Engaging Truth

What happens in worship is meant to shape the rest of our lives. In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom talks with Pastor Seth Davidson about how the Church gathers to receive God’s Word, forgiveness, grace, and the gifts of Jesus—and then carries those gifts into homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and relationships.

They discuss confession and absolution, the power of speaking the words “I forgive you,” and why Sunday worship should become rehearsal for everyday discipleship. This conversation encourages listeners to see themselves as the Church wherever they go and to bring the grace th...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom continues his conversation with Pastor Seth Davidson of St. John Lutheran Church in Athens, Texas, about what it means to welcome outsiders into the life of the Church. Seth shares his own journey from growing up outside the faith to discovering Jesus through ordinary Christians who kept showing up, made room for him, and helped him belong before he understood everything.

Together, Trey and Seth explore the power of authentic relationships, radical hospitality, and investing in people who may feel disconnected, uncertain, or out of place. This...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom talks with Pastor Seth Davidson of St. John Lutheran Church in Athens, Texas, about Jesus’ heart for outsiders and the power of serving people without expecting anything in return. Seth shares how simple acts of kindness, authentic relationships, and meeting tangible needs have opened doors for the Gospel in his church and community.

Through stories of church hurt, homelessness, disability, addiction, and unexpected connection, Trey and Seth explore what happens when Christians stop treating people like projects and begin seeing them as people Jesus loves. This conversation of...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom talks with David Schlecht, founder and CEO of Scripture in Motion, a nonprofit ministry creating word-for-word animated Scripture videos and Bible study resources.

David shares how God used his passion for animation, storytelling, and Scripture to create a ministry that helps churches, families, classrooms, and small groups engage deeply with God’s Word. Together, Trey and David explore vocation, the priesthood of all believers, and how everyday followers of Jesus can use their God-given gifts—whether in animation, teaching, engineering, parenting, or any other calling—to make Jesus...

In this powerful conversation, Pastor Trey Sansom and Pastor John Alwood continue the conversation as they explore one of the most distinctive gifts Christians bring into the world: forgiveness.

From personal stories of grace and restoration to Jesus’ commissioning of His disciples in John 20, they discuss how receiving Christ’s forgiveness changes everything—and how extending forgiveness to others becomes a powerful witness to the Gospel. Whether in families, friendships, marriages, or everyday conversations, forgiveness opens

doors that arguments never can. Discover why the simple words “I forgive you” may be among the most powerful words a Ch...

What happens when an entire culture forgets the Gospel? Pastor Trey Sansom sits down with Pastor John Alwood to discuss the challenge of re-evangelizing a post-Christian society.

Drawing from ministry in Southern California, John shares how many people today have little or no understanding of Christianity, church, or even the story of Jesus. Together they discuss barriers to faith, misconceptions about the Church, and why building authentic relationships is essential for reaching disconnected people.

This conversation will encourage listeners to see their own communities as mission fields and to embrace the opportunities God has already...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor Trey Sansom continues the conversation with Pastor Daniel Brummet of Oikos Church in Willis, TX, about what it means to “bring Jesus to people.”

As Oikos Church began as a network of life groups rather than a traditional Sunday-morning gathering, Daniel shares how prayer, God’s Word, relationships, and mission shape their approach to life together. The conversation also introduces the “Oikos map,” a simple tool that helps everyday Christians identify the people already in their relational network, pray for them, build deeper relationships, and look for opportunities to bring Jesus into...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor Trey Sansom talks with Pastor Daniel Brummet of Oikos Church in Willis, TX, about planting a new church in one of the fastest-growing areas north of Houston.

As Daniel shares the heartbeat behind Oikos—creating a spiritual home and family for people who feel disconnected—he reflects on Matthew 9, where Jesus looks at the crowds with compassion because they are harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

This conversation explores church planting, everyday mission, Positive Christian Bumps, praying for servers, and how ordinary believers can identify their own...

What is a disciple, and how do disciples actually grow? In this episode of Engaging Truth, Trey Sansom sits down with Gene Johnson, Spiritual Formation Pastor at Trinity Klein Lutheran Church, to explore a simple but powerful definition of discipleship.

Together they discuss why discipleship is relational, transformational, and missional; how spending time with Jesus shapes our character; and why disciple-making happens best in authentic relationships centered on God’s Word.

Whether you’re new to the faith or have followed Jesus for years, this conversation offers practical encouragement for growing as a disciple and help...

How can art, sports, and community involvement become opportunities for sharing the gospel? In this episode, Rev. Dr. Doug Krengel visits with Jordan Boessling, Director of Creative Communication and Community Connections at Christ Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas.

