The Concordia Publishing House Podcast

What can a 19th-century history of a 16th-century Lutheran school teach us about education today? More than you might expect. Dr. Gene Edward Veith, Jr. joins us to discuss a new translation from Concordia Publishing House — The History of the Gymnasium and Educational Institutions of Wittenberg, written in 1830 by Franz Spitzner. The Wittenberg Latin School was one of the first distinctly Lutheran classical schools, born out of the Reformation. Dr. Veith wrote the preface to this volume, and today he helps us understand not only the school's fascinating history, but why it's essential reading for anyone who cares about classical Christian education in our own time. 0:00 — Introduction & Welcome to the Concordia Publishing House Podcast. Sponsored by the LCMS Foundation. 1:42 The History of the Old Latin School, as told in the History of the Gymnasium and Educational Institutions of Wittenberg, written in 1830 by Franz Spitzner. 2:42 —Dr. Veith sets the scene: how Luther and Melanchthon built the first classical Lutheran school in Wittenberg — bringing literacy and education to ordinary people for the first time. 8:08 — Why Classical Education Matters Today. The philosophical crisis driving today's educational decline: postmodernism's rejection of objective truth, and how classical Christian education offers a grounded alternative. 11:06 — Education for All: Luther's Vision Luther's radical idea that every child deserved a full "liberal" education. A baptized child of God is worthy of the best. 15:35 — Vocation, Freedom, and Social Mobility. How education enabled social mobility and the development of vocation — not just as a job, but as service to God and neighbor in every area of life. 17:25 — The Prussian Reforms and the Decline of Classical Education. How Frederick William III's authoritarian reforms dismantled classical Christian education, invented the modern research university, and set education on a path away from truth. 24:50 — Why Parents Must Be Invested in Their Children's Education. Preparing children not just for work, but for citizenship, faith, and the next generation. Why parents — not schools alone — are the key to passing on what is precious. Learn more about The History of the Gymnasium and Educational Institutions of Wittenberg. About the Guest Gene Edward Veith Jr. is a retired English professor and college administrator, most recently at Patrick Henry College and Concordia University Wisconsin. He is the author of twenty-seven books, including Embracing Your Lutheran Identity, Authentic Christianity: How Lutheran Theology Speaks to a Postmodern World; Christianity in an Age of Terrorism, and God at Work. He has a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas and currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, Jackquelyn. He has three grown children and twelve grandchildren. Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries: 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

How did our modern culture get here—especially when it comes to sex, marriage, and family life? In this episode, Elizabeth Pittman sits down with Dr. Erkki Koskenniemi, a Finnish Lutheran pastor and scholar, to explore how closely today’s world mirrors the ancient Greco-Roman world. Drawing from history, Scripture, and early Christian teaching, Dr. Koskenniemi explains what made Christians stand out in the Roman Empire—and what the Church can learn today as we increasingly live as a minority culture. About the Guest Dr. Erkki Koskenniemi is a Finnish theologian, pastor, and educator with 40 years of teaching experience in classical studies and theology. Author of Love, Marriage and Family: Learning from the Early Christians. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Resources Mentioned Love, Marriage and Family: Learning from the Early Christians Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org Follow CPH on social media: @concordiapub LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries: 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast Listen & Subscribe If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Concordia Publishing House Podcast and leave a review—it helps others discover the show!

