The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers with Commentaries for Sunday, October 8, 2023—Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

 

The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers

with Commentaires
Sunday, October 8, 2023
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

The Quest for Authentic Righteousness:
Law, Nature, and Grace in Relationship with God

Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20; Psalm 19;

Philippians 3:4b-14; Matthew 21:33-46
[Ordinary 26, Proper 21]
(Revised Common Lectionary Year A)
  (Semi-continuous Reading Plan)

Introduction

The Biblical passages from Exodus, Psalm, Philippians, and Matthew present a multifaceted exploration of the nature of righteousness, the role of laws and rules, and the deeper meaning of our relationship with God. Each text approaches these subjects from a unique angle, offering insights that are both individual and complementary.

In Exodus 20, we are confronted with the Ten Commandments, laws given directly by God to the Israelites. These laws serve as a foundational code of ethics and worship, highlighting the essential actions and attitudes that characterize a godly life. Psalm 19 adds another layer to this understanding by celebrating both the Law and the natural world as means through which God's glory and moral order are revealed.

However, Philippians 3 challenges us to consider the limitations of relying solely on legalistic righteousness. Paul shares his own impeccable credentials under the law but counts them as "loss" compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. For Paul, righteousness is not a matter of following a set of rules but involves a deep, transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, rooted in faith.

The parable of the tenants in Matthew 21 further extends this dialogue by critiquing a self-righteousness that seeks to usurp God’s place. The religious leaders to whom Jesus directs this parable have not only misunderstood the Law but have also rejected the prophets and even the Son, failing to produce the "fruit" that God desires.

Together, these texts invite us on a quest for authentic righteousness—a righteousness that goes beyond mere rule-keeping to touch the very core of our being. They call us to a life that is in harmony with God's law, attuned to His creation, transformed by a relationship with Christ, and fruitful in love and justice.

Father of Mercies

Opening Prayer
(Psalm 19, Philippians 3)

Holy Spirit, heavenly God, shine upon us with the wisdom of ancient words. Enlighten our minds, that we may perceive your presence. Strengthen our resolve, that we may press toward growth in love and faith. Help us grow closer to your likeness each and every day. Amen.

Call to Confession
(Psalm 19, Philippians 3, Matthew 21)

God of grace and God of glory, bless us with your mercy and your steadfast love. When we pursue pointless gains and embark on dead-end journeys, guide us back to your ways. When we strive for our own righteousness, remind us that your righteousness is all we need. When we reject your teaching, or, even worse, reject your presence, love us and correct our ways. Forgive us and welcome us home into the arms of your grace and love. Amen.

Assurance of Pardon
(Exodus 20, Philippians 3)

Do not be afraid, God’s love is strong enough to overcome our weaknesses.

Introduction to the Word
(Psalm 19, Philippians 3)

May the words of our mouths be acceptable to God and be blessings to the world. May the meditations of our hearts, and the reflections of our minds, bring us closer to God and to God’s love. May the beauty of God’s creation bring us closer to God’s teachings and to a knowledge of how to love God’s world.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading

Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20
The commandments at Sinai

The passage from Exodus 20 contains some of the most famous and foundational ethical and religious teachings in the Judeo-Christian tradition: the Ten Commandments. Delivered directly by God to the Israelites at Mount Sinai, these laws serve as the cornerstone of Israel's covenant with God and provide a moral and spiritual framework that has been influential for millennia. This specific selection from Exodus 20 focuses on commandments concerning the worship of God and interpersonal relationships, laying out the essential elements for a godly life and a just society.

20 And God spoke all these words:

2 “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

3 “You shall have no other gods before me.

4 “You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.

7 “You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.

8 “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work,

12 “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

13 “You shall not murder.

14 “You shall not commit adultery.

15 “You shall not steal.

16 “You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.

17 “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

18 When the people saw the thunder and lightning and heard the trumpet and saw the mountain in smoke, they trembled with fear. They stayed at a distance 19 and said to Moses, “Speak to us yourself and we will listen. But do not have God speak to us or we will die.”

20 Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. God has come to test you, so that the fear of God will be with you to keep you from sinning.”

Commentary

Verses 1-2: Context of Deliverance
God identifies Himself as the one who delivered Israel from slavery in Egypt. This serves as the context for the commandments that follow. God's moral laws are not arbitrary; they are grounded in His saving actions.

Verses 3-4: Monotheism and Idolatry
The first commandments focus on the exclusivity and uniqueness of God. Israel is commanded not to have other gods and not to make graven images. These laws were revolutionary in a polytheistic world and set Israel apart as a community centered on the worship of one God.

Verse 7: Reverence for God’s Name
Misusing God's name involves more than mere speech; it suggests a lack of reverence and awe for God. This commandment calls for a lifestyle that honors God in thought, word, and deed.

