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MDiv; Tim McNinch

Shows

First Reading

First Reading 2 Samuel 7:1–14aFirst Reading "Summer Shorts"! Lectionary Date: July 21, 2024 [9th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] This summer, we're trying something new: a series of video shorts with one key takeaway from the semi-continuous first reading in the RCL. This week, Tim explores the kind of "place" that King David's leadership makes.

2024-07-0806 min

First Reading

First Reading 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4–11, 19–23), 32–49First Reading "Summer Shorts"! Lectionary Date: June 23, 2024 [5th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] This summer, we're trying something new: a series of video shorts with one key takeaway from the semi-continuous first reading in the RCL. This week, Tim opens up the relatively unknown editorial history of one of the most famous stories in the Bible. Check out the video below (and subscribe on our YouTube channel)!

2024-06-1006 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 92:1–4, 12–15Morning and Evening Lectionary Date: June 16, 2024 [4th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Rachel soaks in the poetry of praise in the lectionary psalm for the week. If you are ELCA affiliated, and interested in touring "The Best of Egypt" with Rachel Wrenn, take a look at the trip details here: https://www.eliastours.com/tours/best-of-egypt-tour-with-elias-nawawieh-for-clergy. You might also enjoy the podcast series produced by Tim's students at Christian Theological Seminary! In solidarity with his students, Tim produced one of the episodes for the series (titled "Dining in the Dark").

2024-06-0317 min

First Reading

First Reading Genesis 3:8–15Resist the Cursedness Lectionary Date: June 9, 2024 [3rd Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim McNinch leads our reflection on the classic Genesis story, highlighting its expansiveness and modern resonance. Please check out the podcast series produced by Tim's students at Christian Theological Seminary! Today's episode (titled "Comfort Food") is produced by Francine Dash, who discusses Psalm 130 with our very own Rachel Wrenn! If you are ELCA affiliated, and interested in touring "The Best of Egypt" with Rachel Wrenn, take a look at the trip details here: https://www.eliastours.com/tours/best-of-egypt-tour-with-elias-nawawieh-for-clergy.

2024-05-2720 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 6:1–8Tuning Into the Voice of God Lectionary Date: May 26, 2024 [Trinity Sunday, Year B] Rosy and Tim are back with an all-new episode on Isaiah's dramatic vision of God's holiness!

2024-05-1336 min

First Reading

First Reading Genesis 22:1–14, with Ethan SchwartzThe "Best of" First Reading Easter Series We hope you’ve enjoyed this Easter season “Best of" First Reading series. We’re rounding it out this week with one of our favorite conversations, this time with Dr. Ethan Schwartz, who teaches Hebrew Bible at Villanova University. Rachel and Tim enjoyed their deep dive with Dr. Schwartz so much that they invited him back for another episode—to date he is our only repeat guest! So here is a reprise of that first conversation, a discussion about the "Akedah," the "Binding of Isaac," in Genesis 22. We’ll be back next...

2024-05-0643 min

First Reading

First Reading Hosea 11:1–11, with Johanna BosThe "Best of" First Reading Easter Series While the RCL hangs out in the Book of Acts, we at the Old Testament Lectionary Podcast are replaying some of our favorite interview episodes. This week, we are bringing out Rachel's and Tim's 2019 conversation with Rev. Dr. Johanna van Wijk-Bos. Dr. Bos taught for four decades as Professor of Old Testament at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in KY. She continues to serve the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) as an ordained pastor. In addition to her teaching, speaking, and preaching, she is a prolific author and an engaged activist, especially around...

2024-04-2248 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 30, with Stephen Breck ReidThe "Best of" First Reading Easter Series During Easter season this year, when the lectionary pulls from Acts as the “first reading,” we are re-releasing some of our favorite interviews with biblical scholars from the First Reading podcast vault. This week, we’re sharing another of our very early episodes, a conversation with the inimitable Stephen Breck Reid. Dr. Stephen Breck Reid joins Rachel and Tim for a long-form episode, focusing on Psalm 30. Steve is Professor of Christian Scriptures at George W. Truett Theological Seminary of Baylor University (and Vice Provost for Faculty Diversity and Belong...

