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Thinking Fellows

1517 Podcasts
Christianity
Lutheran Theology
Three Estates
Christian Civilization
C.S. Lewis
Christian Values
Vocation
Christmas
Postmodernism
Democracy
Hierarchy
Rod Rosenbladt
Islam
Theology
Apologetics
1517
December 25th
Pagan Traditions
God
Law and Gospel Distinction

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

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes502Founded10 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
ChristianitySociety & CulturePhilosophyReligion & Spirituality

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Latest Episodes

Did Jesus, in his ministry and preaching, ever claim to be God? Many anti-Christian voices today promote the false idea that Jesus neither claimed divinity nor sought to convince his followers of it. This video offers a clear, accessible overview of ... more

YouTube

Scott and Caleb are joined by Magnus Persson to talk about what it means to be confessional. Magnus discusses the importance of the Lutheran Confessions and how the church is called to be both evangelical and catholic in its mission. A confessional c... more

YouTube

The Thinking Fellows discuss various projects, essays, and books they have been working on. The connecting theme is how to proclaim and teach the Gospel in a post-Christian society: comforting and sustaining the members of the Church while announcing... more

The Thinking Fellows list and discuss reasons to embrace Lutheranism in 2026. The hosts take turns outlining the compelling distinctives of the Lutheran confession of faith, from the Christ-centered nature of Lutheran theology to the shape and conten... more

YouTube

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Recent Guests

Magnus Persson
Guest from Sweden discussing the Evangeliska Fusterlandstiftelsen (EFS) movement within the Church of Sweden
Evangeliska Fusterlandstiftelsen (EFS)
Episode: Confessional, Evangelical, and Catholic with Magnus Persson
Chad Bird
Scholar in residence at 1517.org and cohost of 40 Minutes in the Old Testament
1517.org
Episode: Are There Hidden Secrets in the Old Testament? Featuring Chad Bird
Dr. Steve Mueller
Vice President and Chief Mission Officer at Concordia University Irvine
Concordia University Irvine
Episode: Why Do Christians Sing Hymns? | Dr. Steve Mueller, Concordia University Irvine
Todd Hains
Associate Publisher of Acquisitions and Development at Lexham Press
Lexham Press
Episode: Martin Luther And The Rule Of Faith
Wesley Huff
Christian apologist and guest on Joe Rogan's podcast
Episode: Lutherans React to Wesley Huff's Joe Rogan Appearance
Amy Mantravadi
Author and contributor at 1517
1517 Publishing
Episode: Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation
Magnus Person
Ordained pastor in the Church of Sweden involved in a renewal movement
Church of Sweden
Episode: Is the Church Dying? (Live at HWSS)
Mike Horton
Editor-in-chief of Modern Reformation; prominent theologian and author focusing on apologetics.
Sola Media
Episode: The Myth of Spiritual But Not Religious
Jennifer Roback Morse
Founder and president of The Ruth Institute, author of 'The Sexual State'
The Ruth Institute
Episode: The Sexual Revolution and Its Consequences

Hosts

Caleb Keith
Host of The Thinking Fellows and related podcast initiatives; frequently contributes doctrinal insight and leadership in discussions.
Scott Keith
Co-host with a strong emphasis on theological analysis and historical context within Lutheran thought.
Adam Francisco
Co-host known for clear, engaging explanations of doctrinal topics and apologetics from a confessional Lutheran stance.
Bruce Hilman
Host contributing theological insight and practical perspectives on church life and doctrine.

Reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars from 1.1k ratings
  • A Podcast good for the swoll

    This is one of my go to podcasts to listen to while I get swoll in the gym. Down to earth discussion and humor on topics of the faith.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    PBCisco
    United Statesa month ago
  • One of my “go-to” Podcasts

    I’m a grew-up-Pentecostal-became-Presbyterian-in-college Christian, but I love this podcast. I’ve learned a lot about Lutheran theology and practice, and I always find these conversations challenging and enriching. This podcast is not just for Lutherans. In fact, I think I benefit so much from it, because I am not Lutheran. It challenges me to really consider my positions where we differ, and it strengthens my resolve where we agree. Thanks to Caleb, Scott, Adam, and Bruce for these regular epis... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ecparker
    United States9 months ago
  • Salt of the earth

