Podcasts about LCMS

Are 10,000+ commissioned ministers in the LCMS being overlooked at the highest levels of church leadership? In this eye-opening episode, Tim Ahlman sits down with Bob McKinney, Dr. Jonathan Laabs, and Audrey Duensing-Werner to confront the decades-long tension around voting rights and representation for commissioned ministers in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.Why, after 16 attempts across multiple conventions, is the Synod still resisting change? What's really holding us back: polity, fear, or a misunderstanding of power and ministry?This conversation isn't about titles. It's about team, honor, and advancing the gospel in a post-Christian age. Whether you're a pastor, lay leader, DCE, teacher, or simply love your local church — this is a conversation the entire Synod needs to hear.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

What is it like to teach middle school at a Lutheran school in Taiwan? Andrew and Noel Schaff, serving the Lord in Chiayi, Taiwan, as middle school teachers at Concordia Middle and High School, join Sarah to talk about their journey to the mission field, what life has been like for them over their many years of service, what makes Concordia Middle and High School a unique place for students and teachers, and how they serve in their community in Taiwan. Learn more about the Schaffs and how to support their work at lcms.org/schaff. Photo credit: LCMS Communications/Erik M. Lunsford As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Did you know that the oldest Lutheran church in the Americas is an LCMS congregation in New York City? The Rev. Peter A.D. Deebrah (Pastor of Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Matthew in New York City) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about his journey from Guyana to New York City, how he became pastor of St. Matthew, the incredible history of St. Matthew beginning in the 1600s, how the congregation has both changed and stayed the same over 360 years, and how St. Matthew serves the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City. Read more about the Evangelical Lutheran Church of St. Matthew in Lutherans Engage: engage.lcms.org/oldest-congregation-summer-2025. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Your Calling / Luke 10:25-37Get the episode here.                                                                                        

Leviticus 19:9-18 / Colossians 1:1-14 / Luke 10:25-37Get the episode here.                                                                                                        

Fourth Sunday After Pentecost Church Service @ Redeemer Lutheran Fairhope LCMS

7/13/2025

What if the Parable of the Good Samaritan is more than just a call to kindness? In this powerful LCMS sermon, Pastor David Balla unpacks Luke 10:25–37 to reveal the deeper Gospel truth: the Church is Christ's Inn, a healing place where wounded sinners are brought by the Savior Himself. This sermon proclaims the Law and Gospel, showing how Christ is the true Good Samaritan who rescues the spiritually dead and entrusts them to His Church for restoration through Word and Sacrament.Ideal for Lutheran Christians, pastors, Bible students, and seekers, this sermon connects the parable to the Lutheran Confessions, the Small Catechism, and the life of the Church today. Explore the beauty of Christ's mercy, the mission of the Church, and the comfort of the Gospel. Subscribe for Christ-centered preaching, Lutheran doctrine, and liturgical reflections every week.Perfect for Proper 10 (Year C), this is a must-watch for anyone preparing for the Fifth Sunday after Pentecost or studying the role of the Church in the life of believers.#LutheranSermon #GoodSamaritan #LCMSPreaching #Luke10 #ChristCentered

Character / Luke 10:1-20Get the episode here.                                                                                       

Isaiah 66:10-14 / Galatians 6:1-10, 14-18 / Luke 10:1-20Get the episode here.                                                                                                       

Word & Sermon Weekly – Fifth Sunday after Pentecost – July 13, 2025 Leviticus 19:9–18 Colossians 1:1–14 Luke 10:25–37 Learn more about Zion Lutheran Church and the Christian faith, by subscribing to this podcast, and joining us next Sunday by visiting www.zionhiawatha.org

The 2nd commandment directs our mouths and tongues toward God. It does not take long to see how the Lord's name is misused, but the biggest offense is when false preachers offer lies in place of God's Word. The Christian is called to not only deny such offensive words, but to call upon the LORD in the day of trouble and pray, praise, and give thanks. We pray for our pastors, teachers, and workers, that they might speak God's Word faithfully and fulfill this command to His glory. Rev. Dennis McFadden of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, IN, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study the 2nd commandment. To learn more about Emmanuel Lutheran, visit emmanuellutheran.org. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

