The miracles of Jesus are some of the most striking passages in the New Testament -- but how can we translate their sometimes arcane historical content for contemporary sensibilities? Jerry Schmalenberger's original solution uses the analogy of old 45 rpm records, which were usually released with a "hit" side and a "flip" side. In 13 well-crafted sermons on miracle stories in the Revised Common Lectionary, he initially focuses on the traditional approach to each miracle (the "A" or "hit" side), and then offers a fresh look at the "other side of the story" (the "B" or "flip" side)....

Providing a fresh, timely reflection "every week" on assigned scripture passages can be one of a pastor's most daunting tasks. But when time or inspiration is flagging and you need the jump-start of creative ideas, the latest edition of the classic CSS resource "Lectionary Preaching Workbook" is just what the doctor ordered Prominent pastor, former seminary president, and prolific author Jerry Schmalenberger draws upon the experiences of a lifetime in the ministry to help readers effectively share God's word with crisply written insights. He's created an outstanding set of practical aids to...

Written as a companion volume to Schmalenberger's acclaimed CSS title "The Miracles Of Jesus And Their Flip Side," this book takes an imaginative look at twelve of Jesus' parables by examining their traditional interpretation (the "hit" side), and then turning them on their ear to see the "other side of the story" -- a different perspective with relevance for our modern-day lives (the "flip" side).
For example, in addition to warning about the dangers of building on sand instead of rock, Schmalenberger considers how to rebuild after a flood. In the parable of the wedding banquet, he...

Delivering a fresh, timely reflection every week on assigned scripture passages is a formidable challenge for even the most resourceful preacher. So when you're short on time or need creative ideas to jump-start your sermon preparation, the newest edition of this classic CSS resource is just what the doctor ordered Prominent pastor, former seminary president, and prolific author Jerry Schmalenberger draws on the experience of a lifetime in the ministry to help you prepare vital, incisive messages that are sure to connect with the people in your pews. The "Lectionary Preaching Workbook...

This book contains 475 illustrations, anecdotes, metaphors, and narratives useful to any preacher or public speaker. The contents are indexed according to 63 topics, ranging from Advent, Angels, Blessings, Church... to Prayer, Pentecost, Resurrection, Spiritual Life, Stewardship, Truth, TV Commercial, and Worship.
Schmalenberger, who has served as senior pastor in some of America's largest Lutheran churches and who has taught preaching at Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, gathered this collection from his own preaching journals.
Jerry Schmalenberger is a graduate of Wittenberg...