American Reformation

A fascinating journey back in time awaits us, as we delve into the rich history of the early church with Lutheran minister of 25 years, Todd Moritz. With a unique blend of a spiritual and corporate background, Todd opens up about the potent lessons from the first-century discipleship model - a paradigm that celebrated outreach to non-believers and embraced the priesthood of all believers. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of why we need to reignite our passion for sharing the gospel and how this could catalyze growth in the modern church, much like it did in the early Christian era. This episode isn't just about history, though. Todd takes us through his compelling faith journey, which saw him transitioning from an agnostic upbringing to a profound encounter with Jesus, all the way to becoming a Lutheran minister. Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this inspiring story that beautifully illustrates the God's uncanny knack for showing up in the most unexpected places, including a beer-drinking fraternity. Moreover, Todd's candid discussion about transitioning from a corporate career to church leadership and his belief in honoring those with executive experience, while elevating the office of holy ministry, provides a fresh perspective on leading a church in the modern era. Our conversation wouldn't be complete without addressing the idea of innovation in the church. Todd shares insightful ideas on how the church can harness innovation to connect with people in unique ways, all while staying true to its core theology. Also, get a sneak peek into his fascinating work at Lutech and the hybrid high school model he is developing. Plus, learn about the concept of Friendship Sunday and the importance of hospitality. So, grab a cup of coffee and join us for this enlightening exploration into the past, present, and future of the American Christian Church with Todd Moritz. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Join us for a truly enlightening conversation with Jason Phelps, the Discipling Director and Executive Team Member at Gloria Day Lutheran Church, Houston, Texas. Jason’s unique journey, from being immersed in worship arts to fostering a culture of intentional disciple-making within the church, offers profound insights on transforming church-goers into kingdom contributors. During our chat, we explore how worship shapes the church community and varies according to context. Our dialogue takes a deep dive into the power of sharing transformation stories across different congregation sizes and how celebrating values publicly can influence a community. Jason and I also discuss how Gloria Day Lutheran Church is moving away from the consumer model and embracing the kingdom contributor model to promote a discipling culture. As we conclude our conversation, Jason shares the essential ingredients needed to catalyze a disciple-making movement. We delve into the significance of adopting a mission-focused, outcome-focused, habit-fueled, content-flavored, and community-forged approach. Jason also addresses misconceptions about spiritual gifts, highlighting the profound connection between these gifts and the character of Christ. Join us as we unpack the concept of a fully alive life, exploring how the church can foster deep community and exert influence through our unique gifts and passions. Tune in and discover a fresh perspective on discipleship, worship, and church culture. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Ever thought about the role of gospel in the American Christian Church's journey towards reformation? Or considered the potential hurdles institutional and systemic control might pose to pastors and leaders? That's what we're tackling in this conversation with Phil Klopke, co-director of PLI's thousand young leaders. We're highlighting Phil's experiences of living in East Nashville, the most liberal district in Tennessee, and his insights into equipping all people with giftedness to lead in the kingdom. Engage with us as we discuss the dangers of missing the gospel and how to effectively communicate with those who hold different beliefs. Phil takes us through his personal journey of faith and leadership development, sharing the transformation and re-orientation of how Jesus interacts in the lives of those who participate in PLI's programs. We also touch on church formation and leadership training, talking candidly about the challenges church leaders and pastors face when trying to integrate young leaders into congregational life. Phil's experiences at conventions and his words of wisdom for church leaders are a must-listen for anyone passionate about strengthening church leadership. The third part of our conversation focuses on developing leaders for community impact, emphasizing the power of storytelling in shifting perspectives and cultures. You'll be inspired by Phil's recounting of a leader who used his passion for pizza to serve the homeless, creating a unique form of discipleship. We also discuss unity and dialogue within the church, the significant role of women, and the importance of contextual hospitality when administering the Lord's Supper. Lastly, we reflect on the necessity of taking care of our physical health as a spiritual discipline, with Phil sharing his personal journey towards healthier living. Join us for a thought-provoking and heartwarming discussion, sure to challenge and inspire you in your own journey. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

