Categories
Lectionary Series Year C

Third Sunday of Advent (C)

Our Gospel lesson this Sunday is from Luke 3:7-18, which we place in Phase 1 of Jesus Ministry. In our regular study through the Harmony of the Gospels we read Sections 22, 23 in week 14. You will find our additional study notes, commentary and questions in that study.

As part of our lectionary series and this years special Advent mini-series, we offer you this additional reflection for use with your adult forum or for use by the mid-week Bible study small groups who follow the Sunday lessons.


Scripture:

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 Sadducees coming for his baptism, he said to them, “You offspring of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Therefore produce fruit worthy of repentance! 9 Don’t think to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham for our father,’ for I tell you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. 10 “Even now the ax 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.

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.”[/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:

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Learning Objectives:

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Photo:

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Study Notes:

 

Categories
Lectionary Series Year C

Second Sunday of Advent (C)

Out of silence came hope, and this week’s Gospel reading we hear news of love rather than law. John’s voice resonated out in the wilderness and along the shores of the Jordan, inviting us people to a new life, a new way of being, while preparing them for the one to come – the long awaited Messiah.

Advent 2-Love

CollectMerciful 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.


Gospel Reading: Luke 3:1-6, Section 20, 21 in Phase 1

Section 20
[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 1:1
1 The beginning of the Good News of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 3:1-2
1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar,1¯2 Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, 2 in the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas,4 [/one_half]

Section 21 

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 3:1-6
1 In those days, John the Baptizer came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying,

 

2 “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven 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 ready the way of the Lord. Make his paths straight.”5

 

4 Now John himself 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. 6 They were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]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.6  5 All the country of Judea and all those of Jerusalem went out to him.[/note]The message how ever confronting, is comforting, liberating. indeed, love readies the heart for much joy.[/note] 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” class=”” id=””]Luke 3:3-6
3 He came into all the region around the Jordan,7 preaching the baptism of repentance8 for remission of sins.9 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.10 6 All flesh will see God’s salvation.’ ”1112[/one_third]


Group Dialog:

  1. What forms of governance rule your life?
  2. How have your own sins wrinkled your path and taken you into valleys dark and cold?
  3. What does Jesus teach about our obedience and interaction with God, groups, and governments?
  4. What experiences and lessons have most influenced the attitudinal, behavioral, and spiritual changes in your life?
  5. If you were baptized, share the experience with the group and how it has that transformed your way of being, thinking, doing?
  6. What’s it like to feel the forgiveness and grace of God with regards to the sins you’ve committed since your baptism (commission/omission)?

Learning objectives: allow and encourage deep transformation, affirm the value of baptism, grasp the power of God’s grace and forgiveness, learn repentance, walking the walk.


Image: This is the second image in our advent mini-series.


Study Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series Year C

First Sunday of Advent (C)

As we prepare for the First Sunday of Advent in Year C1, we invite you to participate with us throughout the year adding your comments and reflections within each post in the Lectionary Series, or as you create a small group and journey with Jesus in a chronological study in the Harmony of the Gospels.

In this season of advent we’ll be focusing in on the virtues of hope, love, peace and joy. These virtues are the mandate of every soul, but sadly since the dawn of humanity people have sought to satisfy their desire for such in all sorts of manner, but none will suffice save those who adventure forward with Christ, the new dawn.
Advent 1-Hope
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.


Gospel Reading:  

Luke 21:25-36 | Harmony of the Gospels, Sections 139d,e,f2

Section 139d

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 24:29-31
29 But immediately after the tribulation of those days, the sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken; 30 and then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky. Then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory. 31 He will send out his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together his chosen ones from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.3[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 13:24-27
24 But in those days, after that oppression, the sun will be darkened, the moon will not give its light, 25 the stars will be falling from the sky, and the powers that are in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory.

