Categories
Lectionary Series Uncategorized Year A

Fourth Sunday of Advent (A)

Advent 4-animationThis Sunday’s gospel reading comes from Mt 1:18-25 found in Phase 1, Section 9 of the Harmony of the Gospels1. The story recorded by the Apostle Matthew, probably while he was in Antioch was written with special concern for those steeped in Hebrew tradition. Today, we believe it speaks loudest to those who are law-bound and legalistic – battling with their reasoning, their desire to do what’s right, and the reality of their own thoughts and actions. Today’s message is tells the story of Joseph in the throws of such a battle in which mercy and ascent to a higher purpose win and many prophesies fulfilled.2

Collect:
P
urify our conscience, Almighty God, by your daily visitation, that your Son Jesus Christ, at his coming, may find in us a mansion prepared for himself; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Parsing the Collect, by Fr. Rob Eaton, Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Hemet, CA (Coming Soon)


Section 9 | Circumstances of Jesus’ Birth Explained to Joseph

Matthew 1:18-25
18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ3 was like this: After his mother, Mary, was engaged to Joseph, before they came together, she was found pregnant4 by the Holy Spirit.5 19 Joseph, her husband, being a righteous man, and not willing to make her a public example, intended to put her away secretly. 20 But when he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, don’t be afraid to take to yourself Mary, your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. 21 She shall give birth to a son. You shall call his name Jesus, for it is he who shall save his people from their sins.” 22 Now all this has happened, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying, 23 “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and shall give birth to a son. They shall call his name Immanuel;” which is, being interpreted, “God with us.” 24 Joseph arose from his sleep, and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took his wife to himself;6 25 and didn’t know her sexually until she had given birth to her firstborn son. He named him Jesus.


RCL Readings: Isaiah 7:10-16; Psalm 80:1-7, 16-18; Matthew 1:18-25; Romans 1:1-7


Group Dialog:

  1. Look over the notes in Veracity and Virtue. What singular aspect of this story is most astounding to you?
  2. What did Joseph’s immediate obedience to the angel’s message in his dream indicate about his beliefs and his relationship with God?
  3. As the son of Mary Jesus was fully human. Read Heb 2:18; 4:15 and talk about how Jesus’ life, teaching and choices relate to your own struggles.
  4. In what ways was Jesus the opposite of Adam? Consider the significance of Jesus’ divine nature: being Eternal; his power over disease; command over nature; authority over sin and control over death – even His own.
  5. Consider God’s law, the laws of your State and this nation, and your family rules – Seventeen verses in the New Testament describe Jesus as the “son of David.” Why would this have been important to the Hebrew people to whom Mathew wrote?
  6. What are some everyday decisions or life changing decisions in which we need to relinquish control and obey God?
  7. Can you trust the Scriptures and God in areas that we do not fully understand, like the incarnation? If not how might your unbelief affect your perception of God’s ability in the ordinary things in which we wish he would come to our aid?
  8. What does the incarnation of Jesus – Immanuel, (God coming to dwell with us) tell us about the  extent of God’s intent and desire for our reconciliation and redemption?
  9. Read the Gospel once more and also the other readings, then discuss what are the keys to having a “stable faith“?

Prayers of the People:

  • Lives of the ChurchSet us free, Lord, from the confinements of our own reasoning. Let us expand our understanding with the wisdom that comes by faith and trust fully in your very nature, Word, and purpose for us. 
  • LocalLord, embolden us to leave the comfort of our own creation and activities, to go with confidence in the power of your Spirit at work within us in and beyond our neighborhood, to be the light of Christ, to do good works, and share the Good News in the ministry of reconciliation.
  • GlobalOh God, your power and thoughts are so much greater than our own – vast and incomprehensible! Lift our eyes, our soul letting us see the greater plan, knit our souls desires to your very own, and help us embrace and empower every good work that you are doing to reach and reconcile the world to you in this very moment.

Notes:

Categories
5c Five

Lost and Found

Among the parables of Christ, this passage warms the hearts of most – if not convicting their souls. But convicting or consoling Jesus is certainly calling us all to action and he is vividly illustrating to the very peers of Nicodemus the same message he shared nearly two years before as recorded in John 3:16 – that “God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Podcast: Coming soon