Verses 8-9: The Sabbath
The Sabbath is not merely a day off but a day set apart for holiness and rest, mirroring God's own rest on the seventh day of creation. Observing the Sabbath signifies trust in God's provision and a rhythm of work and rest that is essential for human well-being.

Verses 12-17: Social Ethics
These commandments form the basis of social ethics in the Israelite community. They touch on family dynamics, respect for life, sexual fidelity, honesty, and contentment. Notably, honoring one's parents is the first commandment that comes with a promise—long life in the promised land.

Verses 18-20: The Fear of God
The people's fear at the theophany is a natural response to God's overwhelming majesty. Moses reassures them, interpreting their fear as a divine test aimed at instilling a healthy fear of God, which should deter them from sinning.

Conclusion
The commandments in Exodus 20 offer more than just a list of do's and don'ts; they sketch a holistic vision of a community living in right relationship with God and one another. While the commandments are specific to the Israelite covenant, their principles continue to serve as ethical and spiritual guidelines for believers today.

A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions

Psalm 19
The law rejoices the heart

Psalm 19 is a profound hymn of praise that serves as a theological bridge between God's revelation in the natural world and His revelation in the Word. Written by King David, this Psalm opens with an awe-inspiring look at how the heavens and the skies testify to the glory and craftsmanship of God. Without saying a word, creation itself sings an eternal hymn of God's majesty. The Psalm then pivots to celebrate the Law, described as perfect, sure, and righteous—qualities that rejuvenate the soul, enlighten the eyes, and endure forever. David acknowledges that it's through God's Law that individuals are warned and rewarded, and he ends the Psalm with a prayer for purity and acceptability in God's sight.

This Psalm prompts us to consider two important facets of divine revelation: general revelation available to everyone through nature, and special revelation given to us through God's Word. Both forms guide us to a deeper understanding of the Creator and provide us a way to live a life pleasing to Him.

1 The heavens declare the glory of God, *
    and the firmament shows his handiwork.

2 One day tells its tale to another, *
    and one night imparts knowledge to another.

3 Although they have no words or language, *
    and their voices are not heard,

4 Their sound has gone out into all lands, *
    and their message to the ends of the world.

5 In the deep has he set a pavilion for the sun; *
    it comes forth like a bridegroom out of his chamber;
      it rejoices like a champion to run its course.

6 It goes forth from the uttermost edge of the heavens
      and runs about to the end of it again; *
    nothing is hidden from its burning heat.

7 The law of the LORD is perfect
      and revives the soul; *
    the testimony of the LORD is sure
      and gives wisdom to the innocent.

8 The statutes of the LORD are just
      and rejoice the heart; *
    the commandment of the LORD is clear
      and gives light to the eyes.

9 The fear of the LORD is clean
      and endures for ever; *
    the judgments of the LORD are true
      and righteous altogether.

10 More to be desired are they than gold,
      more than much fine gold, *
    sweeter far than honey,
      than honey in the comb.

11 By them also is your servant enlightened, *
    and in keeping them there is great reward.

12 Who can tell how often he offends? *
    cleanse me from my secret faults.

13 Above all, keep your servant from presumptuous sins;
      let them not get dominion over me; *
    then shall I be whole and sound,
      and innocent of a great offense.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my
      heart be acceptable in your sight, *
    O LORD, my strength and my redeemer.

Heavenly Father, Creator of the Universe, Your glory is declared in the heavens, and the skies proclaim the work of Your hands. Each day and each night, they speak without words, yet their voice goes out to the ends of the earth. We stand in awe of Your magnificent creation, a reflection of Your infinite wisdom, power, and beauty.

Lord, Your law is perfect, reviving the soul. Your statutes stand firm, bringing joy to the heart and enlightenment to the eyes. Your commands are more precious than gold, sweeter than honey. They guide us, warn us, and offer great reward to those who heed them. Help us, O God, to honor Your law, to meditate on Your precepts, and to find our delight in Your commands.

Forgive us for the times we have failed to follow Your Word, for the hidden faults that escape our notice and the willful sins that we knowingly commit. Cleanse us, Lord, from our shortcomings and set up a guard over our mouths and hearts so that we may not sin against You.

O God, may the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be pleasing to You, our Rock and our Redeemer. May our lives be a testament to Your enduring love and faithfulness, just as the heavens declare Your glory each day.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and the true Word, who was with You in the beginning and who makes known to us Your will and Your love. Amen.