What does someone on the Seminary's Board of Regents do, and why is this work important? Matt Kenitzer, a member of the Board of Regents for Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about his upbringing in the church, what drew him to the LCMS, why faithful leadership in the church is important to him, how he became a member of the Board of Regents, and all the critical work the Regents do for the good of the Seminary. This episode originally aired on January 24, 2025. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

As the Gathering gets closer, we are taking some of your big questions so you can be confident heading to New Orleans in just a week!  Resources: YouthESource website – youthesource.com. LCMS Youth Gathering – lcmsgathering.com 

What is Worship Anew, and how does it help people experience the love of Jesus? Matthew Leighty (Executive Director, Worship Anew) joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the history of Worship Anew (formerly Worship for Shut-Ins), who is reached by Worship Anew today and how it makes a difference for them, who makes the work of Worship Anew possible, and the new partnership between Worship Anew and KFUO Radio. You can learn more about Worship Anew by visiting worshipanew.org. Worship Anew will be partnering with KFUO Radio to bring more opportunities to hear God's Word on Sunday mornings beginning in September. Listen at 7:30 a.m. CT and 1:00 p.m. CT. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Rev. Dr. Lawrence Rast, Jr, President of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, joins Andy and Sarah for our History of Lutheranism in America series to talk about the formation of the German Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio, and Other States, including the people who began the ground work for forming what became The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, the challenges that they faced, how the creation of our Synod happened, and what we can we learn from our history that would be helpful as we gather for convention this year. Find all three episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/history-of-lutheranism-in-america. This episode originally aired on July 5, 2023. Note: Rev. Dr. Lawrence Rast, Jr. is now former president of Concordia Theological Seminary. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

As large youth events like servant events, camps, and the LCMS Youth Gathering are happening this summer, adult leaders may be focused on their youth. But it is important for adult leaders to care for themselves as well. DCE Annie Anderson and Pastor Peter Couser talk about best practices for making sure all the adult leaders thrive and connect with the Gospel at large youth events. Bio: Annie Anderson is a DCE, preschool director and preschool teacher, all 3 in 1, at Hosanna Lutheran Church and Little Palms Preschool in Mesa Arizona. Endure 2025 will be her 9th LCMS Youth Gathering as a participant, adult leader or planner. She has a passion for empowering and equipping adult leaders to point the younger generations to Christ. Together with her husband, Rev. Timothy Anderson, they are in the process of adopting 2 siblings out of foster care. Oh, and they have a dog, Phoenix.  Pastor Peter Couser is Campus Pastor of Concordia Prep (formerly Baltimore Lutheran High School) in Towson, MD and is the Mission Developer of NewThing Lutheran Church which meets in the school and was chartered in June 2022.  Resources: YouthEsource website – youthesource.com. LCMS Youth Gathering – www.lcmsgathering.com 

Sandy Wendelin has led faithfully for 41 years—but she's come dangerously close to walking away more than once. Why? Because the Church still doesn't know how to handle conflict. In this raw, honest episode, Sandy and Tim expose the unspoken tensions in church leadership: from failed mergers, second-chair burnout, passive-aggressive church culture, and what happens when we fawn instead of fight.Plus, they tackle the hard questions: Why are we so slow to change? Are LCMS women truly empowered to lead? And is our obsession with tradition stopping the Gospel from moving forward?Whether you're a pastor, DCE, teacher, or lay leader—this one will hit home.