Section 116 | Parables in Defense of Association with Sinners

Luke 15:1-32
1 Now all the tax collectors1 and sinners were coming close to him to hear him.2  2 The Pharisees3  and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man welcomes sinners, and eats with them.”4 3 He told them5 this parable. 4 “Which of you men, if you had one hundred sheep, and lost one of them,6 wouldn’t leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one that was lost, until he found it?7 5 When he has found it, he carries it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 When he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!’ 7 I tell you that even so there will be more joy8 in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance. 8 Or what woman, if she had ten drachma coins,9 if she lost one drachma coin, wouldn’t light a lamp, sweep the house, and seek diligently until she found it?10 9 When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors,11 saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the drachma which I had lost.’ 10 Even so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner repenting.” 11 He said, “A certain man had two sons.12 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of your property.’ He divided his livelihood between them. 13 Not many days after, the younger son gathered all of this together and traveled into a far country. There he wasted his property with riotous living.13  14 When he had spent all of it, there arose a severe famine in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 He went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, and he sent him into his fields to feed pigs.14 16 He wanted to fill his belly with the husks that the pigs ate, but no one gave him any. 17 But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough to spare, and I’m dying with hunger! 18 I will get up and go to my father, and will tell him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight. 19 I am no more worthy to be called your son. Make me as one of your hired servants.” ’ 20 “He arose, and came to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him, and was moved with compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21 The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring out the best robe, and put it on him. Put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let’s eat, and celebrate; 24 for this, my son, was dead, and is alive again. He was lost, and is found.’ Then they began to celebrate.15 25 “Now his elder son was in the field. As he came near to the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the servants to him, and asked what was going on. 27 He said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fattened calf, because he has received him back safe and healthy.’ 28 But he was angry, and would not go in. Therefore his father came out, and begged him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Behold, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed a commandment of yours, but you never gave me a goat, that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this your son came, who has devoured your living with prostitutes, you killed the fattened calf for him.’ 31 “He said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 But it was appropriate to celebrate and be glad, for this, your brother, was dead, and is alive again. He was lost, and is found.’ ”16


Group Dialog:

  1. SHEEP: Have you ever had an incorrect perception of someone? How have your own priorities clouded your
  2. COIN: The coins represent something of value, and all three parables concern the restoration of “lost relationships”. What act of God (directly, through nature or another person) initially brought you into relationship with him?  Tell of another time since “being born again” that God restored your relationship with him again?  Marvell at the implications and significance of each persons story.
  3. SON: How would you describe the son’s character? What causes him to “come to his senses”? Do you relate to either of the brothers? If so, which one and why? What judgments have you made on those that have strayed from living a life for God? Read vs 32 – what good news does Jesus have for the Pharisees?
  4. What does this story teach us about the character of God? What brings him joy and what he hopes to do?
  5. Who do you know that needs to be found, reconciled and return to a right relationship with God? What prayers and help do you need to help that individual?
  6. Luke’s primary audience was Greek (Gentiles) and his is the only Gospel to include this story- what effect might this story have had on them? Can you think of people you know who might really appreciate this story?

Learning Objectives: God’s mercy and compassion, repentance, reconciliation, joy, spiritual responsibility of believers, and the mission of God.

Media: 

The Orthodox church has a “kontakion hymn” suited for this passage:17

I have recklessly forgotten Your glory, O Father;
And among sinners I have scattered the riches which You gave to me.
And now I cry to You as the Prodigal:
I have sinned before You, O merciful Father;
Receive me as a penitent and make me as one of Your hired servants.

Notes:

Categories
Five Lectionary Series Year A

Third Sunday of Advent (Year A)

Third Sunday of Advent (Year A)

Jumping forward in time once again from last Sunday’s Gospel reading which recounted the story of the day Jesus came to John for his baptism (Phase 1 Sections 21-23), today’s Gospel reading comes from Mt 11:2-11 (Phase 5a, Section 57) nearly two years later wherein we read more of John the Baptist’s relationship to the Kingdom. The 3rd Sunday of Advent is the Sunday we light the pink candle of joy.


Collect:

Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

Parsing the Collect, by Fr. Rob Eaton, Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Hemet, CA (Coming Soon)


Section 57 | John the Baptist’s Relationship to the Kingdom

[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 11:2-19
2 Now when John heard in the prison1 the works of Christ, he sent two of his disciples2 3 and said to him, “Are you he who comes, or should we look for another?”3

 

 

4 Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John the things which you hear and see: 5 the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. 6 Blessed is he who finds no occasion for stumbling in me.” 7 As these went their way, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John, “What did you go out into the wilderness to see?4 A reed shaken by the wind? 8 But what did you go out to see? A man in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. 9 But why did you go out? To see a prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet. 10 For this is he, of whom it is written,

‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.’

11 Most certainly I tell you, among those who are born of women there has not arisen anyone greater than John the Baptizer; yet he who is least in the Kingdom of Heaven is greater than he. 12 From the days of John the Baptizer until now, the Kingdom of Heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.5 13 For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.6 14 If you are willing to receive it, this is Elijah, who is to come.7 15 He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

 

 

16 “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces, who call to their companions 17 and say,

‘We played the flute for you, and you didn’t dance. We mourned for you, and you didn’t lament.’8

18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Behold, a gluttonous man and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’9

But wisdom is justified by her children.”[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 7:18-35
18 The disciples of John told him about all these things. 19 John, calling to himself two of his disciples, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are you the one who is coming, or should we look for another?” 20 When the men had come to him, they said, “John the Baptizer has sent us to you, saying, ‘Are you he who comes, or should we look for another?’ ” 21 In that hour he cured many of diseases and plagues and evil spirits; and to many who were blind he gave sight. 22 Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John the things which you have seen and heard: that the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. 23 Blessed is he who finds no occasion for stumbling in me.”10  24 When John’s messengers had departed, he began to tell the multitudes about John, “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 25 But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft clothing? Behold, those who are gorgeously dressed, and live delicately, are in kings’ courts. 26 But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and much more than a prophet. 27 This is he of whom it is written,

‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.’

28 “For I tell you, among those who are born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptizer, yet he who is least in God’s Kingdom is greater than he.”