Dr. Kevin Golden joins host Elizabeth Pittman to unpack the Old Testament prophet Hosea and his newly released Hosea volume in the Concordia Commentary series. Discover the historical context of eighth-century Israel, the shocking symbolism of Hosea's marriage to Gomer, and the profound meaning behind their children's names. Dr. Golden unpacks how law and gospel intertwine throughout Hosea's prophecy, revealing God's relentless pursuit of His people despite their unfaithfulness. Learn practical applications for marriage, reconciliation, and preaching that resonate today. In This Episode: 3:17 - Dr. Golden's Background How Dr. Golden became fascinated with Hosea and the significance of the "Golden Volume" 7:57 - Historical Context The eighth-century BC setting and Israel's spiritual decline 15:01 - Marriage to Gomer Understanding Hosea's shocking call to marry an adulterous woman 23:52 - The Children's Names Jezreel, Lo-Ruhamah, and Lo-Ammi—names that speak judgment and grace 31:18 - Lessons for Marriage Practical applications for reconciliation in Christian relationships 35:13 - Preaching Like Hosea How pastors can learn from Hosea's use of law, gospel, and metaphor 37:44 - Using the Commentary Advice for pastors, students, and laypeople on getting the most from the Hosea commentary Learn more about Hosea—Concordia Commentary About the Guest Rev. Dr. Kevin S. Golden is director of resident field education, associate professor of exegetical theology, and dean of theological research and publication at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO. Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries: 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

In this episode, host Elizabeth Pittman sits down with Lois Stewart, a lifelong champion of Lutheran education who has served as a teacher, administrator, and now mission facilitator for schools in the Northern Illinois District of the LCMS. Together they explore what makes Lutheran schools so special—from their Christ‑centered mission to the deep relationships they build between students, families, congregations, and communities. As National Lutheran Schools Week unfolds, Lois shares stories from the classroom, powerful examples of school–church partnership, creative celebration ideas, and inspiring glimpses into the daily joy found in our Lutheran schools. Topics Covered • What Makes Lutheran Schools Unique • Celebrating Lutheran Schools Week • Service as Joy • Lois’s Journey Through Lutheran Education • Celebrating School & Church Together • Building Strong School–Family Relationships • Simple Ways Any School Can Celebrate • Signs of a Joy‑Filled School Concordia Publishing House – Bringing you God's enduring Word in a changing world. 👉 cph.org Follow CPH on social: @concordiapub LCMS Foundation – Helping congregations grow long‑term funding to support ministries: 👉 lcmsfoundation.org/podcast

On this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, Elizabeth Pittman is joined by theologian, author, and podcast host Bryan Wolfmueller to discuss his newest book with CPH, Finally Free: Three Lessons in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. In this short book, Wolfmueller digs into the popular parable of the Prodigal Son to bring hope and aid to our hurting conscience. Get the book at cph.org/finallyfree. Show Notes In the parable of the prodigal son, Jesus tells a story most of us know by heart. Yet beneath its familiarity, He exposes three kinds of bondage that touch every human heart: the pull to do whatever we want, the fear that we’ve sinned too much to be welcomed back, and the quiet pride that trusts in our own goodness. In this episode, author Bryan Wolfmueller talks about his book Finally Free: Three Lessons in the Parable of the Prodigal Son and explores how Jesus uses this beloved parable to reveal our slavery to sin and, more importantly, the freedom He gives through His suffering, death, and resurrection. Questions About the Guest Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller is the pastor at St. Paul and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Churches in Austin, TX. Prior to that he was the pastor of Hope Lutheran Church in Aurora, CO since 2005. He is the co-host of Table Talk Radio, the world’s most famous Lutheran theological game show. Bryan has a new hobby every day, but he always comes back to reading about Law and Gospel. Bryan lives in Round Rock, TX with his wife Keri and four children.

Todd A. Biermann joins host Elizabeth Pittman on this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast to discuss his new Bible journal with CPH, Everyday Word: A Two-Year Bible Journal. Todd is the executive director of Concordia Center for the Family. Get a copy of the Bible journal at cph.org/everydayword. Show Notes Listen to the episode to hear from author Todd A. Biermann as he discusses his new Bible journal from CPH, Everyday Word: A Two-Year Bible Journal. He describes how this journal came to life, what makes this Bible journal unique, how a family or small group may use the journal together, advice he’d give to those who want to start regularly reading the Bible, and more. Questions Everyday WordEveryday WordEveryday WordEveryday WordAbout the Guest Todd A. Biermann, after having served as a parish pastor in Minnesota, Ohio and Michigan for 34 years, is now fulfilling the Call as Executive Director of Concordia Center for the Family, a Recognized Service Organization of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He holds a bachelor of arts degree from Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska, a Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He resides in Republic, Missouri, with his beloved bride, Heather, who shares his passion for building up marriages and families in God’s way.