Jordan shares how God has used his passions for art and baseball to build relationships, serve his community, and create meaningful connections that point people to Jesus. From art camps and church murals to coaching youth baseball and serving with RBI Austin, Jordan explores how Christians can live out their faith beyond the walls of the church.

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In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor Trey Sansom talks with Pastor Travis Hartjen of Reclaimed Church in Justin, Texas, about why Jesus so often chooses ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. From fishermen and shepherds to King David and the Apostle Peter, Travis explores the biblical pattern of God working through the unlikely, the overlooked, and the imperfect.

Trey and Travis share personal stories of redemption, church planting, discipleship, and how God uses everyday followers of Jesus to reach people in ordinary places. This encouraging conversation reminds listeners that the Holy Spirit delights in reclaiming broken...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom sits down with Pastor and author Ted Doering of Narrative Church in Round Rock, Texas, to explore how everyday life is already full of purpose in Jesus.

From church planting to a culture of “sending,” Pastor Doering unpacks the powerful truth of vocation—that where you live, work, and relate to others is exactly where God is calling you to be on mission. Together, they introduce the idea of a “positive Christian bump,” showing how simple, faithful interactions over time can draw people closer to Jesus without pressure o...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor Trey Sansom sits down with Ben Gonzales, Mission Strategist for Area B of the Texas District of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, for a deeply encouraging conversation about intimacy with God, the presence of Jesus, and the heart of Christian mission.

Ben shares how the entire story of Scripture points toward God’s desire to dwell with His people—from the Garden of Eden to the incarnation of Jesus Christ to the promise of Revelation. Together, Trey and Ben explore how mission flows out of relationship, why spiritual health begins with s...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Rev. Dr. Doug Krengel talks with Pastor Al Doering of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Kingwood, Texas, about church planting, discipleship, and the growing movement known as the Harvest Partnership. Reflecting on more than thirty-six years of ministry, Pastor Doering shares how Jesus continually reminds him that he is deeply loved, sent into the world, and called to help connect disconnected people to Christ.

The conversation explores the importance of spiritual capital, relational encouragement, prayer, leadership multiplication, and why the Church must focus on God’s kingdom over building its ow...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom talks with Pastor Alex Lahue—known as the “LeveL Up Pastor”—about reaching the next generation through online gaming communities. LeveL Up Pastor Alex shares how platforms like Twitch and Discord are becoming spaces for real conversations about faith, doubt, identity, and the grace of Jesus.

With a focus on Christ’s compassion for the lost, this conversation explores how believers can create safe, authentic communities where people are seen, heard, and invited to “LeveL Up” in their faith. Whether online or in everyday life, this episode will challenge...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor John Cain sits down with Pastor Mark Pulliam of Lazarus Church in Spring, Texas, to explore how one simple habit—praying Luke 10:2 at 10:02 each day—is reshaping the way Christians engage the world around them.

Pastor Mark shares how God is already at work in the lives of people around us and invites believers to step into their everyday calling with confidence and freedom. From understanding vocation to practicing evangelistic prayer walking in ordinary places like coffee shops and businesses, this conversation equips listeners to move beyond fear and into...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom sits down with Pastor Tony Kobak of Lamb of God Lutheran Church in Humble, Texas, to explore a simple yet powerful way to share the love of Jesus in everyday life. Drawing from his background in the workforce and years in ministry, Pastor Tony shares how asking one question—“How can I pray for you?”—can open doors to real, personal, Gospel-centered conversations anywhere from restaurants to hospital rooms.

Through honest stories, unexpected encounters, and practical encouragement, this conversation equips everyday believers to step out in courage, meet peo...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Rob Bailey sits down with Pastor Mark Hunsaker of Hope Lutheran Church in Austin, Texas, to explore what it means to live in Jesus’ “upside down kingdom.” As Mark steps into a new call in a rapidly changing, multicultural neighborhood, he shares how God is reshaping both his congregation and his own heart for mission.

From removing barriers to build relationships, to creating spaces for prayer and honest conversation, this episode highlights how the Gospel moves forward through humility, persistence, and dependence on Jesus.

If you’ve ever fel...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Rev. Dr. Doug Krengel sits down with Pastor Christopher Brynestad of King of Kings Lutheran Church in Round Rock, Texas, to explore how ministry is being reshaped in one of the fastest-growing and most diverse regions in the country.

From navigating a tech-driven culture to building meaningful partnerships across churches, he highlights how trust, collaboration, and the Word of God are forming leaders and strengthening community. Most importantly, this conversation centers on what it means to live a “gospel-fueled life”—where faith moves beyond Sunday worship into tangible acts of love...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor Trey Sansom welcomes longtime friend and ministry partner Pastor Matt Peeples (Faith Oakville, St. Louis; founder of the Kairos Network) for a conversation that takes the pressure off everyday disciples. Drawing from Acts 11 and the church in Antioch, Matt shows how the Gospel has always advanced through ordinary, unnamed believers simply talking about Jesus as they went.

