Shows
Scripture FirstWhat Do You Treasure in Your Heart? | Luke 12:32-40 with Lars OlsonJesus says to sell your possessions. Keep your treasure where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Kiri and Mason hear this as something we need to do in order to receive the kingdom. Lars Olson teaches us if we hear this text as something we need to do, Jesus is here to free you from that very thing. CARE OF SOULS - ADDICTIONIn Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pa...
2025-08-0423 minScripture FirstThey Have No Wine | John 2:1-11 with Sarah StensonWe’re breaking down Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding in Cana in this week’s conversation.First, Mary says to Jesus, “They have no wine.” This may seem like a mundane detail of the text, but, as Sarah Stenson teaches us, it reveals Mary’s faith in Jesus and prompts us to ask how we can take that same mindset into prayer. Then we discuss the purpose of miracles. If Jesus came to become sin, take our sin away from us, forgive us, and give us new life, why does he do miracles? ...
2025-01-1327 minScripture FirstCoup de Grâce | Luke 3:15-22 with Dr. Chris CroghanIn the First Sunday After Epiphany, Dr. Chris Croghan joins the conversation to discuss baptism:Why do we need to be baptized?What’s the difference between our baptism today and those who were baptized by John the Baptist? Why was Jesus baptized if he never sinned? In short, your baptism convicts you of killing Christ and forgives you all your sins in one fell swoop. CONFIRMATION Does your church have a confirmation class? Luther House of Study is excited to present a comprehensive online confirmation curriculum. The curriculum includes intera...
2025-01-0629 minScripture FirstThe Word Creates | John 1:1-18 with Lars OlsonThe lectionary text for the first Sunday of 2025 is filled with options to focus a sermon on. Lars Olson joins Kiri and Mason to break down a few of them. First, we discuss the theologically packed first verse, “In the beginning was the Word.” Lars explains why this is an important claim: God’s Word wasn’t created, it’s doing the creating.Next, we talk about verse 10, “He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him.” Lars discusses how John is filled with mind-being stat...
2024-12-3026 minScripture FirstKeeping Up with the Rabbis | Luke 2:41-52 with Sarah StensonMary and Joseph lose Jesus for several days after the Passover festival only to find him in the temple with the rabbis. Sarah Stenson teaches us the incredible confession Mary has when she says to the 12-year old Jesus, ‘Child, why have you treated us like this? Look, your father and I have been searching for you in great anxiety.’ She was in anguish thinking she had lost the Son of God. It’s in this confession we can hear the promise delivered to both Mary and to us: Jesus came to end our anguish with his...
2024-12-2325 minScripture FirstLeaping in the Womb | Luke 1:39-55 with Sarah Stenson & Lars OlsonThis week we’re discussing Elizabeth, pregnant with John the Baptist, giving her sermon to Mary, pregnant with Jesus, and Mary’s Magnificat in response. Sarah Stenson and Lars Olson point out the importance of Elizabeth being filled with the Holy Spirit before delivering her sermon to Mary. As you’ll hear, Mary, and you and I today, are blessed because of what God has spoken to us. Then in Mary’s Magnificat, Sarah and Lars zero in on Mary saying, “My soul magnifies the Lord.” They teach us that it's the great works of God that are b...
2024-12-1629 minScripture FirstVipers, Fruit, and Axes—Oh My! | Luke 3:7-18 with Dr. Chris CroghanThis week, Dr. Chris Croghan is back to discuss John the Baptist in this Advent text saying, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruits worthy of repentance.” Many who hear this text immediately think to themselves, “I don’t want to be a viper. I better get my act together before Christmas.”Dr. Croghan teaches us that being repented is a passive act. Repentance means to have your mind change, and Martin Luther discovered your mind is changed because a word comes to you; there’s something new...
2024-12-0926 minScripture FirstReceiving God’s Word in a Wasteland | Luke 3:1-6 with Lars OlsonIn this week’s conversation, Lars Olson explains what the season of Advent is and why it’s not simply a season of preparation ahead of Christmas: it’s announcing Christ is here, now. Lars also teaches Kiri and Mason why Luke includes so many historical details about the political and religious leaders of the time and the significance of “the wilderness,” and why we encounter God there. Lastly, in a text with John the Bapist saying Jesus is near and quotes from Isaiah saying this is what God is going to do, it can be tempting...
2024-12-0230 minScripture FirstYour Redemption is Drawing Near | Luke 21:25-36 with Sarah StensonIn a text about the signs of Christ’s return, Sarah Stenson teaches us this week that Christians have always looked for the signs that Jesus is about to return. Even Martin Luther listed the events happening in Germany in a sermon about this text!But amidst the destruction, chaos, and fear listed here, there is an incredible promise. Christians who have received Jesus’ word of promise do not have to be afraid: Jesus is coming again, just as he promised he would. All of creation will pass away, but God’s word will not. In a di...
2024-11-2528 minScripture FirstAre Kings Put on Trial? | John 18:33-37 with Dr. Chris CroghanPilate asks Jesus a seemingly straightforward question, "Are you the King of the Jews?" As you’ll hear Dr. Chris Croghan teaches us, it’s anything but.If a king is truly sovereign, he cannot be put on trial. Yet here is Pilate putting Jesus on trial.Every time you question God, you’re accusing him of being a liar. I don’t think this is fair. I don’t want my family member to have this disease. If I were God, I wouldn’t be doing it this way.When you’re being crushed...
2024-11-1821 minScripture FirstThe Ramifications of How-To Sermons | Mark 13:1-8 with Lars Olson & Dr. Chris CroghanJesus and the disciples are back at the temple when the disciples exclaim, “Look, Teacher, what large stones and what large buildings!” You might think this is the disciples admiring a beautiful church, but, as Lars Olson and Dr. Chris Croghan teach us, they’re admitting the church building is an idol for them. Christ continues to point out the idols the disciples, and us today, continue to put above him. And the disciples have the gumption to ask Jesus to give them a warning ahead of God’s wrath coming! Many, many Christians...
2024-11-1128 minScripture FirstTwo Small Copper Coins | Mark 12:38-44 with Lars OlsonJesus warns his disciples of the scribes who walk around in long robes, like to be greeted with respect, and have the best seats at banquets.We ask Lars Olson, what’s so bad about wearing long robes and having good seats? He explains the scribes are using their position to gain admiration in every sphere of life at the expense of those they’re called to protect: orphans, the poor, and widows. Then a poor widow comes and puts two small copper coins in the treasury, and Jesus explains it’s more than the large s...
2024-11-0426 minScripture FirstWhen God Extends His Benefits | Matthew 5:1-12 with Sarah StensonTake a moment to answer this question to yourself: what is a saint?For All Saints Sunday, Sarah Stenson asks Kiri, Max, and Mason what we think a saint is, and we think it’s a path you’re on to become a better Christian. Sarah explains how this text gives us an understanding of what a saint is and who makes us a saint. Also, as you hear the Beatitudes, see if you notice yourself hearing them as instructions on how to live. CONFIRMATION Does your church have a confirm...
