Good morning!
We're so glad you chose to join us for Pentecost!
When we meet together in person, we take time to share our joys and concerns. Consider your last week, and any prayer requests you might have. If you would like, you can share prayer requests as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Dear Heavenly Father, on this day, 2000 years ago, you inaugurated the church by having the Holy Spirit indwell in your believers. We rejoice that you have allowed us, men and women, Jew and Gentile, to experience new life. Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, our comforter, our convictor, our guide, and so many other things. And may we continue to celebrate this day until you return again. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Acts 9:9-17.
Paul was a dedicated Pharisee. His teacher, Gamaliel, was probably one of the greatest teachers at the time. Paul was determined to keep their religion pure. He hunted Christians and put them in jail! Paul grew up knowing about God, but he didn’t believe Jesus was the Messiah.
One day, while traveling to the town of Damascus, Jesus spoke to Paul in a blinding light! Paul was knocked off his horse and struck blind. Paul’s response: “Who are you Lord” (Acts 9:5 a previous verse.) That encounter convinced Paul that Jesus was the Messiah. Paul dedicated his life to telling others about Him. So what can we learn from Paul?
Conclusion
(source: gotquestions.org) 1. Paul's life teaches us that we’re never too bad to be rescued and used by God! Paul had been an enemy of Jesus, but became a new man by accepting Jesus as Savior. Paul proves that we don’t have to have perfect lives for Jesus to love us and save us. 2. We also learn that you can't know enough for God to accept you. Paul grew up learning all about the Scriptures and Jewish law, and yet he didn't believe that Jesus was the Messiah until Jesus showed up face to face. Knowing about God isn't enough. We must know His Son Jesus to know Him. 3. Paul teaches us that loving Jesus means sharing Jesus. Paul didn't accept the forgiveness of Jesus and keep it to himself. Even though Paul was insulted, beaten, and even thrown in jail, he never stopped telling people that Jesus is the Savior of the world. 4. The amazing things Paul did were actually amazing things that God did through him. Paul reminds us that when we remember that God works through us, that's when we are strongest!
Prayer
Heavenly Father it is sobering to think how well you know us. Thank you for the inspiring stories of your zealous ones! Empower and guide us to have similar zeal in doing great things for you. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Thought to Remember Christ calls us not only to him but also for him.
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the Psalter.
Next week, we will be starting the summer quarter, The Righteous Reign of God. The first lesson of the quarter will be on Isaiah 52:7-12.
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Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together in person, we take time to share our joys and concerns. Consider your last week, and any prayer requests you might have. If you would like, you can share prayer requests as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Thank You, Father, that I am born again and that You have saved me form sin and death, through Christ Jesus my Lord, that I have been born from above in spirit and truth.
Lord, I just want to thank You for the wonderful things that took place the moment that I trusted in Jesus as Saviour. Thank You, that You transferred me from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of Your dear Son. Thank You, that I am accepted in Christ Jesus, Your beloved Son and have been clothed in His righteousness – Thank You that I have become a child of God and been made a joint-heir with Jesus. Thank You that in Him I am seated in heavenly places and that I have become eternally secure, having been given eternal life, by faith in Jesus Christ my Saviour. Thank You also for the understanding that the moment that I was born again, Your Holy Spirit baptised me, once and forever, into the body of Christ, that He placed me eternally into that body of believers that is called the Church. Thank You for this precious baptism into Christ and may I learn to grow in grace and in a knowledge Him Who loved me and gave Himself for me. Fill me day by day with Your Spirit. Lead and guide me in the days that lie ahead and thank You that in Christ I am saved by grace alone, through faith alone in Christ alone and that He did it all and it is finished. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Today's lesson is on Acts 8:29-39.
A central figure in today’s lesson is referred to as “Phillip the evangelist, one of the seven” Like his colleague Stephen, Phillip moved from a ministry of feeding widows to preaching the gospel. Phillip was the first to take the gospel to the Samaritans in fulfillment of Jesus’ directions in Act 1:8. “But ye shall receive power, after the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." This happened as a result of persecution In Jerusalem. During a highly productive ministry in Samaria, an angel of the Lord directed that Phillip “Go South to the road- the desert road- that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.”