2024-04-0848 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 43:16–21, with Vanessa LovelaceThe "Best of" First Reading Easter Series This summer, while the Lectionary uses the Book of Acts as the first reading, we are re-releasing some of our best episodes from the First Reading Podcast vault. This week, we’re going way back to one of our first episodes (#007 actually, for James Bond fans out there), back to 2019 when Rachel and Tim interviewed the amazing, delightful, Rev. Dr. Vanessa Lovelace. Dr. Lovelace has moved institutions since our interview and is now Associate Dean at Lancaster Theological Seminary, where she is also a faculty member in Hebrew Bible/Old Te...

2024-04-0231 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 25:6–9PARTY EPISODE: Easter Hope in the Middle of Chaos Lectionary Date: March 31, 2024 [Easter Sunday, Year B] Rachel, Paul, and Tim discuss the first reading for Easter in this party episode (also celebrating Rachel's birthday!). We also made a video version of this episode, which you can see on YouTube:

2024-03-1827 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29True and False Humility Lectionary Date: March 24, 2024 [Palm Sunday, Year B] Tim wrestles with the tension between humility and privilege.

2024-03-1116 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 19A Celebration of Torah Lectionary Date: March 3, 2024 [3rd Sunday in Lent, Year B] Tim plays with the cosmic imagery of this classic psalm.

2024-02-1915 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Kings 2:1–12Picking Up the Mantle Lectionary Date: February 11, 2024 [Transfiguration Sunday, Year B] Tim has some Hebrew help for this transfiguring story.

2024-01-2920 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Samuel 7:1–11, 16Live, from Trinity Lutheran Seminary, it's First Reading: Advent! Lectionary Date: December 24, 2023 [4th Sunday of Advent, Year B] Our advent episodes this year were recorded live at Trinity Lutheran Seminary's "Trinity Days" event, with an encouraging studio audience! In this episode, for Advent 4, Tim expands the scope of the New Testament reading by exploring its inspiration in the divine promise to David.

2023-12-1111 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 33:12–33Show. Me. The. Glory. Lectionary Date: October 22, 2023 [21st Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim looks at Moses' bold intercession, and finds a leader who needs reassurance.

2023-10-0915 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 20:1–4, 7–9, 12–20Responding to Grace Lectionary Date: October 8, 2023 [19th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim highlights where the "10 commandments" come in the big story.

2023-09-2514 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 14:19–31 or 15:1b–11, 20–21Impossible, Impassable Seas Lectionary Date: September 17, 2023 [16th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim says this one is very preachable!

2023-09-0414 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 3:1–15Burnin' Bush Lectionary Date: September 3, 2023 [14th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim has an angle (or is it an "angel"?) on this pivotal Exodus scene.

2023-08-2120 min

First Reading

First Reading Genesis 12:1–9; Hosea 5:15–6:6Party Episode! Lectionary Date: June 11, 2023 [2nd Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Rachel, Rosy, and Tim talk about Abram's call and Hosea's sin-sickness.

2023-05-2934 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 68:1–10, 32–35The One Who Rides Upon the Clouds Lectionary Date: May 21, 2023 [7th Sunday of Easter, Year A] It's Ascension Week! Tim tries to show that Jesus' ascension was NOT an anticlimax to the Gospel.

2023-05-0816 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 116: 1–4, 12–19When I was Hanging by a Thread Lectionary Date: April 23, 2023 [3rd Sunday of Easter, Year A] Tim looks at a prayer of thanksgiving with a theme of new life.

2023-04-1009 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 31:1–6Easter's Fresh Start Lectionary Date: April 9, 2023 [Easter Sunday, Year A] Tim finds the "Easter-y" resonance in an ancient prophetic text—and we welcome our newest co-host, Paul Essah!

2023-03-2713 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 24:12–18Jesus Cosplays Moses Lectionary Date: February 19, 2023 [Transfiguration Sunday, Year A] Tim proposes that this isn't about Jesus' divinity.

2023-02-0612 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 146:5–10A Grammatical Diva Lectionary Date: December 11, 2022 [3rd Sunday of Advent, Year A] Tim spends some time in the grammar of Hebrew Poetry to make a theological discovery.

2022-11-2812 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 46Cease and Desist! Lectionary Date: November 20, 2022 [Reign of Christ Sunday, Year C] Tim finds the metaphorical thread that holds this famous psalm together—and it's not the image of peace you think it is!

