Podcasts about martin luther college

In today's episode, we welcome back Dr. Tim Grundmeier from MLC to talk about his newly published book.Lutheranism and American Culture examines the transformation of the nation's third-largest Protestant denomination over the course of the nineteenth century. In the antebellum era, leading voices within the church believed that the best way to become American was by modifying certain historic doctrines deemed too Catholic and cooperating with Anglo-evangelicals in revivalism and social reform. However, by the mid-1870s, most Lutherans had rejected this view. Though they remained proudly American, most embraced a religious identity characterized by a commitment to their church's confessions, isolation from other Christians, and a conservative outlook on political and social issues.Grundmeier shows that this transformation did not happen in a vacuum. Throughout the Civil War and early years of Reconstruction, disputes over slavery and politics led to quarrels about theology and church affairs. During the war and immediately after, the Lutheran church in the United States experienced two major schisms, both driven by clashing views on the national conflict. In the postbellum years, Lutherans adopted increasingly conservative positions in theology and politics, mainly in reaction to the perceived “radicalism” of the era. By the final decades of the nineteenth century, Lutherans had established a rigorously conservative and definitively American form of the faith, distinct from their coreligionists in Europe and other Protestants in the United States.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship The Wauwatosa Diary (book) Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the HostBenjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards from the Concordia Historical Institute.Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis. ...

No one writes about our Savior Jesus better than Isaiah. This week's special Christmas episode looks at Isaiah 52. Our guest is Martin Luther College professor Keith Wessel. 

Kwik trip has been repeatedly named as a “Best Place to Work” both statewide and nationally and we dive into the specifics on employee culture. This previews a 2026 Dairy Strong conference presentation, register today at dairystrong.org. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Ben Leibl of Kwik Trip discuss the following topics:  Praise Program Unsolicited guest compliments Employee training On-going education and professional development Motivators Challenges Keys to building a reputation Advice to balance performance with fostering a supportive, compassionate environment How to start a positive culture Future goals for Kwik trip customer service and employee engagement Register now for the Dairy Strong conference Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin About the guest Ben Leibl is a Public Relations Specialist for Kwik Trip Inc., based in La Crosse, WI. In his role at Kwik Trip, he assists coworkers with their ongoing educational needs and directs the Kwik Trip praise program, which last year meant acknowledging over 2600 unsolicited guest compliment letters. Prior to joining Kwik Trip in 2020, Ben was an instructor and principal in Oshkosh, WI and Omaha, NE. He holds degrees from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN. Ben sits on the Boards of the Boys and Girls Club in La Crosse, WI and serves as the Chair of St. Paul's Lutheran School Board. Ben and his wife Heidi have 3 children and they live in Holmen, WI. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org.

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Dec. 17. Kwik trip has been repeatedly named as a “Best Place to Work” both statewide and nationally and we dive into the specifics on employee culture. This previews a 2026 Dairy Strong conference presentation, register today at dairystrong.org. Dairy Stream host, Joanna Guza, and guest Ben Leibl of Kwik Trip discuss the Kwik Trip Praise Program, unsolicited guest compliments, employee training, motivators, how to start a positive culture, future goals for customer service innovation and employee engagement. Register now for the Dairy Strong conference Jan. 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin About the guest Ben Leibl is a Public Relations Specialist for Kwik Trip Inc., based in La Crosse, WI. In his role at Kwik Trip, he assists coworkers with their ongoing educational needs and directs the Kwik Trip praise program, which last year meant acknowledging over 2600 unsolicited guest compliment letters. Prior to joining Kwik Trip in 2020, Ben was an instructor and principal in Oshkosh, WI and Omaha, NE. He holds degrees from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN. Ben sits on the Boards of the Boys and Girls Club in La Crosse, WI and serves as the Chair of St. Paul's Lutheran School Board. Ben and his wife Heidi have 3 children and they live in Holmen, WI. Compeer Financial is proud partner of Dairy Stream.  Learn more about Dairy Stream sponsorship. This podcast is produced by the Voice of Milk, a collaboration of individual dairy organizations working to improve the future of dairy farm families. Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com.  Join us at Dairy Strong on January 14-15 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Gain timely political updates, dive into the dynamics of producer-processor relationships and learn strategies to sustain a stronger future for dairy through innovation and collaboration. United together, we're leading with purpose—one person, one policy and one farm at a time. To learn more, visit dairystrong.org.

The most important WELS history resource might not sit on a shelf — it's already in your browser.In this episode, we sit down with Professor Nathan Ericson, Library Director at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary and Editor of the Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly, to explore the quiet engine behind much of modern WELS scholarship: Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Digital Library. We discuss how thousands of digitized papers—from convention essays to rare historical documents—form an indispensable record of the synod's past and a living resource for pastors, teachers, researchers, and congregational historians today. Ericson unpacks how these materials are curated, what hidden gems lie inside, and how a new generation can use them to build a clearer, richer understanding of our church's story. This is the episode for anyone who loves archives, theology, or the thrill of finding the perfect source—right when you need it most.WLS online collectionsSupport the show Confessional Languages Scholarship The Wauwatosa Diary (book) Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the HostBenjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards from the Concordia Historical Institute.Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis. ...

This week on WELSTech we take a deep dive into Google's NotebookLM. Discover how this AI tool uses only your uploaded documents to create everything from video and audio overviews, flashcards, and summary documents, plus learn about other innovative AI tools like Hume Voice AI and the Plaud audio recorder that are changing the way we work and communicate. The discussion I wonder …. – Martin and Sallie are joined by Dr. Rachel Renno, Director of Academic Computing for Martin Luther College, and Jason Schmidt, Director of Technology for Oshkosh (WI) Area School District to discuss Google’s NotebookLM and how it leverages AI only on the documents you upload. Use NotebookLM to generate video and audio overviews of your content as well as summary documents, flashcards, and quizzes. Plus, it integrates easily into Google Classroom! Sample NotebookLM – WELSTech SAMR Season Overview Video overview Audio overview Ministry resource 10 Ways A Pastor Can Use Google NotebookLM for Work, Ministry and Beyond Picks of the week Hume – Voice AI Plaud – AI audio recorder Auctria online auctions – Sample auction by Risen Savior Lutheran School, Mankato, MN Nomadic Travel Pack Community feedback iCloud and Google Drive are NOT Backups from Kim Komando HubSpot Specialist needed in WELS Technology From WELS Intersections on Facebook Thanksgiving Social Media post ideas Church Technology in 2025 and beyond from Tithe.ly Nextdoor – local community communication Reach app – group email and text Apple Business Connect – control your church or school display on Apple Maps and more Get involved Add comments Send us an e-mail welstech@wels.net Join the WELSTech community: WELSTech Google Group WELSTech on Facebook WELSTech on Pinterest WELSTech on Instagram Add to the WELSTech wiki welstechwiki.gapps.wels.net Contribute to the #WELSTech Twitter conversation Follow us on Twitter – welstech, mspriggs and salliedraper Share with the Diigo group welstech