Dr. David J. Peter joins this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast to discuss the 2025 Advent series, Every Heart Prepare, which he authored in partnership with CPH. Order your church’s Advent materials at cph.org/advent. Show Notes We do so much to prepare for Christmas. One way we prepare is by decorating our homes, yards, and churches with evergreens, lights, the crèche, and presents. This season, reflect upon these common Christmas decorations and how they help us see Christ and prepare for His coming with this Advent and Christmas series. Dr. David J. Peter discusses Every Heart Prepare, the all-inclusive Advent preaching and worship series that features sermons and sermon notes, Bible studies, children’s messages, a children’s Christmas service, and more. He talks about what first inspired him to write about common Christmas decorations and how they relate to Advent, advice he would give pastors for using these materials in their congregations, and what part of this series was most meaningful to him. Dr. Peter is also the author of Organizing for Ministry and Mission: Options for Church Structure (CPH, 2023). Questions About the Guest Dr. David J. Peter has served as a professor of practical theology and the dean of faculty at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, where he has regularly led courses for practicing pastors. His areas of expertise include pastoral ministry and researching congregational dynamics. Dr. Peter has also gained many insights from students about the realities of administration and leadership in congregations throughout his years of preaching and instructing. Before joining the Seminary, Dr. Peter served as a visiting instructor of theology at Concordia University in Nebraska, Seward from 1987 to 1988. He also served as associate pastor at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Peoria, Illinois, from 1988 to 1995 and then as senior pastor from 1995 to 1998. Dr. Peter received his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) from Concordia Seminary, his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln., and a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois.

On this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, host Elizabeth Pittman is joined by guest and author Rev. Dr. R. Reed Lessing. The pair discusses Reed‘s newest book with CPH, Hope in the Wilderness: Practical Insights from the Book of Numbers, which tackles the Book of Numbers in a chapter-by-chapter exploration. Get the book today at cph.org. Show Notes In-between times. You’ve likely been here too. Waiting for a new job to start. Transitioning from engaged to married. Packing up your belongings but unable to move into that new house yet. The Book of Numbers is also about the in-between times and, most importantly, how to survive during them. Listen to the episode now as author R. Reed Lessing discusses how his newest book helps you tackle the Book of Numbers with helpful maps, diagrams, and connections to the rest of the Bible. Reed also talks about why studying the Book of Numbers is valuable, who the Levites were and what we can learn from them today, why the ark of the covenant is important, what lessons we can take away from Numbers, and more. Questions About the Guest Dr. R. Reed Lessing is The Edwin F. and Esther L. Laatsch Chair of Old Testament Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul, Minnesota. He also serves as the University’s Director for the Center of Biblical Studies and oversees the University’s Pre-Seminary Program. Previously, he was Senior Pastor at Saint Michael Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and before that, Professor of Exegetical Theology and Director of the Graduate School at Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and received a B.A. in pre-seminary studies from St. John’s College, Winfield, Kansas, in 1981. He earned his M.Div. (1985), S.T.M. (1989), and Ph.D. (2001) degrees from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, Missouri. He was ordained into the office of the holy ministry on June 29, 1986. From 1986 to 1999, he served pastorates in West Monroe, Louisiana, and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