27 Then he will send out his angels, and will gather together his chosen ones from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the sky.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 21:25-27
25 There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars;4 and on the earth anxiety of nations, in perplexity for the roaring of the sea and the waves; 26 men fainting for fear, and for expectation of the things which are coming on the world: for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.5[/one_third]

Section 139e

[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 knows of that day and hour, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only. 37 “As the days of Noah were, so will the coming of the Son of Man be. 38 For as in those days which were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, 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. 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.[/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,6  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.”7 29 He told them a parable. “See the fig tree8 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.9 32 Most certainly I tell you, this generation10 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.11[/one_third]

Section 139e

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 24:42-43

 

 

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

 

 

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[/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. 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,13 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]


Group Dialog:

  1. What was the context of this discourse? Where was Jesus and what was about to happen?
  2. When you read verses about the end times, what feelings are stirred within you? Are they negative or positive? Aware of such emotion and thought, what do you feel compelled to do, accomplish, change, or say?
  3. What are your concerns and questions about the end times?
  4. Is it important for Christians today believe in the second coming?  Why?
  5. What aspects of your life (issues, secrets, goals, etc.) makes you anxious. What do you do when you’re under pressure and feeling anxious? In such times, what activities and spiritual disciplines help you re-establish a sense of faith, hope and love?
  6. What encouragement does Jesus give his disciples then and now? Read: Psalm 10:16-18; I Thessalonians 3:9-13; II Thessalonians 2:13-17; I Peter 5:6-9.
  7. How do Old Testament prophecies describe the end times? Read Isaiah 13:9-10; Ezekiel 32:7-8; Joel 2:30-31.
  8. How does Jesus describe His return? Compare this passage with John 14:1-3; Acts 1:11; I Thessalonians 4:16-18; Revelation 1:7.
  9. What eschatological view14 do you hold? Is it essential for us to agree on this topic?

Image: 1 of 5 part image theme we’ll present in this Advent mini-series. Depending on your church’s traditions and appreciation for liturgical arts you may see (or recall) an advent candle. The first candle lit is sometimes called the “candle of prophecy” as by it we remember the message of the Old testament prophets, who foretold the Messiah’s birth. Others call it the “hope candle” recognizing that we who are in Christ, have a wellspring of hope which lights the path and illuminates God’s Word to enliven our souls.


Learning Objectives:

A responsible response in light of Jesus second coming. Let hope be well rooted and produce spiritual fruit throughout your life by the power of God’s grace at work in you.


“Unless you can read the Bible right, unless you can understand salvation by grace, you’ll never have a sure and certain hope. But once you understand it’s all about me, Jesus Christ, then you can know that you have peace. You can know that you have this future guaranteed, and you can face anything.” – Tim Keller


Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series

Last Sunday after Pentecost – Christ the King Sunday (B)

This Sunday is called “Christ the King Sunday”. Christ the King Sunday was not created with the Book of Common Prayer or previous forms of liturgy, but began in 1925 by Pope Pius XI. In that time Mussolini’s campaign was gaining popularity among many European people and Fascism was spreading throughout Europe. “Christ the King Sunday” was meant to send a clear message – Christ reigns within the hearts of all his people, He is King over all creation, and his Kingdom is eternal. That’s a message that preached then and still today with world powers, wars, terrorism, and human depravity which do great injustice, but do not shake the foundation of Heaven.

Though Americans aren’t accustomed to royalty, kings and such, we are very clear about wanting our freedom. Ultimately and ironically that is exactly what we get when we surrender fully to the Lordship of Christ. So on this day we celebrate and declare that “Christ and no other is our King”.  The assigned reading is from John 18:33-37, which falls within Section 159 in Phase 5d of the Harmony, on Good Friday of Holy Week.


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.

Scripture:

Section 159 | First phase of the Roman Trial, Jesus before Pilate

[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 27:2, 11-14

 

2 and they bound him, and led him away, and delivered him up to Pontius Pilate, the governor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11 Now Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, “Are you the King of the Jews?” Jesus said to him, “So you say.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12 When he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he answered nothing. 13 Then Pilate said to him, “Don’t you hear how many things they testify against you?” 14 He gave him no answer, not even one word, so that the governor marveled greatly.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 15:1b-5
1b the chief priests, with the elders and scribes, and the whole council, held a consultation, bound Jesus, carried him away, and delivered him up to Pilate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2 Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” He answered, “So you say.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 The chief priests accused him of many things.

