The Tim Ahlman Podcast

What does it truly mean to follow Christ? According to Dr. Michael Gorman, it goes far beyond simply believing the right doctrines. In this profound conversation, the renowned biblical scholar challenges us to consider whether we've been misreading the Apostle Paul all along. Dr. Michael Gorman shares his groundbreaking work on Pauline theology, exploring how Christians are called to not just...

Paul Dickerson, Associate Pastor at Christ Memorial Church, shares his journey from attorney to ministry and explores how business principles can transform church leadership and growth.  While Paul values liturgical practices and their powerful connection to historical faith, he challenges listeners to consider when rituals become roadblocks rather than pathways to Jesus. Through compelling storie...

What if one of the most "outdated" evangelism methods actually works better than we think? In this fascinating conversation, Pastor Timothy Koch dismantles the misconception that door-to-door evangelism belongs in the past and demonstrates how this approach is bringing people to Jesus in communities across America. • 33% of people in rural towns are unchurched, contrary to the misconcept...

Have you ever wondered how different cultures approach spiritual truth?  Noks Shabalala shares her journey from ancestral worship in South Africa to Christian faith, offering fresh cultural perspectives on boldly communicating gospel truth with love rather than diplomatic politeness. Her multicultural background and direct communication style challenge listeners to prioritize mission over traditio...

What if the entire Bible tells one cohesive story—and you're invited to play a part in it? Dr. Michael Goheen, author of "The Drama of Scripture," unpacks how understanding Scripture as a unified narrative transforms our spiritual lives and missional purpose. This narrative understanding transforms our approach to Scripture, vocation, and our role in God's kingdom. • The Missio...

Have you ever considered that God's questions might reveal more about you than your answers reveal about Him? When the Creator of the universe asks "Where are you?" or "Why do you doubt?" He's inviting us into something far deeper than a theological exercise. Charessa Koontz joins the podcast to discuss her new book "The 17 Questions of God and the Impact on Your...

What if our cultural moment isn't "post-Christian" but rather "pre-Christian"? This shift in perspective could transform how we approach ministry and evangelism in today's secular world. Dr. Dean Nadasdy, President Emeritus of the Minnesota South District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, draws from decades of ministry experience to share insights on effective le...

The catalyst for mission isn't found in strategy, resources, or technical knowledge—it's rooted in prayer. But not just any prayer. In this refreshingly honest conversation, Pastor Chris Paavola shares how his journey from worship director to church planter to established church pastor led him to a profound revelation: most Christians don't know how to pray conversationally with God...

What grounds us when everything seems to be in constant flux? Dr. John Nordling, Professor of Exegetical Theology at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, brings refreshing clarity to this question through his unique lens as both a classicist and Lutheran theologian. *Disclaimer* - this episode was recorded prior to the Apology Video by Pastor Tim which you can find here • Understanding th...

What if developing youth leaders wasn't about having the coolest, most relatable youth pastor? What if the most effective behaviors for nurturing young servant leaders were actually accessible to anyone willing to show up consistently? Jonathan Kopecky and Jackie Druckhammer share findings from their Youth Leadership Initiative research project, revealing vital behaviors that help develop you...

The Shroud of Turin contains mysteries that have baffled scientists for decades, offering compelling evidence for the resurrection of Jesus through radiation signatures that cannot be explained by conventional science. • A detailed exploration of the Shroud of Turin's physical characteristics, including the negative image containing 3D information • Scientific evidence showing the image is no...

Through honest conversation about modern parenting challenges, Adam Griffin shares how Christian families can create a discipleship-centered home culture that nurtures genuine faith in children while freeing parents from perfectionistic anxiety. • Anxiety in middle-class American parenting stems from making everything important and measurable • The gospel offers freedom from perfectionism without...