    3 old salts that haven't lost their saltiness. Could use a little pepper though. They're like 3 quarks spinning the same direction or 3 blonde waitresses at the truck stop. Every baseball player knows that a good coach will sometimes take him back to the basics. These fellows consistently plant their back foot on the cross of Christ and the empty tomb. Solid scriptural teaching illuminates both historical and modern Christian teachers. No bells or whistles but if you want Rock solid Theology the... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    @mountainbadger
    United States10 months ago
  • Lutheran Podcasting for all to Enjoy

    This is a really approachable show. They come from a confessional Lutheran perspective but the conversations are enjoyable for all. The new series on a Lutheran identity crisis is especially well received.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    The Ghost in The Machine
    United Statesa year ago
  • They’re addicted to maga politics

    Every time anymore that I give these guys a chance, I regret it. I thought baptism would be a safe topic as others I have specifically avoided based on the title. But no, once again they had to out of nowhere dive into their misinformed maga politics that they so love. Typical Missouri Synod anymore it seems. Why can’t they put their politics aside for a simple Gospel centered podcast? Please don’t become like Issues Etc. There are many great shows on 1517 but this is not one of them. I will no... more

    Apple Podcasts
    1
    BjornEinarsson
    United Statesa year ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

The hosts are described as intelligent and well-spoken, though a minority feel the format could push into deeper discussion or isolate certain audience segments.
Some reviews note moments where politics or broader cultural commentary feel out of scope or polarizing for some listeners, but many appreciate the clarity and rigor of the discussions.
Listeners praise the show for thoughtful, high-level theology presented in an accessible way, with strong Lutheran perspective and practical application.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

A Reasoned Defense of the Faith
Q: What do you say to people to make them take Christianity more seriously?
You should take them to the resurrection, as it's a historical event that carries significant consequences for belief and behavior.
A Reasoned Defense of the Faith
Q: What is positive apologetics, and how does it address these common ways of addressing apologetics?
Positive apologetics is a persuasive approach that focuses on providing a reason for the hope within, contrasting with negative apologetics which critiques other views. It builds on a foundation of gospel proclamation.
Identifying The Antichrist
Q: Do Christians need to fear the Antichrist?
While the ultimate answer is no due to the promises of Christ, there is a practical side to be alert against evil that can cause real harm.
Has Lutheranism Failed?
Q: How has the church failed?
The church has failed in ways that hamper its mission, particularly in areas such as the lack of recognition and engagement in culture.
Has Lutheranism Failed?
Q: What is the goal of the church?
The goal of the church is to serve saints through the proclamation of the gospel and administration of sacraments.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Thinking Fellows

What is Thinking Fellows about and what kind of topics does it cover?

A thoughtful, theology-forward show that pairs rigorous Lutheran-informed discussions with accessible, lay-friendly dialogue. Across recent episodes, hosts explore Reformational themes like law and gospel, church history, apologetics, and contemporary Christian ethics, often tying ideas to everyday life, education, and family. The format balances serious doctrinal debate with practical applications, inviting listeners to consider how faith informs worship, parenting, public life, and culture. A standout trait is consistently clear articulation from a regular quartet of hosts who bring complementary perspectives, making complex topics approachable without sacrificing intellectual depth. The show's niche focus on confessional Lutheran perspec... more

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Which podcasts are similar to Thinking Fellows?

These podcasts share a similar audience with Thinking Fellows:

1. 30 Minutes In The New Testament
2. Christian History Almanac
3. 40 Minutes In The Old Testament
4. Issues, Etc.
5. White Horse Inn

How many episodes of Thinking Fellows are there?

Thinking Fellows launched 10 years ago and published 502 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact Thinking Fellows?

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What guests have appeared on Thinking Fellows?

Recent guests on Thinking Fellows include:

1. Magnus Persson
2. Chad Bird
3. Dr. Steve Mueller
4. Todd Hains
5. Wesley Huff
6. Amy Mantravadi
7. Magnus Person
8. Mike Horton

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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