Shows
Listen for the WordAugust 7, 2022 Luke 12:32-40 Lessons about Faithful DiscipleshipThis week discuss the follow-up to the Parable of the Rich Fool, where Jesus reinforces the importance of faithful discipleship from the perspective of trusting confidence in God’s goodness as well as a recognition of the need for living out the principles of the kingdom of God in our lives. We also discuss the various ways that the Reformers framed this “watchfulness,” or faithful discipleship, in their day, as well as some of implications for us today.2022-08-0200 minListen for the WordJuly 31, 2022 Luke 12:13-21 The Parable of the Rich FoolThis week we talk about the Parable of the Rich Fool, in which Luke introduces Jesus’ perspective that “one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possession,” a theme we’ll come back to several times as we continue through Luke’s travel narrative. We also talk about the rise of wealth and a middle class in the renaissance and the reformation, and how that affected their take on this passage. Finally we discuss how to apply Jesus’ perspective on wealth to our lives today.2022-07-2600 minListen for the WordJuly 24, 2022 Luke 11:1-13 Jesus Teaches his Disciples about PrayerThis week we discuss Jesus’ teaching about prayer, including the different versions of Lord’s Prayer, and especially the fact that Jesus instructs his disciples to pray with the confidence that God knows their needs and delights in their good. We also discuss the interpretation of the Lord’s Prayer in various confessions from the Reformed tradition.2022-07-1900 minListen for the WordJuly 17, 2022 Luke 10:38-42 Jesus Visits Martha and MaryThis week take a close look at the episode where Jesus visits Martha and Mary, and we discuss how Luke emphasizes Mary’s role of listening to the word but that Jesus implicitly endorses both Martha’s diakonia and Mary’s listening to the word. We explore how this passage was interpreted (sometimes harshly) in the medieval church and by the Reformers, using Diego Velazquez’ Christ in the House of Martha and Mary. We conclude by discussing the implications for today.2022-07-1200 minListen for the WordJuly 10, 2022 Luke 10:25-37 The Parable of the Good SamaritanThis week we talk about the parable of the “Good Samaritan” in the context of Jesus’ day and the scandal it would have provoked. We look at how Calvin used this passage to promote some of his key theological themes, and we discuss how to be “neighbors” to those who threaten us in our day.2022-07-0500 minListen for the WordJuly 3, 2022 Luke 10:1-20 The Mission of the Seventy (Two)This week we discuss a unique episode in Luke’s Gospel, the sending of the Seventy (Two) “others” to extend Jesus’ ministry as well as that of the Twelve Apostles. We discuss how this relates to themes of the urgency and danger of the work of proclaiming the Kingdom, as well as the fact that Jesus’ commission was extended to these “others” to meet the pressing need to get the word out.2022-06-3000 minListen for the WordJune 26, 2022 Luke 9:51-62 Jesus Sets His Face Towards JerusalemThis week we take a look at a couple of interesting episodes that introduce the “Journey to Jerusalem” section of Luke’s Gospel, and the way they emphasize the cost of choosing to follow Jesus. We discuss an example of how Calvin’s biblical interpretation reflects the shortcomings of his day, as well as the emergence of the “protestant ethic” in the Reformation. Finally we discuss the question of whether that commonly held ethic does justice to Jesus’ call to discipleship.2022-06-2100 minListen for the WordJune 19, 2022 Luke 8:26-39 Jesus Saves the Gerasene DemoniacThis week we discuss an unusual story: the healing/saving of the Gerasene demoniac, which displays Jesus’ saving power for the first time in Gentile territory. We also discuss the theology surrounding “demons” in the Medieval Catholic church and among the Reformers. Finally, we talk about ways to approach this passage without endorsing a Medieval understanding of “demons” and “exorcism.”2022-06-1400 minListen for the WordJune 12, 2022 John 16:12-15 Trinity SundayThis week we take a look at the way the Farewell Discourse follows the pattern of Trinitarian language in the NT: weaving together the work of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We also discuss the Pseudo-Athanasian creed and it’s significance for our understanding of Trinity. Finally, we talk about some ways to communicate the importance of Trinity for our faith.2022-06-0700 minListen for the WordJune 5, 2022 John 14:8-17 The Promise of the Holy SpiritThis week we discuss the way the Farewell Discourse in John’s Gospel addresses the issue of Jesus’ departure, and how the disciples would be empowered to