Church Talk with Dr. Joe Kidder

Ep 37: How to Keep the Sabbath - with Thomas Shepherd

In this follow-up to the previous episode on Sabbath theology, Dr. Thomas Shepherd joins host Joe Kidder to explore what it truly means to keep the Sabbath. Drawing from Scripture, personal stories, and a recent sermon series, Dr. Shepherd outlines seven biblical principles—rest, worship, blessing, community, equality, healing, and joy—that invite us to view Sabbath not as a restriction, but as a weekly gift. Whether you're new to Sabbath-keeping or looking to deepen your experience, this episode offers both thoughtful insight and practical encouragement.

Ep 36: Understanding the Theology of the Sabbath - with Thomas Shepherd

What is the Sabbath really about—and why does it matter today? In this episode, Dr. Thomas Shepherd unpacks the deep theological meaning of the Sabbath as a memorial of creation, redemption, and our ultimate purpose. He and host Joe Kidder explore how the Sabbath shapes our identity, levels our relationships, and points us toward a future rest with God. If you’ve ever wondered why the Sabbath is so central to the Adventist faith, this conversation will give you a foundation for further exploration. 

Ep 35: The Trinity in the New Testament - with Jiří Moskala

In Part 2 of this series on the Trinity in the Bible, Dr. Jiří Moskala joins Joe Kidder to explore how the New Testament reveals the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit working together for our salvation. From Jesus' baptism to the Book of Revelation, they unpack how early Christians came to understand Jesus as fully God—and how the Holy Spirit still empowers us today.

Ep 34: The Trinity in the Old Testament - with Jiří Moskala

Does the Old Testament speak of the Trinity? in Part 1 of this two part series on the Trinity in the Bible, Dr. Jiří Moskala, Dean of the Seventh-Day Adventist Theological Seminary joins Dr. Joe Kidder to explore surprising and beautiful glimpses of the triune God in Hebrew scripture—from creation to the prophets. Discover how the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are already present in the earliest chapters of the Bible.

Ep. 33: How to Develop Community - Ann Hamel

How can we be there for friends who are grieving, especially in our very individualistic, Western culture? Ann Galeniece continues her thoughts on processing loss, and grief, and how we as Christians can (and should) show up for our struggling community. She details simple steps that can be taken in our everyday lives to build community.

Ep. 32: The Value of Community - with Ann Hamel

Psychologist Ann Hamel shares the moving story behind Return to Palau and how faith and community helped a young girl—and herself—heal from unimaginable loss. A powerful reflection on grief, resilience, and the church as the hands of Jesus.

Ep. 31: The Covenant in the New Testament - with Felix Cortez

Dr. Felix Cortez joins Joe Kidder to unpack how biblical covenants—from Adam to David—find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus. Discover how God’s promise to humanity offers assurance, identity, and hope through Christ.

Ep. 30: The Joy of Giving - with Felix Cortez

Dr. Felix Cortez, professor of New Testament at the Adventist Theological Seminary, joins Dr. Joe Kidder to explore the deeper meaning and spiritual richness of giving. Drawing on biblical principles and personal stories, Dr. Cortez unpacks the different Hebrew words for offerings, showing how giving is far more than a duty—it’s an act of joy, worship, tribute, and partnership with God. Discover how offerings go beyond financial support to become meaningful expressions of love, sacrifice, and spiritual insight. You’ll never look at giving the same way again.

Ep. 29: Your Work, Your Mission - with Wagner Kuhn

Dr. Wagner Kuhn returns to explore how everyday work can be a powerful platform for mission. From biblical examples like Job and Paul to modern-day stories of engineers, doctors, and even poodle breeders, Dr. Kuhn and host Joe Kidder unpack what it means to live as a disciple of Jesus—no matter your profession. Discover how turning your career into a calling can transform lives and bring the gospel into unexpected places. Whether you’re an accountant, artist, teacher, or technician, this episode will help you see your work with new eyes: as your mission.

Ep. 28: The Gospel in Working Boots - with Wagner Kuhn

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Wagner Kuhn, a professor of mission and intercultural studies, to explore how the gospel comes alive through service, sacrifice, and holistic mission. From his family’s missionary roots in Brazil to his pioneering work in missiological education, Dr. Kuhn shares stories that challenge us to think beyond traditional evangelism. Discover what it means to live out the gospel with “working boots” on, and how faith and practical service go hand in hand.