Suffering Servants: Recent Episodes
Rev. Tyler Cronkright
Suffering is inevitable for the Christian. It always helps to know that others are suffering with you, even the ultimate suffering servant Jesus Christ himself.Suffering Servants is a discussion of the Church, the martyrs of the faith, and the Christian life that we all live together, united to the One who suffered and died for us.Episodes drop Monday mornings.Suffering Servants is a product of the Family of God Lutheran Church in Detroit, MI.Intro music is "White Horse" by Skillet. Family of God does not own the rights to the music or lyrics, but we certainly appreciate John Cooper and Skillet creating a culture of standing firm in the truth.
Song writer and musician Shaun Tomczak joins the show today to talk about The Still Worship Collective, which exists to elevate the songs God is still speaking to worship leaders, songwriters, and creatives in the local church. Why do we sing what we sing? Do the lyrics actually matter? How did a small idea become a full movement within local churches? Enjoy the show and make sure you check out The Still Worship Collective wherever you listen to music!
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We are so back! At least for this week.
A lot has gone on and we wanted to hop on and talk for a little bit. In this episode we wandered all over the place (as we typically do). Everything from birth stories, to pools and splashpads, to music, to the unhurried life. Enjoy this summer episode!
On today's show, we are joined by the Queen of Hospitality, Melissa Hammett. Melissa serves at St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester Michigan as Director of Youth Ministries and plays an absolutely vital role in the way that the Church does Hospitality. From coordinating events at St. John, to opening up her home to everyone, Melissa doesn't just talk about it, she DOES hospitality, bringing joy wherever she goes. We hope you have fun with this episode and are challenged this summer to embark on a joyful journey of one of the Scriptures' greatest delights: Hospitality.
Holy Week is upon us! We are joined on the show today by Pastor Joel Werner from Christ Our Savior in Livonia, Michigan as we take a trip from Palm Sunday, to the Upper Room on Maundy Thursday, to the Cross on Friday, the dark gloomy tomb on Saturday, and burst out of the tomb on Sunday with our Lord Jesus. Join us as we talk about how each of these holy days have major implications on us as believers in Christ, and may our Lord bless you in your holy week worship.
We are down to the Sweet Sixteen! And there are some JUICY matchups. See who makes it through as we finally crown the Champion for 2026! Enjoy our live reactions to a big game live as well 😂 and an Easter Egg at the end of the episode.
Moses, Elijah, Peter, John, Paul, etc. The heavy hitters of the Scriptures take the big stage in the Big Dance on this week's episode. We take 32 people from the Bible and put them head-to-head in a March Madness Bracket-style discussion. Will there be upsets? Hint: Yes! Take a listen to find out. We also throw in some Tournament talk as well, which you are welcome to skip the first 20 minutes or so :)
Stay tuned for next week where we begin with the Sweet Sixteen and crown the Champion!
Today we are joined by Elizabeth Leinberger, the Interim Principal (soon to be Principal) of St. John Lutheran School in Rochester, MI. We talked through her ministry journey, the highs and the lows of being called in the Lutheran Schools, the vital importance of Christianity in education, as well as the unspoken burden she carries as a principal and the joy that even that can bring. Enjoy!
Outro music is "Your Word" by The Still Worship Collective
Ash Wednesday and the season of Lent is quickly approaching. On today's show, Tyler and Trevor talk with Marc and Steve, pastors with Tyler at St. John in Rochester Michigan about it all. From fasting and asking the question of 'have we missed the mark with it?', to the somberness of Lent and the removal of the Alleluia's, together we covered a ton of ground. Enjoy!
Song at the end is a Trevor original. You can find it on Spotify, "Joy of Salvation" by The Still Worship Collective.
Happy New Year, brothers and sisters! Today on the show, Trevor and I talk about nostalgia, new years resolutions, and the promises that God has made to us to rest in this year. Enjoy!
Merry Christmas everyone! Today Trevor and Tyler are joined by Pastor Steve Grafe from St. John in Rochester as we dive deeper into the theology of Christmas. Of course we have a little fun with music, movies, and food, but the bulk of the episode discusses the Incarnation and the reason God becomes man for us; and that is simply to die for our sins. Because of that, we are forgiven. We are set free. Yes it is that simple! We rejoice this Christmas in the gift of Christ and pray that you know how much our Lord loves you too. This gift is for you. This Christ is for you.
Disclaimer - Parents, if you have not had the "Christmas Conversation" with your kids, and you know what I'm talking about, be sure that you listen to this episode away from them. We do not desire to ruin the Christmas magic for your kids. We will leave that to you :)
Where do Christians draw the line when it comes to Christmas traditions and Christ? Is it okay for Christians to celebrate "secular Christmas?" On this episode Trevor and Tyler break down this conversation. Enjoy!
After a few heavier episodes, we take a break and have some fun for Thanksgiving. Trevor and I talk about family Thanksgiving traditions, "staples" for the Thanksgiving meal, a PowerRanking of Thanksgiving sides, as well as a moment of thankfulness for God's blessing and goodness. Enjoy!
On today's show, Trevor is back! And together we are joined by Pastor Randy Duncan of the Michigan District and University Lutheran Chapel in Ann Arbor Michigan. We talk about Concordia and his experience guiding a student body through grief, confusion, and anger, as well as how God is using all of that for His glory. Enjoy!
This week we have been celebrating Veterans across the nation. On today's show, we talk with Rev. Dan Maske, US Navy Chaplain about his call in serving in the military. Our conclusion? "The devil will only die tired." Enjoy!