continue his work. We also discuss the Reformers’ views on how we know God based on the cult of saints and indulgences in the medieval Catholic church. Finally we discuss some of the contemporary challenges this passage poses for us.2022-05-3100 minListen for the WordMay 29, 2022 John 17:20-26 That They May Be OneThis week we return to the prayer in John 17. We engaged in a wide-ranging discussion, from the nature of the unity, to the purpose of the unity, to the view of the “world” in the Fourth Gospel. We also discuss how the Reformers used this passage to counter some of the Roman Catholic theology of the day regarding salvation. Finally we discuss what to make of the fact that Jesus probably didn’t actually pray this prayer!2022-05-2400 minListen for the WordMay 22, 2022 John 14:23-29 Introduction to the Farewell DiscourseThis week’s lesson takes us into a wide-ranging discussion of a passage in John’s Gospel meant to provide assurance to believers in his “absence.” In light of the details of the text and the way the Reformers treated it, we discuss the authorship of John’s Gospel, biblical interpretation, the work of the Spirit, and the question of whether faith is a “work,” among other topics.2022-05-1600 minListen for the WordMay 15 2022 John 13:31-35 The New CommandmentThis week we discuss Jesus’ “New Commandment” to love in light of the meal Jesus shared with his disciples, and especially his act of washing their feet. We also discuss John Calvin’s interpretation of the passage, which is connected with several Reformation themes. We close by discussing what it looks like to love one another following the example of Jesus’ humble service.2022-05-1100 minListen for the WordMay 8 2022 John 10:22-30 Jesus is Rejected by the Jewish LeadersThis week we take a look at the “follow-up” to the “Good Shepherd” discourse we discussed last year. Jesus emphasizes his protection of his “sheep,” which is matched by the Father’s protection, and claims that “I and the Father are one.” The Reformers discussed this passage with reference to Predestination. We conclude by exploring Predestination for us today.2022-05-0500 minListen for the WordMay 1 2022 John 21:1-19 Jesus Appears to Seven DisciplesThis week we discuss the “epilogue” to John’s Gospel, its purpose in relation to the Gospel as a whole and particularly with reference to Peter’s status, and how Jesus’ “pastoral” approach to “rehabilitating” Peter is translated into Peter’s advice to pastors in 1 Peter. Some of these ideas are already brought out by the Reformers, and they also use the passage to discuss their concerns.2022-04-2600 minListen for the WordApril 24 2022 John 20:19-31 Jesus Appears to the DisciplesThis week, we are re-broadcasting an episode from last year, in which we discuss Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances according to John’s Gospel, including his encounter with “Doubting” Thomas. On that basis we talk about the process by which our faith grows.2022-04-1900 minListen for the WordApril 17 2022 Luke 24:1-12 The Resurrection of JesusThis week we talk about Luke’s account of the women at the empty tomb, how they are given the news that Jesus had become “the Living One,” and they shared that news with the disciples. We also talk about the challenges of “talking about” Jesus’ resurrection in our world.2022-04-1200 minListen for the WordApril 10 2022 Luke 23:1-49 The Innocent Jesus is Faithful to the point of Death.This week we discuss Luke’s account of Jesus trials, sentence, and crucifixion. What we find is that Luke’s account is unique in comparison with Mark’s version from last year. Luke consistently portrays Jesus as an innocent man wrongfully condemned to death, who remains faithful to God to the very end. We also discuss the Reformer’s views on the various details of the narrative, that came from their unique context. Finally, we discuss the question of whether the Gospel account is “anti-Semitic.”2022-04-0600 minListen for the WordApril 3 2022 John 12:1-8 Mary Anoints JesusThis week take a look at the story of Mary anointing Jesus in preparation for his impending death. We discover a complex set of relationships among the Gospels regarding this event. We also discuss the themes that the Reformers pulled out of the passage, and discuss the significance of Mary as a woman performing this act of honoring Jesus in preparation for his death.2022-03-2900 minListen for the WordMarch 27, 2022 Luke 15:1-3, 11-32 The Parable of the Prodigal SonThis week discuss the Parable of the Prodigal Son, and discover that it might easily be known as the Parable of the Prodigal Father, because the Father extends his compassion rather “recklessly” to both the prodigal son and the elder brother. We discuss how this