growing up in Galveston Island, Texas, Christina moved to Nebraska and attended Concordia University Nebraska, where she pursued her passion: education. With a teaching degree in hand, she moved to Houston, Texas, with her husband, Mike, to start her first job. At the end of the year, Christina was named “Teacher of the Year” by Houston’s Lutheran School Association. She also received the “Young Alumnus of the Year” award from her alma mater, Concordia-Seward. Later, Christina earned a master’s degree in Creative Writing. She also began writing and sharing devotions with her classes. Encouraged by their feedback, Christina submitted a manuscript to Concordia Publishing House. Since then, she has written several books, Bible studies and articles that have been published by CPH. When she’s not writing, Christina loves spending time with her husband and four children, teaching, speaking to women’s groups, traveling, photography, and spending time in prayer.

Get Hagan’s new book at cph.org/hagan.

 Show Notes

Our world is constantly shifting, changing, and moving away from Christianity. This post-Christian culture feels bleak and full of hopelessness for the next generation and the future of our congregations. Yet, the current generations are not the first to have faced this struggle.

In his new book, Rev. Dr. R. Lee Hagan brings readers 12 different stories and reflections that address the hopelessness and struggle in today’s churches. The book is perfect for church leaders to find spiritual encouragement and strengthen the faith in their own congregations. Hagan discusses the ins and outs of writing the book with host Elizabeth Pittman, as well as how church leaders should respond to the despair felt for the future of the church, how leadership is centered in discipleship, what it means to be bold as a church leader today, and more.

Questions

• What inspired you to write Faithful, Hopeful, and Bold? Why is it important for us today?
• The book opens by acknowledging the despair many Christians feel about the future of the church. What do you think are the root causes of that despair, and how should church leaders respond?
• In the reflection “Small Church, Big Savior,” you highlight the strength that comes from Christ to even the smallest congregations. What encouragement would you give to pastors or leaders of small churches?
• You mention that even in the closing of congregations, God’s Word has not failed. Can you share a story or moment that illustrates that truth?
• In “Living as Exiles,” you compare our current culture to the exile experience in Scripture. How can congregations faithfully live as exiles without retreating or becoming combative?
• You write that “leaders are followers first.” In a culture obsessed with leadership, how can the church cultivate a different vision of leadership grounded in discipleship?
• What does it mean to be “bold” as a church leader today—and how does boldness differ from brashness or arrogance?
• You discuss grief over the past in “For Such a Time as This.” How can churches move from nostalgia to opportunity without losing their history or identity?
• How do you define success in ministry today, especially when metrics like attendance or offerings may be declining?
• You describe hope as a “gift of God” and “antidote to despair.” What practices can help church leaders personally stay rooted in that hope?
• Your final chapter is titled Quo Vademus? or “Where do we go from here?” If a church leader finishes your book and asks that very question—what’s one step you hope they take next?
• How do you envision this book being used in congregational settings or among pastors?
• What’s your prayer for the Church today as we seek to be faithful, hopeful, and bold in Christ?

About the Guest
Rev. Dr. R. Lee Hagan serves as president of the Missouri District-LCMS and as chairman of the LCMS Council of Presidents. He is a 1992 graduate of Concordia College (now University), Seward, Nebraska. He graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis with a Master of Divinity in 1996 and Doctor of Ministry in 2011.

Get the book on cph.org now. 

Show Notes

For Martin Luther, pure doctrine was not just the content of Scripture but also that content conveyed faithfully into the lives of those who hear God’s Word.

In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, Dr. Robert Kolb joins host Elizabeth Pittman to talk about the second edition of The Christian Faith, A Lutheran Exposition. He discusses his personal faith journey and ministry, why doctrinal theology is necessary, how Law and Gospel are central to Lutheranism, cultural and theological challenges facing Christians today, and more. 

 Questions

• Could you tell us about your faith journey? How did you come to enter the ministry?
• What is your reaction to the election of Robert Francis Prevost as Pope? 
• What was the motivation for revising The Christian Faith after three decades, and what new challenges in the church or society prompted this second edition?
• You begin the book with the resurrection of Jesus. Why is the empty tomb the starting point for Christian theology?
• Why is doctrinal theology necessary in every generation?
• Why is it significant that this is a Lutheran exposition of the Christian faith, and not just a general Christian theology textbook?
• You highlight the importance of distinguishing Law and Gospel. Why is this so central to Lutheran theology—and how can readers learn to do it well?
• How does theology “listen” both to God and to the neighbor, and what’s the danger if we ignore either one?
• You note that “Christendom” is over. How does that change the task of theology and the way the Gospel is shared?
• What are some of the specific cultural or theological challenges facing Christians today that this new edition addresses?
• You write “The sanctified life is often called a life of new obedience.” What does a life of new obedience look like?
• In an age of increasing biblical illiteracy, how can theology still function as proclamation rather than just academic reflection?
• What do you say to someone who thinks doctrine divides more than it unites?

About the Guest

 Rev. Dr. Robert Kolb received M. Div. and S.T.M. degrees from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and a Ph.D. in history at the University of Wisconsin. He served as the director of the Center for Reformation Research from 1973-1977 and as a professor at Concordia College in Saint Paul, Minnesota from 1977-1993, then the acting president from 1989-1990. Kolb was then the director of the Institute for Mission Studies and professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary in Saint Louis from 1993-2006. He continues to teach classes at the seminary following his retirement.

Order the book now on CPH’s website at cph.org/divinedirections.

Show Notes
From Moses’ journey to the Promised Land and Ruth’s journey in life, it’s easy to see that following your own itinerary never goes as planned. In her new book, Divine Directions, Sharla Fritz writes about how this is especially true in her own travel woes. During the episode, listen as Sharla discusses these personal travel stories, the eight Biblical travels she writes about in the book, what it looks like to trust God’s itinerary instead of our own, how to reflect on our spiritual journeys, and more. 

Questions

• What inspired you to write Divine Directions, and how did your own experiences with travel influence the theme?
• Why did you choose these eight biblical journeys to include in the study? Was there one that surprised you during your research?
• What common threads did you find among these journeys, despite their very different circumstances and outcomes?
• Can you share how one of these stories—perhaps Ruth or Jonah—has shaped your understanding of God’s guidance?
• One of the study's key ideas is that “God rarely gives us a detailed map.” How can that be comforting instead of frustrating?
• What does it look like, practically, to trust God’s itinerary instead of our own?
• You include timelines, maps, and historical context. How does understanding the “where and when” of Scripture help readers apply it to the “here and now”?
• This study is meant for both individual reflection and small group discussion. How does community enhance our ability to follow God’s lead?
• You encourage readers to share their own stories. Why is it so powerful to reflect on our spiritual journeys out loud?
• What encouragement would you offer to someone currently feeling lost or stuck at a crossroads in life?
• What do you hope readers take away from this study once they’ve completed all eight journeys?

About the Guest
Sharla Fritz loves to speak with women's groups and to share about her own struggles, victories, and failures, speaking about how God is miraculously present through them all. In doing so, she hopes to share a few laughs and meet new sisters in Christ. Sharla is a Lutheran author, musician, and speaker. She has published numerous books with Concordia Publishing House, including Measured by Grace, God's Relentless Love, Divine Makeover: God Makes You Beautiful, Divine Design: 40 Days of Spiritual Makeover, and Bless These Lips: 40 Days of Spiritual Transformation.

Get his book by visiting cph.org/feast.
 
 Show Notes

In his new book, Come and Be Filled, Kristopher R. Whitby explores eleven meals throughout Scripture and the lessons God teaches there around His table. Through Jesus, your meals will mean more.

Kris talks to listeners about the idea behind his book and how it originated, how he went about choosing and studying the eleven meals in Scripture that he writes about, the importance of fellowship and having meals together in today’s world, and more.
 

About the Guest

 Rev. Kristopher Whitby served for 24 years as a parish pastor, both in Florida and Illinois. In his years of pastoral ministry, Kris was honored to serve as the national LWML pastoral counselor as well as the Northern Illinois District’s North Region Vice President. He has been blessed to host the radio talk show “Faith Talks” and serve as a volunteer chaplain for the Association of Retired Intelligence Officers during the days of 9/11. Pastor Kris now serves on district staff as Assistant to the President–Mission and Ministry in the Northern Illinois District. He and his wife, Marguerita, enjoy their son and daughter, their daughter- and son-in-law, and their three grandchildren that the Lord has provided them, as well as board games, theater, and improv comedy. 

Get Donna’s newest Bible Study at cph.org/joshua.
 
 Show Notes
Joshua was called into what is arguably one of the most intimidating leadership roles in the history of God’s people. As he stood at the Jordan River looking into the land that God had promised, Joshua knew what awaited him—but he was strong and courageous, having faith that God was with him. 

In her new Bible Study, Donna Snow looks at the life of Joshua in in an eight-session, verse-by-verse format. During the episode, Donna reflects on why she chose Joshua, how we can relate to his study today, the connects she made to the Armor of God, how we can be strong and courageous in our everyday lives, and more. 

About the Guest
A soul-stirring, engaging speaker, author, Bible teacher, and worship leader, Donna Snow has a passion for studying and teaching God’s Word. Her clear, down-to-earth style encourages women of all ages to wholeheartedly love, serve, and live for Jesus Christ. Since launching Artesian Ministries in 2007, Donna has scratched out over 20 Bible studies and enjoys the incredible privilege of traveling throughout the U.S. and internationally to speak and teach where the Lord opens doors. Donna writes regularly on her blog, Hydrated Living, as she seeks to find beauty in the quiet and sacred in the chaos, treasuring that this path is a holy experience planned by God before the beginning of time. A native, life-long Texan, Donna fuels her incredible journey with the Word, coffee, chocolate, family, friends, and worship.

Questions

• What inspired you to write this Bible study?
• Why did God give us marriage?
• How would you respond to someone who thinks that the applications you share in the study are idealistic or theoretical?
• What are some common misconceptions about marriage?
• How does understanding marriage as a covenant deepen our appreciation of marriage and salvation?
• Explain what you mean by describing Song of Solomon as the Ephesians 5 of the Old Testament.
• What does this mean? How should love be defined? How should authority be defined?
• Talk about the biblical images used to describe God’s relationship with His people and how they relate to marriage.
• How can single/engaged Christians prepare for a biblical understanding of marriage?
• What advice do you have for couples/groups who are beginning this study?

About the Guest

 David A. Shadday is the pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Indianapolis. He has devoted much of his 40 years as a pastor to the subject of marriage and family. He has been married to his wife Sherry (Heierman) for 44 years, and they have four children and seven grandchildren. Pastor Shadday’s main hobby is writing songs.

Mike also delves into his experiences as a pastor and father and how these shaped his insight in the book, advice he has for young men who feel disconnected from God, why he chose the format he did for the book, and more. 

Questions

• How did your experiences as a pastor and parent shape the topics covered in the book?
• What are some of the biggest struggles you see young men facing today?
• The book covers difficult topics like anxiety and pornography—how do you approach these issues with grace and biblical guidance?
• Why did you choose the format of short reflections with space to write or sketch?
• How do you hope young men will engage with this book—individually, in small groups, or with mentors?
• What advice would you give to a young man who feels disconnected from God and struggles to trust in Him?
• The title calls this a “survival kit”—how does this devotional equip young men to navigate today’s world?
• What feedback have you received from young men, parents, or youth leaders about this book?

About the Guest
When not teaching and writing, Michael W. Newman enjoys running the Texas roads, reading a good book, and spending time with his family. He is husband to Cindy, father to two beautiful daughters, and grandpa to a brood of wonderful grandchildren.

Get Andy’s newest book at cph.org/tenlies.

 Show Notes
“You need and deserve more.” “You should cover up your sins.” “You are too sinful to be forgiven.”

Have you ever heard Satan murmur these lies into your ear? In Ten Lies Satan Loves to Tell, Andrew R. Jones identifies 10 lies Satan—the father of lies (John 8:44)—tells in an effort to dismantle God’s kingdom and God’s people. Andy tells listeners that by enhancing your radar for Satan’s schemes, you can better defend against his deception, and be encouraged to live in God’s truth. Andy also talks about writing this book as a follow-up to his first, Ten Questions to Ask Every Time You Read the Bible, how he narrowed down all the lies Satan tells to just 10, what Satan aims to achieve through his lies, and how God provides us tools to defend against both sin and Satan. 

About the Guest
Andrew R. Jones lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he enjoys writing, hiking, and adventuring with his wife, Stephanie. He has served the church on three continents in varying roles, including campus ministry, international mission work, professor of preaching, and parish pastor. His writings speak to the importance of spiritual formation in the midst of a hectic world. 

Isaac talks about who Reinhold Pieper was, historical context behind Pieper’s writing, how Pieper has influenced his own work, and advice for pastors and the challenges they face in today’s fast-paced world. 

Questions

• Who was Reinhold Pieper?
• In the foreword, Dr. Adam Koontz writes Reinhold was “the heir of much and the preserver of more.” What motivated Reinhold to write this book, and what were the influences that he was working to preserve? 
• How does this work reflect the influence of Reinhold’s teacher, CFW Walther?
• How does this book complement Walther's Law and Gospel as a preaching guide?
• What was the historical context in which Pieper wrote this book? How did this context shape his approach to preaching?
• How was this book used at LCMS seminaries before the transition to English?Pieper emphasized “strictly textual” preaching. What does this mean, and why is it important?
• Walk us through Pieper’s approach to sermon preparation.
• What does Pieper have to say about the preachers personal style, and how pastors can balance individuality with faithfulness to the text?
• How has Pieper influenced your own preaching? If you could ask him any questions about preaching in our modern context, what would you ask him?
• What advice might you expect Pieper to give to pastors today who are faced with the challenges of preaching in a highly digital and fast-paced world? 

About the Guest
 
Isaac Johnson is the pastor of New Hope Lutheran Church in Charles City, Iowa. He is married to Kaite Johnson, and they have five children: Elise, Clara, Lyla, James, and Annie. Besides ministry and family, Johnson is involved in the translation of German and Latin, focusing on the field of early Missouri Synod homiletics. He is currently enrolled in the reduced-residency Ph.D. program at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, in the Culture and Theology department with an emphasis in homiletics. He enjoys preaching, reading aloud to his family, classical guitar, and choral music. 

Pre-order the book on cph.org now! Available on January 7.
 
Show Notes
In this life, we aren't promised health, wealth, stability, or even perfect relationships. What we are promised is hope in Jesus. In Promised Hope, Michelle Diercks, author of Promised Rest: Finding Peace in God’s Presence, explores eight different names and characteristics of God and what they teach us about who He is and the hope He promises.

Michelle and Elizabeth discuss the inspiration behind Promised Hope, how she chose the names of God to study in the book, how she hopes readers use the Bible study, how the book’s theme speaks to modern struggles, and more. 

 Questions

• What inspired you to write Promised Hope and how does it build on Promised Rest?
• Why do you think hope is a topic that women today are hungry for?
• How did you choose the names of God to feature in Promised Hope?
• How do you see understanding the names of God to enhance a woman’s faith and life?
• What name(s) in Promised Hope are especially meaningful for you?
• Was there a particular name that was challenging for you?
• Let’s focus in on one or two names: Adonai and The Lord is My Rock. 
• How do you see readers using Promised Hope?
• In your opinion, how does the theme of God’s faithfulness speak to modern struggles like anxiety, fear, or uncertainty?
• What is the main thing you hope readers take away from Promised Hope?