Acts 8 : 27-28 reveals several facts regarding the man Philip encountered in today’s text. First he was from Ethiopia, a kingdom in Africa that is south of Egypt. Second, he was a eunuch, a castrated man. Eunuchs were found in royal courts throughout the ancient world. Some rulers thought they were more reliable in general and trustworthy around woman in particular. Third, he was a servant to royalty. In particular, he served the queen of the Ethiopians as one having charge over the treasury. He was indeed a person of influence and wealth. He would have to be wealthy to purchase a copy of Isaiah. The Great Isaiah Scroll measures about 9 inches in height and 24 feet in length. Philip might have been intimidated by the splendor of the eunuch’s chariot and thought any approach would be scorned. God’s Spirit, though, knew the heart of the man in the chariot had been prepared by his reading of Isaiah and so prompted Philip to approach. One opinion why he was reading Isaiah is that being a Eunuch he was forbidden by the law of Moses to worship or to be converted to Judaism. He would have been a God-feared. In Isaiah 56:3-5, it reads, “Let no Foreigner who is bound to the Lord say, 'The Lord will surely exclude me from his people.' And let no eunuch complain, 'I am only a dry tree.' For this is what the Lord says: 'To the eunuchs who keep the Sabbaths, who choose what pleases me and hold fast to my covenant-to the I will give within my temple and its walls a memorial and a name better than sons and daughters; I will give them an everlasting name that will endure forever.'" Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. Philip trusting the Holy Spirit, interrupted the man and asked if he understood what he was reading. "How can I unless someone explains it to me?" So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. The man was reading the passage of Scripture, "He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its Shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth." This passage presents one to the clearest prophetic visions of the coming Messiah. This is part of the Servant Song. That text presents the Messiah as one who would suffer in accordance with God’s will rather than serve as a military leader who would fight for the political independence of Israel as many Jews expected. The imagery of sheep and lamb depicts the suffering servant as one who would not fight or protest while on the way to his death. Luke’s account of Jesus’ trials presents him like this silent sheep, especially when he appeared before Herod. "In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak to his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth." The key to this passage from Isaiah is the word humiliation which describes the horrendous treatment that Jesus would undergo during his trials and crucifixion. Jesus was denied justice. Even though the Roman Governor, Pilate, declared that there was no valid charge against Jesus, Pilate still consented to the execution. That made it a case of judicial murder. Jesus, as the suffering servant of Isaiah’s prophecy, seemingly had no hope of being the father of future descendants. The eunuch asked Philip, "Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?" Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news of Jesus. The eunuch wanted baptized. The story of Jesus’ death and resurrection leads to a call for belief in him, repentance from sins and the cleansing of sins in baptism. The believer can rest assured that his or her sins are forgiven and that the presence of the Holy Spirit will be given. The eunuch stated that he believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.This was indeed the man’s confession of faith, the belief that Jesus was God in flesh and that his atoning death was the proper mission of the Messiah as prophesied by Isaiah The man gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. When they came out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea. Life changing conversations can happen in a carriages. He and Philip discussed the Scriptures in depth. They talked about Jesus. As a result of their conversation, the Ethiopian believed and was baptized -- one life changed for eternity. Or was it more than one life changed, as the Ethiopian returned home to spread this message?
Conclusion: The Wonder of Fulfilled Prophecy
Many years ago, I heard Mildred Welshmen Phillips speak of her father, P.H. Welshimer. In the first decades of the twentieth century, Welshimer was the minister of the First Christian Church of Canton, Ohio. At its height, this congregation was often recognized as the largest church in the world, with a Sunday school attendance of 6,000 each Sunday. One of Welshimer’s more audacious public acts was to stage a debate with Clarence Darrow, the attorney who had won national recognition as the defender of evolution in the so-called Scopes Monkey Trial. Darrow was seen as the spokesman of a new kind of person in America, a public figure who was openly agnostic/atheists and who saw the Bible as nonsense, the church as a medieval relic and Christian faith as preposterous. The debate was inconclusive, as most of these sorts of things are, with Darrow rarely engaging the arguments of Welshimer. But, remarkably, the two became friendly after it was all over. Darrow confessed that Welshimer presented one argument about the Bible that gave him pause; its record of prophecy and fulfillment. Welshimer was doing nothing more and nothing less that what Philip did with the Ethiopian. The New Testament is loaded with quotations from the Old Testament that point to Jesus. This is not coincidental or accidental. The reader of Matthew cannot help but notice that he punctuates many of his stories of Jesus with the observation that this happened to fulfill Scripture. Presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of prophecy requires a high level of Bible Knowledge. But as Welshimer’s encounter with Darrow shows, there are opportunities to make gospel claims that are best framed by presenting of prophecy. When Isaiah 53 is read in light of the events of Jesus’ life, we should be struck by the remarkable fact that there are more than seven centuries between the two records! Those who have an inclination for deep, comprehensive knowledge of Scripture and its connections may be given opportunities to witness to unbelievers today in some manner like the Holy Spirit gave to Philip 2,000 years ago. Every generation of Christians must raise up those who are trained in understanding the Bible - their Philips- so they can explain it effectively and accurately to others. Prayer Our Father, you planned for Jesus to come, teach, heal and to go the cross for our salvation. You planned to raise him from the dead. You even orchestrated the meeting of Philip with one who was eager to hear. We welcome your plans that include using us as ones who are ready to preach Jesus. We pray in his name as we prepare ourselves. Amen. Questions
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Acts 9:9-17. It will be Pentecost.
Good morning!
We're so glad you chose to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, use this prayer to get started.
Heavenly Father, we are Christ’s disciples and apostles, people who have learned about you, who follow you, and who are sent out to spread the good news. But each of us is also a beggar, a person whose life has been diminished by trauma and circumstance but who has been freed to live more fully through the power of Jesus Christ.
Help us to be a living witnesses to the life that Christ offers all who are willing to trust him. And so, as we begin our time together this morning, we bring you the names of all who need your healing power. And in his name, we bid them to walk into a future filled with hope and joy. For we ask it in Christ’s name. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Acts 3:1-11.
Lesson context
Following the outpouring the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, the early church followed Jesus in his example of healing the sick and handicapped and caring for the poor and outcast. Not only did the healing and care provide relief for the beneficiaries on a physical level, but it also validated the truth of the gospel and Christianity in general, making people more open to hearing and adopting the gospel as the centerpiece of their lives.
The setting (Acts 3:1-2)
Peter and John were on their way to the temple to pray. Prayer was primarily at three times each day — at early morning, in the middle of the afternoon and at sunset. This was the second of those times. Christians saw themselves as the new direction of Judaism in the years following Christ’s death and resurrection. Therefore, Peter and James were simply following the Jewish customs they had known from birth. As they approached one of the temple gates, the gate called Beautiful, they encountered a lame man who was being carried to the gate, where he would beg for alms, just so he could eke out his survival. We’re told that the man had been lame since birth. Each day, his friends or family carried him to the gate, where he would encounter devout Jews who would likely be more willing to give him a small donation. As he saw the pair approaching the gate, he asked them for money. Peter responded that they had no money to give him. This is a situation that most people have experienced even today, especially when we are on crowded streets in major cities. People approached by beggars today often either ignore them completely or simply say no to their requests, even if they have enough to give. Their thinking often is that the beggar is lazy, that modern welfare programs should be enough to meet the person’s needs. or that it is simply not their responsibility to take care of every poor person on the street. However, for devout Jews in the first century, it was seen as their religious duty to care for the poor.
