Best Ulc Podcasts (2025)

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The Wittenberg Project: Mission, Collaboration, and Growth in the LCMS 1:04:49

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about 5 hours ago1:04:49

1:04:49

Tim and Jack welcome Tyree Toney (aka Lex Lutheran) to discuss his transition from a Baptist background to confessional Lutheranism, the Wittenberg Project, and opportunities for growth and enhanced mission within the LCMS. • Lex shares his journey from a Baptist upbringing through Catholicism and Methodism before finding his home in confessional L…

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4.17.25 Pride 31:45

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about 17 hours ago31:45

31:45

Pastor Marcus Lane wrapped up our series on the "Seven Deadly Sins" with a Maundy Thursday message on "Pride". Pastor Marcus highlighted the humility of Jesus and how humility suffers, gives, and serves.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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From Liturgical Purist to Pragmatist: Rethinking Lutheran Worship 50:49

3 days ago50:49

50:49

Dr. Kent Burreson shares his 25-year journey teaching Lutheran worship, exploring how liturgy should serve the gospel rather than becoming an end in itself. He offers wisdom on balancing historical practices with contextual relevance while keeping Christ at the center of worship. • Journey from liturgical purist to liturgical pragmatist • How polit…

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4.13.25 Envy 34:23

5 days ago34:23

34:23

Envy is discontentment with what one has and wanting what someone else has. Envy is enslaving and it disintegrates relationships. But the good news of Palm Sunday is our liberating King Jesus came to set us free from envy’s grasp.By Pastor Gabe Kasper

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Rethinking LCMS Conflict: Lessons from Seminex to Today 50:10

7 days ago50:10

50:10

Tim and Jack welcome back Nick Graff, a former Marine Corps sergeant and special forces member, to discuss the aftermath of Seminex and its implications for the modern Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. • The aftermath of Seminex resulted in a more confessionally unified LCMS while also creating a spirit of disunity • Contemporary debates about worshi…

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The State of the LCMS: Insights from the New Pew Research Study 1:04:57

10 days ago1:04:57

1:04:57

The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod faces significant challenges based on the latest Pew Research Center findings, with declining prayer frequency, weekly worship attendance, and scripture reading. Tim and Jack offer candid insights into the demographic shifts and spiritual trends affecting LCMS congregations nationwide. • LCMS demographics show an …

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4.6.25 Sloth 27:06

12 days ago27:06

27:06

Pastor Marcus Lane continues our series on the "Seven Deadly Sins" with a message on "Sloth". Pastor Marcus points us to three things for how we might understand and avoid sloth: watch yourself, stay awake, and hear Jesus.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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The Center for Missional and Pastoral Leadership: A Big Announcement 47:51

14 days ago47:51

47:51

The rapid decline in active LCMS pastors—down 10% in just two years—underscores the need for new approaches to theological education that remain confessionally Lutheran while meeting modern ministry contexts. Enter the Center for Missional and Pastoral Leadership: Biblical. Reformational. Missional. Affordable. Global. Visit https://cst.ilt.edu/cmp…

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The Lost Art of Listening with Pastor Brian Davies 50:52

17 days ago50:52

50:52

Listening may be the most powerful yet underutilized tool in our spiritual arsenal, particularly in a culture that prizes quick responses and winning arguments over deep understanding. Grab Pastor Brian Davies' new book! • Pastor Brian Davies introduces his book "Captivating Conversations: How Christians Can Reclaim the Lost Art of Listening" • Jes…

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3.30.25 Gluttony 30:02

19 days ago30:02

30:02

All of life is meant to be lived before God. We are called to follow Jesus in every facet of our lives, this includes our relationship to food and drink. As we continue our series on the Seven Deadly Sins, Pastor Gabe teaches on how we can resist the vice of gluttony, as we look to the God who feeds us in Christ.…

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Rethinking Ministry: The Power of Co-Vocational Leadership in Church Growth 58:19

21 days ago58:19

58:19

Pastor Robert Balduc shares his journey from corporate life at Ford to planting St. Peter Lutheran Church and becoming an intentionally co-vocational pastor maintaining his role at Volkswagen alongside ministry leadership. • Coming from a corporate background before entering seminary and founding St. Peter in 2006 • Transitioning to a co-vocational…

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3.23.25 Lust 29:13

26 days ago29:13

29:13

Pastor Marcus continues our sermon series "Seven Deadly Sins" with a message on "Lust". In his sermon, Pastor Marcus talks about the beginning of lust, the end of lust, and the solution to lust.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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The Biblical Case for Raising Up Leaders in Your Church 39:31

