Ground Up Faith: Recent Episodes
Jonathan
A Podcast of Pastor Jonathan Schnibben presenting Sermons, Bible Study's, Interviews and more that digs into the very ground of what it means to develop as a follower of God. Together we'll get to know the peculiar people, places, and practices of Christianity.
We may know many of the stories of the Bible; and we may even have a basic outline in our minds; but those stories come to life in new and exciting ways when we appreciate the Big Picture of the Bible's one story. In this four part series we'll do just that!
Dietrich Bonhoeffer is one of the most important theologians, not just of the 20th Century, but for the entire church. His writings and his shows a true life of discipleship.
The Book of Revelation has often been considered one of the most confusing and frightening books in the Bible. Many through the centuries have doubted that it should even be in the Bible. Martin Luther was equally perplexed by it. On one occasion he wrote that "Christ is neither known nor taught in it." But then on another occasion he wrote that it can be a book of immense "hope and comfort."
We are going to tackle this most perplexing Book of the Bible and through our studies find it to be a rich treasure of hope and comfort as Luther said. Along the way we will also wrestle with how this book is so misused and just how much that damages the work of Christians throughout the world. I know you're going to have a good time and learn a lot with this one!
The Book of Revelation has often been considered one of the most confusing and frightening books in the Bible. Many through the centuries have doubted that it should even be in the Bible. Martin Luther was equally perplexed by it. On one occasion he wrote that "Christ is neither known nor taught in it." But then on another occasion he wrote that it can be a book of immense "hope and comfort."
We are going to tackle this most perplexing Book of the Bible and through our studies find it to be a rich treasure of hope and comfort as Luther said. Along the way we will also wrestle with how this book is so misused and just how much that damages the work of Christians throughout the world. I know you're going to have a good time and learn a lot with this one!
The Book of Revelation has often been considered one of the most confusing and frightening books in the Bible. Many through the centuries have doubted that it should even be in the Bible. Martin Luther was equally perplexed by it. On one occasion he wrote that "Christ is neither known nor taught in it." But then on another occasion he wrote that it can be a book of immense "hope and comfort."
We are going to tackle this most perplexing Book of the Bible and through our studies find it to be a rich treasure of hope and comfort as Luther said. Along the way we will also wrestle with how this book is so misused and just how much that damages the work of Christians throughout the world. I know you're going to have a good time and learn a lot with this one!
The Book of Revelation has often been considered one of the most confusing and frightening books in the Bible. Many through the centuries have doubted that it should even be in the Bible. Martin Luther was equally perplexed by it. On one occasion he wrote that "Christ is neither known nor taught in it." But then on another occasion he wrote that it can be a book of immense "hope and comfort."
We are going to tackle this most perplexing Book of the Bible and through our studies find it to be a rich treasure of hope and comfort as Luther said. Along the way we will also wrestle with how this book is so misused and just how much that damages the work of Christians throughout the world. I know you're going to have a good time and learn a lot with this one!
The Book of Revelation has often been considered one of the most confusing and frightening books in the Bible. Many through the centuries have doubted that it should even be in the Bible. Martin Luther was equally perplexed by it. On one occasion he wrote that "Christ is neither known nor taught in it." But then on another occasion he wrote that it can be a book of immense "hope and comfort."
We are going to tackle this most perplexing Book of the Bible and through our studies find it to be a rich treasure of hope and comfort as Luther said. Along the way we will also wrestle with how this book is so misused and just how much that damages the work of Christians throughout the world. I know you're going to have a good time and learn a lot with this one!
The Book of Revelation has often been considered one of the most confusing and frightening books in the Bible. Many through the centuries have doubted that it should even be in the Bible. Martin Luther was equally perplexed by it. On one occasion he wrote that "Christ is neither known nor taught in it." But then on another occasion he wrote that it can be a book of immense "hope and comfort."
We are going to tackle this most perplexing Book of the Bible and through our studies find it to be a rich treasure of hope and comfort as Luther said. Along the way we will also wrestle with how this book is so misused and just how much that damages the work of Christians throughout the world. I know you're going to have a good time and learn a lot with this one!