We're privileged to have Rick Meyer with us, a man whose impressive history of pastoring and caring for leaders is nothing short of inspiring. Today, we're journeying through the landscape of soul care, examining its pivotal role in the American Reformation. Rick’s insights on discipleship and relationships within the church will uplift you and rekindle your faith. We'll journey into the depths of our faith as Rick shares his personal experiences and reflections on Psalm 22, a powerful tool for expressing our pain and responding to suffering. Rick's story of radical dependence on God during times of hardship illuminates the importance of the cross and the hope of resurrection. These reflections will guide us as we explore ways to nurture our own stories and care for the souls of others. The road may not always be easy, but the rewards of such explorations are rich and deeply fulfilling. Finally, we venture into the often-untrodden territory of emotional needs and vulnerability. Here, Rick opens up about the importance of finding a safe space for sharing and the fear of appearing weak. We'll explore societal norms, the differences between men and women, and how we can foster an environment that allows for genuine expression. This episode is a powerful reminder that we are, each of us, fearfully and wonderfully made. So let's buckle up for an emotional and enlightening ride through soul care, discipleship, and emotional vulnerability in the church. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Ready to explore the evolving landscape of modern Christianity? Make sure to tune in for our enlightening conversation with Dr. Steve Mueller, Chief Mission Officer at Concordia University in Irvine, California, as he offers valuable insights about the American church's response to a rapidly changing culture. Learn how Concordia University is preparing students to excel in their vocations and become leaders in the secular marketplace, extending the love of Jesus in every corner of society. This is not just about navigating the darkness in the world; it's about being the beacon of light and hope in it. We also delve into Dr. Mueller's rich career, starting from his days in youth and camp ministry to his current role at Concordia University. Discover the importance of maintaining a connection with parish life, the unique partnership between St Paul's and Concordia, and his takeaways from the recent Lutheran Church Missouri Synod convention. Not to miss, we have also covered some gripping discussions about church politics, the business aspect of the church, and the dynamic relationship between the board of directors and the Concordia University system. Finally, we bring you valuable perspectives on Generation Z, their incredible desire to make a difference, and the pressures they face in today's world. Listen to how Lewis's writings can open hearts and minds to the gospel and the secret of communicating the gospel truth effectively in the current culture. This conversation is sure to inspire you to foster humility, trust, and unity within your church community. So, are you ready to join us on this journey of faith and leadership? JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Did you know that the financial strain of full-time ministry can be eased with a dual vocation? Get ready to have your traditional concepts of ministry challenged in this eye-opening episode as we sit down with Pastor Eric Hoke, a church planner in the Bronx for over a decade. Eric unravels the pressing need for bi-vocational ministry, sharing his inspiring journey from servicing just a few pastors to now assisting 20 to 40 bi-vocational pastors. The complexities of running urban churches are unique. From the lack of physical space to the transience of people, the hurdles are endless. But, as we explore in this podcast, co-vocational ministry can help surmount these obstacles. With Eric Hoke, we delve deep into the compelling history and contemporary relevance of co-vocational ministry – drawing parallels from Lydia's home church in the early days to the Brethren Church in Zambia and a city-to-city initiative today. The discussion takes a turn towards coaching and personal branding within the church, often an ignored aspect of ministry. Eric's five frameworks for coaching ministry provide enlightening insights. We also discuss the often-misunderstood concept of personal branding within the confines of the church, and how pastors can use it to position themselves most effectively. Join us and learn how we can all embrace ministry in our unique ways, just like Lydia, a successful businesswoman and early church supporter. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Buckle up as we embark on a journey through faith, culture, and transformation. Our guest, Nick Graff, a former Marine Corp soldier, brings his experiences to the table as we navigate the intricacies of being gospel-forward in our communication with the world. Inspired by the Apostle Paul's approach to a pre-Christian world, we delve into the profound dual functions of law, and challenge ourselves to lead with love, not judgement. We extend our exploration into church demographics and the underlying patterns of growth in churches. The conversation illuminates the significance of relationships, pre-consciousness, and the changing composition of American Lutheranism. As Graff narrates his transition from military duty to a proclaimer of the Word, we are reminded of the universal reach of Jesus' peace and Christ's care. The episode takes an intriguing twist as we confront theological tensions and the resurgence of Calvinism. Graff shares his journey from a Lutheran childhood, through military service, to his current perspective, deeply rooted in the Augsburg Confession. In a world that is so often divided, we reflect on the dangers of gatekeeping salvation and the rise of Gnosticism. As we wrap up, we ponder on the resilience of the gospel in the face of adversity. Prepare to be moved, enlightened, and challenged in your understanding of faith and the gospel. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