4 Pilate again asked him, “Have you no answer? See how many things they testify against you!” 5 But Jesus made no further answer, so that Pilate marveled.[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”no” class=”” id=””]Luke 23:1-5

 

1 The whole company of them rose up and brought him before Pilate.

 

 

 

 

2 They began to accuse him, saying, “We found this man perverting the nation, forbidding paying taxes to Caesar, and saying that he himself is Christ, a king.”

 

 

 

 

 

3 Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” He answered him, “So you say.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 Pilate said to the chief priests and the multitudes, “I find no basis for a charge against this man.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

5 But they insisted, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee even to this place.”[/one_fourth]
[one_fourth last=”yes” class=”” id=””]John 18:28-38
28 They led Jesus therefore from Caiaphas into the Praetorium1. It was early,2 and they themselves didn’t enter into the Praetorium, that they might not be defiled, but might eat the Passover.3 29 Pilate therefore went out to them,4 and said, “What accusation do you bring against this man?” 30 They answered him, “If this man weren’t an evildoer, we wouldn’t have delivered him up to you.” 5  31 Pilate therefore said to them, “Take him yourselves, and judge him according to your law.” 6 Therefore the Jews said to him, “It is not lawful for us to put anyone to death,” 7  32 that the word of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spoke, signifying by what kind of death he should die. 8   33 Pilate therefore entered again into the Praetorium, called Jesus, and said to him,

 

“Are you the King of the Jews?” 34 Jesus answered him, “Do you say this by yourself, or did others tell you about me?” 35 Pilate answered, “I’m not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests delivered you to me. What have you done?” 36 Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not of this world. If my Kingdom were of this world, then my servants would fight, that I wouldn’t be delivered to the Jews. But now my Kingdom is not from here.” 37 Pilate therefore said to him, “Are you a king then?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this reason I have been born, and for this reason I have come into the world, that I should testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” 38 Pilate said to him, “What is truth?” When he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, “I find no basis for a charge against him.[/one_fourth]


Group Dialog:

  1. Consider the setting and the events – “Who’s in charge here?” Pilate? The screaming crowds? The religious leaders? Jesus? God?
  2. What would our lives look like if we truly submitted to the will of Christ in all matters which concern us?
  3. Based on your actions – what are your values? what are your priorities? what rules your life?
    Consider using the Field Guide for Ministry Discernment and Discipleship or reading more about Emotivational Needs.
  4. What allegiances to earthly powers (political, religious, social, personal) lead you to deny, ignore, or rebel against Christ the King?

Christ is King, but not like any other earthly king. He’s the King who wore a crown of thorns, the King whom they crucified, the King who rose from the dead, the King who reigns eternal.

Categories
Lectionary Series

Twenty Fifth Sunday after Pentecost (B)

Sunday’s Gospel reading is from Mark 13:1-8 (sections 139a vs 1-4; and 139b vs 5-13).  As with the last few weeks, the reading is part of Phase 5 in the Harmony of the Gospels. Today’s reading falls on what would have been the Tuesday before his crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection. Oddly enough this passage is not appointed to read on Holy Tuesday, but the Word of God does not return void, no matter when it is read. Jesus’ apocalyptic discourse urges every reader and disciple to choose this day, and this very moment whom we shall serve, worship, and abide.


Scripture:

Section 139a | Setting of the Discourse
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]
Matthew 24:1-3
1 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.” 3 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!”1 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.”2 3 As he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things be? 3 What is the sign that these things are all about to be fulfilled?”4[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]
Luke 21:5-7
5 As some were talking about the temple and how it was decorated with beautiful stones and gifts, he said, 6 “As for these things which you see, the days will come, in which there will not be left here one stone on another that will not be thrown down.”

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

Section 139b | Beginning of Birth Pains
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]
Matthew 24:4-14
4 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. 7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; and there will be famines, plagues, and earthquakes in various places. 8 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
5 Jesus, answering, began to tell them,“Be careful that no one leads you astray. 6 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. 8 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.

9 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
8 He said, “Watch out that you don’t get led astray, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is at hand.’ Therefore don’t follow them. 9 When you hear of wars 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 persecute 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]


Collect for this Sunday: 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.

Collect for Holy Tuesday: Almighty ever-living God, who as an example of humility for the human race to follow caused our savior to take flesh and submit to the Cross, graciously grant that we may head his lesson of patient suffering and so merit a share in his Resurrection.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.