 

 

29 When all the people and the tax collectors heard this, they declared God to be just, having been baptized with John’s baptism. 30 But the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the counsel of God, not being baptized by him themselves. 31 “To what then should I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? 32 They are like children who sit in the marketplace, and call to one another, saying,

‘We piped to you, and you didn’t dance. We mourned, and you didn’t weep.’

 

33 For John the Baptizer came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’

34 The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Behold, a gluttonous man, and a drunkard; a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ 35 Wisdom is justified by all her children.”[/one_half]


Group Dialog:

  1. Have you ever felt like Elijah or John – confused about God’s plans, timing, and your role.
  2. Have you felt judgement when you doubt? What strength and lesson then can you find in today’s reading?
  3. In what circumstances have you had to reorient your thinking? What lessons did you learn?
  4. How has John’s message of repentance and preparation, and the fulfillment of the Messiah’s acts transformed your life?
  5. Discuss the kairos and chronos of God and your journey of faith.

Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series One Year A

Second Sunday of Advent

The 2nd Sunday of Advent

Today’s Gospel reading is from Mt 3:1-12 found in section 21,22,23 of the Harmony of the Gospels which we will find jumps from last week’s reading from Jesus’ last week of life on earth backward in time to about 26 AD.  John the Baptist is ministering in an arid region south-east of Jerusalem calling Jerusalem to repentance and her re-commitment to her covenant with God.


Collect:

Merciful God, who sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Parsing the Collect, by Fr. Rob Eaton, Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Hemet, CA


Section 21 | His Person, Proclamation, and Baptism

[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 3:1-6
1 In those days, John the Baptizer1 came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, 2 “Repent,2 for the Kingdom of Heaven3 is at hand!” 3 For this is he who was spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, saying, “The voice of one crying in the wilderness, make ready4 the way of the Lord. Make his paths straight.”5 4 Now John himself6 wore clothing made of camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist. His food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then people from Jerusalem, all of Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him.7 6 They were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.8[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 1:2-6
2 As it is written in the prophets, “Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you: 3 the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord! Make his paths straight!’ ” 4 John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching the baptism of repentance for forgiveness of sins. 5 All the country of Judea and all those of Jerusalem went out to him. They were baptized by him in the Jordan river, confessing their sins. 6 John was clothed with camel’s hair and a leather belt around his waist. He ate locusts and wild honey.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 3:3-6
3 He came into all the region around the Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for remission of sins. 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet,

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make ready the way of the Lord. Make his paths straight. 5 Every valley will be filled. Every mountain and hill will be brought low. The crooked will become straight, and the rough ways smooth. 6 All flesh will see God’s salvation.’ ”[/one_third]

Section 22 | His Message to the Pharisees, Sadducees, Crowds, Tax Collectors, and Soldiers

[one_half last=”no”]Matthew 3:7-10
7 But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees9 coming for his baptism, he said to them, “You offspring of vipers,10 who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore produce fruit11 worthy of repentance! 9 Don’t think to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham12 for our father,’ for I tell you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. 10 “Even now the ax13 lies at the root of the trees. Therefore every tree that doesn’t produce good fruit is cut down, and cast into the fire.[/one_half]

[one_half last=”yes”]Luke 3:7-14
7 He said therefore to the multitudes who went out to be baptized by him, “You offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore produce fruits worthy of repentance, and don’t begin to say among yourselves, ‘We have Abraham for our father;’ for I tell you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones! 9 Even now the ax also lies at the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that doesn’t produce good fruit is cut down, and thrown into the fire.” 10 The multitudes asked him, “What then must we do?” 11 He answered them, “He who has two coats, let him give to him who has none. He who has food, let him do likewise.” 12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized, and they said to him, “Teacher, what must we do?” 13 He said to them, “Collect no more than that which is appointed to you.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, saying, “What about us? What must we do?” He said to them, “Extort from no one by violence, neither accuse anyone wrongfully. Be content with your wages.” [/one_half]

Section 23 | His Description of the Christ

[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 3:11-12
11 I indeed baptize you in water for repentance, but he who comes after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you in the Holy Spirit.14

12 His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will thoroughly cleanse his threshing floor. He will gather his wheat into the barn, but the chaff he will burn up with unquenchable fire.”15[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 1:7-8
7 He preached, saying, “After me comes he who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and loosen. 8 I baptized you in water, but he will baptize you in the Holy Spirit.”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 3:15-18
15 As the people were in expectation, and all men reasoned in their hearts concerning John, whether perhaps he was the Christ, 16 John answered them all, “I indeed baptize you with water, but he comes who is mightier than I, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to loosen. He will baptize you in the Holy Spirit and fire, 17 whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly cleanse his threshing floor, and will gather the wheat into his barn; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” 18 Then with many other exhortations he preached good news to the people.[/one_third]


Group Dialog:

  1. What was John’s message?
  2. How did John compare himself to the one who would come after him?
  3. When have you heard God calling you to repentance and abiding in him?
  4. What benefits has repentance brought about in your life?
  5. What fallout has happened when you’ve chosen not to repent?
  6. How have you personally been transformed by the Gospel of Jesus?
  7. As the ministry of John the Baptist is focused on repentance, give space at the close of today’s study for a silent confession, and perhaps shared affirmation of faith using the Nicene creed.