What if the church was more about relationships than institutions? This is the thought-provoking question we pose to our guest, Josh LeBorious, a new pastor and inquisitive father. In our enlightening conversation, we discuss the need for a transformative shift in our church focus, veering from an institutional perspective to a more relationship-centered approach. We grapple with the limitations of virtual worship and ponder on the church's proclivity for relying heavily on the power of position. We argue for the value of local, life-on-life ministry, advocating for a church culture that elevates connections over politics and legality. Josh LeBorious shares some intriguing insights from his church's successful strategies for cultivating and maintaining attendance. This involves the unique tactic of scheduling employees with their friends, which fosters an environment conducive to spiritual growth. He emphasizes the importance of having a close-knit circle of people in a discipleship relationship, drawing inspiration from 'The Other Half of Church' by Jim Hendricks. This book sheds light on the pivotal role character development plays in discipleship. Our conversation extends to the hurdles encountered by young pastors and the centrality of discipleship in the modern church. We dig into the process of identifying potential leaders within the church, assisting them in nurturing their leadership skills, and maintaining a healthy church culture. Josh shares his journey of self-discovery and the role it plays in conflict resolution, reminding us of the essence of a community focus in the church. Join us for this eye-opening discussion and let's rethink the way we approach ministry. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

When was the last time you felt totally in sync with the Holy Spirit? Guest KJ Struz, a believer with a passion for transformative living, joins us to unpack what this can look like in our everyday lives. We journey together through the VIM model (Vision, Intention, and Means) and top five habits that bring us closer to a life filled with love, peace, and the power of the Spirit. Imagine finding delight in movement, seeing it not just as a chore but as an essential part of reducing stress and inflammation in our bodies. KJ and I explore how to make movement enjoyable and an integral part of everyday life. We also touch on the vital aspects of hydration, micro-nutrition, and the need to limit processed foods for a healthier lifestyle. As we navigate through this, we also discover the calming power of prayer and meditation - tools that keep our mind in tune with the Spirit. The episode wraps up with KJ sharing invaluable insights about the importance of listening to our bodies, debunking the myth of metabolism and the significant role of self-awareness in growth. He recounts his inspiring experience of coaching a high school boys volleyball team, lessons learned, and the transformative power of love and sacrifice in his marriage. This is an episode filled with practical wisdom and spiritual insights, all aimed at unleashing the transformative power of the Spirit in your life. Tune in and be inspired by these life-changing conversations. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Get ready for a heartwarming journey back to our seminary days with my lifelong buddy, Larry McGurer, as we reminisce about the gospel of Luke 10:2 and how it shaped our faith. Larry generously opens up about his path to faith, guided by his pastor and youth group leader's wisdom, and his discovery of Concordia, which kindled his passion for missions. We marvel at the miraculous work of the Holy Spirit and the profound impact of discipleship and encouragement in shaping our faith journeys. Switching gears, we transport you from the seminary to the ski slopes. Larry takes us through some knee-deep snow, unraveling his skiing adventures in the picturesque town of Breckenridge, Colorado. He talks about the Summit Mission Alliance's transformative impact on his community and his call to serve Christ in Breckenridge, taking innovative steps to spread the Gospel in his broader community. We explore how he weaved his love for the community with the Gospel's outreach, thoroughly changing his life's course. Lastly, we turn our attention towards a unique mission, The Leadville Project. This initiative saw 30 individuals from six different congregations unite to conduct community projects. We ponder on the potential of a bivocational missionary serving the Good Shepherd congregation, and how such an opportunity can connect one to something larger than oneself. Wrapping things up, we emphasize the significance of humility, building relationships, and accepting people as they are, without necessarily agreeing with their actions. In essence, this conversation serves as a testament to the transformative power of love and acceptance, mirroring the teachings of Jesus. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Are you ready to discover the profound impact of shifting from an addition to a multiplication mentality in the context of the church? If so, this enlightening conversation welcoming back Steve Pike, the author of 'Next Wave,' is one you can't miss. This isn't just about adding numbers to the church but about fostering a culture of disciples who, in turn, create more disciples, thereby instigating a potent cycle of growth and outreach. This episode transcends the bounds of conventional church discourse as we look at how disciple making can shape our everyday lives and influence our relationships. We challenge the packed schedules of leaders and explore how prioritizing disciple making, even if it requires personal sacrifices, can lead to lasting impact. We also confront the rampant busyness of church activities, highlighting how it can sometimes eclipse the real mission of reaching those who are yet to follow Jesus. In the final stretches of our conversation, we debunk myths related to making a difference and expound on how even a small group of dedicated individuals can ignite profound change. We discuss the nuances of leadership and how understanding our unique strengths and gifts can catalyze positive influence. So prepare to redefine your understanding of growth, delve into discipleship, and discover practical ways to bring about significant transformation in your community. Tune in, and let's embark on this transformative journey together. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