Group Dialog:

  1. How often do we demand that Jesus answer and act according to our schedule, agenda, or convenience?
  2. In what situations do you find yourself most frustrated and even demanding of God?
  3. Have you been led astray by poor teaching and blind obedience in the past? What did it take to get back on track?

Learning Objectives:
Life is something we learn about through its peak moments of deep pain and great joy. All the rest of the time we spend trying to assimilate both, to make sense of them, to make ourselves capable of both. Choose to take your questions to God and rest in the assurance of his sovereignty, rather than having a questioning spirit.


Study Notes: 

Categories
Lectionary Series

Twenty Fourth Sunday after Pentecost (B)

In This Sunday’s Gospel reading we find an exemplary reason for devoting oneself to a chronological study in the Harmony of the Gospels.  While the lectionary reading is from Mark 12:38-44, this can be found in Sections 137a and 138 (which begs the question of what happened in Section 137b. While our timelines are not not yet complete (at the writing of this post) they will prove helpful in future years. The whole sequence of events in our study today takes place at the Temple in Jerusalem on Tuesday of Holy Week (sections 131-140) just after Jesus’ triumphal entry and days before his crucifixion.  As you can see in the pdf handout of our mini-series, it was a busy day in the life of Christ. Read the lesson, study notes, and further thoughts then open up a lively conversation in your weekly Bible Study or Sunday school class about the day’s events and the pangs that strike the depths of your heart while reading this passage.


Scripture:

Section 137a | Seven Woes against the Teachers of the Law and Pharisees
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 23:1-36
Then Jesus spoke to the multitudes and to his disciples, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees sat on Moses’ seat. 3 All things therefore whatever they tell you to observe, observe and do, but don’t do their works; for they say, and don’t do. 4 For they bind heavy burdens that are grievous to be borne, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not lift a finger to help them. 5 But all their works they do to be seen by men. They make their phylacteries broad, enlarge the fringes of their garments, 6 and love the place of honor at feasts, the best seats in the synagogues, 7 the salutations in the marketplaces, and to be called ‘Rabbi, Rabbi’ by men. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 12:38-40
38 In his teaching he said to them,“Beware of the scribes,

 

 

 

 

who like to walk in long robes, and to get greetings in the marketplaces, 39 and the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts: 40  those who devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.”[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 20:45-47
45 In the hearing of all the people, he said to his disciples, 46 “Beware of those scribes

 

 

 

who like to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the marketplaces, the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts; 47 who devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers: these will receive greater condemnation.”[/one_third]
Mt 23:8 But don’t you be called ‘Rabbi,’ for one is your teacher, the Christ, and all of you are brothers. 9 Call no man on the earth your father, for one is your Father, he who is in heaven. 10 Neither be called masters, for one is your master, the Christ. 11 But he who is greatest among you will be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. 13 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows’ houses, and as a pretense you make long prayers. Therefore you will receive greater condemnation. 14 “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you shut up the Kingdom of Heaven against men; for you don’t enter in yourselves, neither do you allow those who are entering in to enter. 15 Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you travel around by sea and land to make one proselyte; and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of Gehenna as yourselves. 16 “Woe to you, you blind guides, who say, ‘Whoever swears by the temple, it is nothing; but whoever swears by the gold of the temple, he is obligated.’ 17 You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifies the gold? 18 ‘Whoever swears by the altar, it is nothing; but whoever swears by the gift that is on it, he is obligated?’ 19 You blind fools! For which is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifies the gift? 20 He therefore who swears by the altar, swears by it, and by everything on it. 21 He who swears by the temple, swears by it, and by him who has been living in it. 22 He who swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God, and by him who sits on it. 23 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint, dill, and cumin, and have left undone the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faith. But you ought to have done these, and not to have left the other undone. 24 You blind guides, who strain out a gnat, and swallow a camel! 25 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and unrighteousness. 26 You blind Pharisee, first clean the inside of the cup and of the platter, that its outside may become clean also. 27 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitened tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but inwardly are full of dead men’s bones, and of all uncleanness. 28 Even so you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but inwardly you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. 29 “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you build the tombs of the prophets, and decorate the tombs of the righteous, 30 and say, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we wouldn’t have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets.’ 31 Therefore you testify to yourselves that you are children of those who killed the prophets. 32 Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers. 33 You serpents, you offspring of vipers, how will you escape the judgment of Gehenna? 34 Therefore behold, I send to you prophets, wise men, and scribes. Some of them you will kill and crucify; and some of them you will scourge in your synagogues, and persecute from city to city; 35 that on you may come all the righteous blood shed on the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zachariah son of Barachiah, whom you killed between the sanctuary and the altar. 36 Most certainly I tell you, all these things will come upon this generation.

