Podcasts about biblical preaching

Series: He Loves Us More than He Loves Himself Originally aired 06/15/2025

Series: He Loves Us More than He Loves Himself Originally aired 06/08/2025

The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is evident through wisdom, revelation, and empowerment. Yet, many followers of Jesus struggle to fully embrace the Spirit and remain open to its power and transformative work—both of which are essential for a vibrant, faith-filled life. References: "It is the same with the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Evangelical Christianity believes it, but nobody experiences it. It (the Holy Spirit) lies under the snow, forgotten. I am praying that God may be able to melt away the ice from this blessed truth, and let it spring up alive again, that the Church and the people who hear may get some good out of it and not merely say 'I believe,' while it is buried under the snow of inactivity and nonattention." - A.W. Tozer

The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life is evident through wisdom, revelation, and empowerment. Yet, many followers of Jesus struggle to fully embrace the Spirit and remain open to its power and transformative work—both of which are essential for a vibrant, faith-filled life. References: "How many blessed truths have gotten snowed under. People believe them, but they are just not being taught, that is all. I think of our experience this morning. Here was a man and his wife, a very fine intelligent couple from another city. They named the church to which they belonged, and I instantly said, 'That is a fine church!' 'Oh, yes,' they said, 'but they don’t teach what we came over here for.' They came over because they were ill and wanted to be scripturally anointed for healing. So I got together two missionaries, two preachers, and an elder, and we anointed them and prayed for them. If you were to go to that church where they attend and say to the preacher, 'Do you believe that the Lord answers prayer and heals the sick?' he would reply, 'Sure, I do!' He believes it, but he doesn’t teach it, and what you don’t believe strongly enough to teach doesn’t do you any good. It is the same with the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Evangelical Christianity believes it, but nobody experiences it. It lies under the snow, forgotten. I am praying that God may be able to melt away the ice from this blessed truth, and let it spring up again alive, that the Church and the people who hear may get some good out of it and not merely say 'I believe' while it is buried under the snow of inactivity and nonattention. 'Lord, don’t let me be guilty of keeping the truth of the Holy Spirit’s ministry ‘buried under the snow.’ Help me to both teach and live the active presence and controlling power of the Holy Spirit today. Amen.'" - A.W. Tozer, How to be Filled with the Spirit “Everywhere I go, I find that God’s people lack something. They are hungry for something. Their Christian experience is not all that they expected.” - Billy Graham TRANSCRIPT

In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, hosts Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the lectionary texts for the second Sunday after Pentecost, focusing on the Gospel of Luke, the Old Testament readings from Isaiah and First Kings, and the epistle from Galatians.  They explore themes of identity, transformation, and the implications of Jesus' ministry, particularly in relation to the demoniac and the prophetic voice of Elijah.  The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these texts in their historical and cultural contexts, as well as their relevance for contemporary preaching. Commentaries for the Second Sunday after Pentecost can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/ordinary-12-3/commentary-on-luke-826-39-6. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to texts for Second Sunday after Pentecost (Ord. 12C) 01:34 Exploring Luke 8 and the Demoniac 07:07 The Transformation of Identity and Community 13:22 The Old Testament Context: Isaiah 65 and Elijah (1 Kings 19) 25:44 Psalm 22's connection to the Gospel 25:52 Understanding Galatians 3 and Christian Identity 27:33 Outro *  *  * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Learn more by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Sl82Uu2QHIc.

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Sermon Brainwave! This week, our hosts Karoline Lewis, Matt Skinner, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the readings for the third Sunday after Pentecost, focusing on the Gospel of Luke and its themes of discipleship, urgency, and the cost of following Jesus.  They explore the significance of Elisha's inheritance and leadership, the prayerful reflections in Psalm 16, and the implications of freedom in Galatians. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and urgency of Jesus' message, as well as the communal aspects of living by the Spirit. Commentaries for the Third Sunday after Pentecost can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/ordinary-13-3/commentary-on-luke-951-62-10. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Sermon Brainwave 01:15 Exploring the Gospel of Luke 03:02 The Cost of Discipleship 07:09 The Urgency of Following Jesus 12:14 Elisha's Inheritance and Leadership 19:10 Psalm 16: A Prayer for Crossing 20:51 Understanding Galatians: Freedom and Community *  *  * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Learn more by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/8cOI3GUb1LM.

