Explore every episode of the podcast Thinking Fellows
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| The Worst Phrases Christians Use | 10 Dec 2025 | 01:00:19 | |
In this fun episode, the Thinking Fellows take turns sharing some of their least-favorite phrases or platitudes that Christians use. They discuss how these platitudes can discourage fellow believers and how they often function as a way to fill silence while avoiding the real vocational needs of our neighbors. Show Notes: What's New from 1517:
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| Year End Announcement from 1517 | 02 Dec 2025 | 00:01:36 | |
As we close out 2025, 1517 and the Podcast Network are asking listeners to support our mission to declare and defend the good news that you are forgiven and free on account of Christ. This Advent, we're focusing on how Christ alone brings sinners home. That's the message we proclaim week after week through podcasts, sermon helps, videos, and articles and it's the message your financial support carries into 2026 and beyond. | |||
| What Christians Should Know About Islam | 12 Sep 2025 | 01:00:55 | |
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:
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| The Apocrypha | 24 Jul 2023 | 00:45:36 | |
The Thinking Fellows discuss the history and position of the Apocrypha for Lutherans. They present critical reasons for rejecting the Apocrypha from the biblical canon. Similarly, they discuss why the "removal" of the apocryphal books is not a strong polemic against Lutherans regarding Sola Scripture. However, they also discuss ways in which reading apocryphal books can be helpful. Show Notes: What's New from 1517: More from the hosts:
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| The Place and Function of Adiaphora | 17 Jul 2023 | 00:59:05 | |
Adiaphora is a theological term that means "indifference." It typically refers to practices that are neither commanded nor forbidden by God in Scripture. The Lutheran churches have historically used adiaphora as a method for explaining and allowing reasonable liturgical and personal piety differences between churches to exist while remaining unified around the core confessions of the church. The fellows discuss why understanding adiaphora is important and how it can benefit the church. Show Notes: What's New from 1517: More from the hosts:
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| The Struggle Between Church and Sports | 10 Jul 2023 | 00:56:42 | |
The Thinking Fellows weigh on one of the most tense issues that affect Churches. What are parents to do when their children's extracurricular activities get scheduled on Sunday? The Fellows discuss ways to increase parental and particularly paternal commitment to church attendance. Show Notes: What's New from 1517: More from the hosts:
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| Reading Recommendations | 30 Jun 2023 | 00:40:16 | |
The Fellows give some books and other recommendations. In the early years of Thinking Fellows, book recommendation episodes were a frequent fan favorite. The Fellows return with recommendations, both new and old. Show Notes: What's New from 1517: Book List: Vocation The Setting of Human Flourishing More from the hosts:
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| Is Christianity a Religion of Doctrines? | 20 Jun 2023 | 00:51:51 | |
In this episode, the Thinking Fellows discuss the centrality and importance of Christians' doctrinal content and confessions. They ask how this doctrinal core differs from other world religions. The end of the episode focuses on the place and purpose of Christian practices and how they are shaped and impact doctrine. Show Notes What's New from 1517: More from the hosts:
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| Sacred Spaces | 08 Jun 2023 | 00:49:49 | |
In this episode, the Thinking Fellows ask, what are sacred spaces, and do we need them? Bruce Hillman helps define what a holy space is while the fellows discuss the societal and religious functions that they serve. They conclude with examples of how Christianity uses sacred spaces such as churches but is uniquely authorized to do God's work in word and sacrament apart from a "temple" when necessary. Support the Podcast Network Fundraiser The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts More from the hosts
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| Orthodoxy | 02 Jun 2023 | 01:05:18 | |
In this episode, the Thinking Fellows discuss the idea of orthodoxy. What does it mean to be orthodox or to have an orthodox faith? They look at the utility of identifying orthodoxy and also at the importance of distinguishing between denominational differences and heresy. Show Notes The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts More from the hosts
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| The Tough Texts of Scripture | 24 May 2023 | 00:44:31 | |
This week, Caleb and Scott are joined by Dan Price to introduce the latest 1517 Podcast, "Tough Texts." On Tough Texts, Dan and Scott address classically tricky passages of Scripture and meet these texts with a plain reading. In this episode, Caleb asks Dan and Scott what it means for Scripture to be clear and how clarity and difficulty can be present in a text.