Second Reading
From the Epistles

Philippians 3:4b-14
Nothing surpasses knowing Christ

Philippians 3:4b-14 offers a strikingly personal look into the life and thoughts of the Apostle Paul. Written from prison and addressed to the Christian community in Philippi, this passage reveals the radical shift that took place in Paul’s understanding of righteousness, value, and the purpose of life after his encounter with Christ. What once was gain for him—his credentials and achievements under the Law—becomes "loss" in comparison to the surpassing value of knowing Christ. Paul's focus shifts from self-achieved righteousness to a righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus, and his life goal is reoriented to pursuing this relationship with Christ.

4b If someone else thinks they have reasons to put confidence in the flesh, I have more: 5 circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; in regard to the law, a Pharisee; 6 as for zeal, persecuting the church; as for righteousness based on the law, faultless.

7 But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith. 10 I want to know Christ—yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11 and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Commentary

Verses 4b-6: Paul’s Credentials
Paul begins by laying out his religious credentials. Circumcised according to Jewish tradition, a member of the esteemed tribe of Benjamin, a devout Pharisee, and zealous even to the point of persecuting the early Christian church—by all traditional measures, he was a Jewish elite.

Verses 7-8: The Great Reversal
Paul contrasts his past with his present, declaring that his former gains are now considered losses when set against the "surpassing worth" of knowing Christ. The word for "garbage" can also mean "dung" or "refuse," demonstrating how radically his values have changed.

Verse 9: Righteousness Through Faith
Paul emphasizes the shift from a "righteousness of my own" to a righteousness that comes "through faith in Christ." This righteousness is not earned but given by God to those who believe in Christ.

Verses 10-11: Knowing Christ Fully
Paul's desire is not just intellectual knowledge of Christ but experiential knowledge, including the “power of his resurrection” and the “participation in his sufferings.” It's a holistic pursuit that even involves "becoming like him in his death," emphasizing the sacrificial aspect of Christian discipleship.

Verses 12-14: The Ongoing Journey
Paul clarifies that he hasn't "arrived" at full knowledge or righteousness but is in a dynamic process of pursuing these in Christ. The athletic language of "pressing on" and "straining toward" illustrates the active, strenuous nature of spiritual growth and discipleship. His goal is the "prize" of eternal life and complete unity with Christ, for which he continually reaches "heavenward."

Conclusion
Paul’s reflections in Philippians 3:4b-14 resonate deeply with the existential concerns of every believer. What truly matters in life? What should we strive for? Paul’s answer is unequivocal: a life of deep, intimate relationship with Christ that transforms our understanding of value, righteousness, and ultimate purpose.

Today’s Gospel Reading

Matthew 21:33-46
The parable of the vineyard owner’s son

The parable of the tenants in Matthew 21:33-46 comes at a pivotal point in the Gospel narrative. Jesus is in Jerusalem, nearing the end of his earthly ministry and in increasing conflict with the religious leaders of his day. In this parable, Jesus delivers a strong critique against the religious establishment, encapsulating themes of stewardship, rejection of prophets, and the coming judgment. His listeners—chief priests and elders—quickly realize that this parable is targeted at them, pointing out their failure to recognize and honor God’s sent messengers, including Jesus himself.

33 “Listen to another parable: There was a landowner who planted a vineyard. He put a wall around it, dug a winepress in it and built a watchtower. Then he rented the vineyard to some farmers and moved to another place. 34 When the harvest time approached, he sent his servants to the tenants to collect his fruit.

35 “The tenants seized his servants; they beat one, killed another, and stoned a third. 36 Then he sent other servants to them, more than the first time, and the tenants treated them the same way. 37 Last of all, he sent his son to them. ‘They will respect my son,’ he said.

38 “But when the tenants saw the son, they said to each other, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him and take his inheritance.’ 39 So they took him and threw him out of the vineyard and killed him.

40 “Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?”

41 “He will bring those wretches to a wretched end,” they replied, “and he will rent the vineyard to other tenants, who will give him his share of the crop at harvest time.”

42 Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures:

“‘The stone the builders rejected
    has become the cornerstone;
the Lord has done this,
    and it is marvelous in our eyes’?

43 “Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit. 44 Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.”

45 When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard Jesus’ parables, they knew he was talking about them. 46 They looked for a way to arrest him, but they were afraid of the crowd because the people held that he was a prophet.

Commentary

Verses 33-34: Setting the Stage
The landowner in the parable represents God, who has prepared a vineyard (Israel) and entrusted it to tenants (the religious leaders). The vineyard is well-equipped for success, indicating God's generous provision and expectations for stewardship.

Verses 35-36: Rejection of the Prophets
When the landowner sends servants (prophets) to collect the fruit, the tenants abuse and kill them. This reflects Israel’s historical mistreatment of prophets sent by God.