Pastor Gabe Kasper explores how our networked, globalized world has fractured into competing narratives about meaning and purpose—and why the gospel offers the transcendent perspective we desperately need. • Aiming for happiness directly will never work; we must aim for something greater • Modern culture offers four primary narratives: moralism, hedonism, therapeutic mindset, and nihilism • Leader...

Pastor Jason Schleicher shares insights from his new book "Good Lord: A Not So Shocking Look at the Goodness of God," exploring how we can recognize divine goodness even amid life's struggles and pain. • God's goodness is visible throughout creation—from breathtaking landscapes to the intricacy of our bodies • Starting with listening is crucial when people question God's g...

Kim Marxhausen shares invaluable insights on caring for caregivers, drawing from her personal experience with in-laws who had dementia and her professional background in educational psychology. She explores how brain science, emotional intelligence, and faith-based practices create sustainable patterns for those supporting others through illness or aging. • Understanding primary vs secondary emoti...

Sarah Crowder shares her approach to teaching high school theology, creating inclusive spaces where students feel valued, and uncovering hidden stories of the Reformation while addressing Gen Z's unique challenges. If you're a parent trying to help your teenager through their faith journey, finding someone who's gone through it before can help you know you're not alone. The gos...

Transforming leadership through faith and vulnerability. Join us in discovering Julie Eesley’s inspiring journey from teacher to Executive Director at King of Kings Lutheran Church.  • Journey from education to church leadership  • Importance of embracing one's unique experiences  • Roles of executive directors in advancing church missions  • Creating welcoming environments for newcomers  • E...

The episode explores the core characteristics of effective pastoral leadership, emphasizing the need for confidence in faith and strong emotional intelligence. Bill discusses the importance of knowing congregants by name and engaging them in ministry, highlighting the dangers of clericalism and advocating for a culture where all believers actively participate in nurturing their faith.  • Character...

Josh Dotzler shares a compelling narrative of how purpose transforms lives through community revitalization and leadership development. His experience highlights the importance of addressing systemic issues while fostering local talent for lasting impact. • Discusses the transition from sports to community service • Explores the challenges of urban revitalization and systemic inequities • Highligh...

This episode emphasizes the importance of aligning our lives with God's mission through active participation in our communities. By sharing personal stories and insights, Greg Finke illustrates how everyday discipleship transforms lives and encourages listeners to embrace their role in loving and serving others.  • Importance of recognizing God's calling in our lives  • The role of commu...

Pat Hickcox shares his remarkable journey from a military background through struggles with PTSD and a fractured relationship with faith to the founding of Alpine Cowboy Church. His experiences underscore the importance of love, community, and personal vulnerability in healing and returning to a life of purpose. • Pat's military service and initial disconnection from faith  • The role of rela...

Ever wondered how to balance the demands of ministry with the joys and challenges of parenting? Join us as we engage in a meaningful conversation with Andy Ritchie, the senior pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, who shares his personal journey of spiritual leadership and family life. Through his stories, we uncover the triumphs and setbacks that have shaped his ministry and the unanticipated joys...

This episode explores the impactful journey of educator Kayla Marty, who emphasizes the integration of faith in education. Through her innovative approach at Ignite within Concordia Lutheran Schools, she shares insights on overcoming doubt, the importance of community in education, and how humility in leadership fosters growth. • Kayla's story of faith and education • Overcoming doubt and tru...

This episode dives deep into the importance of trauma-informed care within faith communities. We discuss the need for churches to shift their focus from outreach to nurturing spiritual formation and creating safe environments for healing.  • David Ruybalid shares his journey from a traumatic upbringing to becoming a pastor  • The significance of music in worship as a form of healing and connection...

The Tim Ahlman Podcast will have three primary focuses.  Leadership: Learning from “experts” in a variety of vocations (within and outside of the LCMS) and applying their expertise to leadership life in the local church. These conversations will largely focus on developing and maintaining a healthy culture in our various vocations. Over 60% of you in the recent survey said you wanted to talk about...