About the Guest
 Michelle Diercks is a writer and speaker. As a professional and as a volunteer, she has taught God’s Word for more than thirty years. Michelle is the author of Promised Rest: Finding Peace in God’s Presence and the host of the podcast Peace in His Presence. She and her husband are the parents of two sons and live in Iowa.

Pre-order the next Concordia Commentary edition on the book of Lamentations on our website today or subscribe to the Concordia Commentary series to save 30% on all new and previously published volumes.

 Show Notes
The book of Lamentations, marked by its tone of mourning, loss, defeat, and heartache, provides neither a pleasant nor an easy read. Nonetheless, it meets us in the valleys of suffering we inevitably face, offering a glimpse of hope in God’s faithfulness. 

In the newest Concordia Commentary volume on Lamentations, Lessing walks readers through this valley, providing insight into the history of interpretations, narratives, and theological context. Listen to the episode as Lessing talks with host Elizabeth Pittman about why Christians should read the book of Lamentations, the destruction of Zion with the temple in Jerusalem and its implications, the Law and Gospel parts included in the book, who he wants to reach with this commentary volume, and more. 

 Questions

• Why should a Christian bother to read the biblical book of Lamentations?
• When we read through the English Bible, why not skip over this short book and go straight from Jeremiah to Ezekiel? 
• Most of the book seems depressing. After all, it is a lament. Shouldn’t Christians rejoice always? What place does a lament have in the Christian life? 
• Should lamenting be part of the corporate worship life of the church? Is Lamentations ever read as part of the lectionary in the church year? When and why?
• Much of the book mourns the destruction of Zion with the temple in Jerusalem. When did this happen in history? What was the prior history of Zion earlier in the Bible? What happens to Zion later in the Bible?
• Does Zion have anything to do with Jesus in the Gospels, or with the Christian hope expressed in the rest of the New Testament?
• Do any Christian hymns feature Zion and the temple? Do hymns include laments?
• Is the book of Lamentations all Law? Is there Gospel hope in it anywhere?
• It seems like the beginning of the book and the end of the book are all about judgment, death, and mourning. Wouldn’t it be better for a biblical book to start out happy and be optimistic at the end? If it has to have sad parts, why not hide them in the middle?
• In English the book is laid out as poetry. Is the Hebrew poetry? What constitutes Hebrew poetry? Does it have rhyme, or other things that mark it as poetry? Lamentations seems to repeat words and ideas in several lines or even a whole stanza. Why the repetition? Why not just say it concisely, once, and move on?
• What’s up with the letters of the Hebrew alphabet that are reproduced in English Bibles? 
• Finally, who do you want to reach with your commentary? 
  
  

About the Guest
Dr. R. Reed Lessing is the The Edwin F. and Esther L. Laatsch Chair of Old Testament Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota. He also serves as the University’s Director for the Center of Biblical Studies and oversees the University’s Pre-Seminary Program. Previously he was Senior Pastor at Saint Michael Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and before that, Professor of Ex

Faith Notes is available on the CPH website now!

Show Notes

Anxiety. Isolation. Bullying. Issues with parents. Pornography. Faced with issues like these, where can teen girls turn? They can turn to God. Faith Notes: A Christ-Centered Survival Kit for Young Women features nearly 100 devotions on topics like these, pointing youth to God's truth, showing them God's forgiveness and hope, and steering them toward Christ. During the episode, Cassie explains how readers can go through devotions one-by-one, or browse by topic—with plenty of room to journal or sketch. She also discusses her background in youth ministry and how she helps teens use the Bible to walk through life with confidence. 

About the Guest
 
Cassie Moore is an author, speaker, and leadership consultant with over 15 years of experience in ministry to young people. She is the author of Faith Notes: A Christ-Centered Survival Kit for Young Women and Authentic Youth Ministry: Straight Talk about Working with Kids, Teens & In-Betweens, contributor for Connected for Life: Essential Guide to Youth Ministry and Words of Peace and Protection: Devotions for Women, as well as The Gallivanter Saga adventure fiction series. She has published over 80 articles on youth and culture in addition to freelance curriculum writing. She grew up in Illinois & Minnesota, earned her master’s degree in organizational leadership from the Townsend Institute at Concordia University Irvine, has worked on national & district youth gatherings, and enjoys speaking internationally. She loves travel, hiking, & talking to strangers. She and her husband, Pastor Tyler, live in Hood River, Oregon and have two dogs. Connect with her at cassieahmoore.com.

Shop all the editions of the Lutheran Service Book by visiting cph.org.
 
Show Notes

Listen to the episode now as guest Peter Reske and host Elizabeth Pittman discuss the history of Lutheran hymnals, the connection between Scripture and the hymnody, Martin Luther’s work, how Lutheran hymns have developed throughout history, and more.
 
About the Guest

Peter C. Reske, senior editor of music/worship at Concordia Publishing House, holds degrees in English literature and historical musicology from Marquette University and Pennsylvania State University. He was the editor of the Lutheran Service Book and its attendant resources.

Pre-order the book on cph.org. Available November 7!

Show Notes
Can ordinary lives be extraordinary? In this episode, writer, speaker, and author Martha Van Buskirk passionately and graciously shares how you can make a difference in your everyday life.

During the episode, Martha talks about her new book looks into how when we seek to glorify and serve God through our "small" everyday actions, we can make a big impact in others' lives—no matter who we are, where we live, or where God takes us. She also talks about how she first started writing the book, what it means to be spiritually anchored, how we can shine the light throughout the holiday season and the many gatherings that come with it, and more. 

Questions

• Talk about how the COVID-19 pandemic got you started thinking about writing this book, and how you think others may have related to how you were feeling at the time.
• How have you seen or witnessed actions of other people that turned out to be extraordinary?
• You mentioned being “spiritually anchored” in the book. Talk about what that means and how we can be sure we are spiritually anchored. 
• How can we make sure to reserve time for our routines?
• What advice do you have for someone who is struggling and how do you remind them where they’re anchored during those times?
• For many of our listeners, one of the areas we serve is in the local congregation. When it comes to how we are helping in our local congregation, why should kindness be kept at the center of our interactions?
• What would you have wanted younger Martha of 20 years ago to know or resonate with from this book?
• What would you say to someone who has tried to help someone and has been burned in the past?
• Families will be gathering again soon during the holiday season. It can be easy to put our guards down and snap at somebody at these gatherings. How can we be intentional during these events and make sure we are shining a light?
• Leave our listeners with an action challenge with how they can find their purpose in their every day.

About the Guest

Martha Van Buskirk is a professional writer, encouraging speaker, and new author living in Houston. She and her husband, Raymond, are proud parents of three and doting grandparents. Martha loves Jesus, her family, reading, strong coffee, abstract art, long walks, and the mountains. She holds a BA in journalism from Valparaiso University and certification in nonprofit leadership from Rice University.

Pre-order the book at cph.org/listen. Available October 22.

Show Notes
Are you a good listener? Many people believe that they are but, when asked if they believe others are good listeners, the answer is usually no. Perhaps we all can learn to be better listeners. And there's no better model than Jesus Christ Himself. 

Listen to the episode now as Brian Davies talks about his new book where he takes readers on a journey of sitting back, opening your heart, and learning how to truly hear what others are saying. Brian discusses what it really means to be a good listener, how we can bring the Gospel to others by learning to really hear what they are saying, and more. 

About the Guest
Brian Davies serves as pastor of Lord of Glory Lutheran Church in Grayslake, Illinois, and as chaplain for the Grayslake Fire Department. Rev. Davies graduated from Concordia River Forest (now Concordia Chicago) in 2002, studying communications and biblical languages, and then went on to earn his master of divinity at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. He and his wife, Beth, have three children: Kate, Megan, and Luke.

Learn more about the curriculum for 5th-8th grade students at cph.org/resilientminds.

Show Notes
Listen to the episode now as Belinda and Kara discuss their biblical, research-based curriculum on mental health, Resilient Minds: Christ-Centered Mental Health Curriculum.

Resilient Minds is now available for grades 5 to 8. Both age groups have a designated student book and teacher guide. The age groups cover the same topics, but lessons are differentiated to fit the needs of students based on their age level. 

Curriculum for high school students is set to release in May 2025. 

About the Guests
Dr. Belinda Karge is professor of doctoral programs and the chair of EdD Special Education Leadership at Concordia University Irvine.
Dr. Kara Bratton is an assistant professor in the school of education in the EdD program at Concordia University Irvine.

Find out more and pre-order the book at cph.org/realchurch. Available to order starting October 8.

 Show Notes
Come join the Campbells as they test out churches in their brand-new town of Midway. They're looking to see which one fits their family and faith the best. Each church offers something different such as post-church refreshments, use of technology, outreach programs, or childcare. Even with all of these perks, do these churches still count as "good" or are they missing something pivotal to their worship services?

Author Matthew Richard joins the podcast to talk about his new book and how he helps readers discover eight different churches, and how to be able to see what a good church has: Christ at the very center. Pastor Richard also discusses his first book in the series, Will the Real Jesus Please Stand Up?, who he came to write the second book, his own experiences as a pastor, and more. 

Questions

• What led you to book number two?
• Tell us how you created the Campbell family. 
• What should be looking for to identify the unity and purpose in a church?
• Tell us about the distinction between friendship and biblical fellowship, and why it’s important in a congregation. 
• Tell us about the architecture of a church and what it can tell us about the unity and purpose of a church.
• You draw the distinction between the Great Commission and the Great Commandment. Tell us how churches may get that misplaced. 
• Talk about one of your example churches and how they are too focused on their status as people in the church. What happens when we put too much focus on social status in the church?
• Tell us why the three estates are important for the church and how you use Peace as an example. 
• Trinity takes readers to the first church in the book that is very denomination focused. What are the good and bad aspects of denomination distinctions and at what point does fidelity to the denomination become problematic?
• What does the real church stand for and how do we recognize it?
• What would you say to someone who starts to look around their own church and are concerned their focus has strayed from Jesus? What do you suggest they do?
• What advice do you have for the pastor who is trying to ensure his congregation is staying focused on the true unity and purpose of the church?
• How can groups who work through this book together maintain a sense of fellowship as they discuss problems their own church may be facing?

About the Guest
Rev. Dr. Matthew Richard is the pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Minot, North Dakota. He is married to Serenity, and they have three children. Besides being a busy dad, he enjoys amateur carpentry work and knife collecting, as well as being a whisky and Taekwondo enthusiast.

Find out more and get the book at cph.org. 

Show Notes
Have you ever wondered what the Lutheran Reformation looked like in a 
 specific locality? 

Rev. Dr. John A. Maxfield reveals this in his new book by detailing the intellectual, personal, social, and political influences and events that shaped the Lower-Saxon town of Brunswick on its journey from evangelical reform to Lutheran culture. Listen to the episode now as Dr. Maxfield explores how he began writing this historical account, why he chose the community of Brunswick as the focal point, overall political developments and themes, and what lessons we today can take away from the people of Brunswick.

Questions

• Tell us how this book came about.
• Why Brunswick/Braunschweig?
• What connections exist between this town and the "major actors" in the Reformation?
• In what ways did the town embrace reformation theology, and how did they put their own "stamp" on things?
• In the overall timeline, where does the Church Order fall in terms of whole communities choosing to live as Evangelicals/Lutherans?
• What are the connections to the later developments politically concerning the Smalcald War, the princes' revolt, and the Magdeburg Confession?
• Looking "down the road"—describe the role Brunswick/Braunschweig played for the eventual "unification" around the Formula of Concord?
• What lessons can we as Lutherans today take from the experiences of Brunswick?

About the Guest
John A. Maxfield is a professor of history and religious studies at Concordia University of Edmonton in Alberta, Canada. In addition to numerous articles and book chapters, he edited Defending Luther’s Reformation (CPH, 2017) and wrote Luther’s Lectures on Genesis and the Formation of Evangelical Identity (Truman State University Press, 2008). He and his wife, Jennifer, have four adult children.

Pre-order Deb’s newest book at cph.org/immeasurablymore. Available on September 24!

Show Notes
 In Ephesians 3:20, Paul tells us that God can do “immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine” (NIV). 
 Listen now as Deb Burma talks about her new devotional book that beautifully reveals what this  verse means in her relational, conversational, richly scriptural words written for you. 

Across 100 devotions with journaling and prayer prompts, readers—individually or with their sisters in Christ—will discover God‘s immeasurable grace and so much more.  

Get Deb’s book on cph.org and Amazon!

About the Guest
Deb Burma is a sought-after speaker for women’s conferences, retreats, and ministry events. Her assortment of books and devotionals include best-selling Bible studies, JOY: A Study of Philippians and Living a Chocolate Life, along with Beautiful Feet, Stepping Out, and more. Deb is a follower of Jesus, a pastor’s wife, and a mom. She’s a blogger, a women’s ministry leader, and a self-proclaimed coffee/chocolate connoisseur. Above all, she is a grace-filled child of God.

Get the newest volume in the series at cph.org. 

Show Notes
In this new episode, Dr. German joins host Elizabeth Pittman to discuss the Biblical books of Haggai and Malachi. In his new Concordia Commentary volume covering these books, readers will explore a rigorous analysis of Haggai's exhortation to rebuild the temple and Malachi's concern with the practices therein—both revealing the standard to which God calls His church.

 Questions

• What special challenges did God's people face in this time period after the return from exile in Babylon?
• How did each of these prophets address those challenges?
• How long was the time interval between Haggai and Malachi?
• What particular events did Haggai have to address? How did he address them?
• How did the prophet Zechariah's work overlap with that of Haggai?
• What things had changed by the time of Malachi, and what did he have to address?
• How did each prophet present the promise of the Messiah?
• What were some of the pressures the people of Judah would experience during the intertestamental period - those 400 years between the Old and New Testaments?
• How did Haggai and Malachi prepare the people for these pressures?
   

About the Guest
Brian German is an associate professor and chair of the Department of Theology at Concordia University Wisconsin and director of the Concordia Bible Institute.

Pre-order the book on cph.org now. Available September 10!

 Show Notes
God earnestly wants you to grow to know Him and to more fully experience His promises in your life.

In author Terry Zuehsow’s new book from CPH, Exploring God’s Promises, readers will journey through more than 200 encouraging and assuring promises in this devotional journal. Each promise contains devotional material and theological talk to help you see how God gives and keeps this promise. Then, there’s journal space for you to answer reflection questions and truly connect with the Savior, offering Him your thanks and praise. Listen now as Terry discusses his background, how he was inspired to write about God’s promises, what promises in the Bible have impacted him the most, and more. 

 Questions

• Tell our listeners a bit about yourself.
• What led you to write this book?
• You give readers an “itinerary” for the book. Why is this important and what is your goal for it?
• 228 promises of God are covered. Is this an exhaustive list?
• What promises have you found to be meaningful to you personally?
• What promise would you share with someone experiencing loneliness? Anger? Major life changes?
   