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| Christianity and Liberalism Part 2 | 11 May 2023 | 01:01:54 | |
Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss J. Gresham Machen's work Christianity and Liberalism. This first episode of a two-part podcast delivers an introduction to Machen and the context of American Protestantism during the early twentieth century. The Fellows praise Machen's book as prophetic while noting that it is refreshingly plain and easy to approach. Check back next week for their commentary on specific chapters of the book. The Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts More From The Hosts | |||
| Christianity and Liberalism | 02 May 2023 | 00:56:27 | |
Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss J. Gresham Machen's work Christianity and Liberalism. This first episode of a two-part podcast delivers an introduction to Machen and the context of American Protestantism during the early twentieth century. The Fellows praise Machen's book as prophetic while noting that it is refreshingly plain and easy to approach. Check back next week for their commentary on specific chapters of the book. The Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts More From The Hosts | |||
| The Pivotal Influence of the Book of Romans on the Reformation | 04 Sep 2025 | 00:48:34 | |
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:
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| The Church and The Culture War | 02 May 2023 | 00:48:04 | |
What responsibilities do individual Christians and their churches possess to fight against an antagonistic culture? The Thinking Fellows attempt to distinguish between the vocational necessities of being a citizen and the function of the Church to proclaim the Gospel. The fellows conclude that life in this world has no easy answers but that keeping the proper work of the Church and the demands of Christian citizens distinct from one another. | |||
| What is Woke? | 21 Apr 2023 | 00:46:10 | |
The Thinking Fellows enter treacherous waters. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce look to define the word "woke" and observe how political ideology functions or substitutes religion. Adam gives a historical overview of the development and use of the term, and the other fellows offer commentary about engaging in a political world without compromising the central mission of the church to proclaim Christ crucified for the forgiveness of sin. | |||
| If Christ Be Not Raised | 12 Apr 2023 | 00:47:42 | |
The Thinking Fellows celebrate easter with a conversation about the resurrection of Jesus. The entire Christian faith rests on this one truth and promise that Christ has risen from and done so for you. The fellows read 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 and shared their confidence in the reality and accomplishments of Christ's resurrection. Show Notes: The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts
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| Christianity and Psychology | 02 Apr 2023 | 01:04:04 | |
Are Christianity and psychology compatible? Caleb, Scott, and Bruce look at the relationship between the social sceinces and the Christian faith. The subject of mental health and care are important in today's soceity and culture but require careful navigation by Christians. | |||
| Is Atheism Foolish? | 24 Mar 2023 | 00:59:21 | |
In the cultural debate over God's existence, should the burden of proof rest on atheism rather than theism? Are Christianity and its account of the world more reasonable than atheism? Caleb, Adam, and Bruce address these questions and more in this apologetics-focused episode of the Thinking Fellows. | |||
| Should Christians Engage With Philosophy? | 17 Mar 2023 | 00:51:46 | |
Caleb, Adam, and Bruce revisit the relationship between faith and reason. This time they ask, is there a limit to Christian engagement in philosophy? They outline the distinction between theology and philosophy and explore the benefits of being educated and aware of philosophical thought and practice.
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| What Does Athens Have To Do With Jerusalem? | 10 Mar 2023 | 00:47:49 | |
Are theology and philosophy compatible? Caleb, Adam, and Bruce explore the relationship between faith and reason. They define the differences between theology and philosophy and attempt to outline the unique roles they serve. Philosophy is an essential discipline, but it cannot deliver faith and salvation. More From The Hosts | |||
| In The World Not Of The World | 28 Feb 2023 | 00:54:11 | |
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| Aliens | 21 Feb 2023 | 00:49:41 | |
Over the last several weeks, the news has been abuzz with UFOs. Incidents like these often result in speculation regarding the existence of aliens. While this speculation is not always meaningful, it has in the past been leveraged against Christians. Many materialists and pop scientists suggest that the Christian faith crumbles if aliens really exist. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss these ideas and concerns. | |||
| Christ and Culture | 14 Feb 2023 | 00:54:39 | |