2024-10-2830 minScripture FirstThe Truth Will Make You Free | John 8:31-36 with Dr. Chris CroghanTo discuss the Reformation Day text the lectionary gives us every year, we welcome Dr. Chris Croghan back to Scripture First to discuss what is truth. Jesus says to his disciples, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."What does it mean to know the truth? Dr. Croghan quotes Martin Luther: the root of all sin is unbelief. Jesus isn’t the law to the woman who committed adultery. He was mercy. Everyone who doesn’t believ...
2024-10-2118 minScripture FirstHis Life As Ransom | Mark 10:35-45 with Sarah Stenson & Dr. Chris CroghanJames and John ask Jesus to grant them to sit in his glory at his right and left hands. As you’ll hear Sarah Stenson and Dr. Chris Croghan teaches us in this week’s episode, they’re focused on what they want instead of what God wants. Instead of thy will be done, it’s my will be done. Jesus explains that whoever wishes to be first among you must be a slave to all. This Old World is King of the Hill; is this a new instruction? Should you be the biggest slave to get the most...
2024-10-1526 minScripture FirstWhat Must I Do to Inherit Eternal Life? | Mark 10:17-31 with Lars OlsonA man asks Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” Lars Olson explains how there’s one word that unlocks this man’s heart behind asking this question and why Jesus responds the way He does: and that word is “do.”Like this man, many Christians want a role to play in earning their salvation. They want instructions on how to be a good person. As you’ll hear Lars teach, instead of preaching the Gospel, pastors can end up softening the Law. But that’s not what Jesus does: He unleashes the full...
2024-10-0734 minScripture FirstReceive the Kingdom Like a Child | Mark 10.2-16 with Dr. Chris CroghanIn this week’s lectionary text, Jesus addresses some of the most hot-button issues when asked, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?”Dr. Chris Croghan turns the heat up on those who are nervous to preach this text because it might offend someone: the law actually divides people and today’s culture wars are about this law: love. Love doesn’t win. It creates tribes and divides people. You love the things that serve you. There’s no such thing as unconditional love. But that’s why Jesus says the kingdom of G...
2024-09-3033 minScripture FirstGreat Millstones Hung Around Your Neck | Mark 9.38-50 with Sarah StensonThe disciples report there is someone casting out demons in Jesus’ name, and Jesus says whoever is for Him cannot be against him. This spurs our conversation with Sarah Stenson about what it means to be ecumenical: who can Lutherans share the altar and pulpit with? What does it mean to have, “right doctrine?”Sarah explains how right doctrine matters because it reflects Scripture. Right doctrine shows our righteousness is in Christ, not in our self-righteousness or human tradition. We also discuss what it means to be a stumbling block. In this lectionary text, Jesus is bein...
2024-09-2334 minScripture FirstGreatness Is Not the Goal | Mark 9:30-37 with Lars Olson & Sarah StensonGod tells the disciples to listen to Jesus. Jesus tells them exactly what’s going to happen. Yet they don’t understand. They argue about which of them is the greatest.Lars Olson and Sarah Stenson explain how Jesus saying, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all,” is not an instructional. If you try to be last, you’re still putting yourself first. When you have faith, you’ll be a servant of all. You won’t be worried about who’s first or who gets credit. You can pour yourself...
2024-09-1625 minScripture FirstThe Cross Looms | Mark 8:27-38 with Lars OlsonJesus puts His disciples on the spot by asking, “Who do you say that I am?” With nowhere to hide, Peter boldly proclaims, “You are the Messiah.” With that correct answer, Jesus clearly explains what it means to be the Messiah: He will suffer, die, and be raised. The only problem? Peter doesn’t agree.In this week’s conversation, we ask Lars Olson, why does Jesus call Peter, Satan? Satan tries to confuse God’s Word by asking, “Did God really say?” And that’s exactly what Peter is doing after Jesus explains what it means to have Him...
2024-09-0929 minScripture FirstTrue Food, True Drink | John 6:51-58 with Lars Olson"I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” This is what Jesus says in this week’s lectionary text. What does it mean to never be hungry? To believe and never be thirsty? Dr. Chris Croghan explains what it means that Jesus is the bread of life. To never be hungry and thirsty means you won’t chase your needs or be worried about self preservation. That’s a glimpse of eternal life. But how do we get this bread of life? I...
2024-08-1224 minScripture FirstWhat Does It Mean to Believe? | John 6:35,41-51 with Dr. Chris Croghan"I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” This is what Jesus says in this week’s lectionary text. What does it mean to never be hungry? To believe and never be thirsty? Dr. Chris Croghan explains what it means that Jesus is the bread of life. To never be hungry and thirsty means you won’t chase your needs or be worried about self preservation. That’s a glimpse of eternal life. But how do we get this bread of life? I...
2024-08-0524 minScripture FirstThe True Bread from Heaven | John 6:24-35 with Sarah StensonOn the heels of eating their fill of loaves and fishes, the crowd tracked Jesus down on the other side of the Sea of Galilee looking for more of their needs to be met. Jesus tells them not to work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life. Sarah Stenson teaches Kiri and Mason why the crowd is confused about what they have to do to receive eternal life when Jesus tells them very clearly that He is the one who gives it freely. Though we often hear, “I am t...
2024-07-2924 minScripture FirstPlenty of Leftovers | John 6:1-21 with Dr. Chris Croghan & Sarah StensonThis week, we’re discussing the popular story of the Feeding of the 5,000. Dr. Chris Croghan and Sarah Stenson teach Kiri and me the details that show what Jesus is doing in this story to produce faith in the people who ate the fish and loaves as well as in those who hear this story today. In this week’s conversation, we ask Chris and Sarah:What’s the difference between miracles and parables? Do they do different things? Why did Jesus set Philip up by asking, "Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?"...
2024-07-2232 minScripture FirstWhy Do You Preach Before Eating? | Mark 6:30-34,53-56 with Dr. Chris CroghanIn this week’s lectionary text, Jesus and His apostles attempt to get away from the crowds by heading to a deserted place by boat. The only issue? The people are so desperate to hear a Word from Jesus, they beat them to the other side of the sea on foot! Dr. Chris Croghan teaches Kiri, Max, and Mason what it means that, “God’s Word is for you.” What does God’s Word say and why is it good news for me, personally? The result? We hear what God’s very nature is, and what He thinks...
2024-07-1519 minScripture FirstA Crooked, Crooked Story | Mark 6:14-29 with Lars OlsonIn a lectionary text that’s extremely difficult to understand (let alone preach), Lars Olson guides us through the historical nuances of the story of King Herod, John the Baptist, and Herodias, and the many, many ditches this text puts in front of the hearer. You’ll even hear Kiri, Max, and Mason fall into one of those ditches in the middle of this conversation. Lars made the key note that you should keep in mind as you hear this text: When you read this text, what does it do? Fill you with hope and comfort? No, it sh...
