Chapter & verse: Luke 15: 1-2

02/09/2013 | Reform

‘By this time, a lot of men and women of doubtful reputation were hanging around Jesus, listening intently. The Pharisees and religion scholars were not pleased; not at all pleased. They growled: “He takes in sinners and eats meals with … Read More

Chapter & verse: Matthew 19: 24

17/07/2013 | Reform

‘If I fear for the rich man’s soul, then I ought to fear for mine’

Not long ago I was saying grace at a very smart dinner in London (like you do) and I was sat next to a very … Read More

Chapter and Verse: John 11:38-53

22/04/2013 | Reform

The Temple authorities of Jesus’ time, found Jesus subversively, infuriatingly, terrifyingly difficult to cope with. So does the Christian Church. Institutions are inevitably concerned with their own survival, reputation and flourishing, while Jesus calls his would-be followers to “deny themselves, … Read More

Chapter and Verse: Luke 10:25-37

27/03/2013 | Reform

The parable of the Good Samaritan will feature in the lectionary on 14 July this year. I am glad I am not scheduled to preach that day! What could there possibly be new to say on such a familiar text? … Read More

Chapter & verse: John 3:1-21

20/02/2013 | Reform

In re-reading the story of the Rich Man and Lazarus, “Dislocated exegesis” may be a useful method. This is the practice of reading scripture in unexpected places that may “unsettle” our reading of a familiar text. How about reading this … Read More

Chapter and Verse: Psalm 13: 1

24/01/2013 | Reform

Apparently, February is the most depressing month and the advice is not to take any major decisions. On the bright side, it’s the shortest month. Christians have been famously mocked for always looking on the bright side, so we have … Read More