2022-11-0715 min

First Reading

First Reading Job 19:23–27aResurrection or Stubbornness? Lectionary Date: November 6, 2022 [22nd Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] Tim tries to pull the lectionary reading back into its context.

2022-10-2418 min

First Reading

First Reading Joel 2:23–32, with Mari JoerstadThe Many Days of the Lord Lectionary Date: October 23, 2022 [20th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] Locusts? Armies? Shame, vindication, and salvation? Peter's speech at Pentecost? There is a ton going on in this short reading. This week, Rosy and Tim are joined by Dr. Mari Joerstad, Academic Dean and Professor of Hebrew Bible at Vancouver School of Theology. Dr. Joerstad’s work focuses on issues of environment, land, migration, and belonging in the Hebrew Bible. A native of Norway, she did her doctoral work at Duke University in North Carolina, where she studied with one of...

2022-10-1041 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 32:7–14Changing God's Mind? Lectionary Date: September 11, 2022 [14th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] Tim explores some curious biblical "intertextuality" in this week's lection.

2022-08-2912 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 18:1–11, with Steed DavidsonThe Slipperiness of Clay Lectionary Date: September 4, 2022 [13th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Steed Vernyl Davidson. Dr. Davidson is the Dean of the Faculty, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and a Professor of Hebrew Bible / Old Testament at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, IL. He is also an ordained elder within the United Methodist Church. A native of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Davidson he earned his PhD in Hebrew Bible from Union Theological Seminary in New York. He is an expert on postcolonial dynamics in the...

2022-08-2236 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 5:1–7A Metaphor Inside a Metaphor Lectionary Date: August 14, 2022 [10th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] Tim dips into the First Reading vault to pull out a classic episode.

2022-08-0112 min

First Reading

First Reading 1 Kings 19:1–4, (5–7), 8–15aWhat Got You Here May Not Get You There Lectionary Date: June 19, 2022 [2nd Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] Tim makes connections between Elijah's divine encounter and Moses' experience.

2022-06-0608 min

First Reading

First Reading Acts 16:9–15Paul's Prophetic Travel Guide and Host Lectionary Date: May 22, 2022 [6th Sunday of Easter, Year C] Tim sees a pattern in Paul's travels.

2022-05-0909 min

First Reading

First Reading Acts 5:27–32An Authenticated Message Lectionary Date: April 24, 2022 [Second Sunday of Easter, Year C] Tim highlights a couple Old Testament resonances in the apostles' jailbreak scene.

2022-04-1112 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 126Past and Future Hope Lectionary Date: April 3, 2022 [5th Sunday in Lent, Year C] Tim preaches from the poetic grammar of Psalm 126

2022-03-2114 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 55:1–9, with Roger NamSatisfaction in the World Before Money Lectionary Date: March 20, 2022 [3rd Sunday in Lent, Year C] This week, we’re grateful to welcome Dr. Roger Nam as our guest on First Reading. Dr. Nam is Professor of Hebrew Bible and Director of the Graduate Department of Religion at Emory University. (That’s homebase and training ground for Rachel, Tim, and Rosy!) A former economic analyst, pastor, and a second-generation Korean American who has lived and worked abroad in Korea, Roger’s recent research focuses on the social structures and economics behind wealth and poverty in the biblic...

2022-03-0745 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 91:1–2, 9–16Take a Leap? Lectionary Date: March 6, 2022 [1st Sunday in Lent, Year C] Tim avoids a platitudinous reading of the Psalm.

2022-02-2109 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 17:5–10Resources for Resilience Lectionary Date: February 13, 2022 [6th Sunday after the Epiphany, Year C] Tim finds some hope hidden in Jeremiah's doom-n-gloom.

2022-01-3110 min

First Reading

First Reading Hebrews 5:1–10Melchi-who? Lectionary Date: October 17, 2021 [21th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim opts for the Second Reading (Third Reading?) since it has lots of OT in it.

2021-10-0420 min

First Reading

First Reading Genesis 2:18–24They will Become One Flesh Lectionary Date: October 3, 2021 [19th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim revisits the garden to rethink the creation of gendered humans.

2021-09-2014 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 50:4–9aThe Tongue of a Learner Lectionary Date: September 12, 2021 [16th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim sets his face like flint to offer a nonviolent interpretation of this famous text!