parable was used in the time of the Reformation, looking especially at an article by Barbara Haeger on woodcuts by Cornelius Anthonisz, both of which illustrate Reformed themes: the danger of superstition and the marks of the true church. We conclude by discussing why Luke chose to include this parable in his Gospel, and what that...2022-03-2200 minListen for the WordMarch 20, 2022 Luke 13:1-9 The Urgency of RepentanceThis week discuss another strange text, the passage where Jesus warns that “unless you repent, you will all perish.” In light of the crisis of God’s kingdom, as well as the coming of the Son of Man, Jesus is stressing the urgency of repentance in terms of aligning one’s life with God’s purposes. But the parable of the fig tree also stresses God’s patience and mercy in allowing us ample opportunity to make that change. We discuss this passage in it’s biblical context, in view of the Reformers’ assumptions about God’s wrath, and in view of popular Am...2022-03-1500 minListen for the WordMarch 13, 2022 Luke 13:31-35 Jesus' Lament over JerusalemTThis week talk about what seems like a strange text, but it could be read as a kind of “extra” passion prediction in the middle of the long journey to Jerusalem in Luke’s Gospel. We also discuss the place of Jerusalem historically and for the Reformers. Finally we talk about how this strange passage can offer us encouragement and hope in our own discipleship.2022-03-0800 minListen for the WordMarch 6, 2022 Luke 4:1-13 The Temptation of JesusThis week we discuss the temptation of Jesus in Luke’s Gospel, especially focusing on how this experience demonstrates his faithfulness to God’s purpose, and therefore his readiness to begin the ministry of bringing “release” to the people. We take a look at the ideas of the Reformers, especially in contrast to the Catholic tradition, and we discuss how Jesus serves as a model for true faith.2022-03-0100 minListen for the WordFebruary 27, 2022 Luke 9;28-36 The TransfigurationThis week we take a look at Luke’s version of the Transfiguration, and the way in which this event not only confirms Jesus’ identity as announced by the “heavenly voice” at his baptism, but also points forward to how he will fulfill his mission. In that sense, the transfiguration is a preview of the cross, the resurrection, the ascension, and his coming again with power. The church quickly saw the Transfiguration as confirmation of the Incarnation, and we discuss how that influenced the Reformers. We also take a look at the implications for our calling to follow Jesus today.2022-02-2200 minListen for the WordFebruary 20, 2022 Luke 6:27-38 The "Sermon on the Plain" (part 2)This week we discuss the section of Luke’s “Sermon on the Plain” that deals with the command to “Love Your Enemies.” This is the central principle of the “justice of God’s Kingdom” that Jesus advocates: a way of life defined by giving without thought of return that emulates God’s unconditional and generous love. We discuss the efforts of the Reformers given the reality of life and our own thoughts about how to deal with the challenge of this text.2022-02-1400 minListen for the WordFebruary 13, 2022 Luke 6:17-26 The "Sermon on the Plain" (part 1)This week we discuss the beginning of the “Sermon on the Plain” in Luke’s Gospel, especially focusing on the beatitudes and woes that make very clear that the kingdom of God is intended to bring “release” (both in terms of salvation and in terms of social justice). We discuss the Reformers’ attempts to deal with the challenge this text poses, as well as how to understand it in our day.2022-02-0700 minListen for the WordFebruary 6, 2022 Luke 5:1-11 Jesus Calls the First DisciplesThis week we take a look a Jesus’ calling the first disciples in Luke’s Gospel, which is unique in comparison with the call narratives in the other Gospels. We discuss the nature of vocation in the Reformation in comparison with the Medieval Church, and we wrap up with a discussion of the nature of vocation today, affirming that we all have gifts that God delights in using.2022-02-0100 minListen for the WordJanuary 30, 2022 Luke 4:21-30 Jesus Rejected at Nazareth (part 2)This week discuss the second part of Luke’s version of the story about Jesus’ rejection at Nazareth. When Jesus speaks of the “Year of the Lord’s Favor,” the people at the synagogue initially responded positively. But he provoked them by reminding them of two stories that show that God’s grace cannot be constrained by us. We discuss the implications of this for the Reformation era and for today.2022-01-2400 minListen for the WordJanuary 23, 2022 Luke 4:14-21 Jesus Rejected at Nazareth (part 1)This week discuss Luke’s version of the story about Jesus’ rejection at Nazareth. But