The "producer" of the show has been appointed! Trevor Noonan joins the show for the first time and we had a great conversation about traditional worship and modern worship. As our Director of Modern Praise, Trevor has a lot to say on the topics and it was fantastic conversation. We also were playing with new sounds and features on the new sound board so...no apologies :)
Enjoy!
A (very opinionated) power rank of the best Halloween candy. Should we celebrate it as Christians? Listen and find out.
My Reformation sermon on the "Five Solas" here
Today I am joined by my brother in Christ, Rev. Seth Moorman. Seth serves both as a pastor and executive at 1517. On the show, we talk through some heavy things. Less than two years ago, Seth's beloved wife Jill was taken to be with Christ. Naturally, as a result Seth has been living in grief. We talk about what grief is, how does it rear its head, what do we do with it, how do we handle it, what do we say, and where he finds comfort. It's a great conversation and we both pray that if you are struggling with grief, that you find some comfort and hope, not just by our conversation, but in the promises of Jesus Christ, who is the Resurrection and the Life for you.
Read What Makes A Saint: A Saint Suffers by Seth Moorman
I share my thoughts on the assassination of Charlie Kirk on today's episode.
I wrote about it here: I Still Think About Charlie Kirk
Today on the pod, I am joined with a brother in Christ, Tristan Waechter, who serves on the East Side of Detroit in a variety of ways. From youth ministry, to hispanic ministry, to seminary, and even a music career, we covered so much today and know that you will be blessed by the conversation. We give you a taste of his music at the end of the episode so make sure you listen all the way through!
Jesus Saved Me From The Trap Full Music Video
RND music on Spotify, Apple Music, and all social medias! Give them a follow and listen to the Gospel in a unique and powerful way.
As promised, we continue with another Bonhoeffer sermon, this time about Baptism and about the love of God, which is joined to you in Holy Baptism.
The Collected Sermons of Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The longest episode to date, but it is absolutely WORTH the listen! I got to talk with one of my childhood pastors, Rev. Jim Weist, and talk about all of the incredible things God has done in His life. From Jamaica, to the police force, to the Indian Reservation, God has continued to show His faithfulness to Jim and his ministry, even in the face of some intense suffering. Both of us pray that that you are blessed by this conversation and if you would like to have Jim speak at your congregation, specifically about his time on the Reservation, please reach out to me (PastorTyler@stjohnrochester.org) and I will get you in touch with him. Thanks for listening today!
On today's show, I talk about my good friend Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a very polarizing figure in the Lutheran Church (for whatever reason). In his Reformation Day sermon, he makes the case for the Confessional Church to be a Confessing Church. In other words, it's not that you do the "right things", it's how Christ's love is expressed in response to what He has done for you. Have we forgotten what loving and serving our neighbors looks like?
Bonhoeffer: A Testament to Freedom
My brother in Christ, Alexander, was ordained into the Office of the Holy Ministry on Tuesday and the sermon that was delivered, I thought, was worth sharing and discussing a little bit. It talks about the embracing our baptisms, the cross, suffering, and comradeship as we truly do life together as brothers and sisters in Christ.
Listen to a previous episode entitled, "The One Who Stands Alone Falls."
I had some major ailments this past week and it got me thinking about why God allows for these things to happen. What is He trying to teach us through our sufferings? May that always be our prayer when we face any suffering, no matter how great or how trivial.
Today on the show I talk about one of my favorite words in Greek: Splagchnizomai. Translated to English to mean "compassion", when you look at the Biblical roots, it takes on a whole different meaning. Let's talk about compassion towards others and the compassion our Lord Jesus has for us.
On this episode, I talk a little bit about one of the things in evangelical Christianity that really bugs me..."My personal relationship with Christ." Jesus has not called you to a personal relationship with him. He's called you to something much much greater and something beyond the personal. He's called you into Christian community with others.
Becoming a dad changed my life. Today, I talk with another fellow dad, Kevin, who has three children (a 3 year old, and 4 month old twins!). We talk about the joys and struggles of fatherhood and the love we have for our children and our wives. Enjoy!
Blessed Easter to all of you! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Alleluia. On today's show, I have a flashback to "follies of the week", talking about some ridiculousness that I've come across during the week. This folly comes courtesy of Christianity Today and the heretical take that Jesus was not (necessarily) nailed to the cross. This had me thinking about the bigger issue of consuming all kinds of "Christian media" and just assuming it's true. What you hear matters. Because faith comes through hearing, and hearing through the Word of Christ. Have a listen!
Was Jesus Crucified with Nails? - Christianity Today
Why I Can't Recommend Joyce Meyer
It's Good Friday and I spend some time reflecting on the vital importance of what Jesus did on this day for us...for YOU!
Easter is Overrated
We've taken the top 20 Bible verses according to Crosswalk.com and talked about them and the implications these verses have on our lives as Christians. In it, we talk about things to say and not to say during suffering, prosperity, and the fruits of the Spirit, among so much else. Humor and Theology is what we do best so please enjoy!
Today I am joined by my brother James Miller, a former Lutheran pastor who recently converted to Catholicism. On this episode, we talk through what led him to his conversion and what he has learned about the Catholic Church since joining. We discussed differences and similarities, arriving at the conclusion of disagreement, but unified in the belief of our Savior Jesus who died and rose from the grave. Have a listen!
The Pod is back! On today's episode, I sit down with Pastor Donavon Riley, aka The Warrior Priest, to talk about his new book, "The Impossible Prize: A Theology of Addiction." We talk about the nature of addiction, why he wanted to write this book, and how does the concept of "free will" and Luther's theology of the bondage of the will influence those who are in bondage to addiction. You're not going to want to miss this episode!