The expectations (3:3-6a)
Although Peter does not have money to give, he offers the beggar something more. Through the healing power of the Holy Spirit, in the name of the healer Jesus Christ of Nazareth, he invites the man to walk. Peter took the man —who had not walked his entire life — by the right hand and helped him to his feet. Immediately his ankles became strong. The man does not simply walk falteringly, but he jumps. He also praises God for the new life he has received. Jumping and praising are signs not only of the miraculous healing that has taken place but also of the joy the man experiences. He now has new life with new possibilities for independence and self-determination.
The wonder (3:6b-11)
The miraculous healing changed the man’s life. But it did more than that. To all who had known him or seen him at the temple, it was a testimony without words to the healing and saving power of Christ. Theology at that time often saw physical problems such as disability or sickness as resulting from moral failures by that person or their parents. For that reason, disability was grounds for exclusion from the community and the temple. Some believe, therefore, that this beggar would not have been permitted in the temple courts. If that is true, then this would have been the first time the man had ever entered the inner courts. Instead of being consigned to begging at the temple gate, he goes into the Court of the Gentiles, into a covered open-air area known as Solomon’s Colonnade. The healing story concludes with a man who has been freed, who now has access to work and community outside the temple and to fellowship with God and other worshippers inside the temple. His life, like all who encounter the risen Christ, has become a living witness to the power and grace of God through Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
Over half of Jesus’ miracles recorded in the Gospels involved people who were sick, blind, mute, deaf or otherwise suffering a physical disability. This does not count the summary statements where we are told Jesus “healed many” (See Mark 1:34.). He cared deeply about those with physical disabilities. A word used several times to describe Jesus’ attitude and actions in this regard is “compassion.” (See Matthew 14:14; 15:32; 20:34; and Mark 8:2.) Compassion is also seen in the first century church’s acceptance of responsibility to care for those who were unable to care for themselves fully. (Acts 2:45; 4:32-35: 6:1-4; 2 Corinthians 8-9, etc.) The ministries extended to those whose disabilities caused them to be marginalized or ignored by others. The church of today continues to recognize and respond to such a challenge. It does so in a variety of ways; examples are the establishment of hospitals, the design of buildings that have no physical barriers restricting access, and distribution of food via pantries. Peter and John’s care for the man in today’s test gained the attention of others who were then eager to hear Peter’s gospel message. We must conclude that was the ultimate intended result, the most important part, not the healing in and of itself. Physical disabilities last only for this life; spiritual disabilities are eternal. A church’s care for those who have physical challenges should make the church attractive to unbelievers who become open to hearing the gospel and can thereby gain eternal life. Prayer Heavenly Father, help us to anticipate great results as we minister to those who have unique needs. As we do, remind us that our compassion is not an end in and of itself. Rather, we make our obedience to Jesus complete by sharing the gospel, which leads to the eternal life that is available only through Jesus. We pray in his mighty name. Amen. Questions for discussion * We often are so preoccupied with our own lives that we tend to walk past people in need today. How can you practice being more attentive to people you might be tempted to ignore? * In what ways does Peter’s response set a precedent for believers? In what ways does it not? * How can you practice meeting a person’s physical needs while also not ignoring his or her spiritual needs? * What adjustments can our congregation make to ensure that people with disabilities can easily participate in worship? Who should we recruit to help with an appropriate follow through?
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the Passion Translation.
Next week's lesson will be on Acts 8:29-39.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together in person, we take time to share our joys and concerns. Consider your last week, and any prayer requests you might have. If you would like, you can share prayer requests as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
God of all nations, please break down the barriers that divide us and that blunt the wonderful message of your grace. Pour out your Spirit upon us and convict us of our prejudice and selfishness, and replace it with your transcending love. Forgive us, forgive me, when my own shortsightedness and selfishness interferes with the world seeing a united Church proclaiming Jesus as Lord and Savior. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Acts 2:1-8, 14-24, 37-40.
Lesson Context
The work of the Holy Spirit can be peaceful, like the descent of the Spirit on Jesus at his baptism (Luke 3:22). However, it is not always pleasant for those affected. We are told Jesus would baptize with both the Holy Spirit and fire (Luke 3:16). We might think of the destruction of God's enemies, and the testing or purification of his people. The Jewish holiday called the Festival of Harvest, the Festival of Weeks, or the day of the firstfruits is celebrated fifty days after Passover. Our Pentecost celebration occurs at roughly the same time -- seven weeks and one day after the Passover Sabbath. For the Jewish people at the time of Christ, both Passover and the Festival of Weeks were pilgrimage festivals. The people would come to Jerusalem and to the temple. Our book says that we might think of Jerusalem as having a tourist economy. The height of the tourist season would be from Passover to Pentecost. Many visitors would stay for the entire fifty day period between those two observances.
The Spirit Comes
The apostles had been instructed to wait in Jerusalem by Jesus. Initially, this would have been the original 11 apostles, but the number of followers grew to about 120. It had been ten days since Jesus' departure. However, the people visiting would start leaving the next day, at the end of the festival. Our book also says that the followers would soon be scattered due to persecution. The followers experienced the sound of a violent wind. Our book points out that this does not mean that there was actually wind. The followers then saw tongues of fire that divided and settled on the followers. There was no burning or injury from the fire. Both the sound and flame were supernatural things from God. Following the sound and flame, the Spirit filled the followers of Jesus. This allowed the followers to be heard in each listener's native language. This was a huge deal! Because the people in Jerusalem were from many different places, they also spoke many different languages. These would have included Greek, Aramaic and Latin, among others. The miracle shown here is that the speakers did not know the other languages. But they were still able to be understood.
