Do Christians really have free will when it comes to faith? In this episode of 2414, “Talking About Your Faith: Free Will,” warm humor and playful banter give way to a thoughtful, honest conversation about one of Christianity’s most challenging and often misunderstood questions.

The episode begins lightheartedly with highs and lows, family stories, and a spirited round of Outburst, before turning toward a deeper theological discussion rooted in Scripture and Lutheran teaching. From hiking mishaps and board game disasters to adoption analogies and the “house of salvation,” Pastor Dan and Shane explore what the Bible says about human will, sin, and grace.

Framed by Luther’s teaching on the bondage of the will, the conversation carefully distinguishes between everyday choices and humanity’s spiritual inability before God. Rather than centering salvation on human decision-making, this episode points listeners toward repentance, trust, and the comfort that salvation is God’s work from beginning to end.

In this episode, we discuss:

What Christians mean by “free will”

The difference between earthly freedom and spiritual inability

Why defining theological terms matters

Luther’s Bondage of the Will and the Formula of Concord

Why decision-centered faith leads to pride or despair

How law and gospel shape our understanding of salvation

Why this doctrine, though uncomfortable, brings real comfort

Who this episode is for:

✔ Christians wrestling with questions about choice and belief
✔ Listeners curious about Lutheran theology
✔ Those seeking deeper, honest faith conversations
✔ Anyone wanting to understand grace more clearly

This episode doesn’t offer easy answers—but it does offer clarity, humility, and hope, pointing listeners back to Christ and the grace that saves sinners.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!

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What is sin — and why does it matter, especially as we approach Christmas? In this episode of 2414, we continue the conversation from last week by addressing one of the most foundational (and often misunderstood) questions of the Christian faith.

As the Church prepares to celebrate the birth of Christ, we take time to talk honestly about sin: what it is, how it affects our relationship with God and one another, and why the reality of sin makes the incarnation not just meaningful, but necessary. This conversation helps set the stage for Christmas by pointing to why Christ came in the first place.

In this episode we discuss:

What sin is from a biblical and Lutheran perspective

Common misunderstandings about sin in modern Christianity

Why talking about sin still matters today

How sin helps us understand the purpose of Christmas

Why Christ’s coming is good news for sinners

Who this episode is for:

✔ Christians seeking clarity on core beliefs
✔ Those wanting deeper faith conversations
✔ Listeners preparing spiritually for Christmas
✔ Anyone wrestling with guilt, grace, and redemption

This episode invites honest reflection and points us toward the hope found in Christ alone — just in time for Christmas.

Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!

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Talking about your faith matters more than we realize. In this episode of 2414, we explore why every Christian needs someone they can openly discuss their faith, doubts, and spiritual life with — and how honest conversation shapes discipleship. We also take a look at the LCMS colloquy process and what it means to pursue becoming a rostered Director of Parish Music (DPM).

Whether you're navigating your own faith journey, curious about LCMS colloquy, or simply longing for deeper spiritual conversations, this episode offers practical insights, encouragement, and real-world reflections.

In this episode we discuss:

• Why faith conversations are essential for discipleship
• How talking about your beliefs strengthens spiritual growth
• What the LCMS colloquy process is and why it exists
• Reflections on becoming a DPM in the LCMS
• How to find someone to talk about your faith with
• Practical steps for deeper Christian conversation

Who this episode is for:

✔ Christians longing for deeper spiritual dialogue
✔ Those exploring LCMS teaching or colloquy
✔ Church workers, worship leaders, and DPM students
✔ Anyone discerning a call to serve the Church

If you’re seeking a deeper walk of faith, wanting to understand LCMS colloquy, or hoping for more meaningful Christian conversations, this episode is for you.

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