Care of Souls: Addiction - Identifying an Addict [1/5]

In Care of Souls, a special mini-series podcast from Luther House of Study, Lutheran pastors and theologians come together to explore the deeply personal and pastoral task of preaching to and caring for those struggling with life’s challenging situations: addiction, death, family disharmony, and more. Rooted in the theology of the cross and the Lutheran tradition of radical grace, this series offers both theological depth and practical guidance for pastors, church workers, and lay leaders. Across five episodes, the hosts tackle tough but essential questions on addiction—especially alcoholism: How does Lutheran theology speak uniquely to addiction?What does faithful preaching sound like when standing before someone enslaved by alcohol?How can the pastor offer both law and gospel without moralism or despair?What does pastoral care look like beyond the pulpit—in hospital rooms, AA meetings, or family interventions? With conversations, real-life stories, and reflections from the front lines of ministry, Care of Souls equips listeners to enter the broken places of addiction not with easy answers, but with the crucified and risen Christ. Because in the end, it’s not about fixing people—it’s about preaching the Gospel. Listen to Care of Souls wherever you listen to podcasts or on the Luther House website: Care of Souls - AddictionSupport the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at [email protected] or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate