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Thinking Fellows

1517 Podcastswww.1517.org
The Thinking Fellows is a 45-minute podcast about theology, philosophy, Christian history, and apologetics. It is hosted by Scott Keith, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman. The Thinking Fellows bring high-level subject matters to fun and insightful lay-level conversations each week.
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Episodes

The Church and The Culture War

What responsibilities do individual Christians and their churches possess to fight against an antagonistic culture? The Thinking Fellows attempt to distinguish between the vocational necessities of being a citizen and the function of the Church to proclaim the Gospel. The fellows conclude that life in this world has no easy answers but that keeping the proper work of the Church and the demands of Christian citizens distinct from one another. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube...

May 02, 202348 min

What is Woke?

The Thinking Fellows enter treacherous waters. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce look to define the word "woke" and observe how political ideology functions or substitutes religion. Adam gives a historical overview of the development and use of the term, and the other fellows offer commentary about engaging in a political world without compromising the central mission of the church to proclaim Christ crucified for the forgiveness of sin. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube...

Apr 21, 202346 min

If Christ Be Not Raised

The Thinking Fellows celebrate easter with a conversation about the resurrection of Jesus. The entire Christian faith rests on this one truth and promise that Christ has risen from and done so for you. The fellows read 1 Corinthians 15:12-19 and shared their confidence in the reality and accomplishments of Christ's resurrection. Show Notes: Support the Show 1517 Podcasts The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 on Youtube...

Apr 12, 202348 min

Christianity and Psychology

Are Christianity and psychology compatible? Caleb, Scott, and Bruce look at the relationship between the social sceinces and the Christian faith. The subject of mental health and care are important in today's soceity and culture but require careful navigation by Christians. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube The Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts...

Apr 02, 20231 hr 4 min

Is Atheism Foolish?

In the cultural debate over God's existence, should the burden of proof rest on atheism rather than theism? Are Christianity and its account of the world more reasonable than atheism? Caleb, Adam, and Bruce address these questions and more in this apologetics-focused episode of the Thinking Fellows. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube Return of the God Hypothesis Cosmic Chemistry: Do God and Science Mix...

Mar 24, 202359 min

Should Christians Engage With Philosophy?

Caleb, Adam, and Bruce revisit the relationship between faith and reason. This time they ask, is there a limit to Christian engagement in philosophy? They outline the distinction between theology and philosophy and explore the benefits of being educated and aware of philosophical thought and practice. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts Happy Hour Hymn Sing 1517 on Youtube...

Mar 17, 202352 min

What Does Athens Have To Do With Jerusalem?

Are theology and philosophy compatible? Caleb, Adam, and Bruce explore the relationship between faith and reason. They define the differences between theology and philosophy and attempt to outline the unique roles they serve. Philosophy is an essential discipline, but it cannot deliver faith and salvation. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube More From The Hosts Caleb Keith Adam Francsico Bruce Hillman...

Mar 10, 202348 min

In The World Not Of The World

The Thinking Fellows discuss the notion of worldliness. What does it mean to be worldly? Can a Christian participate in worldly things? Caleb Keith, Scott Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman address these questions and more in the latest episode. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts Preaching the Text See More from our Hosts: Caleb Keith Scott Keith Adam Francisco Bruce Hilman...

Feb 28, 202354 min

Aliens

Over the last several weeks, the news has been abuzz with UFOs. Incidents like these often result in speculation regarding the existence of aliens. While this speculation is not always meaningful, it has in the past been leveraged against Christians. Many materialists and pop scientists suggest that the Christian faith crumbles if aliens really exist. Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce discuss these ideas and concerns. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts Faith Off The Edge Adam Francisco...

Feb 21, 202350 min

Christ and Culture

How does the Christian faith interact with culture? Adam Francisco, Bruce Hillman, and John Hoyum discuss the role of the Christian faith in contrast and conjunction with society and culture. They cover a broad set of opinions and authors to give a picture of how vital this question has been and remains for western Christians. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts Christ in Culture Niebhur Preaching the Text with John Hoyum...