Section 137b | Jesus’ Sorrow over Jerusalem
Matthew 23:37-39 
37 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets, and stones those who are sent to her! How often I would have gathered your children together, even as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you would not! 38 Behold, your house is left to you desolate. 39 For I tell you, you will not see me from now on, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’ ”

Section 138 | A Poor Widow’s Gift of All She Had
[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 12:41-44
41 Jesus sat down opposite the treasury, and saw how the multitude cast money into the treasury. Many who were rich cast in much. 42 A poor widow came, and she cast in two small brass coins, which equal a quadrans coin. 43 He called his disciples to himself, and said to them, “Most certainly I tell you, this poor widow gave more than all those who are giving into the treasury, 44 for they all gave out of their abundance, but she, out of her poverty, gave all that she had to live on.”[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 21:1-4
He looked up and saw the rich people who were putting their gifts into the treasury. He saw a certain poor widow casting in two small brass coins.

He said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow put in more than all of them, 4 for all these put in gifts for God from their abundance, but she, out of her poverty, put in all that she had to live on.”[/one_half]


Group Dialog:

coming soon

Further Thoughts:

While Holy Week isn’t for months (March 27, 2016), there no bad time to ponder the lessons in today’s Gospel reading. When hearing the clergy read the Gospel we ought to be struck by the message of faithful giving, but even more the widow put in everything she had – as would Jesus when he laid down his life on the cross. The moment must have been bearing down upon him, and ruminating in the minds of his disciples as they discussed and shared the events of that week and recorded them with great detail in their writings.

While some might like to focus the lesson on giving, the real theme of this day in the life of our Lord is about our posture and relationship to Jesus. We see this especially in the narrative sequence (sections 131-140) in the Harmony of the Gospels, in which our reading appears to take place about mid-day, and a significant lesson is captured by Matthew 23:8-39 wherein Jesus exposes the hypocrisy of the religious leaders.

Study Notes:

coming soon

Categories
Lectionary Series

All Saints Day (B)

Other than containing the Bible’s shortest verse, this weeks Gospel reading is flat out famous because of the amazing miracle – Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. From personal pain and grief to inexplicable joy and greater faith. Our passage this week is from Section 118b (John 11:17-44) in the Harmony of the Gospels, and John alone tells the story. To tell it compassionately one should at least read from the beginning of the chapter (Section 118a) where we read of Lazarus’ sickness and death. The story captures sentiments and responses that many of us have had when face to face with the realities of life and death, but it can also challenge our own faith for such things seem impossible.


Scripture:

John 11:32-44
32 Therefore1 when Mary2 came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell3 down at his feet, saying to him, “Lord, if you would have been here, my brother wouldn’t have died.”4¯5 33 When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews weeping who came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,6 34 and said, “Where have you laid him?” They told him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Jesus wept.7 36 The Jews therefore said, “See how much affection he had for him!” 37 Some of them said, “Couldn’t this man, who opened the eyes of him who was blind,8 have also kept this man from dying?” 38 Jesus therefore, again groaning in himself, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone lay against it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.”Martha,9 the sister of him who was dead, said to him, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Didn’t I tell you that if you believed, you would see God’s glory?” 41 So they took away the stone from the place where the dead man was lying.10 Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, “Father, I thank you that you listened to me. 42  I know that you always listen to me, but because of the multitude standing around I said this, that they may believe that you sent me.” 43 When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 He who was dead came out, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Free him, and let him go.”


