Shows
Cross CheckingDiscipleship Season PremierJoin hosts Josh and Ben as they kick off Season Nine of their podcast, diving into the theme of discipleship. In this episode, they share personal stories and insights on how discipleship has shaped their lives, from family influences to academic pursuits. With a blend of humor and sincerity, they explore the importance of having a strong foundation in faith and the role of community in spiritual growth. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the show, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be a disciple in today's world.
2026-01-2637 min2025-12-1534 minCross CheckingExhibition: ChristmasBen and Josh talk about Christmas (Eve and Day). What does it mean? Is it a co-opted pagan holiday? Should you go to church on Christmas Day?The answers to these questions and more, in this episode of Cross Checking!
2025-12-0837 minCross CheckingExhibition: William's FavoritesIn this special episode of Cross-Checking, hosts Josh and Ben are joined by their youngest guest ever, William Davis, for a lively discussion on faith and scripture. The trio explores key Bible verses that resonate with William, diving into topics like the Great Commission, the essence of faith, and the profound message of John 3:16. Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends theological depth with lighthearted banter.
2025-11-1043 minCross CheckingSolo Deo GloriaIn the season finale of Cross-Checking, Ben and Josh explore the theme of "To God Alone Be the Glory," diving into how this principle shapes Lutheran identity and practice. They discuss the challenges of avoiding self-glorification in faith communities and the importance of redirecting praise to God. With humor and insight, they reflect on the balance between striving for excellence and maintaining humility. Join them for a thoughtful conclusion to season eight, filled with engaging discussions and a call to serve with integrity and purpose.
2025-10-2135 minCross CheckingService OrientedJoin Ben and Josh as they delve into the essence of service within the Christian community. From exploring the parable of the Good Samaritan to discussing the importance of local service, they offer insights into how serving others can be both a personal and communal act of faith. Whether you're a seasoned churchgoer or new to the conversation, this episode invites you to reflect on who your neighbor is and how you can make a meaningful impact in your community.
2025-10-1534 minCross CheckingStubborn as DonkeysIn this episode of "Cross Checking," Josh and Ben delve into the theme of stubbornness within Lutheran identity. They explore the historical and theological roots of this trait, discussing its benefits and potential pitfalls. Through engaging anecdotes and thoughtful dialogue, they examine how being steadfast can be both a strength and a challenge in faith and community life.
2025-09-2237 minCross CheckingWorshipfulJoin hosts Josh and Ben as they explore the central role of worship in Lutheran identity. Delve into discussions about the significance of corporate worship, the balance between tradition and contemporary practices, and how everyday actions can reflect a worshipful life. They challenge listeners to consider what truly centers their lives and how worship can be a transformative part of their faith journey.
2025-09-1538 minCross CheckingConfessionalIn this episode Josh and Ben dive into the heart of Lutheran identity, exploring the significance of confessional theology and its impact on modern faith practices.
2025-09-0841 minCross CheckingPoliticsIn this episode of Cross Checking, Ben and Josh dive into the complex relationship between politics and the church. They explore how Lutheran identity intersects with political engagement, discussing the characteristically nuanced positions Lutherans often take. With humor and insight, they challenge listeners to consider whether their faith informs their politics or vice versa, emphasizing the importance of putting faith first. Join them for a thoughtful conversation that navigates the middle ground in today's polarized political landscape.
2025-09-0140 minCross CheckingBeardsIn this episode of "Cross-checking," Ben and Josh dive into the world of facial hair and its surprising connections to church leadership and identity. From playoff beards to the historical significance of Lutheran pastors' facial hair, they explore how appearance can influence perception and leadership in the church.
2025-08-1837 minCross CheckingScripture AloneThe Bible is critical to Lutheran Identity. Listen in as Ben and Josh talk about it!
2025-07-2146 minCross CheckingLutherans and AlcoholLutherans have a history with alcohol and, in some ways, it has become part of our corporate identity. Ben and Josh talk about that today and where we have to be careful.Also, the audio issues are on Ben - so surely Josh can get some additional points. Right?!
2025-06-3025 minCross CheckingHistoric IdentityLutheran history goes back to the 1500s - right?Well, that depends on your perspective. In this episode, Ben and Josh talk about different historical parts of the church and how they have contributed to Lutheran Identity over the years.
