Thinking Fellows — Year End Announcement from 1517

Episode Date: December 2, 2025
Hosts: Scott Keith, Caleb Keith, Adam Francisco, Bruce Hilman
Podcast Theme: Theology, Philosophy, Christian History, Apologetics

1. Episode Overview

This special year-end episode of Thinking Fellows serves as an announcement and invitation from the 1517 Podcast Network. The hosts share reflections on the 2025 Advent season and highlight the ongoing mission to proclaim Christ’s forgiveness and freedom. They focus particularly on their annual fundraising campaign, encouraging listeners to support the ministry’s work as it continues into 2026.

2. Main Discussion Points & Insights

A. Mission of 1517

• The central focus is reaffirming 1517’s dedication:
  • “1517 and the podcast Network are asking listeners to support our mission to declare and defend the good news that you are forgiven and free on account of Christ alone.” (00:00, Speaker A)
• Emphasis on the message of Christ as the only foundation for forgiveness and spiritual freedom.

B. Advent Theme: Coming Home for Christmas

• This year’s resources echo the Advent theme:
  • “This Advent, we're focusing on how Christ alone brings sinners home. That's the message we proclaim week after week...” (00:14, Speaker A)
• Announcement of a free Advent resource series “Coming Home for Christmas” for churches and individuals.
• The words of Isaiah are referenced as pointing “to the Savior who welcomes the weary and the wandering.”

C. Scope of 1517’s Work

• 1517’s output includes:
  • Podcasts, sermons, videos, articles, and preaching helps, all centered on sharing the Gospel.
• The collaborative effort is highlighted:
  • “Behind each one of them is a team of faithful pastors, theologians, designers, artists, editors and content managers working together to share the Gospel with as many people as possible through as many mediums as possible...” (00:32, Speaker A)

D. Year-End Fundraising Campaign

• Goal for 2025: $800,000 to continue and expand their work.
• Special push on Giving Tuesday to gather 1,000 donors:
  • “Today on giving Tuesday, we're making a major push to gather 1,000 donors to support this campaign.” (00:46, Speaker A)
• Listeners are invited to give at 1517.org/give if they have benefited from any 1517 resources.

E. Gratitude and Encouragement

• The episode concludes with a message of thanks and encouragement:
  • “Thank you for helping us proclaim the forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone.” (00:57, Speaker A)

3. Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “This Advent, we're focusing on how Christ alone brings sinners home.” (00:14, Speaker A)
• “Behind each one of them is a team of faithful pastors, theologians, designers, artists, editors and content managers working together to share the Gospel with as many people as possible through as many mediums as possible...” (00:32, Speaker A)
• “Today on giving Tuesday, we're making a major push to gather 1,000 donors to support this campaign.” (00:46, Speaker A)

4. Key Timestamps

• 00:00: Introduction to the year-end mission and Advent focus
• 00:14: Advent theme and new resource announcement
• 00:32: The collaborative work behind 1517’s resources
• 00:46: Details on the Giving Tuesday fundraising effort
• 00:57: Closing thanks and encouragement to support

Summary

This concise episode is a heartfelt call from the 1517 network to its community, inviting support for their mission as the year closes. Rooted in the message of forgiveness through Christ alone, the hosts highlight the Advent theme of “Coming Home for Christmas,” introduce their new free resource, and reflect on the collective efforts behind their content. The episode encourages listeners who have found value in 1517’s offerings to consider contributing to their year-end goal, enabling the continued spread of the Gospel message in the year to come.