2024-07-0825 minScripture FirstScandalized & Offended | Mark 6:1-13 with Sarah StensonThis week’s lectionary text centers on the people in Jesus’ hometown saying, “Where did this man get all this? What is this wisdom that has been given to him?...Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary?’...And they took offense at him.”Sarah Stenson explains why these people were astounded at Jesus, and how people are offended by Jesus’ message today, too. Many, many people want God to be fair, to operate by the rules. Instead, Jesus delivers mercy and forgiveness. It blows up the law and leaves us scandalized and offended.
2024-07-0129 minScripture FirstThe Wind and Sea Obey | Mark 4:35-41 with Dr. Chris CroghanCaught in a windstorm with the waves from the Sea of Galilee swamping the boat, the disciples are terrified for their lives as Jesus sleeps soundly in the stern. Dr. Chris Croghan teaches Kiri, Max, and Mason:How Jesus is so calm in a life threatening situation Why the English translation of Jesus’ response to the sea doesn’t cut itAnd how preachers can deliver the gospel in a text that doesn’t have the forgiveness of sins or Jesus raising the deadCOURSESDo you like what you learn in the c...
2024-06-1725 minScripture FirstGod Hides Our Good Works | Mark 4:26-34 with Sarah StensonWhat comes to your mind when you think of the kingdom of God? A place? A thing? A membership? In this episode of Scripture First, Sarah Stenson explains how the kingdom of God is faith in Christ. This is crucial to not only understanding the parable of the growing seed and mustard seed in this week’s text, but to understanding that all parables are about God electing you. Faith comes through hearing. Preachers are delivering the kingdom of God—delivering faith in Christ—by electing those who hear their message and delivering them to the king...
2024-06-1025 minScripture FirstBaptism is an Exorcism | Mark 3:20-35 with Lars OlsonJesus is healing people, casting out demons, and forgiving sins. The scribes respond by calling Him the chief of demons. Lars Olson joins the Scripture First to explain how Jesus not only dismantles their logic, but flips it on them. A higher demon wouldn’t throw out a lower demon. They’d empower them! He came to bind the demons to take what they claimed to have possessed for Himself. We also talk about a verse that scares many: 29 “but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal...
2024-06-0324 minScripture FirstThe Sabbath was Made for Humankind | Mark 2:23-3:6 with Lars Olson & Dr. Chris CroghanAfter performing the first miracles of His ministry and demonstrating authority at the temple, a Pharisee named Nicodemus seeks Jesus out at night to determine where He gets His power. Dr. Chris Croghan teaches us context and meaning packed into this text starting with why Nicodemus came to Jesus at night. We also discuss Jesus’ response to Nicodemus, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above,” and how hearing the Greek translation of this text flips the understanding of being born from above as something we hav...
2024-05-2731 minScripture FirstThe Sin of Selfishness | John 3:1-17 with Dr. Chris CroghanAfter performing the first miracles of His ministry and demonstrating authority at the temple, a Pharisee named Nicodemus seeks Jesus out at night to determine where He gets His power. Dr. Chris Croghan teaches us context and meaning packed into this text starting with why Nicodemus came to Jesus at night. We also discuss Jesus’ response to Nicodemus, "Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above,” and how hearing the Greek translation of this text flips the understanding of being born from above as something we hav...
2024-05-2033 minScripture FirstCan You Know God? | John 17:6-19 with Lars OlsonThe same night that Jesus is arrested, He gives a lengthy prayer. Kiri, Max, and Mason ask Lars Olson, why did Jesus say this prayer and what is the content of what He’s praying? Jesus tells His disciples, and us, that He has given His word to everyone God has given to Him. That word delivers God’s very nature: mercy. Having received God’s mercy, you are now a new creation. You are comfortable being God’s creature. Keep this in mind as you hear about Judas and the rest of the disciples' betrayal o...
2024-05-0635 minScripture FirstYou Don’t Choose Jesus | John 15:9-17 with Dr. Chris CroghanIn a text that says, “abide in my love,” “if you keep my commandments,” and, “I am giving you these commands so that you may love one another,” you may think Jesus is giving you the instruction manual on how to live correctly. But then He says, “You did not choose me but I chose you.” Sarah Stenson and Dr. Chris Croghan explains how the texts from recent weeks all point to this moment of election. Some people are chosen. Others are not. God is the one acting. But it’s not a surprise whether you’...
2024-04-2930 minScripture FirstA Good Pruning | John 15:1-8 with Dr. Chris CroghanThis week’s text says that Jesus is the vine and God is the vinegrower. Everyone who produces fruit, God prunes to produce more fruit. Everyone who doesn't produce fruit, God lops off the vine to wither and burn. And this is supposed to be reassurance?Dr. Chris Croghan explains how this is an election text. The fact you’re hearing this means you’re connected to the vine; you’re connected to Jesus. Through that connection, you’re producing fruit: faith. COURSESDo you like what you learn in the conversa...
2024-04-2227 minScripture FirstSheep Are Not Aspirational | John 10:1-10 with Sarah StensonMany of Jesus’ “I Am” statements lend themselves to comforting depictions for Christians. “I am the light of the world,” makes for a nice painting! But in today’s passage, Jesus is the gate. Sarah Stenson teaches us how Jesus is being categorical in this text. There are two options: enter through the gate by hearing the shepherd’s voice or climbing in another way which makes you a thief and a bandit. Many will hear this as a prescription: how can I be a sheep and not a thief who steals, kills, and destroys? But this is an e...
2024-04-1530 minScripture FirstA Ghost! | Luke 24:36b-48 with Lars OlsonThe two men who encountered Jesus on the road to Emmaus are just starting to tell the disciples about what they’d experienced when Jesus appears before them again. Lars Olson explains how the Gospel of Luke is using this literary structure to depict what happens when the resurrected Jesus shows up: fear, joy, and disbelief. The resurrection is so unbelievable the disciples desperately try to rationalize it away by explaining that Jesus must be a ghost. Lars teaches us that, for most of church history too, we’ve had a difficult time with Jesus’ body. We...
2024-04-0828 minScripture FirstBreaking the Laws of Nature | John 20:19-31 with Dr. Chris Croghan & Sarah StensonThe political power, religious authorities, and the general public all demanded Jesus’ death. The disciples were terrified they were next. Suddenly, Jesus breaks the laws of nature and shows up in the locked room and starts a sermon: peace be with you. Here is the consequence of your sin. Dr. Chris Croghan and Sarah Stenson explain how Jesus shows them the marks on His hands and sides and clearly places the bullseye on all of them, and all of us: your sin is what killed me. Yet the message is loud and clear: Jesus...
