Issues, Etc.

Pr. Jonathan Conner of Zion Lutheran-Manning, IA Pastor Conner’s BlogThe post Kids Have Questions, Part 49 – Pr. Jonathan Conner, 11/13/25 (3173) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Joy Pullmann, Executive editor at The Federalist and author, shares insights on preparing for the holiday season with a focus on spiritual and practical aspects. She emphasizes the importance of prayer and a nurturing mindset for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Joy offers tips on food prep, like menu planning and freezing meals to ease stress. She discusses gradual decorating strategies and advocates for year-round gift shopping to minimize last-minute chaos. Additionally, she highlights the significance of Advent traditions and staying connected to church life during the season.

Terry Mattingly of Rational Sheep Rational Sheep Pop Goes Religion: Faith in Popular Culture GetReligion.orgThe post Media Coverage of the Fall Assembly of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops – Terry Mattingly, 11/13/25 (3171) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Dr. Andrea Gurney, a licensed clinical psychologist and Westmont College professor, sheds light on the growing cynicism about marriage among youth due to factors like poor role models and hookup culture. She discusses rising loneliness, particularly in Gen Z, and how social media impacts in-person relationships. Gurney explains the need for her Marriage 101 course, emphasizing the importance of historical context and relational self-awareness. The course addresses communication, gender roles, and promotes healthy sexuality, garnering significant student interest.

Pr. Dan Voth, a pastor and author from Emanuel Lutheran Church, dives deep into the Great Commission in this engaging discussion. He explores the common misinterpretations that turn it into a guilt trip, emphasizing its focus on Christ's gifts of forgiveness, baptism, and teaching. Voth highlights the significance of the mountain setting and the true meaning of Jesus' command to 'go'—a call for everyday witness rather than an imperative. He also connects Christ's real presence in Holy Communion to the promise of 'I am with you,' enriching our understanding of the Commission's fulfillment in the church.

Eric Johnson, a research associate with Mormonism Research Ministry and author of "Introducing Christianity to Mormons," shares insights on connecting biblical Christianity with members of the LDS Church. He discusses the complexities of defining who is a Christian, the emotional nature of Mormon testimony, and the significant role of Joseph Smith. Johnson also explores why people leave Mormonism, the fundamental differences in the concept of God and Jesus between the two faiths, and the barriers to presenting the Gospel effectively to Mormons.

Dr. Carl Trueman, a professor at Grove City College and an expert on theology and critical theory, dives deep into the shift of critical theory from left to right. He explores its origins in the Frankfurt School and critiques its adoption by right-wing figures like Nick Fuentes. Trueman discusses the implications of the 'woke right' and analyzes Tucker Carlson's controversial interview with Fuentes, highlighting the danger of unchallenged rhetoric. He emphasizes the need for a return to affirming shared human nature in the face of anti-human worldviews.

Tim Goeglein, Vice President at Focus on the Family and author, dives into the significance of family meals. He shares heartfelt memories of dinners shaping his upbringing and the crucial conversations that took place. Highlighting research, he emphasizes how regular family dinners lead to better outcomes for youth. Goeglein critiques the modern trend of replacing meals with screens and echoes Reagan's thoughts on the power of dinner table discussions, urging families to prioritize this lost practice for character building.

The hosts dive into the evolving landscape of generational politics and the implications for gender roles. They tackle listener criticisms surrounding Lutheran teachings and delve into the theological debate over once-saved-always-saved. Linked to this discussion, they also share positive listener feedback on their series about paths to Lutheranism. Additionally, a compelling question emerges regarding the age of the Earth, with a thoughtful exploration of Genesis and creation. Upcoming guests promise to bring fresh insights into family dynamics and critical theory.

Dr. John Bombaro, Senior Pastor at St. James Lutheran Church, discusses profound themes for the 22nd Sunday after Trinity. He delves into eschatological themes and the depths of God’s forgiveness, contrasting it with human tendencies. The conversation includes insights from Psalm 116 and Micah 6, exploring God’s requirements for justice and humility. Bombaro also reflects on the significance of thanksgiving in Philippians and the boundless nature of Christ’s forgiveness as seen in Matthew. The discussion emphasizes redemption, Eucharistic unity, and a call to repentance.