On this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, host Elizabeth Pittman is joined by Benjamin Kolodziej. They explore the history of American Lutheran Church music and Kolodziej’s new book on this topic, Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847–1947. Get the new book at cph.org. Show Notes Thirteen composers. Thirteen biographies of foundational Lutheran musicians. Envisioned by Walter Buszin, Portraits in American Lutheran Sacred Music, 1847–1947 is a groundbreaking collection of biographies and historical records of important church figures, places, and instruments that carried the foundation of Lutheran church music. During the episode, author Benjamin Kolodziej discusses the robust history of the people, places, and instruments noted in the book, where the idea for this collection of portraits came from, advice he would give to aspiring church musicians, and more. About the Guest Benjamin Kolodziej holds an undergraduate degree in organ performance as well as graduate degrees in sacred music and theology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. His primary organ studies have been with Robert Anderson, Larry Palmer, Richard DeLong, George Baker, and Jon Gillock. He has performed solo organ concerts in Norway, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and Italy and throughout the UK. A frequent performer for concerts and hymn festivals in the USA, his venues have included St. Patrick’s Cathedral and St. Thomas Church in New York City, Washington National Cathedral, and St. Philip’s Cathedral in Atlanta. He is a frequent writer on topics of organ and church music for national publications, including The American Organist. Kolodziej is organist and choirmaster at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Dallas, Texas, and is also organist at Perkins Chapel at Southern Methodist University, where he plays for one hundred weddings a year. As a hobby, he collects antiquarian hymnals and theological literature. He is a member of Faith Lutheran Church (LCMS) in Plano, Texas.

In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, host Elizabeth Pittman is joined by Rev. Dr. Carl C. Fickenscher II, author of the new book Looking Forward to Sunday Morning: Reflections on the Church Year. The duo discusses the contents of the readings that we hear at church on Sunday morning, how they relate thematically, and what we can learn to look forward to as we spend time in the Word. Get the book now on cph.org! Show Notes How often do you think about the contents of upcoming weekly worship services and how they interconnect thematically? However rare or frequent this is, there is something to be learned, and certainly something to look forward to. Listen to the episode to hear how this resource from CPH based on Carl Fickenscher II’s fan-favorite radio show walks through the propers of each week of the three-year-lectionary (the Introit, Gradual, Collect, and so on), helping you prepare for worship and better understand its interconnected pieces. Carl also talks about how the lectionary is a valuable tool for the church, what he hopes readers learn to look forward to during Sunday morning worship, what church leaders can take from this book to help their members be more excited about Sunday morning worship, and more. Questions About the Guest Rev. Dr. Carl Fickenscher is a professor of pastoral ministry and missions at Concordia Theological Seminary in Fort Wayne, Indiana, teaching primarily the area of homiletics. He and his wife, Claire, are parents of Rachel, Daniel, and Gabriel, and very proud grandparents.

2025 marks the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed. Pastor Timothy Winterstein joins host Elizabeth Pittman on this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast to discuss his new Bible Study, Worshiped and Glorified: A Study of the Nicene Creed. Order Pastor Winterstein’s new book on cph.org today! Show Notes Pastor Winterstein’s new eight-session Bible study, Worshiped and Glorified: A Study of the Nicene Creed, unpacks the historical context, significance, and scriptural foundation of the phrases of the Nicene Creed. In his writing, he illuminates the intricacies and implications of the Nicene Creed, from why we needed (and still need) it, to each phrase’s historical background, purpose, and scriptural foundation. During the episode, Pastor Winterstein talks about why the Nicene Creed was written, how it’s important to Christians in today’s world, how the Nicene Creed guides our Bible reading, and more. Questions About the Guest Timothy Winterstein is the pastor of University Lutheran Church on the campus of Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. He is married to Tennille, and they have four children: Lucia, Jonas, Salem, and Cyrus. He is pursuing a PhD in Theology and Culture at Concordia Seminary, St Louis. With his brother, Jay, he hosts a film and theology podcast at saintsandcinema.com.

