Podcast appearances and mentions of craig koester

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore the beloved Christmas story from Luke 2 in this special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day episode. While the Narrative Lectionary typically follows the Gospel of John this year, the hosts return to Luke's account because "you got to have the shepherds and the angels at Christmas." This conversation moves beyond sentimentality to reveal the cosmic significance of Christ's birth and its enduring power to speak to experiences of both homecoming and dislocation.TIMECODES:00:00 Christmas Reflections: Homecoming and Tradition02:52 The Significance of Dislocation and Divine Presence06:08 Hospitality and the Cosmic Nature of Christmas09:00 The Fulfillment of Promises and the Birth of a Savior

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore the beloved Christmas story from Luke 2 in this special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day episode. While the Narrative Lectionary typically follows the Gospel of John this year, the hosts return to Luke's account because "you got to have the shepherds and the angels at Christmas." This conversation moves beyond sentimentality to reveal the cosmic significance of Christ's birth and its enduring power to speak to experiences of both homecoming and dislocation. TIMECODES: 00:00 Christmas Reflections: Homecoming and Tradition 02:52 The Significance of Dislocation and Divine Presence 06:08 Hospitality and the Cosmic Nature of Christmas 09:00 The Fulfillment of Promises and the Birth of a Savior

Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester for the Third Sunday of Advent as they explore Isaiah 55:1-13, a climactic prophetic word from the end of Second Isaiah that offers hope at the close of exile.This episode examines the vivid marketplace imagery of God's free invitation—"Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price"—and unpacks how this passage bridges exile and restoration while pointing toward the incarnation in John's Gospel.Key Themes Explored:* The marketplace imagery of Isaiah 55 and its evocative call to spiritual nourishment* God's everlasting covenant with David and its messianic significance* The shift from literal food to spiritual sustenance and hope* How covenant relationship transforms celebration beyond surface-level feasting* The expansion of God's covenant to include all nations, not just Israel* Connections between Advent themes and Isaiah's vision of restorationTIMECODES:00:00 Hope in Exile: The Message of Isaiah 5503:01 The Invitation to Spiritual Nourishment06:33 Feasting and Relationship: Beyond the Surface08:48 Covenant and Inclusion: A Universal Message

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore John's magnificent prologue for the Fourth Sunday of Advent (December 21st). This episode examines one of Scripture's most eloquent passages - the opening 18 verses of John's Gospel that present a cosmic perspective on the incarnation.The hosts dive deep into the poetic and hymnic qualities of John's prologue, contrasting its cosmic, awe-inspiring message with the traditional nativity narratives. Rather than focusing on shepherds and mangers, this passage presents the Word becoming flesh in ethereal, almost haunting language that integrates both mind and heart.This episode unpacks the multi-dimensional concept of "zoe" (life) in Greek, which encompasses physical existence, relational connection with God, communal belonging, and resurrection promise. The hosts trace how this theme of life runs throughout John's entire Gospel - from "God so loved the world" in John 3:16 to Jesus declaring "I am the way, the truth, and the life."The discussion explores the profound imagery of light and darkness, emphasizing how people are naturally drawn to the light of Christmas Eve candles as an embodiment of humanity's deep longing for relationship with God. As Augustine wrote, "You have created us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they rest in you."TIMECODES:00:00 Introduction to the Prologue of John's Gospel02:52 The Cosmic Perspective of Jesus' Significance06:06 Exploring the Theme of Life in John's Gospel08:50 The Multidimensional Nature of Life12:07 The Relationship Between Humanity and the Divine

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore John's magnificent prologue for the Fourth Sunday of Advent (December 21st). This episode examines one of Scripture's most eloquent passages - the opening 18 verses of John's Gospel that present a cosmic perspective on the incarnation. The hosts dive deep into the poetic and hymnic qualities of John's prologue, contrasting its cosmic, awe-inspiring message with the traditional nativity narratives. Rather than focusing on shepherds and mangers, this passage presents the Word becoming flesh in ethereal, almost haunting language that integrates both mind and heart. This episode unpacks the multi-dimensional concept of "zoe" (life) in Greek, which encompasses physical existence, relational connection with God, communal belonging, and resurrection promise. The hosts trace how this theme of life runs throughout John's entire Gospel - from "God so loved the world" in John 3:16 to Jesus declaring "I am the way, the truth, and the life." The discussion explores the profound imagery of light and darkness, emphasizing how people are naturally drawn to the light of Christmas Eve candles as an embodiment of humanity's deep longing for relationship with God. As Augustine wrote, "You have created us for yourself and our hearts are restless until they rest in you." TIMECODES: 00:00 Introduction to the Prologue of John's Gospel 02:52 The Cosmic Perspective of Jesus' Significance 06:06 Exploring the Theme of Life in John's Gospel 08:50 The Multidimensional Nature of Life 12:07 The Relationship Between Humanity and the Divine

