Genesis 14:1-24
Commentary
Reflections and connections for 1-11, 12-16, and 17-24 Years ago, we would ask a family friend who was part of the “Greatest Generation” about his experience in World War II. Part of our inquiry was the result of our curiosity; another part was our interest in honoring him. His memories and his narration were always…
Genesis 42
Commentary
Textual points Outline of some not-to-miss items in the essential story • Jacob sends 10 sons to Egypt to buy grain during a time of famine and protectively keeps Benjamin close to home. • Little did anyone know that the Egyptian in charge of grain to whom the brothers would go was none other than…
Judges 6:(1-10), 11-32, (33-40)
Commentary
Angles, insights, and illustrations as entry points into the text and sermon Theological themes that should not be missed: The God of Israel is faithful and responsive to Israel’s cries even when Israel is not faithful. The God of the Exodus who delivered his people out of Egypt will raise another leader who will rescue…
Matthew 15:1-20
Commentary
Angles, insights, and illustrations as entry points into the text and sermon Inside and Out Preachers as well as parishioners know intuitively that there is much at stake in a text like Matthew 15. What is at stake here, and how high the stakes are becomes obvious as we probe more deeply. In the text,…
Luke 1:5-25
Commentary
Introduction of important themes – teeing up the text Luke’s gospel begins with his acknowledgement that he is not an eyewitness but a researcher, corresponder and narrator of what he will share with us. The author has done his homework. Seen as a unit, Luke and Acts reveal a keen awareness of important theological themes…
Revelation 12:1-17
Commentary
Special Handling Instructions: Revelation’s Imagery Older preaching audiences are going to be more challenged by Revelation’s images than younger ones. Younger audiences have been shaped by apocalyptic television and movie images which include tsunamis higher than skyscrapers, seismic yawns that swallow whole cities, and asteroids whose impact effectively uncreate creation. Younger hearers have had an…
About Marc Nelesen