The Schlie Brothers: Digging Deeper Than the Clichés Round 2
Christendom and the World
They’re back. The Schlie twins return for Round 2—diving even deeper into the clichés shaping modern ministry. In this week’s episode of Christendom and the World, they unpack the risks of relying on familiar preaching formulas, like “Law then Gospel,” and explore how good theology can lose its weight when it becomes routine. From performative pulpits to the fear of failure in ministry, this conversation is a challenge to preach with clarity, conviction, and real faithfulness. The Didymus Podcast:
info_outline
The Schlie Brothers: Digging Deeper Than the Clichés
Christendom and the World
In this episode of Christendom and the World, we’re joined by twin brothers and pastors Joseph and Jesse Schlie for a thoughtful conversation on the rise of Christian clichés and what they reveal about the modern church. Together, they reflect on the pastoral call to speak clearly, confront sin, and preach Christ with conviction. From shallow phrases to deep theology, the Schlie pastors urge both pastors and hearers to trade feel-good slogans for faithful doctrine — and to rediscover the power of true, confessional preaching. The Didymus Podcast:
info_outline
Understanding God's True Personality Through Scripture
Christendom and the World
In this week’s episode of Christendom and the World, we explore how character development in storytelling helps us better understand God’s own character. The conversation moves beyond simply knowing God’s attributes to the importance of personal relationship and revelation through Scripture. We also reflect on the mystery of God's nature, how His attributes are revealed through creation, and why the fear of the Lord is the foundation of true wisdom. On the Line: Spotify: Apple Podcasts: YouTube:
info_outline
Grace Otten: A Lutheran Life, Pt. 2 — Standing Firm in the Faith
Christendom and the World
In the second half of this conversation, Pastor Andrew Preus continues his interview with Grace Otten as she reflects on her adult life, her work with Lutheran News, and the shifting landscape of the church in the 1960s and beyond. Grace shares candid memories of the responsibilities she carried, the relationships that shaped her journey, and the convictions that sustained her through seasons of upheaval. From practical matters like managing a household and publishing a newspaper, to navigating theological conflicts and personal trials, Grace offers a thoughtful, firsthand glimpse into a life...
info_outline
Grace Otten: A Lutheran Life, Pt. 1 – The Early Years
Christendom and the World
In this week’s episode of Christendom and the World, we sit down with Grace Otten to hear the first part of her story — a candid look at her early years growing up Lutheran. From her childhood experiences with faith and family to the subtle shaping forces of church life, Grace shares how her understanding of spiritual authority began to take root. She also reflects on how she met her husband, and the role faith played in shaping their relationship from the very beginning. It’s a conversation about memory, formation, and the quiet ways influence takes hold.
info_outline
Wolves, Shepherds, and Soft Power: Who Leads the Flock?
Christendom and the World
In this week’s episode of Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus takes a hard look at the state of leadership in today’s church. As cultural narratives continue to reshape how people view authority, masculinity, and order, many Christians are left wondering: who is truly leading the flock? Pastor Preus unpacks the influence of the Red Pill movement, the feminization of church culture, and the growing reliance on emotional appeal and soft power within both liberal and evangelical circles. He explores the consequences of abandoning normative, biblical authority and considers why so...
info_outline
Pastor James Preus: Rights, Duties, and the Christian Conscience
Christendom and the World
In this episode of Christendom and the Word, Pastor James Preus joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on Christian political engagement. We explore how a biblical understanding of natural law, civil duty, and conscience informs everything from our view of rights to our role in society. Is libertarianism compatible with a Christian worldview? What does Romans 13 really mean for believers today? Pastor Preus challenges us to think clearly, live faithfully, and obey for conscience’ sake—not just for political gain. Whether you're wrestling with political philosophy, the limits of...
info_outline
Rev. Dr. Daniel N. Harmelink: Navigating Church Decisions and Division
Christendom and the World
This episode of Christendom and the World Pastor Andrew Preus talks with Rev. Dr. Daniel N. Harmelink, tracing his vocational journey from parish ministry in California to his current work at the Concordia Historical Institute in St. Louis. Pastor Harmelink reflects on the significance of preserving the history of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, particularly through times of crisis and change. The discussion explores the theological implications of church conventions, the authority of scripture, and the enduring relevance of law and gospel. With a focus on mission, identity,...
info_outline
Faith, Hope, and Love: Debating Justification and Good Works
Christendom and the World
This week on Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus responds to the video "Catholic vs Protestant: Is Faith Greater Than Love?" by The Logos Project, which critiques our original episode on “Faith, Hope, and Love.” Pastor Preus delves deeper into the theological virtues, emphasizing love as the greatest virtue flowing from true faith. He contrasts Lutheran and Roman Catholic views on justification, clarifying the relationship between faith and works, and discussing the distinctions between fulfillment and satisfaction in the law. The episode also explores the mystical union with...
info_outline
The Otten Family Journey: Belief, Boldness, and Brotherhood
Christendom and the World
In this episode of Christendom and the World, Reverend Walter Otten shares the rich history of the Otten family, their immigration to America, and their deep-rooted commitment to Lutheran orthodoxy. He discusses the theological influences that shaped his upbringing, his education in Bronxville, and the friendships that formed during his youth. The conversation also delves into the challenges faced in pastoral life, particularly in combating liberal theology, and highlights the significance of Lutheran hymnody in their faith. Otten reflects on his personal life, including his marriage and...
info_outlineIn this episode of Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus sits down with his father, Pastor Rolf Preus, for a candid and personal conversation about their journey through Lutheranism, focusing on their transition from the Missouri Synod to the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS). Together, they explore the theological debates surrounding church authority, the doctrine of the ministry, and the broader implications of these disputes on their faith and church community. The discussion delves into the challenges of maintaining unity among Christians, the necessity of a biblical foundation for church governance, and the ways in which theological divisions shape personal and ecclesiastical life. Ultimately, the episode highlights the enduring importance of doctrinal clarity, faithful church practice, and the pursuit of true Christian unity grounded in Scripture.