Issues, Etc.

Dr. Martin Noland is the Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in San Mateo, California, and a former director at the Concordia Historical Institute. In this discussion, he delves into the evolution of worship practices in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, highlighting the historical divides and theological foundations. The conversation also addresses the importance of training for pastors and musicians, critiques modern worship music trends, and emphasizes the essence of good liturgical practices rooted in Scripture and community engagement.

Dr. Martin Noland, Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church and former director of the Concordia Historical Institute, dives deep into worship practices within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. He discusses the tension between scriptural adherence and personal interpretation, the influence of contemporary trends on traditional practices, and the importance of maintaining Lutheran identity. Noland emphasizes the blend of tradition and innovation in worship and the critical role of music while cautioning against deviations from doctrinal standards. His insights illuminate the ongoing dialogue about faith and community.

Dr. Michael New of the Charlotte Lozier Institute Michael New’s Articles at National Review The Charlotte Lozier Institute The post Overseas Abortion Data – Dr. Michael New, 7/24/25 (2052) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Pr. Ben Ball of St. Paul Lutheran-Hamel, IL The post Looking Forward to Sunday Morning (One Year Lectionary): Sixth Sunday after Trinity – Pr. Ben Ball, 7/24/25 (2051) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Dr. Jordan Cooper, Executive Director of Just and Sinner and a professor of Systematic Theology, sheds light on Martin Luther's legacy. He debunks myths about Luther removing books from the Bible and encourages an exploration of the biblical canon through its historical context. The discussion emphasizes Luther's desire to reform from within, not start a new church. Cooper also critiques the fragmentation of modern Protestantism, advocating for a return to doctrinal truth over personal preference.

Dr. Jon Vieker, an Associate Professor of Practical Theology and Dean of the Chapel at Concordia Seminary, dives into the profound elements of the Lord’s Supper. He discusses the transformative significance of bread and wine, emphasizing Christ's words and Luther's insights on grace. Vieker explains the real presence of Jesus' body and blood during the sacrament, linking it to historical theology and modern practices. He encourages deeper exploration of early church teachings, reaffirming the Lord’s Supper as a vital source of spiritual nourishment and forgiveness.

Terry Mattingly of Rational Sheep Rational Sheep Pop Goes Religion: Faith in Popular Culture GetReligion.org The post Media Coverage of Pro-Golfer Scottie Scheffler’s Recent Comments on Faith and Family – Terry Mattingly, 7/23/25 (2031) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Dr. John Bombaro of St. James Lutheran-Lafayette, IN What Christ Gave Up for Us The post The Way of the Cross – Dr. John Bombaro, 7/22/25 (2033) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Joshua Pauling, a classical educator and vicar, dives into the troubling history of social Darwinism and scientific racism. He connects the dots between Darwin's theories and the rise of racial hierarchies, explaining how pseudoscience shaped these harmful ideologies. Pauling highlights the dangerous legacy of eugenics and the grotesque public displays of humans meant to propagate superiority. He calls for Christians to reflect on early church teachings to foster unity and understand God's mission across diverse communities.

Join Bryan Wolfmueller, Pastor of St. Paul Lutheran in Austin, as he explores the complex intertwining of conspiracy theories and Christian faith. He discusses how modern distrust in authority shapes community beliefs and the psychological draw of 'secret knowledge.' Wolfmueller warns against conspiracy theories acting as contemporary idolatry, pulling believers away from Christ. Delving into the dangers posed by ideas like flat Earth theories, he emphasizes the necessity of grounding faith in Scripture amid the noise of misinformation.