2025-06-2341 minCross CheckingLutheran IdentityIn the first episode of Season 8 of Cross Checking (formerly Manbuns and Jesus, formerly Coffee, Protein Shakes, and Jesus), Josh and Ben introduce the season's topic - Lutheran Identity - and why it might matter to you!
2025-06-1640 minCross CheckingInspirationIn the season finale of Cross Checking, Ben and Josh talk about one of the most fundamental things they don't teach you about at Seminary. How do you convince people to care about this stuff?
2025-05-1932 minCross CheckingChurch is Not a BusinessJoin Ben and Josh in the penultimate episode of the season where we talk about some issues with the framework of how we think about church sometimes.
2025-05-0535 minCross CheckingDiplomacyToday Ben and Josh talk about creatively diplomatic emails and messages to deal with problems that are kinda problems but not full on problems.
2025-04-2836 minCross CheckingExhibition: Snap Your FingersOn this light after-Easter episode, Ben and Josh talk about a couple things they would magically fix in the LCMS if they could.
2025-04-2112 minCross CheckingThe RaptureContinuing in the series-within-a-series on correction bad theology - today Ben and Josh talk about the Rapture.A lot of end-times-y stuff lately, someone should tell these guys to chill.
2025-04-1433 minCross CheckingDecisions, DecisionsBen and Josh continue a little mini-series on correction bad theology. What's in their crosshairs today? Decision theology!
2025-04-0735 minCross CheckingGrow Up!This week Ben and Josh are talking about immaturity in the church. It can impact our spiritual walks and our operations as a community - so we all could probably do with some growing up!
2025-03-0337 minCross CheckingSilver BulletsIn this episode, Ben and Josh talk about when programs are useful for congregations to implement . . . and when they aren't.
2025-02-1736 minCross CheckingMajor ChangesBen and Josh talk about how churches should approach organizational change.
2025-02-1041 minCross CheckingChurch ShoppingIn this episode, Ben and Josh talk about what it should look like when you're picking a church. We also have some mildly spicy takes on what it shouldn't look like.
2025-02-0334 minCross CheckingChange is HardJosh and Ben talk about what happens when churches have to go through major transitions like different professional church workers or changing major ministries.
2025-01-2737 minCross CheckingWho should Christians vote for?The presidential election is tomorrow, so Ben and Josh take on this audacious question.
2024-11-0450 minCross CheckingIn But Not Of: Deals with the DevilBen and Josh talk about whether or not we should genuinely consider that there might be people out there making deals with the devil.
2024-08-2739 min
Cross CheckingConcerning the Office of PreachingWhat are the core objectives of preaching and what actually makes a good sermon? Questions that Ben and Josh wrestle with regularly, now recorded for your podcasting pleasure!
2024-05-2853 min
Cross CheckingConcerning the Son of GodThis is one of those areas where we know the truth, but understanding the "how" and "why" is beyond us. That never stopped us from talking about it before though, so here's an episode!
Also, Ben committed Josh to putting a link in the show notes for a book he referenced. So here's the link and a salty comment about Ben committing Josh to remember things without advance notice.
2024-05-1450 min
Cross CheckingConcerning Original SinThere was never any hope for us, not after the Fall.
And it's cheery ideas like that at the center of what Ben and Josh have to discuss in this episode.
2024-05-0749 min
Cross CheckingConcerning GodIn this episode, Ben and Josh start to get into the substance of the season with a discussion about who God is and why that matters to us so much.
2024-04-3050 min
Cross CheckingThe Book of ConcordIn the sixth season of Manbuns and Jesus, Ben and Josh are planning to dive into the Book of Concord.
What is it?
Why should you care?
How are these fools still recording podcasts?
Some of these questions and more will be answered in the premier of M&J Season 6!
2024-04-2354 minCross CheckingThe Golden CalfIn the final episode of season 5, Ben and Josh talk about the golden calf Israel makes at Mount Sinai.
2024-04-1652 minCross CheckingTabernacle and ArkJosh was absent (like a slacker) but Ben carried on through Exodus with Brenden to talk about the organized worship in Israel.
2024-03-2649 minCross CheckingIn But Not Of: Good FridayBen and Josh take a step out of Exodus to talk about the different celebrations that happen during Holy Week. This week's topic: Good Friday.