When everything feels dead and hope seems lost, can dry bones live again? In this powerful episode for the Second Sunday of Advent, hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester explore Ezekiel's stunning vision of the valley of dry bones—a message of hope for exiles who believed they were completely cut off from God.The conversation unpacks the rich Hebrew word "ruach" (spirit/breath/wind) that runs throughout Ezekiel 37, revealing how God promises to breathe new life into seemingly hopeless situations. Unlike Jeremiah who wrote from Jerusalem to the exiles, Ezekiel himself was living in exile, speaking directly into the despair of a displaced people whose city had been destroyed and who felt abandoned by God.This isn't just ancient history. Whether you're an individual feeling spiritually dried up, or part of a congregation that seems to have lost its vitality, this text speaks directly to that despair. As the hosts emphasize, the Israelites' lament—"our bones are dried up, our hope is lost, we are cut off completely"—represents the deepest kind of spiritual crisis. Yet God's response through Ezekiel is a vivid, visual promise: I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live.The discussion highlights how Advent functions as a season of holy waiting and exile, longing for home. Kathryn notes Michael Chan's powerful observation that "Ezekiel's audience lives life with an open wound," and that the journey to genuine hope begins with "a hard stare into the eyes of truth." This isn't false optimism—it's hope grounded in the God of life who has the power to bring resurrection even from death-dealing situations.Whether you're preparing a sermon, teaching a Bible study, or seeking personal encouragement, this episode offers both scholarly insight and pastoral wisdom for one of Scripture's most memorable visions of hope.TIMECODES:00:00 Advent Life and Exile02:54 Ezekiel's Vision of Hope05:52 The Power of God in Despair09:00 Understanding Yahweh's Promise11:07 Hope Amidst Exile

Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester for the Third Sunday of Advent as they explore Isaiah 55:1-13, a climactic prophetic word from the end of Second Isaiah that offers hope at the close of exile. This episode examines the vivid marketplace imagery of God's free invitation—"Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price"—and unpacks how this passage bridges exile and restoration while pointing toward the incarnation in John's Gospel. Key Themes Explored: * The marketplace imagery of Isaiah 55 and its evocative call to spiritual nourishment * God's everlasting covenant with David and its messianic significance * The shift from literal food to spiritual sustenance and hope * How covenant relationship transforms celebration beyond surface-level feasting * The expansion of God's covenant to include all nations, not just Israel * Connections between Advent themes and Isaiah's vision of restoration TIMECODES: 00:00 Hope in Exile: The Message of Isaiah 55 03:01 The Invitation to Spiritual Nourishment 06:33 Feasting and Relationship: Beyond the Surface 08:48 Covenant and Inclusion: A Universal Message

When everything feels dead and hope seems lost, can dry bones live again?  In this powerful episode for the Second Sunday of Advent, hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester explore Ezekiel's stunning vision of the valley of dry bones—a message of hope for exiles who believed they were completely cut off from God. The conversation unpacks the rich Hebrew word "ruach" (spirit/breath/wind) that runs throughout Ezekiel 37, revealing how God promises to breathe new life into seemingly hopeless situations. Unlike Jeremiah who wrote from Jerusalem to the exiles, Ezekiel himself was living in exile, speaking directly into the despair of a displaced people whose city had been destroyed and who felt abandoned by God. This isn't just ancient history. Whether you're an individual feeling spiritually dried up, or part of a congregation that seems to have lost its vitality, this text speaks directly to that despair. As the hosts emphasize, the Israelites' lament—"our bones are dried up, our hope is lost, we are cut off completely"—represents the deepest kind of spiritual crisis. Yet God's response through Ezekiel is a vivid, visual promise: I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live. The discussion highlights how Advent functions as a season of holy waiting and exile, longing for home. Kathryn notes Michael Chan's powerful observation that "Ezekiel's audience lives life with an open wound," and that the journey to genuine hope begins with "a hard stare into the eyes of truth."  This isn't false optimism—it's hope grounded in the God of life who has the power to bring resurrection even from death-dealing situations. Whether you're preparing a sermon, teaching a Bible study, or seeking personal encouragement, this episode offers both scholarly insight and pastoral wisdom for one of Scripture's most memorable visions of hope. TIMECODES: 00:00 Advent Life and Exile 02:54 Ezekiel's Vision of Hope 05:52 The Power of God in Despair 09:00 Understanding Yahweh's Promise 11:07 Hope Amidst Exile

