scholarship. serving. ministry.
The gospel reading in this Year A for the Third Sunday of Easter Luke 24.13–35, the story of two disciples meeting the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus. It is a favourite story for many, a long narrative full of fascinating detail which connects with Luke’s opening stories in the gospel at many points. It is full of irony and humour, and connects with the idea of discipleship as a journey.
James and Ian discuss the passage, its place, and its meaning. Come and join the discussion!
If you enjoyed this, do share it on social media (Facebook or Twitter) using the buttons on the left. Follow me on Twitter @psephizo. Like my page on Facebook.
Much of my work is done on a freelance basis. If you have valued this post, you can make a single or repeat donation through PayPal:
For other ways to support this ministry, visit my Support page.Comments policy: Do engage with the subject. Please don't turn this into a private discussion board. Do challenge others in the debate; please don't attack them personally. I no longer allow anonymous comments; if there are very good reasons, you may publish under a pseudonym; otherwise please include your full name, both first and surnames.
Ian Paul: theologian, author, speaker, academic consultant. Adjunct Professor, Fuller Theological Seminary; Associate Minister, St Nic's, Nottingham; Managing Editor, Grove Books; member of General Synod. Mac user; chocoholic. Tweets at @psephizo
To make a one-off or repeat donation to support the blog, use PayPal with the button below:
You can also visit my Patreon page.
For other ways to support this ministry, visit my Support page.
Andrew Goddard Bible biblical interpretation Biblical literacy biblical theology Christmas Church of England culture discipleship discussion doctrine eschatology evangelism gay General Synod Grove guest Hermeneutics History hope interpretation James Blandford Baker Jesus John's gospel Justin Welby leadership lectionary Luke Luke's gospel Matthew ministry mission New Testament Old Testament Paul politics preaching resurrection Revelation same sex unions sexuality theology video Year A Year C
The start of the video reminded me of the story of the bishop visiting a church. When he spoke, it did not seem very loud, so he tapped the microphone and said, “there seems to be something wrong with this.” The congregation, being good Anglicans, responded, “and also with you.”
I’ll get my coat…
Really enjoyed some eye opening thoughts around this passage, which yes is a favourite of mine. Interestingly I had no idea of the possibility of the second person being Ceophas’ wife until the sermon in church this morning.
I love the opportunity to listen to various interpretations of bible passages and is why I see myself now as permanent pilgrims, not particularly linked to any one church but always listening and learning. Yes I am in that age bracket that stops regularly to contemplate and love doing so. I feel very fortunate that life now allows this space and time, in retirement.
I think the walking and talking aspect is significant because when out and about as a pilgrim, walking, I am always thankful and amazed at the opportunities to meet and talk with strangers, often leading to joyful interactions.
For me the eyes being opened at the breaking of bread does hold particular significance. During 2020 I was introduced to the book ‘Take,Bless,Break,Share’ by Simon Brydon-Brook. Agapes, table blessings and liturgies.
When journeying, it is not always possible to attend a church service and receive communion and this book helps in those circumstances, as it did during lockdown. One of the shortest, simplest Agape liturgies is the Emmaus Liturgy, perfect for a non theological lay person, wanting to feel as close to Christ as possible in the breaking of bread.
Great !
Keep going, Pilgrim Sarah, and God bless you. (Galatians 6:9-10).