Thinking Fellows

In this fun episode, the Thinking Fellows take turns sharing some of their least-favorite phrases or platitudes that Christians use. They discuss how these platitudes can discourage fellow believers and how they often function as a way to fill silence while avoiding the real vocational needs of our neighbors. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Netwo...

As we close out 2025, 1517 and the Podcast Network are asking listeners to support our mission to declare and defend the good news that you are forgiven and free on account of Christ. This Advent, we're focusing on how Christ alone brings sinners home. That's the message we proclaim week after week through podcasts, sermon helps, videos, and articles and it's the message your financial support car...

The Thinking Fellows examine the Ligonier 2025 State of Theology Survey. They identify a major recurring theme: Christians are contradicting themselves. Fundamental questions about the nature of God, the authority of Scripture, and the work of Jesus are answered correctly by most respondents. However, the same individuals then give contradictory answers to adjacent questions such as the nature of...

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows, we take a closer look at the growing interest in Thomas Aquinas especially among younger evangelicals and even many Lutherans. We talk through why Aquinas is appealing to so many today, but also why the Lutheran Reformers pushed back on key parts of his theology. That includes the big questions of grace, salvation, and whether human effort plays any role in...

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints regularly presents itself as a Christian church. In this episode, the Thinking Fellows examine what Mormons get wrong about Christianity and how LDS doctrine leads its followers to worship a false god. Mormonism is not Christian; it is a fabricated religion built on teachings that contradict the Gospel and the historic faith.  Show Notes: Support 151...

In this live episode of the Thinking Fellows, Caleb, Scott, Steve, and Adam discuss why Martin Luther's  The Bondage of the Will is one of the most important yet most overlooked works of the Reformation. They explore why Luther's debate with Erasmus still matters today and how ignoring this work can lead to confusion about human will, divine grace, and the Gospel itself. Rather than being a cold p...

What led Martin Luther to write The Bondage of the Will ? This podcast explores the historical background and central message of one of Luther's most significant works. Written as a response to Erasmus, Luther's book defends the biblical truth that salvation is not the result of human choice or effort but rests entirely on God's gracious will. The Bondage of the Will delivers a message of profound...

Singing is one of the most recognizable parts of Christian worship. But why do Christians sing hymns? Where did hymns come from? And why should the church continue to sing them? Caleb and Scott Keith are joined by Dr. Steve Mueller from Concordia University Irvine to answer these questions. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcast...

Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, Scott Keith, and Bruce Hillman explore the linguistic challenges faced by individuals transitioning from evangelical backgrounds to Lutheranism. They discuss the distinctions between Christian terms, the role of tradition in defining these terms, and the importance of confessional documents in maintaining doctrinal clarity. The Fellows also touch on cultural and instit...

Lord protect us, keep us, bring comfort and assurance to the Kirk family, and send us evermore to proclaim Your death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins. Article at 1517:   Video version

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

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the Fellows discuss the Book of Romans, exploring its pivotal role in the Reformation, its didactic nature, and the genius of Paul's argumentation. The episode focuses on how Romans provides comfort and assurance to believers, emphasizing the personal nature of salvation and the continuity of God's promises throughout the text. The conversation unde...

Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, Scott Keith, and Bruce Hillman delve into Martin Luther's, 'The Freedom of a Christian.' They explore the historical context of the Reformation, particularly the year 1520, and discuss the significance of Luther's teachings on justification by faith, the authority of scripture (Sola Scriptura), and the relationship between faith and good works.  Show Notes: Support 151...

This episode is a conversation about the life and influence of Augustine of Hippo. The Fellows cover Augustine's historical context, his theological contributions, particularly regarding original sin and the nature of love, and his lasting impact on both Protestant and Catholic traditions. The Fellows also delve into the relationship between Augustine and Martin Luther, examining how Augustine's i...

The Thinking Fellows explore the life and significance of Justin Martyr, an early Christian apologist. They focus on the challenges Justin faced, and his example for contemporary apologetics. Justin's work also highlights the distinction between apologetics and polemics, emphasizing defending the Christian faith against external criticisms and internal heresies. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Ne...

The Thinking Fellows are joined by Todd Hains to discuss the concept of the Rule of Faith as articulated by Martin Luther. Todd explains the significance of the Ten Commandments, the Apostles' Creed, and the Lord's Prayer in shaping Christian doctrine and practice. The discussion delves into how these elements serve as a catechetical foundation for both preaching and personal faith, emphasizing th...

The Thinking Fellows podcast breaks down C.F.W. Walther's classic work The Proper Distinction Between Law and Gospel. This episode offers a brief introduction to Walther and explores why properly distinguishing between Law and Gospel is a vital task for every Christian preacher. Distinguishing Law and Gospel is one of the most difficult yet essential tasks of the Christian life. Command and promis...

Caleb, Scott, and Adam take up the question: was Peter the first pope? They follow this with a conversation about why contemporary Lutherans need not long for the ecclesiology of Rome or the papacy. In the second half of the episode, the Fellows discuss the growing number of pastoral vacancies in the LCMS. They encourage patience and thoughtful reflection as congregations navigate this challenging...

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, Bruce Hillman, Scott Keith, and I take a look at the difference between the comfort that comes from the gospel and the kind of therapeutic language that's become common in our culture. We talk about how this language has crept into everyday life—including the church—and how it ends up reshaping the way people think about faith, identity, and communi...

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, hosts Caleb Keith, Bruce Hillman, and Scott Keith engage in a free-for-all discussion. They explore the differences between the James Bond books and movies, delve into the theological significance of infant baptism, and discuss the historical context of Mao's Great Famine. The conversation also explores the shifting dynamics of young men in the chur...

Caleb, Scott, and Adam recorded their annual live show at the Here We Still Stand regional conference in Northwest Arkansas. They cover multiple topics, including concerns about IVF advancements and technology, the Shroud of Turin, and the importance of family.  Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser! 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Sch...

The Thinking Fellows discuss their church pet peeves; habits or developments that get under their skin and why. This episode offers a chance to have a little fun as each host vents and explains their perspective. Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network Fundraiser! 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education Wh...

In this episode, the hosts delve into the reliability of the Bible, with a particular focus on the moral content of scripture and its implications for one's faith. They discuss how younger generations perceive the Bible as unreliable due to its moral teachings, particularly in relation to contemporary cultural values. Christianity does have a clear moral vision, but most importantly, it finds its...

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hillman assert the trustworthiness of Scripture. They discuss the importance of biblical inerrancy, the implications of textual variants, and the transparency of the Christian tradition in handling manuscript evidence. The conversation underscores the importance of a thoughtful approach to understanding Scriptu...

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the hosts explore the complexities of Lutheran identity, particularly in relation to Catholicism. They discuss the meanings of 'Catholic' in both small and large contexts. What are the historical implications and the ongoing challenges of using the word "catholic?" The fellows discuss the effectiveness and downfalls of ecumenical movements that rall...