The Apostle Preaches
In the verses we skipped, some people doubted, even suggesting that those speaking might be drunk. Peter addresses this idea with the crowd. It is so early in the morning, no one is likely to drunk. Instead, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel in the Old Testament (Joel 2:28-32). The Jewish people had not experienced prophecy for generations. Our book says that, "We understand this to mean that what remain are the events of the end of time: the return of Christ and the final judgment." Everyone would have known of Jesus of Nazareth as a miracle worker. Peter attributes the miraculous ability to God. The people also would have known about Jesus' death on the cross. However, God's plan did not end there. God had raised Jesus to live again.
The Crowd Reacts
In the next set of skipped verses, Peter offered further proof that Jesus was the Messiah. The people's reaction suggests that they believed what Peter had to say. Peter tells them to repent and be baptized. To repent is to turn away from sin and toward God in heart, mind and lifestyle. Baptism is a work of God, when in God's chosen time, regeneration and renewal happen (see Romans 6:4, Colossians 2:12, Galatians 3:27, Titus 3:5, 1 Peter 3:21, Ephesians 2:8-9). By doing these things, God will forgive us. We will receive the Holy Spirit. Peter says that this will apply to "you and your children and for all who are far off." Initially, the listeners probably thought of this as applying to all of the Jewish people, who were widely spread out in the Roman Empire. Today, we also believe that this applies to the Gentiles as well.
Conclusion
Acts 2 presents something fundamental: the Holy Spirit has come, and it has come with power. The long waiting period is over. There is power in the gospel. When this message is preached faithfully , God's Spirit is active in the reception of it. This is true whether preaching from a pulpit or sharing with a friend. Whenever the gospel is communicated, God's Spirit is working with us to convict the hearer of his truth and bring that person to faith in Christ.
Prayer
God, may we never doubt the power of your Holy Spirit to change everything according to your will. May your Spirit work powerfully in our lives, as Jesus promised. We pray in his name. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
This week's benediction comes from the New International Readers' Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Acts 3:1-11.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together in person, we take time to share our joys and concerns. Consider your last week, and any prayer requests you might have. If you would like, you can share prayer requests as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Heavenly Father, thank You that You have not hidden the truth from us, but revealed it in Your Word. Thank You that I am part of that great cloud of Church-age believers who are witnesses to the truth of the glorious gospel of grace, which was started at Pentecost and which has spread to every nation and tribe, people, and language. Thank You that I have been born again by the power of the Holy Spirit and baptized into the Body of Christ, which had its beginning in that special room on that first day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was sent to be the permanent, indwelling Helper for all Christians. In Jesus' name, AMEN.
Today's lesson is on Acts 1:1-11.
The book of Acts, written by Luke, begins with a flashback. It is part two of his writings. The gospel of Luke is about Jesus and the book of Acts is about the church. It may surprise you to know that Luke is a Gentile and wrote more of the New Testament than anyone else. His writings are very detailed and can be corroborated with historical details. Although historians believe that the name Theophilus means anyone who loves God; we simply do not know.
Verse 8 is Luke’s version of the great commandment found in Matthew chapter 28. “Go to the ends of the earth and be my witnesses.” Although these verses are different, they convey the same message and that message applies to Christians today. As modern disciples we respond differently. Some of us become missionaries, others find fulfillment in supporting the missions of our church and the larger missions of the Synod or those of Louisville. What matters is that we walk the walk and talk the talk. It matters that we are concerned for those who do not know Jesus. Our love for others matters. Our sacrifices will never be as great as Jesus, but our obedience and small attempts are pleasing God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may we be the generation that finally fulfills your desire to share our witness about your Son with all the people of the earth. May your Holy Spirit give us strength and courage to work toward this goal. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen Thought to Remember The gospel must be spread NOW
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Acts 2:1-8, 14-24, 37-40.
Good morning!
We are so happy you chose to join us today!
When we meet together in person, we take time to share our joys and concerns. Consider your last week, and any prayer requests you might have. If you would like, you can share prayer requests as a comment on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below to get started.
Dear Lord, thank you for your forgiveness. Thank you for not abandoning us to our mistakes, but for reaching out instead to bring us home. Help cleanse me of my sin and help me accept your mercy without shame. Thank you for the love you have poured out for me and all of your children. Help me live out of that love today. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
Today's lesson is on John 21:15-19.
This lesson picks up immediately where the previous lesson left off when Jesus cooks breakfast for some of the disciples who were fishing. We note that the focus narrows from the disciples in general to Peter specifically. But keep in mind that as Jesus and Simon Peter speak, they are still in the presence of the others, including John.
