Episode
“From Scoundrel to Shepherd: The 1975 Turning Point — A Conversation with Pastor Mike Hesterman”
- Podcast
- Crusade with Me
- Published
- Jun 18, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 5721
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://rss.com/podcasts/crusade-with-me/2913598
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Summary
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Crusade With Me! Dave sits down with a lifelong friend — Pastor Mike Hesterman — to revisit a 30‑year friendship and a 50‑year faith journey. Pastor Mike opens up about his early life as a self‑described scoundrel , his years of rebellion, his time in the Army during a racially tense and dangerous season, and the night in 1975 when he was forced to confront the question: “If I died tonight… where would I go?” What follows is a raw, honest, and moving conversation about: Growing up between two strong traditions — Lutheran and Mennonite Wrestling with infant baptism, adult baptism, and what Scripture actually says The dangers of drugs, deception, and dabbling in darkness The moment in Germany that changed everything How identity, rebellion, and human nature haven’t changed in 6,000 years Why being made in the image of God still matters today The struggle to mature spiritually — and why some truths only hit us decades later This episode is rich with wisdom, humility, humor, and the kind of honesty only two old friends can share. A must‑listen for anyone wrestling with faith, identity, or the long road of transformation.