28 days ago39:31

39:31

Tim and Jack explore why developing church leaders locally is both biblical and essential for church health and growth. • The urgent need for leadership in the post-Christian, secular American context • Sustainable leadership training that is robust, affordable, and accessible • Cultural relevance – locally developed leaders understand their commun…

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The Value of Walking Together: How Church Plans Protect Workers 41:37

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about a year ago41:37

41:37

Jim Sanft, President and CEO of Concordia Plan Services, breaks down the differences between single-employer church plans and multiple-employer denominational benefit programs like CPS. He offers crucial insights on how CPS's governance structure provides strong protection for LCMS workers' retirement security. • Addressing a recent Wall Street Jou…

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3.16.25 Greed 32:39

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about a year ago32:39

32:39

As we continue our series on the Seven Deadly Sins, today Pastor Gabe teaches on greed. Greed is one of the most talked about vices in the bible, it can cause havoc in our lives, but the good news of the gospel is we can be set free from greed as we trust in the God who provides all things for us in Jesus Christ.…

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How the LCMS Can Live in Concordia (Harmony) 57:49

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about a year ago57:49

57:49

Pastor Andrew Jones shares insights on unity within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, exploring how harmony functions differently from uniformity and creates a more beautiful expression of Christ's body. • Concordia (harmony) creates beauty through diversity of notes working together rather than identical sounds • Musical metaphors illuminate chu…

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Holy FOMO: How to Build an Invitation Culture 32:42

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about a year ago32:42

32:42

We explore the theological and practical foundations for creating an invitation culture in your church and why it's essential for long-term growth and sustainability. • Churches often resist growth because people fear change and want to maintain personal relationships with everyone • The church uniquely transforms people from consumers to contribut…

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3.9.25 Wrath 34:15

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about a year ago34:15

34:15

Pastor Marcus continues our sermon series on the "Seven Deadly Sins" focusing on wrath. In this sermon, Pastor Marcus has us consider the distortion and problem of wrath, and then the solution to wrath.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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Feel Like Your Church is Invisible? Church Marketing Conversation from an LCMS perspective 36:49

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about a year ago36:49

36:49

Discover actionable church marketing strategies to boost attendance and connect with your community. This episode emphasizes the importance of authentic outreach in today's changing landscape. • Discusses the significance of church marketing for growth • Shares three key outreach strategies: announcements, invitations, and hospitality • Details the…

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3.5.25 Sin is Deadly 26:49

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about a year ago26:49

26:49

As we begin our Lenten journey through the 7 Deadly Sins, Pastor Gabe kicks us off this Ash Wednesday by reflecting on Romans 6, where we see that sin is slavery, sin is death, but the great hope we have is the grace given to us by our Savior Jesus Christ.By Pastor Gabe Kasper

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3.2.25 Hope over Despair 32:55

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about a year ago32:55

32:55

As we close out our series on 1 Corinthians, Pastor Gabe preaches on 1 Corinthians 15 and the great hope we have in Christ’s resurrection.By Pastor Gabe Kasper

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Does Branding Matter for Churches? With James Saleska 34:48

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about a year ago34:48

34:48

The episode delves into the significance of branding in church ministry, emphasizing how identity and storytelling play crucial roles in reaching new audiences. Church leaders are encouraged to rethink their approach to branding, ensuring alignment between mission statements and the experiences they provide. • Emphasis on the holistic nature of bra…

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Journey of Faith: Reverend Dr. Dale Meyer on Ministry, Culture, and Personal Growth 54:26

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about a year ago54:26

54:26

Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer shares his profound insights on faith, ministry, and the church's evolving role in a rapidly changing world. He emphasizes the significance of building genuine relationships within local congregations and encourages leaders to embrace adaptability while reflecting on their vocation and the importance of community outreach. • Hig…

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2.23.25 Love over Everything 28:55

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about a year ago28:55

28:55

Pastor Marcus continues or sermon series on 1 Corinthians with a message titled 'Love over Everything'. In this sermon, Pastor Marcus points out how Paul highlights the power, the burden, and the perfection of love.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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How the Light Shines Through with Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies | Part 2 59:04

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about a year ago59:04

59:04

The episode focuses on the interconnected themes of identity and story, emphasizing that understanding one's identity as a gift can alleviate the burdens of self-creation. Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies leads the discussion on navigating authenticity in a complex society, the role of suffering, and the impact of essentialism in relationships. • Exploring the…

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2.16.25 Service over Status 31:54