What was it like to witness Martin Luther's wedding—and even his bridal chamber? In this episode, we explore Justus Jonas's vivid letter announcing Luther's marriage to Katharina von Bora, complete with tears, friends, and ancient wedding customs that may shock modern ears. Along the way, we'll uncover the surprising role of the best man, the significance of Luther's marriage for Reformation theology, and why vocation and family life became so central to his legacy.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship The Wauwatosa Diary (book) Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the HostBenjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards from the Concordia Historical Institute.Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis. ...

All these things are from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18). Amen.The Wisconsin Synod began in 1850 with three pastors. By 1862, the new synod president, John Bading, recognized that for the Wisconsin Synod to continue growing and remaining faithful to the Scriptures, it would need to develop its own source of pastors in the United States. The mission societies in Germany had been sending money and pastors to the New World. They were appreciated. But President Bading noticed issues for this new, fledgling church body. The monies and numbers of men were inconsistent. Also, the mission societies intentionally wanted men who were trained to serve both Lutheran and Reformed congregations. Confessional Lutheranism was not something that interested those sending the men.President Bading's plea to the 1862 convention was insistent: "Old synodical congregations have been standing orphaned for many months. … Requests for preachers coming from new congregations who had not as yet joined the synod could not be granted even a hearing. … We cannot and dare not rely on Germany. … We must dig a well in our country, in our Synod, that will supply the workers. If we expect to wait with the institution until we are well-fixed financially, it will never materialize (Christ Through Us, p. 31).The Wisconsin Synod established its own seminary in 1863. This was the same summer the Battle of Gettysburg was fought on the campus of one of the oldest Lutheran seminaries in the United States. Classes began in September of 1863 in a house in Watertown, Wisconsin with one student. By November, another student arrived. Within a year several more students were taking classes. The seminary was off and running.The synod purchased 5 acres of land and broke ground on their first building in 1864. By September 1865, the synod had a seminary, a college, and a preparatory high school all on the same campus. "For now, a well had been dug in the Wisconsin Synod. With God's blessing, the new institutions would produce well-trained pastors to proclaim Christ in and through the synod." (Christ Through Us).Already at the first convention in 1850, it had been resolved that pastors should engage themselves in the education of the youth, conducting day schools in addition to Sunday School. Usually, the local pastor was the teacher of the school. Not every one of these was an all-day, Monday through Friday institution. Classes were held as the pastor's time allowed, and farming work kept many children home from school. By 1860 nearly half of the synod's congregations had a weekday school. Some of the larger congregations in Milwaukee and elsewhere soon called teachers to free up the pastors from these school duties. Since there was a desire for better trained teachers and a steadier supply of them, a teacher training course was added to the Watertown college in the mid-1870s.Our church body was founded to continue preaching and teaching God's salvation in churches, classrooms, and living rooms. It was founded to put into practice the words of Moses in Deuteronomy 6: "Listen, O Israel, and be conscientious about doing those things, so it may go well for you and so you may increase greatly in a land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord, the God of your fathers, promised you. Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God. The Lord is one! Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words that I am commanding you today are to be on your heart. 7Teach them diligently to your children, and speak about them when you sit in your house and when you walk on the road, when you lie down and when you get up" (Deuteronomy 6:3-7).Did you notice how intense Moses is here? He describes a way of life that is totally saturated with God's Word inside and out. Perhaps many today would consider Moses' intensity to be overkill.God's Word should be so well known that it becomes internal – "on your heart" – on the hearts of you and your children. God's Word is to be an ever-present reality on the hearts, minds, and lips of God's people. It isn't something we just hear and read, pray and sing on Sunday mornings. God's Word should capture our conversations – "speak about them." It should absorb our actions – "when you sit and when you walk." They should thread through our thoughts – "when you lie down and when you get up."How do you start your day? Do you grab your phone to start scrolling social media? That doesn't set a good precedence for the day. How do you end your day? Do you watch videos on your phone while lying in bed? That doesn't allow you to get a good night's sleep. These are also a waste of the precious, limited amount of time God has given you.What might be a better use of your time? In his Small Catechism, Martin Luther suggests making the sign of the cross, repeating the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer, and then praying his morning prayer. "Then go to your work with joy, singing a hymn, like one of the Ten Commandments or what your devotion may suggest" (The Small Catechism).Gather your children together for prayer and a family devotion. Take 5 to 15 minutes a day in prayer, confession, and meditation on God's Word. Use online or written devotions from the WELS, read a portion of the Bible, and listen to podcasts of sermons, Bible studies, and discussions. (I think your pastor has a few podcasts you can listen to.)Luther has similar advice for the evening. He again suggests making the sign of the cross to remind you of your Baptism, then reciting the Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and his evening prayer. "Then go to sleep immediately and cheerfully."Gather your children together for prayer in the evening. Read a portion of Scripture or a family devotion. Pray a written prayer and add your own prayers from the heart. Turn off the lights. "Then go to sleep immediately and cheerfully."The Israelites were to obey God's laws. "Now this is the body of commands, and these are the statutes and the ordinances that the Lord your God commanded me to teach you, so you may carry them out in the land to which you are crossing over to receive as a possession, so that you may fear the Lord your God by keeping all his statutes and his commandments, which I am commanding to you, as well as to your children and grandchildren, all the days of your life, and so that your days may be long" (Deuteronomy 6:1-2). Not only were they to listen to them, but they were to take them to heart. They were to put them into practice.What is one of the best ways to learn how to do something? By teaching it to somebody else. Who better to teach than our children and grandchildren? But what do we do? Probably not that.Take the time right now to bow your head. Confess to God how you fill up your heart with nonsense and the unimportant, instead of filling up your heart with what is important, essential, and eternal.Silence for private confession.Children of the heavenly Father, Jesus Christ has forgiven you. St. Paul writes, "God made him, who did not know sin, to become sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in him" (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus made a Great Exchange. Because you fail to love God with your whole being, Jesus loved God above all things. Because you don't set aside Sunday as your Sabbath rest in the Lord, the Son of God worshiped the Triune God in the synagogue on the Sabbath. Because you fail to meditate on God's Word, Jesus is the Word made flesh to reconcile you to God. Because you fail to pray, Jesus went off to pray on his own, and taught his disciples to pray the Lord's Prayer.The Pew Research Center released a study two years ago that found that only 35% of parents said that it was either "extremely" or "very" important to them that their children have beliefs similar to their own. 22% said it was "somewhat" important. While a shocking 43% said it was "not at all" or "not too" important that their children share religious beliefs similar to their own. They consider Moses' intensity to be overkill.Another study found that 23% of Christian parents are worried their little ones might be rejected by their classmates if their faith becomes a public thing. God has laid out a plan in Deuteronomy 6 to pass the faith to the next generations. But sadly, there are many parents and grandparents who have devised their own plan – if kids don't know anything about their faith, they won't say anything about their faith; and if they don't say anything about their faith, no one will pick on them. Their logic is flawless … if the greatest duty of parents is to make sure their offspring have playmates. On the other hand, if you are concerned about seeing your children and grandchildren in heaven, then you will be sharing Jesus' salvation story when you are sitting at home, walking on the sidewalk, getting ready for bed, and getting ready for the day.Parents and grandparents, there is no substitute for you. We are blessed at Lord of Lords to have active Sunday School teachers to train our little ones. We will be starting a youth group soon for regular Teen Bible studies and activities. Lord willing, we'll be making a trip next summer to the WELS International Youth Rally.We are blessed to have 362 early childhood ministries, 284 Lutheran elementary schools, 29 area Lutheran high schools, 2 Preparatory schools, Martin Luther College, and Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in the WELS. You support this Christian education in our church and church body with your offerings, prayers, efforts, and encouragement.But the primary responsibility for the spiritual education and edification of children continues to reside with parents and grandparents. Not putting God's Word into the hearts, souls, and minds of your children is like sending your kids to school with no shoes, no lunch, and no lunch money. They are unprepared for the world.Your children and grandchildren are little lambs in Christ's flock. Christ is the Great Shepherd of the sheep (Hebrews 11:20). He has assigned you to be his under-shepherds in the pasture of your home. The Devil is a roaring lion roaming around, seeking to devour your little lambs (1 Peter 5:18). He is the Enemy who seeks to rip faith from your child's soul.Swing the sword of the Spirit against the lion's neck. Strike the lion against the cheek with your Catechism. Save the lambs from the lion's mouth by reminding them of their Baptism. Call upon God's angelic warriors for protection with your prayers.As you read God's Word together, have spiritual discussions of how to put God's Word into practice. Discuss school events, political events, and current events with a Christian worldview.Talk about your faith regularly and how it influences the decisions in your life. This allows them to know Christianity is not confined to one day a week. It influences every activity whether walking or talking, in the morning, afternoon, or evening.Model your faith. Demonstrate repentance. Accept Christ's forgiveness. Joyfully serve the Lord in all you do. Your kids and grandkids will notice. Then they'll want to emulate you.In the words of President Bading, a well has been dug in our synod. Now it's up to you to saturate yourself and your family in God's Word – inside and out. We thank the Lord of the Church for digging this well of the Water of Life with our Seminary, colleges, high schools, prep schools, elementary schools, and Sunday Schools. But you parents and grandparents are on the front lines. Research confirms you are the most significant influence on your young people's spiritual development. What you do now will influence the rest of their lives. This is Christ working through you. "Teach them diligently to your children, and speak about them when you sit in your house and when you walk on the road, when you lie down and when you get up" (Deuteronomy 6:7). Amen.God has entrusted to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, inasmuch as God is making an appeal through us (2 Corinthians 5:20-21). Amen.View this sermon (with video and/or audio recording) on our website: https://www.casperwels.com/sermons/christ-through-us/