About the Guest
Terry Zuehsow is a certified physician associate, practicing psychiatry in a Christian outpatient setting. In the past he has taught high school and college science and religion, and has worked for decades as a computer systems architect, including in research and development. Throughout his adult life, he has led Bible classes in his local church. Terry has been married to his wife Angi now for 49 years (off to a great start!), and they have two daughters and six grandchildren. His hobbies include choir, family games, and long walks.

Pre-order his book on cph.org.

Show Notes
Will people meet Jesus in us if we aggressively respond in kind to the threats we feel in the world around us? Or are these people more likely to meet Jesus in us if we patiently endure the challenges that have been set before us constantly relying on Christ? In his new book, author Chad Lakies helps in this task by first acknowledging our reality and how the church has reacted to it thus far, then he helps us to imagine better ways that we can interact with the world around us - ways that will help the light shine through and reflect the life-changing love of Jesus to our neighbors.

Listen to the episode as Chad dives into his book and discusses what it means to live in a secular age, engaging in political discussions as Christians, ways to thoughtfully discuss Christ with our peers, and more. 

Questions

• Unpack what it means “to live in a secular age.”
• Let’s talk about some of the misconceptions covered in chapter 9.
• As political discussions take over more and more of the national conversation and likely our personal conversations, can you share some tips for how we can “concentrate on sameness” rather than difference and preserve relationships despite disagreements?
• Perhaps one way to summarize this book is to say that our reactions matter for our witness, and much of the book explores how we can react differently to the difficult situations we’re in every day to better witness to those around us. Do you have any tips or reminders that you use yourself to help you temper your reactions in the moment, especially if tensions or emotions are high?
• “Authenticity” is thrown around a lot these days. Why is this problematic, and what is a better standard for authenticity?
• What are three goals for a resilient church?

About the Guest
Chad Lakies (MDiv, PhD) is Vice President for Ministry Engagement within the United States at Lutheran Hour Ministries. His former life as a nonbeliever provides exceedingly relevant experience for thinking about how to engage with friends and neighbors outside the kingdom of God. He and his wife, Bethany, have two daughters, Anabel and Daphne.

Embracing Your Lutheran Identity will release on August 27 and is available for pre-order now on cph.org. 

Show Notes
In Embracing Your Lutheran Identity, Gene Edward Veith Jr. uncovers inspiring stories and characters from church history with whom you share an identity.

Writing not as a scholar, pundit, or apologist, but as a teacher, Gene Edward Veith Jr. talks about how his new book will guide readers through the Holy Spirit's work from the early church, through the Reformation, and into Lutheranism today through engaging accounts, modern parallels, and thought-provoking questions. Gene also discusses why our baptismal identity is important to our faith lives, why we study connections to the early church and more. 

Questions

• How does having a strong Lutheran identity help strengthen our identity in Christ?
• Culture today is preoccupied with ethnicity, social status, race, and identity. How does the Bible address these preoccupations? 
• Why is our baptismal identity so much more important than any other way we identify ourselves?
• What parallels are there between the difficulties of Christians today and the Christians of the early church?
• Why is it helpful for us to think of our church and ourselves as being connected to the early church?
• What lessons can we learn from the medieval church?
• Tell us about the rise of American Lutheranism. 
• You write that “Lutheranism offers the kind of Christianity that best speaks to the spiritual issues of today.” Why is this?

About the Guest
Gene Edward Veith Jr. is a retired English professor and college administrator, most recently at Patrick Henry College and Concordia University Wisconsin. He is the author of twenty-seven books, including Authentic Christianity: How Lutheran Theology Speaks to a Postmodern World; Christianity in an Age of Terrorism, and God at Work. He has a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas and currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, Jackquelyn. 

Get a copy of his book on cph.org. 

Show Notes

The third commandment asks Christians to remember the sabbath day by keeping it holy - but how is one supposed to keep it holy? And how does work, rest, and play help us do just that? Dr. Joel Biermann joins the episode to talk about the sabbath and what it means for us in our daily lives.

Listen to the full episode to hear Dr. Biermann talk about who he wrote his new book for, what his goal was when writing, how we can understand the sabbath’s implications for our lives, the significance of the sabbath in the Bible, and more. 

Questions

• You wrote this for a lay audience. How did you know that it was ready for a lay audience?
• What is your goal for Day 7?
• What do most people get wrong about the Sabbath?
• What does the Sabbath have to do with God creating the world?
• Is there any significance to Adam and Eve being created on the sixth day, and then resting with God on the seventh day?
• How did the Israelites in the Old Testament understand and observe the Sabbath?
• How did Jesus' teachings and healing miracles on the Sabbath help shape our understanding of what Sabbath means for us?
• Does the Sabbath give us a glimpse into what our eternal life with Christ in heaven will be like?
• What does it look like to live the vita receptiva?
• In your introduction, you say that the biblical idea of remembering the sabbath deserves more attention. What do you mean?
• What does it mean to follow the sabbath?
• What do you think most people get wrong about the sabbath? 
• Why is called the sabbath? 

About the Guest
 
The son of a pastor, Joel Biermann was raised in parishes in Alberta, Nebraska, and Michigan. After serving St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Holt, Michigan for 11 years, Dr. Biermann returned to Concordia Seminary to pursue graduate work. In 2002, he joined the faculty at Concordia Seminary in the department of systematic theology, teaching doctrinal theology with a special interest and emphasis centered on ethics and the correct role of the law in the life of the believer. Outside of his responsibilities at the seminary, Dr. Biermann serves actively at his home congregation, leading evangelism training, teaching an ongoing Sunday morning Bible class, and creating material for small group Bible studies.   Dr. Biermann is a frequent speaker at district and congregational gatherings and conferences covering a variety of topics especially relating to issues of discipleship and sanctification. Dr. Biermann holds the following degrees: B.A., Concordia College, Ann Arbor, Michigan M.Div., Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri Ph.D., Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. Dr. Biermann and his wife Jeannalee live in St. Louis where they enjoy staying active in a variety of ways in the outdoors. They have three grown children and 11 grandchildren.

Show Notes
"Just be positive!" "God only gives you what you can handle." "Others have it harder." People mean well when they say these phrases. They intend to offer comfort and help during difficult times. Yet, ask yourself, do these self-help phrases actually offer comfort to you, or do they make things feel worse?

Author Faith Doerr has heard her fair share of these phrases during struggles in her life. And she knows first-hand how they feel like "nails on a chalkboard" from the receiving end. If these phrases don't offer comfort, then is there something that can? Scripture. God's Word is full of true comfort that can help you in times of trouble and distress. In her new book, Faith takes a look at eight self-help phrases to see how they can actually do the opposite of their intentions, then turns to the Bible to find real words of comfort you can offer to those who need it. Preview her new book by listening to the full episode. 

Find Faith’s book on…

cph.org
Amazon

Questions

· Tell our audience a bit about you.

· How did you get started with your blog and Facebook community?

· How have you enjoyed the book writing/publishing process?

·What was it that led to you wanting to write about this topic?

· You mention that you're an avid journaler in the introduction. Can you talk a little about how you got started journaling and what role it plays in your faith life?

·You include journaling prompts throughout your book. Do you have some tips to share for those who haven't been journaling much or at all?

· What is the Doerr household approach to handling confusion?

·  If there was one saying you could delete from everyone’s dialogue, what would it be?

· Of all the myths you cover in your book, which one do you think is the most convincing?

· What is your response to hearing someone say “You are stronger than this problem/trial”?

·  While addressing myth 7 “Others Have it Worse”, you share some guidance on what makes a person safe or unsafe, helpful or harmful. Would you briefly explain why this is important and recap this guidance for us?

About the Guest
Faith Doerr is married to Preston and is a mama to two children: Lydia and Ezekiel. Faith received her Bachelor of Elementary Education and Lutheran teachers diploma, along with her Master of Education in trauma and resilience from Concordia Nebraska. Currently, she teaches first grade at Concordia Academy in Omaha, Nebraska. Faith writes for her blog Imperfectly Perfect Living and has the Facebook community Healthy Mamas. Here she, with the Holy Spirit working through her, teaches mamas to create a Christ-seeking life and a healthy well-being. Faith has published two mental health journals and speaks at wellness retreats and women's conferences. She is also the co-host of Seasoned Mamas: God's Grace for Every Season of Motherhood Podcast. 

Find out more about Christa’s new work at cph.org/churchhistory.

 Show Notes

Just as you are joined to Christ in your Baptism, you are joined to a family of believers who have gone before you. In Journey through Church History, Christa Petzold helps us discover men and women from church history who witness to Jesus Christ—martyrs, historians, apologists, theologians, translators, and more. Listen to the full episode as Christa previews the curriculum and shows how we can dig in and uncover our family tree rooted in Christ.

Questions

·        Church history seems universal, why does it matter that we have a text that describes the history of the Christian church from a distinctly Lutheran perspective? How does church history look different when it’s written from say a reformed perspective?

·        How early is too early to start teaching children about church history? 

·        Why is it important to start educating children about church history?

·        The new Journey through Church History book covers a lot of ground! Can you talk a little bit about some of the historical persons covered? Why were there so few women covered? How did you select the people and topics covered?

·        How does studying church history strengthen your faith and deepen your understanding of Biblical truths?

·        Some might think that this topic is too difficult or “above the heads” of younger children, and yet you included a coloring page in the Leader guide. How do you plan to use this curriculum with a broad range of ages in your homeschool situation? How might that translate for others doing the same?

·        Which theological ideas that people fought over in the early centuries of the Church surprised you? I.e. Are we still fighting over some of the same issues as the early church? 

About the Guest
 
Christa Petzold lives with her husband and four children in northern Illinois. She has a MA in Theology from Concordia University Irvine, a BA in Mathematics and Lutheran Secondary Education from Concordia University Wisconsin and is currently pursuing a PhD in History of Exegesis from Concordia Seminary, Saint Louis. She is a coauthor of Male and Female: Embracing Your Role in God’s Design, author of Gathered by Christ: The Overlooked Gift of Church, and author of Journey Through Church History Curriculum. She spends her time homeschooling, teaching theology, writing, and learning as much as she can about church history.

Find out more about the new book by visiting cph.org.

Show Notes:

Listen to the full episode now as Rev. Dr. David Loy, dean of Christ College at Concordia University Irvine, talks about our called vocations as Christians, professions versus professionals, how Faith at Work can be used by readers from all vocational backgrounds, and more. 

Get a copy of Faith at Work on…

cph.org
Amazon

Questions:

• How was the process of editing Faith at Work?
• What makes this book unique from others at CPH?
• Explain the difference between professions and professionals. 
• Talk about vocation being the golden thread. 
• Speak to the idea in one of the chapters that touches on non-Christians and whether they have vocations.
• The book was set up in two parts, with the first part emphasizing vocation and human flourishing. Why was it important to have it positioned like that?
• Talk about how you see the book being used in a classroom setting.
• What are some other ways that you may see this book being used by readers?

About the Guest:
 
Rev. Dr. David Loy is the dean of Christ College at Concordia University, Irvine.

Check out Dr. Blersch’s compositions with CPH at cph.org.

Show Notes

Listen to the episode now as Elizabeth and Peter discuss all things church music with Dr. Jeffrey Blersch. Dr. Blersch shares his background in church music, going back to when he was just eight years old, and his long career as a church musician, composer, and professor. Dr. Blersch also gives advice for students aspiring to be church musicians and majoring in music and shares some of his experiences as an educator and why it has influenced his work throughout the years. 

Questions

· Share your musical background and how you got started playing the organ.

·What does your compositional process look like? Do you write at your desk? Piano? Organ?

·What’s your favorite medium to compose for? Organ? Choir? Instruments? Piano?

· If someone aspires to be a church musician/music major, what would you tell them to get started on that path and what it is like to go into those careers?

·Share some of your experiences as an educator that have influenced you and why they did.

·What do you enjoy about composing music?

·Tell us about some of your most recent publications and what inspired you to bring them to life.

About the Guest
 
Jeffrey Blersch is an associate professor of music and the university organist at Concordia University Nebraska, where he teaches all things organ. He is a working church musician and serves as organist and choral director for Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Staplehurst, Nebraska, but he still performs across the United States as a recitalist and a guest organist at hymn festivals. Inspired by his strong background in music, Jeffrey composes numerous organ and choral works with more than one hundred of his pieces published through Concordia Publishing House. His wife, Carla, is also an organist, and together they have three children: Aaron, Ryan, and Jenna.

Pastor Andy Wright offers a resounding “yes” in his new book, Faithfully Formed. He quotes, summarizes, and synthesizes key teachings from the Confessions, revealing their relevance in our daily lives. Listen to the episode as Andy talks about why the Lutheran Confessions are important to nurturing our faith, what led him to write his book, how we are called to live in relationship with one another, and more. 

Get a copy of Faithfully Formed on…

cph.org
Amazon

Questions:

• For listeners who may not be Lutheran, what are the Lutheran Confessions?
• What led you to write Faithfully Formed?
• What is your response to someone who wonders how these writings from so long ago could be relevant to their lives today?
• Why is it important to not only believe in God, but to know and articulate who God is?
• Why is everything about Jesus?
• How do the Lutheran Confessions help us to recognize God at work in our daily lives?
• How can the Lutheran Confessions help us address tough cultural issues we see today regarding marriage and gender?
• What do the Lutheran Confessions have to say about who our neighbor is and how we should live in relationship with one another?
• How can these be viewed as a handbook for the baptized?
• Why is it important that, as Christians, we are confident in confessing Christ?

About the Guest:
Pastor Andy Wright serves as senior pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Topeka, Kansas, and previously served St. John Lutheran Church in Keystone, Iowa. He holds a B.A. in Biblical Languages from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He also holds an M.Div. and an S.T.M. in systematic theology from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He is currently working on his dissertation pertaining to the Lutheran Confessions for a Ph.D. in doctrinal theology from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. Pastor Wright and his wife, Rebekah, have been blessed by God with four daughters, a son, and children who went to be with the Lord from the womb. His areas of focus and interests in theology are the Lutheran Confessions, Luther studies, and pastoral theology. Outside of theology, he enjoys spending time with his family, playing tennis, and anything pertaining to aviation and the space program.

Get a copy of their book at cph.org/seven-practices-of-healthy-youth-ministry.

Show Notes:
Wondering how to care for the youth in your congregation? Experiencing dwindling attendance or enthusiasm? Not sure how to measure the efficacy of your ministry? LCMS Youth Ministry staff members, Rev. Dr. Mark Kiessling and DCE Julianna Shults, are here to help, offering seven markers of healthy youth ministry. With these research-based, practical insights, you’ll be empowered to take on the essential task of caring for teens in Jesus’ name. Listen now as Mark and Julianna discuss the seven practices (not programs), their journey to writing a book, what’s ahead for the Youth Ministry office, the Youth Gathering in 2025, and more. 

Get a copy of Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry on…

cph.org
Amazon

Questions:

·         Tell us all about your new book.

·         Were there any surprises during your research?

·         Who did you write the book for?

·         What are the seven practices not?

·         What do the seven practices mean?

·         If you had to spend some time digging into one of the seven, where would you                        start?

·         What are some ways warmth, challenge, and grace look like in practice?