In Theography, a theological biography of Jesus, we will get to know Jesus in a new and fresh way. On this episode we look at the resurrection of Jesus and consider what he was doing for the 40 days he was on Earth prior to his ascension.
In Theography, a theological biography of Jesus, we will get to know Jesus in a new and fresh way. On this episode we look at the accounts of Jesus' Passion and Death.
In Theography, a theological biography of Jesus, we will get to know Jesus in a new and fresh way. On this episode we look at the Lukan Travel Narrative and consider both the stories within and the significance of this part of Luke's Gospel within the Jesus story.
Theography, a theological biography of Jesus, we will get to know Jesus in a new and fresh way. On this episode we will consider the beginning of Jesus' ministry, his baptism and temptation, the call of his disciples, and his first teachings.
In this, the first of a live five part series we begin exploring who Jesus of Nazareth is. Theography, a theological biography will get to know Jesus in a way we often over look. On this episode we begin with some of the back story of Jesus, look at his birth and consider what the first 30 years of his life look like prior to his public ministry.
On our final installment we go back to the beginning and hear about the first song of U2's first album Boy. The song is I will Follow and it explores the depth of love. We also close with U2's 2002 Super Bowl halftime show.
Today we continue our study with U2's song One. We consider the various ways this song address human community in light of the Gospel.
To watch to U2 preform One Live
https://youtu.be/WvJKGQ5gKKk
To watch an alternative version played and the end of the podcast
https://youtu.be/pMPXzAcIKkI
This week we listen to a conversation between Bono and Eugene Peterson, translator of the Message. We also consider two songs, Yahweh and 40. One is a Psalm and the other a modern day psalm.
This week we continue our look at the music of the Irish Rock Band U2. We consider Sunday Bloody Sunday as a Psalm of Lament and Where the Streets Have no Name as giving voice to our greatest desire, Jesus.
This week we begin a six part series looking at the music of the Band U2 and its faith implications.
Today we hear the Christmas story, its familiar and treasured. But maybe its too familiar and maybe we're missing some of what this is really about. Listen in to find out more!
Today we hear the story of Joseph's Annunciation. You're probably familiar with it...but I bet you've never heard it this way. Listen in to find out more!
In today's episode we hear a fantastic story of John the Baptist in his shocking appearance in the wilderness...only its not so shocking when viewed through the eyes of faith. We can't see this on our own; instead its handed down to us. Listen in to find out more!
In this episode we consider the crucifixion of Jesus in preparation for Christ the King Sunday.
Today we hear the story of the rich fool who brings down his barns to put up larger ones. What does this story have to say to us today in the complexity of our lives? Listen in to find out!
At the NC Synod's 2022 Gathering Bishop Tim Smith issued a challenge to the 197 congregations in our Synod that 70% would become involved in the work of Refugee Resettlement through Lutheran Services of the Carolinas.
As a Fundraiser through Good Shepherd Lutheran Church for the LSC Be The Light Campaign to Resettle Refugees, I will be riding my bike to and from work Monday - Friday for the week of June 27th - July 1st. A one way trip is 19 miles multiplied by the 10 legs is 190 miles! Would you pledge to support the vital, Biblical work of welcoming refugees? If so, please prayerfully consider a per mile pledge (for example, .50 cents a mile comes out to a donation of $95). Or you can give a one time gift for the whole ride.
To give click the link below:
https://www.goodshepherdmtholly.org/give/
Today Jesus promises to send an advocate to accompany us. But what exactly is an advocate and what does this look like in our life? Listen to find out more!
Today we hear Jesus' command to love one another; but the context for this lesson will have a lot to say about what loving really means.
Today we hear Jesus passing along the greatest commandment, to join him in his act of love. But the context of this commandment will open up the true depth of this act of love.