In this episode of The Lutheran History Podcast, Dr. John M. Brenner joins to share insights from his recent article on Professor Siegbert W. Becker, a major voice in confessional Lutheran theology during the 20th century. Listeners will be introduced to Becker's life, teaching, and legacy, and gain a better understanding of the challenges he faced—and the convictions he held—in a time of great theological unrest.Becker's story spans some of the most critical decades in American Lutheranism. Raised in the Missouri Synod and later serving in the Wisconsin Synod, he became known for his deep commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture, his courage in confronting theological compromise, and his sharp but accessible writing style. Dr. Brenner discusses Becker's role during the years leading up to the WELS/LCMS split, particularly his concern over growing liberalism and the erosion of biblical authority in the seminary classroom.Despite his formidable intellect—fluent in multiple languages, trained in theology and apologetics—Becker was known for his humility, clarity, and pastoral heart. Through stories from former students and colleagues, Dr. Brenner paints a picture of a man who taught the faith not only in lecture halls, but also through his personal example of faithfulness, gentleness, and humor.Listeners will come away with a renewed appreciation for the importance of doctrinal clarity, the dangers of theological drift, and the enduring need for pastors and teachers who speak the truth in love. Dr. Brenner also shares reflections on what Becker's legacy can teach us today—and where interested readers can start exploring his work.Whether you're familiar with Becker's writings or discovering him for the first time, this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring look at one of confessional Lutheranism's most important 20th-century theologians.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship The Wauwatosa Diary (book) Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the HostBenjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards from the Concordia Historical Institute.Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis. ...

The Church is well prepared for the end times - in which we now live - because the Holy Spirit is empowering it. More on this with Professor Luke Thompson from Martin Luther College. 

In this episode of The Lutheran History Podcast, we talk with Dr. Timothy D. Grundmeier about his recent article, “Pennsylvania's ‘Youthful Daughter': Reexamining the Early History of the Wisconsin Synod,” featured in the Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly (Spring 2025). While many are familiar with the Wisconsin Synod's early ties to German mission societies and eventual fellowship with the Missouri Synod, Dr. Grundmeier highlights an often underappreciated chapter in WELS history: its formative partnership with the Pennsylvania Synod. Drawing on rich archival sources, he paints a fuller picture of how eastern Lutherans supported and shaped the growing church in the Midwest through financial aid, pastoral connections, and shared theological commitments. This episode invites listeners to reflect on the blessings of intersynodical cooperation and the broader roots of confessional Lutheranism in America.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship The Wauwatosa Diary (book) Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the HostBenjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben has been a regular writer and presenter on various Lutheran history topics. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of several awards from the Concordia Historical Institute.Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis. ...