The New Testament testifies in various ways to Peter's unique and ongoing role in Jesus' ministry and in the earliest life of the church. Along with Paul, Peter stands out among the apostles in terms of his fame and influence. Peter was one of the three apostles considered by Paul to be “pillars”of the church. Peter emerged early on as a leader, bold in word and deed. He was among the first to recognize that when Jesus told his followers to “go and make disciples of all nations”, he really did mean to go to Gentiles without requiring them to take up Jewish practices before accepting him. In Acts 10 it tells of the vision that Peter had about the unclean food that God had told him to eat. While Peter was wondering about the meaning of this vision, the men sent by Cornelius the Centaurian who had seen an angel who told him to send for Peter to come to Cornelius house. While Peter was there the Holy Spirit came upon all that was there to hear his message just the same as the Holy Spirit had came upon them on Pentecost. Peter's influence resounded throughout the church. The impact of the events of today's text are therefore incalculable . Jesus asked Peter “Do you love me more that these?” Peter had overtly denied Jesus while Jesus was on trial. One explanation for Jesus question is simple redemption. This understanding was widespread in ancient Christian interpretation. Jesus was giving Peter the opportunity to repent of his betrayal and reaffirm his love for and devotion to Jesus. Jesus question as a call for repentance and redemption also refutes the idea that Jesus required affirmation from Peter, as though Jesus did not know Peter loved him or that Jesus was unsure of Peter's loyalty. Dovetailing with the above two explanations is one more concerned with Peter's prominent role in the first century church. Even though all of Jesus' disciples abandoned him with the exception of John, Peter's denial stands out as particularly grievous. Peter had boldly proclaimed that he would not betrayed Jesus even if others did, making his denials stand out . How, then, could Peter become arguably the most influential of the Twelve? How could he, who did not just run but verbally and empathically denied Jesus, become a faithful leader? John's inclusion of the series of questions and answers between Jesus and Peter more than justifies the position that Peter would hold. Though it is possible that Jesus was asking whether Peter loved him more than Peter loved the other disciples or his fishing profession it probably means that Jesus was asking if Peter loved him more than the other disciples did. More than a comparison between the states of their hearts-clearly a task Peter was not qualified to answer- the question was about the depth of Peter's own love. Did Peter's experience deepen his love for Christ or shatter it? If Peter loved Christ more than the others did, would Peter be prepared to do as Jesus would command? We might ask ourselves the same question following sinful failures. Though the word repentance is not used here, Peter's response clearly illustrates it. His response was an important step in repairing his relationship with Jesus. Note that Jesus approached Peter; similarly, Jesus approached us before we even knew him. Romans 5:8. Peter may have felt himself on unsteady footing with Jesus. Jesus question allowed Peter to affirm for himself and his companions the depth of his love and loyalty, despite his prior stumble. Jesus' question to us – whether he will be Lord of our lives, whether we love him-is also an opportunity to repent of whatever sins have prevented us from having the relationship we need with him. Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” Jesus had identified himself as the good shepherd. In that discourse Jesus contrasted himself with Israel's current spiritual shepherds, who acted more like thieves than caregivers. Jesus' self-disclosure as Israel's shepherd was a claim of rightful leadership in ancient terms and even a fulfillment of God's promises. For example, in Ezekiel 34 God rebuked Israels shepherds; the nation's political religious leadership. As with corrupt leadership the world over, past and present, these authorities were more concerned with their own welfare and even luxury that with the lives of the people they were tasked with serving. God promised to remove those shepherds and take up the job himself. He would seek and find the lost sheep; he would feed them and heal them. Ezekiel 34: 1-16. In Jesus, God has fulfilled his promise. Jesus is the loving shepherd who feeds and protect his flock. He demonstrated this by healing the sick and feeding the multitudes. Jesus taught God's love for the lost sheep and indicated his role in seeking the lost. With Jesus' time on earth rapidly coming to a close, the task of shepherding his flock was still his. But Jesus would ensure that his disciples were empowered to care for the fledgling church- and his work continues today. Jesus has promised he will appear again, but we don't know when this happen. In the meantime, do we wall ourselves off from society and proverbially sit at the window waiting? No. We too have task to fulfill. We are not all called to be apostles or preachers or teachers. But we are all called to good works in Christ and whatever other work we do-as parents and grandparents, as employees or bosses, as citizens in our communities- we do as working for the Lord. Until Jesus returns, we too can make the most time and feed Jesus' sheep. Jesus proceeds to tell Peter about Peter's suffering and death. In light of what lay ahead for Peter, faithfulness to Jesus required a love so great that it could overcome the instinct for self-preservation. Peter loved Jesus he would show this through his own ministry and death. Stretch out your hands is and allusion to carrying one's cross to one's execution. Someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go finishes the contrast. Peter's life would not be his own. In this way, his life parallel that of Jesus.
Conclusion
Peter stands out as a model disciple for a numerous of reasons. First, Peter was not unique in his need for redemption. All of us stand before Jesus needing redemption, being incapable of accomplishing it for ourselves. Just as Jesus did for Peter, so also Jesus does for us. He made the first move toward our redemption long ago on the cross and continues to invites us to accept his sacrifice as the atonement for our own sins. God's grace is magnified by the fact that Jesus himself, the offended party, initiated the process. This is consistent with the biblical story in which God, who is always the offended party, initiates reconciliation with sinful humanity. Second, Peter redemption resulted in commission. Like Peter, we confess our love for our Lord and Savior. Doing so must result in our commitment to living lives that parallel Jesus' own; being more concerned about the will of our Father than with our own agendas. Though how we each live out Jesus' commission varies based on our circumstances, each of us is called to the life of faith. Third, our commission comes with knowledge of what our faithfulness can cost us. Like Peter, we accept the call with the clear understanding that because Christ suffered and we are his, we too expect the life of faith to entail suffering just as Peter's did. Sometimes this means physical suffering or even death at the hands of the world. Sometimes it means enduring shame and torment for righteousness' sake. Fourth, like Peter's pain, our own suffering comes with a promise. With our suffering it comes with a promise. When we suffer for Christ and for godly purposes, we bring glory to the Lord- no matter how humiliating the world might believe our plight to be. None of us today have had an encounter with Christ like Peter did. But when you tell the story of how God has redeemed you, what role do believers like Peter play? In whose redemption story do you (or should you) play a role? Prayer Heavenly Father, thank you for making our redemption story possible. Help us to embrace living lives that parallel Jesus' life and bring glory to you, even in suffering. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. If you would like to read a good book about Peter, Lois would recommend “Simon Peter, Flawed but Faithful Disciple” by Adam Hamilton. It discuss how most Christians identify with Peter because he did have his flaws like we all do. It had some many insights that you might not of thought of.