2024-04-0125 minScripture FirstHe is Not Here | Mark 16:1-8 with Sarah Stenson & Dr. Chris CroghanIt’s Easter Sunday and three women head to Jesus’ tomb fully expecting to find the dead body of the man they betrayed. Suddenly, an angel appears to deliver them the incredible news that is the basis of the Christian faith: “He has been raised; he is not here.” Sarah Stenson and Dr. Chris Croghan explains why the women expected to find death despite Jesus having told them He would be raised, the importance of the angel’s sermon, and the surprising last verse of the original manuscript of the Gospel of Mark. COURSES
2024-03-2520 minScripture FirstWaving Palm Branches | Mark 11:1-11 with Sarah Stenson & Dr. Chris CroghanPalm Sunday. Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. In many churches, we’ll wave our palm branches and shout, “Hosanna!” In this week’s conversation, Sarah Stenson and Dr. Chris Croghan explain how the crowds believed the Messiah was going to be a king whose power came through the Law. They thought the Messiah would defeat their enemies and make their lives materially better—much like how people view being a Christian today will benefit them. The crowd chants, “Hosanna! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our ancestor David!” They didn’t know it, but they were confessing exac...
2024-03-1834 minScripture FirstThe Greeks Show Up | John 12:20-33 with Dr. Chris CroghanDr. Chris Croghan summarized this week’s text in two sentences, “God made a promise. God fulfilled that promise.” After his triumphant entry into Jerusalem, a few Greeks show up to the festival. What could be overlooked as a passing detail, Dr. Croghan explains how pivotal this detail is. God promised Abraham that the Messiah would come from his line for all nations. With the Greeks showing up, suddenly it’s not just the Israelites. Non-Jews were present, too. With the promise fulfilled, Jesus proclaimed, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified...
2024-03-1129 minScripture FirstTheir Deeds Were Evil | John 3:14-21 with Lars OlsonKiri and Mason welcome Lars Olson to the podcast to break down the verses surrounding one of the most well-known verses in the Bible: John 3:16. This week’s lectionary text begins with, “And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness…” Lars explains the story about God sending snakes to bite His people in Numbers and Moses lifting up a bronze snake. Then we ask, “What does it mean that God so loved the world?” Lars teaches us we think of love as an exchange: if I love you, there’s an expectation you love me back...
2024-03-0427 minScripture FirstDoes the Old Testament Matter to Christians? | John 2:13-22 with Sarah StensonA dramatic scene unfolds at the temple where Jesus is driving out livestock with a whip and flipping over the bankers’ tables, spilling money everywhere. Kiri and Mason ask Sarah Stenson what’s happening here and why is Jesus reacting with such a physical disturbance? She explains the context of Passover: a festival where God commanded His people to offer a sacrifice, but—over time—the priests taught that sacrifices were the best form of worship (over obeying other aspects of the Law like the 10 Commandments). That’s idolatry! This diverted the conversation into a discus...
2024-02-2636 minScripture FirstThis Will Be the Death of You | Mark 8:31-38 with Dr. Chris Croghan & Sarah StensonImmediately after Peter correctly identifies Jesus as the Messiah, Jesus lays out the entirety of what that means in a single verse: He’s going to undergo great suffering, be rejected, be killed, and rise again. Peter tries to prevent this from happening and Jesus tells him, “Get behind me, Satan!” Both Dr. Chris Croghan and Sarah Stenson teach us in this conversation why Jesus reacts this way. It’s an example of setting your mind on a human thing—idolatry—instead of on divine things. They also break down Jesus’ words, “If any want to become...
2024-02-1933 minScripture FirstAnd the Angels Waited On Him | Mark 1:9-15 with Sarah StensonAt the beginning of Lent, the Gospel of Mark continues on a blistering pace: in six verses, Jesus is baptized, driven into the wilderness, John was arrested, and Jesus proclaimed the good news of God. In these six verses, Kiri, Max, and Mason ask Sarah Stenson about the details that could get overlooked when focusing on the big events happening in these verses. At Jesus’ baptism, Sarah explains how the Greek word for “just” in the verse, “and just as he was coming up out of the water,” means immediately. There’s no separation in time between J...
2024-02-1232 minScripture FirstSent Back Down the Mountain | Mark 9:1-10 with Dr. Chris CroghanThe Transfiguration. A literal mountaintop experience, and the bookend to the season of Epiphany as Jesus moves toward Jerusalem, His crucifixion, and, ultimately, His resurrection. Kiri, Max, and Mason ask Dr. Chris Croghan why Jesus elected Peter, James, and John to witness this incredible moment when they've been acting like the Three Stooges up to this point. We also discuss what transfiguration actually means as it remains a difficult-to-envision story in the Gospels. As you’ll hear Dr. Croghan teach, transfiguration doesn’t mean Jesus is being made better. It means dealing with sin. It means...
2024-02-0528 minScripture FirstMiracle Worker vs Preacher | Mark 1:29-39 with Lars OlsonWe continue to move through Mark at a breakneck speed: John the Baptist, Jesus’ baptism, Jesus vs Satan in the wilderness, Jesus teaching in the synagogue with authority before casting out a demon; all in the first chapter! Now, Jesus enters Simon’s mother-in-law’s house to heal her from a fever. Word gets out, and the entire city descends looking for a piece of Jesus’ miracles. In this week’s conversation, Kiri, Max, and Mason ask Lars Olson:The disciples were married?!If Jesus says He came to proclaim the message, why does He continue...
2024-01-2928 minScripture FirstJesus Leaves Them Dumbfounded | Mark 1:21-28 with Sarah Stenson & Dr. Chris CroghanIn this week’s lectionary text, we hear of the first thing Jesus does in His ministry: teach in the synagogue with authority. As you’ll hear Sarah Stenson and Dr. Chris Croghan teach Kiri, Cole, and Mason, everyone who heard Jesus was shocked because He spoke with the power of God. The event only gets more shocking as a man controlled by a demon bursts on the scene. We discuss: How do the demons know it’s Jesus?What does it mean for Jesus to be able to command demons?Why were the scribes panicked that Jes...
2024-01-2233 minScripture FirstCaught In Jesus’ Net | Mark 1:14-20 with Dr. Chris CroghanIn this week’s episode, Kiri, Cole, and Mason welcome Dr. Chris Croghan back to the podcast to break down Jesus’ first sermon in the rapid Gospel of Mark. In five short words, Jesus fulfills the Old Testament and ushers in the kingdom of God. "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news." They ask Dr. Croghan: What does it mean the time is fulfilled? What is the kingdom of God and how can it be near when heaven is a place we go when we die? How can...
2024-01-1535 minScripture FirstYou Will See Greater Things | John 1:43-51 with Sarah StensonIn this week’s text, Jesus goes to Galilee and finds Philip and tells him to, “Follow me.” This prompts Philip to tell Nathanael they’ve found the one the Old Testament prophesied. Sarah Stenson explains how this is what happens when Jesus grabs you. When you hear of Jesus’ promise you can’t help but to tell others about it. Similarly, Jesus tells Nathanael He’s known him before He ever met him, and Nathanael responds, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God!” When you’re named by Christ, you confess that He is the one. She also points out that Je...