Jesus called twelve men to follow him as his disciples. He later sent them out as apostles. John 1 records the calling of the first four. Professor Keith Wessel, a teacher of God's Word at Martin Luther College, is to here take us through this account. 

More on the Beatitudes, including the blessed promise from Jesus about persecution against his people. Professor Paul Koelpin, Martin Luther College is our returning guest. 

The Beatitudes introduce Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Professor Paul Koelpin from Martin Luther College is here to share insight on these precious words from our Savior. 

In this special episode, guest host Tim Grundmeier interviews historian and author Benjamin T. Phelps about his recent Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly article on Dr. Henry A. Koch—a pastor, professor, and editor who left a profound mark on confessional Lutheranism in both Germany and America. Phelps shares personal insights drawn from years of research, including access to Koch's letters, diary, and unpublished materials preserved by his family. Together, they trace Koch's theological formation in Wauwatosa, his academic work in Leipzig, his resistance to Nazi ideology, and his return to America without a call during the Great Depression. The conversation explores Koch's role in rebuilding fractured congregations, his deep concern for doctrinal faithfulness, and his controversial but principled opposition to the Missouri Synod's growing unionism. Through it all, Koch remained committed to the Lutheran confession and the gospel ministry—living out the motto he printed for decades in the Gemeinde-Blatt: Halte, was du hast—Hold fast what you have.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

This is a special episode of a presentation I prepared for the Society of German American Studies symposium in April in Milwaukee.--The year 2025 marks the 175th anniversary of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Originally established in the Milwaukee area as the Die erste deutsch. evang.-luth. Synode von Wisconsin, this German immigrant ecclesiastical organization, immediately needed printed materials in its native language that would serve the needs of its people in a new geographic and social setting.  The Wisconsin Synod primarily sought to preserve and transmit conservative confessional Lutheranism in the first several generations.  The motto, “Halte was du hast,” crowned the synod's first regular publication, the Gemeindeblatt.  Its message, “Hold what you have,” reflects the conservative concern of the ministers who encouraged Lutheran immigrants to preserve their faith and pass it on to future generations.  Wisconsin Synod leaders also recognized that as the synod faced new challenges and opportunities in its frontier immigrant context, it must also apply theological principles in ways that precluded simplistic repristination of the 16th century Reformation.  The resulting “Wauwatosa Theology” came to life in the German publications of the synod.  To meet the needs of its laity, pastors, and scholars, the Wisconsin Synod locally produced various printed materials in the German language to meet its high theological standards.  These German American Lutherans required many printed materials: hymnals, service agendas, synodical reports, catechisms, bibles, and devotional literature.   Regular publications: the Gemeindeblatt and the Theologische Quartalschrifft not only served to communicate to and inform laity and pastors within the Wisconsin Synod but also spread its news and theology across the nation and back to the German homeland.  The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod required German materials for well over a century—despite the erosion of a German-speaking demographic accelerated by two world wars.  In the post-war years, the synod experienced an irreversible transition from needing German materials to holding on to them for personal comfort.  Still, the synod continued to print officially in German regularly until 1970.  Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

In this WELS 175th episode, we talk with Joel Otto, the anniversary committee chairman, about the pictorial history book Christ Through Us, which he co-authored with John Braun.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

In this WELS 175th episode, we talk with Joel Otto, the anniversary committee chairman, about what WELS worship has looked like in the past and how it has changed.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

image: Adolph Hoenecke from the host's family photo collection.In this WELS 175th episode, we talk with Prof. James Danell who teaches German at Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN, about Adolph Hoenecke, who taught for many decades at the Wisconsin Synod's Seminary.  Prof. Danell speaks in this episode about his significant influence on the spirit and theology of the Wisconsin Synod.Not only does Danell teach the German language, but his advanced classes read through German Lutheran materials from the Reformation through the 19th and 20th century American Lutheran theologians.  His students, therefore, get to sharpen their German skills, study theology, and learn Church History--all at the same time!You can support the Confessional Language Scholarship here.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

One of the great teachings of Jesus is an answer to a question from Thomas: "Lord, how can we know the way?" Jesus said, "I am the way . . ." Professor Keith Wessel from Martin Luther College is here to help explain this verse and others from John 14. 

This is part of a longer conversation I had with Prof. James Danell about the imperative need for scholars who know German to do Lutheran history.You can support the Confessional Language Scholarship at MLC to encourage this endeavor here.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Where is the Father's house? Here is a better question. How has Jesus prepared a place for us in the Father's house? Professor Keith Wessel from Martin Luther College is here to help us understand the opening verses of John 14. 

This is a cross-over episode with The Shepherd's Study Podcast, where I was a guest of Jared Natsis and Phil Moldenhauer.  We talked about the content and merits of the book Brand Luther which came out shortly before the Reformation 500th anniversary.The Shepherd's Study podcast is produced by Grow in Grace to help pastors grow in the art and practice of pastoral ministry. Each episode features Lutheran pastors discussing a book that is salient to their work.The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed are the speakers' own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary or the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only.Support the show Confessional Languages Scholarship Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

In this WELS 175 episode, we talk with Peter Prange about the third volume in his series, Wielding the Sword of the Spirit, in which he gets into the details and nuances of the Election Controversy that rocked the Synodical Conference.Support the show Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

The shepherds saw Jesus and shared. Mary saw Jesus and pondered. Both are beautifully appropriate reactions to our Savior's birth. Professor Aaron Dolan from Martin Luther College is back for a second look at the Christmas story as told by Dr. Luke. 

In this WELS 175th episode, Tim Grundmeier and I talk about who Johannes Muehlhaeuser was, Christmas trees, and the founding of the Wisconsin Synod.Support the show Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

The story of Christmas in Luke 2 has very familiar words to most Christians and, yet, they never get old. Professor Aaron Dolan from Martin Luther College helps us understand the details. 

