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 N...
May 23, 2025•42 min•Ep. 632
In this episode of 'I Love to Tell the Story', Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner explore the themes of the Holy Spirit's role in the Christian faith, particularly through the lens of Paul's letter to the Galatians. They discuss the significance of adoption into God's family, the concept of freedom in Christ, and how the fruit of the Spirit manifests in the lives of believers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and relationship in living out one's fai...
May 22, 2025•9 min•Ep. 631
Welcome to "I Love to Tell the Story," a podcast exploring the Narrative Lectionary! In this episode, Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner explore key themes from Galatians 3, focusing on justification, the role of personal experience in faith, the purpose of the law, and the significance of baptism in forming community identity in Christ. They discuss how Paul appeals to the Galatians' experiences and the implications of the Holy Spirit's presence in their lives, while also addressin...
May 15, 2025•10 min•Ep. 630
Welcome to "I Love to Tell the Story," a podcast exploring the Narrative Lectionary! In this episode, Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner delve into the Letter to the Galatians, which will be the focus for the next three weeks leading up to Pentecost. Explore the concept of humanity's lack of true freedom in the face of sin and death, and how Christ's death and resurrection break these powers, opening a path to right relationships with God and each other. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introducti...
May 08, 2025•9 min•Ep. 629
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. ⏰Ti...
May 05, 2025•9 min•Ep. 628
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 th...
Apr 24, 2025•9 min•Ep. 627
Welcome to I Love to Tell the Story, a podcast on the Narrative Lectionary from Luther Seminary’s Working Preacher. In this episode, Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm explore the powerful and provocative story of Stephen from Acts 6 and 7. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Follow along with the commentary...
Apr 16, 2025•8 min•Ep. 626
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 reig...
Apr 09, 2025•9 min•Ep. 625
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. 💬 What does it mean to "remember" Jesus' words? 🕊️ How does the Holy Spirit empower believers in the wake of the resurrection? 🌿 What does it look like to live as people of new life and forgiveness? The conversation unpacks the angelic question, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?...
Apr 07, 2025•7 min•Ep. 624
In this episode, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm deeply dive into Luke 23:32-47, exploring the powerful and poignant account of Jesus' crucifixion. They discuss the trial, execution, and profound imagery of Jesus’ suffering, emphasizing his innocence and the significance of his final words in Luke compared to other gospels. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 The Context of Jesus's Crucifixion 02:26 The Innocent Sufferer: A Deep Dive into Luke's Narrative 05:02 Contrasting Last Words: Trust...
Apr 03, 2025•8 min•Ep. 623
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 Ku...
Apr 02, 2025•9 min•Ep. 622
Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Alan Padgett as they discuss Luke 19:29-44 for April 13, 2025. In this episode, our theological experts explore Jesus' arrival at Jerusalem—his "triumphal entry" riding on a donkey—and his heartfelt lament over the city. The conversation highlights how Luke's narrative fulfills the Messianic promises from earlier in the gospel, with Jesus explicitly declared as "king" through the adaptation of Psalm 118:26. The hosts reflect on what kind of king Jes...
Mar 31, 2025•10 min•Ep. 621
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 gra...
Mar 24, 2025•11 min•Ep. 620
Is your wealth a blessing or a barrier? In this episode, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz dive deep into Luke 16:19-31—the rich man and Lazarus parable. What does Jesus' story reveal about judgment, compassion, and discipleship? Are we using our resources to help others, or have we allowed wealth to become an idol? Join us as we unpack Christian communities' responsibility to care for the marginalized and work together to address poverty. This parable is more than just a wa...
Mar 15, 2025•10 min•Ep. 619
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. Follo...
Mar 10, 2025•10 min•Ep. 618
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz dive into Jesus’ teachings on suffering, repentance, and the powerful symbolism of the barren fig tree. As Jesus journeys to Jerusalem, he calls his followers to respond to God’s grace with urgency. What does this mean for us today? How do we make sense of tragic events, and what does true repentance look like in our lives and ministries? Join us as we explore the deeper meaning of this passage an...
Mar 03, 2025•9 min•Ep. 617
What does it truly mean to love your neighbor? In this episode of the Narrative Lectionary Podcast, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz explore one of Jesus' most well-known and challenging parables—the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). The hosts unpack the story’s radical message of compassion, cultural boundaries, and the call to action that still resonates today. Join us as we dive into the historical and theological context of this parable, reflecting on what it means to emb...
Feb 25, 2025•11 min•Ep. 616
What does Jerusalem represent in the Gospel of Luke? How does the journey to the cross shape our understanding of discipleship? In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, we explore the significance of Jerusalem as a central character in Luke’s narrative, the cost of discipleship, and the challenges of rejection and conflict that followers of Jesus face. As we approach Ash Wednesday, this conversation invites preachers and ministry leaders to reflect on the perseverance required in faith and t...
Feb 18, 2025•16 min•Ep. 615
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. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Foll...
Feb 15, 2025•12 min•Ep. 614
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. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: https://www.workingpreacher.org/ Follow along with the commentary on Luke 7:36-50 by contributing author...
Feb 08, 2025•12 min•Ep. 613
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 conv...
Feb 01, 2025•14 min•Ep. 612
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...
Jan 25, 2025•13 min•Ep. 611
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 me...
Jan 18, 2025•11 min•Ep. 610
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 ...
Jan 11, 2025•8 min•Ep. 609
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 importanc...
Jan 06, 2025•9 min•Ep. 608
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 t...
Jan 06, 2025•12 min•Ep. 607
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 Luk...
Jan 02, 2025•13 min•Ep. 606
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 bi...
Dec 14, 2024•12 min
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 i...
Dec 11, 2024•13 min
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 ref...
Dec 07, 2024•12 min•Ep. 603