2024-01-0834 minScripture FirstThe Face of the Deep | Genesis 1:1-5 with Lars OlsonHappy New Year, Scripture First listeners! The lectionary text for the first Sunday of 2024 centers on the same verses about John the Baptist we discussed a few weeks ago in Advent. In our conversation, Kiri and Mason ask Lars Olson about the verses not included in the previous passage: Jesus’ baptism and how it ties into the creation story in Genesis chapter one. We cover high level questions about baptism: what is the promise you receive in your baptism? What’s the difference between baptism and the other sacraments? If baptism is to deliver the promise of the forgiveness of s...
2024-01-0132 minScripture FirstUnder the Law | Luke 2:22-40 with Dr. Chris Croghan & Sarah StensonWhat does it mean Jesus was put under the law? That He who knew no sin became sin? That’s the question Kiri, Justin, and Mason ask Dr. Chris Croghan and Sarah Stenson in this week’s episode about Jesus in the temple and the prophets Simeon and Anna. In order for Jesus to get rid of the law, He needs to go under it so it can do its full work on Him. We try to make sense of the gospel: how can three people be one? How can God be under something He created? How can someone who...
2023-12-2628 minScripture FirstA Man Sent From God | John 1:6-8, 19-28 with Dr. Chris CroghanIf this week’s text sounds similar to the text we discussed last week, that’s because it is: John the Baptist is back and we welcome Dr. Chris Croghan to explain how the John passage is different from the Mark passage. The priests and Levites think God will bring salvation through the law, but John the Baptist—out in the wilderness—is pointing his long bony finger saying the Messiah is coming outside of the law. We also discuss how paths are made straight. Dr. Croghan teaches us having faith is what makes you righteous in God’s eyes. The...
2023-12-1125 minScripture FirstClothed with Camel's Hair | Mark 1:1-8 with Sarah StensonWe're discussing the opening verses of the Gospel of Mark, starting with, "1 The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God." Sarah Stenson explains how this verse shows how the entire book of Mark is good news: we now have God's mercy, in the flesh, as promised in Genesis. His name is Jesus. As we discuss John the Baptist, Kiri, Justin and Mason ask Sarah: what does it mean to make the Lord's paths straight? Many assume this is a to-do. Sarah explains the quoted Isaiah passage is passive, something that happens to you. Lastly...
2023-12-0426 minScripture FirstThe Most Comforting Thing | Mark 13:24-37 with Lars OlsonIt's the most wonderful time of the year, but when you show up to church this week you're going to hear this passage about imminent destruction and the impending end times. It's a common reaction to be frightened by this, but—as Lars Olson explains—Jesus said these things as a word of comfort. You WILL lose everything: house, job, spouse, family, your life. All of the coming wars, famines, and persecutions will end in death. The only thing that won't? Jesus' word. It's the only thing that goes through the end of the world into new life. To give...
2023-11-2732 minScripture FirstTen Bridesmaids | Matthew 25:1-13 with Sarah StensonWe dive into the Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids with Sarah Stenson this week. Five wise bridesmaids were prepared for the bridegroom by bringing oil for their lamps. Compare that to the five foolish bridesmaids who came unprepared and demanded the wise bridesmaids share their oil only to be turned down, and, while they were off buying their own oil, the bridegroom showed up and the door to the wedding banquet was shut. We hear Jesus conclude this parable in a terrifying way: "Truly I tell you, I do not know you. Keep awake therefore, for you know neither...
2023-11-0633 minScripture FirstWhat Is a Sermon? | Matthew 5:1-12 with Lars OlsonFor All Saints Sunday, we're welcoming Lars Olson to break down the beginning of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount: the Beatitudes. As you'll hear Lars teach us, people who have diseases, demons, and are dying are gathering around Jesus, and, instead of healing them, Jesus begins to preach. So many people hear these verses and think, "the blessing will come once I get through this hard time," or even more dramatically, "I'll know I'm being a good Christian when people start to revile me." But Lars focuses directly on what Jesus is getting at: the blessing happens IN the...
2023-10-3028 minScripture FirstReformation Sunday | John 8:31-36 with Sarah Stenson & Lars OlsonIt's Reformation Sunday and Sarah Stenson and Lars Olson join the podcast to break down the bedrock of biblical Reformation theology and Martin Luther's law-gospel distinction by answering Kiri and Mason's questions including: How can you continue in Jesus' word? How do you know the truth? What does it mean to be a slave to sin? Lars and Sarah explain that Christ is the one who keeps you in his word. Staying in his word makes you a disciple. Abiding in his word allows you to know the truth, and the truth will make you free. Free from what...
2023-10-2327 minScripture FirstShow Me the Coin | Matthew 22:15-22 with Dr. Chris Croghan & Sarah StensonThe Pharisees plot to entrap Jesus in an impossible to answer question. If Jesus answers one way, He breaks Jewish law by breaking the First Commandment. If He answers the other way, the Roman authorities have grounds to arrest Him. How does Jesus get out of this dilemma? By flipping the accusation on to the Pharisees: show me the coin used for the tax. If Jesus is the one on trial, why do the Pharisees hold the thing He's not supposed to hold? In the end, all of Scripture has been saying that God doesn't want your sacrifice, He...
2023-10-1630 minScripture FirstThe Word Into the World | Matthew 22:1-14 with Dr. Chris CroghanThe Parable of the Wedding Banquet—when Jesus tells a parable, He's talking about election. In this week's lectionary text, Jesus tells the Pharisees a parable about a king gave a wedding banquet for his son. As you'll hear Dr. Chris Croghan explain, Jesus had sent out his disciples to the lost sheep of Israel—to the Jews like the Pharisees. They were the first to hear God's promise and what did they do with it? They take the gift of God and thumb their nose at it. The Pharisees are enraged by this parable. It's not fair. It does...
2023-10-0930 minScripture FirstA Different Kind of Parable | Matthew 21:33-46 with Sarah StensonIn this week's lectionary text, Jesus continues to address the Pharisees who questioned His authority last week. He tells them a different kind of parable—not a parable of election, but a parable addressing what the Old Testament says about Him. The Pharisees think if they kill Jesus, they'll get rid of the man who is claiming to have the authority of God and they'll be the ones back in charge. But—as you'll hear Sarah Stenson explain—Jesus is explaining one of the most misunderstood phrases in Christianity: that the kingdom of God is not a place. It's a rela...
2023-10-0228 minScripture FirstPlaying Power Games | Matthew 21:23-32 with Lars Olson“By what authority are you doing these things, and who gave you this authority?” The religious power players confront Jesus about His teaching and preaching with authority. Jesus flips the question on the chief priests and elders to reveal their supposed power is based on their own thinking—they only care what the crowd thinks. As Lars Olson explains, Jesus reveals where righteousness and true power comes from: God. SING TO THE LORDListen to Luther House of Study's newest podcast: Sing to the Lord! Martin Luther said, "Next to the word of God, th...
2023-09-2525 minScripture FirstPeople Hate Unfairness | Matthew 20:1-16 with Lars OlsonIn this week's episode, Jesus is explaining what the kingdom of heaven is like by comparing it to a generous landowner who hires laborers to work in his vineyard at all times of the day, promising to pay them whatever is right. Everyone is on board if this is what heaven is like! Things take a turn at the end of the day when the landowner pays the workers an equal amount, regardless of how long they worked. Lars Olson explains in this week's conversation how the kingdom of heaven is not fair, it's generous. As you'll hear, the...