2021-08-3017 min

First Reading

First Reading Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6–9Carrot and Stick? Lectionary Date: August 29, 2021 [14th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim explores the gift (and threat?) of God's instruction.

2021-08-1618 min

First Reading

First Reading 1 Kings 2:10–12; 3:3–14Lead With a Listening Heart Lectionary Date: August 15, 2021 [12th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim traces the two perspectives on Solomon and finds a key leadership skill.

2021-08-0210 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Kings 4:42–44Eat and Have Leftovers Lectionary Date: July 25, 2021 [9th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim has some thoughts about the miraculous feeding of the... one-hundred?

2021-07-1215 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Samuel 6:1–5, 12b–19Don't Skip Uzzah! Lectionary Date: July 11, 2021 [7th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim highlights the way that Uzzah changes everything in this passage.

2021-06-2816 min

First Reading

First Reading 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49Are we David, or are we Goliath? Lectionary Date: June 20, 2021 [4th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim has a new historical take on a classic text.

2021-06-0714 min

First Reading

First Reading 1 Samuel 8:4-11, (12-15), 16-20, (11:14-15)Give us a King! Lectionary Date: June 6, 2021 [2nd Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] Tim investigates two sides of the monarchic coin at this turning point in Israel's remembered history.

2021-05-2415 min

First Reading

First Reading John 17:6–19The Old Testament in the New Testament: Jesus' Mosaic Intercession Lectionary Date: May 16, 2021 [7th Sunday of Easter, Year B] Tim thinks Jesus' "high priestly prayer" has more of a Moses flavor to it.

2021-05-0314 min

First Reading

First Reading John 15:1–8The Old Testament in the New Testament: A Covenantal Pruning Lectionary Date: May 2, 2021 [5th Sunday of Easter, Year B] Tim brings out how Jesus is channeling Moses in his farewell discourse.

2021-04-1917 min

First Reading

First Reading Luke 24:36b–48The Old Testament in the New Testament: All the Scriptures Lectionary Date: April 18, 2021 [3rd Sunday of Easter, Year B] Tim invites us to eavesdrop on a surreal Bible study group...

2021-04-0510 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 31:9–16An Emotional Roller Coaster Lectionary Date: March 28, 2021 [Palm/Passion Sunday, Year B] Check the archives for Rachel's take on Isaiah 50. This time around, Tim has some insights on the imagery in Psalm 31.

2021-03-1517 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 20:1–17, with Carmen Joy ImesBearing God's Name Lectionary Date: March 7, 2021 [3rd Sunday in Lent, Year B] The ten commandments are both very familiar and largely misunderstood in congregations. We hear from an expert on these issues, our guest this week, Dr. Carmen Joy Imes. Carmen is Associate Professor of Old Testament at Prairie College in Alberta, Canada. Her research has opened up the significance of the commandments for biblical scholars and "normal people" alike. All of you should immediately purchase her book, Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters. She has also authored Illustrated Exodus in Hebrew, which was...

2021-02-2243 min

First Reading

First Reading Advent Reboot: 2 Samuel 7, with Jacob WrightWho Makes a Name for Whom? Lectionary Date: December 20, 2020 [4th Sunday of Advent, Year B] What does a proposed temple-building project 3,000 years ago have to do with Advent this year? Rachel and Tim consider 2 Samuel 7 in an Advent context, and play an "encore" of their very first First Reading episode, with guest Dr. Jacob Wright, professor of Hebrew Bible at Emory University and Candler School of Theology. Jacob's latest book, War, Memory, and National Identity in the Hebrew Bible, is hot off the press (July 2020) and very relevant to the issues we discussed when we...

2020-12-0735 min

First Reading

First Reading Ezekiel 34:11–16, 20–24, with Safwat MarzoukI Myself Will Shepherd Them Lectionary Date: November 22, 2020 [25th Sunday after Pentecost, Reign of Christ Sunday, Year A] The 23rd Psalm is not the only biblical text to feature the shepherding metaphor! This week Rev. Dr. Safwat Marzouk joins Rachel and Tim to discuss Ezek 34, a powerful critique of Judah's "shepherds" and a promise of divine shepherding for the vulnerable of God's flock. Dr. Marzouk is Assoc. Professor of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at Anabapist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, in Elkhart, IN. We recommend his books, Intercultural Church: A Biblical Vision for an Age of Migration...

