Only out of first gear from a complete stop for me too! My check engine light went on last night as well. Inspection is due next month and all the bugs are showing up!
I have the completely exact same problem on my 94 22re 5spd 4wd! It started around the same time I lost my 4wheel drive. I hope someone knows what exactly it is so I can get right to it instead of taking it to a garage to get a diagnosis!