Notes:

Categories
5c

The Cost of Discipleship

There are plenty similes in Luke’s account of an admonishment which Jesus explained to the crowds of people who were gathering ’round him, but not committing themselves to be his disciples. The similes are so simple they make sense even when uttered by a child. The well read christian and scholar in your group will have no doubt studied Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s book of the same title. Though by Jesus, child or theologian its imperative that we ourselves take this passage to heart and transform any lackadaisical behavior or attitude we might have if we fancy ourselves to be his disciples.


Section 115 | Cost of Discipleship

Luke 14:25-35
25 Now great multitudes1 were going with him. He turned and said to them, 26 “If anyone comes to me,2 and doesn’t disregard3 his own father, mother, wife, children, brothers, and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he can’t be my disciple.4   27 Whoever doesn’t bear his own cross,5   and come after me, can’t be my disciple. 28 For which of you, desiring to build a tower, doesn’t first sit down and count the cost, to see if he has enough to complete it?6 29 Or perhaps, when he has laid a foundation, and is not able to finish, everyone who sees begins to mock him, 30 saying, ‘This man began to build, and wasn’t able to finish.’ 31 Or what king, as he goes to encounter another king in war, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to meet him who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32 Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sends an envoy, and asks for conditions of peace. 33 So therefore whoever of you who doesn’t renounce all7 that he has, he can’t be my disciple. 34 Salt is good,8 but if the salt becomes flat and tasteless, with what do you season it? 35 It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile. It is thrown out.9 He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”


Group Dialog:

  1. Why do you suppose Jesus said this to the crowds who were fascinated, curious and gathering around him?
  2. Does Jesus offer any comfort in this teaching to those with the conviction to follow him?
  3. What have you had to give up, set aside, change on account of your own commitment to being a disciple of Christ? How about to achieve any other goal you’ve had for yourself (music instrument, sports, success, income, recovery from an illness, retirement)? How are they similar?
  4. What kind of Christians do you need around you to do that which you think God has called you to do as a minister of the Gospel?  What can you do if you can’t find them? What would you do if the people with the talents that you gathered didn’t care enough to do the work?
  5. Is there any benefit in having halfhearted Christians attending your church/group?
  6. How can loving God above all else empower you to love others, empower you for ministry and go the distance – no matter what the cost?
  7. What other priorities, changes, or complications in your life have distracted you from doing all that God has called you to do for the Kingdom of God?
  8. What covenant are you willing to take as a disciple?

Learning Objectives: Be fully-devoted disciples, be committed to the mission of God, enlist others willing to invest all and keep the love of God and his mission as their first priority.


Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series Year A

First Sunday of Advent (A)

The Gospel lectionary for this Sunday, the First Sunday of Advent, is Mt 24:36-44 within Sections 139e and 139f in which Jesus tells five parables1 to impress on his disciples the importance of watchfulness for his second advent and faithfulness to the purposes of God.  He said this in the last week of his life2 – on Tuesday of Holy Week. While the assigned Gospel reading is found only in Matthew, both Mark and Luke record key aspects of the same teaching – and here’s the rest of the story…


The Collect
Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of darkness, and put on the armor of light, now in the time of this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Parsing the Collect, by Fr. Rob Eaton, Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Hemet, CA


Section 139e | Sign of Nearness but Unknown Time

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 24:32-41 

 

32 “Now from the fig tree learn this parable. When its branch has now become tender, and produces its leaves, you know that the summer is near. 33 Even so you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. 34 Most certainly I tell you, this generation will not pass away, until all these things are accomplished. 35 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 36 But no one knows3 of that day and hour, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only.4  37 “As the days of Noah5 were, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.6 38 For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage,7 until the day that Noah entered into the ship, 39 and they didn’t know until the flood came, and took them all away, so will the coming of the Son of Man be.8 40 Then two men will be in the field: one will be taken and one will be left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill: one will be taken and one will be left.9  [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 13:28-32 

 

28 “Now from the fig tree, learn this parable. When the branch has now become tender, and produces its leaves, you know that the summer is near; 29 even so you also, when you see these things coming to pass, know that it is near, at the doors. 30 Most certainly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things happen. 31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. 32 But of that day or that hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 21:28-33 
28 But when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is near.” 29 He told them a parable. “See the fig tree and all the trees. 30 When they are already budding, you see it and know by your own selves that the summer is already near. 31 Even so you also, when you see these things happening, know that God’s Kingdom is near. 32 Most certainly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things are accomplished. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away. [/one_third]

Section 139f | Five Parables to Teach Watchfulness and Faithfulness

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 24:42-44

 

 

 

42 Watch therefore,10 for you don’t know in what hour your Lord comes.11

 

 