Rev. Dr. Lawrence Rast, Jr, President of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, joins Andy and Sarah for our History of Lutheranism in America series to talk about how churches began to organize into large synods, how language played a role in the development of these synods, challenges these Lutherans faced, and two important characters in this story: C.F.W. Walther and Martin Stephan. Find all three episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/history-of-lutheranism-in-america. This episode originally aired on June 28, 2023. Note: Rev. Dr. Lawrence Rast, Jr. is now former president of Concordia Theological Seminary. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this episode, our guest Deb Jurchen talks about the importance of intergenerational connectedness as it relates to family ministry in churches and homes.   Bio: Deb Jurchen holds a BFA in K-12 Art Education from Concordia University, Nebraska, and an MSE in Family Life Education from Concordia University Wisconsin & Ann Arbor. Professionally, Deb serves as the Director of University Institutes at Concordia University, Nebraska, an adjunct professor in the Family Life Education Graduate program at Concordia University, Nebraska, as well as the Family Life Ministry Consultant for the Nebraska District LCMS.    Deb is married to Rev. Dr. Pete Jurchen who is Assistant Professor of Lutheran Education and Faith Formation at Concordia University, Nebraska. Together, they have five children and reside in Seward, Nebraska. She loves hiking, gardening, and staying active with her kids!  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dan Galchutt talks about the privilege of parents to pass down the faith to their children, and how the setting of the home is a prime training ground for young believers.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

In this episode, Steph welcomes the newest co-host to Friends for Life – Rev. Andy Becker – as he shares his role with LCMS Family Ministry and introduces Season 9.   Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dr. Todd Biermann joins Andy and Steph to talk about why family is so important in Christian theology and gives us simple habits that can make families stronger in both faith and love.   Bio: Married to Heather Stange of Frankenmuth, MI in 1995, Rev. Dr. Todd A. Biermann has always had a passion for fostering marriages and families in God's way. This has been true in his role as a parish pastor of the LCMS for 33 years (most recently at Faith Lutheran, Grand Blanc, MI), in his international ministry with Heather, Life in God's Way, and now as they both are working with Concordia Center for the Family (CCF), a Recognized Service Organization (RSO) of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS). Dr. Biermann's educational path (BA at Concordia University Nebraska, MDiv at Concordia Seminary St. Louis and DMin at Concordia Theological Seminary Fort Wayne) along with a wide array of field experience has prepared him for his role as the Executive Director of CCF, which he was called to begin in February 2024. He rejoices in the privilege to promote family discipleship, uniting homes and congregations in making lifelong disciples of Jesus. Learn more about Dr. Biermann and CCF at www.concordiafamily.org. Contact him directly at toddbiermann@concordiafamily.org.  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Concordia Center for the Family https://www.concordiacenterforthefamily.org/  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Brandon Metcalf talks with Steph and Andy about his strategies for family ministry and why men play a vital role in the church and home.   Bio: Brandon Metcalf currently serves as the Associate Pastor at Zion Lutheran Church in Bethalto, IL and previously served as a DCE in the Missouri District. He is a contributing author to numerous books and Bible studies for youth ministries and has spoken at many district and national youth gatherings, including the session "Worth Dying For: A New Model for Dating/Relationships" at the past two LCMS Youth Gatherings. He enjoys playing volleyball, board games, trivia, and writing parody songs, but his greatest joys in life come from being a husband and a father. Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Learn how recognizing milestones and benchmarks in the faith leads to healthy spiritual development for children and adults alike!  Bio: Mark Cook is a graduate of Concordia Nebraska and is in his 15th year serving as DCE at Trinity Lutheran Church in Rochester, MN. He serves in the areas of family ministry, youth ministry, confirmation, and children's ministry. He enjoys playing with his kids, music, camping, backpacking, and anything that involves being outdoors and going on adventures with his beautiful wife Libby and children, Micah (8), Karis (6), Ezra (3), Isaiah (20mo), and baby girl (coming soon!). Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