What if the church growth movement has morphed into an unhealthy comparison game? How do we navigate the divisive impact of echo chambers and the lack of shared experiences in our ministries? Join us for a stirring conversation with Reverend Dr. Larry Osborne, a Kingdom Ambassador and Teaching Pastor at North Coast Church. Larry shares his remarkable journey from pastoring a small congregation of just 70 adults to leading a thriving church of over 13,000. He also opens up about his literary contributions that have influenced thousands of pastors across the globe. Larry and I shed light on the challenges and opportunities of pastoring, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the unique gifts in each person. We explore Larry's bilingual gift and the power of the multi-site video model in reaching people, underscoring the vitality of understanding God's calling and leading with humility in our ministries. The conversation takes a poignant turn as we discuss the rise of echo chambers and the divisive impact of the lack of shared experiences, and Larry shares valuable wisdom on navigating these complexities. Finally, we zoom in on the story of Jesus in the book of Mark and its relevance to our lives today, touching on the importance of living in the perfect love of Christ amidst the current tumultuous times. Larry imparts his advice on finding fulfillment and striking a balance in life, emphasizing the need for developing right habits and mindsets. So gear up for an enriching conversation filled with faith, wisdom, and practical insights from one of the most influential pastors of our time. This is not just an episode; it's a faith-filled exploration of modern-day ministry. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

What if we could bridge the generational gap within the American Christian Church with the simple act of humility? In our thought-provoking conversation with Reverend Dr. Chad Lakies, we navigate the path to a more cohesive Christian community. As we echo Jesus' humility, we learn the importance of intergenerational connection and the transformative effect it can have on our churches. Our discussion with Reverend Lekees unravels the significance of listening and learning from each other, while shedding light on how pride can act as a barrier to our younger generation. Reverend Dr. Chad Lakies shares an inspirational journey, transitioning from an atheist band drummer to a church leader. His story illuminates the power of genuine Christian hospitality and emphasizes on the vital need to create welcoming spaces within our churches. This open environment allows room for those wrestling with questions and doubts to freely express their thoughts. Listen in as we explore the ways our churches can become a safe haven for people from all walks of life. Our enriching talk with Reverend Dr. Lakies also reveals how the gospel can reshape our perception of work, turning obligations into gifts. We investigate the potential pitfalls of treating evangelism as a marketing project, and instead, focus on introducing people to Jesus. We touch upon the role of ecclesiology, law and gospel, and spiritual disciplines in creating true disciples of Jesus. Furthermore, we delve into the doctrine of vocation, its significance in Christian life and the influence it carries over parenting. Chad reinforces the power of intentional action in positively impacting young lives. So, tune in, let's discover the importance of authenticity, humility, and small acts of service in creating disciples and bridging generational gaps. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

About David: Rev. Dr. David Kim was born and raised in South Korea. He arrived in the United States in 2002, after serving as a missionary/church planter in Ecuador for 12 years. In his first eight years in the U.S. he furthered his biblical studies and learned about American culture and churches. In conversation and visits with more than 100 congregations, one surprising response most often heard. When he asked parishioners and pastors about the mission field and missionaries, he was shocked to hear their answer was almost always the same: “our missionaries are overseas.” While he knew that to be true--that the world desperately needs missionaries to reach the billions of lost people--it deeply concerned him that very few viewed themselves as witnesses of Jesus in own daily mission fields. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

