Workingpreacher.org Sermon Brainwave

What if the Prodigal Son isn’t the only one who’s lost? In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, Profs. Karoline Lewis, Rolf Jacobson, and Matt Skinner explore the parable of the Prodigal Son, examining its themes of grace, family dynamics, and reconciliation — all with fresh insights for 2025. They discuss how the parable's title shapes interpretation, unpack artistic depictions of the story, and connect its themes to the broader biblical context, including Joshua, Psalm 32, and 2 Corinthians. Join us as we explore these Lenten themes and offer insights to inspire your preaching this season. Commentaries for the Fourth Sunday in Lent can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/fourth-sunday-in-lent-3/commentary-on-luke-151-3-11b-32-6. *  *  * Interested in joining Sermon Brainwave hosts Matt, Karoline, and alum Joy at Ghost Ranch August 11-15, 2025. Learn more at: https://www.ghostranch.org/program/g25080201/. Don’t forget to like, subsc

What does it mean to bear fruit in a season of waiting? In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, Profs. Karoline Lewis, Rolf Jacobson, and Matt Skinner explore the lectionary texts for the third Sunday in Lent, diving into themes of repentance, spiritual growth, and God's abundant grace. They unpack the parable of the fig tree, reflecting on the tension between God's patience and the call to bear fruit. The conversation also addresses the complexities of suffering and how 1 Corinthians 10 warns against idolatry, inviting listeners to reflect on their relationship with God. Join us as we explore these Lenten themes and offer insights to inspire your preaching this season. Commentaries for the First Sunday in Lent can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/third-sunday-in-lent-3/commentary-on-luke-131-9-6. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Exploring the Texts for Lent 09:17 Understanding Suffering and Repentance 20:13 Navigating 1 Corinthians 10: Temptati

Join the Sermon Brainwave hosts, Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson, as they dive into the themes of Lent, the significance of Jerusalem, and Jesus' journey toward the cross. This episode explores the role of prophets, the human condition, and God's covenant with Abram, while reflecting on the beauty of the Lord in Psalm 27. Discover deeper insights into Jesus' sacrifice and what it means to live in accordance with the cross of Christ. Commentaries for the Second Sunday in Lent can be found on the Working Preacher website at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/second-sunday-in-lent-3/commentary-on-luke-1331-35-6. *  *  *   Interested in joining Sermon Brainwave hosts Matt, Karoline, and alum Joy at Ghost Ranch August 11-15, 2025. Learn more at: https://www.ghostranch.org/program/g25080201/. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectio

Preaching this Lent? The wilderness journey of Jesus offers profound insights into identity, vocation, and the church’s mission today.In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, Profs. Karoline Lewis, Rolf Jacobson, and Matt Skinner dig into the testing of Jesus in the wilderness—what it reveals about identity, vocation, and trust in God. Guided by the week's commentaries, they wrestle with key questions:

How do you preach on one of the most mysterious and awe-inspiring moments in the Gospels? In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson explore the Transfiguration of Jesus, diving deep into its biblical foundations, theological weight, and emotional impact. From its connections to the Exodus narrative to its themes of divine glory, sovereignty, and liberation, this conversation unpacks the transformative power of the event—for the disciples then and for believers today. Follow along with the commentaries for the Transfiguration of Our Lord on March 2, 2025: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/transfiguration-of-our-lord-3/commentary-on-luke-928-36-37-43a. *  *  *   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working

Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson as they discuss the readings for the Fourth Sunday after Epiphan. Together, they into the powerful texts for the seventh Sunday after Epiphany. From Luke’s Sermon on the Plain to the story of Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers, we explore the resounding call to community, transformation, and trust in God’s justice. Join us as we reflect on what it means to delight in the Lord and embrace the hope of resurrection in the future and our daily lives. Commentaries for the Seventh Sunday after Epiphany on February 23, 2025 can be found at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/seventh-sunday-after-epiphany-3/commentary-on-luke-627-38-3. Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/NukFsbnzwHg.

In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, hosts Karoline Lewis, Rolf Jacobson, and Matt Skinner dive into Luke’s Sermon on the Plain. This episode unpacks the meaning of the Beatitudes, Jesus’ healing ministry, and the profound theological implications of blessings and woes. The conversation also highlights the resurrection’s central role in Christian faith, urging preachers to call their congregations beyond the status quo into deeper trust in the Lord.  How do these texts shape our understanding of discipleship and resurrection living? Tune in for insights to inspire your preaching this week! Commentaries for the Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany (Year C) for February 16, 2025 can be found at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/sixth-sunday-after-epiphany-3/commentary-on-luke-617-26-3. Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers! Learn more by visiting h

Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Karoline Lewis, and Matt Skinner for a conversation on the Revised Common Lectionary texts for the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany (Year C) on February 9, 2025. Commentaries for the Fifth Sunday after Epiphany are forthcoming. Check back at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/fifth-sunday-after-epiphany-3/commentary-on-luke-51-11-8 soon! Resources mentioned: "Rhonda Vincent - Fishers of Men" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Dyi1qRyXfE. Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio (Spanish-language Gospel). We're here for you, working preachers at https://www.workingpreacher.org/. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/M5Y8Zci0K0I.

In this episode of Sermon Brainwave, hosts Karoline Lewis, Rolf Jacobson, and Matt Skinner discuss the significance of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas, and explore the roles of Simeon and Anna in Luke's Gospel. They highlight the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding the narrative and shaping Christ's life, as well as the themes of anticipation and fulfillment in the lives of these characters. The conversation emphasizes the resonance of Simeon's words with the elderly and the church's role in bearing witness to God's goodness. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/LNH3bZ9i8h0 [There is a separate episode (#1005) for Fourth Sunday after Epiphany (C) available on the site for download at https://www.workingpreacher.org/podcasts/1005-fourth-sunday-after-epiphany-c-feb-2-2025] Text commentary on Luke 2:22-40 by Mitzi Smith is available at: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/presentation-of-our-lord/commentary-on-luke-222-40-9

Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the readings for the Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, focusing on Jesus' sermon in Luke 4 and its implications. They explore the roles of prophets, the inclusivity of Jesus' message, and the connection to Jeremiah's call. The conversation emphasizes the importance of love, faith, and hope in the context of prophetic ministry and the challenges faced by preachers today.  [There is a separate episode (#1006) for Presentation of Our Lord Gospel text available at https://www.workingpreacher.org/podcasts/1006-presentation-of-our-lord-feb-2-2025] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Fourth Sunday after Epiphany 01:10 Gospel reading, Luke 4:21-30: Exploring Jesus' Sermon and Its Reception 03:00 The Role of Prophets: Elijah and Elisha 06:00 Understanding the All: Inclusivity in Jesus' Message 09:12 First reading, Jeremiah 1: Jeremiah's Call and Its Connection to Jesus 11:54 The Nature of Prophetic Ministry 15:02 Second reading, 1 Corinthians 13: The Greate

Join Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson explore the themes of Jesus' first public sermon in Luke, the implications of his message, and the participatory nature of scripture. They discuss the significance of the messianic claim, the poetic elements of Psalm 19, and the metaphor of the body of Christ in Corinthians, emphasizing the interconnectedness of believers and the importance of interpretation in preaching. Commentaries for the Third Sunday after Epiphany are forthcoming! *  *  *   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio. We're here for you, working preachers! Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/siHwSqIFkoA.

Join Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson for a discussion of the significance of the Wedding at Cana as a manifestation of Jesus' grace and abundance, connecting it to the themes of the Epiphany season.  This week, tune in as our hosts explore the unexpected blessings that come from Jesus' actions, the role of his mother in initiating his ministry, and the implications of Isaiah 62 in relation to John 2. Commentaries for the Second Sunday after Epiphany are forthcoming! Keep an eye out at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/second-sunday-after-epiphany-3/commentary-on-john-21-11-9. *  *  *   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Reminder: We have commentaries for the Revised Common Lectionary, the Narrative Lectionary, and Evangelio. We're here for you, working preachers! Engage with us or learn more at https://www.workingpreacher.org/ Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/FYS

Join Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson as they explore the Baptism of Our Lord through the Gospel of Luke.  Tune in as they delve into the Holy Spirit's role, connections to Isaiah 43, and the inclusion of Samaritans in Acts 8. This engaging discussion highlights baptism's transformative power, the significance of identity, and the enduring impact of God's voice. Resources Mentioned: Terry Fretheim's Enter the Bible video on Isaiah 43: https://enterthebible.org/video/god-says-i-love-you-isaiah-43. Follow along with the commentaries for the Baptism of Our Lord at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/baptism-of-our-lord-3/commentary-on-luke-315-17-21-22-6. Bautismo de Nuestro Señor: https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/baptism-of-our-lord-3/comentario-del-san-lucas-315-17-21-22-5. *  *  *   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! Watch this episode on You