Rev. Dr. Lawrence Rast, Jr, President of Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, joins Andy and Sarah for our History of Lutheranism in America series to talk about the different groups leaving the Holy Roman Empire German states for America, how things like Pietism and Rationalism affected their decision to leave, the variety of groups that immigrated to America, and Rev. Muhlenburg and the Pennsylvania Ministerium. Find all three episodes in this series at kfuo.org/tag/history-of-lutheranism-in-america. This episode originally aired on June 21, 2023. Note: Rev. Dr. Lawrence Rast, Jr. is now former president of Concordia Theological Seminary. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for July 6, 2025. Today's meditation on Psalm 2:1–3, titled “Nations Rage Against God's Plan,” explores humanity's tragic and futile rebellion against the Lord and His Anointed. The psalmist exposes the vain plots of rulers and nations who see God's gracious rule as bondage to be broken. Yet no human scheme can overthrow Christ, the true King, whose reign is secure and eternal. Even in the face of violent opposition, God's plan of salvation stands unshaken, fulfilled perfectly through Jesus' death and resurrection. As believers, we find true freedom in God's loving cords — His Word, forgiveness, and grace.

God is merciful, even if the world does not see it. Luther highlights the explanation as a reminder that the consequences of following other gods are eternal. Although it may seem that the world is prospering without faith in the Triune God, God is working good for His people according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). We are to expect only what God promises to give and know that as the tomb is empty and Christ reigns on high, our hearts can trust in Him and Him alone. Rev. Samuel Bobby, professor at Luther Academy, Riga, Latvia, joins the Rev. Brady Finnern to conclude our study of the 1st commandment. To learn more about Luther Academy, visit www.lut.edu.lv. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

Discover the true joy that lasts forever in this inspiring Lutheran sermon based on Luke 10:20. Pastor David Balla from the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) preaches on “The Joy of Heaven” for the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost. Jesus reminds His disciples not to rejoice in their ministry successes but to rejoice that their names are written in heaven. This powerful sermon will deepen your Christian faith, helping you focus on the eternal hope of salvation through Jesus Christ rather than temporary earthly accomplishments. Drawing on LCMS theology, Lutheran tradition, and the Small Catechism, this sermon proclaims the Gospel with clarity and conviction. Perfect for those seeking biblical preaching, Lutheran sermons, LCMS Pentecost reflections, and Christian encouragement. Learn what it means to have your name written in the Lamb's Book of Life, to rest in Christ's finished work, and to rejoice in your secure place in God's kingdom. Share this message with your family, Bible study group, or congregation. Subscribe for more Lutheran preaching, confessional LCMS teachings, and Bible-based sermons to strengthen your faith in Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer.Hashtags:#LutheranSermon #LCMS #Luke1020 #PentecostPreaching #ChristianJoy

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for July 5, 2025. Today's meditation on Psalm 1:4–6, titled “The Wicked Shall Not Stand,” contrasts the fate of the righteous and the wicked. While those rooted in God's Word flourish like a fruitful tree, the wicked are like chaff blown away by the wind, with no foundation or endurance before God's judgment. Scripture warns that those who reject the Lord cannot stand among the righteous, for their path leads to destruction. Yet God knows the way of the righteous — those redeemed by Christ, rooted in His grace, and preserved by His mercy. Find encouragement to hold firm to Christ, whose saving work secures your place in God's congregation forever.

How do relationships, opportunities, and invitations encourage young people to remain in the church and consider church work? Rev. Seth Flick, pastor of Divine Redeemer Lutheran Church in Hartland, WI , joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve Series to talk about his formation as a pastor and who encouraged him in this pursuit, his congregation's emphasis on their duty to raise up future church workers, how they use relationships and opportunities and invitations to encourage children in the faith, and the roles of other church workers and parents in their approach. Learn more about the Set Apart to Serve Initiative at lcms.org/setaparttoserve. This episode originally aired on March 8, 2024. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for July 4, 2025. Today's devotion from Psalm 1:1–3, titled “Rooted in God's Word Alone,” celebrates the life grounded in God's unchanging Word. The psalmist describes the blessed person as one who rejects the counsel of the wicked and delights in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. Like a tree planted by streams of water, the believer who trusts in Christ and His promises will flourish, bearing fruit in every season. Rooted in Lutheran, Christ-centered teaching, this devotion encourages you to build your life on Scripture, which refreshes, sustains, and strengthens your faith.

