In this episode of Red Letter Disciple, Zach Zehnder sits down with Brady Finnern, one of the candidates for president of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, for a thoughtful conversation about the future of the LCMS.
Brady shares his initial reaction to being nominated, how he discerned whether to let his name stand, and what continues to deepen his willingness to serve. The conversation also explores the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering, where Brady reflects on the hunger he saw in the next generation for God’s Word and the hope that gives him for the future of the church.
Zach and Brady talk candidly about church decline, grief, hope, doctrinal integrity, visitation, leadership, and what it means to be Lutheran in a confused and politicized world. Brady repeatedly returns to the beauty of forgiveness in Christ, the importance of soul care, and the conviction that the church must remain steadfast in God’s Word.
This episode is part of Red Letter Disciple’s series of interviews with 2026 LCMS presidential candidates, designed to help listeners become more informed as the church body looks toward convention.
Today’s episode is brought to you by Hodos. Hodos is a new non-profit designed to pave the way for the next generation of Lutherans. Designed for 18-29 year olds, Hodos is currently planning a national Young Adult Gathering for 2027. For interest, updated information, or donation options, please go to www.HodosWay.com.
Brady Finnern sees his nomination for LCMS president as deeply humbling and something to be approached through prayer, Scripture, and counsel.
He believes one of the greatest strengths of the LCMS is its doctrinal unity and its confidence in Christ’s forgiveness.
Brady describes the LCMS today as a “grieving church,” saying many congregations are mourning what once was.
He argues that the church has not always grieved well, often moving too quickly to blame instead of lament.
He sees real hope in the next generation, especially in students who are hungry for Scripture and serious theological teaching.
Brady emphasizes that the church’s greatest opportunity is to keep preaching the truth in a world desperate for forgiveness.
He believes leadership should be marked by soul care, visitation, doctrinal fidelity, and charity toward others.
His greatest concern for the LCMS is that it could lose hope.
His vision for the future is a church that remains steadfast in God’s Word for generations to come.
Brady’s “Lord have mercy” reaction to being nominated for LCMS president
How his wife, children, and father helped him discern whether to let his name stand
Reflections from co-hosting the 2025 LCMS Youth Gathering
Why he was surprised by the spiritual hunger of Gen Z
What makes him proud to be part of the LCMS
Why the forgiveness of sins is one of the most beautiful parts of Lutheran theology
His diagnosis of church decline and why he believes the LCMS is grieving
What pastors can do to lead in a politically divided world
How soul care and visitation shape his leadership
What he hopes remains unchanged in the LCMS 30 years from now
Why he says the biggest threat to the church is losing hope
This week, pay attention to the people God places in front of you.
Pray for them. And when someone opens up about their sin, struggle, or failure, be ready to speak the good news: Christ died for that. You are forgiven.
Many want to be greater followers of Jesus but don’t know how. We extensively studied everything Jesus commanded of us and located five key targets to which Jesus invited His followers. The five targets are Being, Forgiving, Serving, Giving, and Going.
In partnership with LifeWay Research, we created a Red Letter Challenge Assessment that will measure you according to these five targets. And the best news of all: it’s free! You will get results back immediately and be presented with the next steps to help you become an even greater follower of Jesus.
You can take the FREE Red Letter Challenge Assessment here.
We’ll be uploading every episode of The Red Letter Disciple on our YouTube Channel. If you aren’t subscribed already, you can do so here.