unlike Matthew and Mark, Luke not only locates this event at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, he also frames it so that it defines who Jesus is and what is mission is about. Taking a cue from the Reformers, we discuss paradigms of salvation that affect our people.2022-01-1800 minListen for the WordJanuary 16, 2022 John 2:1-11 The Wedding at CanaThis week take a look at the “sign” that Jesus worked at the Wedding at Cana. John says that he did this to “reveal his glory” and so that his disciples believed. We also discuss how the Reformers interpreted this passage in widely varying ways, but primarily with an emphasis on the importance of marriage. We conclude by discussing the theme of savoring the joy of life and creation that seems to play an important role in the Gospel text.2022-01-1000 minListen for the WordJanuary 9, 2022 Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 The Baptism of Jesus (Luke's Version)This week we discuss the account of Jesus’ baptism in Luke’s Gospel, which has some subtle but important differences from the “normal” way we envision it. We also discuss the role of sacraments in the Reformation, and baptism in particular. Finally, we close with a discussion of two questions: “Did Jesus need to be baptized?” and “Do we need to be baptized?”2022-01-0400 minListen for the WordJanuary 2, 2022 John 1:1-18 The Word Became FleshThis week we are re-broadcasting our podcast from last year on John 1:1-18, discussing the passage as the primary source for our understanding of the incarnation, how the Reformers dealt with this passage, and how Juergen Moltmann sees incarnation as a reflection of God's eternally self-communicating love.2021-12-2800 minListen for the WordDecember 26, 2021 Luke 2:41-52 The Boy Jesus in the TempleThis week we discuss the episode when Jesus went to Jerusalem with his parents for the Passover, and when his parents left Jesus remained behind due to his commitment to God’s purpose. The Reformers bring our several themes, including Jesus’ relationship with his human parents and his relationship with God. We tend to read this passage with the assumption that it reflects Jesus as divine, but we discuss that in our final segment.2021-12-2100 minListen for the WordDecember 19, 2021 Luke 1:39-55 Mary's Visit to Elizabeth and Mary's SongThis week we are rebroadcasting our episode from last year on Mary’s Magnificat. Here are a couple of images that will help with the discussion: Madonna and Child by Giotto and Madonna Litta by Da Vinci.2021-12-1900 minListen for the WordDecember 5, 2021 Luke 3:1-6 John the BaptistThis week discuss the role of John the Baptist as the herald of salvation in light of Luke’s unique presentation of him and his ministry. We discuss some of the interesting ways theologians in the Reformation era used this text. Then we conclude with a discussion of the victory of God’s grace.2021-11-2900 minListen for the WordNovember 28, 2021 Luke 21:25-36 The Coming of the Son of ManThis week we begin a new liturgical year with the end of Jesus’ discourse on the coming of the Son of Man in Luke’s Gospel. We also discuss how this passage was interpreted during the Reformation and particularly a woodcut depicting the alignment of the planets in 1524 as a tumultuous event. Finally, we talk about how to approach this passage from the perspective of Advent.2021-11-2300 minListen for the WordNovember 21, 2021 John 18:33-38 Jesus Before PilateThis week in preparation for “The Reign of Christ Sunday,” we take a look at Jesus’ trial before Pilate and the somewhat surprising things Jesus says. We also discuss how this passage influenced ideas of the Reformation and even the notions of the divine right of kings. Finally, we talk about how a thoroughgoing confidence that “The Lord Reigns” is essential to the Christian faith.2021-11-1700 minListen for the WordNovember 14, 2021 Mark 13:1-8 The Destruction of the TempleThis week discuss the beginning of what is known as the “Apocalyptic Discourse,” where Jesus speaks about the coming destruction of the Temple, as well as the signs of the coming of the “Son of Man.” We also discuss the various ways apocalyptic thinking affected the church through the middle ages and the reformation up to today, particularly in the form of dispensationalism.2021-11-1000 minListen for the WordNovember 7, 2021 Mark 12:38-44 The Widow's OfferingThis week we take a look at a passage that combines Jesus’ criticism of the scribes for taking advantage of vulnerable widows together with his commendation of the Widow’s offering of two small coins at the Temple. Mark portrays this widow as the example not only of discipleship but also what it means to love God with all one’s “life.” This is a pattern in