·         Talk about the idea of resilience, identity, and Christ as one of the practices.

·         What do you say to youth leaders who have read your book and ask “So, what                         now?”

·         Tell us about what’s coming for the Youth Ministry office.

 
About the Guests:

The Rev. Mark R. Kiessling serves as the director of LCMS Youth Ministry. In that role, he supports the leadership, service, resourcing, and networking functions of LCMS Youth Ministry. Kiessling graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis in 2006 and was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters from there in 2020. Kiessling is married to Beth (Timm), who teaches Preschool at Christ Community Lutheran School in Kirkwood, Mo.

Julianna Shults serves as Program Manager for Resources and Leadership for LCMS Youth Ministry. Her work includes managing YouthESource.com and LCMS YouthLead along with other research and resourcing. She graduated from Concordia University Seward in 2005 with a BA in Psychology and Director of Christian Education Certification. As a DCE, she has served both Hope Lutheran in Plant City, FL and St. Paul Lutheran in Chicago, IL. With a lo

Order a copy of the newest edition in the series at cph.org/isaiah-1-12-concordia-commentary.

 Show Notes
Isaiah ben Amoz presents a massive tome of historical references and prophetic words that culminate in the coming of Jesus Christ. 

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Andrew Bartelt talks about the Concordia Commentary volume that he wrote on the first 12 chapters of the significant book of Isaiah. Andy reflects on his meticulous commentary and the careful juxtaposition of the grammar of these chapters. He also illuminates the voice of Isaiah and sheds light on his process for writing for the Concordia Commentary series. 

Get a copy of Isaiah 1-12 – Concordia Commentary on…
cph.org
Amazon

About the series
The Concordia Commentary Series: A Theological Exposition of Sacred Scripture is written to enable pastors and teachers of the Word to proclaim the Gospel with greater insight, clarity, and faithfulness to the divine intent of the Biblical text. The series will cover all the canonical books of the Old and New Testament, with an original translation and meticulous grammatical analysis of the Hebrew, Aramaic, or Greek of each text. The foremost interpretive lens centers on the unified proclamation of the person and work of Christ across every Scriptural book.

Learn about the Concordia Commentary subscription to save 30% on all new and previously published volumes at cph.org/concordia-commentary-subscription.

About the Guest
Dr. Andrew H. Bartelt is a professor emeritus at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. He retired in 2020 after 42 years of distinguished service. At the time of his retirement, he was the Gustav and Sophie Butterbach Professor of Exegetical Theology and professor of Exegetical Theology. His areas of expertise include the Hebrew language, Prophets (Isaiah), Hebrew poetry, and biblical theology.

Questions
What’s it like being a first time author?
Every leader has a story. Tell us about your story and what led you to a place where you were ready to tell it and help other leaders. 
Explain what it means to lead by faith, not by sight. 
Tell us about the windshield fallacy.
Explain the leadership lesson you use from Indiana Jones.
How did your educational background in mathematics prepare you for leadership and what lessons have you brought into your current roles because of that?
Tell us a little bit about accountability and how that plays into a leader's role.
Tell us about a leadership lesson that you took away from the Lion King.
What advice do you have for leaders who encounter crisis in their leadership journey?What has it been like traveling around the country talking to different groups about leadership?
What encouragement would you like to leave our listeners with?

About the Guest
Jim Sanft has more than 25 years of executive leadership experience, including being CEO of Concordia Plans, a complex financial services non-profit agency of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. He led his organization through the Global Financial Crisis of 2008 to 2009 as well as the global pandemic of 2020. Throughout his career, Sanft has developed a high-performing team that has been recognized both locally and nationally. He is an established leader among his colleagues from other denominations and serves as chair of The Church Alliance, an organization that advocates for employee benefits for faith leaders and their families. Away from the office, Jim is a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

Get a copy of his book at cph.org/christiansymbols.


 Show Notes

Listen now as author and artist Edward Riojas dives into the world of Christian symbols. 

Edward joins host Elizabeth Pittman to talk about his new volume of more than 600 historic Christian symbols. The pair explore how in today’s church, we now use these same symbols throughout the sanctuary and in worship materials that Jesus Himself used in his teachings. Edward emphasizes the importance of symbols and art in understanding Scripture and why church leaders should carefully treat each symbol they use during worship. He also talks about how this volume came to be, some of his favorite symbols to investigate, what young artists should know, and more. 

Edward’s website
Edward’s Facebook Page

Questions

- Tell us about your life as an artist in the Christian and secular space.

- Talk about the impact that art in general and symbols have on our faith and understanding of Scripture. 

- Where do you see symbols being used well in the church today?

- How have you seen some denominations embrace or shy away from using symbols?

- How long ago did you start this project? Tell us a little bit about how this book started. 

- Who else is this book for besides pastors and worship leaders? How will history buffs benefit from reading this?

- Did anything surprise you while working on the book?

-  Do you have a favorite symbol from the book? Or three that you gravitate towards?

-  Why is it important for us as Christians to understand these symbols rather than just passing by them?

About the Guest

Edward Riojas graduated summa cum laude from Aquinas College, Grand Rapids, Michigan, with a BFA degree. He has worked professionally for more than forty years, including thirty-one years in the newspaper industry. Riojas has returned to his fine-art roots, creating sacred art for commissions and collaborations with various Lutheran entities. His work can be found in sanctuaries, institutions, private collections, and markets throughout the United States and across the globe.

In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, Peter Reske, senior editor of Music/Worship at Concordia Publishing House, returns to share his insight into some of his favorite hymns during the Easter season. Peter highlights three hymns and discusses the themes found in each piece.  

Shop all the different editions of the Lutheran Service Book by visiting cph.org.

Show Notes

Guest Peter Reske and host Elizabeth Pittman dive into three Easter hymns from the Lutheran Service Book in the newest episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast. Peter’s selections may surprise you but will certainly enrich your understanding of how music is used throughout the Easter season. Peter goes into the history behind each of his selected hymns, explains the themes throughout each hymn’s text, and even mentions the way he is commemorating the 500th anniversary of Lutheran hymnals in 2024. Listen to the full episode now to hear what Peter has to say about these favorite Easter hymns.

Learn more about the Europe Music Tour that Peter is leading with Christian Travel Planners on their website at christiantravelplanners.com/tours/best-music-tour-072024. 

About the Guest

Peter C. Reske, senior editor of music/worship at Concordia Publishing House, holds degrees in English literature and historical musicology from Marquette University and Pennsylvania State University. He was the editor of the Lutheran Service Book and its attendant resources.

Learn more about Grace Place Wellness at lcef.org/grace-place-wellness. 

Show Notes

Listen to the full episode as Greg and Tom provide an overview of the mission of Grace Place Wellness and the history behind this organization that has led to its work today. The pair also provide insight into how we the laity can help care for our church workers and leaders, give advice for ministry leaders, talk about some of the most common concerns they see in church workers’ wellness, and preview what their goals are for the Grace Place Wellness Podcast. 

Learn more about Grace Place Wellness Ministries at lcef.org/grace-place-wellness.
Listen to the Grace Place Wellness Podcast wherever you listen podcasts or at lcef.org/gpw-podcast.

Questions

·         Tell our listeners about Grace Place Wellness.

·         What is the Lutheran Wellness Wheel?

·         As you work with church workers, what are the most common concerns you hear? 

·         How can church workers find a balance between ministry and their personal lives? 

·         Conflict happens—even in the church. What advice do you have for ministry leaders who are experiencing conflict in their church or school?

·         What are your goals for the Grace Place Wellness Podcast? 

·         How can the laity help care for our church workers?

About the Guests

Rev. Dr. Gregory Walton is the vice president of Grace Place Wellness Ministries, which is a part of Ministry Solutions at LCEF.

Rev. Thoms Eggebrecht is the senior vice president of ministry solutions at LCEF.  

Get a copy of Unfailing at cph.org/unfailing. 

 Show Notes

Change, whether big or small, can unnerve us. The good news is that God does not leave us to go through the ups and downs in our lives alone. Assurance and encouragement can be found in Scripture. 

Looking at the life of the prophet Samuel, Pastor Kennedy writes about the changes Samuel endured and uses these examples to show readers how they can trust God to lead them through the shifts in their own lives. Listen to the full episode to hear from Pastor Kennedy as he dives into 

Pastor Kennedy’s website: pastorchriskennedy.com            

 Questions

-        Why Samuel? What led you to him as the catalyst for this conversation about change?

-        Why do you think it [change] can be so hard for us?

-        Is there a time in your life when there's been a change that you'd like to share and what you learned from that?

-        In chapter 3, you go through God’s Word and where He speaks about change. Can you speak to some of those verses and where we can find comfort there?

-        You reference the research you did with your congregation and with others you know. What did you learn from that survey and what people told you where they struggle with change?

-        Sometimes we’re with a friend or a loved one who's experiencing change. What can we learn from Samuel about why we should advocate for that person?

-        As you set the book up, you include some discussion questions at the end of every chapter. What do you hope readers will take away from this, whether they're reading individually, or if they're reading this as part of a Bible class or a small group?

About the Guest

Christopher M. Kennedy is the senior pastor of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, School, and Childcare in San Antonio, Texas. He is also the author of Equipped: The Armor of God for Everyday Struggles, Grace under Pressure: Responding Faithfully to Stress, and Jesus Said What? He earned a bachelor’s degree in communication, a Master of Theology, and a doctorate in ministry. Pastor Kennedy and his wife are parents of four children.

Learn more about Y4Life and the Y4Life conference by visiting  y4life.org. 

Show Notes
A wide scope of life issues exists in today’s world. In this episode, Michelle Bauman shares her insight into the depth of life issues impacting our world and how she works to help youth address these issues head on. Michelle also gives a glimpse into Life Week and the Y4Life conference that took place this past January in Washington D.C., what supporting life looks like in a post-Roe V. Wade society, and how youth across the country can get involved with Y4Life to support the promotion of life-affirming values in their schools, communities, states, and nation.  

Y4Life website: y4life.org               
Y4Life on Instagram:  @lfly4life

Questions

-          Tell us about the structure of Y4Life and how that looks at different schools across the country. 

-          Why do you see youth wanting to be involved (in Y4Life)?

-          Life issues go farther than abortion. Tell us why we should care about all life issues. 

-          Our culture often tells women, “My body. My choice.” How does Y4Life suggest responding to that and pivoting to the point that all life is valuable?

-          How did the overturning of Roe V. Wade affect your work and the work of Y4Life and Lutherans for Life?

-          If one of our listeners is at a school or in a place that doesn’t have a Y4Life team – how can they get started?

-          Leave our listeners with a word of encouragement for supporting life and how we can serve our neighbors through this work. 

About the Guest
Michelle Bauman is the Director of Y4Life and joined Lutherans for Life in 2019. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Lutheran teaching from Concordia Nebraska and a master’s degree in English from the University of Indianapolis. Michelle helps young adults understand and address life issues from a Christian perspective. Learn more about Michelle at y4life.org. 

Show Notes
We have all faced situations where we feel we can’t forgive someone else or where we feel we are unforgivable for what we’ve done or said. Only through Christ do we see what real forgiveness and being forgiven look like. Listen to this episode of the podcast to hear from co-authors Ted and Mark as they debut their new book and discuss important topics such as what unforgiveness is, how we can learn to forgive someone by Christ’s example, and what happens when we refuse to forgive. Listeners will hear from the authors themselves as they reflect on how their book can be used in different settings and what they believe will bring you back to their insight on unforgiveness again and again.
Get in touch with the guests…
Ted’s website: tedkober.com
Ted’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-kober-24b117a/             
Mark’s bio from Concordia Seminary:  https://www.csl.edu/directory/mark-rockenbach/
Mark’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mark-rockenbach-b4429713/   

Questions

Tell us why the topic of unforgiveness is so important to address.
How do you define unforgiveness?
What does that process (of being able to forgive) look like?  
“Why can’t I just forgive and forget?” Tell us about that question.
 In many cases, an action leading to someone needing forgiveness leads to consequences. Tell us why forgiveness does not necessarily remove those consequences. 
Could you share an example with us of a situation where someone has overcome unforgiveness in their life and what that looked like?
What happens when we don’t forgive?
What can we do if we have someone in our lives who is stuck in that place of unforgiveness? 
How do you imagine the book being used in a congregational setting or by a counselor working with people?
Tell us a little bit about what being a reconciler means and where you have seen God at work.
Mark, how has your teaching and research over the years set you up to write this book? What encouragement would you leave listeners with as they wrestle with forgiving someone or accepting someone’s offer of forgiveness?

About the Guests
Ted Kober, a Certified Christian Conciliator™ since 1992, reconciles personal disputes, lawsuits, and church conflicts. He has published numerous resources and taught reconciliation on six continents. Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, awarded Ted a doctor of letters degree, honoris causa, for his writing, speaking, and impact to the global church.
Mark Rockenbach (MDiv, MA, PhD) is an associate professor of practical theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, where he also directs various programs. Previously, he served as a parish pastor, an executive for church worker health and reconciliation, and a mental health counselor. Mark and his wife, Darlene have three children, Joshua, Rachel, and Andrew. 

Get a copy of each of Dr. Voelz’s Concordia Commentary editions on Mark by visiting cph.org. 

Show Notes

Unpack the richness of the Law and Gospel of Mark during this episode with guest Rev. Dr. James Voelz. 

Listen now as Dr. Voelz dives into the unique Gospel of Mark and uncovers the relationship between Mark and the other Gospels. Listeners will get an overview of the book itself, insight into how Mark is written, the speed at which this Gospel is written, what stories are covered, and a look into linguistic themes throughout the chapters. 

Questions

-        How was your time at the Society of Biblical Literature and how were your Commentaries received there?

-        Let’s talk about Mark as a Gospel and its significance. Give us an overview of this Gospel. 

-        How is it different than the other Gospel accounts?

-        Talk about your oral presentation of Mark and your part in memorizing this Gospel. 

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. James Voelz is the Dr. Jack Dean Kingsbury Professor of New Testament Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis. A faculty member since 1989, he is a graduate professor of Exegetical Theology. He has also served as chair of the Department of Exegetical Theology (2013–15), dean of the faculty (2006–10) and dean of the Graduate School (1996–2002).

The next volume in the series will be available on November 30 and is available for pre-order now. Get your copy at cph.org/isaiah-13-37-concordia-commentary. 

Plus, subscribe to the Concordia Commentary series on CPH’s website by visiting cph.org/commentary. 

 Show Notes

Chapters 13 to 27 of the book of Isaiah are often overlooked, yet they are invaluable. These chapters play an integral part in our understanding of God's plan for all of his people.

Listen to this episode as author Dr. Paul Raabe explores his time writing the newest edition in the Concordia Commentary series that covers Isaiah chapters 13 to 27. Dr. Raabe will provide insight into the message found in this text, the impact of studying Isaiah on his own faith, and encouragement for lay people who may be interested in diving into this Old Testament book of the Bible. 

Questions

-        What was it like spending so much of your professional life studying Isaiah?

-        When you’re translating from Hebrew to English, how difficult is it to capture the nuance of the poetry found in Isaiah?

-        Tell us about the message of the book of Isaiah as a whole. 