Verse 37-39: Rejection of the Son
The landowner finally sends his son, symbolic of Jesus, expecting that he will be respected. However, the tenants kill him too, anticipating they can then seize his inheritance. This foreshadows Jesus’ impending crucifixion and highlights the malicious intent of the religious leaders.

Verses 40-41: Judgment Declared
Jesus invites his listeners to pronounce judgment on the tenants, and they do so vehemently. Unbeknownst to them, they are pronouncing judgment upon themselves.

Verses 42-44: The Stone and the Cornerstone
Jesus then quotes Psalm 118, interpreting the rejected stone as the Messiah, himself, who will become the cornerstone of a new spiritual edifice. This cornerstone is both a foundation for those who believe and a stumbling block that will "crush" those who reject it.

Verses 45-46: Realization and Reaction
The chief priests and Pharisees realize that the parable is aimed at them. Instead of repenting, they look for a way to arrest Jesus but are deterred by public opinion.

Conclusion
This parable serves as a poignant critique of religious leadership that becomes so enamored with its own power and privilege that it fails to recognize God's voice and authority, even when it comes in the form of His own son. More broadly, it serves as a warning to any who would attempt to hoard God's blessings and reject His messengers, missing out on the true "fruit" that God desires.

Here end the Readings

Click HERE to read today’s Holy Gospel Lesson message

The Nicene Creed

The Nicene Creed

• We believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

• And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, begotten from the Father before all ages, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made; of the same essence as the Father. Through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven; he became incarnate by the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary, and was made human. He was crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; he suffered and was buried. The third day he rose again, according to the Scriptures. He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end.

• And we believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life. He proceeds from the Father and the Son, and with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified. He spoke through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic church. We affirm one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look forward to the resurrection of the dead, and to life in the world to come. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

The Lord's Prayer - Our Father Who Art in Heaven

Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:

For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.

Holy Communion

Holy Communion
A nondenominational serving of bread and wine

Though no video can truly replace the experience of celebrating together in our places of worship, we know that where two or more are gathered, the Lord is present. This table is open to all who recognize Jesus Christ as healer and redeemer. This table is open to all who work to bring God’s Kingdom here on earth. No one is turned away because of life circumstances. No one is barred from this table. No one seeking God’s abundant grace and mercy is turned aside. We see before us the abundance that a life of faith offers as we respond to God’s everlasting mercy in prayer and deed.

Communion Prayer
(Philippians 2)

Pour out your Holy Spirit on us and on these gifts of bread and wine. Make them be for us the life and love of Christ, that we may be the body of Christ for the world, redeemed and unified by Christ’s love and grace. By your Spirit, make us one with Christ, one with one another, and one in ministry to all the world, until Christ comes in final victory and we feast at your heavenly banquet. Through Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit in your holy church, all honor and glory is yours, almighty God, now and forevermore. Amen.

Benediction
(Psalm 19, Philippians 3, Matthew 5)

Beloved in Christ, may the God whose glory fills the heavens and whose law revives the soul bless you and keep you. Just as the skies declare His majesty, may your lives reflect the beauty of His holiness and the wisdom of His Word.

As you press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called you heavenward in Christ Jesus, may you consider all else as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Him. May you gain Christ and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of your own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ.

And as you are the salt of the earth and the light of the world, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. May you embody the teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, being peacemakers, pure in heart, and hungry for righteousness.

So go now in peace, with the assurance that the Lord, your Rock and your Redeemer, goes before you, stands beside you, and lives within you, both now and forevermore.

In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Made New

Optional parts of the readings are set off in [square brackets].

The Bible texts of the Old Testament, Epistle, and Gospel lessons are from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Responsive Readings from the Common Book of Prayer (1789). Commentaries by Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM.

The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year A. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2023, we will be in Year B. The year which ended at Advent 2022 was Year A. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader for the Sunday ahead; Monday through Wednesday readings help the reader reflect and digest on what they heard in worship. Revised Common Lectionary Daily Readings, copyright © 2005 Consultation on Common Texts. www.commontexts.org
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, October 8, 2023
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
The Quest for Authentic Righteousness:
Law, Nature, and Grace in Relationship with God
Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20; Psalm 19; Philippians 3:4b-14; Matthew 21:33-46
In our readings today, the Biblical passages from Exodus, Psalm, Philippians, and Matthew present a multifaceted exploration of the nature of righteousness, the role of laws and rules, and the deeper meaning of our relationship with God. Each text approaches these subjects from a unique angle, offering insights that are both individual and complementary. Together, these texts invite us on a quest for authentic righteousness—a righteousness that goes beyond mere rule-keeping to touch the very core of our being. They call us to a life that is in harmony with God's law, attuned to His creation, transformed by a relationship with Christ, and fruitful in love and justice.