Mark’s gospel: those who are seemingly insignificant become the exemplars for faith.2021-11-0100 minListen for the WordOctober 31, 2021 Mark 12:28-34 The First CommandmentThis week we talk about Jesus’ answer to a scribes’ question about the “first” commandment. In response, Jesus says to love God and love your neighbor. This interpretive framework serves as the foundation for the biblical message: because we experience God’s love for us, we respond by loving God, which means we will seek to follow God’s ways. That is primarily defined by loving others through mercy and justice. We discuss how the Reformers echoed this message, particularly Calvin. We discuss the importance of keeping this framework intact as we seek to live our Christian lives.2021-10-2100 minListen for the WordOctober 24, 2021 Mark 10:46-52 The Healing of Blind BartimaeusThis week we discuss an episode in Jesus’ ministry that is easily overlooked, but that represents the way in which “the first shall be last and the last shall be first” is woven into the narrative fabric of Mark’s Gospel. This blind man whom Jesus heals, like many other “outsiders” in Mark’s Gospel, is held up as an example of true faith and discipleship.2021-10-2100 minListen for the WordOctober 17, 2021 Mark 10:35-45 The Request of James and JohnThis week we discuss Jesus’ response to the request of James and John to sit at Jesus’ right and left in his kingdom. This is the final episode in which Jesus seeks to impress upon the twelve his call to follow him in service to others. We also discuss Calvin’s approach to this passage and the interesting theological implications he draws from it. Finally, we talk about how this theme impacts us in ministry today.2021-10-1100 minListen for the WordOctober 10, 2021 Mark 10:17-31 The Rich ManThis week we look at Jesus’ encounter with a man who asked how he could inherit eternal life, and Jesus responded by telling him to obey God’s commands. Although the man insisted he had done so, Jesus challenged him to sell his property and give the proceeds to the poor, but he was unwilling to part with his wealth. We discuss wealth as a rival to faith in God, as well as the role of the Ten Commandments in the Christian life.2021-10-0400 minListen for the WordOctober 3, 2021 Mark 10:2-12 Teaching about DivorceThis week we discuss Jesus’ response to the Pharisees’ question about divorce. It seems clear that in Mark’s Gospel Jesus’ position is that marriage is to be a permanent relationship and remarriage after divorce is not proper as long as one’s former spouse is living. We survey the history of marriage and divorce in the church, and see that the Reformers took a pastoral approach. We try to explore what that pastoral approach would look like in our day.2021-09-2200 minListen for the WordSeptember 26, 2021 Mark 9:38-50 Applications of the Command to ServeThis week our podcast takes us to a passage that seems disjointed, but when we look at it through the lens of the disciples’ argument about greatness and Jesus’ teaching about service it may make sense. This passage gives us the chance to look at biblical interpretation, both in the setting of the Reformation and today.2021-09-1500 minListen for the WordSeptember 19, 2021 Mark 9:30-37 Jesus Again Foretells His Death and ResurrectionThis week we discuss Jesus’ second passion prediction in the Synoptic Tradition, in light of the fact that immediately afterwards his disciples argued about who among them would be greatest in the kingdom they expected Jesus to usher in. He tells them to be last of all and servant of all, and to reinforce that he says that “whoever welcomes a child in my name welcomes me.” We discuss the place of children in the family during the Reformation, and then reflect on Jesus’ call to a path of “downward mobility.”2021-09-0600 minListen for the WordSeptember 12, 2021 Mark 8:27-38 Peter's Declaration about Jesus and Jesus Foretells his Death and ResurrectionThis week we look at a passage we discussed on Feb 21, 2021 in it it’s fuller context. Jesus asks the disciples who they think he is, and he responds by telling them that the Son of Man must be rejected and die and then be raised to life. We discuss Calvin’s understanding of this, and the reflect on what it all means for us in light of Bonhoeffer’s “Discipleship” and Moltmann’s “Crucified God.”2021-09-0100 minListen for the WordSeptember 5, 2021 Mark 7:24-37 The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith and the Healing of a Deaf ManThis week we discuss two episodes that show Jesus’ interactions with people outside Jewish territory. In the first, a woman seeks out Jesus to heal her daughter, and basically, won’t take “no” for an answer! In the second, Jesus heals a deaf man whom some