We find Jesus in the Temple today celebrating Jewish Festivals that call people to remember their identity as people of God. Jesus uses that occasion to remind us to consider carefully the voices we listen to in understanding our lives in the light of God.
Today we hear a story about Jesus' time in Jerusalem celebrating Jewish History. He invites us to listen to his voice as opposed to others.
Today we hear the story of Jesus' third appearance to his disciples following his Resurrection. It's an odd story...and yet a familiar one as well. What might it have to say to us today?
In today's sermon we hear the story of doubting Thomas and we wonder about what's so wrong with doubt...and if there may in fact be better names for Thomas. Listen in to find out more.
Today we observe Palm Sunday...only today's account of Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem makes no mention of Palms...what's up with that?
Today we hear about Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We're familiar with people making entrances...we've made a few ourselves. But what does Jesus' entrance have to say to us?
In today's sermon we hear about an evening Jesus Spends with his friends where Mary anoints his feet.
Today we hear the Parable of the Prodigal Son and consider the importance of counting...who counts? Listen on the find out!
Today we consider the Parable of the Prodigal Son...but which character should be the focus of this Parable and what might that say to us?
Today we consider a rather uncomfortable text about challenging stories...alongside it, we consider uncomfortable stories from our own day.
In today's episode of Brewing Thoughts, we consider the Journey of Nicodemus as he moves from being just another Pharisee to being a disciple of Jesus. Along the way we'll consider what his story means for our own faith journey.
Today we hear Jesus tell a story about a gardener caring for an underproducing fig tree. The gardener has a trick up his sleeve for the tree...and that might just be a trick for you as well!
Today we consider the image of a hen gathering her brood under her wings as an image for how Jesus cares for us and invites us to care for others.
Today we hear of an encounter between Jesus and the Pharisees where they express concern for Jesus' well being. We consider in closer detail who these Pharisees are.
Today we again consider the story of Jesus' temptation; but today we consider it alongside our own temptation in the wilderness.
In today's episode of Brewing Thoughts, we pause to consider the origins and the enduring significance of an odd, yet meaningful Christian Practice, Ash Wednesday.
Today we consider Jesus' temptation by the devil in the wilderness. A conversation comes out about how we use Scripture. Have you had a conversation lately about how you use Scripture?
Today we again consider the story of the Transfiguration. We meet two only sons and consider what their relationship might mean for our own faith lives.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Phil Tonnesen; Assistant to the Bishop in the North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). We discuss what it means to be a person of faith, a called person, and what the future of the church looks like among many other things in today's episode.
Today we hear the story of the Transfiguration and we consider the role sleep plays throughout the Gospel of Luke, and in this story today.
In today's episode we consider again the second part of Jesus's sermon on the mount. We focus on how God empowers us for kingdom living.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we talk about Ted Lasso and the Gospel.
In August of 2020 Apple TV released a new show called Ted Lasso. It took the world by storm and chances are, unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard of it.
The show features Ted and his trusty sidekick Coach Beard as American Football coaches moving to England to coach football…or as we’d call it, soccer.
Ted is upbeat, polite, and enthusiastic…always finding the best side of everything. It is a breath of fresh air in the midst of an often challenging world.
It was during this same time that Pastor Matthew Titus, who we will meet today, saw something even more in Ted Lasso; a connection to the diving and an entry point into the Bible. He saw so much in fact that he wrote a book about it, The Gospel According to Ted Lasso…Finding God’s love within a show about being out of place, but being in the right place all along. We’ll meet Pastor Matt and hear all about his book in today's show.
Copies of his book can be found here:
https://www.amazon.com/Gospel-According-Ted-Lasso/dp/B09RM4DQXJ/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+gospel+according+to+ted+lasso&qid=1644949972&sprefix=the+gospel+a%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1
Today we consider the second part of Jesus' sermon on the plain. What credit is that to you? he asks. So we'll wonder about credit in our faith lives today.
Today we hear again Jesus' sermon on the plain from Luke. We consider what significant Jesus' posture in today's text means for the story...and our lives.
