In this week’s episode of Christendom and the World, we sit down with Grace Otten to hear the first part of her story — a candid look at her early years growing up Lutheran. From her childhood experiences with faith and family to the subtle shaping forces of church life, Grace shares how her understanding of spiritual authority began to take root. She also reflects on how she met her husband, and the role faith played in shaping their relationship from the very beginning. It’s a conversation about memory, formation, and the quiet ways influence takes hold.

In this week’s episode of Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus takes a hard look at the state of leadership in today’s church. As cultural narratives continue to reshape how people view authority, masculinity, and order, many Christians are left wondering: who is truly leading the flock? Pastor Preus unpacks the influence of the Red Pill movement, the feminization of church culture, and the growing reliance on emotional appeal and soft power within both liberal and evangelical circles. He explores the consequences of abandoning normative, biblical authority and considers why so many young men are turning to more “traditional” expressions of Christianity in search of structure and truth. Are churches forming faithful shepherds — or leaving space for wolves to enter unnoticed?

https://youtu.be/quZR6VSKMDw?si=XpsCA_tbJ9ENA72E

In this episode of Christendom and the Word, Pastor James Preus joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on Christian political engagement. We explore how a biblical understanding of natural law, civil duty, and conscience informs everything from our view of rights to our role in society. Is libertarianism compatible with a Christian worldview? What does Romans 13 really mean for believers today? Pastor Preus challenges us to think clearly, live faithfully, and obey for conscience’ sake—not just for political gain.

Whether you're wrestling with political philosophy, the limits of government authority, or simply trying to make sense of your Christian duty in a chaotic world, this conversation offers clarity rooted in Scripture and tradition.

*Audio Note: We’re aware of the audio issues in this week’s recording. We ran into some technical difficulties, but we’re working on it and will be back and sounding better next week.

This episode of Christendom and the World Pastor Andrew Preus talks with Rev. Dr. Daniel N. Harmelink, tracing his vocational journey from parish ministry in California to his current work at the Concordia Historical Institute in St. Louis. Pastor Harmelink reflects on the significance of preserving the history of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, particularly through times of crisis and change. The discussion explores the theological implications of church conventions, the authority of scripture, and the enduring relevance of law and gospel. With a focus on mission, identity, and faithful witness, this episode highlights the importance of deep theological engagement and the role of history in shaping the church’s present and future.

This week on Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus responds to the video "Catholic vs Protestant: Is Faith Greater Than Love?" by The Logos Project, which critiques our original episode on “Faith, Hope, and Love.” Pastor Preus delves deeper into the theological virtues, emphasizing love as the greatest virtue flowing from true faith. He contrasts Lutheran and Roman Catholic views on justification, clarifying the relationship between faith and works, and discussing the distinctions between fulfillment and satisfaction in the law. The episode also explores the mystical union with Christ, the certainty of salvation grounded in God's promises, and the role of good works as evidence of genuine faith. Additionally, Pastor Preus addresses the nuances of theological terminology and the importance of clarity in interdenominational dialogues.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7RSVUdq9I40

In this episode of Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus and Pastor Jim Wilshusen tackle recent debates over Christian nationalism in Lutheran circles. They discuss the growing conversation around Christendom, the role of the church in public life, and how Lutherans understand the relationship between church and state. From theological reflections to real-world implications, they explore what faithful political engagement looks like without compromising core doctrine. Whether you're deep in the debate or just curious, this episode offers a clear and thoughtful perspective.

In this episode of Christendom and with World,Brandt Klawitter shares his journey from the United States to Norway, where he now serves as a chaplain and educator. He discusses the spiritual landscape of Norway, the challenges of building a faith community, and the importance of understanding worship practices. The conversation delves into theological insights from Genesis, the tension between procreation and celibacy, and Luther's perspective on marriage and family. Klawitter emphasizes the role of procreation in Christian life and the practical implications of theology in mission work, offering encouragement to pastors and missionaries. The discussion concludes with reflections on legacy and faith in community.

In this episode of Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus sits down with his father, Pastor Rolf Preus, for a candid and personal conversation about their journey through Lutheranism, focusing on their transition from the Missouri Synod to the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS). Together, they explore the theological debates surrounding church authority, the doctrine of the ministry, and the broader implications of these disputes on their faith and church community. The discussion delves into the challenges of maintaining unity among Christians, the necessity of a biblical foundation for church governance, and the ways in which theological divisions shape personal and ecclesiastical life. Ultimately, the episode highlights the enduring importance of doctrinal clarity, faithful church practice, and the pursuit of true Christian unity grounded in Scripture.

In this episode of Christendom and the World, Pastor Andrew Preus sits down with his father, Pastor Rolf Preus, for a deep and personal conversation exploring the Seminex controversy, the theological legacy of the Preus family, and the broader historical struggles within the Missouri Synod. Together, they examine the historical and theological context surrounding the Seminex controversy, discussing key issues such as election, justification, and the role of faith. The conversation also addresses the influence of the anti-Missourian Brotherhood, the evolution of the Norwegian Synod, and the differing leadership approaches of Ralph Bohlmann and Robert Preus. In exploring these events, they reflect on the impact of theological disputes on church unity, the role of the seminary, and the personal struggles faced by key figures. Ultimately, the episode highlights the importance of objective justification, synodical identity, and maintaining theological integrity in the life of the church today.