In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, Christina Hergenrader joins as guest to talk about her newest Bible Study, Everlasting: Peaks, Valleys, and Grace in the Psalms. Get a copy of the book at cph.org/everlasting. Show Notes Anxious. Worthy. Ashamed. Nostalgic. Lonely. Secure. This is just a handful of emotions we observe in the Psalms—and in our day-to-day lives, too. In her newest women’s Bible study, beloved author Christina Hergenrader guides readers through 25 psalms, digging into their genres, perplex emotions, glimpses of Jesus, and more. During the episode, Christina discusses what led her to explore emotions and the Psalms, what it’s like sharing personal stories in the book, why Christians struggle to believe that our emotions matter to God, how she envisions readers will use Everlasting, and more. Questions EverlastingEverlastingEverlastingAbout the Guest Christina Hergenrader is busy doing what she loves. As a wife, mother, Christian teacher, and writer, she finds that life continues to keep her on her toes. After growing up in Galveston Island, Texas, Christina moved to Nebraska and attended Concordia University Nebraska, where she pursued her passion: education. With a teaching degree in hand, she moved to Houston, Texas, with her husband, Mike, to start her first job. At the end of the year, Christina was named “Teacher of the Year” by Houston’s Lutheran School Association. She also received the “Young Alumnus of the Year” award from her alma mater, Concordia-Seward. Later, Christina earned a master’s degree in Creative Writing. She also began writing and sharing devotions with her classes. Encouraged by their feedback, Christina submitted a manuscript to Concordia Publishing House. Since then, she has written several books, Bible studies and articles that have been published by CPH. When she’s not writing, Christina loves spending time with her husband and four children, teaching, speaking to women’s groups, traveling, photography, and spending time in prayer.

In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, Elizabeth Pittman is joined by Rev. Dr R. Lee Hagan, author of Faithful, Hopeful, and Bold: Encouragement for the Church. During the episode, Hagan reminds listeners that wherever God’s Word is proclaimed, there is hope for His people. Get Hagan’s new book at cph.org/hagan. Show Notes Our world is constantly shifting, changing, and moving away from Christianity. This post-Christian culture feels bleak and full of hopelessness for the next generation and the future of our congregations. Yet, the current generations are not the first to have faced this struggle. In his new book, Rev. Dr. R. Lee Hagan brings readers 12 different stories and reflections that address the hopelessness and struggle in today’s churches. The book is perfect for church leaders to find spiritual encouragement and strengthen the faith in their own congregations. Hagan discusses the ins and outs of writing the book with host Elizabeth Pittman, as well as how church leaders should respond to the despair felt for the future of the church, how leadership is centered in discipleship, what it means to be bold as a church leader today, and more. Questions Faithful, Hopeful, and BoldAbout the Guest Rev. Dr. R. Lee Hagan serves as president of the Missouri District-LCMS and as chairman of the LCMS Council of Presidents. He is a 1992 graduate of Concordia College (now University), Seward, Nebraska. He graduated from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis with a Master of Divinity in 1996 and Doctor of Ministry in 2011.

Dr. Robert Kolb joins The Concordia Publishing House Podcast to talk about the second edition of The Christian Faith, A Lutheran Exposition. Dr. Kolb, along with his coauthor Ted Hopkins, use the history of the church and its creeds and confessions as a guide to share new perspectives on the presentation of Christian doctrine for current day. Get the book on cph.org now. Show Notes For Martin Luther, pure doctrine was not just the content of Scripture but also that content conveyed faithfully into the lives of those who hear God’s Word. In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, Dr. Robert Kolb joins host Elizabeth Pittman to talk about the second edition of The Christian Faith, A Lutheran Exposition. He discusses his personal faith journey and ministry, why doctrinal theology is necessary, how Law and Gospel are central to Lutheranism, cultural and theological challenges facing Christians today, and more. Questions About the Guest Rev. Dr. Robert Kolb received M. Div. and S.T.M. degrees from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and a Ph.D. in history at the University of Wisconsin. He served as the director of the Center for Reformation Research from 1973-1977 and as a professor at Concordia College in Saint Paul, Minnesota from 1977-1993, then the acting president from 1989-1990. Kolb was then the director of the Institute for Mission Studies and professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary in Saint Louis from 1993-2006. He continues to teach classes at the seminary following his retirement.