Do we still need the law? What were the controversies concerning the Lord's Supper? The Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District and host of KFUO Radio's Concord Matters, joins Andy and Sarah to talk about the Formula of Concord reading plan he created for 2025, including the questions concerning the Third Use of the Law and The Lord's Supper that are addressed in June and July's readings. What is the Third Use of the Law? What were the controversies of those days surrounding the Third Use? Do we still need the law? What do we believe concerning the Lord's Supper according to the Word of God? Are the controversies concerning the Lord's Supper still prevalent? Why is it important for us to be very clear on the Scriptural Truth of the Lord's Supper? Find the full reading plan from The Lutheran Witness at witness.lcms.org/2024/reading-plan, and find correlating Concord Matters episodes at kfuo.org/formulaofconcord. June | Third Use of the Law Week 1: Ep VI 1 (p. 485–486) SC Table of Duties (p. 346–348) Week 2: Ep VI 2–7 (p. 486–487) Gal. 5:1–26 Week 3: SD VI (p. 557–561) Week 4: Ep VI 8 (p. 487) July | The Lord's Supper Week 1: Ep VII 1–5 (p. 487–488) AC X (p. 35) AC XXII (p. 45–46) Week 2: Ep VII 6–20 (p. 488–489) Ap X (p. 153–155) Ap XXII (p. 208–210) Week 3: SD VII 91–128 (p. 576–581) Week 4: Ep VII 21–42 (p. 489–491) This episode originally aired on June 2, 2025.  As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Lutherans for Life has a new Executive Director! The Rev. Dr. Aric Fenske (Executive Director, Lutherans for Life) joins Andy and Sarah from the 2025 LWML National Convention to talk about his service prior to joining Lutherans for Life, what prompted his continuing education and earning a Doctor of Ministry, why advocating for life is so important to him and his family, why he appreciates Lutherans for Life's Gospel approach to life issues, and the upcoming Lutherans for Life conference happening September 24-26 in Colorado Springs, CO. Learn more about Lutherans for Life at lutheransforlife.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for July 2, 2025. Today's devotion from Ecclesiastes 12:12–13, titled “The Essence of Wisdom,” draws us to the heart of true understanding: “Fear God and keep His commandments.” Solomon reminds us that endless study and human opinions cannot satisfy the soul, but reverence for God is the foundation of wisdom. Rooted in Christ-centered, Lutheran teaching, this devotion explores how fearing God is not terror but awe-filled trust, and how obedience flows from faith, not from works. Whether you seek spiritual direction, biblical truth, or encouragement for daily Christian living, this devotion will help you see God's commandments as a gift of grace, fulfilled perfectly in Christ and now lived out by His Spirit.

Bob Sundquist takes us on a captivating journey through the turbulent founding story of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod—a tale far more complex and human than most church histories acknowledge. Moving beyond simplified narratives of heroes and villains, Sundquist reveals how the first "celebrity pastor" of the LCMS, Martin Stephan, led 700 Saxon immigrants to America in 1838 only to face accusations and eventual exile across the Mississippi River.This conversation reveals how historical understanding helps us navigate present church tensions between pastoral and congregational authority.• History is fundamentally about storytelling and understanding people, not just memorizing dates• Martin Stephan was the first "celebrity pastor" of the LCMS whose leadership eventually created a crisis• The accusations against Stephan of sexual impropriety likely had no concrete evidence but were used to remove him• C.F.W. Walther developed Lutheran understanding of church authority through the trauma of Stephan's removal• Pastors should focus primarily on Word and Sacrament ministry rather than business management• The LCMS has historically had a hyper-fixation on the Office of Ministry as a result of early traumas• Walther's "Duties of an Evangelical Lutheran Synod" (1879) offers wisdom for contemporary church conflicts• The Missouri Synod repeats the same resolutions without taking action, indicating unresolved tensionsSupport the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