2020-11-0935 min

First Reading

First Reading Judges 4:1–7By the Hand of a Woman Lectionary Date: November 15, 2020 [24th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] It's the only entry from the fabulous book of Judges in the Lectionary! Tim has a couple ways to think about preaching this text about Deborah.

2020-11-0208 min

First Reading

First Reading Joshua 24:1–3a, 14–25Gotta Serve Somebody Lectionary Date: November 8, 2020 [23rd Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] At the end of Joshua, he calls the people to make a choice—but it's not an uninformed decision. Tim has some thoughts about this.

2020-10-2716 min

First Reading

First Reading Joshua 3:7–17They Crossed on Dry Ground Lectionary Date: November 1, 2020 [22nd Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim talks about how crossing the Jordan River is a bookend to the liminality of the wilderness, and what that could mean for us in this strange, time-out-of-time COVID/Election moment.

2020-10-1914 min

First Reading

First Reading Deuteronomy 34:1–12, with Denise FlandersI've Been to the Mountaintop Lectionary Date: October 25, 2020 [21st Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] The Torah ends with the description of Moses' death—kind of a downer! How can we make sense of this scene and how could it inspire a helpful sermon in the age of COVID-19? This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Denise Flanders, assistant professor of Biblical Studies at Taylor University in Upland, IN, and an adjunct professor of Biblical Languages at Fuller Theological Seminary. She is currently working on the 1–2 Samuel volume for the commentary series The Bible in G...

2020-10-1228 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 32:1–14What will the Egyptians think? Lectionary Date: October 11, 2020 [19th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim is stumped by the violence of this difficult text. Can you help him out?

2020-09-2811 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 17:1–7, with Valerie BridgemanThe People are Thirsty Lectionary Date: September 27, 2020 [17th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Is God really among us? In the midst of pandemic, natural disaster, and centuries-deep racial violence, you and your congregation might be asking this question—but you are not the first! This week, Rachel and Tim look back at this same question in the wilderness narrative of Exodus, with guest exegete, Rev. Dr. Valerie Bridgeman. Dr. Bridgeman is a perfect fit for the podcast, because she is an Associate Professor of Homiletics and Hebrew Bible at Methodist Theological School in Ohio, where sh...

2020-09-1434 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 16:2–15Manna From Heaven Lectionary Date: September 20, 2020 [16th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim helps us see how this "grumbling" story is about a growing relationship of trust.

2020-09-0811 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 12:1–14Liberation and Decimation Lectionary Date: September 6, 2020 [14th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] Tim finds some helpful angles into a text about massive loss of life.

2020-08-2410 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 3:1–15, with Debra MumfordDivine Invitation to Critique Lectionary Date: August 30, 2020 [13th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] This week, Rachel and Tim tackle a rich passage with the help of the podcast's first professional homiletician, Rev. Dr. Debra Mumford. She is Professor of Homiletics at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (Tim's alma mater). Debra is an ordained American Baptist minister, and has served in several church ministry contexts. Her academic work has centered around the topics of African American prophetic preaching, prosperity preaching, eschatology and the reign of God, and the intersections between preaching and health. And, as of this...

2020-08-1733 min

First Reading

First Reading Genesis 22:1–14, with Ethan SchwartzInvitation to an Experience Lectionary Date: June 28, 2020 [4th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A] To chat about one of the most famous stories in all three of the Abrahamic faiths (the binding of Isaac), Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Ethan Schwartz. Ethan earned his PhD at Harvard University, where he studied how the Bible presents and formulates prophetic speech. He also studies how the Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible) came together and how the Hebrew Bible was interpreted in the first century, especially in early Christian communities and sectarian Jewish communities. Ethan...

2020-06-1642 min

First Reading

First Reading Genesis 1:1–2:4aBeginnings Lectionary Date: June 7, 2020 [Trinity Sunday, Year A] Tim tackles a few preaching pitfalls, and gives some preaching angles on the opening text of the big book.

2020-05-2615 min

First Reading

First Reading Numbers 11:24–30, with Reed CarlsonAnother Outpouring of the Spirit Lectionary Date: May 31, 2020 [Day of Pentecost, Year A] For this Pentecost episode, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Reed Carlson. Reed is an Assistant Professor of Biblical Studies at the United Lutheran Seminary in Philadelphia and in Gettysburg, PA. He is also an ordained minister in the Episcopal Church and has Pentecostal roots, so he’s the perfect person to be talking to today! He earned his ThD at Harvard University, and his scholarly and church-ly interests include spirit possession in the Bible and how it relates to similar ph...