Join Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore Daniel 3:1 [2-7] 8-30 for the First Sunday of Advent (November 30, 2025). This episode kicks off the Advent season, a season of hope and reflection. It offers lessons from the Book of Daniel on exile, hope, martyrdom, and humor/satire as one way to exercise faithfulness in the face of authority.   TIMECODES: 00:00 Advent: A Season of Hope and Reflection 02:03 Living in Exile: Lessons from Daniel 06:03 Humor and Satire in Biblical Narratives 10:01 Faithfulness in the Face of Authority 13:01 Advent as a Call to Self-Reflection 14:12 Outro

Join Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore Isaiah 9 in this week's Narrative Lectionary podcast. Moving from the northern prophets to the southern kingdom, the hosts examine Isaiah's vision of hope and justice centered in Jerusalem. This familiar passage—"For unto us a child is born"—is often associated with Advent and Handel's Messiah, but what did it mean in its original context? The conversation unpacks Isaiah's prophecy during a time of Assyrian invasion, the connection to King Hezekiah's reign, and the enduring themes of justice (mishpat) and righteousness (tzedekah) that echo through the prophetic tradition. The hosts wrestle with the tension between Isaiah's vision of endless peace and our present reality of ongoing conflict. How do we hold both the promise of Christ's birth and the "not yet" fulfillment of complete peace? Discover how prophetic hope functions not as self-generated optimism, but as a shaft of light piercing the darkness—God's future breaking into our present and pulling us forward. This episode offers fresh perspective on a well-known text, connecting it to David's covenant, the broader prophetic witness, and the already-but-not-yet reality of God's kingdom. TIMECODES: 00:00 Introduction to Isaiah and Prophetic Themes 03:05 The Context of Isaiah's Message 05:58 The Dissonance of Promise and Reality 09:01 Hope Amidst Darkness

Join Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore Jeremiah 29:1, 4-14 for Christ the King Sunday (November 23, 2025). This powerful episode examines Jeremiah's shocking letter to the Babylonian exiles, where God calls His people not to resist, but to settle down, build homes, and seek the welfare of the very city that conquered them. The hosts unpack the jarring nature of Jeremiah's message—marry, have children, pray for Babylon—in contrast to the rage expressed in Psalm 137. They explore how this ancient text speaks to anyone finding themselves in an unexpected place or life circumstance, offering hope through one of Scripture's most famous promises: "For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope" (Jeremiah 29:11). This episode offers fresh perspective on exile, hope, and what it means to live faithfully in a mixed society while maintaining covenant relationship with God. Perfect preparation for Advent's themes of hope and waiting. TIMECODES: 00:00 Introduction to Exile and Hope 03:00 Jeremiah's Message to the Exiles 06:01 Reorientation in Exile 08:59 Hope and Future in Exile

In this episode of "I Love to Tell the Story," hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester explore one of the most dramatic narratives in the Hebrew Bible: Elijah's journey to Mount Horeb and his encounter with God in the "sound of sheer silence" (or "still small voice"). After his dramatic victory over the prophets of Baal on Mount Carmel, the prophet Elijah flees from Queen Jezebel's threats and travels from the northern territories all the way to Mount Horeb in the south—literally going "off the map." Exhausted and despairing, Elijah asks God to take his life, claiming he alone is left faithful to God. But God has other plans. In a powerful theophany (divine appearance), God shows Elijah that the divine presence is not in the mighty wind, earthquake, or fire—as it was for Moses—but in the sound of sheer silence. God redirects the self-righteous prophet back to his calling, reminding him that he's not alone and that his work isn't finished yet. The hosts discuss how this passage functions as a mirror for our own tendencies toward self-righteousness, the importance of reading it dramatically to capture its emotional depth, and how God's gracious persistence calls us out of ourselves and into service for others. TIMECODES: 00:00 Introduction to the Narrative Lectionary 02:06 Elijah's Journey and Emotional Turmoil 08:16 God's Communication and the Theophany 11:49 Elijah's Vocation and God's Call 12:47 Conclusion and Reflection on God's Grace