Image: JP Koehler at Wauwatosa Seminary, candid photo taken by a student.While going through some old boxes in my grandfather's basement, I stumbled upon something truly remarkable: my great-grandfather's diary. He was a student at the Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary from 1910 to 1912 and had the unique opportunity to learn from the famous Wauwatosa theologians of that era. As you can imagine, this diary could be a treasure trove of insights into the life of a seminary student over a century ago.But here's the thing—the handwriting is challenging to decipher. It's very different from what we're used to today, and to do it justice, I need to hire professional transcribers who can carefully decode its contents. Only then can I start the process of translating and studying it. This project isn't just personally meaningful to me; it could also provide valuable historical insights, and I plan to use it as the basis for an article in the Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly Journal.Here's where I'm asking for your help. The cost of professional transcription is about $1500. To make this project a reality, I've set up a crowdfunding campaign. If this story resonates with you, if you're passionate about preserving history or just love a good discovery, I'd be incredibly grateful for your support. Whether you're able to contribute or just share the campaign with others, every bit helps.https://patreon.com/tlhp?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLinkSupport the show Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Link to the service and hymns: https://trinitylutheransd.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Reformation-Hymn-Festival-2024.pdf The first evangelical hymnal—which in retrospect we can also call the first Lutheran hymnal—rolled off the presses around the middle of January 1524. But interestingly, it did not roll off the presses in Wittenberg, even though the title page gave that impression, or even at Luther's instigation. It was printed by Jobst Gutknecht in Nuremberg, well over 200 miles to the south of Wittenberg, and apparently on his own initiative. Gutknecht compiled four hymns that had been individually published in Wittenberg on broadsheets in 1523 and 1524. He also obtained the texts of three additional Luther hymns, which were already being sung in services in Wittenberg. (There were no copyright laws back then, and printers regularly copied, reprinted, and sold works they obtained from elsewhere.) To these seven hymns he added one more anonymous one, which was possibly given to him in the composer's own manuscript. He published these eight hymns under the title:Some Christian Songs, Hymns of Praise, and Psalms, Produced in Conformity with the Pure Word of God from Holy Scripture by Various Well-Educated Men for Singing in Church, Just As Is Already Being Done with Some of Them in WittenbergSupport the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

From MPR News, Art Hounds are members of the Minnesota arts community who look beyond their own work to highlight what's exciting in local art. Their recommendations are lightly edited from the audio heard in the player above. Want to be an Art Hound? Submit here.Hankering for a crankeringNorah Rendell is the executive artistic director of the Center for Irish Music in St. Paul. She saw — and loved — the original storytelling musical “The Well Tree” by the Heartwood Trio last spring.  The trio consists of Sarina Partridge of Minneapolis, Heidi Wilson of Vermont and Willie Clemetson of Maine. They're back for performances of “The Well Tree” tonight at 7 p.m. at the Twin Cities Friends Meeting House in St. Paul and Friday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. at New City Center/Walker Church in Minneapolis. Norah says she imagines the acoustics of the church venues will be well-suited for a show with beautiful harmonies. Norah says: It's an original singing story performance that includes songs and instruments and acting and illuminated paper cut art called a “crankie” [so named because a person turns a crank to scroll to new images]. It tells a story of a young woman who finds herself running away from home, and along her journey, she meets songbirds and snails and ancient trees as she finds her way home. And the three artists who perform are super talented. They're beautiful harmony singers. There's a fiddle player, a banjo player and they're all actors and they invite the audience to sing along.  It seems like it would be geared towards children, but it really suits anybody of any age who loves the experience of singing together with other people. You leave the show feeling great; it's very inspiring, very positive. The show itself is really inspiring.— Norah RendellThe male gazeErin Maurelli is an artist and educator in the Twin Cities. She wants people to know about the MCBA / Jerome Book Arts Residency show which is up now at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts, inside Open Book in Minneapolis. Free and open to the public, this show displays the work of the three winners of the Jerome Book Arts Residency: photographer Christopher Selleck; papermaker Jelani Ellis; and artist and printmaker Louise Fisher.  Erin says: Christopher Selleck is a photographer who takes on the body, the figure and what we think of as idealism, and through the lens of the camera, he's able to capture kind of the ideal masculine body — which, in my experience, we don't see a lot of that in art and art history. Christopher brings issues of identity and sexuality into his work as a gay man, I think the male gaze becomes part of his narrative. Christopher was selected to be part of the Jerome book arts fellowship, and the show is through January 4 of next year. He's one of three artists that are part of that show, there are some hand-crafted books featuring his photographs as well as sculptural elements. He's exploring bringing the photographic process into bookmaking.  — Erin MorelliBaroque in GaylordCharles Luedtke is a retired professor of music at Martin Luther College in New Ulm, and he is heading to Gaylord tonight to see La Grande Bande. The group specializes in performing music written from 1600-1800, using instruments of the period. Their November concert celebrates the 340th birthday of Handel with two of his works set near water, his famed “Water Music Suites” as well as his cantata “O come chiare e belle.”  Handel's "Water Musicks" is tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Gaylord. Michael Thomas Asmus, the founder and artistic director, will give a talk before the performance at 6:45 about the music. Charles says: It's rather spectacular because he lives in Gaylord, just outside of Gaylord and his music performances have been kind of centered around that area, sometimes in St. Peter, sometimes in New Ulm. So, it's kind of local, but [it's] tremendous quality. They're not amateurs, never amateurs. They are all really professional performers and on period instruments — baroque instruments.— Charles Luedtke

Timothy Plichta is a WELS homeschooled high school student living in Germantown, WI. He loves Lutheran history in general and is especially enthralled with anything related to the CELC.Blue Grit Podcast: The Voice of Texas Law EnforcementHost: Clint McNear and Tyler Owen discussing topics, issues, and stories within the...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

The resurrection of Jesus is a sign that Jesus is who he says he is: the Son of God and your Savior from sign and death. Jesus called it "the sign of Jonah." Professor Paul Koelpin from Martin Luther College is here to help us learn. 

This episode is a fuller version of my presentation given at the 2024 Lutheran Historical Conference in Baltimore. Link to the full video of this episode.One church historian observed that “ It would require pages and pages to report Wyneken's work during his pastorate [in Baltimore].”  This episode will examine one specific topic- how Wyneken contested for a genuine Lutheran identity and practice in the following arenas in Baltimore:2nd German Evangelical Lutheran ChurchEvangelical Lutheran General SynodForming the German Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, etc.The IOOF, Red Men, and other lodgeshttps://youtu.be/T9m8usSbwSESupport the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

In chapter 2 of Ruth, we see generous kindness from Boaz to Ruth. That is where God hides. When you receive kindness, realize that God is behind that. Dr. Mark Paustian, from Martin Luther College, explains that and more as we continue this beautiful story of God's love. 

