Episodes

  • What Christians Should Know About Islam
    Sep 12 2025

    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 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Untamed Prayers: 365 Daily Devotions on Christ in the Book of Psalms by Chad Bird

    • Remembering Your Baptism: A 40-Day Devotional by Kathryn Morales

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • The Pivotal Influence of the Book of Romans on the Reformation
    Sep 4 2025

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

    Show Notes:

    • Support 1517 Podcast Network

    • 1517 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    • Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes

    • Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

    Show More Show Less
    49 mins
  • Freedom of the Christian
    Sep 2 2025

    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 1517 Podcast Network

    • The Freedom of the Christian
    • 1517 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    • Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes

    • Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

    Show More Show Less
    55 mins
  • Augustine of Hippo
    Aug 28 2025

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

    Show Notes:

    • Support 1517 Podcast Network

    • 1517 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    • Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes

    • Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • Justin Martyr Father of Apologetics
    Aug 18 2025

    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 Network

    • 1517 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    • Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes

    • Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

    Show More Show Less
    50 mins
  • Martin Luther And The Rule Of Faith
    Aug 6 2025

    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 their role in guiding believers in their interpretation of Scripture and their relationship with God.

    Show Notes:

    • Support 1517 Podcast Network

    • 1517 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    • Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes

    • Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

    Show More Show Less
    54 mins
  • C.F.W Walther: The Proper Distinction Between Law and Gospel
    Jul 29 2025

    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 promise are not merely theological slogans; they are the means by which God delivers faith and creates saints out of sinners.

    Show Notes:

    • Support 1517 Podcast Network

    • 1517 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    • Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes

    • Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

    Show More Show Less
    59 mins
  • Was Peter the First Pope?
    Jul 25 2025

    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 reality.

    Show Notes:

    • Support 1517 Podcast Network

    • 1517 Podcasts

    • 1517 on Youtube

    • 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts

    • 1517 Events Schedule

    • 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education

    What’s New from 1517:

    • Sinner Saint by Luke Kjolhaug

    • The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction by Donavan Riley

    • Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes

    • Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi

    More from the hosts:

    • Caleb Keith

    • Scott Keith

    • Adam Francisco

    • Bruce Hilman

    Show More Show Less
    47 mins