Today we consider Jesus' sermon on the plain from Luke...it similar and yet different from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew. What's the deal with this and how does it awaken our child like faith?
Once again we take up the story of Jesus by the sea. It'c curious that so many stories about Jesus, and the Bible as a whole, take place around water. What might that have to say to us today?
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, Dr. Thomas, Emma Sellers, and I have conversation around the topic of race in the United States with a particular eye towards education.
Today we hear the story of Jesus' calling of Peter, James, and John as well as the miraculous catch of fish; what fresh insight will this text hold for your life today?
We again wrestle with the second part of the story of Jesus' return to his hometown Synagogue; this time as a rabbi for the first time.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we explore how it often seems that we live in a world more interested in separating us than drawing us together. Yet there are those who work tirelessly to build bridges and draw us together for the common good…today’s guest is one of those people.
Today’s guest is Pastor Eric Shafer, Senior Pastor of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Santa Monica California. Where he is the host of Hope matters, a weekly Youtube Show that features discussions with incredible people. Prior to that he was the Senior Vice President of Philanthropy and Faith Community Relations for Odyssey Networks; Served as the Director of Communications for the ELCA and more.
In 2012 he was named the 2012 Religion Communicator of the Year. Was the Executive Producer for the 2004 Christmas Special, Davey and Goliath’s Snowboard Christmas. and much much more!
Podchurch is a brief devotional series for you on the go. Only have a few minutes? No worries! Got you covered with Podchurch! Take a few minutes while you're on the go with God! Today, we consider part 2 of Jesus in his Hometown Synagogue.
In this sermon we hear the story of Jesus' return to his hometown synagogue where he reads from the Scroll of the Prophet Isaiah and offers his first Sermon.
Today we reflect on the power of reading Scripture aloud, in particular places, in the presence of peculiar people.
In today's Episode we sit down with Pastor Mike Rhyne. He served for seven years as the Bishop of the Allegheny Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. He sits down with Jonathan to talk about his election, his decision to step away, and the unique insights he gained on the church and the world during those seven years.
Today Jesus enters his hometown Synagogue...But he's not alone. He'a accompanied by The Holy Spirit. This same power and presence with Jesus is found in your life to!
From what perspective do you hear stories? Does it make a difference at all? We'll wrestle with these questions and hear this story from a perspective you've probably not taken before in today's devotional.
Reading from Eugene Peterson's The Message
Music: The People by Kyle Preston
This new series, introduced today, will build on the popularity of the Advent Devotionals. Each week you'll hear two devotionals; one an early response to the text and the second and more seriously considered devotional. This week you'll receive them on Wednesday and Friday but more normally you'll get them on Tuesday and Thursday.
May this be a blessing to you in your devotional preparations for Sunday!
We conclude our Advent Devotional with the 24th and Final Chapter of Luke's Gospel. We hear the story of Jesus' Resurrection and consider what it might mean for our Christmas Celebrations today; and beyond!
Musical Credit: Christmas Medley by Two Steps From Hell
Jesus' crucifixion...it's connected to his birth; but more than that, it's connected to us. To find out more listen in!
Holy Communion; it's a profound meal shared across time and space between Jesus and his followers. Today we pause to consider this story and it's place in our lives of faith!
Today we hear the story of the Widow who gave all she had in the Temple Collection. In it we hear echos of what our Christian life looks like. Listen on to find out more!
In today's story the tension between Jesus and the authorities is becoming more prevalent. They are looking for ways to entrap him to rid themselves of their Jesus problem. But Jesus expands their vision of what really is for them and for us...listen on to find out more!
The Triumphal Entry makes a mockery of our understandings of power and might; and it's not the first time God uses acting to communicate a message like this. Listen in to find out more!
Today we hear the familiar story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. Jesus turns our worldview upside down; and again he does it here...Listen to find out more!
Today we consider what I've always read as a challenging text; Jesus healing 10 leapers...What's so challenging about this text and what might it say to us? Listen to find out!
Today we hear a familiar story; that of the Rich Man and Lazarus; but we consider it from an unlikely perspective.