Then he breaks down a practical, reproducible way to start spiritual conversations anywhere: Discovery Bible Study—three questions, Scripture as the curriculum, the Holy Spirit as the teacher, and you as the facilitator.

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor John Cain sits down with Pastor Nathan Misch of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Plainview, Texas, to explore the compassion of Jesus through the story of the woman at the well in John 4. Pastor Misch unpacks how Christ’s compassion is not merely emotion, but an active, self-giving response to human brokenness—one that holds truth and love together without compromise. In a world marked by anxiety, loneliness, and division, this conversation offers a timely call for Christians to reflect the compassion they’ve received in Jesus.

With practical insights on ove...

In this Easter episode of Engaging Truth, Pastors Trey Sansom and Rob Bailey explore a question that moves beyond just a once-a-year celebration into real life: Why does the resurrection matter today? Through personal stories, Scripture, and honest reflection, they unpack how the resurrection of Jesus changes everything—bringing forgiveness, defeating death, and giving meaning to suffering. From moments of deep grief to everyday anxiety, this conversation points to a living hope that doesn’t fade with circumstances.

Whether you’re celebrating Easter or just trying to make sense of life on an ordinary day, this episode invite...

Host John Cain sits down with Pastor Dan Schepmann of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Clear Lake, Texas—right near NASA—to explore a simple, life-shaping truth: God blesses His people so they can be a blessing. Drawing from Genesis 12, Pastor Schepmann unpacks the difference between the justified life (what Jesus has done for you) and the sanctified life (how Jesus now works through you), and he shares how Gloria Dei has grown into a “neighborhood church” that serves far beyond its walls.

From mentoring younger pastors to leveraging church facilities for community impact, this conversation is a clear...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor Trey Sansom sits down with Pastor Gene Johnson of Trinity Klein Lutheran Church and School to explore a leadership truth rooted in John 13 and Philippians 2: the heart of leadership is a servant heart. Reflecting on Jesus washing His disciples’ feet, Gene unpacks how true influence flows not from authority or ego, but from humility, vulnerability, and a life saturated in Christ.

Together they discuss how servant leadership resists pride, avoids legalism, and grows out of daily time with Jesus. Whether you lead in a church, workplace, home, or community, this co...

This week, we talk to Pastor Tim Engel about Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry. Pastor Tim and the Comfort Dogs’ special service has helped countless people in the wake of natural disaster, family upheaval, and national tragedies.

Tim brings a unique perspective to help in hard times and how bringing Jesus’ love and a ministry of presence can change everything. Pastor Josh Knippa hosts.

In this episode of Engaging Truth, Pastor Richard Lamb of Zion Lutheran Church in Anderson, Texas, shares how a 140-year-old rural congregation is embracing change while holding fast to the unchanging Gospel.

From transitioning hymnals to welcoming new families moving out from Houston, Zion is learning to look outward—serving teachers with donuts, opening their parking lot to neighbors, hosting VBS, and dreaming about blessing backpacks for local students. At the heart of it all is the simple, powerful truth Pastor Lamb can’t let go of: Jesus’ words from the cross—“It is finished.”

Join us for...

In this episode of Engaging Truth, host Pastor Trey Sansom sits down with Pastor Jason Moreno of Christ Memorial Lutheran Church in Houston to talk about the thought of Jesus’ ministry that never leaves his mind: “Christ always includes me.” Pastor Moreno shares how seasons of not fitting the mold—career shifts, loss, divorce, doubt, and ministry challenges—became the very places where Jesus met him with personal love, not reluctant permission.

Together, Trey and Jason explore how our deepest identity isn’t what we’ve done or what others say, but what Jesus says: beloved child. You are not an...

Far more than a good human teacher, the Bible tells us that Christ Jesus is God, and He holds all things together. In a powerful presentation, the Rev. Steven Misch explains how the Christian faith is unique. We do not have to "do right" to be "right with God," rather, we are saved by faith in Jesus. Jesus alone is perfect. Through Jesus, we are made right with God the Father.

Standing in our place, Jesus took God the Father's divine judgment and wrath on the cross. Now covered by Christ's righteousness, we will be judged as "...

Rev. Joshua LeBorious, Sr. Pastor at Hope Lutheran Church in Friendswood, TX, is an expert on “relational ministry”.

If this term is new to you, I encourage you to listen to the Engaging Truth program featuring Pastor Laborious as he explains how Jesus’ ministry was relational and encourages us to follow Jesus’ way of offering ministry. Rev. Dr. Douglas Krengel hosts.