Feb 14, 202355 min

The Return of the King (Lord of the Ring's Trilogy)

Scott Keith, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, and Bruce Hilman discuss the final book in The Lord of the Rings series. They discuss temptation, darkness, and the relativity of interpreting Tolkien. They debate the more profound meaning and moral lessons that Tolkien leaves behind and rank Tolkien's work amongst other literary classics. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts Preaching the Text...

Feb 07, 20231 hr 4 min

The Two Towers (Lord of the Rings Trilogy)

The Two Towers (Lord of the Rings Trilogy) Scott Keith, Adam Francisco, Caleb Keith, and Bruce Hilman discuss the second book in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. The Two Towers opens to a broken fellowship set on two distinct but interwoven journeys against the Dark Lord Sauron. This fragmented journey cements that a new age is coming to Middle Earth, the Age of Men. How do Tolkien's characters deal with temptation and resist the power of darkness? Support the Show 1517 Podcasts...

Jan 29, 202345 min

Remembering Jim Nestingen

Caleb Keith and Scott Keith join Steven Paulson and Ken Jones to remember their mentor Jim Nestingen. Jim was a pastor and doctor of the church who taught many to proclaim and absolve in the name of Christ. 1517 has been deeply influenced by Jim, and this episode is meant to honor and remember that impact and support. We look forward to the resurrection, where we will be able to laugh with Jim once more. Support the Show Thinking Fellows Absolution episode More content from Jim Free and Løked Up...

Jan 19, 202359 min

New Year, New You

The Thinking Fellows discuss memorable parts of 2022 and look forward to 2023. Scott hosts this episode and introduces the newest "Scholar in Residence" at 1517, Bruce Hilman. Bruce will continue to join the fellows for regular episodes in 2022. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts 1517 Homepage Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts...

Jan 12, 20231 hr 6 min

The Fellowship of the Ring

The Thinking Fellows discuss J.R.R. Tolkien's first book in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. They identify differences in style and scope from the Hobbit while discussing the apparent theological and philosophical themes. How does this pilgrim tail contribute to the literature, and is it uniquely Christian? Support the Show 1517 Podcasts

Jan 02, 202350 min

Merry Christmas 2022

The Thinking Fellows wish their listeners a Merry Christmas. They discuss the son "Mary Did You Know" and a notable trend of churches closing for Christmas.

Dec 25, 202249 min

The Hobbit

The Thinking Fellows discuss J.R.R. Tolkiens The Hobbit. The Fellows outline what they liked and what they found challanging about reading and analyzing Tolkiens first fantasy novel. The Hobbit is a whimsical journey that sparked the reveival of the fantasy genre and echos of Tolkiens Roman Catcholic faith. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts The Hobbit...

Dec 17, 20221 hr 5 min

Reading Tolkien

The Thinking Fellows prepare to read the fictional works of J.R.R. Tolkien. Caleb and Adam discuss what makes Tolkien unique and some of the challenges of analyzing his work. In particular, they focus on Tolkien as a devout Roman Catholic. Tolkien's Roman practice of the Christian faith colors his work in a way that is different from protestant authors like C.S. Lewis and helps explain why his work is not always clearly "Christian" to outside readers. Support the Show 1517 Podcasts Preaching the...

Dec 11, 202243 min

How the Church Reads the Bible

Caleb, Scott, and Adam are joined by John Hoyum to talk about how churches across the world read and preach the Bible. John is a Junior Fellow at 1517 and the co-host of the new podcast Preaching the Text with Steve Paulson. The discussion revolves around the lectionary, which is assigned Bible readings that churches use during worship. How do these readings get assigned? What benefits and drawbacks are there to using a lectionary rather than reading the Bible book-by-book? Support the Show on G...

Nov 29, 202247 min

A Time to Be Thankful

The Thinking Fellows discuss and describe the things they are thankful for this year. While somewhat cliche, the fellows all explain how they have been blessed by their families and the work of 1517. Scott gives a helpful reminder that even though social times are changing and challenging, life is still very comfortable and good for many people, and we have many reasons to give thanks for God's blessings. Support 1517 1517 Podcasts Giving Tuesday is next week. All donations made on Giving Tuesda...

