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!

🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: https://www.workingpreacher.org/.

Follow along with the commentary on Luke 6:1-16 by contributing author Gerald C. Liu, found at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/healing-on-the-sabbath/commentary-on-luke-61-16-4.

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Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/m0c-ezuNpY4.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson explore Luke 5 and the miraculous catch of fish, unpacking the deeper meaning behind the disciples' calling. They discuss sin, forgiveness, and God's mission, emphasizing how His call invites us to a greater purpose. Reflecting on Old Testament figures and the Holy Spirit's transformative power, they highlight how God equips flawed individuals for extraordinary work.

Follow along with the commentary on Luke 5:1-11 by contributing author Leah D. Schade, which can be found at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/sermon-at-nazareth-2/commentary-on-luke-414-30-4.

Go further in your preaching with Working Preacher:  https://www.workingpreacher.org/.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/yLYizTiZSFM.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the significance of Jesus' sermon at Nazareth, emphasizing the call to action for followers of Christ to serve the marginalized and oppressed. They explore the messianic identity of Jesus and the cultural implications of his message, particularly in the context of contemporary society. The conversation highlights the importance of being guided by the Holy Spirit in preaching and living out the faith.

Commentary on Luke 4:14-30 is forthcoming.

💌 Go further in your study with Working Preacher:  https://www.workingpreacher.org/.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/2fohKC1E70Q.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the significance of the baptism of Jesus and the role of John the Baptist as a prophet. They explore the prophetic tradition, the call to repentance, and the symbolism of fire in relation to the Holy Spirit. The conversation emphasizes the distinction between John's baptism and the baptism that Jesus offers, highlighting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.

Follow along with the commentary on Luke 3:1-22 by Gilberto A. Ruiz at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/jesus-baptism/commentary-on-luke-31-22-4.

💌 Go further in your study with Working Preacher:  https://www.workingpreacher.org/.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/7S2c1sguVa0.

In episode #606 of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson explore themes of parenting, the significance of the temple in Jerusalem, and the blessings and challenges of motherhood. 

The conversation highlights the vulnerability of Jesus in the incarnation and the deep connection between Mary and her son, emphasizing the complexities of blessings in life.

Follow along with the commentary on Luke 2:41-52 by Gilberto A. Ruiz at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/boy-in-the-temple/commentary-on-luke-241-52-7.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/rOcmZSOZ_NU.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson as they delve into the profound themes of the Christmas story, centered on the incarnation of Jesus in Luke chapter two. 🌟

✨ Topics we covered include:

- The roles of Simeon and Anna in witnessing God's promises. - Mary and Joseph's faithful observance of Jewish law. - The message of hope for both Jews and Gentiles through Christ's birth. - The work of the Holy Spirit throughout the story. - God's profound care for the lowly and marginalized. - This thoughtful conversation highlights the beauty and depth of the Christmas story, offering fresh insights into its timeless significance.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Qs80LGz6cSk.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the Christmas narrative in Luke 2, uncovering powerful themes of contrasting authorities, Mary’s deep reflections, and the significance of hospitality and praise. Explore how God’s promises—from David to the birth of Jesus—offer comfort and hope, reminding us of His sovereignty over earthly powers.

✨ Let this familiar story inspire new insights as we reflect on the rich layers of meaning within the birth of Christ.

Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the biblical text for the Fourth Sunday of Advent, focusing on the Annunciation to Mary in Luke’s Gospel. Discover the profound significance of Mary’s faithful response to the angel Gabriel, the role of the Holy Spirit in this momentous event, and how this passage bridges the Old and New Testaments.

Join us as we explore themes of faith, divine promise, and God’s surprising ways of working in the world, culminating in a reflection on Mary’s courageous acceptance of her role in God’s plan. Perfect for pastors and preachers preparing their Advent sermons or anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this powerful narrative.

Commentary on Luke 1:26-45 [46-56] by Leah D. Shade: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/jesus-birth-announced-2/commentary-on-luke-126-45-46-56-3.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/MXA1IEMPqsw.

Discover the Promise of Advent: Isaiah 61 and the Spirit of Hope

In episode 602 of I Love to Tell the Story: A Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary, hosts Joy J. Moore, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the readings for the third Sunday of Advent. Together, they unpack the rich themes in Isaiah 61, exploring its powerful message of healing, restoration, and the transformative promise of the Messiah.

Listen as the hosts illuminate the historical and spiritual context of this passage, revealing how it proclaims good news to the oppressed and joy to the weary. With its focus on the Spirit of the Lord and the enduring hope of Advent, this conversation invites listeners to embrace the season's promise of renewal and God's faithfulness.

Tune in, be inspired, and subscribe for weekly insights into the Bible’s story of redemption and grace.

Commentary on Isaiah 61:1-11 by Christopher B. Hays: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/spirit-of-the-lord-upon-me-2/commentary-on-isaiah-611-11-5.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

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Watch the Full Episode on https://youtu.be/Fcb7kTHdOX0.

In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the prophetic words of Joel. 

🌟 Themes Covered:

- Repentance and renewal - Worship as a heart posture - The Spirit's outpouring on all people   Learn how Joel’s message of mercy and grace ties into the broader biblical narrative and discover fresh insights to inspire your Advent preparations.

🎧 Tune in now for thoughtful reflections and practical connections to enrich your preaching and teaching!

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Commentary on Joel 2:12-13, 28-29 by Kristin A. Swanson: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/joel-gods-promised-spirit/commentary-on-joel-212-13-28-29-4.

Overview to Year 3 of the Narrative Lectionary: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/narrative-lectionary/introduction-to-year-3-2/47470.

Watch the Full Episode on https://youtu.be/hlGfwu4oLjM.