Today we consider the cost of discipleship...does it really mean we have to hate mother and father and all others? What's going on in this text? Listen on to find out more.
Today we pause to consider the parable of the Mustard Seed...Though in Luke the focus is shifted from us and our action to God...What might you hear today? Listen on to find out more!
Today we hear Jesus' discourse on not worrying...but what does that mean; and, what does that look like in our lives? To find out take a little time to listen.
Lord teach us to pray...so ask the disciples of Jesus. Today we consider what it looks like to build a habit of prayer.
The Parable of the Good Samaritan, it's an incredibly familiar story; and yet it is so timely for today...this moment. Listen in to find out why.
Today we reach the account of Jesus' transfiguration. We also reach the point of Jesus turning is face to Jerusalem; thus starting a journey from the Galilee to Jerusalem, and ultimately the cross. What significance do journey's have in our lives? and in the ministry of Jesus? listen to find out!
Today Jesus speaks to us about a mysterious traveling companion; and indwelling light. Who is this light? And what difference does it make in our lives? Listen to find out!
In this devotional we pause to consider the woman Luke simply names as sinful. What role does she play in the sweeping narrative of Scripture? And what inspiration might she have for our own journey of faith?
In today's Devotional we consider the 6th chapter of Luke's Gospel; specifically focusing on Jesus's Sermon on the Pain; also called the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's Gospel. This is Jesus' central teaching; and it is also challenging. It calls us to be different. What are we to do with this text?
Reader: Kai Thurow
Meditation Music: Breath In by Yehezkel Raz
Devotional Music: The Hope Lounge by Dr. Paranoid
In today's devotion we pause to consider the continuation of Jesus' first sermon from the previous chapter. Here we have three brief stories, one with a leaper, one with a man paralyzed, and one with Levi the tax collector
In today's Devotional we hear Jesus' first sermon as he announces the inbreaking of the Jubilee year; heaven and earths new creation.
Reader: Kia Thurow
Meditation Music: Breath In by Yehezkel Raz
Opening Song: Peace on Earth by U2
Devotional Music: Season Finale by Beo'
Today we meet John, he's called many things but I call him a performance artist; inviting us to be players is a new theatrical production of the Exodus...familiar...yet different.
Join us on this second day in December as we read together the second chapter of Luke. Specifically we focus on the Christmas story. It's familiar; yet when we pause and consider it with fresh ears we learn that its not a silent, not a peaceful, and not as clean as we thought. Its chaotic...much like our own lives are. Yet even still Christ comes to us...how can we, like Mary, treasure the presence of Christ in the Chaos?
Meditation Music: Breath In by Yehezkel Raz
Devotional Music: Trying to be ok by Daniel Pratt
Today we read together the first Chapter of Luke. Our Focus passage is the Song of Mary, known as the Magnificat. Her song invites us to see the world with fresh eye.
Meditation Music: Breath In by Yehezkel Raz
Devotional Music: Walking in the Forests by Ben Winwood
Join us this season in quieting the loud clanging cymbals and noisy gongs of this world and instead fill the air with the Gospel of Hope, Joy, Love, and Peace that we have in Jesus Christ. We invite you to read a chapter of Luke each day during December. Then, on Christmas Eve, the 24th, You'll have heard the entire story of Jesus just in time to celebrate his birth! Please enjoy this introduction to the Gospel of Luke Featuring a Reading from Eugene Peterson's Introduction to the Gospel of Luke from the Message and musical arrangements of Joy to the World and Hark the Herald Angel Sing provided with permission by Benj Heard.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we dive into the final "Part 3" of our series on Star Wars. We sit down to finish out the original trilogy with our discussion of "Episode VI: The Return of the Jedi" and what it means for us to embrace a more mature, enduring hope even in the midst of everything that works to take our hope away.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we continue "Part 2" of our series on Star Wars and the Inspiration we draw from the original films on our faith life and practices. We discuss what challenges our sense of hope and how toxic fandom can impact science-fiction and the church.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, I sit down with my friends, Pastors Jonathan Conrad and Will Rose to talk about our favorite film franchise, Star Wars. In this, the first of a three-episode arch we'll draw parallels between Star Wars: A New Hope and living a life of faith today.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, please join us for our conversation with Dwayne Burks, Pastor and Founder of The Gateway Gaston. He has an inspiring story of Grace that saved his life and empowers his love of neighbor.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we speak with Kimberly Truesdell who is a fascinating person. She is involved in Youth Ministry, is a Triathlete, and has an inspiring story of weightlessness. Take some time and listen to her story!
