Ben Haupt unpacks the challenges of pastoral formation, why decentralization matters for the future of the LCMS, and how Lutheran theology is deeply relevant for today’s culture. We dive deep on some of the pastoral challenges in the LCMS today and what can be done in the future. To learn more about the podcast or access the show notes, visit www.redletterpodcast.com.

   

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Thanks to this week’s sponsor: Child Beyond International (CBI), a ministry dear to my heart. Based in Guatemala, CBI transforms the lives of orphaned, abandoned, and abused children by offering a Christ-centered new beginning. A dedicated team of caregivers, doctors, and social workers provides round-the-clock care, faith lessons, and prayer. Children are later reunited with safe relatives or adopted into loving Guatemalan families, with ongoing support beyond their time at CBI.

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Resources mentioned in the episode

Pastoral Leadership Institute: plileadership.org

 

Acton Institute

 

Not Being There study (ATS) on online theological education

 

The Lutheran Confessions (Book of Concord)

 

Voices mentioned: C.F.W. Walther, Wilhelm Löhe, Friedrich Brunn, Jordan Peterson

 

Ben’s Podcast: Bitcoin Reformation Podcast

 

Red Letter Living resources

 

Voices of the LCMS VideosKey insights from the episode“I’ve only grown in appreciation for the Lutheran confessions and how they articulate what the Bible means. I’m actually pretty comfortable in my Lutheran clothes.” – Ben Haupt“I don’t think the main dissatisfaction is with the curriculum. The real challenge is that congregations feel like if they send their best and brightest to seminary, they might never get them back.” – Ben Haupt“Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. The more you centralize control, the worse it stinks. Decentralization is key for the church.” – Ben Haupt“Our Lutheran theology is so relevant because it meets people in the darkest pits of life. Christ climbs down into the pit to find us.” – Ben Haupt“The debate over online vs. residential misses the point. The Word itself forms people, whether face-to-face or through a letter like Paul to Timothy.” – Ben Haupt“Leadership, not theology, is often what makes or breaks ministries. Seminary should teach theology deeply, but leadership growth must continue in the parish.” – Ben Haupt“Instead of forming pastors for one rigid model, we should free pastors with deep theology so they can meet people in their local context.” – Ben Haupt“Please don’t coerce or cajole us with regulations. Lead with the Gospel. Lead with the Scriptures.” – Ben HauptBen Haupt’s Challenge of the Week

Engage in conversation. Start something—a podcast, a video, or a local group—that invites real dialogue. Don’t retreat. Lean into Scripture and confessions, and talk with those who see things differently.

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The post 105: Ben Haupt on the “Gold Standard” vs. New Paths in LCMS Pastoral Formation—Residential, SMP, Colloquy, and the Future of Training Pastors appeared first on Red Letter Living.