Questions
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the New Revised Standard Version.
Next week's lesson will be on Acts 1:1-11.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet in person, we share our joys and concerns with each other. If you have prayer requests to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, use this prayer (edited from a prayer found on the Sacred Space website) to get started.
Heavenly Father, we know that we have much, and we also know that everything we have of value is because of your love and your graciousness toward us.
Jesus, you meet us at the water’s edge of our ordinary lives. You accept us lovingly, you encourage us, you invite us to abundance. Nourished by the food of your word, warmed by the fire of your unfailing love, may we, in turn, nourish, heal and love those we meet today. For we ask it in Christ’s name. Amen.
Today's lesson is on John 21:1-14.
Introduction
The Gospel of John begins with a prologue that speaks not about Jesus’s lineage (as in Matthew and Luke) but about what God was doing through Christ from the perspective of eternity. It’s a wonderful passage chock full of meaning and grandeur about how Christ was the true light that came into the world to shine in the darkness. This same Gospel ends with what could be considered an epilogue, which is the 21st chapter. Chapter 20 ends with a statement of the purpose of the gospel, which would seem to be a fitting ending to the gospel. However, chapter 21, which includes our text for this morning, describes an intimate post resurrection story of a particular disciple’s redemption and forgiveness after Christ’s resurrection. Some scholars believe this chapter was added later by another author, but that is not necessarily the case. The lesson points out that no manuscripts exist that do not include this passage and that such epilogues were common in other ancient writings. In any case, these verses serve to show Christ’s continued power and presence after the resurrection and to talk about how Peter was forgiven and restored after his denial of Jesus during his trial.
The disciples fail (verses 1-3)
After Jesus appeared to Mary, to the disciples and then to Thomas (in chapter 20, not in our lesson), the disciples are back in Galilee, seemingly trying to figure out everything that had happened and what they should do now. Those present included Simon Peter, Nathanael (a disciples mentioned only in John), the sons of Zebedee (James and John mentioned in Matthew’s gospel but not named in John) and two other unnamed disciples. The disciples are staying near the Sea of Galilee. Suddenly Peter tells the others, “I’m going out to fish.” Some scholars take this as a decision that he is simply going to return to his former profession and put his discipleship behind him. That is not necessarily the case, though. It may simply be that, while they waited for Jesus in Galilee, they needed to feed themselves. Jesus had already appeared to them after his resurrection. With that in mind, although Peter might have been impatient and distraught over his own failure, it is hard to believe he was abandoning his discipleship so quickly. The other disciples went out with Peter to fish during the night. According to the lesson, fishermen typically worked at night on the Sea of Galilee. Fish would come up to feed at night and dive deeper as the sun warmed the surface. Therefore, nighttime was a more productive fishing time. Yet even though they fished all night, they caught nothing.
Jesus provides (verses 4-6)
As they were finishing for the night, the disciples saw a man standing on the shore. However, at this point they did not recognize it as Jesus. The gospel writers must be saying something about the disciples’ inability to recognize the resurrected Christ. Mary did not recognize him at the tomb. The disciples on the road to Emmaus did not recognize him, even though they walked with him for miles. There could be explanations for each of these events. Mary was not expecting to see Jesus standing before her, just as the disciples could not imagine it was Jesus walking with them. And just because it was early in the morning, that doesn’t mean the sun was completely risen, not to mention the fact that they may have been a distance from the shore. However, taken together, it seems strange that no one immediately recognized the man they had followed for years, after he was resurrected. Then Jesus calls out to them, asking them if they have caught any fish. Of course, they answer, “No.” So he instructs them to throw their net on the right side of the boat instead. He promises they will find some there. When they obeyed and did, in fact, catch a large number of fish, they realize this could be no one but Jesus.
‘It is the Lord’ (verses 7-14)
The disciple whom Jesus loved — which most scholars believe is John, the author of the book of John — shouts out, “It is the Lord!” As soon as John says the words, Peter puts on his outers garment, which he had removed in order to fish, and he jumps into the water and swims for shore. It is clear that Peter could not wait for the boat to reach shore. He had to get to Jesus in the fastest way possible. The other disciples stayed in the boat, weighed down with the miraculous catch, and slowly headed for shore. Peter, we assume, reached the shore first. On the shore they found Jesus beside a fire of burning coals, with fish on fire, and some bread. The burning coals harken back to the coals that were burning as Peter stood outside the judgment hall and warmed himself and denied he knew Jesus. Undoubtedly, Simon Peter still felt guilty about denying the Lord, and the smell of the coals would stir up those memories within him. In the last part of chapter 21 (not included in our lesson), Jesus has an intimate conversation with Peter and says to him, “Feed my sheep” and “Follow me,” setting him back on the path of discipleship. At this point, Jesus instructs them to bring some fish from their catch as well. So Simon Peter climbs back into the boat and drags the net ashore. We’re told that the net was full of large fish and that there were 153 in all. It seems unusual that the fishermen would have bothered to count each fish, and many have tried to find meaning in the number 153, but the only thing we know for certain is that there was a large number of big fish and that, despite that, the net did not break. This surely must mean that Jesus continues to provide for his disciples and that, when Jesus is involved, nothing will be lost. Next Jesus invites them to have breakfast with him. And the disciples know without asking that it is Jesus. Just as the travelers on the Emmaus Road recognized Jesus in the breaking of bread, so the disciples become certain of Christ’s presence as they share a meal with him. This meal signifies Jesus’s acceptance of those who had abandoned him. It signifies his presence, even when we cannot see him, and it signifies his sharing his life with those who follow him. Even though Jesus would no longer be with them in the flesh, the resurrected Christ sends the Spirit to empower his disciples for their mission. John records three times when Jesus appeared to the disciples after his resurrection. Those appearances gave his disciples the assurance that Jesus was still with them, that the grave did not hold him. And that gave them strength for the work that lay before them.