Welcome Back! After a time away The Ground Up Faith Podcast is back with Season 2! We had a great season to start with and I'm really excited about what follows with season 2! Check it out!
If you have questions about the podcast reach out at JASchnibben@gmail.com and let's talk!
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we enter into "Part 3" of our series on Pastoral Burnout where we sit down with Bishop Tim Smith of the North Carolina Synod. He shares his own experiences with burnout as well as those he's developed as a Bishop. If you or someone you know is wrestling with burnout please talk to a trusted person. If you don't have a trusted person to talk with feel free to reach out to me at JASchnibben@gmail.com.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down and talk with Sarah Welch-Larson, Author of "Becoming Alien: The Beginning and End of Evil in Science Fiction's Most Idiosyncratic Film Franchise." We discuss the the intersection of Faith and Science Fiction, are there aliens and what it says about our faith, and the Alien movie Franchise!
Copies of her book can be purchase here: https://mzsworldstore.com/products/becoming-alien-the-beginning-and-end-of-evil-in-science-fictions-most-idiosyncratic-film-franchise-paperback-signed?_pos=1&_sid=230a7c116&_ss=r
Or wherever books are sold.
In this sermon we reflect on the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and what it has to say to us about noticing the presence of God in our lives.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we continue with "Part 2" of our Series on Pastoral Burnout. Today we sit down with Pastor Jay Gamelin who went through a season of burnout. He shares what helped him through and what is on the other side of burnout.
If you think you may be burned out make sure to talk with someone you trust, your Synod office or, if you have no one to talk to, feel free to reach out to me at jaschnibben@gmail.com.
In this sermon we reflect on Jesus' invitation to his disciples past and present to come away and rest and what it means for our stressed out, over worked, worn down world.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Laura Swanson; one of the pastors at St. Philip Lutheran Church in Roanoke Va. She and I both grew up in the same congregation, St. Luke in Florence SC. We sit down to talk about callings, what God is up to in the world and a whole lot more!
In this sermon we wrestle with the story of Amos. There was a dispute over the proper place to worship God; was it in the northern kingdom or the southern kingdom? In this context we consider the issues around disputes in the community of faith. How do we Christians fight? Not always well. The starting point for Christian discipleship and community is recognizing that we can be wrong.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we talk with Chris Voshall, Director of Golf Products for Mizuno Golf. We learn the remarkable story of the Mizuno JPX 900 Tour Golf Club and how it can serve as a model for innovation and growth for churches, non profits, and businesses. Oh, and we nerd out on Golf clubs as well!
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Naomi Sease Carriker. She's a pastor, fellow Podcaster over at What Would Jesus Drink?, and leads trips to the Holy Land. We'll be talking about the growing challenge of Clergy Burnout and how you can help. If you're a clergy person or church professional and are feeling burned out please reach out to your synod office, a trusted person, or if you feel you have no one else to reach out to touch base with me at jaschnibben@gmail.com
In this sermon we pause to consider the destruction of Jerusalem, the loss of Jairus' daughter, and the woman with hemorrhages. We consider how each of these events creates distance from memories and imperils the dreams of the future. Yet in all of this God is present bringing goodness from the ashes of our despair.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down with Star Wars Fan-natic, businesswoman, and tech guru Mary Smith. Mary owns For the Love of Technology in Mount Holly, NC. We also talk about Star Wars, because it is amazing! As well as the ever-evolving role of technology in our lives; how to balance it and use it safely and how technology can actually deepen our faith lives.