Image: Johannes BugenhagenDuring the Reformation Martin Luther restored many Christian teachings to its proper biblical understanding. One of the men who worked with Luther in communicating those teachings was Johannes Bugenhagen. This episode explores one specific way Bugenhagen communicated the doctrine of the Two Kingdoms in The Christian Order of the Honorable City of Braunschweig. His answer to the question is especially evident in the section of this Kirchenordnung that deals with relief for the poor.Support the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Image U.V. Koren “How is our America doing?” That is the poignant question that C.F.W. Walther (1811 1887), the President of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, asks in his Synod's theological journal, “Lehre und Wehre” in 1863. In a series of articles written in the Spring of that year, on the eve of the Civil War, Walther addressed topics such as slavery, abolitionism, the nature of America as having been founded on “Enlightenment” principles, as well as how Lutherans can remain faithful to God's Word in the face of fiery political debates in a democratic context. Of course, Walther was grappling with a much broader question that endures to this day among Lutherans living in America, and that is, what does it mean to be both an “American” and a “Lutheran”? Rev. Andrew Soule discusses the views of Clausen, Koren, and Walther.Support the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Image: city of Brunswick (Braunschweig) in the 16th centuryIn Becoming Lutheran, Dr. John Maxfield discusses several key aspects of Lutheran culture that shape the identity and practice of Lutherans as the Reformation grew and developed outside of the center of Wittenberg.  The story of Brunswick engages with Reformation historiography in a way that takes genuine religious convictions seriously as pamphlets and preaching spread the Gospel to every level of society.Support the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Send us a Text Message.We welcome back Pastor Scott Henrich, a WELS pastor serving in Knoxville, Tennessee.  His experiences reading historic Lutheran sermons inspired him to research Lutheranism's homiletical heritage in a way that may challenge some contemporary assumptions about the historic perception of Lutheran preaching. (See TLHP 39)You can contact him here: scottwhenrich@gmail.comToday he offers further thoughts and research after studying Walther's Pastoral Theology."While C. F. W. Walther needs no introduction for conservative American Lutherans, his Pastoral Theology does. Originally published in 1872, it was not translated into English in its entirety until 2017. (An abridged version, found under various titles, was published in 1995.) In it, Walther condenses a tradition of over 300 years of Lutheran pastoral practice. In a purely historical sense, it is a contribution of great interest, without which the non-specialist would be cut off from centuries of his heritage. Walther's project, however, goes beyond remembrance, or even repristination. The “American” in the book's original title (Americanisch-Lutherische Pastoraltheologie) was no accident (3). His intent was to help pastors apply that heritage, mined from God's Word and initially expressed in the state churches of Europe, to their own time and place. To that end especially, this book is a gift to the Lutheran pastor." -S.H.Support the Show. Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Turn up the volume for WELSTech as we talk fantasy and escapism from a Christian perspective with Silas Dose. Martin has a trackpad pick and WELSTech friend, Philip Wels has been busy at the video editing desk crafting a video that captures the joy and excitement of graduation and assignment at Martin Luther College. The […]

Turn up the volume for WELSTech as we talk fantasy and escapism from a Christian perspective with Silas Dose. Martin has a trackpad pick and WELSTech friend, Philip Wels has been busy at the video editing desk crafting a video that captures the joy and excitement of graduation and assignment at Martin Luther College. The […]

Heather R. Darsie lives in the United States. She has a Bachelor of Arts in German Languages and Literature, and a Juris Doctorate. During her time at university, she had the privilege of studying in Costa Rica and France, with visits to Germany and other countries.Ms. Darsie first became interested in the Renaissance time period when she read a biography about Elizabeth I of England. She found Elizabeth I to be very inspiring and her world to be both foreign and familiar.Ms. Darsie has spent the last ten years researching the history of the Holy Roman Empire. This has helped her gain perspective as to the political world stage during the Renaissance.As a bibliophile, she turned her attention to illuminated manuscripts. She is learning more each day and is glad to share it with you.  Today we talk about Lutheran connections to the House of Cleves.Her book:  Children of the House of Cleves: Anna and Her Siblingshttps://maidensandmanuscripts.com/Support the Show. Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Image: Martin Luther by Lucas Cranach the Younger"Wittenberg Uses of Law and Gospel"Our guest today Dr. Robert A. Kolb is a professor emeritus of Systematic Theology at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.  See the emeritus faculty page at Concordia Lutheran Seminary:Kolb retired in 2009 after 16 years of distinguished service as missions professor of Systematic Theology and Concordia Lutheran Seminary in St. Louis. Before joining the Seminary, he served as director of the Center for Reformation Research, and in various teaching roles in the religion and history departments at Concordia College in St. Paul, Minn.  He has taken much time over many years to teach abroad. He also has been involved in several boards—serving both officially on behalf of the LCMS on commissions, and a leader of 16th century and Reformation societies. There is not enough time to list everything he has written, but I included a selection today: He is the author of several books, including The Christian Faith: A Luther Exposition; The Genius of Luther's Theology: A Wittenberg Way of Thinking for the Contemporary Church with Dr. Charles Arand; Studies of the Interpretation of Holy Scripture in the Sixteenth and Seventeenth Century; Lutheran Ecclesiastical Culture, 1550-1675; Bound Choice, Election, and Wittenberg Theological Method from Martin Luther to the Formula of Concord; Sources and Contexts of the Book of Concord, co-edited with James A. Nestingen; Teaching God's Children His Teaching, a Guide to the Study of Luther's Catechism; and the list goes on. Perhaps where his name is on most Lutheran bookshelves is in the Book of Concord—he was one of the editors and translators of the most used English edition today. He also has written more than 100 articles and a collection of essays.  One of the most recent, titled Wittenberg Uses of Law and Gospel, was published in the Fall edition of the 2023 Lutheran Quarterly and is the focus of this podcast episode.Support the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

This beautiful story starts off with profound sadness and then gets into one of the greatest cluster of verses in all of Scripture, this according to our guest, Dr. Mark Paustian from Martin Luther College. Enjoy Ruth chapter one. 