2020-05-1946 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 66:8–20Psalm of Thanks Lectionary Date: May 17, 2020 [6th Sunday of Easter, Year A] This week, Tim traces some of the contours of a thanksgiving psalm.

2020-05-0417 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 31:1–6, with Michael ChanResurrection Hope in the OT Lectionary Date: April 12, 2020 [Easter Sunday, Year A] For this Easter episode, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Michael Chan. Michael is an Assistant Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN. He did his PhD at our own Emory University. His research interests are wide ranging, from iconography to biblical emotion to Ancient Near Eastern comparative data. He is the coauthor of the book, Exploring the Bible, with Eric Barreto, and hosts the podcast, Gospel Beautiful, an interview-based podcast that features theologians, artists, and thinkers who...

2020-03-3140 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 118:1–2, 19–29Hosanna: Oh Save Us! Lectionary Date: April 5, 2020 [Palm/Passion Sunday, Year A] Thank you, preachers, for the creative work you are doing in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis! This week, Tim leads us with a peek at the psalm that inspired the Palm Sunday shouts of "Hosanna!"

2020-03-2316 min

First Reading

First Reading 1 Samuel 16:1–13How God Sees Lectionary Date: March 22, 2020 [4th Sunday in Lent, Year A] This week, Tim looks at a text that usually gets translated backwards.

2020-03-0916 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 17:1–7Testing and Quarreling Lectionary Date: March 15, 2020 [3rd Sunday in Lent, Year A] This week, Tim explores a reassuring text.

2020-03-0208 min

First Reading

First Reading Genesis 2:15–17; 3:1–7Becoming Human Lectionary Date: March 1, 2020 [1st Sunday in Lent, Year A] This week, Tim defamiliarizes a familiar text.

2020-02-1716 min

First Reading

First Reading Exodus 24:12–18, with Amanda MbuviExperiencing God's Glory Lectionary Date: February 23, 2020 [Transfiguration Sunday, Year A] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Amanda Mbuvi, Assistant Professor of Religion at High Point University in High Point, NC. She holds a BA in Philosophy and Literary Theory from Bryn Mawr College, an MTS in Biblical Studies from Palmer Theological Seminary, and a PhD in Religion from Duke University—as well as a Certificate in Nonprofit Management, Duke University! She was drawn to the Hebrew Bible because of its vivid stories and rich language, and because of the way it connects th...

2020-02-1032 min

First Reading

First Reading Deuteronomy 30:15–20Choose Life Lectionary Date: February 16, 2020 [6th Sunday after the Epiphany, Year A] This week, Tim attempts to put a familiar text into context.

2020-02-0313 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 27:1, 4–9, with Kristin WendlandWith Us in the Midst of the Wilderness Lectionary Date: January 26, 2020 [3rd Sunday after the Epiphany, Year A] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Kristin J. Wendland for a rich discussion about this week’s psalm. Kristin is Assistant Professor of Old Testament at her alma mater, Wartburg College in Waverly, IA. Her work focuses on personification, gender, and the divine-human relationship in exilic and post-exilic literature. She is an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and holds degrees from Luther Seminary (where she overlapped with Rachel) and Princeton The...

2020-01-1437 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 49:1–7A Greater Calling Lectionary Date: January 19, 2020 [2nd Sunday after the Epiphany, Year A] This week, Tim explores the power of God's calling.

2020-01-0617 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 60:1–6Arise! Shine! Lectionary Date: January 6, 2020 [Epiphany of the Lord, Year A] This week, Tim orients us to some of the themes of a classic Epiphany text.

2019-12-2316 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 35:1–10Reversal of Fortunes Lectionary Date: December 15, 2019 [3rd Sunday of Advent, Year A] This week, Tim and Rachel chat about Advent from sunny San Diego.

2019-12-0306 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 11:1-10A Shoot from Jesse's Stump Lectionary Date: December 8, 2019 [2nd Sunday of Advent, Year A] This week, Tim and Rachel chat about Advent from sunny San Diego.