In this sermon, a follow up with the pervious Podcast episode, we wrestle with the troubles and the beauty of the book of Job. We are invited to expand our imagination beyond the confines of Fox News, MSNBC, or what ever else boxes us in to consider a more faithful life.
In this episode of Brewing Thoughts, we explore the grounding of our faith is found in the pages of Scripture, and yet so often serious wrestling with the text goes by the wayside for more expedient answers. In preparation for this weeks Hebrew text we'll spend a bit of time getting familiar with the book of Job and wrestling with both what is comforting and what is troubling with this text.
In this sermon we hear about the Parable of the Mustard Seed, why it's my Grandmother's least favorite passage of Scripture, and why her dislike helps us understand it, and our faith lives better.
In this brief episode we pause to consider the starting point of this Podcast, where we've been so far and what is just around the corner! Thanks for listening so far; I can't wait to share with you what's next!
If you'd like to learn about Podcasting from someone who's learning about Podcasting; say hi and get to know me better; request a topic; or are interested in being a guest reach out to me at JASchnibben@gmail.com
In this episode of Brewing Thoughts, Pastor Jonathan talks about nostalgic innovation; how to learn from the developments of the past to innovate for the future of the church.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down with Pastor Will Rose to learn about one of his ministry focuses, connecting Faith and Science Fiction. Your identity as a Christian and your appreciation of Science Fiction, or whatever your hobby may be, can coexist, and even make both stronger!
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, Pastor Matt Simpkins and I sit down to talk about reforming the church, the recent Gallup Poll on church membership, and why the pandemic may have helped us more than we thought.
In this episode of The Ground Up Faith Podcast, Emma Sellers and I sit down to discuss race and racism on the 20th anniversary of our graduation from High School. Emma works now as a advocate for diversity and equity inclusion and we'll hear her story and learn from her wisdom. This episode was recorded two months prior to it's air date of May 12th.
We talk about love, but Jesus talks about it in a concrete way. If it is concrete, then how do we experience it with our senses. This sermon will wrestle with that thought.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, my partner in ministry Kai Thurow and I sit down and reflect on our life in ministry, challenges, opportunities, and the recent Gallup Poll reporting that for the first time in the 80 year history (of keeping track) church membership has fallen below 50 percent. For more reading and access to the poll check this link https://news.gallup.com/poll/341963/church-membership-falls-below-majority-first-time.aspx
This sermon flows from the Good Shepherd Discourse of Jesus in John 10:11-18. It reflects on the central role of a shepherd to find good pasture for the sheep in their charge. Together we reflect on the pastures Jesus has nourished us with in the past even as we consider what new pastures we might be lead to.
In this episode of The Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Mindy Makant. Associate Professor of Religion at Lenoir Rhyne University and author of "Holy Mischief; In honor and celebration of Women in ministry" marking the 50th anniversary of the ordination of women in the Lutheran Church. Her book can be purchased here https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Mischief-Honor-Celebration-Ministry/dp/1532649223/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=holy+mischief+mindy+makant&qid=1618967345&sr=8-1
In this Sermon we reflect on the ever present role doubt plays in our navigating the changing times we encounter when following Jesus.
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we sit down with Ted Goins, Bee keeper, Pastor's kid, President of Lutheran Services of the Carolinas, and good neighbor to all. Learn more about his insights on living your Christian faith where you are everyday, leadership, and how we can all make an impact.
This sermon reflects on our practice of always referring to Thomas as one who doubts in the context of our own regular practice of dismissing one another with our words. It invites us to participate in the practice of Jesus of speaking peace into all of life's situations.
On Maundy Thursday we remember Jesus's washing his disciple's feet and instructing them to do likewise. With Lil Nas X's release of his Satan Shoes this week how might Christian's respond?