43 But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what watch of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched, and would not have allowed his house to be broken into.12 44 Therefore also be ready, for in an hour that you don’t expect, the Son of Man will come.13 [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 13:33-37 
33 Watch, keep alert, and pray; for you don’t know when the time is.14 34 “It is like a man, traveling to another country, having left his house, and given authority to his servants, and to each one his work, and also commanded the doorkeeper to keep watch. 35 Watch therefore, for you don’t know when the lord of the house is coming, whether at evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning; 36 lest coming suddenly he might find you sleeping. 37 What I tell you, I tell all: Watch.”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 21:34-36 
34 “So be careful, or your hearts will be loaded down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day will come on you suddenly. 35 For it will come like a snare on all those who dwell on the surface of all the earth. 36 Therefore be watchful all the time, praying that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will happen, and to stand before the Son of Man.”[/one_third]Matthew 24:45-51; 25:1-30
45 “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord has set over his household, to give them their food in due season? 46 Blessed is that servant whom his lord finds doing so when he comes.15 47 Most certainly I tell you that he will set him over all that he has. 48 But if that evil servant should say in his heart, ‘My lord is delaying his coming,’ 49 and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eat and drink with the drunkards, 50 the lord of that servant will come in a day when he doesn’t expect it, and in an hour when he doesn’t know it, 51 and will cut him in pieces, and appoint his portion with the hypocrites. That is where the weeping and grinding of teeth will be. “Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten virgins, who took their lamps,16 and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. Those who were foolish, when they took their lamps, took no oil with them, 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. Now while the bridegroom delayed, they all slumbered and slept. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Behold! The bridegroom is coming! Come out to meet him!’ Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise answered, saying, ‘What if there isn’t enough for us and you? You go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10 While they went away to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was shut. 11 Afterward the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us.’ 12 But he answered, ‘Most certainly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ 13 Watch therefore, for you don’t know the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming.17 14 “For it is like a man, going into another country, who called his own servants, and entrusted his goods to them. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one;18 to each according to his own ability.19 Then he went on his journey. 16 Immediately he who received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 In the same way, he also who got the two gained another two. 18 But he who received the one talent went away and dug in the earth, and hid his lord’s money. 19 “Now after a long time the lord of those servants came, and reconciled accounts with them. 20 He who received the five talents came and brought another five talents, saying, ‘Lord, you delivered to me five talents. Behold, I have gained another five talents in addition to them.’ 21 “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ 22 “He also who got the two talents came and said, ‘Lord, you delivered to me two talents. Behold, I have gained another two talents in addition to them.’ 23 “His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, I will set you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ 24 “He also who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you that you are a hard man, reaping where you didn’t sow, and gathering where you didn’t scatter. 25 I was afraid, and went away and hid your talent in the earth. Behold, you have what is yours.’ 26 “But his lord answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant. You knew that I reap where I didn’t sow, and gather where I didn’t scatter. 27 You ought therefore to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received back my own with interest. 28 Take away therefore the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. 29 For to everyone who has will be given, and he will have abundance, but from him who doesn’t have, even that which he has will be taken away.20 30 Throw out the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’21


Group Dialog:

  1. What illustrations did Jesus use to show the suddenness of His return? What metaphor might you use today?
  2. What were the different events and signs which Jesus spoke of in these five parables?
  3. Readiness not calculation is called for. How do you ready yourself, and remain ready?
  4. What is your attitude toward the end times?
  5. How does your understanding and reckoning with the Scriptures (preparedness) and your readiness (poise and action) affect your attitude and ministry?
  6. Are you being a faithful servant and steward of the spiritual gifts God has entrusted to you, or have you been slothful or negligent in your spiritual service? What is the yield of what has been entrusted to you?

Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series Year C

Last Sunday after Pentecost (C)

Christ the King | Proper 29 | Year C

Our Gospel reading this week, Luke 23:33-43, begins in Section 163 on Christ’s Journey to Golgotha and concludes in Section 164 which focuses on Jesus’ first three hours on the Cross. As you’ll see in the white space within the Harmony of the Gospels there’s must more to “the rest of this story” here and many more within the souls of the redeemed who are together worshiping Christ the King!

[fullwidth menu_anchor=”” backgroundcolor=”#e5e5e5″ backgroundimage=”” backgroundrepeat=”no-repeat” backgroundposition=”left top” backgroundattachment=”scroll” bordersize=”” bordercolor=”” borderstyle=”solid” paddingtop=”20px” paddingbottom=”20px” class=”” id=””][fontawesome icon=”fa-caret-right” circle=”no” size=”small” iconcolor=”#e5e5e5″ circlecolor=”” circlebordercolor=”” flip=”” rotate=”” spin=”no” animation_type=”0″ animation_direction=”down” animation_speed=”0.1″ class=”” id=””][fontawesome icon=”fa-sign-out” circle=”no” size=”medium” iconcolor=”” circlecolor=”” circlebordercolor=”” flip=”” rotate=”” spin=”no” animation_type=”flash” animation_direction=”right” animation_speed=”0.1″ class=”” id=””]Within the chronology of the Harmony of the Gospels this passage falls on Good Friday so we encourage you to bookmark our Holy Week Mini-SeriesUse this series as a Christian formation resource for your small groups, youth group, Sunday school or Bible study next Spring. Be sure to use the new virtual reality, short films, and prayer rooms to help each member of your group see the Holy Land up close in this study.