2019-11-2609 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 2:1–5, with Tyler MayfieldWalk in the Light Lectionary Date: December 1, 2019 [1st Sunday of Advent, Year A] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Tyler Mayfield, Professor of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary (Tim’s alma mater!). He is the author of Literary Structure and Setting in Ezekiel (2010), which argues for a new reading of the biblical book of Ezekiel, and A Guide to Bible Basics (2018), which presents the contents of the Christian Bible to strengthen biblical literacy. Look for his forthcoming book, Unto Us A Child Is Born: Isaiah, Advent, and Our Je...

2019-11-1938 min

First Reading

First Reading Haggai 1:15b–2:9Glory in God's Presence Lectionary Date: November 10, 2019 [22nd Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Tim looks at another minor prophet—with major implications!

2019-10-2808 min

First Reading

First Reading Joel 2:23–32, with Rolf JacobsonRenewal After the Swarm Lectionary Date: October 27, 2019 [20th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Rolf Jacobson, Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, MN (Rachel’s alma mater!). With Craig Koester, Rolf developed and supports the Narrative Lectionary. His voice can be heard on two weekly preaching podcasts, “Sermon Brainwave” and “The Narrative Lectionary,” as well as singing the high lonesome with a Lutheran bluegrass band, “The Fleshpots of Egypt.” His collaborative projects include The Book of Psalms (NICOT; with Beth Tanner and Nancy deClaissé-Walfo...

2019-10-1437 min

First Reading

First Reading Lamentations 1:1–6; 3:19–26A Well-Ordered Mess Lectionary Date: October 6, 2019 [17th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Tim gives some tips on understanding and preaching from Lamentations.

2019-09-2410 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, with Carol NewsomHope in the Face of Certain Disaster Lectionary Date: September 29, 2019 [16th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Carol Newsom. One of the giants of modern biblical scholarship, Carol recently retired from her post as the Charles Howard Candler Professor of Old Testament at Candler and a senior fellow at Emory's Center for the Study of Law and Religion. Carol came to Candler in 1980, only the second woman to hold a tenure-track position. In 2005, she became a C.H. Candler Professor, a university-based endowed chair. Her research focuses...

2019-09-1650 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 4:11–12, 22–28Judgment and Natural Consequences Lectionary Date: September 15, 2019 [14th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Tim helps us face the consequences of persistent evil.

2019-09-0210 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 2:4–13Living Water and Cracked Cisterns Lectionary Date: September 1, 2019 [12th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Tim invites you to sip from the living water.

2019-08-1910 min

First Reading

First Reading Jeremiah 1:4–10, with Brent StrawnA Prophet's Call Lectionary Date: August 25, 2019 [11th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Brent Strawn. Brent joined the Duke Divinity School faculty as Professor of Old Testament in 2019 after teaching for eighteen years at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, where he was the William Ragsdale Cannon Distinguished Professor of Old Testament. Brent is a prolific author, but we would highly recommend to our audience one of his most recent books, The Old Testament Is Dying: A Diagnosis and Recommended Treatment (Baker Academic, 2017). Brent is...

2019-08-1248 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 5:1–7A Wedding Toast Gone Wrong Lectionary Date: August 18, 2019 [10th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Tim explores a metaphor within a metaphor.

2019-08-0512 min

First Reading

First Reading Hosea 11:1–11, with Johanna BosLove Overcomes Wrath Lectionary Date: August 4, 2019 [8th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Johanna van Wijk-Bos. Dr. Bos taught for four decades as Professor of Old Testament at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in KY. She continues to serve the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) as an ordained pastor. In addition to her teaching, speaking, and preaching, she is a prolific author and an engaged activist, especially around issues of equity in terms of gender, race, and sexual orientation. Among her many great books, we recommend for our audience, Making...

2019-07-2248 min

First Reading

First Reading Amos 7:7–17Truth to Power Lectionary Date: July 14, 2019 [5th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Tim leads us through some sharp words from the prophet.