What can after-school care look like for teens with disabilities? Addie Johnson (Founder and Executive Director, Our Place After School Care) and Wade Johnson (DCE at Faith Lutheran Church in Hastings, NE, and volunteer with Our Place After School Care) join Andy and Sarah at the 2025 LWML National Convention to talk about what prompted Addie to start Our Place After School Care, why this work is so important to Addie and Wade, the teens and families Our Place serves, what people may not know about this kind of care, what happens in a typical day at Our Place, and how teens and families hear the Good News of Jesus. You can learn more about Our Place After School Care at ourplacecare.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for July 1, 2025. Today's devotion from Ecclesiastes 12:9–11, titled “The Preacher's Careful Words,” explores Solomon's reflection on teaching, wisdom, and the divine authority of Scripture. Solomon shows that true wisdom is deeply considered, beautifully spoken, and anchored in truth—like goads that prod us and nails that secure us. These words, ultimately given by the Good Shepherd, guide, correct, and comfort us as God's living voice. Whether you seek deeper Lutheran biblical teaching, encouragement for faithful living, or inspiration to treasure God's Word, this devotion will strengthen your understanding of Scripture as God's gracious gift.

Flannery O'Connor's perspective as a devout Catholic writing in mid-century Georgia is observant and powerful. The theology intertwined into the narratives of her stories set her apart as an author. Dr. David Schmitt, professor of practical theology, and Dr. Joel Biermann, professor of systematic theology, discuss her influence and make a case for reading her work.

What is the latest exciting news from Lutheran Heritage Foundation? The Rev. Dr. Matthew Heise and the Rev. Mark Moss from Lutheran Heritage Foundation join Andy and Sarah from the 2025 LWML National Convention to talk about the 25th anniversary of LHF work in Africa, the translation efforts in Germany for Lutheran materials in Farsi, work being done in England, and how LHF partners with missionaries on the ground to further the mission of LHF. You can learn more about Lutheran Heritage Foundation at lhfmissions.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Welcome to Daily Devotion with Pastor Balla for June 30, 2025. Today's devotion from Ecclesiastes 12:6–8, titled “Life's Final Chapter,” reflects on the profound imagery of life's fragility and the certainty of death. Solomon's poetic words remind us that we are dust, returning to the God who made us, and that all earthly pursuits are vanity without Him. Yet in Christ, death is not the end but the doorway to eternal life. This devotion offers comfort and hope through the Gospel, pointing to Jesus who conquered the grave and gives us victory beyond the grave. Whether you are reflecting on mortality, seeking peace about life's end, or growing in your Lutheran faith, this devotion will anchor you in God's promises.

Second Sunday After Pentecost Church Service @ Redeemer Lutheran Church Fairhope LCMS

6/22/2025

A god is whatever we depend on for all good and seek for refuge in distress. One can believe that such good comes from the Triune God, or one could seek it elsewhere. What is your god? Luther warns of mammon, people, skill, power, friendship, and pride. Each of these can easily become a god. However, we know from Scripture that all that is good is from God (Mark 10:18). He is the One who gives us food, drink, nourishment, health, protection, peace, and everything else we need to support this body and life. The objects themselves are not God, but flow from the generosity of the One who gives us all things in Christ (Colossians 1:15-20).  Rev. Samuel Bobby, professor at Luther Academy, Riga, Latvia, joins the Rev. Brady Finnern to study the 1st commandment. To learn more about Luther Academy, visit lut.edu.lv. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

A god is whatever we depend on for all good and seek for refuge in distress. One can believe that such good comes from the Triune God, or one could seek it elsewhere. What is your god? Luther warns of mammon, people, skill, power, friendship, and pride. Each of these can easily become a god. However, we know from Scripture that all that is good is from God (Mark 10:18). He is the One who gives us food, drink, nourishment, health, protection, peace, and everything else we need to support this body and life. The objects themselves are not God, but flow from the generosity of the One who gives us all things in Christ (Colossians 1:15-20). Rev. Samuel Bobby, professor at Luther Academy, Riga, Latvia, joins the Rev. Brady Finnern to study the 1st commandment. To learn more about Luther Academy, visit lut.edu.lv. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