Note: This week concludes Year C. Take a look at the Gospel Lectionary as you begin to prepare your Bible study series for Year A.[/fullwidth]


Collect: Almighty and everlasting God, whose will it is to restore all things in your well-beloved Son, the King of kings and Lord of lords: Mercifully grant that the peoples of the earth, divided and enslaved by sin, may be freed and brought together under his most gracious rule; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Parsing the Collect – by The Rev. Rob Eaton, Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Hemet, CA (used by permission)


Section 163 | Journey to Golgotha 1

[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 27:31-34
31 When they had mocked him, they took the robe off him, and put his clothes on him,2 and led him away to crucify him. 32 As they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name, and they compelled him to go with them, that he might carry his cross.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

33 When they came to a place called “Golgotha”, that is to say, “The place of a skull,” 34 they gave him sour wine to drink mixed with gall. When he had tasted it, he would not drink. [/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 15:20-23
20 When they had mocked him, they took the purple off him, and put his own garments on him. They led him out to crucify him. 21 They compelled one passing by, coming from the country, Simon of Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to go with them, that he might bear his cross.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22 They brought him to the place called Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, “The place of a skull.” 23 They offered him wine mixed with myrrh to drink, but he didn’t take it.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Luke 23:26-33a

 

 

26 When they4 led him away, they grabbed one Simon of Cyrene,5 coming from the country, and laid on him the cross, to carry it after Jesus.6 27 A great multitude of the people followed him, including women who also mourned and lamented him. 28 But Jesus, turning to them, said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, don’t weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For behold, the days are coming in which they will say, ‘Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.’7 30 Then they will begin to tell the mountains, ‘Fall on us!’ and tell the hills, ‘Cover us.’ 31 For if they do these things in the green tree, what will be done in the dry?” 32 There were also others, two criminals, led with him to be put to death. 33a When they came to the place that is called The Skull, [/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”yes” class=”” id=””]John 19:16b-17
16b So they took Jesus and led him away. 17 He went out, bearing his cross,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to the place called “The Place of a Skull”, which is called in Hebrew, “Golgotha”, [/one_fourth]

Section 164 | First Three Hours of the Crucifixion

[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 27:35-44
35 When they had crucified him, they divided his clothing among them, casting lots, 36 and they sat and watched him there.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

37 They set up over his head the accusation against him written, “THIS IS JESUS, THE KING OF THE JEWS.”8

 

 

 

 

 

38 Then there were two robbers crucified with him, one on his right hand and one on the left.

 

 

39 Those who passed by blasphemed him, wagging their heads, 40 and saying, “You who destroy the temple, and build it in three days, save yourself! If you are the Son of God, come down from the cross!” 41 Likewise the chief priests also mocking, with the scribes, the Pharisees, and the elders, said, 42 “He saved others, but he can’t save himself. If he is the King of Israel, let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him. 43 He trusts in God. Let God deliver him now, if he wants him; for he said, ‘I am the Son of God.’ ” 44 The robbers also who were crucified with him cast on him the same reproach.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 15:24-32

24 Crucifying him, they parted his garments among them, casting lots on them, what each should take.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25 It was the third hour, and they crucified him. 26 The superscription of his accusation was written over him, “THE KING OF THE JEWS.”9

 

 

 

 

27 With him they crucified two robbers; one on his right hand, and one on his left. 28 The Scripture was fulfilled, which says, “He was counted with transgressors.”

 

29 Those who passed by blasphemed him, wagging their heads, and saying, “Ha! You who destroy the temple, and build it in three days, 30 save yourself, and come down from the cross!” 31 Likewise, also the chief priests mocking among themselves with the scribes said, “He saved others. He can’t save himself. 32 Let the Christ, the King of Israel, now come down from the cross, that we may see and believe him.”

 

 

Those who were crucified with him also insulted him.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Luke 23:33b-34, 38, 35-37, 39-43
33 When they came to the place that is called The Skull,10 they crucified him there with the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left.11 34 Jesus said, “Father,12 forgive them,13 for they don’t know what they are doing.”14

 

 

 

Dividing his garments among them, they cast lots.15

 

 

 

 

38 An inscription was also written over him in letters of Greek, Latin, and Hebrew: “THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.”16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

35 The people stood watching.

 

 

 

The rulers with them also scoffed at him, saying, “He saved others.17  Let him save himself, if this is the Christ of God, his chosen one!” 18  36 The soldiers19  also mocked him, coming to him and offering him vinegar, 37 and saying, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!”

 

 

39 One of the criminals who was hanged insulted him, saying, “If you are the Christ, save yourself and us!” 40 But the other answered, and rebuking him said, “Don’t you even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward for our deeds,20 but this man has done nothing wrong.” 42 He said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” 43 Jesus said to him, “Assuredly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”21[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”yes” class=”” id=””]John 19:18, 23-24, 19-22, 25-27
18 they crucified him, and with him two others, on either side one, and Jesus in the middle.

 

23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also the coat. Now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. 24 Then they said to one another, “Let’s not tear it, but cast lots for it to decide whose it will be,” that the Scripture might be fulfilled, which says, “They parted my garments among them. For my cloak they cast lots.” Therefore the soldiers did these things. 19 Pilate wrote a title also, and put it on the cross. There was written, “JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS.” 20 Therefore many of the Jews read this title, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city; and it was written in Hebrew, in Latin, and in Greek. 21 The chief priests of the Jews therefore said to Pilate, “Don’t write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but, ‘he said, I am King of the Jews.’” 22 Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

25 But there were standing by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 Therefore when Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing there, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold your son!” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” From that hour, the disciple took her to his own home.[/one_fourth]


Group Dialog:

