Standing on Shoulders

In this episode of Standing on Shoulders, hosts Reverend Mark Kranz and Reverend Tysen Bibb begin an exploration of one of the most influential devotional works in Christian history: "The Imitation of Christ" by Thomas à Kempis. Moving from the philosophical depth of Augustine to the practical, gritty wisdom of the 15th-century Netherlands, the discussion focuses on Books 1 and 2 and the historical movement that birthed them. Questions of confessional integrity, theological clarity, and ecclesial life remain perennial concerns for the church — particularly in times of institutional strain and cultural fragmentation. How does a synod faithfully uphold its doctrinal commitments while preserving unity, order, and mutual accountability? What correctives do Scripture and theology provide when language, priorities, or practice begin to drift? These questions carry significant implications not only for governance and discipline, but for the church’s shared confession and common life. How we engage them will shape our life together, both now and in the years ahead. Come join us in Lincoln, Nebraska this June 16-17 as we seek to interact with these questions during our 2026 ACELC Conferece, "Walking Together: Next Steps." For more information, visit ACELC.net/wal Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas à Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. A podcast by the Association of Confessing Evangelical Lutheran Congregations.  Soli Deo Gloria!

Join Rev.'s Gaunt and Bibb as conclude their reading of Augustine's "Confessions." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com   Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. Soli Deo Gloria!  

Join Rev.'s Gaunt and Bibb as they begin their journey through Augustine's "Confessions." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com   Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. Soli Deo Gloria!  

Join Rev.'s Gaunt and Bibb as they begin their journey through Augustine's "Confessions." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com   Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. Soli Deo Gloria!  

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, Bibb, and special guest Rev. Jeffery Kuddes as they explore "The Confession of St. Patrick." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com   Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. Soli Deo Gloria!  

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they explore "The Confession of St. Patrick." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com   Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. Soli Deo Gloria!  

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they dive into "The Shepherd of Hermas." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com   Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. Soli Deo Gloria!  

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they dive into "The Shepherd of Hermas." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com   Season 2 Reading List: The Shepherd of Hermas The Confession of St. Patrick The Confessions, St. Augustine The Imitation of Christ, Thomas a Kempis The “Marriage Suite” of Martin Luther “A Sermon on the Estate of Marriage (1519),” LW 44:7-14 “The Estate of Marriage (1522),” LW 45:17-49 “On Marriage Matters (1530),” LW 46:265-320 Selections from The Examination of the Council of Trent, Martin Chemnitz The Magdeburg Confession Some of these works are available for free online, and we will post links to the suggested editions we will be reading. Others are available in print from multiple publishers. Just like your Bible, the best version is the one you read. However, we will let you know which versions we are reading and where they can be found. Soli Deo Gloria!  

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they dive into "The Shepherd of Hermas." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they talk about this year's ACELC conference regarding pastoral formation.  Find videos from the conference here: @HolyCrossCarlisle This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they respond to Adolf Köberle's "The Quest for Holiness." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they continue reading through Adolf Köberle's "The Quest for Holiness." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they continue reading through Adolf Köberle's "The Quest for Holiness." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they dive into Adolf Köberle's "The Quest for Holiness." This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, Bibb and special guest Rev. Dr. John Wohlrabe as they respond to C.F.W. Walther's Church and Office. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they respond to C.F.W. Walther's Church and Office. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they continue unpacking C.F.W. Walther's Church and Office. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they continue unpacking C.F.W. Walther's Church and Office. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join Rev.'s Kranz, Gaunt, and Bibb as they begin unpacking C.F.W. Walther's Church and Office . In this episode, the hosts begin with Walther's theses on the Church. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Greetings in Christ! We have a special guest on this episode, the Rev. Brent Kuhlman. There is no gilding the lily for this delightful discussion. You are encouraged to listen and enjoy. What Rev. Kuhlman shared with us is well worth your time.Also, we’re taking steps to improve the production value of our podcast. Please let us know on Substack or email us at [email protected]. As always, thank you for listening. The Lord bless you and keep you in His grace. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Welcome back listener! This is Part 3 of our series on Martin Luther's Confession Concerning Christ's Supper. On this episode, Pastors Gaunt, Kranz, and Bibb cover the following topics and more:* Introduction* Understanding Luther’s Structure and Arguments* Key texts on Holy Communion* Luther’s Last Will and Testament* Arguments Against Opponents’ Views* Exploring the Gospel of Luke* The Significance of the Words of Institution* The Nature of the Supper and Its Elements* The Continuity of the Supper* Theological Implications of the Supper* The Significance of the Two Cups* Understanding the Word of Institution* The Clarity of Holy Scripture* Translation Matters* Paul’s Argument in 1 Corinthians* The Connection Between Body and Blood* The Importance of Sacramental Reality* Luther’s Views on Unction and TraditionJoin the conversation by visiting us on Substack. Standing on Shoulders is an official podcast of the ACELC. You can contact us with questions and feedback at [email protected] Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