2023-09-1825 minScripture FirstHow Do You Use These Keys? | Matthew 18:21-35 with Sarah Stenson & Dr. Chris CroghanIn Adam's farewell episode, we're discussing Peter's natural question after Jesus tells him the definition of the church is to use the office of the keys to bind and loose sin. How often do I have to forgive? Sarah Stenson and Dr. Chris Croghan explain how Jesus forgives Peter's sin and Peter immediately tries to place that forgiveness back in the law. Then Chris and Sarah break down the Parable of Unmerciful Servant ending with the statement, "When you have faith in Christ, you're not looking to get even. Forgiveness just flows out from you." SING T...
2023-09-1124 minScripture FirstChurch: Defined | Matthew 18:15-20 with Dr. Chris CroghanThe only time in the entire Bible Jesus says the word, "church," is in this week's lectionary text. It's the only place Jesus defines what His church means, we better pay attention! Kiri and Mason ask Dr. Chris Croghan: What does it mean to be a member of the church? What's the difference between saying, "it's ok," versus, "I forgive you?" and how is forgiving each other's sin in private pastoral care? SING TO THE LORDListen to Luther House of Study's newest podcast: Sing to the Lord! Martin Luther said, "Next to t...
2023-09-0432 minScripture FirstGet Behind Me, Satan! | Matthew 16:21-28 with Sarah StensonFor the first time, Jesus tells His disciples He's going to be killed and be raised from the dead. Understandably, Peter objects, "This must never happen to you," causing Jesus to say to him, "Get behind me, Satan!" Sarah Stenson teaches Adam, Kiri, and Mason how this is Peter's confession of sin. Peter is trying to prevent Jesus from doing what He came to do. He doesn't have faith to respond, "Amen. Thy will be done." Then we explain what Jesus meant in saying, "let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." Denying yourself and...
2023-08-2831 minScripture FirstWe Have the Messiah Here! | Matthew 16:13-20 with Lars OlsonJesus opens this week's text by asking His disciples a general question, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" As you'll hear Lars Olson teach Kiri and Mason, the disciples answer: John the Baptist, Elijah, or Jeremiah. Then Jesus asks them directly, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter confesses, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." Lars explains what it means for Peter to have been given this confession as well as other details including: How Christians differ on what Jesus meant by saying, "on this rock I will build...
2023-08-2131 minScripture FirstShe Keeps Shouting | Matthew 15:21-28 with Dr. Chris Croghan & Sarah StensonAfter dealing with the Pharisees and their cleanliness and righteousness in the law, Jesus enters pagan cities and encounters a Canaanite woman whose daughter is tormented by a demon. Adam and Mason ask Dr. Chris Croghan and Sarah Stenson, what does it mean the Pharisees thought they were righteous according to the law and why is righteousness a matter of the heart? In His exchanges with His disciples and the woman, Jesus finally says, "It is not fair to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs." We learn what Jesus meant in saying this: the woman...
2023-08-1428 minScripture FirstDaily Bread In Abundance | Matthew 14:13-21 with Sarah StensonFeeding the 5000, a miracle story found in all four gospels—Kiri and Mason welcome Sarah Stenson back to Scripture First to break down this famous passage. Sarah teaches us how this story is not a story of the forgiveness of sins; it's a story of how "all ate and were filled." God creates, and gives us daily bread, in abundance. God gives us everything we need to sustain life. With faith, we can be comfortable knowing He is our God. Plus, we discuss how the details in the verses around the main action of this passage describes God's nature an...
2023-07-3127 minScripture FirstMustard Seeds, Yeast, Hidden Treasure, & Fine Pearls | Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 with Lars OlsonJesus says He purposely makes parables difficult to understand so we turn to Him for the explanation. This week, we have four parables in the same lectionary text: the parables of the mustard seed, the yeast, the hidden treasure, and the pearl. Lars Olson teaches Adam, Kiri, and Mason that all of these parables are depicting what the kingdom of heaven is like. For the mustard seed and the yeast, it's how the kingdom of heaven starts as nothing, but grows to become everything. Then for the hidden treasure and the pearl, it's how the kingdom of heaven grabs...
2023-07-2426 minScripture FirstWeeds & Wheat | Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 with Sarah Stenson & Dr. Chris CroghanComing off of last week's passage where the disciples asked Jesus why He speaks in parables, Jesus puts another one to them: the Parable of the Weeds among the Wheat. Sarah Stenson and Dr. Chris Croghan join Adam, Kiri, and Mason to explain what Jesus is getting at in this parable: what election means. Election can be a scary topic. Am I in? Am I out? And as you'll hear in the conversation, God is the one who's choosing who has the ears to hear. God is electing who understands these parables. Keep this in mind amid the weeping...
2023-07-1722 minScripture FirstMy Yoke Is Easy | Matthew 11:16-19,25-30 with Sarah StensonIn this summer lectionary text, Sarah Stenson joins Kiri Haugen and Mason Van Essen to discuss what it means that Jesus is exclusive in stating, "no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." Then we get the incredibly reassuring verse, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest," before wrapping up the conversation discussing what Jesus' yoke is and how we are to take it upon ourselves.SING TO THE LORDListen...
2023-07-0321 minScripture FirstA Prophet's Reward | Matthew 10:40-42 with Lars OlsonWhat is the prophet's reward? What does it mean to welcome Jesus? Should churches get better at welcoming strangers? These are the questions Adam, Kiri, and Mason ask Lars Olson in this week's conversation. Lars explains how the world is trained to hear reward as the opposite of punishment—you get a reward for good behavior. But—as you'll hear Jesus explain—the prophet's reward is receiving Christ's Word. Lars also teaches us how it's easy to mistake these verses on welcoming as a charge for churches to be more welcoming places. It's not about the act of "welcoming," it's a...
2023-06-2620 minScripture FirstPlagiarizing Jesus | Matthew 10.24-39 with Dr. Chris Croghan & Sarah StensonThis text is packed with well-known verses like: "A disciple is not above the teacher, nor a slave above the master..." "...but whoever denies me before others, I also will deny before my Father in heaven." "Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it." Dr. Chris Croghan and Sarah Stenson lead us in a wide-ranging conversation addressing Adam, Kiri, and my questions that include: What does it mean that God will kill you? How is that related to fearing God? How do you acknowledge or deny Christ...
2023-06-1933 minScripture FirstA Gospel Sandwich | Matthew 9:35-10:8 with Dr. Chris CroghanWhen Jesus saw the crowds, in this week's lectionary text, he had compassion for them because they were harassed and helpless. Jesus said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few." Then, Jesus gives his disciples the authority and power to reverse the crowd's harassment and helplessness. How? By proclaiming the good news. Dr. Chris Croghan join Kiri and Mason to discuss what it means for Jesus to have authority, how he gives that authority to his disciples in this text, and how we can use that same authority today to reverse dropping church attendance...
