The Best of 1517 in 2024

A look back at some of our most memorable content from the year

In 2024, 1517's content continued to grow and expand. Today, we're taking a look back at some of our favorite podcast episodes, articles and series, and conference talks. Below is a list of some of the best of the best for 2024.

Podcasts:

Best Introduction to Christian (and Lutheran) Doctrine from a Biblical Perspective

30 Minutes in the New Testament Episodes 336-343

Want to know exactly how to understand law and gospel? Why Lutherans baptize babies? Or what the Bible has to say about the Lord’s Supper? We are always asked for good starting places when it comes to Christianity and specifically, the Lutheran faith, and this series is just that. After successfully making their way from Matthew through Revelation in over 300 episodes, hosts Erick Sorensen and Daniel Emery Price took a step back from exegesis to present a handful of important Christian doctrines. In these episodes Price and Sorensen provide insightful and accessible commentary, grounding their discussions in biblical texts and historical context.

Most Surprising Podcast Series

40 Minutes in the Old Testament on the Song of Solomon, Episodes 431-441

Not only do we think listeners will be pleasantly surprised by 40 Minutes in the Old Testament’s recent episodes on Song of Solomon, hosts Chad Bird and Daniel Emery Price found themselves surprised as well. Throughout these episodes, Bird and Price offer a Christological interpretation of the Song of Solomon, viewing the intimate relationship between the bride and groom as a representation of Christ's love for the church, and therefore a love for you. Their analysis provides listeners with a deeper understanding of the text's rich symbolism and its application to the believer's relationship with Christ.

Best Interview on Current Culture

Thinking Fellows Podcast: The Myth of Spiritual But Not Religious

The Thinking Fellows welcomed Mike Horton to discuss his newest book, Shaman and Sage: The Roots of Spiritual But Not Religious. Horton argues that we are not heading into an age of disbelief, but rather, an age of paganism filled with all sorts of pagan beliefs. The conversation delves into the historical underpinnings of the "spiritual but not religious" mindset, tracing its origins to Gnostic traditions that emphasize personal spiritual knowledge over established religious doctrines. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of grounding spirituality within the context of religious community and doctrine, cautioning against the allure of a purely individualized faith experience.

Best Interview on Deconstruction and Staying Rooted in Faith

Outside Ourselves: American and Charismatic Christianity with Andy Squyres

Host Kelsi Klembara interviewed singer songwriter Andy Squyres about his theological background and his commitment to Charismatic Christianity. The conversation explores the advantages and challenges of the Charismatic movement, the impact of deconstruction on faith, Kelsi and Andy’s perspectives on the future of Christianity in America. Andy has the amazing ability to offer critiques of his tradition, while remaining resolute on staying faithfully planted to the tradition he finds himself in.

Best Navigation of the Church in a Messy World

Faith and Reason Exchange: Does the church owe the world an apology?

In this live recording from the HWSS podcasting pre-conference, hosts Adam Francisco and David Andersen explore instances where the Church's actions have led to harm or controversy, examining whether apologies are warranted. They discuss the Church's mission, arguing this mission is not about public relations but about proclaiming the gospel. The conversation also addresses modern scenarios where the Church's stance or actions have been questioned, highlighting the role of repentance and reconciliation in these instances.

Best Exploration of Faith’s Role in Public Life

Christian History Almanac: The CHA Weekend Edition Presents: Christianity in the Public Square

CHA host, Dan van Voorhis does what he does best in this show by bridging historic facts with contemporary takeaways. In this 30 min episode, van Voorhis examines how Christian thought has shaped societal values, laws, and cultural norms. The discussion also addresses challenges and opportunities faced by Christians when engaging in public debates and policy-making.

Best Case for Christ’s Finished Work

Banned Books Podcast: Francis Schaeffer - The Centrality of Death

In this episode, hosts Donovan Riley and Christopher Gillespie discuss Francis Schaeffer’s work, True Spirituality, and delve into themes of death, resurrection, and the Christian life. By addressing contemporary challenges like corporatism, Christian nationalism, and self-sacrificial love, the hosts offer an insightful critique of modern cultural and political ideologies and caution against seeking salvation apart from Christ, the Lamb of God. The episode’s emphasis on trusting in Christ’s finished work and avoiding distractions from worldly attachments will encourage listeners to find confidence in Christ’s death and resurrection alone.

Best Perspective on the Importance (and Difficulties) of the Pastoral Office

Thinking Fellows Podcast: On the Priesthood St. John Chrysostom

In this episode of the Thinking Fellows podcast, the hosts initiate a series exploring significant works in Christian thought by discussing St. John Chrysostom's "On the Priesthood." Bruce Hillman leads the conversation, examining Chrysostom's perspectives on the responsibilities and spiritual significance of the priesthood within the early Christian church and then diving into the importance and relevance of John Chrysostom's work to today's pastors. Hillman argues that reading Chrysostom’s work dispels the false belief that being a pastor was easier in ancient Christianity or when the culture was Christian. Pastoring has always been hard, and listeners can learn a lot about the weight of the office by reading this book.

Most Memorable Conference Talks:

Magnus Persson on Church in a Secular World: Magnus Persson shares some of his experience pastoring in the most secular country in the world, Sweden, and encourages listeners that God’s plan and promises for the church remain secure, no matter what type of world we are up against.

Nicholas Hopman on the Doctrine on Which the Church Stands or Falls: One of the clearest articulations of the doctrine of justification we’ve heard. You may want to listen to this one more than once.