How does the Christian faith interact with culture? Adam Francisco, Bruce Hillman, and John Hoyum discuss the role of the Christian faith in contrast and conjunction with society and culture. They cover a broad set of opinions and authors to give a picture of how vital this question has been and remains for western Christians. Preaching the Text with John Hoyum
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| Freedom of the Christian | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:54:46 | |
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:
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| The Return of the King (Lord of the Ring's Trilogy) | 07 Feb 2023 | 01:04:19 | |
Scott Keith, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman discuss the final book in The Lord of the Rings series. They discuss temptation, darkness, and the relativity of interpreting Tolkien. They debate the more profound meaning and moral lessons that Tolkien leaves behind and rank Tolkien's work amongst other literary classics. | |||
| The Two Towers (Lord of the Rings Trilogy) | 29 Jan 2023 | 00:44:57 | |
The Two Towers (Lord of the Rings Trilogy) Scott Keith, Adam Francisco, Caleb Keith, and Bruce Hilman discuss the second book in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. The Two Towers opens to a broken fellowship set on two distinct but interwoven journeys against the Dark Lord Sauron. This fragmented journey cements that a new age is coming to Middle Earth, the Age of Men. How do Tolkien's characters deal with temptation and resist the power of darkness? | |||
| Remembering Jim Nestingen | 19 Jan 2023 | 00:59:04 | |
Caleb Keith and Scott Keith join Steven Paulson and Ken Jones to remember their mentor Jim Nestingen. Jim was a pastor and doctor of the church who taught many to proclaim and absolve in the name of Christ. 1517 has been deeply influenced by Jim, and this episode is meant to honor and remember that impact and support. We look forward to the resurrection, where we will be able to laugh with Jim once more. Support the Show | |||
| New Year, New You | 12 Jan 2023 | 01:06:06 | |
The Thinking Fellows discuss memorable parts of 2022 and look forward to 2023. Scott hosts this episode and introduces the newest "Scholar in Residence" at 1517, Bruce Hilman. Bruce will continue to join the fellows for regular episodes in 2022. | |||
| The Fellowship of the Ring | 02 Jan 2023 | 00:50:24 | |
The Thinking Fellows discuss J.R.R. Tolkien's first book in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. They identify differences in style and scope from the Hobbit while discussing the apparent theological and philosophical themes. How does this pilgrim tail contribute to the literature, and is it uniquely Christian? | |||
| Merry Christmas 2022 | 25 Dec 2022 | 00:49:11 | |
The Thinking Fellows wish their listeners a Merry Christmas. They discuss the son "Mary Did You Know" and a notable trend of churches closing for Christmas. | |||
| The Hobbit | 17 Dec 2022 | 01:04:33 | |
The Thinking Fellows discuss J.R.R. Tolkiens The Hobbit. The Fellows outline what they liked and what they found challanging about reading and analyzing Tolkiens first fantasy novel. The Hobbit is a whimsical journey that sparked the reveival of the fantasy genre and echos of Tolkiens Roman Catcholic faith. | |||
| Reading Tolkien | 11 Dec 2022 | 00:42:48 | |
The Thinking Fellows prepare to read the fictional works of J.R.R. Tolkien. Caleb and Adam discuss what makes Tolkien unique and some of the challenges of analyzing his work. In particular, they focus on Tolkien as a devout Roman Catholic. Tolkien's Roman practice of the Christian faith colors his work in a way that is different from protestant authors like C.S. Lewis and helps explain why his work is not always clearly "Christian" to outside readers. Preaching the Text: Apple Podcasts, Spotify | |||
| How the Church Reads the Bible | 29 Nov 2022 | 00:47:14 | |
Caleb, Scott, and Adam are joined by John Hoyum to talk about how churches across the world read and preach the Bible. John is a Junior Fellow at 1517 and the co-host of the new podcast Preaching the Text with Steve Paulson. The discussion revolves around the lectionary, which is assigned Bible readings that churches use during worship. How do these readings get assigned? What benefits and drawbacks are there to using a lectionary rather than reading the Bible book-by-book? | |||
| A Time to Be Thankful | 23 Nov 2022 | 00:40:08 | |
The Thinking Fellows discuss and describe the things they are thankful for this year. While somewhat cliche, the fellows all explain how they have been blessed by their families and the work of 1517. Scott gives a helpful reminder that even though social times are changing and challenging, life is still very comfortable and good for many people, and we have many reasons to give thanks for God's blessings. Giving Tuesday is next week. All donations made on Giving Tuesday will be matched. Thank you for supporting our podcast. | |||
| Augustine of Hippo | 28 Aug 2025 | 00:53:34 | |
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:
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| Trust Not In Princes | 15 Nov 2022 | 00:42:19 | |
The Thinking Fellows comment on Psalm 146. "Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish." How do this and other passages affect how Christians view their political actions and vocations? Can Christians be active in the civil realm without violating this precept?