friends had brought to him. This has implications for understanding Jesus’ ministry, and for understanding the scope of the Kingdom of God in Mark’s Gospel.2021-08-2600 minListen for the WordAugust 29, 2021 Mark 7:1-23 The Tradition of the EldersThis week go back in to Mark, taking a look at the debate between Jesus and the religious leaders about following “The Tradition of the Elders” concerning matters of ritual purity. The Reformers apply this discussion to worship, and we take a cue from them in our own discussion.2021-08-1000 minListen for the WordAugust 22, 2021 John 6:56-69 The Words of Eternal LifeThis week we wrap up our tour of John 6 with the conclusion to the story: many of Jesus’ disciples turn back, but Peter affirms on behalf of the Twelve that Jesus has the “words of eternal life.” We see that in fact the whole chapter presents a Christology in which Jesus is the one who gives life. We also discuss more of the Reformers’ views about this, some of which are rather “literal.” We conclude with a discussion of taking the Bible “literally.”2021-08-0700 minListen for the WordAugust 15, 2021 John 6:51-58 The Bread of Life Discourse, part twoThis week we discuss the second part of Jesus’ “Bread of Life” discourse. His speaking about eating his flesh and drinking his blood in connection with faith seems to constitute a Johannine version of the words of institution for the Lord’s Supper. We also discuss the “Eucharistic Controversy” in the Reformation era, and finally ask, “What difference does it make” how we view the Lord’s Supper.2021-08-0200 minListen for the WordAugust 8, 2021 John 6:35, 41-51 The Bread of Life Discourse,This week we discuss the first part of Jesus’ “Bread of Life” discourse. While Jesus calls the crowds to faith in himself as the “bread of life,” they continue to misunderstand. The Reformers disagree about whether Jesus’ words have eucharistic significance. And we discuss what it means to be “drawn” to Jesus.2021-07-2700 minListen for the WordAugust 1, 2021 John 6:24-35 The Bread From HeavenThis week we discuss Jesus' interaction with the crowds that searched for him after he fed the 5000. This passage prepares us for the "Bread of Life" discourse next week.2021-07-1100 minListen for the WordJuly 25, 2021 John 6:1-21 Jesus Feeds the 5000 and Walks on the WaterThis week we discuss John’s version of Jesus’ feeding the 5000 and walking on the water as a basis for the “Bread of Life” discourse that will follow in John 6. We also look at Calvin’s more pastoral insights on the implications for the Christian life. Finally, we discuss the uniqueness of John’s account in light of the particular perspectives of John’s Gospel as a whole.2021-07-0600 minListen for the WordJuly 18, 2021 Mark 6:30-56 Jesus Feeds the 5000 and Walks on the WaterThis week we discuss Mark’s version of Jesus’ feeding the 5000 and walking on the water in light of the very negative assessment he gives regarding the faith of the Twelve. We discuss Calvin’s take on this, especially his emphasis on the role of Jesus’ teaching, and the connection between the Lord’s Supper and all our meals. Finally we discuss the implications of Jesus’ compassion for our ministry today.2021-06-3000 minListen for the WordJuly 11, 2021 Mark 6:14-29 The Death of John the BaptistThis week we discuss the death of John the Baptist in light of the corruption in the Herodian family, and in light of the hope of the resurrection as the final resolution of all injustice.2021-06-2400 minListen for the WordJuly 4, 2021 Mark 6:1-13 The Rejection of Jesus at Nazareth and The Mission of the TwelveThis week we discuss the episode at Nazareth in Mark’s Gospel in comparison with Matthew and Luke. We discuss how Jesus’ exercise of the “authority” of the kingdom of God is impacted by the unbelief of the people. We also discuss how even the disciples, who in Mark’s Gospel still don’t understand, are nevertheless enabled by Jesus to do the work of the kingdom, because it was God’s grace that was doing the work.2021-06-1500 minListen for the WordJune 27, 2021 Mark 5:21-43 A Girl Restored to Life and A Woman HealedThis week we talk about Jesus’ healing of a woman who’s faith he commends by saying “your faith has saved you.” Her faith then becomes the example for a Jewish Synagogue leader, whose twelve-year-old daughter dies, but Jesus raises to life. We talk about the miracles in general as they relate to our faith today.2021-06-0700 minListen for the WordJune 20, 2021 Mark 4:35-41 Jesus Stills a StormThis week we discuss Jesus’ stilling the storm as Mark frames it in comparison with Matthew and Luke. In Mark’s Gospel, the focus is on yet another demonstration of Jesus as the one who has the authority to enact the kingdom of God. We