In this episode of the Ground Up Faith Podcast, we invite you to join in on my wide-ranging conversation with Bishop Timothy Smith about his life; what it means to be called; and what service to the church looks like including stories about facing off with James Worthy & Michael Jordan; smuggling money to bring down the Soviet Union; & and being the Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's North Carolina Synod; these are just some of the stories you'll hear in this episode.
This sermon, on Palm Sunday, reflects on the Triumphal Entry story from John 12. It invites us to wrestle with what our expectations are verses what God's reality is. In God's care for us, God meets us in our expectations and invites us to participate in the reality of life.
In this episode of Brewing Thoughts, we consider the role sleep plays in our lives from both a health perspective and a faith perspective. We consider current events like the time change and the shocking reports of working conditions at Goldman Sachs alongside the faith practice of sabbath rest and the work done by Dr. Matthew Walker and his book "Why We Sleep." I highly recommend you buy the book and read it!
Reflecting on Jeremiah 31:31-34 & John 12:20-33 this sermon uses Phyllis Tickle's Book "The Great Emergence: How Christianity is Changing and Why" as a source of inspiration. These texts are often Reformation texts. Tickle observes that every 500 years something significant happens in the church. 500 years ago was the 16th Century Reformations; we find ourselves due for another one. How can we understand the changing reality facing Christianity, and COVID-19, as yet one more evolution in our faith and practice of following Jesus? Listen to wrestle with that topic.
In this episode of Ground Up Faith Podcast, we welcome our first-ever guest, Beka Forst. She's a full-time Youth and Family Minister, and Seminary student who is preparing for Ordination as a Deacon in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). We sit down to chat about ministry today, what seminary is like, why deacons are an incredible gift to the church that everyone should know about, and more!
On the one year anniversary of our life with the COVID 19 crisis we reflect on how we measure a year. Inspired by the Tony award winning Broadway Rock Musical Rent's number "Seasons of Love," Nicodemus' late night conversation with Jesus, and Mother Teresa we consider how love may be the defining metric to use in measuring a year.
In this episode of Brewing Thoughts, we consider the power stories have to impact our lives while we hear the Story of Michael Scott Moore's two-year-eight-month captivity at the hands of Somali Pirates. Over the course of his captivity, he learned that forgiveness wasn't just something that would benefit his captors, but was also a life and death reality for him. His book on his experience is The Desert and the Sea.
This Sermon Reflects on John 2:13-22 - Jesus Cleansing the Temple. In comparison, Jesus's work is not dissimilar to the Herdman's participation in the Annual Christmas play in "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever." Today we are invited to follow the work of Jesus in doing the serious interior work of cleansing our own Temple of the Holy Spirit.
In this episode of Brewing Thoughts, we explore how the Hubble Space Telescope failure, Breast Cancer, Queen Esther, and J.R.R. Tolkien have to say about your everyday faith life.
A Sermon reflecting on what it means to listen to God. Beginning with selections from Psalm 22 & Mark 8 and 9 this sermon wrestles with God's invitation to listen to Jesus. Today's world is busy and hectic with many competing voices, loud cymbals, and noisy gongs. Yet through it all there is the voice of Jesus.
In this episode of Brewing Thoughts, we explore Andrew Yang's talk about Universal Basic Income as a way to invest in people so they can in turn invest in their communities. This inspired the idea of being Missional Entrepreneurs; a faith community that invests in people who in turn invest in community.
A Sermon entitled Big Yellow Taxi. Reflecting of Genesis 9:8-17 (God's covenant with Noah) & Mark 1:9-15 (Jesus' Baptism and testing in the wilderness). Further inspired by the Song, Big Yellow Taxi, as written by Joni Mitchell and preformed by Counting Crows. This sermon wrestles with how God's good creation often plays an important role in God's meeting us again and again.
A Sermon reflecting on 2 Kings 2:1-12 & Mark 9:2-9. In both texts there's some tension over where to stay. In this tension we'll wrestle with where we're called to stay in our life with Jesus.
A Sermon Reflecting on Jesus' work of Creation and healing and our call to respond creatively with our gifts.