In this episode of Echoes of Sunday, Pastor Steve and Pastor Dan continue the “Glimpses of Glory” series by exploring Jesus’ challenging call in Matthew 16–17 to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him, a call that flows directly from Peter’s bold confession and the surprising rebuke that follows. Together they unpack the narrative that moves from the messianic secret to the Transfiguration, showing how Jesus reveals His glory not only on the mountaintop but also through suffering, obedience, humility, and the way of the cross. Through an honest conversation about expository preaching, discipleship, pride, servanthood, and the paradoxes of the Gospel where the first become last and greatness is found in serving others, Dan and Steve help listeners see how these passages prepare our hearts for Lent, Holy Week, and Easter. This episode invites believers to wrestle with what it really means to follow Jesus, surrender self, set aside ego, and embrace the grace-filled and countercultural life He calls us into as we journey with Him from confession to glory.

In this episode of Echoes of Sunday, Dan and Pastor Steve dive deeply into Matthew 16–17, reflecting on Peter’s confession that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, and exploring how that unshakable truth becomes the foundation for the Church and for every believer’s life. Their conversation moves naturally from theology to real‑life ministry as they discuss the beauty of glimpsing Christ’s glory, the challenge of following Him through the valleys, and the tension pastors feel between wanting to steward their calling well and remembering that Christ alone builds His Church. With honesty and warmth, they open up about the emotional weight of shepherding people—the joy, the heartache, the doubts, and the deep privilege of walking with others through grief, storms, and seasons of uncertainty. Anchored by the powerful image of a lighthouse standing firm as waves crash around it, this episode reminds listeners that even when life feels overwhelming, our refuge is secure because Jesus, the Christ and Son of the living God, holds us fast.

Why do so many Christians feel awkward about sharing their faith, especially in traditions that once used the word Evangelical? In this conversational episode, Pastor Steve and members of the congregation explore the history behind the term, why many Lutherans tend to avoid conflict, and how simple, everyday encounters, like talking with someone at the dog park about the church comfort dog named Joy, can lead to natural spiritual conversations.

The group reflects on experiences from the 70s and 80s, the influence of large revival events, and why outreach can sometimes feel intrusive. Together, they offer down-to-earth ideas for sharing hope with gentleness and respect. They emphasize invitation instead of argument, using relationships and shared interests, and allowing small acts of kindness and prayer to naturally open doors.

What You Will Hear:

• How the word Evangelical originally related to Lutheran identity and how its meaning changed
• Common barriers like fear of offending others, discomfort with conflict, and hesitation about talking to strangers
• Why program-centered evangelism can feel uncomfortable today
• How shared experiences and relationships lead to better conversations
• Encouragement to trust God with the results while planting small seeds of hope

In this episode, Pastor Randy joins us to kick off The Gospel According to Angels. We unpack what Scripture actually says about angels — their purpose, their role in God’s story, and how they point us back to Christ. We tackle your submitted questions:

• Are angels created?
• Do new angels exist?
• Are they physical or spiritual?
• Do our loved ones become angels?
• What do angels do today?
• What’s the deal with spiritual warfare?
• Why don’t we talk more about angel encounters?

Along the way, Pastor Randy and Pastor Steve share personal stories, clear up common misconceptions, and remind us why angels matter, not as beings to chase after, but as messengers pointing us right back to Jesus.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s really happening behind the veil of the spiritual world, or what Scripture actually teaches about these mysterious messengers, this episode is a solid place to start.

In this episode of Echoes of Sunday, Pastor Steve Garrabrant sits down with Jason Phelps, Discipleship Director, for a deep dive into what it truly means to live fully alive in Christ. Building off the All Saints Day message, they unpack how discipleship isn’t just about learning, it’s about becoming.

Jason breaks down his simple but powerful formula, Character × Calling = Impact, and shares how growing in both our spiritual habits and personal calling draws us closer to the abundant life Jesus promises in John 10:10. From exploring the difference between justification and sanctification to developing daily rhythms of Bible engagement, accountability, and prayer, this episode unpacks what it looks like for ordinary believers to thrive in faith and help others do the same.

Whether you’re just beginning your discipleship journey or ready to take the next step, this conversation will inspire you to move from simply being alive to living fully alive in Christ’s grace.

In this episode, Pastor Dan Schepmann joins host Steve Garrabrant to wrap up Gloria Dei’s Giving Challenge series. Together, they dive into the story of Peter walking on water, exploring what it means to follow God’s call even when it leads straight into a storm.

Drawing from Malachi 3 and Matthew 14, they connect themes of obedience, generosity, and trust. Challenging listeners to move from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance. This honest, encouraging conversation reminds us that storms don’t mean failure; they’re part of faith.

Host Steve Garbrandt and Pastor Dan Schepmann dig into one of the most honest parts of the Giving Series — what actually keeps people from being generous. With over 170 real responses from the congregation, they talk through fear, scarcity, trust, and what it really means to believe that God will provide.

It’s a down-to-earth conversation about faith, money, and mindset — with plenty of practical takeaways, a few good laughs (yes, including “boat potatoes”), and a reminder that abundance isn’t about having more stuff, it’s about trusting more deeply.

In this first episode of Echoes of Sunday, Pastor Steve Garrabrant sits down with Pastor Dan Schepmann to dive deeper into the Sunday message on dating and Godly Relationships. Together, they tackle tough questions about cohabitation, purity, and what it means to pursue relationships rooted in Christ. Pastor Dan shares stories from his own family, practical wisdom for parents and singles alike, and reminds us that dating is more than a checklist — it’s an opportunity to live in the abundant life Jesus promises!

Whether you’re single, dating, married, or raising kids, this conversation offers encouragement, grace, and hope for building relationships that reflect God’s love.