Join Profs. Matt Skinner, Karoline Lewis, and Rolf Jacobson as they discuss the readings for the second Sunday of Christmas, focusing on John 1, Ephesians 1, and Jeremiah 31. They explore incarnation, grace, truth, love, and life themes, emphasizing the cosmic significance of Jesus' birth and the implications for believers today. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of the readings and the overarching message of hope and restoration in the Christmas season. Follow along with the commentaries for the Second Sunday of Christmas at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/second-sunday-of-christmas-3/commentary-on-john-11-9-10-18-10. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/pHtwAmyExAo.

In this special 1000th episode of Sermon Brainwave, the hosts reflect on the significance of the childhood of Jesus, the roles of Mary and Joseph, and the connections between the Christmas story and the Old Testament. They discuss the importance of treasuring memories and teachings, the role of Psalms in the Christmas season, and how Christmas impacts Christian living. The episode concludes with a heartfelt farewell to Joy J. Moore as she embarks on a new journey as president of Northern Seminary. Follow along with the commentaries for the First Sunday of Christmas at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/first-sunday-of-christmas-3/commentary-on-luke-241-52-6. *  *  *   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! https://www.workingpreacher.org/ https://www.facebook.com/workingpreacher https://www.instagram.com/workingpreacher/ Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/ctln5NSKaiE.

Join hosts Matt Skinner and Karoline Lewis for a special Christmas Day episode! Together, they dive into the profound themes of Luke 2 and Isaiah, reflecting on the shepherds' journey, Mary's pondering heart, and the transformative power of God's mercy. This conversation invites you to embrace the call to share the good news and be agents of mercy in the world. Tune in and let the Christmas message inspire you! Follow along with the commentaries for Christmas Day at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/christmas-day-nativity-of-our-lord-iii/commentary-on-john-11-14-10. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Ctw_N941hqM.

Join hosts Karoline Lewis and Matt Skinner as they unpack the readings for December 24, 2024. Together, they dive into the Nativity story in Luke 2, the prophetic hope of Isaiah, and the grace-filled message of Titus. Discover fresh insights into the ordinariness of the Christmas story, the authority of Jesus, and the profound implications of Christmas for our lives today. Tune in and reflect on the joy and hope of this sacred season! Follow along with the commentaries at https://www.workingpreacher.org/commentaries/revised-common-lectionary/christmas-eve-nativity-of-our-lord/commentary-on-luke-21-14-15-20-25. *  *  *   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! https://www.workingpreacher.org/ https://www.facebook.com/workingpreacher https://www.instagram.com/workingpreacher/ Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Ctw_N941hqM.

Join Professors Karoline Lewis and Matt Skinner for the Fourth Sunday of Advent (Year C) on December 22, 2024.  Join us for an engaging exploration of these Advent readings as we reflect on God’s faithfulness and the radical message of Mary’s song. Highlights of the discussion include: * The prophetic power of Mary’s Magnificat. * The intimate connection between Mary and Elizabeth. * How the themes of Micah and Hebrews shape our understanding of God’s promises. * Recognizing God’s presence in unexpected places as we await the fulfillment of hope in Jesus' birth. *  *  *   Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to stay connected with more insightful lectionary discussions! https://www.workingpreacher.org/ https://www.facebook.com/workingpreacher https://www.instagram.com/workingpreacher/ Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/hpdzimdRpTE.

Join Professors Karoline Lewis, Joy J. Moore, and Matt Skinner for the Third Sunday of Advent (Year C) on December 15, 2024.  In this episode, we explore John the Baptist's powerful messages, the transformative call to repentance, and the invitation to bear the fruits of righteousness.

Join Profs. Karoline Lewis, Joy J. Moore, and Matt Skinner for a conversation on the Revised Common Lectionary texts for the Second Sunday of Advent on December 8, 2024.   Get inspired for the second Sunday of Advent with this episode of Sermon Brainwave! The hosts dive into the lectionary readings, unpacking the role of John the Baptist, the transformative power of repentance, and the prophetic voices of Zechariah and Malachi. Explore themes of salvation, God's active presence, and the call to embody love this Advent season. Perfect for preachers, teachers, and anyone seeking deeper insights into the Advent journey. Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/eR8fXu1W-Sc.