Short Introductions to the Bible Readings… - Print.
A Resource for the Readers at the Lectern By Bill Bennett
A concise and practical resource providing short introductions for the Revised Common Lectionary readings, ideal for church readers, preachers, and personal devotions.
This valuable tool for anyone engaging with the Revised Common Lectionary:
- Helps readers introduce Bible passages with clarity and relevance.
- Provides quick insights into Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel readings.
- Enhances congregation understanding during worship services.
- Inspires preachers with sermon ideas and thematic sparks.
- Supports personal devotion and Bible study.
- Is usable for church bulletins with appropriate credit.
- Follows the New Zealand Anglican Lectionary—Te Maramataka. Features
- Short, easy-to-read introductions for every Sunday and feast day.
- Covers Revised Common Lectionary Years A, B, and C.
- Scripture index organized by book for quick reference.
- Excludes Psalms to accommodate diverse worship practices.
- Suitable for both lay readers and clergy.
Soft cover, 118 pages
Dimensions: 6" x 9"
ISBN: 9781988572017
Philip Garside Publishing Ltd (2019)
4 coming 22 Oct 2025
Printed on demand in Australia
Would you like a simple, quick way to engage with the Revised Common Lectionary Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel readings for each Sunday and other significant days in the church calendar?
Short Introductions to the Bible Readings for the Revised Common Lectionary by Bill Bennett offers just that—concise, thoughtful introductions designed for use at the lectern, in sermon preparation, or for personal reflection.
Readers can use this book in multiple ways:
- As a Preface to Bible Readings: Before delivering each reading, the reader can share the relevant short introduction to provide context and meaning, helping the congregation better understand the passage as it unfolds. Preachers may wish to coordinate with readers to align introductions with the day’s sermon focus.
- For Sermon Preparation: Preachers can find inspiration for sermons, with each introduction offering thematic insights and historical background to spark ideas.
- For Personal Devotion: During the week leading up to Sunday worship, individuals can read the introductions alongside the lectionary passages as part of their personal devotions.
- In Church Bulletins: Churches are welcome to include the introductions in their weekly newsletters, provided they credit the author as indicated on the copyright page.
While this book excludes Psalm readings – given the varying practices around their use – it follows the New Zealand Anglican Lectionary Te Maramataka, with awareness of some regional and denominational variations.
With clear, concise entries for every Sunday and feast day in Years A, B, and C of the Revised Common Lectionary, Short Introductions to the Bible Readings is an indispensable resource for worship leaders, preachers, and anyone seeking deeper engagement with Scripture. About the Author
Bill Bennett, an Anglican priest with deep roots in New Zealand’s rural communities, has served in parishes across the Diocese of Waiapu and in the Norwich and Lichfield Dioceses in England. His ministry has included roles as Ministry Enabler and Regional Dean in Hawke’s Bay. An author of several works on rural ministry, including God of the Whenua and The Shepherd’s Call , he also writes hymns and songs. Now retired in Palmerston North, New Zealand, he continues to contribute to theological scholarship, including serving on the Editorial Board of Rural Theology. Contents
Introduction: Using This Resource
Bible Readings for the Church Year (Years A, B & C)
Scripture Index (Organized Alphabetically by Bible Book)
Special Observances and Feast Days
Notes on Using the Introductions
Sample Entries from the book for RCL Year C
Advent 4
Old Testament: Micah 5:2-5a
This reading is an additional postscript to the prophecies of Micah. It refers to the return of the Jews from exile. From a Bethlehem family clan will come a shepherd king.
Epistle: Hebrews 10:5-10
The writer quotes from Psalm 40 to show Christ replacing the old order of things through his life, death and resurrection.
Gospel: Luke 1:39-45 (46-55)
Mary visits her kinswoman, Elizabeth, also pregnant. Elizabeth give