In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, host Elizabeth Pittman is joined by guest Sharla Fritz to discuss Sharla’s newest book, Divine Directions: How God Guides Your Path. Order the book now on CPH’s website at cph.org/divinedirections. Show Notes From Moses’ journey to the Promised Land and Ruth’s journey in life, it’s easy to see that following your own itinerary never goes as planned. In her new book, Divine Directions, Sharla Fritz writes about how this is especially true in her own travel woes. During the episode, listen as Sharla discusses these personal travel stories, the eight Biblical travels she writes about in the book, what it looks like to trust God’s itinerary instead of our own, how to reflect on our spiritual journeys, and more. Questions About the Guest Sharla Fritz loves to speak with women's groups and to share about her own struggles, victories, and failures, speaking about how God is miraculously present through them all. In doing so, she hopes to share a few laughs and meet new sisters in Christ. Sharla is a Lutheran author, musician, and speaker. She has published numerous books with Concordia Publishing House, including Measured by Grace, God's Relentless Love, Divine Makeover: God Makes You Beautiful, Divine Design: 40 Days of Spiritual Makeover, and Bless These Lips: 40 Days of Spiritual Transformation.

Rev. Kris Whitby joins this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast to discuss his new book with CPH, Come and Be Filled: Feasting with Jesus in His Word. Kris and host Elizabeth Pittman discuss 11 Biblical meals that Kris writes about in the book, and how Jesus blesses us when we dine together. Get his book by visiting cph.org/feast. Show Notes In his new book, Come and Be Filled, Kristopher R. Whitby explores eleven meals throughout Scripture and the lessons God teaches there around His table. Through Jesus, your meals will mean more. Kris talks to listeners about the idea behind his book and how it originated, how he went about choosing and studying the eleven meals in Scripture that he writes about, the importance of fellowship and having meals together in today’s world, and more. About the Guest Rev. Kristopher Whitby served for 24 years as a parish pastor, both in Florida and Illinois. In his years of pastoral ministry, Kris was honored to serve as the national LWML pastoral counselor as well as the Northern Illinois District’s North Region Vice President. He has been blessed to host the radio talk show “Faith Talks” and serve as a volunteer chaplain for the Association of Retired Intelligence Officers during the days of 9/11. Pastor Kris now serves on district staff as Assistant to the President–Mission and Ministry in the Northern Illinois District. He and his wife, Marguerita, enjoy their son and daughter, their daughter- and son-in-law, and their three grandchildren that the Lord has provided them, as well as board games, theater, and improv comedy.

On this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, author Donna Snow joins host Elizabeth Pittman to discuss her newest Bible Study, Strong and Courageous: Studying God's Promises in Joshua. Donna discusses why she chose to write about Joshua and what we can learn from his story. Get Donna’s newest Bible Study at cph.org/joshua. Show Notes Joshua was called into what is arguably one of the most intimidating leadership roles in the history of God’s people. As he stood at the Jordan River looking into the land that God had promised, Joshua knew what awaited him—but he was strong and courageous, having faith that God was with him. In her new Bible Study, Donna Snow looks at the life of Joshua in in an eight-session, verse-by-verse format. During the episode, Donna reflects on why she chose Joshua, how we can relate to his study today, the connects she made to the Armor of God, how we can be strong and courageous in our everyday lives, and more. About the Guest A soul-stirring, engaging speaker, author, Bible teacher, and worship leader, Donna Snow has a passion for studying and teaching God’s Word. Her clear, down-to-earth style encourages women of all ages to wholeheartedly love, serve, and live for Jesus Christ. Since launching Artesian Ministries in 2007, Donna has scratched out over 20 Bible studies and enjoys the incredible privilege of traveling throughout the U.S. and internationally to speak and teach where the Lord opens doors. Donna writes regularly on her blog, Hydrated Living, as she seeks to find beauty in the quiet and sacred in the chaos, treasuring that this path is a holy experience planned by God before the beginning of time. A native, life-long Texan, Donna fuels her incredible journey with the Word, coffee, chocolate, family, friends, and worship.