Where you can find Donavon:
Order The Impossible Prize: https://shop.1517.org/collections/1517-publishing-catalog/products/9781962654708-the-impossible-prize
Writing and Podcasting at 1517: https://www.1517.org/1517-search-result?qSearch=donavon%20riley
Substack: https://donavonlriley.substack.com/
Previous conversation on Suffering Servants: https://sufferingservants.buzzsprout.com/2105824/episodes/13046988-suffering-with-addiction-with-donavon-riley
We're taking a break this week from some serious things to have a little fun! Together we take a look at a "Top 30" list of things to do during the summer in Michigan. We hope you enjoy and maybe laugh a little bit.
Top 30 Things To Do In Michigan During Summer
On this episode, we read an article about Richard Dawkins' claim that he is a "cultural Christian." What the heck does that mean in our society today? Can one truly be a cultural Christian? How does that impact our walks with Jesus and our interactions with our neighbors? All that and more on this week's show. Enjoy!
Richard Dawkins and Mere Cultural Christianity
Follies include satanic preaching from the Episcopal Church, Juneteenth, and hiking with Senior High youth.
On today's episode we explore a very recent article about the decline of "mainline" churches and what are the implications of that for the marginalized, if any at all. Why are our churches declining when some preach to the "itching ears"? Do we just strive to be in a place of belonging? Is the government effectively providing for the poor? What about charity and good works among nominal Christians or non-Christians? All of that and more on the show today. Enjoy!
The Great Dechurching Will Hurt Poor People by Matthew Loftus
Follies this week include Roman Catholicism and Steven Furtick.
Today we explore a thought provoking sermon from RC Sproul on counting the cost to follow Jesus. Can we truly count the cost? Do we even understand what the cost is? None the less, Jesus says to us, "follow me."
Follies are back this week and include "oppressive" Christianity and Jesus needing forgiveness.
After a big transition for the pastors, we are BACK! In the beginning of our sermons we often pray, "Lord, help us to become more than just hearers of the Word, but doers of it as well. Amen." Today we talk about what that means. Church Father CFW Walther writes a sermon in 1849 about the dangers of JUST hearing the Word and going through the motions. As the apostle James will say, "faith without works is dead." Hearing and believing the Word will inevitable lead us to "doing the Word." Of course, we know that it is not us doing the good works, but the Holy Spirit in us, brought upon by hearing the Word, that does the Word in us. Have a listen!
Interested in more Walther? Buy the book that Pastor Nick and Pastor Tyler have HERE
We're back with another heresy today. We all know about the loud and obvious prosperity Gospel...but what about the subtle prosperity Gospel of positivity, optimism, and speaking blessings? How can we tell if what we are hearing is the prosperity Gospel? How can (should we) we defend against it? All this and more on this week's episode!
Follies of the week include cultish social media groups, a new movie, and Washington's removal of the Bar Exam.
Pastor Tyler is joined this week by Pastor Mark Renner to talk about Pastor Mark's new book, "Curious Cases: A Series of Short Pastor Case Studies." In this book, Pastor Mark explores different situations that have arisen in the church, or that might arise in the church, and how might we as THE Church work with God's people. It is a book that can be used in studies, staff matters, or just to inform the Christian about struggles they may not have considered before. Praise be to Christ for Pastor Mark's work and love for people in writing this book!
Amazon: Curious Cases
Wipf and Stock: Curious Cases
What about the mysteries of God? Can we be in the dark about some of God's ways and works? Today we talk about an ancient heresy called "Gnosticism" that continues to rear its ugly head in 2024. A belief that pits the physical against the spiritual, Gnosticism is a denial of the human nature of Jesus Christ and the holding on to the "spiritual nature" of God in our worship and daily life. Unfortunately, a denial of Christ's humanity is a denial of Christ himself. How do we bridge this gap? All that and more on this weeks episode!
Follies of the week include a famous WWII picture being cancelled, and Travis Kelce's "rules" for dating Taylor Swift.
Pastor Nick joins us again as we talk about a heresy that we all may have heard, subscribed to, and even believed in at some point: the sneaky "Moralistic Therapeutic Deism." The temptation for many Christians is to worship God and ask God to fix our problems, to make us feel "better", and to be soft and comforting. While God can fix our problems in this world, while He certainly makes us feel better in the assurance of His grace, mercy, and forgiveness, and while He certainly is the great Comforter, there is SO much more to God. We must not forget Christ and Christ crucified FOR YOU!
We know this is a very brief overview, so if you would like to hear more or ask more questions, please do not hesitate to ask. You can find our emails on the Family of God website at www.fogdetroit.com
Folly of the week features cereal for dinner!
This episode was recorded on Ash Wednesday, so naturally we talked about the significance of the ashes we receive on our foreheads and how that has been taken for granted in the Church.
Follies include Canada (obviously) and Super Bowl themed church services.
Joining me on this week's episode is my dear brother in Christ, Josh Kittleman, the Director of Christian Family Formation at Christ Our Savior in Livonia. Together we talk through his journey from small parish ministry, to the University level, and then to big parish ministry and what he has seen, learned, and experienced. We also are sure to hit one of the things that Josh struggles with on a regular basis: his diagnosis of ADHD. Josh is incredibly transparent and humorously walks through what his life and his approach to ministry has shifted knowing that he struggles in this. We both pray that as you listen to his story that you receive comfort, reassurance, and confidence knowing that you are not alone in your sufferings.