2019-07-0210 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Kings 5:1–14, with Justin ReedGod's Power Manifested Through the Marginalized Lectionary Date: July 7, 2019 [4th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Justin Reed joins Rachel and Tim for a conversation all about the healing of Naaman in 2 Kings 5. Justin is Assistant Professor of Old Testament/Hebrew Bible at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary in KY, and an ordained Baptist minister. A PhD candidate at Princeton Theological Seminary, his research and teaching interests include ethnicity in the Hebrew Bible, inner-biblical interpretation, Bible in popular culture, and reception history. Justin’s dissertation explores Genesis 9:18-29, the passage about “Noah’s curse.” Throughout millennia...

2019-06-2550 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Kings 2:1–2, 6–14Double Portion of Prophecy Lectionary Date: June 30, 2019 [3rd Sunday after Pentecost, Year C] This week, Tim explores the passing of the torch from Elijah to Elisha.

2019-06-1705 min

First Reading

First Reading Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31Get Wisdom Lectionary Date: June 16, 2019 [Trinity Sunday, Year C] This week, Tim introduces us to Woman Wisdom.

2019-06-0310 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 97, with Marc BrettlerRighteousness and Justice are the Base of God's Throne Lectionary Date: June 2, 2019 [7th Sunday of Easter, Year C] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Dr. Marc Zvi Brettler, one of the leading scholars in the field of Hebrew Bible. He is Professor Emeritus and former chair of the Department of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies at Brandeis University. He has also taught at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Duke University, Yale University, Brown University, Wellesley College, and Middlebury College. He is actively involved in many aspects of Jewish communal life, and has served...

2019-05-2051 min

First Reading Psalm 148Hallelu, Hallelu, Hallelu! Lectionary Date: May 19, 2019 [5th Sunday of Easter, Year C] Tim’s up for a dip into the Hallels of Psalm 148.

2019-05-1009 min

First Reading

First Reading Psalm 30, with Stephen ReidMourning and Dancing: the “Rhythm & Blues” of Life Lectionary Date: May 5, 2019 [3rd Sunday of Easter, Year C] Dr. Stephen Reid joins Rachel and Tim this week for a long-form episode, focusing on Psalm 30. Steve is Professor of Christian Scriptures at George W. Truett Theological Seminary of Baylor University. He earned his PhD at Emory University and has held a number of academic positions during his career. Dr. Reid is ordained in the Church of the Brethren, and you can find his preaching tips and exegetical work on WorkingPreacher.org. His areas of expertise include the Psal...

2019-05-1048 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 65:17–25Easter Sunday: Hope for the Now Lectionary Date: April 21, 2019 [Resurrection of the Lord, Year C] Prepping for Easter? Tim challenges you to preach about hope from Isaiah 65.

2019-05-1013 min

First Reading

First Reading Isaiah 43:16–21, with Vanessa LovelaceGod is Doing Something New Lectionary Date: April 7, 2019 [5th Sunday in Lent, Year C] Rachel and Tim are joined this week by Rev. Dr. Vanessa Lovelace, a Hebrew Bible professor at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, GA. In addition to her position at ITC, Dr. Lovelace is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. She is the co-editor of the book, Womanist Interpretations of the Bible: Expanding the Discourse (with Gay Byron). The ITC website describes her current project, a monograph “that analyzes how church teachings and public policy, in combination with pa...

2019-05-1013 min

First Reading

First Reading Joshua 5:9–12Rolling Away the Reproach—The End of an Era Lectionary Date: March 31, 2019 [4th Sunday in Lent, Year C] Tim takes the lead this week, reflecting on the context and wordplay in Joshua 5.

2019-05-1011 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Samuel 11:1–15, with Caralie FochtLectionary Date: July 29, 2018 [10th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] This week, Rachel and Tim are joined by Caralie Focht (Emory University) to discuss the infamous story about Bathsheba and David. How can preachers address the issues of assault in this text with pastoral sensitivity toward those in their congregations who have experienced (or perpetrated) similar trauma?

2018-07-1620 min

First Reading

First Reading 2 Samuel 7, with Jacob WrightLectionary Date: July 22, 2018 [9th Sunday after Pentecost, Year B] In this, First Reading's very first episode ever, Rachel and Tim introduce the podcast and delve into King David's plan to build a temple for God. With help from Dr. Jacob Wright (Emory University) they discuss the historical context of temple building, try to figure out why God is hesitant to let David do it, and offer a few potential angles for preaching this text. Learn more about Dr. Jacob Wright, and check out his books: David, King of Israel, and Caleb in Biblical Memory and...

2018-07-0933 min