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about a year ago31:54

31:54

As Paul continues his letter to the Corinthians, he teaches them about the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit speaks faith into us, gives us gifts, and empowers us to serve. The work of the Spirit is never about status, it is always about service.By Pastor Gabe Kasper

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How the Light Shines Through with Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies | Part 1 53:05

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about a year ago53:05

53:05

See Graphic: Believers are called to resist the discouraging narratives of darkness and hopelessness by embodying empathy, vulnerability, and resilience. Through creative community engagement, Dr. Chad Lakies inspires a refreshed understanding of church as a beacon of light, extending beyond its walls into the world. • Importance of resilience in t…

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Discussing Church Growth - From a Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Perspective 25:11

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about a year ago25:11

25:11

This episode dives deep into the importance of multiplication over mere growth in church leadership. We explore humility as a foundational quality for leaders, the biblical basis for raising up other leaders, and practical steps for cultivating a culture of discipleship. • Emphasizing humility as a key trait for effective leaders • Understanding mu…

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2.9.25 Worship over Idolatry 33:01

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about a year ago33:01

33:01

Pastor Marcus Lane continues our sermon series "The Cross over Compromise" with a message titled "Worship over Idolatry". Pastor Marcus outlines how Paul tells us that we need to remember what we've encountered, remember what we've received, and remember what we've loved.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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Hope in the LCMS: Celebrating the Good - Lutheran Hour Ministries Speaker Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler 51:34

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about a year ago51:34

51:34

Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler shares his hopeful perspective on the LCMS, emphasizing the importance of cultural hospitality and unity through shared goals. The conversation explores the mission of Lutheran Hour Ministries, the importance of dialogue in faith, and the future vision for a welcoming church community. • Discussing hope and innovation withi…

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2.2.25 Chastity over Promiscuity 32:01

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about a year ago32:01

32:01

Pastor Gabe continues our series on the book of 1 Corinthians by looking at 1 Corinthians 6 and pursuing chastity over promiscuity. Following Jesus with our sexuality is a challenge in this cultural moment, but because of his love poured out for us on the cross we can find our longings fulfilled in him.…

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Does the LCMS Even Need New Churches?! | Pastor Ted Doering 1:03:56

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about a year ago1:03:56

1:03:56

Pastor Ted Doering discusses the critical need for church planting and revitalization within growing communities in this episode. He emphasizes the importance of hospitality, adaptability through challenging times, and unity within the LCMS, offering insights and encouragement for listeners engaged in church leadership and discipleship. • Exploring…

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Did Jesus Really Say That!? | Rev. Dr. Chris Kennedy 44:27

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about a year ago44:27

44:27

Rev. Dr. Chris Kennedy joins us for an impactful discussion on the challenges and joys of pastoral ministry, exploring difficult sayings of Jesus and their relevance in today's church. We reflect on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of clear communication in ministering to others. • Reflecting on the joys of pastoral work, especially …

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1.26.25 Humility over Pride 32:32

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about a year ago32:32

32:32

Pastor Marcus Lane continues our sermon series "The Cross over Compromise" with a message titled "Humility over Pride". Pastor Marcus outlines how we are called to be humble in judgement, humble in the Word, and humble in suffering.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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Video Preaching in the LCMS...Yea or Nay?? | Aaron Engelman 43:45

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about a year ago43:45

43:45

Aaron Engelman shares his journey of discovering meaningful roles within the church beyond traditional pastoral work, emphasizing the importance of technology and innovation in ministry. The conversation explores the changing landscape of church work, where professionals can leverage their skills to serve the gospel effectively while fostering conn…

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Changing the Culture of LCMS Conventions with Rev. Dr. David Maier 58:54

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about a year ago58:54

58:54

This episode highlights the central theme of transforming the church’s approach to mission work by prioritizing outreach and collaboration. Dr. David Maier discusses the rebranding of the Mission Partners Platform into ‘The Center’ and focuses on unity, humility, and effective community engagement within church leadership. • Importance of making Je…

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1.19.25 Unity over Division 29:18

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about a year ago29:18

29:18

Pastor Gabe continues our series on the book of 1 Corinthians. In this text, St. Paul calls us to not be divided by spiritual immaturity or social status, but instead be united by the sure foundation of Jesus Christ.By Pastor Gabe Kasper

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Our Current Frustrations with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod 23:16

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about a year ago23:16

23:16

https://www.uniteleadership.org/post/from-power-to-invitation-easing-frustration-and-building-trust-within-the-lcms In this conversation, Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg discuss the impact of culture on the local church, focusing on leadership styles, the importance of values and mission, and the frustrations within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod…