Pride Month is evil, and we must call it what it is. In this episode, we're discussing the spiritual implications of Pride Month, asking hard questions about what it represents—and how believers should respond. We're drawing the connection between pride, identity, and rebellion against God's design for human flourishing.Many Christians feel spiritually drained during this month, and we should. I'm challenging my listeners to love the LGBTQ+ community not with silence or compromise (and certainly not with support) but with truth—the truth that God offers forgiveness, transformation, and eternal life to all who repent and follow Christ.We must hate sin while praying for our enemies. Our culture desperately needs more holiness, conviction, and compassion rooted in the gospel, which is telling those around us the truth.—https://www.thebrandsunday.com/products/the-bible-study-physical?srsltid=AfmBOoqBR_MWE2-fkYXYHCn80nZtEct4ixmRGrXZSrgIn5HP_tBc9Mcy

Series: He Loves Us More than He Loves Himself Originally aired 06/01/2025

Jesus promises to come back—not with secret plans or end-of-the-world theories, but in full glory to set everything right. Instead of stressing about the timing or details, the focus is on who Jesus is: a fair judge and loving king. This gives us hope today, reminding us that no matter how broken or unfair life feels, Jesus will return to restore all things and bring lasting peace. References: “The only way to solve the problem of evil is for God to do what in fact he did, to take it out of the world by taking it into himself.” - Robert Capen

Series: He Loves Us More than He Loves Himself Originally aired 05/25/2025

Jesus’ resurrection and ascension are how God steps into our chaos and starts putting things back together—bringing order to the mess and beauty to our lives. Because he’s alive and reigning, we get to experience his presence with us, the power of the Holy Spirit in us, and a new purpose that calls us to live for something bigger than ourselves. Notes: John Craft, our Guest Speaker, is the Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Church Network TRANSCRIPT

Jesus’ resurrection and ascension are how God steps into our chaos and starts putting things back together—bringing order to the mess and beauty to our lives. Because he’s alive and reigning, we get to experience his presence with us, the power of the Holy Spirit in us, and a new purpose that calls us to live for something bigger than ourselves. Notes: John Craft, our Guest Speaker, is the Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Church Network TRANSCRIPT

Revelation Preaching Series on Revelation (text commentaries found on Working Preacher at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/preaching-series-on-revelation-2025/commentary-on-revelation-14-8-7. • Week 1 - 7/27/2025: Revelation 1:4-8 (Greetings and 1st Vision) • Week 2 - 8/03/2025: Revelation 4:1-11 (The Elders and the Four Living Creatures) • Week 3 - 8/10/2025: Revelation 5:1-13 (The Seven Seals) • Week 4 - 8/17/2025: Revelation 7:9-17 (The Multitude from Every Nation) • Week 5 - 8/24/2025: Revelation 13:1-18 (The Beast and the Dragon) • Week 6 - 8/31/2025: Revelation 21:1-6; 22:1-5 (The New Heaven and the New Jerusalem) ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00  Introduction to Narrative Lectionary Summer Preaching Series on Revelation 02:54  Overview: Exploring the Book of Revelation 03:35  Week 1: Revelation 1, Greetings and First Vision 05:51  Trinitarian Theology in Revelation 08:41  Week 2: Revelation 4, The Elders and the Four Living Creatures 08:59  Imagery and Symbolism in Revelation 12:04  The Role of Worship in Revelation 15:08  Diversity and Inclusion in Revelation 17:56  Week 3: Revelation 5, The Seven Seals 20:53  The Nature of Salvation in Revelation 24:06  Understanding Numbers and Symbolism 25:37  Week 4: Revelation 7, The Multitude from Every Nation 27:12  Deception and Violence in Revelation 29:57  Week 5: Revelation 13, The Beast and the Dragon 31:30  Worship as a detergent for deception and violence 37:00  Week 6: Revelation 21-22, The New Heaven and the New Jerusalem 38:02  The Final Vision: New Creation and Hope on earth 41:25  Outro