The book of Ruth is a beautiful love story, but so much more. Dr. Mark Paustian from Martin Luther College is here to lead us into this true story that highlights the faithfulness of God. 

Understanding the structure of the Gospels, helps with understanding the content of the Gospels. Professor Paul Koelpin from Martin Luther College is here to aid our understanding of both. 

Image:  Wittenberg c. 1530 from the host's personal collection.In May 1536 several prominent Reformed reformers traveled to Wittenberg to confess their understanding of what is received in the sacrament of Holy Communion and who receives it.  Luther, Melancthon, and other Lutheran reformers readily signed on in agreement concerning this contentious doctrine.  This was seen as a significant breakthrough and a celebrated establishment of fellowship and would later directly influence the Formula of Concord.Read more about this topic here in Gordon Jensen's book.Support the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

In this episode, translator Michael Holmen takes us through J. W. F. Höfling's How the Lutheran Church is Constituted (Grundsätze evangelisch-lutherischer Kirchenverfassung).In his book Höfling describes how the Lutheran church should be constituted according to the principles given in the Lutheran Confessions and in Martin Luther's writings. Höfling sees the teachings of church and ministry in the Lutheran church as being very different from what the Roman Catholic church teaches. In the wake of the 1848 revolutions, he is also concerned about the loss of the sovereigns as the Summepiskopat of the churches in Germany. He offers his advice for how the churches should work towards structuring themselves in the wake of these new conditions.This third edition of his work has extensive endnotes, which are often more like excurses, where he elaborates on what he has said in previous editions and responds to objections from opponents.Support the show Lutheran History Shop Youtube ( even more behind-the-scenes videos available for certain patron tiers) Facebook Website Interview Request Form email: thelutheranhistorypodcast@gmail.com About the Host Benjamin Phelps is a 2014 graduate from Martin Luther College with a Bachelor of Arts with a German emphasis. From there went on to graduate from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in 2018. Ben loves all things history and enjoys traveling. A descendant of over a dozen Lutheran pastors, Ben has an interest in his family roots, especially 19th-century Lutheranism, and has written several papers and journal articles on the topic. His 2018 thesis on Wyneken won the John Harrison Ness award and the Abdel Ross Wentz prize. He is also the recipient of two awards of commendation from the Concordia Historical Institute. Ben is currently a doctoral student in historical theology through Concordia Seminary's reduced residency program in St. Louis.

Link from Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/883352600  Rev. David Scharf, professor of Theology at Martin Luther College, New Ulm, Minn., presented a breakout session at the WELS National Conference on Lutheran Leadership, held Jan. 2023 in Chicago, Ill. In his session, “Leadership matters: How to identify and develop leaders to multiply ministry,” Scharf discussed the importance, not just of identifying potential leaders, but providing the organizational and spiritual training needed to lead in Christ's church. Show Notes Contact the Podcast: RWJPodcast@gmail.com or www.raisedwithjesus.com/podcast  Click here to find a nearby congregation or church home.   yearbook.wels.net All rights reserved. Content used at this podcast comes from a variety of locations & sources.     Ask the Pastor requests: https://forms.gle/qqXHSwcerd5aPRUZ6    Resisting the Dragon's Beast notes:  Pastor Zarling's Book, Resisting the Dragon's Beast: https://a.co/d/33vpeyf  Fan Mail, questions, and comments: resistingthedragonsbeast@gmail.com   For more about the concept of “democide” – https://www.hawaii.edu/powerkills/20TH.HTM   Tulsa Race Massacre – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tulsa_race_massacre     Gene Strusz's books: Morning Prayers for a Christian School: https://a.co/d/ajUEV8A  Essays on Coaching Christian Athletes: https://a.co/d/7HfQ5tk    Dr. John Brug's Lulu Store: https://www.lulu.com/search?contributor=John+Brug    Grace Abounds Reading Guides:  https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/19Tw74cyqt4ZNRcGpwjJ6l1XsT0ldhyxj    CW21 Daily Lectionary:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PN_RWjgV4wnvFALd8f4Hu3MvWAo8Jgh-/view?usp=sharing    Casting Nets Podcast: https://castingnetspod.podbean.com/ Apple   Spotify Contact Casting Nets: castingnetspod@gmail.com    Bethlehem Lutheran Church - Carmel, IN https://www.youtube.com/@bethlehemindiana    St. Stephen Lutheran Church - Adrian, MI https://www.youtube.com/@st.stephenevangelicalluthe7852    Impact Podcast - St. Andrew, Middleton WI https://st-andrew-online.org/impact/  RSS Link: https://feeds.libsyn.com/314675/rss    Prince of Peace - Thousand Oaks, CA https://www.princeofpeaceto.com  https://www.youtube.com/c/PrinceofPeaceTO/featured    Upside-Down Savior (Pastor Nate Nass) https://www.youtube.com/@upside-downsavior-pastorna1482    Water of Life Lutheran Church - Caledonia & Racine, WI https://www.wateroflifelutheran.com  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcICs1dldnmZ-rcBqs4QtVQ    Life Challenges Podcast https://christianliferesources.com/life-challenges-podcast/    Dust and Breath Podcast https://dustandbreathpod.buzzsprout.com/1071946  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dust-and-breath/id1504141389?uo=4  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Luw8MfSUa2bcA8ljaomu5  Google Play: https://podcasts.google.com/?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8xMDcxOTQ2LnJzcw==    St. Paul Lutheran Church - Ottawa, ON, Canada https://www.stpaulottawa.org/  https://www.youtube.com/c/StPaulOttawa    Worship at the Anvil Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worship-at-the-anvil/id1601290288  https://anchor.fm/s/6f8bf9b0/podcast/rss  Also on Spotify.   Martin Luther College - New Ulm, MN https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG3EyO6dSM4-5Ujr2HM9ExA    His Word 360 (WLS Prof. Rev. Stephen Geiger) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd542RpYW_KSrkEBUSNw-Lg    WELS Streams: https://www.youtube.com/c/welsstreams    WELS Congregational Services: https://vimeo.com/welscongserve  https://vimeo.com/wels    Point of Grace Campus Ministry https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsI7Z5KbPwLdHeIVj_l1z_A    Pilgrim Lutheran Church - Menomonee Falls WI https://www.youtube.com/user/pilgrimlutheran  Through My Bible readings by Rev. Martin Spriggs.  Audio accessed at https://wels.net/serving-you/bible/through-my-bible-archive/  Produced 2023 by Pastor Hagen: pastorhagen@icloud.com or (419) 262-8280  Music from Joseph McDade: https://josephmcdade.com #raisedwithjesus #lutheran #sanctification #toledome #toledo #welstoledo #jesus #bible #podcast #dailyjesus #jesusdaily #rwjpodcast #jesusfortoledo  Resurrection - Maumee: Family Bible Hour at 10:15 AM, Worship on Sundays at 9 AM & 11:15 AM 2250 S. Holland Sylvania Rd - Maumee, OH Contact RWJ: RWJPodcast@gmail.com (419) 262-8280 CCLI Copyright License 11582729 and Streaming License 20003552 