2023-06-1223 minScripture FirstMaking Fun of Death | Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 with Sarah StensonAs you heard in Mason's initial reaction, this week's lectionary text is bonkers. It's absolutely nonsensical. A man asks Jesus to touch his dead daughter to bring her back to life, and—on His way —a woman with hemorrhages touches His cloak to be healed. Once there, Jesus says the girl is just sleeping. People laugh at Him. But, as you'll hear Sarah Stenson teach us in this week's conversation, Jesus came for the sick, not the well. In fact, Jesus didn't comes to make us physically well, He came to end death once and for all. By the end...
2023-06-0532 minScripture FirstAll Authority in Heaven and on Earth | Matthew 28:16-20 with Lars OlsonIt's Holy Trinity Sunday and Adam, Kiri, and Mason ask Lars Olson in this week's conversation: what is the Trinity? What does it mean to have authority? And what does it mean that Jesus is with us always? Lars explains that Jesus saying go and make disciples and baptize them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit is very much a command, but that doesn't make Jesus the new Moses. Instead, Jesus is giving us His authority—the authority over literally everything—to do these things. That is freedom. SING TO THE LORD
2023-05-2923 minScripture FirstTongues of Fire | Acts 2:1-21 with Nick HopmanIn this Day of Pentecost episode of Scripture First, we're breaking down a passage in Acts where God breaks into His creation like a rush of violent wind and divided tongues of fire rest on the disciples. Adam, Kiri and Mason ask: What is Pentecost? What is a tongue of fire? And why is God delivering this miracle years after Jesus was resurrected and ascended to heaven? Nick Hopman explains how something new is happening here. The Holy Spirit is coming in a new way. Now, not just the prophets can speak of God's promises. Everyone can. We killed...
2023-05-2223 minScripture FirstWhat Is God's Name? | John 17:6-19 with Sarah StensonJesus tells His disciples He is going to leave them and they being to panic. In today's lectionary text: Luther House of Study's, Lars Olson, explains how Jesus responds to His disciples—and to us—by promising to give them another Advocate. Lars teaches us in order for Jesus to be with us forever, He first has to leave us. The Advocate is the Holy Spirit, who abides with us and in us, forever. Jesus is the truth and the Advocate is the Spirit of truth, using Jesus' Word to deliver the promise of faith and life everlasting. Adam, Kiri...
2023-05-1528 minScripture FirstTaking Captivity Captive | Luke 24:44-53 with Dr. Chris CroghanIn this special Ascension Day episode, Adam, Kiri, and Mason ask Dr. Chris Croghan: how can both of these things be true? How can Jesus stay with us forever and ascend into heaven? Dr. Croghan points us to Psalm 68:18 where Jesus—in the Hebrew translation—was prophesied to take captivity captive. He kills death. It may seem like an oxymoron, but, as you'll hear Dr. Croghan teach us in this conversation, Jesus ends the law. Christ was promised in the Old Testament. The law of Moses promised that God will have mercy on who He chooses. Jesus is that prom...
2023-05-1220 minScripture FirstCan You Prove You're Forgiven? | John 14:15-21 with Lars OlsonJesus tells His disciples He is going to leave them and they being to panic. In today's lectionary text: Luther House of Study's, Lars Olson, explains how Jesus responds to His disciples—and to us—by promising to give them another Advocate. Lars teaches us in order for Jesus to be with us forever, He first has to leave us. The Advocate is the Holy Spirit, who abides with us and in us, forever. Jesus is the truth and the Advocate is the Spirit of truth, using Jesus' Word to deliver the promise of faith and life everlasting. Adam, Kiri...
2023-05-0826 minScripture FirstThe Opposite of Fear | John 14:1-14 with Nick HopmanJesus opens this week's lectionary text by saying, "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me." Adam, Kiri, and Mason ask Luther House of Study's Nick Hopman: what does it actually mean to believe in something? What is belief? What does it mean to believe in God and Jesus? Can you believe in one but not the other? We also get this whopper of a verse in this week's text: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Nick explains what it...
2023-05-0133 minScripture FirstOh, to Be a Sheep | John 10:1-10 with Dr. Chris CroghanJesus tells the Pharisees a parable about sheep, the shepherd, a thief and a bandit. All to lift up your election. Listen closely as Mason reads the passage: the sheep hear the shepherd's voice. He calls them by name. Whoever enters by me will be saved. Dr. Chris Croghan explains how your election is black and white, and—though it may feel exclusive—Jesus calling your name is the very thing that gives you life. We also discuss: who are the thief and bandit? Are the shepherd and gatekeeper different? What does it mean to have life abundantly? ...
2023-04-2425 minScripture FirstOn the Road | Luke 24:13-35 with Sarah StensonAfter hearing about the empty tomb, two men are on the road to Emmaus, overwhelmed having witnessed Jesus' death and hearing about his resurrection. Only to have the resurrected Jesus chase them down and explain the entirety of scripture to them. The plot twist? They didn't recognize it was Jesus. Sarah Stenson joins Adam, Kiri, and Mason to explain why this is her favorite post-resurrection story and what Jesus chasing down these two men means for you and me today. SING TO THE LORDTo understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran c...
2023-04-1730 minScripture FirstI Know You As My Savior | John 20:19-31 with Lars OlsonThe same day Mary discovered the empty tomb, the disciples are locked in a room, afraid of the Jews. The resurrected Jesus appears and what does He say to them? "Peace be with you." Lars Olson joins Adam, Kiri, and Mason to discuss how important it is that Jesus delivers peace to His disciples—and to us—through His Word. Lars also explains the significance of Jesus giving the disciples the Holy Spirit and what forgiving and retaining sins actually means. Lastly, we discuss Thomas' role in this story and how it's not so much that he's doubting and more...
2023-04-1030 minScripture FirstLeaving Death Behind | Matthew 28:1-10 with Dr. Chris CroghanThe two Marys watched who they believed to be the Messiah, die. Saviors aren't supposed to die. As you'll hear Dr. Chris Croghan teach Adam, Kiri, and Mason in our Easter episode, Easter is crazy. We watched our sins kill Jesus. Yet an apocalyptic event happened that ended the world as we know it. Jesus is raised and death does not have the final word over us. No matter how many times you've heard the gospel, it's an incredible story. Christ has risen, alleluia!SING TO THE LORDListen to Luther House of...
2023-04-0329 minScripture FirstThe City Is in Turmoil | Matthew 21:1-11 with Lars OlsonThe Triumphal Entry...yet, in a single week, Jesus is killed. How did we go from cheering hosanna to "Crucify him!"? Lars Olson joins Kiri and Mason to discuss the lectionary text for Palm Sunday. In today's conversation, we discuss what does it mean for something to be prophesied—like Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey? Lars also teaches us the translation for hosanna means "save us," and how accurate that actually is. Like the crowds, we think we have the Messiah we want. Instead, Jesus is the Messiah we're given—and his throne is the cross. ...