Further Thoughts:

Grief is an emotional reaction or response to loss. However loss is not just about losing someone we love to death, we may experience intense loss at the end of a relationship, a loss of autonomy or purpose, our job, our home, our freedom, even our health. In her remarkable book, On Death and Dying. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross wrote about the emotional process and experience one faces in such times. While its is appealing, its grossly inaccurate, and she herself did not intend to “set in stone certain steps” but rather to help people understand the array of emotions that are common, normal and expected. A tool for the grieving and those who love them. In the same way, Greg Troxell (founder of Harmony Bible) has mapped an array of emotions in the Emotivational Spectrum, as a tool to guide individuals (and those who share the journey with them) to feel and understand their current condition, motivational needs, and aspirations so that they can live in the fullness of that moment and make healthy choices.

For those still learning how to sojourn with someone facing loss, particularly death, here are some tips from a hospice company and some of our own:

  • Pray for guidance, courage, and compassion before going, calling, or approaching them
  • Just Listen. Don’t philosophize or preach.
  • Feel with them. Express empathy
  • When the moment feels right, share your favorite memories. Remember that your friend wants to know that the person they still love is also cherished by others, that they will be remembered, and missed
  • Make an offer of practical help. Don’t insist and don’t add another decision.  Grief can be exhausting and paralyzing. Say something like, “Can I come by and…”.
  • 1,2,5,10 years later – it still hurts. Remember anniversaries and honor loved ones. Take time to share a pot of coffee, or an activity they enjoy

John 11:25 are the resounding gospel note that we proclaim this day: “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live.”


Group Dialog:

  1. What types of loss have you endured?
  2. What do the preceding verses (John 11:1-32) lead you to ponder about the ‘bad things’ in your life experience?
  3. What can we learn from Jesus’ response to Mary’s opening indictment?
  4. What manner of hope, help, and healing did you find in the fray of such times?
  5. How was your faith manifest to you in and after that season of loss?
  6. What has changed since then?
  7. Having read the accounts of Jesus healing so many (and the Apostles as well) do you believe healing is possible today? How does your response match up with your personal experience and testimonies you’ve heard?

Learning Objectives:

Healing, intercession, God’s timing, faith, being honest about our emotions, emotions reveal what we value, how to make healthy choices in tough times, prayer, doubt, grief, sorrow, living with vitality.


Study Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series

Twenty Second Sunday after Pentecost (B)

old raod from Jericho to JerusalemAs Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem for the last time he meets Bartimaeus, a young man who was blind.  This event falls in Phase 5b, Section 126 of the Harmony of the Gospels and is also recorded by Matthew and Luke. The blind depended on their family and the community more than most. Bartimaeus waited for help on the side of the road from Jericho to Jerusalem hoping that a traveler to the Holy City would pass on God’s blessing by tossing him a coin or two, but when he realized it was Jesus he cried out for mercy and healing.


Scripture:

[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 20-29-34
29 As they went out from Jericho, a great multitude followed him.

 

30 Behold, two blind men1   sitting by the road, when they heard that Jesus was passing by, cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, you son of David!” 31 The multitude rebuked them, telling them that they should be quiet, but they cried out even more, “Lord, have mercy on us, you son of David!”

 

 

32 Jesus stood still, and called them, and asked, “What do you want me to do for you?” 33 They told him, “Lord, that our eyes may be opened.” 34 Jesus, being moved with compassion, touched their eyes; and immediately their eyes received their sight, and they2 followed him. [/one_third]
[one_third last=”no” class=”” id=””]Mark 10:46-52
46 They came to Jericho.3 As he went out from Jericho, with his disciples and a great multitude, the son of Timaeus, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the road.

47 When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out, and say, “Jesus, you son of David, have mercy on me!” 48 Many rebuked him, that he should be quiet, but he cried out much more, “You son of David, have mercy on me!”4

49 Jesus stood still, and said, “Call him.” They called the blind man, saying to him, “Cheer up! Get up. He is calling you!” 50 He, casting away his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus. 51 Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?”5 The blind man said to him, “Rabboni, that I may see again.” 52 Jesus said to him, “Go your way. Your faith has made you well.” Immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus on the way.6[/one_third]
[one_third last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Luke 18-35-43
35 As he came near Jericho,7

