Issues, Etc.

Terry Mattingly of Rational Sheep Rational Sheep Pop Goes Religion: Faith in Popular Culture GetReligion.orgThe post Media Coverage of the Arrest of Journalist Don Lemon – Terry Mattingly, 2/4/26 (0351) first appeared on Issues, Etc..

Dr. Lucas Woodford, president of the Minnesota South District of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and co-author of The Culture of God’s Word, discusses standing on Scripture rather than chasing cultural relevance. He explores Acts as a mission model, the church as a transcendent community, vocation-driven influence in society, worship and catechesis as soil for growth, and how to live counterculturally in a post-Christian age.

Dr. Adam Francisco, director of academics and scholar-in-residence and author of A Reasoned Defense of the Faith, surveys two millennia of apologetics and why Scripture’s authority matters. He traces Luther’s sola scriptura, contrasts Christian and Islamic epistemologies, and focuses on historical arguments about Jesus’ identity and the reliability of revelation.

Dr. Jordan Cooper, executive director of Just and Sinner and professor of systematic theology, offers a brisk critique of reducing complex doctrine to catchy lines. He examines why slogans spread, how they warp preaching, and historical roots of reductionism. Short, sharp takes on sola scriptura, sola fide, theologian of the cross, and the limits of pithy theology.

Heath Curtis, pastor and LCMS stewardship coordinator who writes pastoral resources, offers lectionary exposition and theological reflection. He unpacks Scripture Alone, the power of God’s Word, daily prayer and Scripture discipline. Topics include Psalm reflections, Isaiah’s promise, Paul’s weakness, Hebrews’ piercing Word, the parable of the sower, and practical steps to prioritize Scripture each day.

Dr. Joel Biermann, professor of systematic theology at Concordia Seminary and author on work, rest, and leisure. He contrasts modern leisure as self-centered inactivity with classical contemplation as highest human activity. He traces medieval and Reformation debates about contemplation, explores Sabbath as weekly rhythm that integrates vocation and delight, and warns against phone distraction while urging joyful, God-centered leisure.

Dr. Michael New, a political scientist at Catholic University and scholar at the Charlotte Lozier Institute, discusses a new Knights of Columbus/Marist poll. He highlights public views on taxpayer funding, conscience protections, and in-person safeguards for chemical abortion. He also traces FDA policy changes and debates around telehealth abortion risks.

Tim Goeglein, senior executive at Focus on the Family and former White House official, outlines why family formation matters for societal health. He discusses Theodore Roosevelt’s view on state welfare relying on strong families. Short takes cover cultural pressures to delay marriage, evidence favoring earlier unions, how churches can include singles, and policy ideas to support family formation.

Pr. Heath Curtis, LCMS pastor, district president and author, reflects on the Purification of Mary and the Presentation of Jesus. He ties Candlemas and the 40-day law to themes of light and obedience. Short segments explore Simeon’s song, Old Testament types, temple imagery, and why Jesus’ humble presentation matters for worship and faith.

Dr. Ken Schurb of the Central Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod The post Martin Luther’s Large Catechism, Part 4 – Dr. Ken Schurb, 1/29/26 (0294) first appeared on Issues, Etc..