Pastor Nick joins in on the fun as FollyFest continues this week with the idolatry and attachment of Scripture to sports, removing God's Word from churches, the wokeness of Christian Universities, and pro-life activists being sentenced to prison. We tie all this into this week's featured heresy of Pelagianism. Do we have the ability to be "good"? Do we choose God or does God choose us? What are the implications of the dangerous doctrine of double predestination? All of that and more on this week's episode! Enjoy.
"This Train" is sung by Sister Rosetta Tharpe.
Lots to catch up on today. On this episode we talk through a couple of follies that are hitting our culture - the remaking of classic movies, the stupidity of Christians, and a GenZ Bible to name a few. We then take a constructive turn to begin talking about some of the ancient heresies (a different kind of folly) that have plagued our churches for generations. Today we touched on Nestorianism, the belief that Christ's two natures can be separated. What are the implications of this for our faith and why is it so important to confess in the hypostatic union (Jesus is 100% man AND 100% God)? All this and more on this week's episode of Suffering Servants! Enjoy.
In this frigid episode, we talk about the impact of the cold on our ministry. We then pick up the conversation where we left off last week about apostasy, but this time with a bit of a stronger emphasis on the pastor. We also take a look at an article by Carl Trueman, who writes what the church can learn from the Lutherans, in particular suffering. Enjoy!
Lessons from the Lutheran Tradition by Carl Trueman
Follies this week include the cold and snow and the "church" of unbelievers!
We don't talk about apostasy much in the church. "Falling away" is a very real thing that is plaguing the church and people don't even realize it. Scripture speaks of warnings many times and we would do well to heed to these warnings. In this episode, we talk about what apostasy is, how does one end up falling into this, and how can we prevent it. We go where God has promised to reveal Himself to us: in the assembly where we hear His Word and receive His gifts.
We are kicking off 2024 with a bang, talking about Christian charity and what is our response to the love that Christ Jesus has shown to us. In this episode we review Christmas, both personally and at the Family of God (the good, bad, and ugly). We then take a look at an article written by a student that we felt missed the mark about why we as Christians love and serve our neighbors. Is it a "should"? Or is it a "get to" when it comes to charity. All that and more as we bring in another year on the Suffering Servants podcast. Enjoy!
New music is "Cold World" by Red from their latest album "Rated R"
It's the first Christmas episode for the Suffering Servants podcast! We are joined by two familiar voices (Nick and Joel) and a new voice (Dean) on the show today where we talk about a ton of Christmas happenings. Has Christmas become "too secular"? What can our response be? What is the significance of the Virgin Mary giving birth to a son? Does it matter that she is a virgin? (yes). We also talk about some of our favorite Christmas memories. Enjoy! And Merry Christmas to all of you.
note from Tyler - this was my first time with 5 microphones and as an amateur podcaster, it was harder to navigate than I thought. Please bear with us through some of the echo, especially for the last 25 minutes or so. While the sound might not be pristine, the content is exceptional.
Today, as Pastor Hill finishes his vacation, Tyler is joined by a dear friend of the Family of God. Ron Hughes has been serving with us for over ten years and has become an intricate part of the ministry. Our people love him and gravitate towards him because of his experiences. On the show today, we talk about those experiences. As a veteran in recovery, Ron has much to say with regard to faith, community, and the power of the Holy Spirit. He talks about his journey as a recovering alcoholic and how God works in our lives, especially at our lowest moments. We pray that you are blessed by the conversation today.
If you would like to be put in contact with Ron, please let us know!
We are back this week with an intriguing read: Faith in the Face of Tyranny.
We talk through the importance of the Bethel Confession, a document composed by German pastors Herman Sasse and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, with a similar skeleton to the Formula of Concord. What is the role of the Holy Scriptures in our lives? What about the Aryan Paragraph and the Jewish Question? What is the risk to taking a stand when groups openly oppose specific groups of people? All that and more on this week's show.
Follies include virtue signaling, compromising your faith, and "THEE" Ohio State University.
"This episode is incredibly special to me. To sit and chat with one of my favorite people in the whole world truly is such a gift. I pray that you hear my sister's story of her multiple trips to the NICU with her son, Beckham, and with her, truly see the goodness of God even in our suffering." - Tyler
We do not own the rights to the song "Goodness of God" by Jenn Johnson and Bethel Music.
On today's episode, Pastor Nick joins us as we continue our discussion on Pastor Bradley Gray's book, Finding God in the Darkness. Mental illness has a way of crippling the one that it ails and so often it feels like there is no way out. Empty words are spoken over the one who is suffering, yet there still seems to be no hope. What is the solution? Is it memorizing more Scripture? Is it "just have more faith"? Or is it turning to the only one who can sit with you in the depths of mental illness, because He truly does value your suffering, and refuses to let you go through it alone. All that and more on this weeks episode! Enjoy!
Another episode about Depression: https://sufferingservants.buzzsprout.com/2105824/12218750
Follies include alligators in Lake Michigan, the rich in Gaza raging war, and social media censoring a manifesto of a murderer. You can read it here.
On this week's episode, we digest Halloween and all the happenings from the week. Then we take a turn and look at chapter one of Pastor Bradley Gray's "Finding God in the Darkness." Pastor Gray is writing from a personal traumatic experience from a few years ago in which God allowed him and his family to experience some intense suffering. What has he learned? Where was God? What are some of the platitudes that we may offer up as an excuse to not suffer with our brothers and sisters? What is our response to suffering? All of this and more this week. Have a listen!
Purchase Pastor Bradley Gray's book, Finding God in the DarknessFollies of the week include a Halloween snafu, and, of course, the ongoing Michigan Football scandal.