discuss the Reformers’ interpretations regarding the faith of the Apostles, and then we conclude with an examination of the theology behind the notion that “Jesus stills the storms of life”2021-06-0200 minListen for the WordJune 13, 2021 Mark 4:26-34 Parables of the KingdomThis week we look at a couple of parables that talk about the paradox between the relatively “unimpressive” beginnings of the Kingdom of God and the extensive influence of the Kingdom. The Reformers discussed this passage in light of the “true church”; we will discuss this in light of woodcut by Lucas Cranach on “The True Church”: https://artsandculture.google.com/asset/the-false-and-the-true-church-lucas-cranach-the-younger/3gHrD-YpBcBEug .2021-05-2400 minListen for the WordJune 6, 2021 Mark 3:20-35 Jesus and BeelzebulThis week we address the accusation made by some scribes that Jesus was casting out demons by the power of "Beelzebul," which would have been an offense worthy of stoning. We examine the fluidity of "demonology" in the NT era, and the way in which the church fathers in the third and fourth Centuries developed what we could call the concept of "Satan" that is prevalent today.2021-05-1900 minListen for the WordMay 30, 2021 John 3:1-17 Trinity SundayThis week we discuss Jesus' interview with Nicodemus with a view toward looking into the way the NT weaves the theology of trinity into the message. We also look into the history of trinity in the church and the importance of trinity for our lives today.2021-05-1100 minListen for the WordMay 23, 2021 John 15:27-28; 16:4b-15 The Work of the SpiritThis week we discuss Jesus’ promise to send the “Helper/Encourager/Mediator,” the “Spirit of truth” who would lead the disciples into all truth and enable them to bear witness to him. We discuss the role of the Spirit in our Christian lives.2021-05-0400 minListen for the WordMay 16, 2021 John 17:9-16 Jesus Prays for His DisciplesThis week we look Jesus’ “prayer” for his disciples in John 17 in light of the setting of the Johannine community. Although this is a difficult passage because of the negative image of the “world,” there is a sense in which it seems to echo the idea that Jesus has completed the work the Father gave him to do.2021-04-2900 minListen for the WordMay 9, 2021 John 15:9-17 Abiding in Christ's LoveThis week we look at the continuation of Jesus’ discourse instructing disciples to “abide in his love” and we learn that “bearing fruit” in discipleship means obeying Jesus’ commands, primarily the command to love one another by laying down our lives for each other.2021-04-2100 minListen for the WordMay 2, 2021 John 15:1-8 Jesus the True VineThis week we look at what it means to “abide in Jesus” as the “true vine” and thus “bear much fruit” in discipleship, in the context of John’s Gospel, the theology of the Reformers, and today.2021-04-1600 minListen for the WordApr 25, 2021 John 10:11-18 Jesus the Good ShepherdThis week we discuss Jesus’ discourse in which he calls himself “The Good Shepherd” who lays down his life for the sheep, and who knows them, because God has “given” them to him. In Christy’s segment, we take a look at a woodcut based on this parable, Beham’s Sheepshed. You can find the image here: https://www.akg-images.co.uk/archive/-2UMDHUWBW90M5.html2021-03-1700 minListen for the WordApr 18, 2021 Luke 24:36-48 Jesus Appears to His DisciplesThis week we discuss Luke’s version of Jesus’ appearance to his disciples, and the unique way in which they respond. Unlike the other Gospels, in Luke it takes more than the empty tomb, and even more than the experience of the resurrected Jesus to awaken the disciples’ faith.2021-03-1500 minListen for the WordApr 11, 2021 John 20:19-31 Jesus Appears to the DisciplesThis week we discuss Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances according to John’s Gospel, including his encounter with “Doubting” Thomas. On that basis we talk about the process by which our faith grows.2021-03-1300 minListen for the WordApr 4, 2021 Mark 16:1-8 The Resurrection of JesusThis week we look at the unique way in which Mark concludes his Gospel: with the story of the women at the empty tomb. We will explore the various endings of Mark in the development of the New Testament, and discuss the Reformers' views on this passage, as well has how we "identify" Jesus today.2021-03-0200 minListen for the WordMar 28, 2021 Mark 15:1-14 The Trial, Crucifixion, and Death of JesusThis week we look at Mark’s account of Jesus’ trial, crucifixion, and burial. The text is full of irony, as well as allusions to prominent passages from the Hebrew Bible. We look at the Reformers’ interpretation of this crucial event, and discuss current applications.2021-02-2500 minListen for the WordMar 21 