19th Sunday after Pentecost Luke 18:1-8

Jeremiah 31:27-34

Psalm 119:97-104

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5

Luke 18:1-8

lectionary:

Season of ordinary time, Year c

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

Keywords (13)

Scripture (4)

Date Added

Oct 30, 2024

AIM Commentary

Ancient lens

What's the historical context?

Jesus' Strangest Tales

Occasionally Jesus tells a parable that just doesn’t quite fit the framework of his teaching.

Already in Luke we had such a case in the Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-9). When the steward had to give his master an account of his fiscal responsibility, he had no means to pay what he owed. So he went out and grabbed his master’s debtors and readjusted their debts in their favor. And the master commended the unjust steward for his prudence (16:8)! Jesus tells

Discussion Questions

Have you ever prayed persistently for a long time for something you wanted very badly? What was God's answer to your prayer?
Have you ever had a hard time asking God for something? What changed it for you—or did it change?
Is it ever hard for you to be honest with God for what you want?
Why do you think that Jesus, here as well as elsewhere, uses bad people to teach spiritual lessons?…

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Lectionary Cycles

Author

C. Hassell Bullock

C. Hassell Bullock is the Franklin S. Dyrness Professor Emeritus of Biblical Studies at Wheaton College (IL), where he served with distinction for 36 years. As a renowned scholar in Old Testament studies, particularly in the area of Psalms and Old Testament poetry, Dr. Bullock’s work has made a profound impact on biblical scholarship and Christian ministry. He holds degrees from Samford University (Birmingham, AL), Columbia Theological Seminary (Decatur, GA), and Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (Cincinnati, OH), which reflect his deep academic commitment to the Scriptures.

Dr. Bullock is widely recognized for his expertise in the Psalms, contributing significantly to both scholarly and pastoral conversations on the subject. His publications include The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic). His insights into the poetic structure and theological depth of the Psalms have enriched the understanding of these sacred texts for students, scholars, and church leaders alike.

In addition to his academic contributions, Dr. Bullock has also served Presbyterian congregations in Alabama and Illinois over the course of his 40-year teaching and ministry career, blending scholarly insight with pastoral care. He is deeply committed to his family, sharing life with his wife, Rhonda, his college sweetheart. Together, they have raised a son, Scott, and a daughter, and they take great joy in the lives of their five grandchildren.

Dr. Bullock’s legacy continues to inspire students, pastors, and scholars, emphasizing the enduring richness and theological depth of the Psalms and the poetic beauty of the Old Testament. His work remains a valuable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of Scripture.

The Theology of the Psalms, An Introduction to the Old Testament Poetic Books (Moody), Encountering the Book of Psalms, and a two-volume commentary on the Psalms, Psalms 1-72 and Psalms 73-150 (Baker Academic).