Peter Mead is the director of Cor Deo and part of the leadership team of Trinity Chippenham, a church in the UK Peter helped to plant back in 2014. Peter shares his background, including being raised in a missionary family, his initial resistance to ministry and preaching roles, and how his faith journey led him to embrace these callings. He discusses the inspiration behind the ministry training program Cor Deo, his involvement in church planting, and his approach to preparing sermons and teaching. Peter also talks about his recent venture into podcasting with a focus on preaching and provides insights into his writing process. The episode concludes with Peter's message of hope for the younger generation, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus. Peter was the main speaker at our annual Spring Conference and his teachings on "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ," will be released on the podcast over the next month. We invite you to listen to these teaching episodes and explore the gospel of John more deeply.  Get to know Peter More: pouredout.org www.cordeo.org.uk Biblicalpreaching.net The Biblical Preaching Podcast - On Spotify The Biblical Preaching Podcast - On Apple Podcasts Connect with Us: Follow @josiahventure on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at josiahventure.com Contact: social@josiahventure.com   Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Sermon Brainwave! This week, our hosts Karoline Lewis, Matt Skinner, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the texts for the Seventh Sunday of Easter, focusing on John 17's Priestly Prayer, the significance of glory in John's Gospel, and the challenges faced by Paul in Acts 16. They explore the story of the enslaved girl, the power of prayer and praise in adversity, and provide liturgical reflections on the Psalm and Revelation, emphasizing God's presence and promise amidst trials. ✨ Whether you're preparing to preach or simply longing to deepen your spiritual insight, this episode will equip you with fresh angles, biblical depth, and a few laughs along the way. Commentaries for the Seventh Sunday of Easter can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/seventh-sunday-of-easter-3/commentary-on-john-1720-26-6. *  *  * Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Learn more by visiting https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/T6Paog8Pd6M.

Series: He Loves Us More than He Loves Himself Originally aired 05/18/2025

Jesus’ birth reveals the depth of God’s faithful promises and longsuffering love. Seen through the experiences of Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, it becomes clear that God stepped into human history to bring redemption. And the story continues—God still meets us in the midst of life’s chaos, offering grace precisely when and where it’s needed most. References: Kaci Mexico, our Guest Speaker is on staff as Young Adults Pastor at Red Rocks Church

Jesus’ birth reveals the depth of God’s faithful promises and longsuffering love. Seen through the experiences of Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, it becomes clear that God stepped into human history to bring redemption. And the story continues—God still meets us in the midst of life’s chaos, offering grace precisely when and where it’s needed most. References: Kaci Mexico, our Guest Speaker is on staff as Young Adults Pastor at Red Rocks Church