In this episode, Pastors Gaunt, Kranz, and Bibb continue their examination of Luther's great Confession Concerning Christ's Supper. Topics highlighted include:* Understanding the Debate: Luther vs. Zwingli* The Importance of Faith in the Sacrament* The Role of Tropes and Metaphors in Theology* Christ’s Presence: Spiritual vs. Physical* The Law of Identical Predication* The Analogy of Faith in Scripture* The Sacramental Union Explained* The Nature of Language and Metaphor* Concluding Thoughts on the SacramentGive us feedback at [email protected], the Standing on Shoulders Substack, or on the ACELC Facebook page. Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Welcome back to Standing on Shoulders! On this episode, we jump forward in time to the Reformation and Martin Luther's great Confession Concerning Christ's Supper. Here is a list of the topics in this episode:* Introduction and Background* Luther’s Purpose and Key Propositions* Addressing Unanswered Questions* The Importance of Clear Texts and Replacement Arguments* The Power of God’s Command in the Sacraments* Refuting Zwingli’s Argument of Aleosis* Understanding the Term “Aleosis”* Modes of Presence: Local and Definitive* Modes of Presence: Repletive and Divine* The Communication of Attributes* The True Presence of Christ in the Lord’s Supper* The Importance of Clear Words and Understanding Doctrine* Doctrine: A Matter of Faith and Salvation* Scripture Interprets Scripture* The Onus in on Opponents to Prove Their ArgumentsJoin the conversation! Listen in and send us a message at [email protected]. As always, thank you for listening! The Lord Jesus Christ bless you and keep you in His grace. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

On this episode, Rev. Gaunt and Rev. Kranz discuss some of the takeaways from the Catechetical Lectures of Cyril of Jerusalem. Here are some of topics covered in this episode.* The Steps of the Catechumenate* The Significance of Baptism and Post-Baptismal Catechesis* Balancing Doctrine and Lifelong Learning in the Church* Preaching as an Opportunity for Ongoing Catechesis* Catechesis as Formation* The Role of Sponsors and the Church Community* The Divine Service as a Catechetical Tool* The Importance of Awe and Reverence in Worship* Intentional and Thoughtful CatechesisNeedless to say, this is a rich text with much to discuss. Join in the conversation and talk back. We can be contacted at [email protected] or drop a note on Substack. Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Welcome back to Standing on Shoulders. On this episode, Pastor Gaunt and Pastor Kranz take up Cyril of Jerusalem's teaching on the Sacraments. Here is a sampling of the topics discussed:* Introduction to Cyril of Jerusalem’s Lectures on the Sacraments* Exploring Cyril’s Teachings on the Resurrection* Cyril’s Teachings on Baptism* The Debate on the Sacramental Nature of Chrismation* The Anointing with Oil and the Name “Christian”* The Importance of Clear Commands and Promises in Church Practices* The Lord’s Supper and the Bread and Body of Christ* Avoiding Idolatry and Keeping the Focus on Christ* Investing in Catechesis for Church Unity This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

We're back! This is part 2 of a 3-part series on the Catechetical Lectures of Cyril of Jerusalem. On this episode we take a closer look at Lecture XII On the words Incarnate, and Made Man. Join us in the conversation as we take up the following:* Reflections on the ACELC conference* Exploring Cyril of Jerusalem’s Catechetical Lectures* Understanding the Incarnation of Jesus Christ* The Significance of the Virgin Birth* Scriptural Proofs for the Incarnation* The Clarity of Cyril’s Argumentation* Understanding the Messianic Prophecies* The Role of Preaching in Catechesis* Avoiding the Pitfalls of Lutheran Categories* Preaching as a ConversationThank you for your patience! We are preparing more episodes and, as always, we would love to hear from you. Send us a message at [email protected] or right here on the Substack. We look forward to continuing the conversation. God’s peace in Christ Jesus, our Lord. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Part 1 of a 3-part series on the Catechetical Lectures of Cyril of Jerusalem. Join Pastors Gaunt, Kranz, and Bibb as they dig into the structure of St. Cyril's Catechetical Lectures. Topics include:• Conference Plug – 2024 ACELC Conference – “A Fraternal Conversation - The State of Our Synod”• The Significance of Close Reading and Engagement• The Catechumenate Process• Unpacking the Proto-Catechesis of Cyril of Jerusalem• The Responsibility of the Catechumen• The Divine Action of Baptism and the Dangers of Hypocrisy• The Unity and Purpose of Baptism• Using Baptism as a License to Sin• The Sacred Nature of Catechesis and Initiation into the Holy Things of God This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