2023-03-2727 minScripture FirstWhen You Die, You Live | John 11:1-45 with Sarah StensonJesus has been performing increasingly more impactful miracles on His way to Jerusalem. Today, we're discussing the biggest of them all: the resurrection of Lazarus. Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha both confess or confront Jesus. Luther House of Study's Sarah Stenson breaks down what we can learn from Jesus' response to them. Finally, when Jesus arrives at Lazarus' tomb, he says, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" Jesus shows these people the glory of God in a stinking dead man. At the end of the day, God's glory isn't...
2023-03-2038 minScripture FirstHoly Spit | John 9:1-41 with Nick HopmanA man was born blind. Jesus gives him sight. Everyone is upset when Jesus is merciful. No one believes the formerly blind man that he can now see. The Pharisees demand to know how he was given sight. His parents pass the buck. Nick Hopman teaches us that miracles aren't the gospel. They don't forgive your sin and give you eternal life. They do, however, show us who Jesus is: the one to get the gospel from. Just like Jesus did for the blind man in this week's lectionary text: Jesus' word gave him faith and it's doing the...
2023-03-1337 minScripture FirstHunting for Sinners | John 4:5-42 with Dr. Chris CroghanJesus meets a Samaritan woman at the well at noon. What happens next completely changes her life forever. Luther House of Study's Dr. Chris Croghan sits down with Kiri Haugen and Mason Van Essen to discuss the significance the time of day plays in this story. When you hear the passage, pay attention to Jesus' responses to the woman. It may sound harsh, but—as you'll hear Dr. Croghan teach—you need to be named a sinner in order for the promise of forgiveness to take hold. What's completely unexpected to the woman focused on living under the law, is t...
2023-03-0628 minScripture FirstHow God Kills Death | John 3:1-17 with Lars OlsonJohn 3:16. From football fields to inspirational posters, many consider it to be the Gospel in a nutshell. What's often overlooked is the context around the verse and why Jesus said those famous words, "For God so loved the world..."Luther House of Study's Lars Olson sits down with Adam Guthmiller and Mason Van Essen to talk about why the Nicodemus is coming to Jesus under the cover of darkness, what being born from above or born again means, and how God's love isn't some lovey dovey kind of love. God's love is a fierce love. H...
2023-02-2729 minScripture FirstSatan's Power (or Lack Thereof) | Matthew 4:1-11 with Sarah StensonThis week, Adam Guthmiller and Mason Van Essen are joined by Sarah Stenson to discuss this week's lectionary Gospel text: the Temptation of Jesus. Immediately after His baptism, the Holy Spirit drives Jesus into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. Sarah breaks down the ways Satan tempts Jesus—turning stones to bread, throwing himself off of the temple, and ruling all the kingdoms of the world—and what we can learn from Jesus' responses. In this week's conversation, we also zoom out to ask:Who is Satan?What power does the devil have? ...
2023-02-2031 minScripture FirstBe Home By 11 | Matthew 4:12-23 with Dr. Chris CroghanFollowing His baptism and temptation, Jesus continues to show us how God is constantly using unexpected people and ways to bring about His Word: the shepherds, John the Baptist, the region of Galilee, and—in today's text—the fishermen. When we all expect the Messiah to deliver a more perfect law, Jesus delivers the opposite: forgiveness. Then Dr. Chris Croghan explains the verse Martin Luther used to kickstart the Reformation: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." Spoiler alert: to be repented is a passive act. Adam...
2023-01-1625 minScripture FirstThis is My Son, the Beloved | Matthew 3:13-17 with Lars OlsonIn this week's lectionary text, Jesus is seeking out John to be baptized, and John would have prevented him saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” before having the heavens opened to Jesus and the Spirit descending like a dove. Adam, Kiri, and I ask Lars Olson:What is baptism?Why do we need to be baptized?And why does Jesus need to be baptized, too? Lars teaches us that Jesus is baptized, not because He needs to be, but FOR US. So that we can be found in Him...
2023-01-0223 min
Sing to the LordIntroducing: Sing to the Lord"Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." -Martin Luther. Luther House of Study's Mason Van Essen and Lars Olson sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to introduce Sing to the Lord—LHOS' podcast to understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church. Each week, Zachary, Lars, and Mason will discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel.
2022-12-3110 min
Scripture FirstIntroducing: Sing to the Lord"Next to the word of God, the art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." -Martin Luther. Luther House of Study's Mason Van Essen and Lars Olson sit down with Zachary Brockhoff to introduce Sing to the Lord—LHOS' podcast to understand the importance of hymnody in the Lutheran church. Each week, Zachary, Lars, and Mason will discuss the lectionary's hymns, their meaning and history, and how the music preaches the Gospel. Subscribe to the Sing to the Lord podcast to hear the weekly conversation!Su...
2022-12-3110 minScripture FirstWhat Is Advent? | Matthew 24:36-44 with Dr. Chris CroghanIt's the first Sunday of Advent and we hear a text about how no one knows what day when our Lord is coming, but we're supposed to keep awake and be ready. Dr. Chris Croghan joins Adam Guthmiller, Kiri Haugen and Mason Van Essen to explain that Advent isn't a time of preparation like many of us mistake it to be. Instead, it's a celebration of what Jesus already did for us on the cross, in His resurrection, at our baptism, and in sermons. Jesus' Word—God's kingdom—breaks in on us and ends the law's...
2022-11-2120 minScripture FirstEarthquakes, Plagues & Wars—Oh My! | Luke 21:5-19 with Sarah StensonJesus tells his apostles that the temple—the opulent landmark of the day—is going to be destroyed and natural disasters, plagues and wars are coming their way. Oh, and they will be hated because of Jesus' name. Hearing this, it can be jarring hearing that this is the Gospel of our Lord. Sarah Stenson joins Adam Guthmiller, Kiri Haugen, and Mason Van Essen to discuss how a text like this can come across as threats in the law or as promises in the gospel. Why will we be hated because of Jesus? Because He treats...
2022-11-0729 minScripture FirstThe 12 Days of Christmas | Luke 3:15-22 with Sarah StensonThe Festival of Epiphany, the 12 days of Christmas, and the full power of God on display. That's what Luther House of Study's co-director, Sarah Stenson, discusses with Kiri Haugen and Mason Van Essen as they break down Luke chapter 3 verses 15 through 22. In this week's conversation, Sarah teaches us the history of epiphany including the origins of the 12 days of Christmas . Then they talk about John the Baptist's ministry centering on telling us that Jesus is not only here, but he's here for you. Lastly, and most importantly, they talk about the incredible moment where the full power o...
2022-01-0328 minScripture FirstScripture First TrailerThree millennials sit down with Lutheran theologians to understand how scripture is working in our lives. God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, sin, faith, forgiveness, Luther, and more are on the table as Mason Van Essen, Kiri Jacobsen, and Adam Guthmiller discuss each week's upcoming lectionary Bible passage with Luther House of Study's theologians to hear the context in and around scripture before it's preached in church. Support the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate
2019-08-2501 min