About Kyle: Native Arizonan Have an amazing wife and I’m a father of 3 For the last 14yrs I’ve worked in higher education Managing a team for the last 10yrs Most important…. I love Jesus! JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

About Mark: Pastor Mark Hoehner is the son of Pastor Bob and Susan Hoehner, brother of Nicole Muth and the Rev. Dr. Matthew Hoehner. Mark was born in Linn, Kansas and grew up most of his life in Michigan and Wisconsin. He graduated from Concordia University - Wisconsin in 1996 with a degree in History and Education. He continued his studies at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and graduated with a Masters of Divinity in 2000. He met Erin Trinklein that spring and they were married on May 5 th , 2001. They have three boys, Micah (19, sophomore at Concordia - Wisconsin), Isaiah (18, Freshman at Concordia - Nebraska) and Asher (15, sophomore at Lutheran High School). Pastor Mark started his Ph.D studies in Old Testament in the Spring of 2000. He continued his graduate studies at Concordia Seminary and began to serve Chapel of the Cross as an interim preacher and teacher on October 6, 2022. He was called and ordained as Sr. Pastor at Chapel of the Cross on July 6 th , 2003. He has served as pastor at Chapel of the Cross since then and has enjoyed team ministry with the Chapel Staff and leadership. Mark has also enjoyed his ministry in getting to know the people over two decades, and continuing to be a student of God’s Word each day, learning how to apply the never changing Word of God to an ever- changing world and ministry context. Erin has since become the Preschool Director and teacher at Chapel of the Cross and enjoys teaching our youngest people about Jesus. Pastor Mark completed his Ph.D in February of 2011, and since has published four books on how to read the Old Testament in a series called, Knowing God Knowing Me. He has enjoyed being a guest teacher or lecturer at the Seminary, Lutheran High Schools, and pastor conferences. He and Erin and the boys love watching the Detroit Tigers beat the St. Louis Cardinals … every once in a while. Visit UniteLeadership.org Help support our podcast as we long to see the wider American Christian church fall more in love with Jesus by learning form the practices of the early church. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1962293/support JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Join Tim for Part 2 of Systems Theory covering 8 Interconnected Key Concepts: interviewing Pastor Michael, a fellow partner in the Gospel at Christ Greenfield Church in Gilbert, Arizona. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Join Tim has he interviews Pastor Michael, a fellow partner in the Gospel at Christ Greenfield Church in Gilbert, Arizona. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Doug's Story - A few years ago I got sick. REALLY sick. I was down and limited in activity for almost 18 months. I remember praying the first week I was in the hospital, “God…don’t let this be for nothing. Let me learn something from this.” Then, as time dragged on for the next several months, I remember watching the world around me. I was watching the Church be attacked in what I perceived as a way it had not been attacked in my memory or in my lifetime. So I THEN started praying, “God, how can we get back to movements like we saw in the late 60’s “Jesus Movement” era. Over the next several months (and, by the way, this is just coming up on the two year mark) I started to get some answers...... Read the rest here Visit UniteLeadership.org JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!

Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling has been a team member at Bethlehem for 10 years with 7 of those years serving as Pastor. Pastor Bolling works in many ministry facets as he and Pastor Schmidtke steer the ministry of Bethlehem together. He holds a BA in Theatre from Concordia University Chicago, an Mdiv from Concordia Seminary, and a Doctorate of Education (EdD) from Concordia University Wisconsin in Leadership, Innovation, and Continuous Improvement. His dissertation focused on Urban Leadership Development as it related to mentorship for Urban LCMS Pastors. In addition to serving as full-time Pastor at Bethlehem, Pastor Bolling also serves as full-time Professor of Leadership and Theology in the online modality at Concordia University Texas. He is a writer for Concordia Publishing House, and serves as a podcast host for Lutheran Hour Ministries in a show called “The (Im)partial Church” focusing on Race and Diversity (https://www.lhm.org/theimpartialchurch). Pastor Bolling also adjuncts at various Lutheran universities. His wife Lorenda teaches Preschool at Word of Life Lutheran School where their son (Lincoln) attends school, and their daughter (Monroe) attends the Early Childcare Center for St. Lucas Lutheran. They reside in South St. Louis City. JOIN OUR NEW ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORM! ENTER CODE - 75ULC2023 for 75% off! Support the showWatch Us On Youtube!