-        Are the judgments found in these chapters of Isaiah only meant for unbelievers or do they also apply to Christians? How do we look at that today?

-        Tell us about the Gospel message found in Isaiah. Do we see that message come through in these prophecies?

-        Have you found studying Isaiah over the years has had an impact on your personal faith?

-        You’ve taught about Isaiah in a variety of contexts. How have you approached teaching Isaiah in all these contexts?

-        What ways have you found to be effective to encourage your students to spend time in the Word?

-        For those of us who are not trained in Hebrew, what is your encouragement for the average lay people who may pick up this volume of Concordia Commentary?

 About the Guest
 
Dr. Paul Raabe is a professor emeritus at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, retiring in 2018 after 35 years as professor of Exegetical Theology. Dr. Raabe’s areas of interest and expertise include the Hebrew Prophets and poetry, Old Testament theology, and biblical theology. He has also served on The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod’s Commission on Theology and has co-edited a previous piece for Concordia Publishing House, The Press of the Text, a Festschrift in honor of Concordia Seminary Professor Dr. James W. Voelz. Dr. Raabe received his Master of Divinity from Concordia Seminary and a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University, Nebraska, a Master of Arts from Washington University in St. Louis, and a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.

Pre-order Al’s newest book on CPH’s website by visiting cph.org/faith-that-shines-in-the-culture. 

Show Notes
Being part of society as a Christian means living out your faith in the church, the government, and the family. At the same time, every individual is called by God to do something in the world, known as your vocation. Both your vocation and living in The Three Estates are beautiful and rich parts of being a Lutheran. 

In his upcoming book, Al Espinosa examines both of these theological concepts to help you see how to take up God's greatest call: showcasing God's light through you and into the world. During the episode, Al talks about how Christians can learn how to express Christ's light in each portion of their life as they go about their daily routine. He also discusses how this new book fits in with his two previous Faith That… books with CPH and what listeners should expect from the work.
 
 Questions

• How does your new book fit into your previous writing?
• What is vocation? What does vocation look like?
• What are the Three Estates?
• What advice do you have for church members to help underscore how important it is for every member of the local congregation to be active and involved?

About the Guest
Rev. Dr. Alfonso Espinosa is a graduate of Concordia University Irvine (BA) and Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana (MDiv). He received an MA in Christian apologetics from Biola University and a Ph.D. in theology from the University of Birmingham (England) in 2009. Dr. Espinosa is the senior pastor at St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Irvine, California, and a member of the Board for National Mission of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. In addition to writing the faith-and-culture trilogy, he has served as an author for The Lutheran Difference, a study notes team member for The Lutheran Study Bible, and a contributor to the Biblical Response series. 

Find out more about LWML at lwml.org.

Show Notes
In this episode, Eden sits down to discuss her new role as president, what she is looking forward to for the upcoming biennium, and how listeners can get involved in LWML as a young woman looking to serve Christ and the church. 

Eden also shares some of her favorite memories of LWML after having served and been involved in the organization for many years. She provides advice for those looking to get involved in ministry and gives her insight into how LWML continues to faithfully serve the LCMS.     

Questions Covered

·        What is LWML Sunday? How can it be celebrated in the congregation? 

·        Tell us about this year’s theme.

·        What were some of the highlights from this summer’s convention for you?

·        What excites you about the coming biennium? How can people support the LWML mission grants?

·        How can listeners support their local LWML? If they don’t have an active chapter, how can they get connected?

·        What tools have you found helpful for your personal devotions?

·        How did you get involved with Visual Faith Ministry?

·        What is the best encouragement you've received in your service in the Church?

·        Who is your favorite woman in the Bible?

·        What would you tell very young girls about what it means to be a woman in mission?

·        How can our listeners pray for you and the LWML?
 
About the Guest
Eden Keefe is president of LWML and was elected to this position at the LWML National Convention in 2023. She has also served as LWML Vice President of Christian Life from 2013-2017, as Leader Development Committee Chairman, and as a member of the Christian Resources Editors. Eden worked on the LWML Official Publications Staff as Christian Living Editor and has served LWML at the district level in the Kansas district as well as the LWML Carolinas District Recording Secretary.

Battle of the Soul will be available on October 31, 2023. Pre-order your copy by visiting cph.org/battle-of-the-soul-luther-reforms-vice-and-virtue.

Show Notes
 
Envy, greed, gluttony, lust, anger, sloth, and pride are all vices and manifestations of our unbelief. Pastor Fieberkorn joins Elizabeth Pittman to explain how our daily living of the Ten Commandments helps kill our unbelief.

Listen as Pastor Fieberkorn reflects on how he came to write about the ideas of vice and virtue, what he defines as believers’ daily battle, how Martin Luther reformed thinking about these everyday struggles, and more.   

 Questions Covered

·         What is the battle of the soul?

·         How did you first notice the ideas of vice and virtue in Luther? Were you surprised to see how often Luther used these ideas?

·         How does repeated engagement in sinful thinking turn into a habitual vice that becomes our way of looking at the world? How might it affect our neighbors?

·         How can naming our vices help us diagnose something that might be becoming an idol in our lives?

·         What does Christian virtue look like according to Luther?

·         Luther matches up vices and virtues with the 10 Commandments. Give a couple examples of this.

·         Why must we actively work to kill our vices/slay the old man?

·         Why is it’s so important to remember our Baptism each day and the comfort that gives?

·         At the back of the book, there are prayers for the reader to use in their daily lives. Can you talk about how readers might use those and why they’re helpful? How do these types of prayers help us grow in our prayer life and strengthen us for battle?
 

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. Michael Todd Fieberkornhas served as a Lutheran pastor at Zion in St. Charles, Missouri, since 2019. He is a second-career pastor who served active duty in the Air Force for six years and currently serves in the Air Force Reserves. Pastor Fieberkorn and his wife, Angela, have three children.

Get a copy of the devotions on cph.org at cph.org/peace-came-to-earth-daily-devotions-for-advent-and-christmas.

Show Notes:
 
In today’s world, Christmastime is often busy, hectic, and stressful but that’s not what Christmas is about. Christmas is about a manger and hay, stables and shepherds, and a swaddled baby called the Prince of Peace. 

In this episode Dan provides insight into his new daily devotions Peace Came to Earth, where readers will take a step back and celebrate the peace and simplicity of Christmas. He talks about the metaphor of the star used in the Advent series, other imagery used to paint the story of Jesus, how we find lasting peace, and how God shows us the lasting peace only He can provide. 

About the Guest
 
Rev. Daniel E. Paavola is a professor and pastor with the gifts of storytelling, motorcycle riding, and Model T restoring. He is a professor of theology at Concordia University Wisconsin and served twelve years as pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Butternut, Wisconsin.

In this episode, Dr. Saunders explains how he came across the teachings on mental health from Martin Luther and what inspired him to put this into his new book. Listen to the full episode to hear what Dr. Saunders has to say about what Martin Luther taught 500 years ago and how it applies to our lives today, how we should interpret what the Bible says about mental health, why it’s important for Christians to understand mental health issues, and more.
 
 Questions Covered

• Why is this book important for Lutherans today?
• How did writing this book come about?
• How would you define mental health problems? How are they different from more serious mental illnesses? Why is it important to know the difference? Why is it so hard for people to talk about mental health issues?
•  Why is it important for Christians to know how to have conversations with people experiencing mental health problems?
• After writing this book, what is the biggest piece of advice you would give to Christians dealing with friends and family with mental health problems?

About the Guest
Dr. Stephen Saunders is a clinical psychologist and psychology professor at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He earned his Ph.D. from Northwestern University, and his research interests include mental health services and mental health treatment. Dr. Saunders lives with his wife, Ruth, and has three children.

Get a copy of Reed’s and Andrew’s book – released in August 2023 – on cph.org. 

 Show Notes:

People typically associate Jesus and look for Him in the New Testament. However, we do see instances of Jesus throughout the Old Testament. In The Messianic Message R. Reed Lessing and Andrew E. Steinmann go through each book of the Old Testament and explain each prediction, pattern, and presence of Jesus.

Listen to this podcast episode as Reed and Andrew discuss the process of collaborating on a book, studying the Old Testament for signs of Our Savior, and developing the book together. They provide a preview of how their writing shows readers where they can find Jesus throughout the Old Testament. Readers will learn to study the Old Testament through a Christ-centered lens in The Messianic Message. 

About the Guests

Rev. Dr. R. Reed Lessing serves as professor of theology and ministry at Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota. He is also the university’s director for the Center of Biblical Studies. Reed has authored books in the Concordia Commentary series, including Isaiah 40–55, Isaiah 56–66, Amos, Jonah, and Zechariah. He is also the author of Overcoming Life’s Sorrows: Learning from Jeremiah and Deliver Us: God’s Rescue Story in Exodus.

Dr. Andrew Steinmann is retired from teaching as the distinguished professor of theology and Hebrew at Concordia University Chicago. Steinmann has authored books in the Concordia Commentary series, including 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, Ezra and Nehemiah, Proverbs, and Daniel. He is also the author of From Abraham to Paul: A Biblical Chronology and Is God Listening?

Learn more about his work and get a copy of Dave’s book by visiting cph.org.

Show Notes:
What does teaching the faith at home really mean – and how is it done?

Author Dave Rueter answers these questions – and more – as he sits down with Elizabeth to discuss the purpose of taking faith education outside the classroom as churches and schools prepare for a new school year. Dave digs into the meaning of catechesis, why it’s vital for parents to be involved in their children’s faith journeys, the challenges of teaching the faith in blended and single parent families, and some strategies for lifelong catechesis. 

Questions:

·         What is catechesis anyway? 

·         Why is it important to put energy into building a catechesis culture in our congregations?

·         Why does the church struggle with confirmation?

·         Why is it essential that parents are involved in teaching the faith to their children?

·         Why is a relationship with the family, not just the student, so important in catechesis? 

·         What challenges are present when teaching the faith in blended or single parent homes? How can the church help?

·         What tips/advice can you share about how to increase biblical literacy in students, especially as they undergo confirmation classes?

·         What are some common misconceptions people have about confirmation?

·         What are some strategies for lifespan catechesis?

·         Why does Martin Luther’s Small Catechism hold up so well today, even though it was written in the 1500s?

About the Guest

Dr. David Rueter is the Director of Ministry Engagement at Our Savior Lutheran Ministries working to provide a cohesive approach to ministry across the church, school, and preschool. Dr. Rueter is a commissioned DCE, who has served for more than 25 years in congregations, on faculty at Concordia University Irvine, and on staff at the Pacific Southwest District. He is married to Andrea and the proud father of James and Wesley. For more from Dr. Rueter, visit teachingthefaithathome.org.

Show Notes:
 
In Baptism, you become the human God created you to be. 
 
Throughout the episode, Pastor Davenport shares his experience writing about the Sacrament of Baptism and studying for his doctoral work at Concordia Seminary St. Louis. He and Elizabeth also discuss what a great gift Baptism is, the relationship between the flood and Baptism, the unique qualities of a Baptism, what God accomplishes through our Baptisms, and more. Listen to the full episode now to learn about God’s deeper purpose for Baptism and how Pastor Davenport will challenge readers to ask, “Do we really need Baptism? What makes it special?” 

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. Richard Davenport lives in Fort Smith, Arkansas, with his wife and son. He currently serves as pastor at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church. He received his MDiv from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, in 2009 and his PhD in doctrinal theology, also from Concordia Seminary, in 2013, focusing on a Lutheran theology of hope. You can read more of his writing at sacramentalstreams.wordpress.com.

You can download a free sample of Pastoral Leadership by visiting books.cph.org/pastoral-leadership.    

Show Notes:
 
Pastoral care and pastoral leadership are not separate functions but are in fact one and the same thing. 

In this episode Dr. Hardy dives into how pastoral care and pastoral leadership are not in competition with each other but are actually intertwined and must work together in order for a pastor to be a present leader and active participant in his congregation. Dr. Hardy also speaks about pastors and time management, his favorite biblical leader, advice he offers to new pastors, staying motivated, and the financial responsibility of church leaders. Listen to the full episode now to hear from Dr. Hardy and to get an inside look at his new book, Pastoral Leadership: Shepherding and Caring for God’s People.

Questions Covered

·         What do you hope church workers take away from your book?­

·         Why should the laity read this book, and what do you want them to take away from it?

·         In your introduction, you write that time management is a top struggle for many pastors. You write the proper order for prioritizing a pastor’s time is God, family, and church – in this order. Why in this order and why is time management so challenging for pastors in particular?

·         In the first chapter, you write about several leadership styles from several different biblical figures. Who is your favorite biblical leader and why?

·         What is the one piece of advice that you wish you had received when you first started as a pastor?

·         What is the one piece of advice that you think most seasoned pastors need to hear?

·         Let’s talk about leadership. You write that motivation and purpose are key traits of effective pastoral leaders. Are there any other traits that effective pastoral leaders should have? What advice or encouragement do you have for pastors who are struggling to stay motivated?

·         You write that the financial situation of congregations and nonprofit ministries don’t get enough attention in leadership. Why is this?

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. Jamison J. Hardy is president of the English District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. He has a master of public administration in leadership and management, as well as a doctorate of business administration in leadership and finance. His pastoral leadership has been molded by numerous experiences, including service as an elected member of his local school board, assisting in the merger of two congregations, and serving on the board of directors as secretary for Lutheran Federal Credit Union.

Trevor also goes into the merits, benefits, and positives for church workers to consider when thinking about using AI in practical ways. He warns of pitfalls that pastors should also be aware of and watch for when actively integrating AI into life at church. Listen to the full episode to hear Trevor and Elizabeth discuss the rise of AI, the ethics involved in using AI at church and school, and how AI impacts our Christian worldview. 

Questions Covered

· While it seems like AI has exploded onto the scene in the last 8-10 months, in reality it has been around and in use for much longer. What are some of the ways we’ve seen AI used?

· What are some of the potential benefits for church and school leaders when using AI? What kinds of AI do you see as effective for supporting ministries?

· Is there some merit to using AI as a research aid?

· What are the potential pitfalls of using AI for conducting Bible research?

·  What is some ways AI could help a pastor or commissioned minister be more productive?

· What are some dangers or possibly unforeseen pitfalls to watch out for for pastors and commissioned ministers?

· What kinds of AI do you see as dangerous for our ministries?

·  How can a church use AI - what areas specifically could AI improve? What kinds of AI do you see as effective for supporting ministries?

· In regard to language model AI, how do you recommend churches and school balance the potential efficiencies for both planning assistance and content creation?

·   Recent innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) are raising new questions about how copyright law principles such as authorship, infringement, and fair use will apply to content created or used by AI.

·  Can he speak to the ethics from a church perspective on using AI? I know a lot of artists and writers who have expressed concern about their work being stolen.

· How will AI impact ethics in student work? How will teachers be able to check against AI-generated content?

·  What unique role does congregational life play in a society that's growing more and more digitized/pre-generated/artificial?

· How does AI impact our perceptions of humanity, identity, and creativity? And/or how does our Christian worldview help us speak to these concerns as AI topics continue to grow?