Join Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they explore the powerful message of the prophet Amos in this week's episode of I Love to Tell the Story, a podcast on the Narrative Lectionary for November 9th, 2025. The prophet Amos brings one of the most challenging messages in Scripture—calling out the disconnect between religious observance and social justice. Though he was a farmer from the Southern Kingdom, Amos was sent to speak truth to power in the Northern Kingdom around 760-780 BCE. His ministry may have lasted only two years, but his words continue to resonate today. In this episode, we discuss: * The meaning of "The Lord roars from Zion" and Amos's prophetic mission * The dangerous disconnect between piety and justice * What biblical justice (mishpat) and righteousness (tzedek) really mean * Why Amos declares "I hate, I despise your festivals" * The call to "let justice roll down like waters and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream" * How this message connects to modern calls for justice, including Martin Luther King Jr.'s use of Amos As one of the hosts shares: "If you like the prophet Amos, you don't understand him." This episode will challenge you to examine the gap between religious practice and care for the vulnerable in our own time. TIMECODES: 00:00 Introduction to Amos and Contextual Background 02:47 The Call for Justice and Social Awareness 05:51 Understanding Justice and Righteousness 08:51 The Nature of Seeking God 12:18 Conclusion and Reflection on Amos' Message 14:21  Outro

Join Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester on "I Love to Tell the Story" as they explore the narrative lectionary reading for October 26th, focusing on the building of Solomon's Temple from 1 Kings 8:1-13. In this episode, the hosts discuss the transition from King David's reign to his son Solomon, who fulfills David's vision of building a permanent temple for worship. They examine how the temple serves as a central place where God's presence is "intensified" while not confining God to a single location - similar to how we understand the sacraments today. Key topics covered: * The significance of the Ark of the Covenant and the stone tablets at the temple's heart * How the covenant relationship ("I will be your God, you will be my people") remains central to worship * The connection between this reading and Reformation Sunday * Personal reflections on visiting St. Peter's Basilica and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher * The importance of communal worship versus privatized religion * How sacred spaces connect us to the communion of saints across centuries The hosts bring their expertise from Luther Seminary to illuminate how this ancient story speaks to contemporary questions about worship, community, and God's presence among us.

Join hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Craig Koester as they dive deep into one of the most compelling stories from the Hebrew Bible - the call and anointing of David from 1 Samuel 16:1-13, paired with the powerful verses from Psalm 51 about creating a clean heart. In this episode, we explore: * Why Samuel's mission to anoint David was an act of treason * The dramatic irony of Samuel falling into the same trap he's warned against - judging by appearances * The ancient symbolism of shepherds as kings throughout the Near East * How God's value system clashes with human expectations of leadership * The Hebrew understanding of "heart" as the seat of wisdom and discernment, not just emotion * Why the youngest son pattern appears throughout Scripture * How David's capacity for repentance becomes more important than his perfection This podcast explores the Narrative Lectionary, offering fresh insights into familiar Bible stories and their relevance for today's world. Whether you're a pastor preparing for Sunday, a student of Scripture, or someone seeking deeper understanding of these ancient texts, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, calling, and God's surprising choices.

Welcome to "I Love to Tell the Story," a podcast exploring the Narrative Lectionary! In this episode for October 12th, 2025, hosts Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferducker, and Craig Koester dive into 1 Samuel 3 - the powerful story of God calling the young boy Samuel. Join us as we explore: * The crisis of leadership in ancient Israel at the end of the judges era * Why Samuel didn't initially recognize God's voice calling him * The challenging truth-telling ministry Samuel was called to, including confronting his mentor Eli * How God's persistent calling doesn't depend on our ability but on God's faithfulness * What it means to be a "trustworthy prophet" who speaks difficult truths * The ongoing vocation of listening that defines prophetic ministry * How all Christians are called through baptism to various forms of ministry and witness This episode tackles the uncomfortable reality that sometimes God calls us to speak truth to power, even when it's difficult or involves confronting corruption. The hosts remind us that everyone - not just pastors - has callings from God in multiple areas of life.