"He who stands alone falls." Pastor Hill drops a great thought about men and women in the ministry who try to be "hero" servants and serve a great mission, but do it alone. This person has made themselves a prime target for the enemy to pick them off and suffocate them. What can we do? How can seminary training prepare pastors better so that they don't end up trying to serve Christ by their lonesome? Pastor Joel Werner of Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Livonia joins our conversation today as a pastor with nearly four months of pastoral experience. He shares from his time at the seminary and provides some deep insights into what the Church may or may not be able to do to equip not just pastors, but members of the congregation. We also review (from last week) the six elements that the Church should perhaps look inwardly about. All that and a bag of chips on this week's episode!
Follies include a tire store, and of course, Michigan football.
"Pia Desideria" Reimagined for Contemporary Theological Education:
https://place.asburyseminary.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1299&context=asburyjournal
A History of Lutheranism:
https://www.amazon.com/History-Lutheranism-Eric-W-Gritsch/dp/0800634721/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3FYM61WJMSEPU&keywords=a+history+of+lutheranism+gritsch&qid=1697733866&sprefix=%2Caps%2C220&sr=8-1
On today's episode, we introduce pietism! What role does piety play in our lives as Christians? Pastor Hill unveils 6 concepts that we would do well to pay attention to in our fight against an ever changing Christian culture:
1) Restore the Bible to the people
2) Revive the priesthood of all believers
3) Understand that knowledge devoid of action is empty
4) Avoid unnecessary dogmatic arguments
5) Reform pastoral formation to show pastors how to BE disciples
6) Preaching without edification is dangerous.
We will be unpacking these concepts more next week. For now, enjoy the introductory conversation!
Follies of the week include a Florida pastor using his people to build a multi-million dollar entity, and online worshippers lead in Bible reading.
"Pia Desideria" Reimagined for Contemporary Theological Education:
https://place.asburyseminary.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1299&context=asburyjournal
A History of Lutheranism:
https://www.amazon.com/History-Lutheranism-Eric-W-Gritsch/dp/0800634721/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3FYM61WJMSEPU&keywords=a+history+of+lutheranism+gritsch&qid=1697733866&sprefix=%2Caps%2C220&sr=8-1
The Rev. Dr. Jim Marriott joins Tyler on this week's episode! Jim taught at Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, where Tyler attended, and now serves as the Associate Pastor at small Texas church outside of Austin. He also teaches theology and music at Concordia University Texas where he is also the chairman of the theology department. On this episode, we talked about the use of liturgy in suffering, difficult transitions, and yes, we talked a little bit about the ongoing struggle with Concordia and the LCMS. Enjoy!
The guys are joined by Pastor Nick Gapski this week! Nick did his vicarage with the Family of God two years ago and was installed as the new Associate Pastor this past summer. Together, we talk about Romans 13 and what authority does the government really have over God's people. Are we to blindly submit to every mandate/law the government makes just because God has "given them authority?" What if they are harmful to our neighbors or against God's Word? All that and more on the final episode on Secular Authority.
Follies this week include a pastoral moment, Canada (of course), and Travis Kelce & Taylor Swift.
Today we continue our discussion on Martin Luther's treatise on "Secular Authority - how far does it extend?". We talk through men of Scripture who were disobedient for the sake of God and talk about four approaches when we face challenge from the culture.
Today's follies include a new church in Detroit, and THEE Detroit Lions football team.
You can purchase Selections from Martin Luther here: https://www.amazon.com/Martin-Luther-Selections-His-Writings/dp/0385098766
PDF of the Treatise on Secular Authority: http://www.onthewing.org/user/Luther%20-%20Extent%20of%20Secular%20Authority.pdf
Christ and Culture:
https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Culture-Torchbooks-Richard-Niebuhr/dp/0061300039/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1NUSX5T0NQJDU&keywords=christ+and+culture+by+richard+niebuhr&qid=1695306347&sprefix=christ+culture+%2Caps%2C101&sr=8-1
Romans 13. What does this mean? Are we really to obey all government orders because "God tells us to obey our government?" When should we be disobedient towards government. On today's episode, Pastors Jim and Tyler begin looking at Martin Luther's "Treatise on Secular Authority - How far it extends", in the first of multiple episodes. There MUST be limits to the government that God has put in place. When that line is crossed, what are we to do?
You can purchase Selections from Martin Luther here: https://www.amazon.com/Martin-Luther-Selections-His-Writings/dp/0385098766
PDF of the Treatise on Secular Authority: http://www.onthewing.org/user/Luther%20-%20Extent%20of%20Secular%20Authority.pdf
On this week's episode, Tyler interviews a great friend of the podcast and the Family of God. Penny Armbruster is the Executive Director of The Luke Clinic in Detroit and Flint. The Luke Clinic is a free pro-life 501c3 non-profit charity dedicated to taking care of mothers, providing prenatal care, and infant care. On this episode we talk about compassion, relationships, suffering, women's health, and the importance of family.
Consider supporting the Luke Clinic by visiting their website: www.thelukeclinic.org
On this exciting episode, Pastor Hill and Pastor Cronkright sit down with a long time friend and professor, Rev. Dr. Charles Schulz of Concordia University Ann Arbor. Recently, Pastor Schulz has returned from a two week stint in South Sudan where he taught church history at the seminary. We talk with him about his experience there, the need for the Gospel, and what we can learn here in the United States from our brothers and sisters in Africa.
