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Are Lutherans Catholic?

Release Date: 05/29/2025

Thinking Fellows

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints regularly presents itself as a Christian church. In this episode, the Thinking Fellows examine what Mormons get wrong about Christianity and how LDS doctrine leads its followers to worship a false god. Mormonism is not Christian; it is a fabricated religion built on teachings that contradict the Gospel and the historic faith. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: More from the hosts:

Why is Luther's Bondage of the Will Ignored?

Thinking Fellows

In this live episode of the Thinking Fellows, Caleb, Scott, Steve, and Adam discuss why Martin Luther’s The Bondage of the Will is one of the most important yet most overlooked works of the Reformation. They explore why Luther’s debate with Erasmus still matters today and how ignoring this work can lead to confusion about human will, divine grace, and the Gospel itself. Rather than being a cold philosophical text, The Bondage of the Willreveals the comfort of knowing that salvation depends entirely on God’s decision and not our effort. Show Notes: What’s New...

The Bondage of the Will: A Simple Overview

Thinking Fellows

What led Martin Luther to write The Bondage of the Will? This podcast explores the historical background and central message of one of Luther’s most significant works. Written as a response to Erasmus, Luther’s book defends the biblical truth that salvation is not the result of human choice or effort but rests entirely on God’s gracious will. The Bondage of the Will delivers a message of profound comfort. God Himself has acted to save sinners through His Son, Jesus Christ, who takes away our sins and gives us eternal life. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: ...

Why Do Christians Sing Hymns? | Dr. Steve Mueller, Concordia University Irvine

Thinking Fellows

Singing is one of the most recognizable parts of Christian worship. But why do Christians sing hymns? Where did hymns come from? And why should the church continue to sing them? Caleb and Scott Keith are joined by Dr. Steve Mueller from Concordia University Irvine to answer these questions. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: More from the hosts:

Differences Between Evangelicals and Lutherans

Thinking Fellows

Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, Scott Keith, and Bruce Hillman explore the linguistic challenges faced by individuals transitioning from evangelical backgrounds to Lutheranism. They discuss the distinctions between Christian terms, the role of tradition in defining these terms, and the importance of confessional documents in maintaining doctrinal clarity. The Fellows also touch on cultural and institutional differences between American evangelicals and Lutherans. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: More from the hosts:

The Assassination of Charlie Kirk: A Brief Christian Perspective

Thinking Fellows

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

What Christians Should Know About Islam

Thinking Fellows

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the hosts engage in a comprehensive discussion about Islam, exploring its theology, the role of Muhammad, the authorship of the Quran, and the differences between Islamic and Christian beliefs. Caleb, Scott, and Bruce take turns asking Adam questions that Christians may or should have about Islam. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: More from the hosts:

The Pivotal Influence of the Book of Romans on the Reformation

Thinking Fellows

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the Fellows discuss the Book of Romans, exploring its pivotal role in the Reformation, its didactic nature, and the genius of Paul's argumentation. The episode focuses on how Romans provides comfort and assurance to believers, emphasizing the personal nature of salvation and the continuity of God's promises throughout the text. The conversation underscores the importance of Romans in understanding Christian doctrine and its relevance for contemporary believers. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: More from the...

Freedom of the Christian

Thinking Fellows

Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, Scott Keith, and Bruce Hillman delve into Martin Luther's, 'The Freedom of a Christian.' They explore the historical context of the Reformation, particularly the year 1520, and discuss the significance of Luther's teachings on justification by faith, the authority of scripture (Sola Scriptura), and the relationship between faith and good works. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: More from the hosts:

Augustine of Hippo

Thinking Fellows

This episode is a conversation about the life and influence of Augustine of Hippo. The Fellows cover Augustine's historical context, his theological contributions, particularly regarding original sin and the nature of love, and his lasting impact on both Protestant and Catholic traditions. The Fellows also delve into the relationship between Augustine and Martin Luther, examining how Augustine's ideas shaped the Reformation and continue to influence modern theology, particularly in the understanding of grace. Show Notes: What’s New from 1517: More from the...

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In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the hosts explore the complexities of Lutheran identity, particularly in relation to Catholicism. They discuss the meanings of 'Catholic' in both small and large contexts. What are the historical implications and the ongoing challenges of using the word "catholic?" The fellows discuss the effectiveness and downfalls of ecumenical movements that rally around small c catholic identity and critique how they can overlook core theological differences, particularly regarding the gospel.

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