2021 John 12:20-33This week in our podcast we discuss a turning point in John's narrative of Jesus' life--his awareness that his "hour" has come to glorify the Father and to be glorified by the Father. We also talk about the implications of a view of salvation that is too small for God's sovereign grace.2021-02-0900 minListen for the WordMar 14 2021 John 3:1-21This week we take an in-depth look at John 3:1-21, examining the themes of John's Gospel, the way in which the Reformers interpreted them, and how we can read this passage in light of a theology of grace today.2021-02-0200 minListen for the WordMar 7 2021 John 2:13-23 Jesus Cleanses the TempleIn our podcast this week we take a good look at the account of Jesus cleansing the Temple in John's Gospel. We discuss the biblical emphases, the role this text played in the Reformation, and it's implications for today.2021-01-2600 minListen for the WordFeb 28 2021 Mark 8:31-38This week we discuss Jesus' prediction of his death and his call to follow him in a path of discipleship that will lead to a cross. We look at what that meant in the context of Mark's Gospel, as well as for the Reformers and for us today.2021-01-1900 minListen for the WordFeb 21, 2021 Mark 1:9-15 The Temptation of Jesus2021-01-1200 minListen for the WordFeb 14, 2021 Mark 9:2-9 The Transfiguration2021-01-1200 minListen for the WordFeb 7, 2021 Mark 1:29-39 Jesus Heals Many at Simon’s House2021-01-1200 minListen for the WordJan 31, 2021 Mark 1:21-28 The Man with an Unclean Spirit2020-12-1000 minListen for the WordJan 24, 2021 Mark 1:14-20 The Beginning of the Galilean Ministry2020-12-0200 minListen for the WordJan 17, 2021 John 1:43-51 Jesus Calls Philip and NathanielIn our podcast this week, we discuss the various titles used for Jesus in John's Gospel in light of Jesus' self-references and in light of the setting for the Fourth Gospel. We also discuss the influence of Erasmus on our reading of John's Gospel, and how we can reclaim some of these titles for Jesus today.2020-12-0200 minListen for the WordJan 10, 2021 Mark 1:1-11 The Proclamation of John the Baptist and the Baptism of Jesus2020-11-2700 minListen for the WordJan. 3, 2021 John 1:1-18 The Word Made Flesh2020-11-1400 minListen for the WordDec 27, 2020 Luke 2:22-40 Jesus is Presented at the Temple2020-11-0300 minListen for the WordChristmas Eve 2020 Isaiah 9:2-7 The Righteous Reign of the Coming King2020-10-2700 minListen for the WordDec. 20, 2020 Luke 1:46-55 The Magnificat: Mary’s Song of Praise2020-10-2000 minListen for the WordDec. 13, 2020 Isaiah 61: 1-11 The Good News of Deliverance2020-10-0800 minListen for the WordDec. 6, 2020 Isaiah 40:1-11 God’s People are Comforted2020-09-2900 minListen for the WordNov. 29, 2020 Isaiah 64:1-9 A Plea to Open the Heavens2020-09-2200 minListen for the WordNov. 22, 2020 Matthew 25:31-46 The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats2020-09-1400 minListen for the WordNov. 15, 2020 Matthew 25:14-30 The Parable of the Talents2020-09-0700 minListen for the WordNov. 8, 2020: Matthew 25:1-13 The Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids2020-09-0100 minListen for the WordNov. 1, 2020: Matthew 23:1-12 Jesus Denounces Scribes and Pharisees2020-09-0100 minListen for the WordOct. 25, 2020: Matthew 22:34-46 The Greatest Commandment2020-09-0100 minListen for the WordOct. 18, 2020: Matthew 22:15-22 The Question about Paying Taxes2020-09-0100 minListen for the WordOct. 11, 2020: Matthew 22:1-14 The The Parable of the Wedding Banquet2020-09-0100 minListen for the WordOct. 4, 2020: Matthew 21:33-46 The Parable of the Wicked Tenants2020-09-0100 minListen for the WordSept. 27, 2020: Matthew 21:23-32 The Authority of Jesus Questioned2020-08-2600 minListen for the WordMATTHEW 20:1-16Welcome to the first Podcast for “Listening for the Word.” Dr. Alan Brehm and Dr. Christine delve into the Revised Common Lectionary for the celebration of Trinity Sunday looking at how the doctrine informed the early church, developed during the Protestant Reformation and informs our church toay.2020-08-2400 min
The Even Stevens Ranked Podcast!A.J. Trauth Interview (Alan Twitty)We're so excited to provide another cast + crew interview for you all! We chatted with THE AJ Trauth, the beloved Alan Twitty, to talk all things Even Stevens and then some!
AJ shares a ton of fond memories, casting stories and behind-the-scenes tidbits, gives us the scoop on some fascinating Disney Channel history, spitballs insanely cool reboot ideas with us, ranks his Top 5 favorite episodes... and SO much more!!!
At a certain point this "interview" becomes 3 millennials getting nostalgic and talking about our favorite movies, the importance of quality kids programming and the downside of...2020-08-1800 min