Conclusion
Jesus is not waiting for Sunday to spend time with his disciples today. While you’re at work — whatever that looks like for you — Jesus still invites you to experience his abundance and spend time with him. How can you ensure that you don’t miss these opportunities? Prayer Our Father, we marvel at the abundance of life we find in Jesus. And we thank you for sending him to us! We give thanks in Jesus’ name. Amen. Questions for discussion:
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the New International Version.
Next week's lesson continues from this week. It is on John 21:15-19.
He is Risen!
Happy Easter!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together, we share our joys and concerns together. If you have any prayer requests you would like to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Lord God, You loved this world so much, that you gave your one and only Son, that we might be called your children too. Lord, help us to live in the gladness and grace of Easter Sunday, every day. Let us have hearts of thankfulness for your sacrifice.
Let us have eyes that look upon your grace and rejoice in our salvation. Help us to walk in that mighty grace and tell your good news to the world. All for your glory do we pray, Lord, Amen.
Today's lesson is on Luke 24:13-27, 30-31.
Lesson Context
Today's lesson follows directly after the women found the empty tomb. Our book says that many Jews at the time believed in the bodily resurrection of the dead. This idea is rooted in certain Old Testament prophetic texts (example Daniel 12:1-3, 13). In the time between the Old and New Testaments, this doctrine was developed further. However, not all Jews believed in the resurrection (Acts 23:8). Jesus' followers, though skeptical of the empty tomb, would not have entirely dismissed the possibility.
The Journey Begins
Two of Jesus followers who had heard the women's report were walking to a village called Emmaus. Emmaus was close enough to Jerusalem that they would have made the walk in a day. Our book says we do not know the exact location of the village. This is the only mention of the place in the New Testament. The men were discussing what had happened. Our book says the word used suggests a strong debate. Jesus came up and walked with the men. However, they were kept from recognizing him. This could mean that either God obscured their vision in some way, or that Jesus' physical appearance was changed from before his burial.
The Travelers Lament
Jesus starts a conversation by asking what they are talking about. The men are surprised! How could this man not know about all the things that had just happened in Jerusalem? Ironically, that man was the only person who fully understood the events of that week. The two men explain that Jesus of Nazareth was crucified. They said he was a prophet, and that there was hope he would redeem Israel. As we have discussed before, the Jews were hoping for a political redemption, which would free them from oppressive foreign occupation. By speaking of the only who was going to redeem Israel, the travelers likely believed that Jesus was going to save their people from foreign oppression. To see Jesus put to death in a horrifying manner brought them disappointment. Further, this was the third day after Jesus died, when Jesus promised his disciples that he would be resurrected. If these two men had heard of that promise, they had left Jerusalem without experiencing the fulfillment of the promise. The men recounted that the women found the empty tomb that morning, and that at least Peter (and maybe also John) confirmed the empty tomb. But the men had not seen their resurrected Lord.
The Stranger Responds
Jesus calls the two men on the road foolish. This follows the tradition of Hebrew wisdom literature, like the book of Proverbs, which calls out the folly of fools. Jesus referred to all the things our Old Testament said regarding the Messiah. In Jesus' day, the scripture would have been traditionally seen in three categories:
As the travelers reached Emmaus, they invited the unknown stranger to stay with them as an act of hospitality. When they sat down to eat, Jesus acted as the host by giving thanks and breaking the bread. At this point, the men recognize Jesus. Then, Jesus vanishes. Our book says that his being recognized and yet vanishing from the men's sight indicates both a continuity and a discontinuity with his physical body after the resurrection. The men then returned to Jerusalem and told the other disciples of their experience with the resurrected Christ.
Conclusion
The travelers in today's scripture had an experience that brought about a personal revolution. Their saddened outlook was transformed when they shared a meal with the resurrected Lord. This revolution brought the two travelers joy, enthusiasm and peace. It also meant reordered priorities; they received a correction and were reminded of how scripture pointed to Christ's resurrection and the resulting revolution. Are you attentive to the ways the resurrection can change your expectations -- and your life? Prayer Heavenly Father, Jesus' resurrection has changed the world. Show us how we might better teach your Word for other people to believe in you. In the name of the resurrected Jesus. Amen.
Questions for Discussion
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the New Revised Standard Version.
Next week's lesson will be on John 21:1-14.
Good morning!
Happy Palm Sunday! We're so glad you are joining us today!
When we meet together, we share our joys and concerns. Consider the past week, and any prayer requests you may have. If you would like, you can share them in the comments. When you are ready, get started with the prayer below (source).
Father, Palm Sunday is a reminder of the unexpected, yet fully anticipated, King of Kings. Jesus did not look like the Messiah Your people hoped for. The way He entered the Holy City of Jerusalem on that day, riding a young donkey as a significant sign of peace and fulfillment of prophecy, did not align with their expectations of a military conqueror. Much of our daily lives don’t align with our expectations, Father. So much of our lives don’t make sense. This Palm Sunday, let us embrace the unexpected entrance of our Savior, Jesus. He is Peace. Let us apply this incredible truth to our lives. Peace mattered to Jesus. He came to bring us Peace. He is peace. Father, how quickly we forget the Peace we possess in Christ! Remind us, minute by minute, as we navigate difficult days and trying times. Father, we need Peace to live life to the full, as Jesus died for us to live. Amen.