  1. How do you feel about the suffering which Jesus experienced?
  2. Why was Jesus’ Crucifixion essential to the reconciliation, well-being, and fortitude of every believer?
  3. Earlier in Phase 5b (Mt 10:38, 16:24, Sections 70b, 83) Jesus says that every disciple must “take up their cross”. How is this to be interpreted in this day and age?
  4. Is Simon’s story similar to you own? Did you come to be a disciple unwittingly, unintentionally or did you seek Him out as did John and Andrew (John 1:35-51, Section  28) and Saul/Paul (Acts 9:1-19; Gal 1:13; 1Tim 1:13-16)?
  5. What questions (or fears) do you have about death, salvation, and your own eternal destiny? If you feel confident, please share how the grace of God and your understand of Scripture has resulted in such peace, confidence, and anticipation.
  6. As we conclude Year C and the Season after Pentecost, how will this lesson affect your thinking as we enter Advent and Year A.

Study Notes:

Categories
5c

A Banquet for All

Hospitality is one of the basic principles of creating real and lasting community. It was a cultural expectation and considered a virtue in the Holy Land, but even in this era heartfelt hospitality means much more than most any other gift or prayer that could be offered. It could be said that its even integral to being human by satisfying our physiological needs for love, belonging, respect, self-actualization and safety. As we study in today’s passage there is much that works against it, beginning with our biases and egocentric priorities.

Podcast: Coming soon

Section 114 | Healing of a Man with Dropsy while Eating with a Prominent Pharisee

Luke 14:1-24
1 When he went1 into the house2 of one of the rulers of the Pharisees3 on a Sabbath to eat bread, they were watching him.4 2 Behold, a certain man who had dropsy5 was in front of him.6  3 Jesus, answering,7 spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, “Is it lawful to heal8 on the Sabbath?” 4 But they were silent.9 He took him, and healed him, and let him go.10 5 He answered them, “Which of you, if your son11 or an ox fell into a well,12 wouldn’t immediately pull him out on a Sabbath day?”13  6 They couldn’t answer14 him regarding these things. 7 He spoke a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the best seats,15 and said to them, 8 “When you are invited by anyone to a marriage feast, don’t sit in the best seat, since perhaps someone more honorable16 than you might be invited by him, 9 and he who invited both of you would come and tell you, ‘Make room for this person.’ Then you would begin, with shame, to take the lowest place. 10 But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when he who invited you comes, he may tell you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. 11 For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” 12 He also said to the one who had invited him, “When you make a dinner or a supper, don’t call your friends, nor your brothers, nor your kinsmen, nor rich neighbors, or perhaps they might also return the favor, and pay you back.17 13 But when you make a feast, ask the poor, the maimed, the lame, or the blind; 14 and you will be blessed,18 because they don’t have the resources to repay you. For you will be repaid in the resurrection of the righteous.”19 15 When one of those20 who sat at the table with him heard these things, he said to him, “Blessed is he who will feast in God’s Kingdom!”21 16 But he said to him, “A certain man made a great supper,22 and he invited many people. 17 He sent out his servant at supper time to tell those who were invited, ‘Come, for everything is ready now.’ 18 They all as one began to make excuses.23 “The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go and see it. Please have me excused.’ 19 “Another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I must go try them out. Please have me excused.’ 20 “Another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I can’t come.’ 21 “That servant came, and told his lord these things. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor, maimed, blind, and lame.’ 22 “The servant said, ‘Lord, it is done as you commanded, and there is still room.’ 23 “The lord said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.24 24 For I tell you that none of those men who were invited will taste of my supper.’”25


Group Dialog:

  1. How adept are you at being hospitable at home, in the community, and in social media?
  2. How do you practice the virtue of hospitality?
  3. Why must humility be manifest for the virtue of hospitality to be at its best?
  4. How has the virtue of Hospitality blessed you? …surprised you? …benefited you?
  5. How has your hospitality improved the lives of those whom you have welcomed?
  6. On a scale of 0-100, with 0 representing the worst listener imaginable, and 100 meaning that you listen better than anybody else, How well do you think you listen to people? (friends, spouse, family, coworkers, boss, God) How would they rate you?
  7. Who does God want at His banquet table? How many people does he want to join Him? Who is invited and  who is excluded?

Study notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series Year C

Sunday closest to November 16 (C)

Year C | Proper 28

As the Season After Pentecost and Year C come to a close we are reading this Sunday from Luke 21:5-19 which takes place on Holy Tuesday and is found in Sections 139a and 139b in phase 5d the Harmony of the GospelsThis is what scholars call the “Olivet Discourse”, in which Jesus aims to prepare his disciples for some of the most troubling questions which can torment the most courageous among us. Pragmatists and partial-preterists alike will appreciate today’s lesson which should help us focus on the things that matter most.

