We haven't nailed down Season 9 yet, so here's us taking random news stories and making them into sermon illustrations.

In the season finale of Cross-Checking, Ben and Josh explore the theme of "To God Alone Be the Glory," diving into how this principle shapes Lutheran identity and practice. They discuss the challenges of avoiding self-glorification in faith communities and the importance of redirecting praise to God. With humor and insight, they reflect on the balance between striving for excellence and maintaining humility. Join them for a thoughtful conclusion to season eight, filled with engaging discussions and a call to serve with integrity and purpose.

Join Ben and Josh as they delve into the essence of service within the Christian community. From exploring the parable of the Good Samaritan to discussing the importance of local service, they offer insights into how serving others can be both a personal and communal act of faith. Whether you're a seasoned churchgoer or new to the conversation, this episode invites you to reflect on who your neighbor is and how you can make a meaningful impact in your community.

In this episode of "Cross Checking," Josh and Ben delve into the theme of stubbornness within Lutheran identity. They explore the historical and theological roots of this trait, discussing its benefits and potential pitfalls. Through engaging anecdotes and thoughtful dialogue, they examine how being steadfast can be both a strength and a challenge in faith and community life.

Join hosts Josh and Ben as they explore the central role of worship in Lutheran identity. Delve into discussions about the significance of corporate worship, the balance between tradition and contemporary practices, and how everyday actions can reflect a worshipful life. They challenge listeners to consider what truly centers their lives and how worship can be a transformative part of their faith journey.

In this episode Josh and Ben dive into the heart of Lutheran identity, exploring the significance of confessional theology and its impact on modern faith practices.

In this episode of Cross Checking, Ben and Josh dive into the complex relationship between politics and the church. They explore how Lutheran identity intersects with political engagement, discussing the characteristically nuanced positions Lutherans often take. With humor and insight, they challenge listeners to consider whether their faith informs their politics or vice versa, emphasizing the importance of putting faith first. Join them for a thoughtful conversation that navigates the middle ground in today's polarized political landscape.

In this episode of "Cross-checking," Ben and Josh dive into the world of facial hair and its surprising connections to church leadership and identity. From playoff beards to the historical significance of Lutheran pastors' facial hair, they explore how appearance can influence perception and leadership in the church.