Nov 23, 202240 min

Trust Not In Princes

The Thinking Fellows comment on Psalm 146. "Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish." How do this and other passages affect how Christians view their political actions and vocations? Can Christians be active in the civil realm without violating this precept? Support the Show 1517 Podcasts HWSS Bentonville...

Nov 15, 202242 min

Literary Apologetics (Why You Should Study Them)

The Fellows discuss the purpose and place of literary apologetics. They look at the role of narrative and imagination when doing theology and how it can help address those in need of Christ. They discuss the significance of good literature written by Christians like C.S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkein and how they can remind theologians that theology is not just categories but needs a narrative. Here We Still Stand 2023 Is SOLD OUT. Tickets for the HWSS regional event are still available. Support th...

Nov 11, 202243 min

Why You Should Celebrate the Reformation

In this episode, The Thinking Fellows address the idea that the Reformation is not worthy of celebration but is lamentable. The Fellows contend that the Reformation ought to be celebrated for its recovery of the Gospel. Likewise, history tells us that Luther alone did not divide the catholic church but that separation and division have always been in the history of the Church on earth. Support the Show Scott's Reformation Day Blog 1517 Podcasts The Unintended Reformation...

Nov 01, 202247 min

Justification By The Word

The Thinking Fellows are joined by Dr. Jack Kilcrease to discuss the centrality and importance of the doctrine of the Word. Jack is the author of Justification by the Word , a new book published through Lexham Academic. In the book, Jack outlines how God uses his Word not just to describe sin and righteousness but uses the Word to make sinners righteous in Christ. Support the Show Justification by the Word on Amazon Justification by the Word through Lexham...

Oct 26, 202247 min

Consciences Captive to the Word of God (HWSS Live 2022)

The Thinking Fellows recorded a live show in Sandiego, California. For this episode, they ask, "What did Luther mean when he said his conscience was captive to the Word of God?" The Fellows each give an answer and explain the significance of Luther's stand at Worms. Support the Show HWSS 2023 HWSS Arkansas 2023...

Oct 19, 202243 min

Postmodernism (Why You Should Know the Intellectual Origins)

The Thinking Fellows have Bruce Hillman on the show to discuss postmodernism. Bruce has extensively studied the development of postmodernism and helps give a history of its intellectual origins. The fellows also discuss the impact and fallout that postmodernism has had on our culture and the church. Support the Show Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts 1517 Podcasts...

Oct 12, 20221 hr 1 min

Why You Should Be Aware of Cultural Nihilism

In this episode, the Thinking Fellows discuss what it means and looks like to live in a culture of nihilists. The fellows propose that postmodernism and atheistic materialism have entered the cultural conscience and are displayed and celebrated in media and art. Support the Show Subscribe on Apple Podcasts What to Expect When No One’s Expecting Conservatism a Rediscovery...

Oct 08, 202240 min

Rings of Power (Why You Should or Shouldn't Watch the Show)

Scott and Caleb are joined by Joshua Keith to talk about the new Lord of the Rings T.V. series. Is the series a faithful adaptation of Tolkien's work? How has Lord of the Rings influenced the fantasy for movies and television? If you are a fan of Tolkien's literary work, should you watch the show? Support the Show Rings of Power The Simarilion...

Oct 03, 202245 min

Why You Should Be Aware Of Secularism

Christians today need to realize that they live in a secular age. How do we navigate a world that goes on its merry way without referencing or acknowledging God? How does secularism different from materialism? Should Christians combat secularism or merely accept it? Support the Show Our Secular Age The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self...

Sep 22, 202240 min

Why You Should Care About the World Wars

Caleb, Scott, and Adam discuss World War I and World War II. How did these wars shape the society and culture we live in today? What philosophical and theological ideas led to the wars, and what happened to philosophy and theology after them? Ultimately, these events affected every facet of life, and the better we understand them, the better we can grasp the world we live in now. Support the Show Thinking Fellows on Apple Podcasts...

Sep 17, 202247 min
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