About the Guest

Rev. A. Trevor Sutton is senior pastor at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Haslett, Michigan. Sutton has a BA from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and an MDiv from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. He has published multiple sermons, Bible studies, and devotional books with various Christian publishers. He previously served as managing editor of Relief Journal: A Christian Literary Expression. He speaks at academic conferences, retreats, and congregations. Sutton lives in Lansing, Michigan, with his wife, Elizabeth, and daughter, Grace. 

Questions Covered

-Tell us a bit about LWML and why you love to do what you do.

-Are there a few missions that have stuck out to you in your memory as unique or extra impactful?

-How did you first get involved with LWML?

-What have been some of the highlights of your time as president?

-What does a typical day in the life of a Lutheran Women in Mission president look like?

-If you're talking to young women or women who have not typically been involved in Lutheran Women in Mission, what would you say to them to encourage them to get involved?

-What are your hopes and prayers for LWML as it moves into the future?

-What closing thoughts do you want to leave with our listeners as they think about Lutheran Women in Mission and serving the church and being involved?

About the Guest
Debbie Larson has served as the president of Lutheran Women in Mission since 2019. She will complete her presidential term at the 2023 40th Biennial Convention and will see a new president elected to serve in the next term.  

Show Notes:
Listen to this episode to hear FLAME preview the inspirational story of his life and how God brought him to Lutheranism. 

FLAME discusses his spiritual journey as God brought him through various trials testing his faith, pushing him to further his theological background and find the truth of "extra nos." Host Elizabeth Pittman also discusses the meaning of “extra nos” with FLAME and what it means. He goes into detail about exploring his faith, learning more about Lutheran theology, and his advice for others defending their faith. 

 Questions Covered

• Can you talk a little about the intersection of theology and music? Listening to your songs is like taking a crash course in theology – what comes first, the lyrics, or the melody? How does this process work?
•  Lutheran theology needs to rule the day. Why?
• You share your very personal faith journey in your book. Can you talk about what parts of the book were the most challenging for you to write?
• Your book is titles Extra Nos: Discovering Grace outside Myself. What does this mean?
• In your book, you mentioned that you journaled daily and documented how you were feeling and what you were learning as you explored your faith. Do you still journal? Would you recommend journaling to others, and if so, why?
• In your book, you wrote about your experiences with Calvinism. It sounds like this denomination emphasizes the work that an individual needs to do to be right with God, rather than the Lutheran view that our salvation is a gift from God that we can’t earn on our merits – Jesus earned it for us on the cross. Is this an accurate summary of these key differences? Do you have any tips for Lutherans who have the opportunity to witness (or just speak with) Calvinists?
• It’s been said that misunderstanding or ignoring the two kinds of righteousness will only lead to one of two outcomes: a person will either be filled with pride or despair.
• What was the reaction to people who thought you apostate after becoming Lutheran?
• What advice or encouragement do you have for those who are grappling with some aspect of their faith? Examples – not feeling like God is listening to their prayers; not sure if they’re in the “correct” denomination; unsure of their life direction.
• What is your favorite Bible verse (or passage), and why?
• not sure about this one but including it for consideration We couldn’t help but notice how active you are on social media, including some civil but pointed posts and comments challenging people on issues like baptism and that it’s not just a symbolic act. What advice can you share for defending/advocating for faith on social media?
• What do you hope readers take away from your book?

About the Guest
FLAME IS A GRAMMY®-nominated and Stellar Award–winning hip-hop artist. He is a well-versed leader in the Christian hip-hop scene with a growing list of accolades, including a GRAMMY nomination, multiple Billboard chart-toppers, and several Dove and Stellar award nominations. He was born and raised in the inner city of St. Louis, Missouri. FLAME’s latest releases include four EPs, including Extra Nos (2020), which was his first project as a Lutheran.

Read a sample of Life in Christ by visiting books.cph.org/life-in-christ. Available on cph.org in June.

Show Notes:
Reading the Bible can feel like a disjointed narrative where the pieces don’t always fit together at first. With his upcoming book, Life in Christ, Pastor Filipek pieces the stories in the Bible together to allow readers to see how our lives are grafted into Christ’s story. He also provides context to the historical aspects of the Bible, addresses and alleviates the challenges of understanding the Bible story, and explains how his writing frames readers’ thoughts to discover why the faith isn’t about us. 

Plus, Pastor Filipek gives an inside look at where his inspiration for the idea of the book came from and what encouraged him to put pen to paper. Listen to the full episode for the inside scoop.

Questions Covered 
·  What prompted you to write this book?

·  You begin by talking about the Great Disconnect. What is this? Why is it important that we rediscover that the faith isn’t about us?

·   Why aren’t the books of the Bible arranged chronologically?

·  What is the story of the whole Bible in a nutshell?

·  What makes reading and understanding the overarching story of the Bible so challenging, and how does your book help alleviate this?

·  You write about the dangers of questioning the need to read Scripture, especially the trap of “isn’t this all I need to know?” Why do we need to read Scripture? Do we need to read the whole Bible?

· The Gospels are about Jesus coming to fulfill the law. Why then do we need to read the law books – Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy in particular?

·  Where do we fit into God’s story of salvation for all people in Christ?

·  What does it look like to live in Christ?

·   What is your favorite Bible verse or passage, and why?

·   What tips do you have for people to increase their Bible literacy?

About the Guest
Rev. Dr. Adam T. Filipek has been pastor of Holy Cross Lutheran Church and Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lidgerwood, North Dakota, since October 2016. He serves as an online adjunct professor at Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota, and Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. Pastor Filipek earned a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from Minot State University in North Dakota, a master of divinity from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, and a doctor of ministry from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. His doctoral dissertation, which served as a foundation for his book Life in Christ, was centered around teaching and preaching the unified biblical narrative. Pastor Filipek has been married to Becky since 2006. They have four children: David, Miriam, Jacob, and Bethany.

In her newest book, Lindsay Hausch invites readers to look closely at the experiences that the Israelites had during their 40 years in the wilderness. As we do this, she encourages us to see how the creator is blessing us today with his gifts in our everyday struggles. Listen to the full episode as Lindsay reflects on writing her second book with CPH, recognizing our own wilderness, and seeing the manna that God gives us each and every day.
                                                 
 Questions Covered

· What inspired you to write this Bible study?

· Are there any similarities between this book and your last book, Take Heart: God’s Comfort for Anxious Thoughts?

· The humble sticky note makes a cameo in the book. Tell us about that. How can we use sticky notes to encourage others?

· How does the story of the Israelites’ wandering the wilderness for 40 years relate to us today?

· What are some aspects of the story of the Israelite’s wilderness wandering that stand out to you?

·  As you talked with your community about wilderness seasons in their lives, what did you learn? 

· What are some signs we are entering our own wilderness? What encouragement or advice do you have for those who are walking through a wilderness season?

·  “Sitting atop a question mark” – what does that mean?

· You write about God refreshing us with manna. What does the word “manna” mean? 

·  What is the manna God is giving us today?

·  It can be hard to settle down and focus on clearing a mental space for a Bible study with all the demands on our time. What tips can you share to help us “clear the decks” so we can grow closer to God?

·   What is God’s provision in our lives?

·  I understand you’re a coffee fan. Do you have a preferred brew? Way of preparing it? Special mug or time of day for enjoying coffee?

About the Guest
Lindsay Hausch is an author, speaker, and pastor’s wife. She co-leads a mental health support prayer group at her church and enjoys speaking to women and other church groups about seeking God’s heart in the midst of a fast-paced life. Lindsay is passionate about hope in life's everyday struggles, overcoming anxious thoughts, depression, and difficult emotions. She most enjoys serving alongside her husband, discipling her three children, and getting quiet with God whenever she can. Learn more about Lindsay by visiting her website at lindsayhausch.com.

 Show Notes:
 
It can often be complex to know if students are really understanding the Six Chief Parts of the Christian Doctrine when they go through confirmation. Some students know what all the “right” answers are, but, digging deeper, they aren’t sure how to apply those answers to their lives. Other students may be quietly confused.

Pastor Lee Hopf wrote his new confirmation journal with those students in mind. In this episode, Pastor Hopf talks about how Guided by Truth helps students better understand how Lutheran theology answers their questions about the Bible, Jesus, the Sacraments, and more. He also discusses how culture has impacted how teens see their identities, and why confirmation is important to understanding our purpose. 

 Questions Covered

·         Why do we make confirmation a priority?

·         What are the important questions students will consider in Guided by Truth?

·         Culture is challenging how teens view their identity. Talk about our purpose and identity as children of God. Why is holding onto this identity essential and how can confirmation help?

·         When we know who we are and who God is, how does that impact how we live our daily lives?

·         Tell us about how the confirmation journal came to be? How have your students and families responded to it?

·         How do you see this being used in classes with a high number of students vs. those with only a handful of students?

·         How do you respond to someone who thinks that this is giving the pastor a shortcut to teaching confirmation?

·         What advice do you have for parents if their kids resist going to confirmation class?

·         How can parents explain why confirmation is so important to non-Lutherans?

·         What tips do you have for adults who are well past their confirmation classes to stay engaged/reminded of what they learned in confirmation?

 
 About the Guest

Born and raised in Georgia, Pastor Lee Hopf earned his Master of Divinity from Concordia Seminary St. Louis in 2016. Knowing he wanted to be a pastor since the age of 14, Pastor Hopf has spent most of the last seven years working in youth ministry. He currently serves as Next Gen Pastor at Trinity Klein Lutheran Church in Texas. 

Order Pastor Esget’s new book by visiting books.cph.org/disordered.

Show Notes:

Western culture shows us that human nature has become disordered. God’s Word says something different about us and our purpose, though.

In this episode, Pastor Esget talks about what the Bible says about mankind’s purpose and how our disconnection from the created order causes such great harm in society. He addresses important topics for the Church in his book, the concerning shift away from God’s truth in today’s society, and advice he has for reflecting on these issues in our own ministries. 

 Questions Covered

·        Why is this book important for the church today?

·        What do you anticipate will be the greatest challenges and opportunities to the Church as society's views of human nature continue to shift farther and farther from God's truth?

·        What does the quest for authenticity look like today?

·        The world seems to be going crazy –why is that? How has culture today redefined original sin.

·        In a nutshell, what is disordered and what is our role in helping to restore that order?

·        How can Christians encounter the Scriptures as fully authoritative and inviolable, yet as a living Word that speaks to us today?

·        In chapter one, you talk about how our society is replacing the truth with feelings and how prioritizing our feelings over thought is destabilizing institutions like marriage. The enemy can influence our feelings but sometimes feelings are also a gift from God. How can we discern where our feelings are coming from and if they are harmful or helpful?

·        How does being “curved in on yourself” harm our neighbors?

·        Define postmodernism. What happens when man is disconnected from an external law?

·        How has modern technology/social media become a vehicle for disordered desires?

·        In your book, you mention fasting as a spiritual tool. Can you talk about what circumstances would be appropriate for a layperson to fast and how one would go about fasting? Is it a 24-hour fast? How do you set the duration? How do we know if we are called to fast?

·        How have you seen the issues you address in the book play out in your own ministry, as a pastor and as a Vice President of the LCMS?

·        What advice would you give to Christian parents trying to navigate the changing culture with their households?

·        What advice would you give to Christian leaders trying to navigate the changing culture?

·        What is your greatest hope for your readers?

About the Guest

Rev. Christopher Esget is senior pastor of Immanuel Evangelical-Lutheran Church in Alexandria, Virginia, where he has served since 2001. He previously served Bethel Lutheran Church in Du Quoin, Illinois. He and his wife, Kassie, have one son. Esget is the Fifth Vice President of the LCMS (representing the East-Southeast Region). He holds a bachelor's degree in music from Berklee Col

Find out more about Deb’s new Bible study by visiting books.cph.org/leaning-on-jesus.

Show Notes:
 
Our culture tells us that we have all we need to make it all work, that we can smash our goals and own our own lives. But what happens when we can’t or simply don’t? 

In Deb Burma's latest women's Bible study, readers will see their continuous need for Jesus and will learn to lean on Him. During this episode Deb explains why Christians need each other and how we were created to be in community. She will also provide some of her tips found in her book about finding a Godly mentor, having a “Jesus and me” space, and actively leaning on Jesus.
                                                 
Questions Covered

·         Why do we need to lean on Jesus?

·         When will we know we're leaning on Jesus? Can you share some tips/helpful reminders to actively lean on Jesus?

·         You mentioned finding a Godly mentor and how helpful that can be. What tips do have to find a mentor and what qualities should the mentor have?

·         You wrote about having a Jesus and me space. Can you talk more about this - what is this - physical space, mental/spiritual space? What do we do in this space and why do we need it?

·         Leaning and leading – what does that mean?
 

About the Guest

Deb Burma is a sought-after speaker for women’s conferences, retreats, and ministry events. She is the author of several books, Bible studies, and devotionals, including Be Still and Know: A Study of Rest and Refuge, Joy: A Study of Philippians, Stepping Out, Living a Chocolate Life, and Beautiful Feet. Deb is a follower of Jesus, a pastor’s wife, and a mom. She’s a blogger, a women’s ministry leader, and a self-proclaimed coffee/chocolate connoisseur. Above all, Deb is a grace-filled child of God. To learn more, visit her author page.

During the episode Christa dives into why many have felt rejected by the modern Church and why it’s important to remember who created the Church – God Himself.           Listen to this episode to hear Christa explain why the Church is a blessing, what regular church attendance looks like, how Jesus sees the Church, and more.
               
 Questions Covered

· What are the benefits of studying the history of those who came before us in the faith?

·You remind us that the church is created by God and not by man. How can remembering this inform the way we view and participate in our own congregations?

·Why is the Church referred to as she/female? What’s with the Church/bride analogy?

· What role does the pastor fill in the life of the Church?

· What are some ways that we can honor the office of pastor and support our pastors in our churches? What do you think are some of the challenges pastors and their families face in ministry?

·  Lex orandi, lex credenda. Why do our practices in our local congregation matter so much?

·  For those who don’t know, can you define what church hopping is and why it’s not a good approach to church attendance?

· Your book explains why the Church is both necessary and a blessing in the lives of Christians. Do you have suggestions about how we can lovingly and kindly broach the necessity of Church with people in our lives who have fallen away from attending the Church?

· Speaking of Church attendance, a recent study from Lifeway Research found that most Protestant pastors and churchgoers  define regular church attendance as twice a month or more - wondering what your thoughts are on this. (Article about the survey: https://research.lifeway.com/2023/02/21/most-pastors-churchgoers-see-more-than-monthly-attendance-as-standard/?ecid=PDM265108&bid=1771054513)

· In a nutshell, how does Jesus see the Church?

· What is your favorite part of Church and why?

About the Guest
 
Christa Petzold is a pastor’s wife and stay-at-home mother of four. She holds a master’s degree in theology from Concordia University Irvine and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and Lutheran secondary education from Concordia University Wisconsin. She lives with her family in Bartlett, Illinois, and spends her time homeschooling, teaching theology, writing, reading, and studying Church history. She and her husband, Jonathan, are the authors of Male and Female: Embracing Your Role in God’s Design.

Find out more about Donna’s new Bible study by visiting books.cph.org/meant-for-good.