2024-03-2625 minCross CheckingIn But Not Of: Maundy ThursdayBen and Josh take a step out of Exodus to talk about the different celebrations that happen during Holy Week. This week's topic: Maundy Thursday.
2024-03-1949 minCross CheckingThe Ten CommandmentsBen and Josh talk about the Ten Commandments and how Christians should interact with laws in the Old Testament.
2024-03-1254 minCross CheckingIn But Not Of: The CallListen in to what the Call process looks like for your pastor and to hear how Ben and Josh plan on approaching it in their own ministries.
2024-03-0555 minCross CheckingBread and WaterBen and Josh dive into Exodus 16-17 and talk about what it means (and doesn't mean) for God to provide for us.
2024-02-2752 minCross CheckingIn But Not Of: Cultivating PenitenceAs we get into the Season of Lent, Ben and Josh take some time to talk about what it actually looks like to adopt an attitude of penitence.
2024-02-2049 minCross CheckingWorshipful Gratitude feat. Jim MarriottBen and Josh have Dr. Jim Marriott on again to discuss the praise of Moses and the Israelites after crossing the Red Sea.
2024-02-0637 minCross CheckingLeaders in the Church feat. Gerhard MichaelBen and Josh talk with the Rev. Dr. Gerhard Michael about leadership in God's church.
2024-01-3048 minCross CheckingThe PassoverBen and Josh continue through Exodus, talking about the Passover and how that impacts our view of Jesus' sacrifice.
2024-01-2348 minCross CheckingPlagues on Creation feat. Ryan MaserOf the plagues of Egypt, all of them impacted humanity to some degree. The first several plagues; however, seem to have their most direct impact on creation itself. Listen in to hear Ben, Josh, and Ryan consider this and sin's impact on creation in general.
2023-12-1253 min2023-10-1753 min2023-10-1047 minCross CheckingSide Note: The Rise of AIThe machines are coming for us!!!!
Not right now, but AI is something people are talking about right now.
2023-10-0352 min2023-09-1952 minCross CheckingPro Tips - Part ITo be clear, we aren't claiming to be professionals. Solomon knew what he was talking about though, advantages of divine gifts of wisdom.
2023-09-1252 minCross CheckingSimple OnesFools love to keep being fools - it's not recommended, but it happens anyway.
2023-08-2954 min2023-08-2244 min2023-08-1541 minCross CheckingWho do you think you are?Full disclosure, this one has a few rabbit trails . . . including the intro. If you feel the need to, real content starts somewhere around the five minute mark.
Summary: Constantly look for different ways to keep engaging your faith and take an attitude of submission in the you-God relationship, because after all, who do you think you are?
2023-08-0843 min2023-08-011h 052023-07-1856 minCross CheckingThings the Lord Hates"There are six things that the LORD hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers." Proverbs 6:16-19
2023-07-111h 07Cross CheckingSide Quest: Fourth of JulyThis is why you should subscribe, because then when we release a Fourth of July episode on the Fourth of July you can actually listen to it on the Fourth of July.
Also . . . MURICA!
2023-07-0450 minCross CheckingSide Quest: Preach!Revealing the mysteries of God, one five . . . ten . . . fifteen . . . thirty minute message at a time.
Also, reach out to Ben and Josh if you'd like to send Caleb a congratulatory Dr. Pepper.
2023-06-2757 minCross CheckingGiving to the Larger Church feat. John Karolus and Jon NiederbrachListen in with John Karolus as a guest host as we welcome the Chief Operating Officer of the PSD to talk about giving to the larger church and tithing. Yeah, we think it's suspicious that Ben was on vacation for this episode too.
Also, check out the work highlighted in the PSD at psd-lcms.org/god-at-work
2023-06-2059 minCross CheckingSpiritual GiftsMost of the time Ben is just a pineapple-steak guy, but sometimes he's a Holy Spirit empowered pineapple-steak guy.
Yeah, we might be overthinking spiritual gifts.
2023-06-1344 minCross CheckingSide Quest: Becoming a PastorWhat does it take to become a pastor in the LCMS and why do we collectively put so much effort into it?