The mark of the beast. Signs and portents. A whole dang book about the "apocalypse" at the end of the Bible.What on EARTH do we do with Revelation? Is it a literal guidebook for surviving hell? Is it a wacky political cartoon we've overblown? Or is it ... something more? (Spoiler alert: it is much more. It is a book about the end of the world - but that's not what you might think it means). Join us with the fantastic Rev. Brian Fox, longtime friend of both of us and friend of the pod, as we do a deep and wide dive into this book and what good news it has for us as we face our own end times fears.MORE ABOUT OUR GUEST:Brian Fox is an Episcopal priest and the rector of St. Paul's Episcopal Church & Montessori School in San Antonio, TX. A graduate of Sarah Lawrence College, Princeton Theological Seminary, and the Seminary of the Southwest, Brian was real-life friends with Laura and Lizzie (and attended both of their ordinations!) before they became internet friends. You can follow his church on Instagram (@stpauls-satx), and read some of his writing at Earth & Altar (https://earthandaltarmag.com/posts?author=5e703169cdb56336186f3add)If you want to read more about Revelation, Brian commends Revelation and the End of All Things by Craig Koester and Picturing the Apocalypse by Natasha and Anthony O'Hear.+++Like what you hear? We are an entirely crowd-sourced, you-funded project. SUPPORT US ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/AndAlsoWithYouPodcastThere's all kinds of perks including un-aired live episodes, Zoom retreats, and mailbag episodes for our Patreons!OUR HOTLINE - call in your questions! - 262.229.9763+++Our Website: https://andalsowithyoupod.comOur Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andalsowithyoupodcast/++++MERCH: https://www.bonfire.com/store/and-also-with-you-the-podcast/++++More about Father Lizzie:BOOK: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/762683/god-didnt-make-us-to-hate-us-by-rev-lizzie-mcmanus-dail/RevLizzie.comhttps://www.instagram.com/rev.lizzie/https://www.tiktok.com/@rev.lizzieJubilee Episcopal Church in Austin, TX - JubileeATX.org ++++More about Mother Laura:https://www.instagram.com/laura.peaches/https://www.tiktok.com/@mother_peachesSt. Paul's Episcopal Church in Pittsburgh, PA++++Theme music:"On Our Own Again" by Blue Dot Sessions (www.sessions.blue).New episodes drop Mondays at 7am EST/6am CST! 

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz dive into the powerful parables of Luke 15, exploring the Prodigal Son and the profound themes of divine love, grace, and community. Why does Jesus tell these stories together? What do they reveal about repentance, inclusion, and the heart of God? Join us as we unpack the tensions between sinners and Pharisees, the joy of redemption, and the often-overlooked perspective of the older brother. Follow along with the commentary on Luke 15:1-32 by contributing author Angela Dienhart Hancock, found at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/lost-sheep-coin-son/commentary-on-luke-151-32-4.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the significance of Moses and Elijah, the contrast between glory and suffering, and the powerful healing moments in Jesus' ministry. With thoughtful commentary, they reflect on how glimpses of the future kingdom shape faith in the present, offering insight and encouragement for preaching and teaching.

What does it mean to be truly forgiven?  In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story: A Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary, Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the moving story of the sinful woman who weeps at Jesus' feet. Join us as we explore the cultural context, her devotion's depth, and grace's transformative power.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, hosts Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker dive deep into Luke 7, where John the Baptist asks a crucial question: Is Jesus really the one? Together, they explore the tension between expectation and reality, the culture of offense, and how Christ's legacy is revealed through acts of compassion. But what does true wisdom look like? And how do actions speak louder than words when it comes to faith? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges us to see Jesus in a new light. The commentary on Luke 7:18-35 will be published shortly. We appreciate your patience! 

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive into Luke 7, particularly focusing on the stories of the centurion and the widow. The hosts explore themes of authority, worthiness, and the nature of faith in relation to Jesus' actions.  Tune in as our hosts discuss how Jesus interacts with individuals of varying social statuses and the significance of compassion over faith as a prerequisite for receiving mercy, also touching on the challenges of pastoral care in times of grief and the universal experience of death as an equalizer.

Are rules made for people, or are people made for rules?  In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive deep into Luke 6, unpacking the Sabbath controversies and what they reveal about Jesus' radical message of grace. They reflect on how Jesus redefines the meaning of the Sabbath, focusing on human well-being rather than rigid rule-keeping. Plus, they discuss the significance of Jesus selecting the twelve disciples and what it means to be a true follower in light of his teachings. If you're curious about how Jesus' actions challenge conventional religious thinking and what that means for us today, you won't want to miss this conversation!

