Using The Narrative Lectionary

As preachers, we are called to proclaim the transformative story of God's redemptive work in the world. One powerful tool for accomplishing this task is the Narrative Lectionary, a unique approach to scripture reading and preaching that emphasizes the overarching narrative of the Bible. In this post, we'll explore the Narrative Lectionary in depth, examining its distinctive features, benefits, and strategies for effective implementation in your preaching ministry.

What is the Narrative Lectionary?
Developed in 2010 by Luther Seminary professors Rolf Jacobson and Craig Koester, the Narrative Lectionary is a nine-month cycle of scripture readings designed to help worshippers engage with the broad sweep of the biblical story. Unlike other lectionaries that often present readings from different parts of the Bible each week, the Narrative Lectionary follows a more linear approach, tracing the unfolding narrative from Genesis to Revelation.

The lectionary begins each September with readings from the Old Testament, highlighting key stories and themes that lay the foundation for the coming of Christ. During the Christmas and Easter seasons, the focus shifts to the gospels, allowing congregations to immerse themselves in the life and ministry of Jesus. The cycle concludes in the spring with readings from Acts and the epistles, emphasizing the birth and growth of the early church.

Benefits of the Narrative Lectionary
For preachers committed to a narrative approach, the Narrative Lectionary offers several significant advantages:

Emphasis on the biblical metanarrative: The Narrative Lectionary helps congregations to see the Bible as a cohesive story, revealing the unity and coherence of God's redemptive plan from beginning to end.

Connection between Old and New Testaments: By highlighting the ways in which the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament find their fulfillment in Christ, the Narrative Lectionary enables preachers to explore the rich connections between the two testaments.

Deeper engagement with scripture: The extended readings and book-by-book approach of the Narrative Lectionary facilitate a more thorough exploration of the biblical text, encouraging preachers to consider the historical, cultural, and literary context of each passage.

Relevance for contemporary believers: As congregations journey through the Narrative Lectionary each year, they are invited to find their place within the grand story of God's redemptive work, discovering how their own lives and experiences intersect with the biblical narrative.

Strategies for Effective Implementation
To maximize the benefits of the Narrative Lectionary in your preaching ministry, consider the following strategies:

Focus on narrative elements: Highlight the characters, settings, plot developments, and themes that drive the biblical story forward, inviting your congregation to enter into the world of the text.

Incorporate storytelling techniques: Use vivid imagery, descriptive language, and imaginative retellings to bring the scriptures to life and engage your listeners' hearts and minds.

Develop a preaching calendar: Map out the overarching narrative arc of the church year, identifying key themes and threads that will be developed over the course of multiple weeks.

Seek out resources and support: Engage with online communities and forums where preachers share ideas, insights, and struggles related to the Narrative Lectionary.

While the Narrative Lectionary offers numerous benefits, it's important to acknowledge potential drawbacks. Some congregations may find the extended readings and book-by-book approach challenging, particularly if they are accustomed to a more traditional lectionary. Additionally, the Narrative Lectionary may not cover every book of the Bible over the course of its four-year cycle, potentially leaving some passages unexplored.

Despite these limitations, for most congregations, the Narrative Lectionary represents a powerful tool for engaging with the biblical story and proclaiming the transformative message of the gospel. By inviting worshippers to immerse themselves in the overarching narrative of scripture and to find their place within God's unfolding plan, the Narrative Lectionary can breathe new life into your preaching ministry, helping your congregation to grow in their understanding and love of God's word.

As you consider the role of the Narrative Lectionary in your own preaching, I encourage you to prayerfully reflect on the unique needs and opportunities of your congregation. By embracing the power of narrative and committing to a deep engagement with the biblical story, you can unlock the transformative potential of this innovative approach to scripture reading and preaching.

May God bless you as you seek to proclaim the story of His redemptive work in the world, week after week, season after season.

Rev. "Dr. Lance" Haverkamp