Collect

Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that we may embrace and ever hold fast the blessed hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Parsing the Collect – by The Rev. Rob Eaton, Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Hemet, CA (used by permission)


Section 139a | Setting of the Discourse

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 24:1-3 
Jesus went out from the temple, and was going on his way. His disciples came to him to show him the buildings of the temple. 2 But he answered them,“You see all of these things, don’t you? Most certainly I tell you, there will not be left here one stone on another, that will not be thrown down.” As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? What is the sign of your coming, and of the end of the age?” [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 13:1-4 
1 As he went out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Teacher, see what kind of stones and what kind of buildings!” 2 Jesus said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? There will not be left here one stone on another, which will not be thrown down.” 3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately, “Tell us, when will these things be? What is the sign that these things are all about to be fulfilled?” [/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 21:5-7 
5 As some were talking about the temple1and how it was decorated with beautiful stones and gifts, he said, “As for these things which you see, the days will come, in which there will not be left here one stone on another2 that will not be thrown3 down.”4    

7 They asked him, “Teacher, so when will these things be?5 What is the sign that these things are about to happen?” [/one_third]

Section 139b | Beginning of Birth Pains

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 24:4-14 
Jesus answered them, “Be careful that no one leads you astray. 5 For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will lead many astray. 6 You will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you aren’t troubled, for all this must happen, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there will be famines, plagues, and earthquakes in various places. But all these things are the beginning of birth pains.

9 Then they will deliver you up to oppression, and will kill you. You will be hated by all of the nations for my name’s sake. 10 Then many will stumble, and will deliver up one another, and will hate one another.

 

 

 

 

 

 

11 Many false prophets will arise, and will lead many astray. 12 Because iniquity will be multiplied, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But he who endures to the end will be saved. 14 This Good News of the Kingdom will be preached in the whole world for a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 13:5-13 
Jesus, answering, began to tell them, “Be careful that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and will lead many astray. 7 “When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, don’t be troubled. For those must happen, but the end is not yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places. There will be famines and troubles. These things are the beginning of birth pains.

But watch yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils. You will be beaten in synagogues. You will stand before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony to them.

10 The Good News must first be preached to all the nations. 11 When they lead you away and deliver you up, don’t be anxious beforehand, or premeditate what you will say, but say whatever will be given you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. 12 “Brother will deliver up brother to death, and the father his child. Children will rise up against parents, and cause them to be put to death. 13 You will be hated by all men for my name’s sake,

 

but he who endures to the end will be saved.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 21:8-19 
He said, “Watch out that you don’t get led astray,6  for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is at hand.’ Therefore don’t follow them. When you hear of wars7 and disturbances, don’t be terrified, for these things must happen first, but the end won’t come immediately.” 10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be great earthquakes, famines, and plagues in various places. There will be terrors and great signs from heaven. 12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute8  you, delivering you up to synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for my name’s sake. 13 It will turn out as a testimony for you. 

14 Settle it therefore in your hearts not to meditate beforehand how to answer, 15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to withstand or to contradict. 16 You will be handed over even by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends. They will cause some of you to be put to death. 17 You will be hated by all men for my name’s sake. 18 And not a hair of your head will perish. 19 “By your endurance you will win your lives.[/one_third]


Group Dialog:

  1. Contrast the marvel of the temple’s splendor with the preceding section 138.
  2. What are the three questions which are asked of Jesus, and how does he respond?
  3. Jesus taught that Christians will face Tribulation and persecution.  In living the life of a Christian, how have you been tempted to lose heart, faith, and ignore your calling to share the Good News?
  4. What leads people (and you) away these days? What undermines your faith and readiness to share the Good News?
  5. Given the state of the world, what tenants of your faith has prepared you best for this life and the next?
  6. How do trials (won or lost) turn out to be a testimony for us? What does this tell you about grace and the nature of eternal life?

Notes:

Categories
Uncategorized

Of Foxes and Lions

Today’s reading marks the close of a particular day in the life of Jesus, but more assuredly the end of Herod’s leniency and tolerance towards Jesus’ growing ministry and fame. While Herod determines to be rid of Jesus once and for all, Jesus sets his sights on the purpose for which he came – to seek and save the lost, knowing even that it will cost him his very life. Sometimes self-sacrifice is the only path to success.

Podcast: coming soon


Section 113b | Anticipation of Jesus’ coming Death and His Sorrow over Jerusalem

Luke 13:31-35
31 On that same day,1  some Pharisees2  came, saying to him, “Get out of here, and go away, for Herod3 wants to kill you.” 32 He said to them, “Go and tell that fox,4 ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow,5 and the third day I complete my mission.6 33 Nevertheless I must go on my way7 today and tomorrow and the next day, for it can’t be that a prophet would perish outside of Jerusalem.’ 8   34 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem,9 you who kills the prophets10  and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, like a hen gathers her own brood under her wings, and you refused!11 35 Behold, your house is left to you desolate.12 I tell you, you will not see me until you say, ‘Blessed13 is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ”14  


Group Dialogue:

  1. What does Jesus say must be accomplished in verse 33?
  2. What is your reaction to Jesus’ determination and willingness to do whatever it takes?
  3. Over what circumstance or situations have you been in lament?
  4. Consider your circle of friends, family and acquaintances – what feelings do you have about their spiritual, emotional and physical well-being? What actions has that prompted you to take over the last three years?
  5. Are you certain of your calling? What have you had to sacrifice to give yourself fully to that purpose?
  6. What obstacles and threats have hindered you in ministry? Did you overcome? What did you learn in the process?
  7. Talk about God’s mercy and compassion toward us. How does His mercy affect His judgment of people? And our own judgement of people?

Learning Objectives: courage, divine purpose, God’s mercy, sacrifice and servant leadership


Notes: