Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit

Jesus considered stories to be an essential teaching tool -- his preaching was filled with stories, and he used parables because he knew that people could relate to them. So if you’re looking for a well-told, imaginative, and inspirational story that will take you right to the heart of the scriptures, the newest edition of CSS’ popular Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit series is just the resource you need. Gregory Tolle draws on his gift of storytelling to illustrate Cycle A lectionary texts with thought-provoking, modern parables. This book is not only great for memorable preaching illustrations and 'sermon starters' -- it’s also a wonderful source for uplifting devotional reading.Greg Tolle offers contemporary and insightful illustrations -- as fresh as the morning’s newspaper -- to bring the biblical message to life. Used to supplement lectionary sermons or to spark spiritual and homiletic creativity, Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit will enhance every minister’s library. I highly recommend this book to anyone who endeavors to preach relevant sermons that people will remember for a long time to come.William G. Grice IIIPastor, First Congregational Church (UCC)Des Plaines, IllinoisThese stories remind us that God’s grace is always in our midst, working through both the common and everyday and through the profound and extraordinary encounters of our lives. The gospel is a profoundly personal encounter with God’s grace, and the gospel shines through in these pages. Rev. Tolle’s reflections are a testimony to the love of Christ in our midst, even in those experiences when we might least expect to find it.Mark Y. A. DaviesDean, Wimberly School of Religion and Graduate Theological CenterOklahoma City UniversityGrounded in real human experience, Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit is insightful reading that helps bring the biblical witness to light week after week. It’s a wonderful devotional guide for thoughtful Christians of any persuasion, even the occasional preacher who happens to be in a 'homiletic drought.'William E. LaBarrSenior Pastor, Lake Cities United Methodist ChurchLake Dallas, TexasGregory L. Tolle is the senior minister at First United Methodist Church in Heavener, Oklahoma. A graduate of Oklahoma City University (B.A. in Religion) and Texas Christian University (M.Div.), Tolle has had numerous articles published in Group magazine. He also serves as the Youth Coordinator for the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church. 3