If you are interested in having Pastor Schulz speak at your church, please contact Tyler at tyler@fogdetroit.com
On this episode, we are back together again talking about Abdu Murray's book, Saving Truth. Today we discuss the true nature of the human heart. Hollywood says, "follow your heart," God's Word says that our hearts are evil, wicked, and deceitful. So what are we to do? How do we bridge that gap? God has provided the answer in Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross for you.
Follies of the week include a return of the Washington Redskins football team, the Baltimore Orioles baseball team, and a Joel Osteen affirmation home device.
Pastor Bill Wrede of Denison, Iowa joins me (Tyler) on this week's episode. In our conversation, we talked about the hard transition from the Seminary to being a parish pastor, to the struggles he experienced as a Seminary employee, and lastly, his time serving at Ground Zero in New York on September 11th and in the days following. This man has quite the story, and we can't wait for you to hear it!
You can also view the episode on YouTube.
On today's episode, in the middle of a tornado, we talk about confession and why it's so difficult for us. How does this affect our worship? Our table fellowship? At the end of the day, confession is a gift that God gives us to receive the forgiveness of our sins.
Follies this week include a drag queen presiding over a Jewish service (Joseph is in drag with his fabulous coat of many colors), and INSANE money to play a kids' game.
Its just two pastors talking today about all things culture and Family of God. Pastor Hill and Pastor Cronkright discuss some recent events at the Family of God in a "debriefing" episode. We will continue to do these episodes from time to time so that you get a glimpse into our world in southwest Detroit. Thank you all for your prayers and support.
Follies of the week include miscommunications about preaching and Jason Aldean's new music video, "Try That In A Small Town," found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1_RKu-ESCY
America is addicted to sex. Pornography, fornication, various sexual lifestyles, etc. From pronouns to how you "identify," sex is the driving factor of identity in our culture today. Continuing the conversation from last episode, where is the line that the Christian draws? Can one say "no" to culture and sacrifice his, or her, desires for the sake of the Kingdom of God? Where is our TRUE identity found? All that and more on this week's episode.
Follies include the misogynistic Lord's Prayer, and churches in parades!
Other notes:
Saving Truth by Abdu MurrayThe Sparkle Creed- courtesy of our friend Nathan.
Pastor Hill and Pastor Cronkright discuss a shocking article found in Erwin Lutzer's book, When A Nation Forgets God, about propaganda. The article, called "The Overhauling of Straight America," written in 1987 gives the blueprint for how America was to become desensitized to homosexuality and accept it as normal. 36 years later, this plan has been followed to a T.
To be blunt, America you have been duped and bamboozled into accepting, celebrating, and normalizing sin of all kinds, thanks to propaganda. What do we do now? Is there anything we can do?
Please, listen for yourself. Read the article for yourself. We aren't making this up.
Perhaps the most polarizing episode to date. Tyler sits down with Donavon Riley to talk about addiction. What is the nature of the addict? What don't "outsiders" understand? What is truly at the core of addiction and is there really a cure?
This particular episode of Suffering Servants will shock your system. It’s raw and it’s real. But it’s also necessary for us to understand our addicted brothers and sisters and what they go through, oftentimes alone. If you listen to just one episode of this pod, make sure it’s this one. You won’t be disappointed. I think it will help you sympathize with the addicted and perhaps give an inside glimpse of the life they go through, always asking the question, "Am I good enough?"
Support Donavon's work on the Banned Books podcasts, Warrior Priest podcast, and 1517.org
His book's Crucifying Religion and The Withertongue Emails can be purchased on Amazon
Were we really enemies of God? I thought God loves all of us? Well, he does. So much so that he gave his son to die for you and forgive you. In this sacrifice, God has made you his child and an inheritor of the kingdom. You are no longer his enemy.
You can watch all of the Family of God After Action Reviews on Facebook, YouTube, or the Family of God website (www.fogdetroit.com).
It's all about the Lord's Supper today. On this episode, we talk about Rev. Jonathan Fisk's book, Without Flesh: Why the Church is Dying Even Though Jesus is Alive.It seems that more and more churches have abandoned good preaching and faithful administration of the Sacraments. Could this be why Christianity appears to be in shambles? Is there anything that can be done about it? All that and more. Have a listen!
Today's follies: Transphobic horses, ChatGBT sermons and AI preachers, and baseball!
Yesterday at Family of God we talked about the calling of St. Matthew, someone who was perhaps at his lowest point, yet Jesus still calls him to be HIS disciple. Matthew immediately follows. What can we learn about our walk with Jesus in this story? What is the significance of Jesus dining with sinners? Have a listen!
Videos are found on the Family of God Facebook page, YouTube channel, and website www.fogdetroit.com. Look for the logo with blue circle and broken chains.
Why the Holy Spirit? What is the work of the Holy Spirit? What if the Holy Spirit took a Sabbatical? Why do we NEED the Holy Spirit? Hear Pastor Hill preach at Christ Our Savior in Livonia, Michigan.Â
You can watch the full sermon with Pastor Hill's slides here: https://christoursavior.org/worship-at-home?sapurl=LytrajloL2xiL21pLys4OWhtNHZ6P2F1dG9wbGF5PXRydWUmYnJhbmRpbmc9dHJ1ZSZlbWJlZD10cnVlJnJlY2VudFJvdXRlPWFwcC53ZWItYXBwLmxpYnJhcnkubWVkaWEtc2VyaWVzJnJlY2VudFJvdXRlU2x1Zz0lMkJyODV6dHk0
"Silence in the face of evil is itself evil...Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act."
Bold words to consider on this episode of the podcast. The LA Dodgers made big news this week as they are giving an award to a group that openly mocks Christianity. It's been revealed that the US government is actively protecting child-predators. Who is speaking up? Who is calling evil, evil? Is the Church doing enough? A new age of martyrdom is upon us, so let us fight the good fight of faith with Jesus Christ who has called us OUT of this world.