Explaining an aspect of Jesus that he appreciates so much is the Rev. Scott Heitshusen. Scott is the pastor of LifeBridge Community Church in Sealy, Texas (https://www.lifebridgesealy.com/). Hosting today’s conversation is Pastor John Cain.

One day from the pulpit at Joy Lutheran Church in Summerwood, Pastor Trey Sansom told his congregation, "Jesus is even better at forgiving than we are at sinning." One of his parishoners was so moved by the message that he committed to printing it on t-shirts to be given away.

Pastor Sansom joins host Bill Prewitt to discuss both the message and the movement on this week's episode of "Engaging Truth."

Pastor Robert Bailey has served in very large churches and most recently started a church between Houston and Galveston. With no permanent church building, Pastor Bailey has learned to be very creative.

For example, the “Questions and Pints” gathering engages new people in spiritual conversations while enjoying a beverage. Pastor Bailey has also connected with the community he serves while serving as a chaplain for the local police department.

As a second career pastor, Pastor Bailey brings a fresh perspective to the work of the Lord. Tune in and learn how the risen Christ is at w...

Late last year Rev. Matthew Brackman, pastor at Peace Lutheran Church in Texas City, took on a new role as a dual-congregation pastor also serving Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Houston.

Join host Bill Prewitt as they discuss the challenges of being the spiritual leader of two congregations.

Join us for an insightful interview with LCMS Texas District President Jon Braunersreuther as he shares the latest updates on district ministries, exciting progress in church planting initiatives reaching new communities, practical ideas for congregational renewal and revitalization, and the current landscape of pastoral formation amid growing needs.

Anchoring it all in timeless hope, he'll reflect on the transformative power of Jesus' resurrection—proof of victory over death and the foundation of our faith. Pastor Josh Knippa hosts.

When eternal God was born into a human body that first Christmas (the Incarnation), the Word of God through whom all creation came into being, also became flesh. But why did He do it? God did it to personally deliver the divine blessings of forgiveness, eternal life and ultimately renewal.

Understanding the Bible in the way that is “true to the original” is teaching Scripture as it was understood by the apostles and transmitted to the early church. This is an incredibly important aspect of our Christianity and one that was shared by Athanasius (c. 296-373) as his...

Who is Jesus that we celebrate at Christmas, Easter, and all year-round?

From the creation of the universe through Him, to His birth into human flesh that first Christmas, to the end of time, Jesus is eternal God and has earned our place with Him for eternity.

Talking about the creation and Jesus’ incarnation into human flesh is the Rev. Brad Jurischk. He is the Senior Pastor of St. Timothy Lutheran Church, in NW Houston, Texas (www.STLHouston.org). Pastor John Cain hosts.

Christmas is coming and Pastor Jeff Doria, the Senior Pastor at St. Paul in Thorndale, Texas, assists us in preparing for the joy of Christ's birth.

Starting with John 1, Pastor Doria guides the audience through various ways they may prepare for Christmas at home, at school, in the youth group, and in the sanctuary. Along the way, participants learn about the church year, the season of Advent, and the "fleshiness" of the Christian faith as found in God-made-flesh in Jesus.

In addition, Pastor Doria leads us in differentiating between fun, fictional Christmas-y stories and the...

What does it mean that Jesus was born at Christmas? It means that the Eternal God chose to be born into human flesh to help us, entering our world at that one point in history to begin our restoration. Setting aside the glories of Heaven, Jesus was born to rescue us from sin, death and the devil. By His sinless death on the cross, and resurrection back to life again, Jesus earned our exemption from God the Father’s judgment on human sin and our ultimate place with Jesus in eternity.

Today’s guest is the Rev. Mich...

Pastor Stephen DeMik spent several years in the Cypress, Texas, area serving as an Associate Pastor at St. John Lutheran Church, then to launching Cypress Chapel in a local pub, while also joining the U.S. Navy Reserves as a military chaplain.

Pastor Demik currently serves as co-pastor at Hope Lutheran Church in Lubbock. Join us as we hear of Pastor DeMik's interesting and varied career serving the people of God. Bill Prewitt hosts.

God is all-knowing, but we have our limits. God has partially revealed Himself to us through His Word (the Bible). We know that Christians live under His forgiveness, earned by Jesus. But, what can we know about His plan for the Church on earth, its structure and its pastors?

The Rev. Dr. John Davis is First Vice President of the Texas District, in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (txlcms.org); and he is the senior pastor of Memorial Lutheran Church of Katy, Texas (mlckaty.com). In a wide-ranging interview, he talks about God's omniscient (all-knowing) nature, and...