Today, on Karl and Crew, we started the week with a focus on David and how God-given ability to minister through music. Music is a form of expression that can communicate a story, event, dialogue, or the gospel. 1 Samuel 16 talks about how David would play music to soothe the troubled King Saul. Our discussion examines how God can use music to minister to us. What’s a song that God has used to minister to you? Dr. Winfred Neely also joined us in analyzing David's life and anointing. Dr. Neely is a newly retired Vice President and Academic Dean of Moody Theological Seminary. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Biblical Interpretations, Old Testament, and Biblical Preaching at the Moody Bible Institute. He has also contributed and written commentaries and books. He wrote the commentary on 1 and 2 Samuel for the “Moody Commentary on the Bible.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on Karl and Crew Showcast.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we started the week with a focus on David and how God-given ability to minister through music. Music is a form of expression that can communicate a story, event, dialogue, or the gospel. 1 Samuel 16 talks about how David would play music to soothe the troubled King Saul. Our discussion examines how God can use music to minister to us. What’s a song that God has used to minister to you? Dr. Winfred Neely also joined us in analyzing David's life and anointing. Dr. Neely is a newly retired Vice President and Academic Dean of Moody Theological Seminary. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Biblical Interpretations, Old Testament, and Biblical Preaching at the Moody Bible Institute. He has also contributed and written commentaries and books. He wrote the commentary on 1 and 2 Samuel for the “Moody Commentary on the Bible.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on Karl and Crew Showcast.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we started the week with a focus on David and how God-given ability to minister through music. Music is a form of expression that can communicate a story, event, dialogue, or the gospel. 1 Samuel 16 talks about how David would play music to soothe the troubled King Saul. Our discussion examines how God can use music to minister to us. What’s a song that God has used to minister to you? Dr. Winfred Neely also joined us in analyzing David's life and anointing. Dr. Neely is a newly retired Vice President and Academic Dean of Moody Theological Seminary. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Biblical Interpretations, Old Testament, and Biblical Preaching at the Moody Bible Institute. He has also contributed and written commentaries and books. He wrote the commentary on 1 and 2 Samuel for the “Moody Commentary on the Bible.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on Karl and Crew Showcast.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we started the week with a focus on David and how God-given ability to minister through music. Music is a form of expression that can communicate a story, event, dialogue, or the gospel. 1 Samuel 16 talks about how David would play music to soothe the troubled King Saul. Our discussion examines how God can use music to minister to us. What’s a song that God has used to minister to you? Dr. Winfred Neely also joined us in analyzing David's life and anointing. Dr. Neely is a newly retired Vice President and Academic Dean of Moody Theological Seminary. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Biblical Interpretations, Old Testament, and Biblical Preaching at the Moody Bible Institute. He has also contributed and written commentaries and books. He wrote the commentary on 1 and 2 Samuel for the “Moody Commentary on the Bible.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on Karl and Crew Showcast.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we started the week with a focus on David and how God-given ability to minister through music. Music is a form of expression that can communicate a story, event, dialogue, or the gospel. 1 Samuel 16 talks about how David would play music to soothe the troubled King Saul. Our discussion examines how God can use music to minister to us. What’s a song that God has used to minister to you? Dr. Winfred Neely also joined us in analyzing David's life and anointing. Dr. Neely is a newly retired Vice President and Academic Dean of Moody Theological Seminary. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Biblical Interpretations, Old Testament, and Biblical Preaching at the Moody Bible Institute. He has also contributed and written commentaries and books. He wrote the commentary on 1 and 2 Samuel for the “Moody Commentary on the Bible.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on Karl and Crew Showcast.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we started the week with a focus on David and how God-given ability to minister through music. Music is a form of expression that can communicate a story, event, dialogue, or the gospel. 1 Samuel 16 talks about how David would play music to soothe the troubled King Saul. Our discussion examines how God can use music to minister to us. What’s a song that God has used to minister to you? Dr. Winfred Neely also joined us in analyzing David's life and anointing. Dr. Neely is a newly retired Vice President and Academic Dean of Moody Theological Seminary. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Biblical Interpretations, Old Testament, and Biblical Preaching at the Moody Bible Institute. He has also contributed and written commentaries and books. He wrote the commentary on 1 and 2 Samuel for the “Moody Commentary on the Bible.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on Karl and Crew Showcast.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we started the week with a focus on David and how God-given ability to minister through music. Music is a form of expression that can communicate a story, event, dialogue, or the gospel. 1 Samuel 16 talks about how David would play music to soothe the troubled King Saul. Our discussion examines how God can use music to minister to us. What’s a song that God has used to minister to you? Dr. Winfred Neely also joined us in analyzing David's life and anointing. Dr. Neely is a newly retired Vice President and Academic Dean of Moody Theological Seminary. He is currently an Adjunct Professor of Biblical Interpretations, Old Testament, and Biblical Preaching at the Moody Bible Institute. He has also contributed and written commentaries and books. He wrote the commentary on 1 and 2 Samuel for the “Moody Commentary on the Bible.” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on Karl and Crew Showcast.Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Series: He Loves Us More than He Loves Himself Originally aired 05/11/2025