00:00 - Introduction 00:00 - Free-for-All (No Free-for-All) 05:45 - Main Topic (The Guys Talk Words) In episode TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY-ONE, Wade, Mike, Jason and Mark Paustian (a returning guest) from Martin Luther College recorded from Jason's basement compound. We thank Mark for joining us after his wonderful Veritas lecture at St. John's, Mukwonago. You can check out his new podcast, Where Two or Three, wherever you catch your podcasts and his most recent book, Our Worth to Him, at Northwestern Publishing House. We hope you enjoy the episode! Let the Bird Fly! is supported by the 1517 Podcast Network, which is part of 1517.org. If you haven't done so yet, stop over there and check out the other great podcasts in the network, as well as all of the other excellent content they offer. You can find them all on Apple Podcasts. You can support the network here. You support is greatly appreciated and helps the network continue to produce and provide this content for free for a world in desperate need of good news and true freedom. More 1517 content can also be found on YouTube.  What's New from 1517: Join the 1517 Academy Freedom Lessons Street Team Tune in Oct. 26 – Oct. 28th for 1517's 2023 annual national conference -- C.S. Lewis & the Untamed God. It's sold out, but you can still join it through the FREE hosted livestream. For the first time ever, we will be hosting the HWSS livestream, with exclusive interviews and experiences only available on the livestream. Tune in to this free three-day conference and rest in your forgiveness with us. FREE 2023 Advent Resources: God was the first tailor, seamstress, and cobbler. He covered Adam and Eve's shame and nakedness with garments of animal skin. He designed and instructed the Israelites on the priestly wardrobe of the Tabernacle. And now he clothes his children in the righteousness of Jesus, our King, who first came to us wrapped in swaddling clothes before he hung naked on the cross. This Advent season, 1517 presents The Clothing of the King: a new free resource for churches that walks your congregation through the divine wardrobe God provides for his people. This all-in-one package includes a midweek Advent and Christmas Sermon Series for pastors to use in their congregations as well as music helps, original and suggested hymns, presenter slides, and more. We've also created a personal devotional for every day of the 2023 Advent Season, written by 1517 contributors. The Clothing of the King is available as a free download. Sign up today to get access. NWA Tickets are Now Available! Tickets are now on sale for the 2024 Here We Still Stand Regional Conference in Northwest Arkansas! Join 1517 May 3rd and 4th as they gather again at the iconic Meteor Theater in Bentonville, Arkansas, and celebrate the boundless grace of God in the gospel of Jesus. The 2024 theme will be “Grace and Peace in Christ” – get your tickets today. All Charges Dropped, Vol. 2. Dive into the pages of the second volume of All Charges Dropped, where the author Haroldo Camacho, a Certified Court Interpreter, invites you into the gripping world of courtrooms. These real-life narratives pull you into the heart of divorce cases, murder trials, and more, making you feel like you're right there in the audience. But these stories also lead you to something deeper—the ultimate courtroom of God's judgment seat. Through each tale, you'll find a common thread: "Your sins are forgiven." As you journey through these stories, you'll witness a shift from human justice to divine grace, where guilt is replaced by freedom and forgiveness reigns supreme. You can find the book here. A New Series from the Thinking Fellows – The Four Solas of the Reformation. This month, the Thinking Fellows Podcast is doing a four-episode series explaining the phrases grace alone, faith alone, Christ alone, and scripture alone. Many of the central teachings of Reformation theology are summed up in these “Sola” phrase...

00:00 - Introduction 00:00 - Free-for-All (No Free-for-All) 6:45 - Main Topic (Lutheran Colleges and the Formation of Students) In episode TWO HUNDRED AND FORTY-THREE, Mike, Wade (even though he was just supposed to work the board), Jason, Nick Schmoller, and Dave Scharf discuss Lutheran higher education and the formation of students. We thank our friends from Martin Luther College for joining us! We hope you enjoy the episode! We would like to thank our listeners for partnering with us during our annual Podcast Fundraiser. Together, listeners like you joined the 1517 Podcast Network in raising $68,000 dollars in support of our podcasting efforts. This financial support maintains and builds the 1517 podcast network's ability to declare and defend the Good News that you are forgiven and free on account of Christ alone in every episode. Please help us continue our mission by filling out the brief survey located in the show notes. Thank you again for your continued support of 1517 Podcast Network. Let the Bird Fly! is supported by the 1517 Podcast Network, which is part of 1517.org. If you haven't done so yet, stop over there and check out the other great podcasts in the network, as well as all of the other excellent content they offer. You can find them all on Apple Podcasts. You can support the network here. You support is greatly appreciated and helps the network continue to produce and provide this content for free for a world in desperate need of good news and true freedom. More 1517 content can also be found on YouTube.  What's New from 1517: Join the 1517 Academy Freedom Lessons Street Team Finding God in the Darkness: Hopeful Reflections from the Pits of Depression, Despair, and Disappointment by Bradley Gray More from the hosts Michael Berg Wade Johnston If you're enjoying the show, please subscribe, rate, and review us on the following sites and apps: iTunes Stitcher Google Play TuneIn Radio iHeartRadio You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram. You can also follow our Telegram Channel, where we post our new episodes as well as other content that we think you might enjoy. And, of course, share us with a friend or two! If you'd like to contact us we can be reached at podcast@LetTheBirdFly.com, or visit our website at www.LetTheBirdFly.com. Thanks for listening! Attributions for Music and Image used in this Episode: “The Last One” by Jahzzar is licensed under an Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 International License. “Gib laut” by Dirk Becker is licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives (aka Music Sharing) 3.0 International License. “Whistling Down the Road” by Silent Partner. “Not Drunk” by The Joy Drops is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.