2023-06-061h 03Cross CheckingOrderly Worship feat. Jim MarriottI know during the episode Ben told me to use something for a title, but I didn't feel like it so now there's a boring title. Not that I think the title really matters, or the description for that matter. I mean, how many of you who listen to the podcast read the description before listening?
But I digress, here's an episode about orderly worship and the driving purpose behind what we do together on Sunday mornings.
2023-05-301h 032023-05-2347 minCross CheckingOne Body, Many MembersBen and Josh talk about the different roles that people in the church take on, and how important it can be that they aren't all the same.
2023-05-1753 minCross CheckingThe Lord’s SupperBen and Josh dive back into 1 Corinthians to talk about the Lord's Supper AKA Holy Communion AKA the Sacrament of the Altar AKA the Eucharist.
2023-05-0947 minCross CheckingSide Quest: Answered PrayersIn response to a request, and accidently as a follow-up to Josh's sermon last weekend, here's a podcast on answered prayers and how we should respond to God's answers.
2023-05-0248 minCross CheckingFood Sacrificed to Idols feat. Chad LakiesDr. Chad Lakies of Lutheran Hour Ministries joins Josh and Ben for a great conversation on modern "foods sacrificed to idols" and how Christians ought to conduct themselves. Below are some of the resources mentioned during the episode.
Seculosity by David Zahl
Lutheran Hour Ministries
2023-04-2557 minCross CheckingSide Quest: Missions in Hard PlacesPaul ended up the Rome and shared the Gospel in inhospitable places. That Gospel was powerful enough to draw people in. Listen in to see what Ben and Josh think that means for us!
2023-04-1852 minCross CheckingSide Quest: Dreams and VisionsTaking a brief detour from 1 Corinthians to talk about dreams and visions.
2023-04-1150 minCross CheckingSurrendering RightsHumility is truly counting others as important enough to give yourself up for them. Ben and Josh dive into 1 Corinthians 9 in this episode.
2023-04-0453 min2023-03-2853 minCross CheckingMarriageToday we're talking about what Paul has to say about marriage . . . well, some of what Paul has to say about marriage.
2023-03-2148 minCross CheckingHot Take: RacismThis rounds out our discussion of all of the controversy surrounding the Large Catechism.
2023-03-0750 minCross CheckingHot Take: Self DefenseLately in the LCMS there has been some "controversy" about some things in a new publication by @ConcordiaPublishing . Naturally, Ben and Josh want to talk about it on their podcast. This week we're talking about self-defense.
And yes, we think the thumbnail really portrays the episode well.
2023-02-2144 minCross CheckingHot Take: SexualityLately in the LCMS there has been some "controversy" about some things in a new publication by @ConcordiaPublishing . Naturally, Ben and Josh want to talk about it on their podcast. This week we're talking about sexuality - so happy Valentine's Day we guess.
And yes, we think the thumbnail really portrays the episode well.
2023-02-1448 minCross CheckingSexual Immorality in the ChurchBen and Josh bring on a guest who's much wiser than either of them to talk about 1 Corinthians 5, what it means for the church, and how we deal with the different realities our society faces today.
2023-02-0757 minCross CheckingProclaim Christ CrucifiedJoin Josh, Ben, and Ryan to talk about bringing everything back to the Gospel and always focusing on Jesus!
2023-01-2452 minCross CheckingDivisions in the ChurchJoin Josh, Ben, and Father Ted to talk about what 1 Corinthians 1 has to say about divisions in the church!
2023-01-1746 minCross CheckingThe Survey of ScriptureBen and Josh got together and planned stuff out, that's the radical change that happened with Season 3! Listen in to hear a little about what we'll be doing.
2023-01-1044 minCross CheckingConfessionBen and Josh talk about a really important part of what we do as Christians.
2022-12-0646 minCross CheckingThanks GuysThanksgiving is just a couple days away, so Ben and Josh took the opportunity to just say thank you.
2022-11-2239 minCross CheckingTwo Realms feat. Joel BiermannIn this episode, Ben and Josh talk with Dr. Joel Bierman about the theology of two realms. Don't know what that is? Listen in for a definition!
2022-08-3046 minCross CheckingBen’s License Plate is ELL9666. . . it's a little suspicious. We should probably talk about numbers and symbols and superstitions and rituals.