Cultural perceptions and misunderstandings can blur the true essence of Christ, creating a disconnect in how faith is lived and understood. Everyday situations—like the frustration of losing a TV remote—highlight the need for clarity and focus in our spiritual lives. The Nicene Creed calls believers to see Jesus not only as Savior, but as the sovereign King worthy of full allegiance. It invites a shift away from life's distractions toward a deeper, more committed relationship with Him. For those wrestling with faith or seeking renewal, this reflection offers a fresh perspective on who Jesus truly is. References: What's a Christian Anyway? by Glen Packiam TRANSCRIPT

Cultural perceptions and misunderstandings can blur the true essence of Christ, creating a disconnect in how faith is lived and understood. Everyday situations—like the frustration of losing a TV remote—highlight the need for clarity and focus in our spiritual lives. The Nicene Creed calls believers to see Jesus not only as Savior, but as the sovereign King worthy of full allegiance. It invites a shift away from life's distractions toward a deeper, more committed relationship with Him. For those wrestling with faith or seeking renewal, this reflection offers a fresh perspective on who Jesus truly is. References: What's a Christian Anyway? by Glen Packiam TRANSCRIPT

In this episode of 'I Love to Tell the Story', Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner discuss the complexities of the early Christian church as depicted in Acts 15. They explore the challenges faced by the early church regarding law observance, the inclusion of Gentiles, and the meaning of salvation within the community. The conversation highlights the diversity of beliefs and practices among early Christians and the importance of unity in faith despite these differences. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and New Beginnings 01:02 Exploring Acts 15: The Early Church's Challenges 06:12 Understanding Salvation in the Context of Community

Series: He Loves Us More than He Loves Himself Originally aired 05/04/2025

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Sermon Brainwave! This week, our hosts Karoline Lewis, Matt Skinner, and Rolf Jacobson dive deep into the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter (May 11, 2025)—including John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23, and Revelation 7:9-17—with a special focus on Good Shepherd Sunday. We've all heard the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, but what if your understanding of that metaphor is incomplete—or even "lame," as the hosts boldly say? What if the image of shepherd is not just pastoral comfort, but a royal claim, a radical act of intimacy, and a call to relationship?

Series: Lent 2025 The Cross and the Gospel of God Originally aired 04/27/2025

In a world where Christianity often feels lost—caught between political battles, cultural trends, and growing distrust—how do we find our way back to what truly matters? This series, Ancient Faith, invites us to rediscover the Nicene Creed: an ancient, tested declaration that has anchored generations of believers through every storm. We see how the Creed guards our theology, grounds us in unity, and guides us through uncertainty—calling us to live lives that make the gospel beautiful and credible once again. References: "In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity." - Often attributed to great theologians such as St. Augustine, it comes from an otherwise undistinguished German Lutheran theologian of the early seventeenth century, Rupertus Meldenius. "How is it possible that the gospel should be credible, that people should come to believe that the power which has the last word in human affairs is represented by a man hanging on a cross? I am suggesting that the only answer, the only hermeneutic of the gospel, is a congregation of men and women who believe it and live by it." - Lesslie Newbigin What's a Christian Anyway? by Glen Packiam

In this episode, Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm explore the story of the Ethiopian eunuch from Acts 8, focusing on the themes of the Holy Spirit's guidance in spreading the gospel, the inclusivity of baptism, and the significance of reaching out to those who seek God. They discuss the historical context of the eunuch's story, the implications of his baptism, and the ongoing mission of the church in being sensitive to God's leading. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to the Ethiopian Eunuch's Story 02:49 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Mission 06:02 Inclusivity in Baptism and God's Grace

Series: Lent 2025 The Cross and the Gospel of God Originally aired 04/20/2025

In our latest episode, the team continues the discussion on "Biblical Preaching at Its Best," exploring the advantages of expository preaching. Through personal anecdotes and practical insights, they emphasize how this method fosters clarity, doctrinal soundness, and spiritual growth for both preacher and congregation.

