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The Alabaster Jar

The Alabaster Jar
Author: Dr. Lynn Cohick
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The Alabaster Jar is a weekly podcast hosted by Dr. Lynn Cohick. Dr. Cohick is a highly respected New Testament scholar and the founding president of the Center for Women in Leadership, a 501C3 organization designed to encourage women as they minister and lead in the church and in the academy.
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In this 2nd edition of "Coffee with Cohick" episode of The Alabaster Jar podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelley Mathews answer listener-submitted questions that explore practical advice for women leading Bible studies, drawing lessons from biblical figures such as Phoebe, Priscilla, and Junia. Dr. Cohick also shares her approach to biblical exegesis and discusses how to understand and connect the overarching redemptive story of Scripture to women’s roles. Lastly, she addresses how to lovingly engage with family members holding challenging theological views and encourages mutual support within the faith community. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityScripture as Communication, 2nd Edition: Introducing Biblical Hermeneutics by Dr. Jeannine K. BrownElements of Biblical Exegesis: A Basic Guide for Students and Ministers by Dr. Michael J. Gorman Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito conclude their Advent series focusing on the theme of love as they reflect on the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus. They discuss how Mary's life was interrupted by divine purpose, her response to the angel Gabriel, and the importance of being open to God's interruptions in our own lives. They also emphasize the need for faithfulness, the depth of Mary's theological understanding, and the call to embrace love and interruptions as part of our spiritual journey during the Advent season. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito continue their Advent series with a focus on the theme of joy. They reflect on the stories of Elizabeth and Mary in the Gospel of Luke, highlighting how profound joy is magnified in the context of friendship and community. They also discuss the complexities of waiting, holding multiple emotions at once, and how biblical joy persists even in uncertain or difficult circumstances. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito continue their Advent series with a focus on the theme of peace. They explore the biblical story of Hannah from 1 Samuel, drawing lessons about honest prayer, enduring hope, and the nature of biblical peace (shalom). They also compare cultural and biblical understandings of peace, reflect on the support of faithful partners, and connect Hannah’s story to Mary’s Magnificat. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito begin their Advent Series with Rev. Dr. Tracey Bianchi to explore the meaning of Advent as a season of waiting and hope, drawing from the story of Sarah and Abraham in Genesis. They also dive into why waiting can be so difficult, and how honesty and faith play a role in the waiting process.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityEpisode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In Part 2 of their conversation, Dr. Lynn Cohick is joined by both Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliot and Dr. Elizabeth Backfish, co-authors of "Grounded Theology in the Hebrew Bible: Exploring the Cultural Context That Formed Ancient Israel." They explore the cultural, historical, and theological context of ancient Israel, focusing on themes such as worship, offerings, law, wisdom, and hospitality. They also delve into how sacrifices and temple practices shaped everyday life and examine the enduring significance of being made in the image of God. They also highlight the distinctiveness of biblical law and wisdom literature, as well as the role of food, feasting, and hospitality in community life, offering insights for both ancient and modern faith practice.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Grounded Theology in the Hebrew Bible: Exploring the Cultural Context That Formed Ancient Israel by Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliot and Dr. Elizabeth Backfish The Liberating Image: The Imago Dei in Genesis 1 by Dr. J. Richard MiddletonCorporal Punishment in the Bible: A Redemptive-Movement Hermeneutic for Troubling Texts by Dr. William J. Webb The Image of God in the Garden of Eden by Dr. Catherine J. McDowellThe Hebrew Bible, the Old Testament, and Historical Criticism: Jews and Christians in Biblical Studies by Dr. Jon D. Levenson Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this conversation, Dr. Lynn Cohick is joined by both Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliot and Dr. Elizabeth Backfish, co-authors of "Grounded Theology in the Hebrew Bible: Exploring the Cultural Context That Formed Ancient Israel." They dive into the world of ancient Israel—its family structures, covenants, purity laws, and what holiness really meant. They also bring history to life, sharing fresh insights that connect the Old Testament’s cultural context to faith today. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Grounded Theology in the Hebrew Bible: Exploring the Cultural Context That Formed Ancient Israel by Dr. Cynthia Shafer-Elliot and Dr. Elizabeth Backfish The Epic of Eden: A Christian Entry into the Old Testament by Dr. Sandra L. RichterDiscovering Eve: Ancient Israelite Women in Context by Dr. Carol MyersWomen and the Gender of God by Dr. Amy PeelerEpisode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Josephine Stringer talk about the intersections of leadership, virtue, and storytelling. Dr. Stringer shares her personal journey as a lifelong lover of books, explaining how her experience as a librarian shaped her dissertation on leadership and virtue. They also explore the power of detective fiction, particularly the works of Dorothy Sayers, as a means for developing virtue and understanding leadership. They also discuss how both fiction and biblical narratives can transform readers by engaging their emotions and fostering deeper spiritual reflection. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityAre Women Human? Penetrating, Sensible, and Witty Essays on the Role of Women in Society by Dorothy L. SayersLord Peter: The Complete Lord Peter Wimsey Stories by Dorothy L. SayersGaudy Night: A Lord Peter Wimsey Mystery with Harriet Vane by Dorothy L. Sayers The Man Born to Be King by Dorothy L. SayersAn Apology for Poetry & Astrophel and Stella by Sir Philip SidneyWhere the Red Fern Grows by Wilson RawlsOld Yeller by Fred GipsonBlack Beauty: An Autobiography of a Horse by Anna Sewell Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher StoweReading for the Love of God: How to Read as a Spiritual Practice by Dr. Jessica Hooten WilsonAsk of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life by Dr. Grace Hamman Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this conversation, Chaplain Dr. Eva Bleeker joins Dr. Lynn Cohick to talk about the Book of Lamentations and its significance for processing grief and loss. Dr. Bleecker shares insights from her experience as a chaplain and discusses how Lamentations serves as a compassionate companion for those suffering. Together, they explore the book's structure and themes, emphasizing the importance of creative expression, witness, and hope in times of hardship. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole by Susan Cain Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode, Dr. Elaine Howard Eklund and Dr. Denise Daniels join Dr. Lynn Cohick to discuss insights from their new book, "Working for Better: A New Approach to Faith at Work." They explore how Christians can authentically express their faith in diverse professional settings and share research-based approaches to finding meaning and calling at work. They also cover workplace culture, the concept of "radical embrace," and the unique challenges and opportunities for women in leadership.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityWorking for Better: A New Approach to Faith at Work by Dr. Elaine Howard Eklund and Dr. Denise Daniels Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Jenn Suen Chen discuss her new book Dim Sum and Faith: How Our Stories Form Our Souls, exploring how personal stories shape our souls. Jen shares her journey from childhood in the U.S. to living in Asia, discussing the impact of childhood experiences on adult life, the importance of authenticity, and the role of community in healing. They also delve into themes of shame, self-criticism, and the significance of meals as a metaphor for connection. During the conversation, Jenn emphasizes the need for reflection and the presence of God in times of struggle, ultimately encouraging us to embrace our stories and find hope in community.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityDim Sum and Faith: How Our Stories Form Our Souls by Jenn Suen Chen Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Jennifer Brown Jones delve into the often-misunderstood book of Leviticus, examining its themes of ritual purity, holiness, and community. They discuss how Leviticus frames the relationship between God and His people, emphasizing the difference between ritual impurity and moral sin. They also highlight the communal impact of individual actions and the importance of loving one’s neighbor, drawing connections to both ancient Israelite practices and contemporary issues. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityJesus and the Forces of Death: The Gospels' Portrayal of Ritual Impurity within First-Century Judaism by Dr. Matthew Thiessen Leviticus: A Book of Ritual and Ethics: Continental Commentaries by Dr. Jacob Milgrom Webinar with Dr. Carmen Imes (Becoming God’s Family) Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Grace Hamman discuss her new book, Ask of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life. Together, they explore how medieval concepts of virtue and vice can offer fresh insight for modern spiritual formation, using vivid metaphors like the soul as a garden. They also delve into the difference between virtues and values, the importance of humility, and the universal call to cultivate character.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityAsk of Old Paths: Medieval Virtues and Vices for a Whole and Holy Life by Dr. Grace HammanJesus through Medieval Eyes: Beholding Christ with the Artists, Mystics, and Theologians of the Middle Ages by Dr. Grace Hamman Webinar with Dr. Carmen Imes (Becoming God’s Family)The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this inaugural "Coffee with Cohick" episode of The Alabaster Jar podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick answers listener-submitted questions on faith, theology, and biblical interpretation. The conversation explores distinctions between Jews and Gentiles in Ephesians, the metaphorical use of "head" in Ephesians 5, and Lynn’s favorite scripture to pray. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Ya’ll Version BibleApostle of the Crucified Lord: A Theological Introduction to Paul and His Letters by Dr. Michael J. GormanArchaeology and the Ministry of Paul: A Visual Guide (Archaeology and the New Testament) by Dr. David A. deSilvaScripture as Communication, 2nd Edition: Introducing Biblical Hermeneutics by Dr. Jeannine K. BrownPhilippians: An Introduction and Commentary (Volume 11) (Tyndale New Testament Commentaries) by Dr. Jeannine K. Brown Matthew (Two Horizons New Testament Commentary (THNTC)) by Dr. Jeannine K. Brown and Dr. Kyle RobertsDictionary of Jesus and the Gospels (The IVP Bible Dictionary Series) Dictionary of Paul and His Letters: A Compendium of Contemporary Biblical Scholarship (The IVP Bible Dictionary Series) Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito conclude their four-part series on Ephesians by exploring chapters 5 and 6. They delve into Paul's household codes, examining how his instructions to slaves, women, and men subvert the social norms of the first century and promote unity and equality within the early church. They also discuss the historical context of slavery and gender roles, highlighting Paul's radical message that all believers are full members of Christ's body, worthy of dignity and honor. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityOn Benefits by Seneca The Letter to the Ephesians (New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT)) by Dr. Lynn H. Cohick Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito continue their series on the book of Ephesians, delving into the prayers found in chapters 1, 3, and 6. They discuss what it means to live "in Christ," emphasizing the importance of prayer, spiritual strength, and standing firm in faith. They also examine the cultural context of Paul's letter, including the impact of the Roman Empire and the local worship of Artemis, and how these factors shape the message of Ephesians.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity The Letter to the Ephesians (New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT)) by Dr. Lynn H. Cohick Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito dive into part two of their four-part series exploring the book of Ephesians. They explore how Paul’s message redefines identity for both Jews and Gentiles, emphasizing the unearned gift of salvation and the transformative reality of being “seated with Christ.” They also correct some common misconceptions about works and grace, drawing on historical context to enrich your understanding of how Paul would’ve understood grace as he was writing to the Ephesian church. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity The Letter to the Ephesians (New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT)) by Dr. Lynn H. CohickPaul and the Gift by Dr. John M.G. BarclayPaul and the Power of Grace by Dr. John M.G. Barclay Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Lynn Cohick and Dr. Kelly Dippolito begin a four-part series exploring the book of Ephesians. Dr. Cohick introduces listeners to the historical and cultural context of Ephesus, highlighting its significance as a bustling metropolis and the intended audience for Paul's letter. They delve into key theological themes in Ephesians 1, including predestination, adoption, and the Trinitarian nature of God, highlighting how these concepts shape our understanding of salvation and our place in God's family. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity The Letter to the Ephesians (New International Commentary on the New Testament (NICNT)) by Dr. Lynn H. Cohick Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this conversation, Rev. Dr. Nicole Massie Martin joins Dr. Lynn Cohick to talk about her new book, "Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender." Dr. Martin shares her journey of developing a redemptive approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of learning from failure, embracing empathy, and surrendering perfectionism. They also explore the complexities of power, the challenges women face in leadership, and how true leadership is rooted in Christ-like sacrifice and service.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender by Rev. Dr. Nicole Massie Martin Our Iceberg Is Melting: Changing and Succeeding Under Any Conditions by John Kotter and Holder Rathgeber Many Colors: Cultural Intelligence for a Changing Church by Rev. Dr. Soong-Chan Rah Soulfire International Ministries Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology.
In this conversation, Dr. Carmen Imes joins Dr. Lynn Cohick to talk about her upcoming book, "Becoming God’s Family: Why the Church Still Matters." They discuss the concept of the church as a spiritual family, emphasizing the importance of community, service, and God’s presence over individualism. Dr. Imes also shares insights from both the Old and New Testaments, explores the global and communal dimensions of faith, and addresses challenges such as church hurt and reasons people might leave a local congregation.Episode Resources: Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters by Dr. Carmen Joy Imes Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters by Dr. Carmen Joy Imes Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters by Dr. Carmen Joy Imes Teach Us to Pray: The Lord's Prayer in the Early Church and Today by Dr. Justo L. González Santa Biblia: The Bible Through Hispanic Eyes by Dr. Justo L. González Reading Romans Backwards: A Gospel of Peace in the Midst of Empire by Dr. Scot McKnight The Scandalous Message of James: Faith Without Works Is Dead by Dr. Elsa Támez The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity Episode Sponsor: The Alabaster Jar is brought to you by The Center for Women in Leadership, a newly formed 501©3 nonprofit organization whose purpose is to equip women in a context that is biblically rooted, theologically robust, and ethnically diverse to thrive as leaders in the academy, the marketplace, and the Church. Follow them on Instagram @leadershipwithoutapology. Learn more about The Center for Women in Leadership at: https://www.leadershipwithoutapology.org/.




I'm listening to Lynn Cohick and Amy Orr-Ewing on the Alabaster Jar and it affirrms the way I portray Mary as a learned, faithful propher in my book #ForgottenFollowers from Broken to Bold