2022-08-0258 minCross CheckingWTF?! feat. Brenden HarrellToday Josh and Ben invite Brenden on the podcast to talk about Biblical lament, being angry with God, and how we can faithfully deal with all of it.
And also something about pigeons flying around to help with internet connectivity.
2022-06-2151 minCross CheckingWTF?!Today Josh and Ben invite Brenden on the podcast to talk about Biblical lament, being angry with God, and how we can faithfully deal with all of it.
And also something about pigeons flying around to help with internet connectivity.
2022-06-2151 minCross CheckingYouth Ministry feat. Peter LeBoriousThis week Josh and Ben brought on a special guest, Pete LeBorious, to talk about youth ministry. If you're paying close attention, you'll notice that Pete and Josh share a last name. That is because Pete is Josh's dad who has done youth ministry for longer than Josh or Ben has been alive.
2022-05-1756 minCross CheckingYouth Ministry feat. Peter LeBoriousThis week Josh and Ben brought on a special guest, Pete LeBorious, to talk about youth ministry. If you're paying close attention, you'll notice that Pete and Josh share a last name. That is because Pete is Josh's dad who has done youth ministry for longer than Josh or Ben has been alive.
2022-05-1756 minCross CheckingHot Take: Star Wars DayIn the first release of special content for podcast subscribers, Ben and Josh talk about their favorite Star Wars content on May the 4th.
2022-05-0413 minCross CheckingForgive and Forget feat. Ted Kober and Mark RockenbachIn this episode, Ben and Josh sit down with Ted Kober from Ambassadors of Reconciliation and Dr. Mark Rockenbach from Concordia Seminary to talk about Christian forgiveness and the idea of "forgive and forget."
2022-05-0356 minCross CheckingForgive and Forget feat. Mark Rockenbach and Ted KoberIn this episode, Ben and Josh sit down with Ted Kober from Ambassadors of Reconciliation and Dr. Mark Rockenbach from Concordia Seminary to talk about Christian forgiveness and the idea of "forgive and forget."
2022-05-0356 minCross CheckingSexual EthicsIn this episode, Ben and Josh do their best to have an honest, faithful conversation about sexual ethics and how the church should (and shouldn't) handle them.
Disclaimer: This episode contains content relevant to the title that may not be appropriate for the younger kids.
2022-04-1950 minCross CheckingHobbiesThis episode has Ben and Josh talking about hobbies.
And to quote Josh, "if you want to play Destiny together, step one - get good, I don't play with scrubs, and step two send me a friend invite"
That's not really a critical point of the podcast, but he wanted to put it in the description.
2022-04-0551 minCross CheckingCritical _____ TheoryThis week on Manbuns and Jesus, Ben and Josh are talking about a topic that a lot of people have really strong feelings about. This episode comes with a pair of special requests.
Listen to the whole thing
Don't take us out of context
2022-03-2954 minCross CheckingChristian MasculinityTurns out both Ben and Josh are big fans of Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson. This was discovered as we discussed what it means to be a man, especially what it means to be a Christian man.
And if you're not a man, this podcast is still worth your time - at least as much as any of our podcasts are worth your time.
2022-03-2237 minCross CheckingWar! What is it good for?In light of the current events, Ben and Josh talked about how Christians should think about war and conflict.
2022-03-0838 minCross CheckingPower Structure of the LCMSIf you've ever wondered about the larger church we're a part of, this is the episode for you. Josh and Ben talk how it works, why it matters, and how you can get involved.
2022-02-0855 minCross CheckingEthical Chains of EventsHow far along the chain are you responsible for? Are you guilty because you bought a shirt sown with needles made with metal that was used in a murder 1000 years ago? Ben and Josh discuss.
Also, Josh expresses a desire for a secret church currency . . . for some reason.
2022-02-0141 minCross CheckingWhat is a pastor anyway?Ben and Josh talk a little bit about what it means, and what it doesn't mean, to be a called and ordained servant of the Word.
It feels a little weird talking about pastors when you are one, but we managed to power through it!
2022-01-2543 minCross CheckingVirtue SignalingThe guys share their frustration with inconsistency between speech and action. More Josh than Ben though, Ben's one cool cucumber.
2022-01-1834 min