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Faith, Sacrifice, and the Future of the LCMS with Pastor Jeff Cloeter 50:31

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about a year ago50:31

50:31

https://lovedsent.org/ What happens when the calling of faith meets the complexities of modern life? Pastor Jeff Cloeter joins us for a heartfelt discussion about the joys and trials faced by pastors today. From extraordinary stories of faith, to the core mission of transforming hearts and spreading God's love, we explore the evolving landscape of …

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1.12.25 The Cross over Wisdom 35:05

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about a year ago35:05

35:05

Pastor Marcus Lane kicks off our new sermon series "The Cross over Compromise: A Series on 1 Corinthians" with a message titled "The Cross over Wisdom". In this message, Pastor Marcus highlights how the cross is foolish, the cross is humbling, and the cross is wisdom.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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We're Jesus People First - Gospel Centered Leadership with Pastor Tom Pfotenhauer 52:00

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about a year ago52:00

52:00

The episode revolves around the themes of identity, community, and the joy of Jesus as central aspects of faith. Pastor Tom Pfotenhauer shares his extensive Lutheran heritage and emphasizes how belonging can empower congregants during struggles, illuminating the significance of hospitality and strong community ties in ministry. • Discusses the sign…

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12.29.24 Glory Foretold 27:50

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about a year ago27:50

27:50

For the first Sunday of Christmas Pastor Gabe takes us through the announcement of the birth of Christ to the shepherds and reminds us that the gospel is still good news for all people, today, as we look to the sign of the cross.By Pastor Gabe Kasper

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Managing Change within a Long-Established Community: Pastor Tim Niekerk's Journey at Salem Lutheran Church 53:51

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about a year ago53:51

53:51

The journey of church leadership can be filled with challenges, as Tim Niekerk shares his experiences navigating change, trust, and moral crises at Salem Lutheran Church. His story illustrates the importance of communication and understanding in fostering a healthy church community while also addressing the unique complexities of leading a long-sta…

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1.5.25 Peace Foretold 33:03

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about a year ago33:03

33:03

Pastor Marcus Lane concludes our sermon series Kairos: Christmas According to Luke with a message titled “Peace Foretold”. In this message, Pastor Marcus walks us through the stories of Jesus and Mary, Simeon, and Anna.By Pastor Marcus Lane

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The Challenge of Diversity in the LCMS with Pastor Gregory Manning 50:31

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about a year ago50:31

50:31

This podcast episode explores the transformative journey of Broadmoor Community Church under Rev. Gregory Manning, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and community engagement in urban ministries. Listeners gain insight into the challenges and strategies of creating a culturally relevant church that serves a diverse congregation, particularly…

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From Doctrine to Outreach in Lutheran Thought with Rev. Dr. John Pless 47:14

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about a year ago47:14

47:14

Lutheranism’s struggle between mission and doctrine finds renewed clarity in this episode as Dr. John Pless offers insights from his unique journey and extensive theological experience. The conversation highlights how confessional integrity lays the groundwork for effective mission work, calling for unity and collaboration among church members to a…

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Beyond the Breakwater: Pastor Ed Doerner's Innovative Approach to Church Ministry 1:03:02

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about a year ago1:03:02

1:03:02

Lead Time listeners, Tim Ahlman here! We love bringing you content to grow as leaders in your ministry and beyond, but we want to make sure we’re hitting the mark. Can you help us out by filling out a quick 5-question survey? It’ll take less than a minute and help us know what you like about the podcast, what topics you want more of, and even which…

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12.24.24 Presence Foretold 24:17

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about a year ago24:17

24:17

Pastor Marcus Lane continues our sermon series Kairos: Christmas According to Luke with a Christmas Eve message titled “Presence Foretold”. In this message, Pastor Marcus posits that the story is unexpected, but what if it's true?By Pastor Marcus Lane

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Balancing Tradition and Innovation: Pastor Zach Zehnder's Journey 53:47

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about a year ago53:47

53:47

Lead Time listeners, Tim Ahlman here! We love bringing you content to grow as leaders in your ministry and beyond, but we want to make sure we’re hitting the mark. Can you help us out by filling out a quick 5-question survey? It’ll take less than a minute and help us know what you like about the podcast, what topics you want more of, and even which…

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12.22.24 Redemption Foretold 33:51

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about a year ago33:51

33:51

The circumcision of John the Baptist is probably not the first story that comes to mind when people think of Christmas. And yet, through this story we are invited to see the continued relevance of the gospel in our lives.By Pastor Gabe Kasper

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