Rev. David A. Shadday joins host Elizabeth Pittman on this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast to talk about his new book, Reclaiming the Heart of Marriage. Get Shadday’s book on the CPH website today. Show Notes Why did God give us marriage? Companionship or procreation might be answers that come to mind, but marriage also serves as something even bigger—it is a reflection of Christ and His bride, the church. Listen to the episode to hear author David A. Shadday discuss his book that includes an eight-week journey “to understand the love God has for you, your response to His love, and the meaning that love brings to your life and your home” (p. 7). David also talks about why God gives us the gift of marriage, common misconceptions about marriage, how single or engaged Christians can prepare for marriage, and advice he’d give to those starting the book with their spouse. Questions About the Guest David A. Shadday is the pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Indianapolis. He has devoted much of his 40 years as a pastor to the subject of marriage and family. He has been married to his wife Sherry (Heierman) for 44 years, and they have four children and seven grandchildren. Pastor Shadday’s main hobby is writing songs.

On this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, Rev. Michael Newman joins host Elizabeth Pittman as the guest to talk about his recently released book with CPH, Faith Notes: A Christ-Centered Survival Kit for Young Men. Mike talks with Elizabeth about the struggles young men face today, from isolation to peer pressure and bullying. He tells listeners how his new book (the companion to Faith Notes: A Christ-Centered Survival Kit for Young Womenby Cassie Moore) contains devotions that point young men to the hope that can only be found in Jesus. Learn more and get the book at cph.org/faith-notes. Show Notes Anxiety. Isolation. Bullying. Faced with issues like these, where can teen boys turn? They can turn to God. During the episode, author Mike Newman tells listeners how his book, Faith Notes: A Christ-Centered Survival Kit for Young Men, features nearly 100 devotions on topics like these, pointing youth to God's truth, showing them God's forgiveness and hope, and steering them toward Christ. Devotional topics include anxiety, mistakes, family and home life, purity, relationships, and more. Mike also delves into his experiences as a pastor and father and how these shaped his insight in the book, advice he has for young men who feel disconnected from God, why he chose the format he did for the book, and more. Questions About the Guest When not teaching and writing, Michael W. Newman enjoys running the Texas roads, reading a good book, and spending time with his family. He is husband to Cindy, father to two beautiful daughters, and grandpa to a brood of wonderful grandchildren.

In this episode of The Concordia Publishing House Podcast, host Elizabeth Pittman speaks with author Rev. Andrew R. Jones about his newest book, Ten Lies Satan Loves to Tell. Andy dives into the truth that Satan lies to us all the time but helps us recognize and combat 10 of the major lies with God’s Word. Get Andy’s newest book at cph.org/tenlies. Show Notes “You need and deserve more.” “You should cover up your sins.” “You are too sinful to be forgiven.” Have you ever heard Satan murmur these lies into your ear? In Ten Lies Satan Loves to Tell, Andrew R. Jones identifies 10 lies Satan—the father of lies (John 8:44)—tells in an effort to dismantle God’s kingdom and God’s people. Andy tells listeners that by enhancing your radar for Satan’s schemes, you can better defend against his deception, and be encouraged to live in God’s truth. Andy also talks about writing this book as a follow-up to his first, Ten Questions to Ask Every Time You Read the Bible, how he narrowed down all the lies Satan tells to just 10, what Satan aims to achieve through his lies, and how God provides us tools to defend against both sin and Satan. About the Guest Andrew R. Jones lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, where he enjoys writing, hiking, and adventuring with his wife, Stephanie. He has served the church on three continents in varying roles, including campus ministry, international mission work, professor of preaching, and parish pastor. His writings speak to the importance of spiritual formation in the midst of a hectic world.