 

a certain blind man sat by the road, begging. 36 Hearing a multitude going by, he asked what this meant. 37 They told him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by. 38 He cried out, “Jesus, you son of David, have mercy on me!” 39 Those who led the way rebuked him, that he should be quiet; but he cried out all the more, “You son of David, have mercy on me!” 40 Standing still, Jesus commanded him to be brought to him. When he had come near, he asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do?” He said, “Lord, that I may see again.” 42 Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight. Your faith has healed you.” 43 Immediately he received his sight and followed him, glorifying God. All the people, when they saw it, praised God.[/one_third]


Group Dialog:

  1. Have you ever felt like you are struggling in the darkness, wanting to find Jesus, but not knowing how to get to him?
  2. How does this story of Bartimaeus remind you of your own needs and the needs of the world, your petitions to God, the encouragement and response of others?
  3. Who among you is in need of the hand of a friend, or even a stranger, to guide them into the presence of God?
  4. How good are you at being attentive to the needs and concerns of others as you go about your day?
  5. Why do you think Jesus was so determined to get to Jerusalem, knowing that he knew about his coming death?
  6. What sacrifices are you making now to fulfill your vocation in ministry?

Study Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series

Twenty First Sunday after Pentecost (B)

Our gospel reading this Sunday is from Mark 10:35-45 and the same story is recorded in Matthew 20:20-28 in Section 125b.  The interaction and requests by James, John and their mother, as recorded by Matthew, may seem egotistic and self-centered, or be construed as the embers of an unsanctified worldview. As we study today’s gospel reading, let us consider folly of keeping hold of such roons from our old self.


Scripture:

[one_half last=”no” class=”” id=””]Matthew 20:20-28
20 Then the mother1 of the sons of Zebedee came to him with her sons, kneeling2 and asking a certain thing of him. 21 He said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Command that these, my two sons, may sit, one on your right hand, and one on your left hand, in your Kingdom.” 22 But Jesus answered, “You don’t know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They said to him, “We are able.” 23 He said to them, “You will indeed drink my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with, but to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it is for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” 24 When the ten heard it, they were indignant with the two brothers. 25 But Jesus summoned them, and said, “You know that the rulers of the nations lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you, but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. 27 Whoever desires to be first among you shall be your bondservant, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”[/one_half]
[one_half last=”yes” class=”” id=””]Mark 10:35-45
35 James and John, the sons of Zebedee,3  came near to him, saying, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we will ask.”4 36 He said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” 37 They said to him, “Grant to us that we may sit, one at your right hand, and one at your left hand,5 in your glory.”6¯7 38 But Jesus said to them, “You don’t know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” 39 They said to him, “We are able.” Jesus said to them, “You shall indeed drink the cup that I drink,8 and you shall be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; 40 but to sit at my right hand and at my left hand is not mine to give, but for whom it has been prepared.” 41 When the ten heard it, they began to be indignant towards James and John.9  42 Jesus summoned them, and said to them, “You know that they who are recognized as rulers over the nations lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 But it shall not be so among you, but whoever wants to become great among you shall be your servant.10 44 Whoever of you wants to become first among you, shall be bondservant of all. 45 For the Son of Man also came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”11[/one_half]


The story takes place in Phase 5b of our chronological study through the Harmony of the Gospels. The disciples had been with Jesus for over two years, but they, like us, had much to learn, and needed to let the gospel sink in to their hearts and minds. We live in an ambitious world, wherein people strive to be, to become, or to know, who is the best, richest, smartest, in the world. Ah, but we who claim to be followers of Christ should not be concerned with such things.


Group Dialog:

  1. In what ways or topics do you keep score or follow who is “on top” and who’s “below you”?
  2. Whats the difference between ambition and vanity vs aspiration and vocation?
  3. Warren Wiersbe reminds us to “be careful when we pray because we might get what we ask for” – Think on that which you desire most… What has it cost you already? What more might it cost you?
  4. Are you willing to serve instead of rule? Are you willing to serve before you rule? Are you willing to serve as you rule?
  5. What are the motives (the emotivations) behind your actions and aspirations?

Study Notes:

Categories
Lectionary Series

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost (B)

Our reading this Sunday comes from Mark 10:17-31, in Section 124a of the Harmony of the Gospels. This teach of Christ is perhaps particularly poignant to those on each pew and down every aisle as Jesus answers not only a soul stirring question and desire of epic scale.

