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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 episode of the Alabaster Jar Podcast, Dr. Eve Tibbs joins Dr. Lynn Cohick to discuss her book, Seeing the Gospel: An Interpretive Guide to Orthodox Icons. They explore the significance of Orthodox icons, their unique visual language, and how they convey biblical stories and theological truths. They also cover the differences between icons and religious art, common misconceptions about icons, the symbolism of colors and figures, and specific icons such as the Nativity and Transfiguration.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianitySeeing the Gospel: An Interpretive Guide to Orthodox Icons by Dr. Eve Tibbs The Priscilla Catacombs2026 Visual Museum Symposium 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. Michelle Knight joins Dr. Lynn Cohick to talk about how to read the book of Ruth with careful hermeneutics rather than as a “Hallmark” love story. They explore the harsh realities of famine, displacement, and economic vulnerability in the days of the Judges and how these shape Naomi and Ruth’s choices. Dr. Knight also highlights Ruth’s boldness, loyalty (hesed), and agency, showing her as a model of discipleship and courageous faith, not a passive “damsel in distress.” They also dive into Boaz’s over-the-top care, the moral complexity of the nighttime threshing floor scene, and the way God restores Naomi’s hope and joy through ordinary, faithful people. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity 2026 Visual Museum SymposiumWomen of the Bible in Art (Museum of the Bible)Center for Women in LeadershipS5 E14 | Dr. Michelle Knight | Defying Expectations: How The Vulnerable Became Victorious In The Old TestamentThe Prophet's Anthem: The Song of Deborah and Barak in the Narrative of Judges by Dr. Michelle KnightEpisode 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 conclude their three-part series on Paul's letter to the Galatians. They delve into what freedom in Christ truly means, emphasizing that faith—rather than strict adherence to the law—welcomes believers into God’s family. They also discuss how outward practices, such as circumcision and dietary laws, are less important than living by the Spirit and expressing faith through love. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity 2026 Visual Museum Symposium Women of the Bible in Art (Museum of the Bible)Center for Women in Leadership 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. Josephine Stringer continue their exploration of Paul's letter to the Galatians, focusing on chapters 3 and 4. They delve into Paul's frustration with the Galatians' confusion over faith, Mosaic law, and the meaning of true belonging in God's family. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity 2026 Visual Museum Symposium Women of the Bible in Art (Museum of the Bible)Center for Women in Leadership 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. Josephine Stringer begin a three-part series exploring the book of Galatians. Dr. Cohick discusses its historical context, the significance of Paul's message, and the implications of the resurrection. They also delve into the challenges faced by the early church, the importance of unity, and the role of faith in justification. Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in Christianity 2026 Visual Museum Symposium Women of the Bible in Art (Museum of the Bible)Center for Women in Leadership 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. Jessica Hooten Wilson joins Dr. Lynn Cohick to discuss her book, Reading for the Love of God: How to Read as a Spiritual Practice. Together, they explore the transformative power of reading as a spiritual practice and talk through how stories, both biblical and literary, shape our understanding of life and faith. They also discuss different types of readers, virtues to bring to our reading, and the rich traditions of scriptural interpretation throughout history.Resources Mentioned: The Visual Museum of Women in ChristianityReading for the Love of God: How to Read as a Spiritual Practice by Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson The Scandal of Holiness: Renewing Your Imagination in the Company of Literary Saints by Dr. Jessica Hooten WilsonEat This Book: A Conversation in the Art of Spiritual Reading by Eugene H. PetersonMy Friend Flicka by Mary O’HaraLord Peter: The Complete Lord Peter Wimsey Stories by Dorothy L. Sayers The Man Born to Be King by Dorothy L. SayersThe Mind of the Maker: The Expression of Faith through Creativity and Art by Dorothy L. SayersBrighty of the Grand Canyon by Marguerite HenryCato: A Tragedy, and Selected Essays by Joseph AddisonOld Yeller by Fred GipsonThe Zeal of Thy House by Dorothy L. SayersRevelations of Divine Love by Julian of NorwichThe Odyssey by Homer 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 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. WebbThe 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. LevensonEpisode 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.
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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