Ascension Sunday was exciting at Family of God. A brief review of Pastor Hill's sermon and Pastor Cronkright's sermon on Ascension Day.
SIDENOTE - Videos for these episodes are posted on the Family of God Facebook and YouTube pages.
Pastor Tyler interviews Deaconess Intern Terry Priestley of St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester Michigan & Family of God Detroit. In this episode, they discuss the importance of women's ministry, physical presence for those in need, and the importance of listening. They also discuss the vicious cycle that many women involved in toxic relationships go through. Terry also shares of her own experiences, suffering, trauma, and how she has overcome only by the power of Jesus Christ. We pray you are blessed by the conversation today.
Today we talk about Eric Metaxas' book Letter to the American Church and the idol of evangelism. Has the American Church become so focused on evangelism and worldly justice that we have compromised the truths of God's Word? Consider this passage from Metaxas:
"Our responsibilities as Christians go beyond mere 'evangelism' ... On what issues are we ourselves being silent, and for what reasons? The unborn are being murdered and their body parts sold for profit. Are we not to mention this for fear of driving someone away from God? Or do we ourselves not quite believe it or wish to believe it? Very young children in schools are being fed pernicious ideas on the subject of sexuality - ideas with which their young minds are quite unable to cope, and to which their own parents object. Older children are being so confused by sexual activists that they agree to have their bodies mutilated, so that they can never become the men and women God has created them to be. Socialistic and communistic ideas are being pushed everywhere. These will end up harming the poor more than anyone, although those pushing these ideas boldly spread the lie that any who oppose these wicked ideas secretly hate the poor. Are we really to keep silent about these things?"
Follies this week include Michigan basketball star Hunter Dickinson and the Trans-God.
We are back from Concordia Theological Seminary - Fort Wayne where we have just received some GREAT news for the Family of God and St. Stephen. We have a new Associate Pastor joining our staff this summer and that had us thinking about Call Day and all of the new pastors that will be entering the ministry. Are these men ready for ministry? Sure! Are they ready to suffer? That is a different story that even we are still figuring out as pastors too.
On this episode we take a look at Paul House's book, Bonhoeffer's Seminary Vision, and talk about a scary word: Affliction. We talk about preparing men and women for the ministry in a world eerily similar to Bonhoeffer's day. We also discuss the vital importance of finding a Barnabas, an advocate to go to war with you against the enemy.
Pastor Cronkright's sermon from St. John Lutheran Church in Rochester on Sunday April 30th. In a series called, "Now what?" we look at life for Peter post-resurrection when Jesus says to him, "Follow me." What does that mean for Peter? What does that mean for us? Consider the words of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, "When Christ calls a man, he bids him to come and die."
You can watch the full service here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ov45AvlKDA&t=1832s
What can the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus on Easter morning tell us about our own journeys and failures to recognize Jesus? It is only when Jesus reveals himself to us in his Word and Sacraments that we can believe in Him and have true hope.
On this episode, Tyler sits down with a dear friend, Kevin Dykstra. Kevin served as a pastor in the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod for about two years after graduating from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis. He has preached multiple times at Family of God in the past and has a huge heart for ministry. Today, we talk about unspoken suffering. Suffering that many pastors encounter while in the seminary and while in their congregations. Suffering that ultimately led to Kevin resigning from his call and the ministry as a whole. There is a lot to learn within the Church. Continue to pray for Kevin and for pastors around the world that suffer for the sake of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Tyler is back after a short haitus amidst the Easter and Holy Week craziness. Here what he and Pastor Jim talked about this past Sunday when Jesus appears to the disciples in the upper room for the first time. Jesus has made the ultimate great reversal turning failure into forgivness, futility into mission, and no future into hope and eternal life. Have a listen!
We're back from a Holy Week break and we're diving into Herman Hoeksema's book called The Royal Sufferer. We're going to be talking about the crucifixion of Christ and the sufferings of Jesus that were necessary...NECESSARY...in order for us to be saved from our sin. Jesus chose to go to battle without an army...and He wins.
Follies this week include Anne Frank being pulled from a library, but not for the reasons you think, and the Hebrew-Israelites make their debut!
1517 Easter is Overrated - by Rev. Tyler Cronkright
https://www.1517.org/articles/easter-is-overrated
Jesus Dietrich and Me Podcast - Easter is Overrated
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tyler-cronkright/episodes/Easter-Is-Overrated-Ep--79-e1h688u
Hebrew Israelites article
https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2980638815492-was-esau-edom-white-demolishing-hebrew-israelite-lies-part-1?_f=app_share&s=a3&share_destination_id=MTM5ODg1OTY4LTE2ODA2NTAwMTY3MzA%3D&pd=09SwjIlo&hl=en_US&send_time=1680650016&actBtn=floatShareButton&trans_data=%7B%22platform%22%3A1%2C%22cv%22%3A%2223.13.1%22%2C%22languages%22%3A%22en%22%7D
On today's episode we spend a few minutes talking about the tragic shooting in Nashville and what can the Church do in response. We also revisit one of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's most known works, The Cost of Discipleship. We focus in on Chapter 4, Discipleship and the Cross, specifically the line that Dietrich writes about how the call of Christ is to detach from the world. Do we do this? Can we do this? What kind of suffering comes with this? The comfort for the Christian is that Christ is carrying that cross WITH us. Have a listen!
Follies of the week include CNN and March Madness emotions.