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| Literary Apologetics (Why You Should Study Them) | 11 Nov 2022 | 00:42:35 | |
The Fellows discuss the purpose and place of literary apologetics. They look at the role of narrative and imagination when doing theology and how it can help address those in need of Christ. They discuss the significance of good literature written by Christians like C.S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkein and how they can remind theologians that theology is not just categories but needs a narrative. Here We Still Stand 2023 Is SOLD OUT. Tickets for the HWSS regional event are still available.
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| Why You Should Celebrate the Reformation | 01 Nov 2022 | 00:46:45 | |
In this episode, The Thinking Fellows address the idea that the Reformation is not worthy of celebration but is lamentable. The Fellows contend that the Reformation ought to be celebrated for its recovery of the Gospel. Likewise, history tells us that Luther alone did not divide the catholic church but that separation and division have always been in the history of the Church on earth. | |||
| Justification By The Word | 26 Oct 2022 | 00:46:36 | |
The Thinking Fellows are joined by Dr. Jack Kilcrease to discuss the centrality and importance of the doctrine of the Word. Jack is the author of Justification by the Word, a new book published through Lexham Academic. In the book, Jack outlines how God uses his Word not just to describe sin and righteousness but uses the Word to make sinners righteous in Christ. Support the Show | |||
| Consciences Captive to the Word of God (HWSS Live 2022) | 19 Oct 2022 | 00:42:40 | |
The Thinking Fellows recorded a live show in Sandiego, California. For this episode, they ask, "What did Luther mean when he said his conscience was captive to the Word of God?" The Fellows each give an answer and explain the significance of Luther's stand at Worms. | |||
| Postmodernism (Why You Should Know the Intellectual Origins) | 12 Oct 2022 | 01:01:04 | |
The Thinking Fellows have Bruce Hillman on the show to discuss postmodernism. Bruce has extensively studied the development of postmodernism and helps give a history of its intellectual origins. The fellows also discuss the impact and fallout that postmodernism has had on our culture and the church. Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts
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| Why You Should Be Aware of Cultural Nihilism | 08 Oct 2022 | 00:39:39 | |
In this episode, the Thinking Fellows discuss what it means and looks like to live in a culture of nihilists. The fellows propose that postmodernism and atheistic materialism have entered the cultural conscience and are displayed and celebrated in media and art. | |||
| Rings of Power (Why You Should or Shouldn't Watch the Show) | 03 Oct 2022 | 00:45:18 | |
Scott and Caleb are joined by Joshua Keith to talk about the new Lord of the Rings T.V. series. Is the series a faithful adaptation of Tolkien's work? How has Lord of the Rings influenced the fantasy for movies and television? If you are a fan of Tolkien's literary work, should you watch the show? | |||
| Why You Should Be Aware Of Secularism | 22 Sep 2022 | 00:40:26 | |
Christians today need to realize that they live in a secular age. How do we navigate a world that goes on its merry way without referencing or acknowledging God? How does secularism different from materialism? Should Christians combat secularism or merely accept it? | |||
| Why You Should Care About the World Wars | 17 Sep 2022 | 00:47:13 | |
Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss World War I and World War II. How did these wars shape the society and culture we live in today? What philosophical and theological ideas led to the wars, and what happened to philosophy and theology after them? Ultimately, these events affected every facet of life, and the better we understand them, the better we can grasp the world we live in now. | |||
| Justin Martyr Father of Apologetics | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:49:53 | |
The Thinking Fellows explore the life and significance of Justin Martyr, an early Christian apologist. They focus on the challenges Justin faced, and his example for contemporary apologetics. Justin's work also highlights the distinction between apologetics and polemics, emphasizing defending the Christian faith against external criticisms and internal heresies. Show Notes: What's New from 1517:
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| Why You Should Do Hard Things | 05 Sep 2022 | 00:41:19 | |
Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss the idea of challenging and complex tasks. How do we both personally and vocationally benefit from undergoing difficult situations? Does doing hard things intersect with our theology of justification? | |||
| Why And What You Should Read From The Reformation | 23 Aug 2022 | 00:45:00 | |
If you are excited to learn from the primary sources of the Reformation, what should you start reading and why? The Thinking Fellows discuss the prime movers of the Reformation and their essential works. | |||
| Why You Should Study Apologetics | 10 Aug 2022 | 00:50:53 | |
Caleb and Adam talk about the utility and necessity of apologetics. They discuss how apologetics has changed with postmodernism but how the essential truths of Christianity have not. They also spend time distinguishing between the need to preach to people struggling with pain, sadness, and anger instead of arguing or debating with that person. While apologetics may be necessary, it must not be forced into action. Support the Show: | |||