Show Notes:
Joseph’s life and its portrayal in Genesis is an epic journey through Scripture. In this episode, Donna talks about what listeners and readers can expect to learn from her upcoming Bible study that focuses on the life of Joseph – a phenomenal character laid out in Scripture. Donna also shares her love of pulling history and culture together to help a Bible story make sense in today’s world. Listen to the full episode to hear Donna’s reflections on what she found fascinating in Joseph’s story, how she describes “spiritual dehydration”,  and more.
                                                 
Questions Covered

·   What can readers of your previous studies expect from your newest study?

·  Your latest study is set in ancient Egypt. Your introduction does a great job setting the reader up with historical and Biblical context for both Joseph and Egypt. Ancient Egypt in Joseph’s time sounds fascinating – what were some of the most interesting tidbits about ancient Egypt or Joseph’s life that you uncovered as you prepared to write this study?

·   You wrote in your introduction about Joseph being one of the most Christlike figures in Scripture. Can you elaborate on this point?

·  Joseph found himself in a dark spot when he was sent to Egypt. Even when we’re in the midst of dark circumstances, there can be benefits. What are some of the benefits these situations can teach us? How did that play out for Joseph?

·  You write about experiencing spiritual dehydration (in the context of experiencing seasons of famine that Joseph’s dreams foretold). Can you define what you mean by this? You share concrete warning signs of spiritual hydration – course talk, fatigue, anger, the presence of sin, and poor decision-making; are there any other warning signs to watch out for? And what guidance can you share for those who are experiencing spiritual dehydration?

·  What are some lessons about forgiveness we can take away from Joseph’s story?

·   How do we know if we’re actually forgiven someone? You share four litmus tests for this in (Week 4, Day 2) that are very helpful. Can you talk about these tests a little more? (As a recap, those 4 tests are: general thoughts test, failure test, revenge test, and opportunity to help test.)
 
 About the Guest

A soul-stirring, engaging speaker, author, Bible teacher, and worship leader, Donna Pyle has a passion for studying and teaching God’s Word. Her clear, down-to-earth style encourages women of all ages to wholeheartedly love, serve, and live for Jesus Christ. Since launching Artesian Ministries in 2007, Donna has scratched out over 20 Bible studies and enjoys the incredible privilege of traveling throughout the U.S. and internationally to speak and teach where the Lord opens doors. Donna writes regularly on her blog, Hydrated Living, as she seeks to find beauty in the quiet and sacred in the chaos, treasuring that this path is a holy experience planned by God before the beginning of time. A native, life-long Texan, Donna fuels her incredible journey with the Word, coffee, chocolate, family, friends and worship.

Get a copy of his new book on cph.org.

Show Notes:
 
The world is increasingly uncertain, complex, and competitive. The governance model that many boards and CEOs are currently using may not be best suited for their future. 

In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Senske reveals how the time has come for leadership teams to collectively work together to implement an evolving, adaptive model of governance that is tailored to the current situation of their unique organization.  Laid out in his book, Dr. Senske gives listeners a preview of how he goes through different facets of how nonprofits can make effective changes to craft an intentional relationship between the board and the CEO for organizational success. He also discusses the inspiration for the book, how he came to write it, and his experience on 11 different boards of directors through the years.
               
Questions Covered

-          What has it been like have a new book launched during your retirement?

-          What are some of the most common questions you are getting about your book?

-          What would you say to a consultant who tells an organization that there is one governance model that they should be using?

-          When it comes to choosing the right model, what are the roles and responsibility of every board and CEO, regardless of the model that they're going to use?

-          You talk about appropriately diverse boards for your situation. What do you mean by that?

-          You mentioned three non-negotiables for every board member. Tell us about those.

-          Tell us more about emotional intelligence and what it is when it comes to boards. 

-          Tell us some of the hallmarks of both positive and negative leadership.

-          How can an organization cultivate that servant leadership?

-          Why is it so important that we not only name the elephant in the room, but we deal with it?

-          What does a healthy CEO board relationship look like?

-          What is the competitive advantage that organizations will gain as they master this art of governance?

-          What do we have as a unique advantage in this as Christian organizations?

-          How can you see your book being useful to pastors and church leaders?

About the Guest
 
Dr. Kurt Senske  spent twenty-three years as CEO of Upbring, where he more than quadrupled the size of the agency and steered the once-troubled agency back to financial strength. Dr. Senske is the founder and now principal of CEO-Board Services, a consulting firm that specializes in working with mission-oriented organizational leaders and boards around issues of governance, strategy, organizational structure, succession planning, coaching, and mergers and acquisitions.

Get a copy of his book on cph.org.

Show Notes:

In his new book, Pastor Kennedy brings clarity to 15 of Jesus' most difficult teachings on topics such as money, relationships, and consequences for sin.

During this episode he dives into writing his third book with CPH and how this title differed from the last two. Pastor Kennedy goes over some of Jesus’ words that didn’t make it into the book, and the verses that people seemed to be most curious about. He also previews a few of the actual phrases from Jesus that he deciphers in the book and encourages listeners to continue their learning with the tools provided in Jesus Said What?.
                                             
               
Questions Covered

-        Tell listeners a little bit about how writing your third book differed from the first and the second.

-        What are a few of the verses that might have come in just under the first tier that you didn't have room for in the book? What were some of those verses that people were really curious about?

-        If we don't know those original languages in the Scripture, is that hurting us?

-        When someone asks ‘What translation of the Bible should I be reading?’, what is your advice to them?

-        What is Jesus’ overriding concern that you mention in the book and what steps does He take to try to help us understand?

-        Why is it so important that we look to the fundamental rule of “Scripture interprets Scripture” when we're trying to understand these verses?

-        Let’s at a few of the verses that you cover in the book:

o   “Unforgivable sin”

o   “Make friends by unrighteous wealth”

o   “No forgiveness for the unforgiving”

-        Tell us about the tools that you provide in the book and how they can help readers. 

About the Guest

Pastor Christopher Kennedy is a writer, podcaster, and pastor. He is also author of Equipped: The Armor of God for Everyday Struggles and Grace under Pressure: Responding Faithfully to Stress. He serves a large congregation in San Antonio, Texas. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communication, a master’s degree in theology, and a doctorate in ministry. Chris and his wife are parents of four.

The new God, I Need to Talk to You books will be available on cph.org in March 2023. 

Show Notes:

Talking with your children about the hard things in life is not always easy. In this episode, CPH editor Peggy Kuethe talks about the resources that the God, I Need to Talk to You books provide to parents and families when discussing difficult topics such as anger, greed, bullying, feeling sad, and more. Peggy and Elizabeth also preview the new editions coming out in March 2023 that will cover timely topics including screen time, violence, worrying, and loving others.
               
 Questions Covered

·        These new releases cover hard topics to talk about - fear, patience, loving others, screen time, violence, and worrying. What are some signs that children are struggling with these?

·        What are some age-appropriate conversation starters to discuss these topics with the young ones?

·        How do you teach and encourage children to pray?

·        How do you help children understand what God is?

·        These books provide an excellent framework for addressing these weighty topics - think about their behavior, pray about it, and look to the Scripture. Can you discuss a little how parents and others charged with caring for children (relatives, teachers, etc.)  can use this framework with children for any difficult topic?
 
 About the Guest

Peggy Kuethe is Senior Editor of Children & Family Resources at Concordia Publishing House. 

Dr. Das wrote the Concordia Commentary edition on the book of Galatians, which is available on the CPH website. He also did a series on Galatians on the CPH YouTube channel that you can watch here. 

Show Notes:

The central issue in Galatians can be seen as a matter of identity. As the author of the letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul speaks of embodying Christ in his own life and in the lives of the Galatians. In this episode Dr. Das shares his knowledge into this prevalent theme that is present throughout Galatians and talks about how it relates to our lives as Christians living in the modern world. Dr. Das also analyzes several concepts in Paul’s writing, dissects Martin Luther’s commentary on Galatians, and more in this episode.

Learn more about Dr. Das: http://andrewdas.net/                           
Read Dr. Das’s bio on cph.org: https://www.cph.org/m-124-a-andrew-das                                                           
Questions Covered

• Who were the Galatians? 
• What is “the Gospel” Paul preached versus the “different gospel” to which the Galatians turned?
•  Galatians is loaded with vital issues for the Christian faith. What particular issues plagued the church in Galatia, and are there equivalent issues plaguing the church today? 
• Luther's commentary on the Galatians is usually considered a classic, why is that? 
• Are we saved through faith alone (“Abraham believed … and it was credited as righteousness”) or through faith plus doing “works of the Law”? 
• Which came first, the Law or the Gospel promise?  
• What does it mean for Paul and for us to say “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Gal 2:20)? 
• What does Paul mean when he says “there is neither male nor female” but those baptized into Christ “are all one”? 
• What are “the works of the flesh” and “the works of the Spirit” (Galatians 5)? 

 About the Guest

Considered among the leading Pauline theorists of the last century, Dr. A. Andrew Das is the Donald W. and Betty J. Buik Chair and Professor of Religious Studies at Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, Illinois. He teaches in biblical studies, early Christianity, and Second Temple Judaism. Dr. Das was an invited member of the Society of Biblical Literature’s Paul and Scripture Seminar and has presented at the Society of Biblical Literature; the African Society of Biblical Scholars; the Chicago Society of Biblical Research; the international Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas, of which he is an elected member; and the Evangelical Theological Society. He is also a member of the Catholic Biblical Association of America and serves on the Holman Christian Standard Bible revision committee. Dr. Das is a prolific writer, having authored several books and articles, including his major academic commentary on Galatians (CPH 2014). Dr. Das received his Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, and did his graduate work at Yale University, Duke Universit

In order for any church to best administer sacraments and care for its members, all congregations must take a thoughtful approach to structural details in order to carry out its goals for ministry and mission. Dr. David Peter dives into this idea and why he chose this topic as the main theme in his new book in this episode. While Church congregations are more than just an organization, it is vital to think of it as both a part of the body of Christ and an organization that requires intentional leadership and purposeful guidance in organizational structure. 
 
 David’s Bio: https://www.csl.edu/directory/david-peter/                                             
               
Questions Covered

·        Why do we need organization in the church?

·        Why do you think the need for organization often overlooked?

·        What theological dynamics are at work in parish organization?

·        What guidance did CFW Walther have about congregational organization? What can we take away from his guidance today?

·        You write that organizing your church is not optional. What are the models of organization that are common today, and how can congregations organize for the better?

·        How will a church know if it's selected the right organizing model?

·        From a laity perspective - what tips/advice do you have for members to get involved in the church and why would you encourage congregants to get involved in opportunities to help run the church?

·        How has the COVID experience changed the ways in which church boards function?

·        What advice do you have for congregational board(s)/members?

·        Can you talk about some common mistakes you see church leaders make and how to overcome them?

About the Guest

Dr. David J. Peter has spent twenty-three years in the parish, experiencing the realities of pastoral ministry and researching congregational dynamics. As a professor of practical theology and the dean of faculty at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, he regularly leads courses for practicing pastors. He has also gained many insights from students about the realities of administration and leadership in congregations.

Reed has written two Concordia Commentaries on the book of Isaiah, including the volume on Isaiah 40 -55 and Isaiah 56- 66.

Show Notes:

Prophet. Husband. Jerusalem native. Martyr.

In this episode, author Reed Lessing and host Elizabeth Pittman discuss who Isaiah was as a figure in the Bible. They also investigate the hows and whys of the writing in Isaiah and the lasting impact it takes on the rest of the Bible, especially within the content of the New Testament.  Plus, the duo examines specific verses that will be used over the next several weeks in the Lutheran church’s lectionaries.

Reed’s Bio: www.cph.org/m-137-r-reed-lessing.aspx         
Reed’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/lessingr   
Reed’s Instagram: @lessingr                                     
               
 
 Questions Covered

·        Who was Isaiah?  

·        Was Isaiah’s ministry “successful”? 

·        Why is there a big change of focus in Isaiah 40-66 (compared to Isaiah 1-39)? 

·        Who is “the Servant of Yahweh”? Is the “Servant” Israel, or Jesus Christ, or both? 

·        What are the distinctive prophecies about the “Servant”/Jesus Christ in these chapters: Isaiah 42, Isaiah 49, Isaiah 50, Isaiah 53, and Isaiah 61? 

·        Does Isaiah say that salvation is only for Israel, or also for Gentiles? 

·        Does Isaiah prophesy about the church? 

·        What does Isaiah say about eternity?

About the Guest

Rev. Dr. R. Reed Lessing serves as Professor of Theology and Ministry at Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota. Previously he was Senior Pastor at Saint Michael Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and before that, Professor of Exegetical Theology and Director of the Graduate School at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and received the B.A. in pre-seminary studies from St. John’s College, Winfield, Kansas, in 1981. He earned his M.Div. (1985), S.T.M. (1989), and Ph.D. (2001) degrees from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was ordained into the office of the holy ministry on June 29, 1986. From 1986 to 1999, he served pastorates in West Monroe, Louisiana, and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

Deb has written several books for Concordia Publishing House, including Be Still & Know: A Study of Rest and Refuge and Joy: A Study of Philippians. She also has a new Bible study coming out in May 2023 titled Leaning on Jesus: A Study of God’s Strength. Find her books on the CPH website here.

                 
Show Notes:

Advent is a time of preparation and expectation for Christians to reflect on the fact that we are never alone. The same can be said about preparing for the New Year and everything that leads to it. In this episode, Deb dives into the experience of being overwhelmed and distracted throughout the holiday season and how we can lean in to God’s strength to relax our anxieties. 

Deb also answers the question – Can there be space for both reflecting on Jesus this season as well as the hustle and bustle of worldly commitments? Listen now to hear her insight into this timely topic and more.
 
 Deb’s website: debburma.com
Deb’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/deb.burma              
Deb’s Instagram: @debburma
 
 

About the Guest
 
Deb Burma is a sought-after Christian speaker for women’s conferences, retreats, and ministry events. Her assortment of books and devotionals include best-selling Bible studies, Be Still & Know: A Study of Rest and Refuge, JOY: A Study of Philippians and Living a Chocolate Life, along with Beautiful Feet, Stepping Out, and more. Deb is a follower of Jesus, a pastor’s wife, and a mom. She’s a blogger, a women’s ministry leader, and a self-proclaimed coffee/chocolate connoisseur. Above all, she is a grace-filled child of God.

Learn more about Tobin by visiting www.cune.edu.         

 Show Notes:

We are all seeing disagreements and disputes play out in the news and on social media today as political tensions rise and the gap between groups widens. Professor Tobin Beck from Concordia University Nebraska talks about his process for critical thinking when reflecting on the cultural issues we face today, so that we can have healthier and more productive conversations. As a journalist with more than 30 years of experience, he shares what he has learned from different roles in the industry and what he now is able to share with his students in the classroom. 

 Learn more about Tobin: www.cune.edu/today/directory/people/tobin-beck.       
                

Questions Covered

·        What are you experiencing – and do you have any thoughts – on the divisiveness we are seeing today and how it’s impacting students?

·        Tell us about the difference between political commentary and news and ethics. What should be looking at as we filter information?

·        Have you had any students who have tried your process and it worked?

·        When we find ourselves in an emotional situation or a kneejerk reaction coming on, how can we catch ourselves?