On this episode, Tyler sits down with Pastor Randy Duncan, the campus pastor at Concordia University Ann Arbor. In this conversation, they talk about the struggles of college students and the importance of campus ministry. They also take some time to talk about Randy's suffering in his own life, including divorce, and how God has delivered him from this.Â
Family of God visited Crown of Life Lutheran Church in Rochester Hills, MI yesterday. Pastor Cronkright preached on the divine appointment that Jesus makes with Martha, Mary, and Lazarus, meeting three specific needs for three specific people. Ultimately, we hear that Jesus is the Resurrection and the life. But, do you believe this?
What is the best "Christian" movie? We break down a list of the top 64 Christian movies. Who is number 1? It might shock you...or maybe not.
We also make some awesome recommendations of movies that you maybe haven't seen, such as Keys to the Kingdom (a must watch!), Flywheel, and The Ultimate Gift.
So get to watching!
Text and sermon from Sunday March 12 from Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church.
In this sermon, I (Tyler) move from the pulpit near the end of the sermon and walk across the sanctuary. The end of the sermon makes more sense if you know what I am doing.Â
The video of the sermon is available here at about 35:30:https://christoursavior.org/worship-at-home?sapurl=LytrajloL2xiL21pLyttY2t6am1uP2F1dG9wbGF5PXRydWUmYnJhbmRpbmc9dHJ1ZSZlbWJlZD10cnVlJnJlY2VudFJvdXRlPWFwcC53ZWItYXBwLmxpYnJhcnkubWVkaWEtc2VyaWVzJnJlY2VudFJvdXRlU2x1Zz0lMkJyODV6dHk0
On this episode, Tyler sits down with Pastor Christian Jones of the Franklin Avenue Mission and Flint Mission Network to talk about the struggles of pastoring in the inner city. The conversation consists of violence, addiction, social justice, family life, and raising up leaders. When we say they covered it all, we mean it. Have a listen!
Learn more about the Flint Mission Network by going to their website: https://flintmissionnetwork.org/
Let's talk a little about Nicodemus, who is supposed to be a smart guy! Jesus meets him and preaches the Gospel, the simple Gospel, the powerful Gospel. Nicodemus just sits and listens, as do we. Let's not take these Gospel promises for granted.
On this episode, we take a look at Erwin Lutzer's "When a Nation Forgets God." We talk about the description of a Christian that can withstand persecution and opposition and ordinary heroes that God used over the course of time to grow His Kingdom. Some of these ordinary heroes include Corrie ten Boom, Charles Colson, and Zakaria Botros. Have a listen!
Follies of the week include: Canceling church, more virtue signaling, and PETA!
Tyler sits down with Chad Bird of 1517 and talks about all kinds of suffering. As an Old Testament scholar, Chad shares about how God uses suffering in the Bible and how that is applied to us today.
He then talks about suffering he inflicted upon himself as he pursued his own goals and achievements. How did God bring him back to Himself in this suffering?
And lastly, we take some time to discuss the recent tragedy in Chad's life as he and his family mourn the death of Chad's son Luke, who died last summer in a hiking accident. Where is God in our grief? What promises can we cling to?
Check Chad out on 1517.org and on the 40 Minutes in the Old Testament podcast
We react to the polarizing Super Bowl ad, "He gets us." What does this mean? Is Jesus "getting us" the same as Jesus "dying for us"?Â
We also take some time to talk about St. Valentine! Have a listen.
Tyler sits down with Pastor Gabe Kasper, Lead Pastor at University Lutheran Chapel in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It's a very real conversation about ministry leaders suffering with depression. We try to describe the feelings of inadequacy and the day-to-day fears when you are in the middle of it. Ultimately, we talk about Christ Jesus who sits with us in the suffering and gives us hope and promise that this all will end.
Side note, if you would like to talk about mental health and struggles you may be going through, please feel free to reach out to us. We are here for you.
Today we take a look at Alistair Begg's book, "Brave by Faith" and discuss what it means to draw lines in Babylon. For Daniel and his friends it was drawn at food. Seems like an odd place to say "no", but it prevented other lines from being crossed as the Babylonians attempted to assimilate the Israelite people. What does this look like for us in 2023 America? All that and more on today's episode.
Follies of the week include virtue signaling and the emergence of new pronouns.
You can pick up a copy of Alistair Begg's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Brave-Faith-Alistair-Begg/dp/1784986666/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1AY5G8ICDFCHR&keywords=brave+by+faith&qid=1675355020&sprefix=brave+by+faith%2Caps%2C113&sr=8-1
We take a look at everyone's favorite Beatitudes, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account." (Matthew 5:10-11). When we suffer, is it really because we are Christians? What if you're not suffering? All this and more on today's episode!
Follies of the week include double standards and politicizing tragedy.
Satan has been working overtime. & every now and again, we will just vent and talk about the happenings in the inner city. Today we cover baptism and the sixth commandment, and then we get very real. From physical violence, to verbal harassment, we see it all. Have a listen and let us know what you think.
Thanks, Bill, for a great question today. Does God really need the martyrs in order to build his church? Why are there martyrs if he doesn't? Pastor Hill also makes a case that every Christian is, in fact, a living martyr. All that and more on this week's episode! Have a listen.
Follies of the week include hidden government files and is it too easy to get saved?
To begin the journey of suffering in the Christian life, we must first talk about why is there suffering in the first place? Is God punishing me? Do I deserve it? What can I do amidst the suffering? We break down four main reasons for suffering: 1) Correction, 2) Discipline, 3) Persecution, 4) Hidden Purpose.
Have a listen! Rate, review, contact us!