Welcome to Episode 97 of 2414! In this 10th installment of the Vibrant Conversations Deck series, Pastor Dan and Shane are back—just the two of them—for a hilarious, heartfelt, and hunger-inducing episode.They dive into everything from home buying stress to the theology of knocking on wood, from Outburst games on human sacrifice (yes, really) to Wits & Wagers trivia on Oprah and cable channels. But the highlight? A single card from the deck:"What's one adventurous thing you've eaten? Share about the meal."What follows is a food storytelling marathon that ranges from fermented shark in Iceland to cat food in college, with pit stops for burrito burgers, Wagyu, wasabi edamame, and even hot chocolate floats. Through humor and humility, the conversation reveals how even meals can carry meaning—and how the weirdest foods can lead to the richest stories.If you're looking to enhance your own conversations or simply want to explore these engaging topics further, you can grab your own Vibrant Conversations Deck here:

Discover this powerful Lutheran sermon from the Third Sunday after Pentecost, based on Luke 9:51–62, titled “Eyes Forward, Hands to the Plow.” In this confessional Lutheran message, Pastor Balla explores how Jesus Christ set His face toward Jerusalem, refusing to look back, and how this resolute love gives us courage to follow Him in faith today. Learn what it means to live as a disciple with your eyes fixed on Christ, letting go of regret, and trusting in the grace that makes you fit for the kingdom of God. Whether you are a lifelong Lutheran or exploring the Christian faith, this sermon will encourage you with Gospel-centered hope, rooted in the Scriptures and framed by the Lutheran Confessions. This sermon is perfect for those seeking a Christ-centered, Bible-based, Law-and-Gospel message in the LCMS tradition. Listen and be strengthened by the good news that Christ goes before you and is with you always. Subscribe for more Lutheran sermons, Bible teachings, and confessional resources to deepen your faith in Jesus Christ our Lord.⸻Five Suggested Hashtags:#LutheranSermon#LCMS#Luke9#EyesForwardHandsToThePlow#ConfessionalLutheran

How does an educator become a Lutheran School Principal? Dr. Alan Freeman (Director of School Ministry, LCMS Office of National Mission) joins Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about how he became a school administrator, what kind of “leadership training program” for Lutheran schools existed when he became an administrator, the need for Lutheran school administrators today, the correlation existing between the shortage of Lutheran school teachers and the shortage of Lutheran school administrators, how Lutheran educators are trained for leadership through the SLED (School Leadership Development) program, and what SLED training looks like. Learn more about Lutheran Schools and Lutheran School Leadership at lcms.org/schools. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What is it like to serve as missionaries in the Kingdom of Cambodia? The Rev. Dr. JP and Aimee Cima (Serving the Lord in the Kingdom of Cambodia) join Andy and Sarah to talk about their journey to the mission field in Cambodia, what they've been learning about the culture where they serve, what both of them get to do in Cambodia, and the partners who make this work possible. They also share some exciting things that have happened on the mission field and in family life, and what they are looking forward to when they return to Cambodia. Learn more about the Cimas and how to support their work at cimafam.com and LCMS.org/cima. Find out how you can serve at servenow.lcms.org. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

What happens when the traditional path to ministry isn't an option? For Pastor Eli Thomas, the journey to becoming an LCMS pastor meant navigating uncharted waters through the colloquy process while balancing family responsibilities, work, and education over eleven challenging years.What began as a winding path through different denominations ultimately led him back to Lutheran theology through his rediscovery of the real presence of Christ in the sacraments.• Taking 11 years to complete undergraduate and seminary education while working and raising a family• Navigating the challenging colloquy process to become an LCMS pastor• Finding joy in interactive Bible study that transforms both teacher and students• Serving two congregations simultaneously, including one with an average age of 80• Moving from lecture-style teaching to dialogue that helps people experience Scripture• Reflecting on convention experiences and hopes for the future of pastoral formation• Discovering God's faithfulness when facing unexpected challengesSupport the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org