·        How do you get to a place where you can have online dialogue in a respectful way? Are there benefits?

·        What encouragements do you have for listeners as midterm elections approach and as family holidays draw near where you may have conversations with people who hold different opinions than your own?
 

About the Guest

Tobin Beck teaches journalism and global issues classes at Concordia University Nebraska. He is a journalist with more than 30 years of experience, including 13 years of experience as a global news service writer-editor-senior manager in Washington, D.C. He has written and edited for newspapers, radio, television, the web, and magazines. He taught at American University in Washington, D.C., and at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Tobin grew up in Seward, where his father, Theodore, taught music at Concordia. 

It is evident that American Christianity’s focus has turned from Christ to Christian. 

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller explains what he means by this statement in this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast. The source of our faith is Jesus, but many have confused this along the way. Instead, modern American Christians think that Jesus starts our faith but it us up to us to continue it through good works. Pastor Wolfmueller shares his thoughts on how American Christians can bring their focus back to Jesus and recognize the invitation to serve Him found in His Word. 

 Wolfmueller's website: https://wolfmueller.co/                             
Wolfmueller's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wolfmueller         
Wolfmueller's Twitter: https://twitter.com/bwolfmueller             
 

Questions Covered

·        You write that American Christianity softens the Bible’s teaching on sin. What does that look like?

·        In American Christianity, the focus has moved from Christ to the Christian. Why is it essential that we keep the Cross/Christ at the center of our theology?

·        In American Christianity, the spiritual life is on the inside. What does this mean?  What is the better posture?  

·        What about good works? How does American Christianity view them? How does God view them?

·        “Christianity is not a religion, it’s a relationship.” What is this cliché supposed to mean and what are the problems with relationship theology?

·        How are we surprised by the Gospel?

·        What is the alternative to American Christianity?

About the Guest

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller is the pastor at St. Paul and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Churches in Austin, TX.  Prior to that he was the pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Aurora, CO since 2005.

He is the co-host of Table Talk Radio, the world’s most famous Lutheran theological game show. Bryan has a new hobby every day, but he always comes back to reading about Law and Gospel. He lives in Round Rock, TX with his wife Keri and four children.

Jesus never fails us. He claims us as His own. 

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller offers this comfort to all Christians in this episode of The CPH Podcast. Bryan provides his thoughts on how believers can defend themselves against poor theological teachings, and what dangers there are in modern American teachings. Truth is our number one tool, and we must use it to combat errors in American Christianity and when trying to understand what God says in His Word.
 
 Learn more about Bryan: https://wolfmueller.co/                             
Bryan’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wolfmueller         
Bryan’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/bwolfmueller             
 

Questions Covered

·        How have Americans gone theologically nose-blind? How can we combat this?

·        What are the four movements that lead to error in American Christianity?

·        What does it mean to understand that God speaks in His Word and His speaking is in His Word?

About the Guest

Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller is the pastor at St. Paul and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Churches in Austin, TX.  Prior to that he was the pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Aurora, CO since 2005.

He is the co-host of Table Talk Radio, the world’s most famous Lutheran theological game show. Bryan has a new hobby every day, but he always comes back to reading about Law and Gospel. He lives in Round Rock, TX with his wife Keri and four children.

Check out Sutton’s book, Why Should I Trust the Bible? at cph.org. Visit Sutton’s website at https://atrevorsutton.com/ and check out his other books at https://www.cph.org/m-173-a-trevor-sutton.aspx#products.

 Show Notes:

Many people have questioned the Bible and proclaimed that “The Bible is racist,” or, “The Bible has too many errors and edits,” or, “The Bible is merely a mythological story like Homer’s Odyssey.” As Christians, we know all these things to be false. Sutton dives into these questions and provides evidence for how we can be sure that the Bible is true and trustworthy.

Learn answers to many common attacks of Scripture and be prepared to defend your faith using solid evidence. You’ll see that when all other texts fall, the Bible still stands—as completely, undeniably trustworthy.

Questions Covered:

·        Why can we trust the Bible?

·        Why is it important that Jesus is the foundation of our trust in the Bible?

·        What are some of the elements that make up the body of evidence for why we can trust in the Bible?

·        The creation account in the Bible is not myth. How does Scripture make this clear?

·        What do you say to some who says, “the Bible is so full of errors and human edits that it can’t be trusted.”

·        Why is it important to recognize the work of the Holy Spirit in writing the Bible?

·        What are some arguments people have used to discredit the history contained in the Bible? How does the Bible prove these arguments incorrect?

·        What are some common “discrepancies” found in the Gospels and how can we refute them?

·        Far from being old and obsolete, the Bible is real and relevant to us today. What are some of the ways it is relevant to our contemporary culture?

·        Some people will claim that translations of the Bible are vastly different from the original texts. How do you respond to those claims?

·        How does the statement “all religions are essentially about being a good person” misrepresent the message of Scripture?

·        Why is it outrageous by modern standards to claim that the Bible is right while other holy texts are wrong?

About the Guest:

Rev. A. Trevor Sutton is senior pastor at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Haslett, MI. He is currently a graduate student in Writing and Rhetoric at Michigan State University. Sutton has a BA from Concordia University in Ann Arbor, MI, and an MDiv from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO. Sutton’s work has appeared in Faith & Leadership (Duke Divinity School), The Cresset (Valparaiso University), and Concordia Journal (Concordia Seminary). He has published multiple sermons, Bible studies, and devotional books with various Christian publishers. He previously served as managing editor of Relief Journal: A Christian Literary Expression. He speaks at academic conferences, retreats, and congregations. Sutton lives in Lansing, MI, with his wife, Elizabeth, and daughter, Grace. He enjoys cycling, hiking, fly-fishing, and impromptu dance parties with his daughter.

Check out more church resources for pastors and laypeople at cph.org. 

 Show Notes:

There is a lot to learn about the services included in the Lutheran Service Book. Expert Rev. Dr. Paul Grime discusses the Lutheran Service Book: Companion to the Services and why it is such a helpful resource to pastors and church members. He clears up some misconceptions around the words “services” and liturgy,” and jumps into the biblical basis for the order of service that we have today. 

The Lord’s Day is sacred and should be honored as such, connecting back to when Jesus sat with His disciples and broke bread with them. Teaching and dining are practices that date back to the Old Testament, yet they are still important practices in our church today.

Questions Covered:

·         Book is called Companion to the Services and not Companion to the Liturgy. Why? What’s the difference between “liturgy” and “service(s)”?

·         Where do we get the Divine Service?

·         What is the oldest part of the Divine Service? What is the newest part?

·         When was it more or less fixed as we know it?

·         Is the Divine Service still changing?

·         What kind of considerations are there before we add or remove things?

·         What is distinctly Lutheran about the Divine Service?

·         How is the Lutheran service similar to the mass or services in other denominations?

·         What was Martin Luther’s view of the Roman Mass as he knew it? What did he change? And more importantly, why did he change things?

·         Beyond the obvious, what do we do in the Divine Service? Is our role passive or active? Do we offer or give anything? Do we simply receive?
 
 

About the Guest:

Paul Grime is the dean of the chapel and a professor at Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne, teaching primarily in the area of worship and homiletics. From 1996 to 2007, he served as executive director for the LCMS Commission on Worship at the church body’s headquarters in St. Louis. In that position, he was project director for both Hymnal Supplement ‘98 and Lutheran Service Book. Prior to that, he served eight years as senior pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, West Allis, Wisconsin, a suburb of Milwaukee. Grime has music degrees in church music and organ performance from Valparaiso University (BMus) and the College-Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati (MMus). His theology degrees are from Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne (MDiv, STM) and Marquette University (PhD).

Order the activity kit Wise Men Seek the Savior: Family Advent Activity Kit by visiting cph.org. Check out the Playmobil Three Wise Kings as a supplement to the activity kit.

 Show Notes:

Christmas is quickly approaching! Elena Fox, an elementary teacher, offers a creative Christian alternative to other secular Christmas products. Follow the Wise Men as they make their way to Jesus and travel all over your home. Fox shares her experience using this kit in her classroom, as well as shares the excitement that it brings to her students and the faculty. 

Not the creative type? Not a problem. In this episode, Fox will also share her tips and tricks for making this a success this Christmas. Many of the suggestions are also featured in the kit, making it super user-friendly and hassle-free.

Questions Covered:

·         What lead you to create Wise Men Seek the Savior?

·         How did you discover that there was a need for this in our homes and classrooms?

·         What makes this kit different from other products (such as Elf on the Shelf)?

·         As our families are decorating for Christmas, what do you hope they remember?

·         How have you used this in your classroom?

·         Why do you call this a treasure hunt? What comes in the kit?

·         Whare tips do you have for parents who will be using this in their homes?

·         What did you learn about the Magi that may have surprised you?

About the Guest:

Elena Fox is a commissioned teacher for the LCMS at Christ Lutheran School in Phoenix, AZ.

Emily’s upcoming book, Together We Believe: A Study of the Apostles' Creed is set to release in December 2022. Visit cph.org to learn more (preview available for download soon). 

 Show Notes:

Why is it important for Christians to understand what others believe?

Emily Belvery dives into her experience as a mission worker, and why she found it vital to learn the Apostles' Creed in another language while serving the Church in this way. She also gives an inside look at her upcoming Bible study, Together We Believe, and explains it’s unique take on studying the Apostles' Creed as a way to deepen our faith in Jesus and our understanding of the triune God. Through her new work, Emily hopes to better equip Christians to talk with each other about beliefs in different cultural settings and to widen our international perspective.

Learn more about Emily: https://www.cph.org/m-397-emily-belvery.aspx             
Emily’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emily.barz.9         
 
 

Questions Covered

·         What was your experience in Taiwan like?

·         Why was it important to you that you learned the Creed in Mandarin?

·         Tell us about your two aims in writing this study.

·         What benefit is there in studying the Apostles' Creed?

·         What does Article 1 tell us about God?

·         What does the use of “Father” show us about God’s love? How have you seen the father-figure stereotype differ between cultures?

·         What did your students in Taiwan think about the concept of Christian prayer?

·         In Article 2, we are told of reasons that Jesus came. What are these reasons?
 
 

About the Guest

After graduating from Concordia Nebraska Emily served as a mission partner in Asia with Mission of Christ Network (MCN) for six years. Since returning to the US in 2020, she is grateful for the opportunity to continue partnering in Gospel proclamation work and to stay a part of the MCN family. 

Emily works to connect churches and individuals with needs in the mission field through recruitment, communications, and resource development. She and her husband, Jacob, live in Nebraska where he is an English teacher. They welcomed their first child, a daughter named Nora, in May 2021. In her free time, Emily enjoys reading and writing, biking, watching college basketball, drinking coffee, and having deep conversations.

To preview Andy’s book (released November 2022) visit books.cph.org/10-questions. 

 Show Notes:

Reading Scripture by yourself can be intimidating. Andy Jones has come up with 10 questions to use to improve your Bible-reading skills. 

Listen as Andy walks through a preview of the questions he has created as tools to use as you meditate on Biblical verses. He also gives an in-depth view of how he realized he wanted to help readers deepen their understanding of Scripture and why he picked 10 questions in total. Andy concludes with explaining how he believes Church leaders will be able to use this book in their teaching.
 
 Andy’s website: https://www.patreon.com/c3pojones
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/c3pojones
Instagram: @andyamca

Questions Covered:

·         What led you to realize that you wanted to deep your understanding of Scripture?

·         How will this book enrich the lives of everyday Christians?

·         A lot of people are really insecure about reading the Bible. How will this book help them?

·         Why did you pick these ten questions, and is their order significant?

·         Let’s talk about 3 of the questions: 

                 Who are you, Lord?
                 How did we get here?
                 Where have I heard this before?

·         Why should we ask, “what questions remain?”

·         How do you think this book will benefit Church leaders? (Pastors, DCEs, teachers, etc.)

·         How could you see Church leaders using this book in their teaching?

About the Guest:

Rev. Andrew R. Jones lives in the Bay Area of California where he enjoys writing, hiking, and adventures with his wife, Stephanie. He has served the church on three continents in varying roles including campus ministry, international mission work, professor of preaching, and parish pastor. His writings speak to the importance of spiritual disciplines in the midst of a hectic world. His book, Ten Questions to Ask Every Time You Read the Bible will be released in November 2022. You can find more of his writing by visiting patreon.com/c3pojones. 

Order Heidi’s newest book, Emotions & the Gospel: Created for Connection by visiting cph.org. 

Show Notes:

God’s Word is filled with emotion and contains practical examples from Our Savior as he perfectly managed his own emotions in healthy ways. 

Heidi Goehmann discusses practical pieces to understanding and dealing with our emotions and offers a few strategies for doing so, found in her recent book Emotions & the Gospel. She also covers what we can learn from others about processing emotions, especially children. 

Listen to all three of Heidi’s recent episodes for more of her insight into understanding emotions on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. 

Heidi’s website: heidigoehmann.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidigoehmannwrites
Instagram: @heidigoehmann
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/HeidiGoehmannWrites                       

Questions Covered

·        What have you learned from kids about emotions?

·        What are a few of the tools we can use to process our emotions? What does the Bible have to teach us about these?

·        What are common defense mechanisms we might throw up to avoid processing our emotions?

About the Guest

Heidi Goehmann is a licensed clinical social worker and mental health provider, deaconess, writer, speaker, wife, mom, and advocate. She can always be found at heidigoehmann.com advocating and providing resources for mental health and genuine relationship. Heidi loves her family, sticky notes, Jesus, adventure, Star Wars, Star Trek, and new ideas.... not necessarily in that order. 

Besides Emotions & the Gospel, Heidi has also published Altogether Beautiful: A Study of the Songs of Songs and Finding Hope: From Brokenness to Restoration with Concordia Publishing House. 

Order her book Emotions & the Gospel: Created for Connection by visiting cph.org. 

 Show Notes:

While we experience imperfect emotions every day, Jesus perfectly experienced emotions.

Heidi speaks about common misconceptions, or partial truths, many believers have when considering their emotions. She explains why experiencing emotions matter, and how they are a gift from God not to be turned away from or scorned. Heidi also stresses the importance of staying in God’s Word when going through partial truths and reflecting on God being our Savior from our imperfect emotional experiences, rather than just a manager. 

Keep up with Heidi’s episodes for more insight found newest her book, Emotions & the Gospel.  

Heidi’s website: heidigoehmann.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidigoehmannwrites
Instagram: @heidigoehmann
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/HeidiGoehmannWrites                      

Questions Covered

·         What are common misconceptions about emotions?

·         What are the benefits to removing judgement from our view of emotions?

·         What happens when we try to control our emotions?

About the Guest

Heidi Goehmann is a licensed clinical social worker and mental health provider, deaconess, writer, speaker, wife, mom, and advocate. She can always be found at heidigoehmann.com advocating and providing resources for mental health and genuine relationship. Heidi loves her family, sticky notes, Jesus, adventure, Star Wars, Star Trek, and new ideas.... not necessarily in that order. 

Besides Emotions & the Gospel, Heidi has also published Altogether Beautiful: A Study of the Songs of Songs and Finding Hope: From Brokenness to Restoration with Concordia Publishing House.