Section 124a
[one_third last=”no”]Matthew 19:16-30
16 Behold, one came to him and said, “Good teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” 17 He said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but one, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” 18 He said to him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “ ‘You shall not murder.’ ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ ‘You shall not steal.’ ‘You shall not offer false testimony.’19 ‘Honor your father and your mother.’ And, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20 The young man said to him, “All these things I have observed from my youth. What do I still lack?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 22 But when the young man heard the saying, he went away sad, for he was one who had great possessions. 23 Jesus said to his disciples, “Most certainly I say to you, a rich man will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven with difficulty.

 

24 Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into God’s Kingdom.” 25 When the disciples heard it, they were exceedingly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” 26 Looking at them, Jesus said, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” 27 Then Peter answered, “Behold, we have left everything, and followed you. What then will we have?” 28 Jesus said to them, “Most certainly I tell you that you who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on the throne of his glory, you also will sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 Everyone who has left houses, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive one hundred times, and will inherit eternal life.

 

30 But many will be last who are first; and first who are last.[/one_third]
[one_third last=”no”]Mark 10:17-31
17 As he was going out into the way, one ran to him, knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” 18 Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except one—God. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not give false testimony,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and mother.’ ”

 

20 He said to him, “Teacher, I have observed all these things from my youth.” 21 Jesus looking at him loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack. Go, sell whatever you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me, taking up the cross.” 22 But his face fell at that saying, and he went away sorrowful, for he was one who had great possessions. 23 Jesus looked around, and said to his disciples, “How difficult it is for those who have riches to enter into God’s Kingdom!” 24 The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus answered again, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter into God’s Kingdom! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye than for a rich man to enter into God’s Kingdom.” 26 They were exceedingly astonished, saying to him, “Then who can be saved?” 27 Jesus, looking at them, said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God, for all things are possible with God.” 28 Peter began to tell him, “Behold, we have left all, and have followed you.”

 

 

29 Jesus said, “Most certainly I tell you, there is no one who has left house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or land, for my sake, and for the sake of the Good News, 30 but he will receive one hundred times more now in this time: houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and land, with persecutions; and in the age to come eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last; and the last first.”[/one_third]

[one_third last=”yes”]Luke 18:18-30
18 A certain ruler asked him, saying, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

19 Jesus asked him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good, except one: God. 20 You know the commandments: ‘Don’t commit adultery,’ ‘Don’t murder,’ ‘Don’t steal,’ ‘Don’t give false testimony,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’ ”

 

21 He said, “I have observed all these things from my youth up.” 22 When Jesus heard these things, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have, and distribute it to the poor. Then you will have treasure in heaven. Come, follow me.” 23 But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was very rich. 24 Jesus, seeing that he became very sad, said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter into God’s Kingdom!

 

 

 

25 For it is easier for a camel to enter in through a needle’s eye than for a rich man to enter into God’s Kingdom.” 26 Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” 27 But he said, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.”

28 Peter said, “Look, we have left everything and followed you.”

 

 

 

29 He said to them, “Most certainly I tell you, there is no one who has left house, or wife, or brothers, or parents, or children, for God’s Kingdom’s sake, 30 who will not receive many times more in this time, and in the world to come, eternal life.”[/one_third]


Godliness is virtuous, and by his grace we are becoming like Christ in character and conduct. We are called to follow Christ and we are instructed to turn from temptation, repent from sin, and all forms of falsehood, arrogance, and malice.  In Jesus’ day, as many think today, wealth was considered a sign of God’s blessing and favor. However, it is more often the case that when a person acts as a steward of their wealth and cash – generously giving to aid those in need, sickness, and adversity they themselves become the blessing, and are blessed by their giving. But those who hoard, or turn a blind eye to the needs of others and those who manipulate others, make loans, or give conditionally, simply burden themselves with worry, and material possessions.


Group Dialog:

  1. What is it you desire most?
  2. What have you been pursuing with greater interest?
  3. What are the abundant gifts which God has given you?
  4. In what manner do you feel poor, needy, wanting?
  5. In addition to Christ, who do you turn to give you aid or satisfy your needs?
  6. Are you freely sharing that gift with others?
  7. What do you think (fear and hope) would happen if you simply tried to give it all away?

Media:
Satisfied from Underneath The Armor by Josh Bales