“God is the Author and Creator of reality...of what is. To be baptized into Christ is to be more real, more fully human than you are apart from Him.” Though not a verbatim quote from the show, this is a sampling of the conversation into this episode. Join Rev.’s Gaunt, Kranz, and Bibb for a dive into St. Athanasius’ On the Incarnation.Send us feedback at [email protected] or comment on the Substack. Thank you for listening! We are almost to 1000 downloads! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

We're back! After a longer than anticipated Easter break, we have returned. On this episode, we unpack On the Incarnation by Athanasius of Alexandria. A fantastic, approachable, and yet theologically dense work that is well worth the time to read.Listener Note: You will notice we had some issues with the audio this time around. We do not talk on top of each other that much, it was just how the audio came out. However, everything is still clearly understandable. Please email us with questions and comments at [email protected]. It's great to be back! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Pastors Gaunt, Kranz, and Bibb are back with a response episode for On the Apostolic Preaching by St. Irenaeus.Topics include: Theological slogans and "bumper sticker theology"...what could possibly go wrong? Defining your terms. The real-life beauty of the liturgy. How does recapitulation impact us today and what does it have to do with the Divine Service? The rule of faith and the Christian life. Christ for you. All of this and more on this episode of SoS.P.S. - We are trying to improve the format of the podcast and trim it down. Let us know what you think! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

On this episode of Standing on Shoulders, Pastors Gaunt and Bibb discuss St. Irenaeus' work On the Apostolic Preaching.What is the Rule of Faith? What is Recapitulation? What did Irenaeus think about Adam's age in the Garden or the Nephilim of Genesis chapter 6? Tune in for all of this and more.Please post your questions or comments on the Substack or email us at [email protected]. Thanks for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Tune in for Part 2 of our discussion on 1 Clement with Pastor Broaddus. There is much to chew on in this Episode of Standing on Shoulders.Subjects include: The origin and authority of the Office of Holy Ministry, Unbiblical Removal of Pastors, Order in the Church, Christian Harmony/Love, Repentance, and the Efficacy of the Word of God.Thanks to Pastor Broaddus for joining us and thank you, dear listeners, for your time and support. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

This is Part 1 of our response episode to 1 Clement.  Joining us on the podcast is Rev. Daniel Broaddus, Pastor of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Edgerton, Ohio.  Pastor Broaddus is a candidate for a PhD in Theological Studies and has studied the Letter of 1 Clement very closely.  We hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording.  This conversation was a special treat.  Please send us your comments and questions at [email protected] or post a comment on Substack. Part 2 of our response episode to 1 Clement will be uploaded soon. Thank you for listening! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Join us as we dig into 1 Clement. When was this letter written? Who was Clement writing to and why? What are Clement's arguments and why does his letter still matter today? All this and more on this episode of Standing on Shoulders. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Welcome to our first response episode! We welcome your feedback.Whenever an episode is posted on a book, we want to hear from you. Join in the conversation! Send us your questions, comments, insights, or clarifications to [email protected] or post a comment below. We will do our best to include your feedback in the response episode. Thank you for listening! We couldn’t do this without you. God’s peace in Christ Jesus. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com

Reading good books. Having good conversations. This is what Standing on Shoulders is all about. In this podcast, three Lutheran pastors discuss great works of the Christian Church written by saints who have gone before us in the one true faith.Episode 1 - “Fathers of the Church.” Herman Sasse. (The Lonely Way Vol. II.)Pick up your book, pour yourself a favorite drink, and, if it suits you, secure your smoke of choice; for we have much to read and discuss. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit standingonshoulders.substack.com