Series: Lent 2025 The Cross and the Gospel of God Originally aired 04/13/2025

We all experience moments of feeling out of place or longing for something more—like we’re searching for a true sense of home. That deep longing can actually point to a spiritual need for connection, peace, and wholeness. Jesus’ words, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” invite us to see him as the path back to that kind of life—one marked by restored relationship with God. In the middle of life’s chaos, this promise offers real hope: that we’re not alone, and that we’re being led toward a lasting home with our Creator. References: Big House by Audio Adrenaline TRANSCRIPT

What happens when the risen Jesus walks with you, but you don't recognize him? And how does scripture set our hearts on fire even before we break the bread? In this episode of I Love to Tell a Story, Rolf Jacobson, Lois Malcolm, and Jennifer Pietz unpack the rich theological and pastoral layers of the Emmaus Road story. As the disciples journey away from Jerusalem in disillusionment, they encounter a stranger who reveals scripture in a new light—rekindling faith, reframing expectations, and reigniting hope. The conversation touches on how disappointment and grief shape our faith journeys, the significance of hospitality and shared meals, and how Jesus is made known through both scripture and sacrament. The hosts invite preachers to embrace the “multimedia” revelation of the risen Christ—through emotion, intellect, and community.

In this episode, Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm explore the powerful resurrection narrative in Luke 24, focusing on the role of women as the first witnesses to the empty tomb.

Series: Lent 2025 The Cross and the Gospel of God Originally aired 04/06/2025

In John 15, Jesus identifies himself as the True Vine, highlighting the invitation of remaining connected to him, as no branch can flourish on its own. He explains that while branches that bear no fruit are cut off, those that do bear fruit are pruned to increase their production, which shows that spiritual sustainability happens by connecting and depending on him. This relationship, cultivated through prayer and time in God's Word, invites us to experience deeper intimacy with God. References: Living Fearlessly by Jamie Winship “What do I need to know?” “What do I need to do?”

What really happened at the Last Supper? In this episode, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm unpack Luke's account of this pivotal moment, exploring: - The role of Satan in influencing Judas' betrayal - Jesus' radical servant leadership and its challenge to worldly power - The human weakness and ambition at play among the disciples - The establishment of the new covenant through Christ's sacrifice Follow along with the commentary on Luke 22:1-27 by contributing author Karl Kuhn, found at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/lost-sheep-coin-son/commentary-on-luke-151-32-4. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to the Narrative Lectionary Podcast 00:52 The Role of Satan in the Last Supper 03:45 Jesus as the Model of Servant Leadership 05:42 Disputes Among Disciples: The Quest for Greatness 07:07 Human Weakness and the New Covenant

In our latest episode, the team discusses "Biblical Preaching at Its Best," exploring the advantages of expository preaching. Through personal anecdotes and practical insights, they emphasize how this method fosters clarity, doctrinal soundness, and spiritual growth for both preacher and congregation.

Series: Lent 2025 The Cross and the Gospel of God Originally aired 03/30/2025

As we approach the fifth Sunday in Lent, this episode of Sermon Brainwave dives deep into love, betrayal, and the weight of Jesus' final days. Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Karoline Lewis, and Matt Skinner as they explore the tension between Mary's extravagant love and Judas' tragic betrayal, reflecting on what these contrasting responses reveal about discipleship, grace, and faith. Commentaries for the Fifth Sunday in Lent (Year C) can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/fifth-sunday-in-lent-3/commentary-on-john-121-8-6. Interested in joining Sermon Brainwave hosts Matt, Karoline, and alum Joy J. Moore at Ghost Ranch August 11-15, 2025. Learn more at: https://www.ghostranch.org/program/g25080201/. Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/fs0QD95jB6c.

Who truly sees Jesus? In this episode of the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz unpack Luke 18:31–19:10, exploring the powerful stories of Zacchaeus and the blind man. As Jesus journeys toward Jerusalem, he encounters a blind man seeking sight and a tax collector seeking transformation. These encounters reveal a radical message of salvation, repentance, and inclusion, reminding us that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. Commentary on Luke 18:31-19:10 is forthcoming. Check back at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/zacchaeus-2/commentary-on-luke-1831-1910-2.

Series: Lent 2025 The Cross and the Gospel of God Originally aired 03/23/2025

Series: Lent 2025 The Cross and the Gospel of God Originally aired 03/16/2025