In episode 4 of season 4, Prof. Kathryn Schifferdecker and Katie Langston speak with Professor Emeritus and Asher O. and Carrie Nasby Chair of New Testament. of Luther Seminary, Craig Koester. They gather to answer the listener submitted question, "What does the bible say about the rapture?" This episode was recorded on July 28, 2022 over Zoom. Watch the video version on Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 3 of season 4, Prof. Kathryn Schifferdecker and Katie Langston speak with Professor Emeritus and Asher O. and Carrie Nasby Chair of New Testament. of Luther Seminary, Craig Koester. They gather to answer the listener submitted question, "Where did the souls of Old Testament believers go? Heaven?" This episode was recorded on July 28, 2022 over Zoom.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL446 for June 5, 2022 (Pentecost; Rejoice in the Lord), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on May 6, 2022, in person for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL444 for May 22, 2022 (Paul's Sermon at Athens), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on May 6, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL445 for May 29, 2022 (The Christ Hymn), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on May 6, 2022, in person for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL443 for May 15, 2022 (Paul's Sermon at Athens), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 12, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL442 for May 8, 2022 (Paul and Silas), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 12, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL440 for Apr. 24, 2022 (Thomas), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 12, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Lectionary readings NL441 for May 1, 2022 (Pauls' Conversion), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 12, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL439 for Apr. 17, 2022 (Resurrection), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Mar. 11, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL437-438 for Apr. 14 & 15, 2022 (Jesus' Last Words; Jesus the Passover Lamb), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Mar. 11, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL436 for Apr. 10, 2022 (The Crucified Messiah), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Mar. 11, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL435 for Apr. 3, 2022 (Jesus Condemed), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on March 11, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL434 for Mar. 27, 2022 (Jesus and Pilate), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on March 11, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL431 for Mar. 20, 2022 (Peter's Denial), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on March 11, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

This rebroadcast Narrative Lectionary episode from 2018 focuses on John 13:1-17, featuring Profs Rolf Jacobson, Karoline Lewis, and Craig Koester.

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings NL431 for Mar. 6, 2022 (Jesus Raises Lazarus), featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Jan. 21, 2022, via Zoom for Working Preacher.

Dr. Thomas Power joins the podcast to discuss his longtime interests and work in apocalyptic thought in church history- especially in regard to the Church of Ireland in the 19th century. Tune in to learn about how multiple societal and political factors led to an apocalyptic fervor and revival of millennialist thought in the church- in ways that we still see today. Dr. Power is Professor Emeritus of Church History at Wycliffe College. He received his Ph.D. from Trinity College in Dublin. His areas of expertise include Christian history in Britain and Ireland particularly in the history of millennialism. He has authored and edited several books and publications including the forthcoming 1825: Apocalypse in Ireland (working title) and the 2019 book Trauma and Survival In The Contemporary Church: Historical Responses in The Anglican Tradition that he contributed to and edited which we discuss content from in this episode. This is the link to the book: https://www.cambridgescholars.com/product/978-1-5275-6582-1 Check more of Dr. Power's publications out on this link: https://www.wycliffecollege.ca/users/thomas-power This is a link to the commentary Revelation and the End of All Things by Craig Koester that Dr. Power mentioned and enjoyed: https://www.eerdmans.com/Products/7578/revelation-and-the-end-of-all-things-2nd-ed.aspx --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

In this episode, Ryan and Brian explore symbolism in the gospel of John. This conversation is centered around a book "https://amzn.to/3qQfc52 (Symbolism in the Fourth Gospel: Meaning, Mystery, Community)" by Craig Koester. They discuss how some individuals are representative of larger groups, the pairing of stories contrasting light and dark, and a myriad of other things. LinksBook: https://amzn.to/3dKSk1t (Symbolism in the Fourth Gospel: Meaning Mystery, Community by Craig Koester) Book: https://amzn.to/3Ap4dUi (The Word of Life: A Theology of John's Gospel by Craig Koester) Book: https://amzn.to/3dM8RSH (History and Theology in the Fourth Gospel) Relevant Previous Episodeshttps://thebiblebistro.com/podcast/e005 (The One where We Rethink John 14) https://thebiblebistro.com/podcast/e006 (The Bonus One about John 14) https://thebiblebistro.com/podcast/e012 (Exploring the Temple Theme in the Gospel of John) https://thebiblebistro.com/podcast/e013 (The Connection between Living Water & the Feast of Tabernacle)

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for May 31, 2020, (Gifts of the Spirit) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on May 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for May 24, 2020, (Death Swallowed in Life) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on May 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for May 17, 2020, (Faith, Hope, and Love) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on May 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for May 10, 2020, (Church at Corinth) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on May 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for May 3, 2020, (Church at Thessalonica) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for Apr. 26, 2020, (Peter Heals in Jerusalem) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for Apr. 19, 2020, (You Shall Be My Witnesses) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...

Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary readings for Apr. 12, 2020, (Resurrection) featuring Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker. Recorded on Apr. 1, 2020, via Zoom for Working Preacher. read more...