Today's lesson is on Luke 24:1-12.
Benediction
This week's benediction is from the New Living Translation.
Next week's lesson is on Luke 24:13-27, 30-31.
Good morning!
We're so glad you decided to join us today!
When we meet together on Sunday morning, we take some time to share our joys and concerns. If you have any prayer requests you would like to share, you can add them to the comments on this post. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started.
Lord, thank you that our comfort abounds through Christ. Nothing in the world can bring us the comfort and peace that you alone can offer. Thank you that you understand our trials, and you care. Through our own struggle and pain, help us to be your vessels to offer comfort and strength to others who are hurting. Thank you Lord that through every weakness and hard place, your strength is displayed in our lives. We can’t do it on our own. But you can, through us. Your power is Mighty within us, you are our Helper and our Strength. All things are possible through you. Amen.
This week's lesson is on Mark 5:1-13, 18-20.
Jesus and his disciples crossed the Sea of Galilee to a region of 10 cities called Decapolis. When they left the boat they encountered a man coming from the tombs. These tombs were where they buried their dead. Any Jew would consider this man unclean because of his living among the caves with dead bodies. Jesus never mentioned that. Jesus' greater concern was wholeness in the Lord, rather than with outer, ritual uncleanness.
Once the man lost control of himself, his community tried to step in. Though binding him with a chain may once have worked, the demon within granted such perverse strength that the demoniac tore those restraints apart. His strength was matched by a wildness that no one could subdue. The image is of a dangerous, undomesticated beast. The best course of action for the community was to be wary and hope the demon-possessed man would not come among them and cause harm. A healthy person generally makes decisions that maintain his or her overall well being. In the demoniac's case, he had lost so much control that even his instinct to care for himself was overridden. No one could prevent him from hurting himself or others. When the demon-possessed man saw Jesus from a distance he shouted, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?” The demon must have been doing the talking. No human had yet acknowledged Jesus to be the Son of God, another clue that the demon knew what the others did not. The title Most High God emphasizes God's absolute rule over the heavens and of the earth and under the earth, including every creature within those realms- supernatural or not. When Jesus asked the demon his name, the demon said Legion for we are many. Ancient people often believed that invoking the name of a spiritual being granted some power over that being. But Jesus needed no tips or tricks to obtain power over the demons. Instead, Jesus was preparing to teach the disciples a lesson of the utmost importance: no matter how the powers of evil stacked against him, Jesus was always in charge. The demon begged Jesus again and again not to send them out of the area. Jesus could send the demons to the abyss. Instead the demons wanted Jesus to send them among the pigs. The pigs must have been owned by a gentile population. They recognized that Jesus was in complete control but perhaps Legion hoped to linger in the unclean pigs; then when Jesus had left the region, they could reenter the man or find a new victim. With Jesus' permission Legion might have thought they had succeeded in outwitting the Son of God. The impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the lake and were drowned. What the impure spirits experience here was a foretaste of the defeat that Satan would experience following Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. Though Satan looked for victory over Jesus, what the devil experienced was unexpected. In theory, the numbers involved should have put Jesus at a disadvantage. However, even though Jesus seemed outnumbered, there was never any doubt about his victory in this encounter. The herdsman did not see this extraordinary sign of God's goodness and victory over evil. Instead, they felt fear. This explains why the community asked Jesus to leave there after this encounter. The man who had been demon-possessed begged to follow Jesus. Jesus did not let him but told to go home to your people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and how he has had mercy on You. So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed. The Sunday School books state this was a different outcome than when Mary Magdalene was delivered from seven demons. She became one of Jesus' most dedicated followers. Luke 8:2. Throughout Mark's Gospel, Jesus frequently told people to stay quiet about what he did for them. Given that we know Jesus ultimately wanted the gospel to spread throughout the world, why would he tell people he'd healed to stay quiet? Maintaining what has been called the messianic secret seems to have been Jesus practice in Jewish regions, particularly earlier in his ministry. But in the Gentile region, Jews had the Old Testament, and especially the prophets, to point to Jesus, the secrecy could have been a temporary measure to allow Jesus' ministry to grow in its own time. Some people believe it was because Jesus wanted his ministry to be about his preaching rather than a healing and miracles ministry. It could also be that telling of all Jesus' miracles would have increased his popularity but also increased his opposition to stop his ministry. But because Gentiles did not have the Scriptures to refer to or learn from, eyewitness accounts of the Jewish teacher and healer would prepare the soil for faith to come. Though not exactly the same because the Samaritans did follow Mosaic law, the story of the Samaritan woman's witness illustrates the potential power of firsthand accounts.
Conclusion
We too have been delivered by Jesus. And like the former demoniac, we have stepped out of a life that was more like death. We too are called to share the story of a life that was more like death. We too are called to share the story that Jesus has done for us, to prepare our own communities to meet Christ and come to new life. No matter the legions aligned against us. Jesus is in control! All we have to do is place our faith in him, with joy and obedience. Prayer Heavenly Father, May we remember your Son's mighty power and be quick to ask for deliverance. May we as your servants show our gratitude by proclaiming to others the good things you have done for us. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen I asked Lisa about her thoughts on the lesson and about demonic possession. Her thoughts were that when Jesus was walking the earth that it was a special time of angelic activity. We had never heard of a choir of angels singing like what the shepherds experienced at Jesus's birth or the angels who took care of Jesus after his temptation in the desert. It would only stand to reason that there would be increased demonic activities. What does Mark want us to know from this scripture? That Jesus has the power over the whole spirit world. He uses his power to further his kingdom.
Questions
Benediction
Today's benediction is from the King James Version.
Next week's lesson is on Luke 24:1-12.
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