The Sunday Lectionary
with Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Sunday, March 31, 2024: Easter Day
A Tapestry of Easter Hope
Acts 10:34-43; Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24;
with Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Sunday, March 31, 2024: Easter Day
A Tapestry of Easter Hope
Acts 10:34-43; Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24;
1 Corinthians 15:1-11; John 20:1-18
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Three Days—Easter)
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Three Days—Easter)
Easter
Easter, a time of renewal and joy, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Christian calendar, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion, as described in the New Testament. Observed on the first Sunday following the full moon after the vernal equinox, Easter symbolizes hope, rebirth, and the triumph of life over death. This festivity, blending religious reverence with cultural traditions, is marked by various customs worldwide, such as attending church services, participating in processions, and engaging in family-oriented activities like Easter egg hunts and the sharing of special meals. Easter eggs, representing new life and resurrection, have become an enduring symbol of this joyful season, embodying the essence of renewal and the perpetual cycle of life and hope.
Introduction
In the harmonious blend of scripture readings from Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, and John 20:1-18, the theme of Easter Day vividly comes to life, weaving a rich tapestry of hope and fulfillment. These passages collectively narrate the cornerstone event of Christian faith - the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Acts 10:34-43 emphasizes the universal nature of God's love, a love that transcends all boundaries, while Psalm 118 celebrates God's enduring mercy and the joy of salvation. In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul eloquently reaffirms the foundational truth of the resurrection, anchoring the faith of believers, and John 20:1-18 intimately portrays the transformative encounter with the risen Christ. Together, these scriptures offer a profound reflection on the resurrection's power, inviting us to embrace the promise of new life and the triumph of light over darkness.
Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
From the Acts of the Apostles
Acts 10:34-43
God Raised Jesus on the Third Day
First Reading
From the Acts of the Apostles
Acts 10:34-43
God Raised Jesus on the Third Day
In Acts 10:34-43, the narrative unfolds with Peter, one of the key figures in early Christianity, addressing a Gentile audience, a pivotal moment that signifies the expansion of the Christian message beyond the Jewish community. This passage captures Peter's profound realization that God does not show favoritism but accepts those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right. He recounts the ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, emphasizing that these events were witnessed by chosen individuals, specifically chosen by God. Peter asserts that he and others are commissioned to preach and testify that Jesus is ordained by God to be the judge of the living and the dead. This section is significant as it underscores the universal scope of Jesus' message and the inclusivity of the Christian faith, marking a fundamental shift in the early Christian understanding of God's plan of salvation.10 34 Then Peter began to speak to them: “I truly understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. 36 You know the message he sent to the people of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ—he is Lord of all. 37 That message spread throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John announced: 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39 We are witnesses to all that he did both in Judea and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; 40 but God raised him on the third day and allowed him to appear, 41 not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, and who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one ordained by God as judge of the living and the dead. 43 All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
Expository Commentary
Verses 34-35: Peter opens his discourse with a revolutionary statement, breaking down the longstanding Jewish belief in their exclusive covenant with God. He recognizes that God's love and salvation are not limited to any single group but are available to all who fear (revere) God and practice righteousness, irrespective of their nationality or ethnic background.
Verse 36: Peter refers to the message of Jesus Christ, which was initially sent to the people of Israel. He emphasizes that Jesus preached peace and that His lordship extends beyond Israel to all people, affirming the universality of Jesus' message.
Verses 37-38: Peter gives a brief summary of Jesus' ministry, starting from His baptism by John the Baptist. He highlights Jesus' anointing by the Holy Spirit, His benevolent deeds, and His healing powers, asserting that these were clear indications of God's presence with Him.
Verses 39-41: Peter asserts his and other disciples' roles as eyewitnesses to Jesus' works and His crucifixion. The mention of Jesus’ resurrection and His selective post-resurrection appearances to chosen witnesses (including Peter) underscores the apostolic authority to testify about Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.
Verse 42: Peter underscores the divine command given to the apostles to preach and bear witness to Jesus. He also refers to Jesus as the one appointed by God to judge everyone, stressing Jesus' divine authority and role in the final judgment.
Verse 43: This verse ties the message of Jesus to the testimony of the prophets of the Old Testament, suggesting a continuity in God’s plan. It emphasizes the central Christian tenet that belief in Jesus Christ leads to the forgiveness of sins, highlighting the salvific power of Jesus’ name for all believers, regardless of their ethnic or cultural background.
This passage from Acts 10 is pivotal in the New Testament, as it marks a significant shift in the early Christian understanding of the scope of God's salvation and the inclusivity of the Christian message. It underscores the transition from a primarily Jewish Christian movement to a universally accessible faith.
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 is a vibrant and heartening passage that exemplifies the enduring faithfulness and love of God. It commences with a call to thanksgiving, inviting all to recognize the steadfast love of the Lord. The psalmist recounts personal experiences of salvation and deliverance, portraying God as both protector and strength. This section of the psalm climaxes in a celebration of God's deliverance, culminating in the acknowledgment of the day that the Lord has made. It is a passage that resonates with joy and triumph, encouraging believers to find refuge and strength in God's enduring love and salvation. This psalm is often associated with the season of Easter, reflecting themes of resurrection and new beginnings, making it a powerful and uplifting portion of the biblical text.1 O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;
his steadfast love endures forever!
2 Let Israel say,
“His steadfast love endures forever.”
14 The LORD is my strength and my might;
he has become my salvation.
15 There are glad songs of victory in the tents of the righteous:
“The right hand of the LORD does valiantly;
16 the right hand of the LORD is exalted;
the right hand of the LORD does valiantly.”
17 I shall not die, but I shall live,
and recount the deeds of the LORD.
18 The LORD has punished me severely,
but he did not give me over to death.
19 Open to me the gates of righteousness,
that I may enter through them
and give thanks to the LORD.
20 This is the gate of the LORD;
the righteous shall enter through it.
21 I thank you that you have answered me
and have become my salvation.
22 The stone that the builders rejected
has become the chief cornerstone.
23 This is the LORD’s doing;
it is marvelous in our eyes.
24 This is the day that the LORD has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Expository Commentary
Verse 1: This verse sets the tone for the entire psalm, emphasizing gratitude towards God. The acknowledgement of God's goodness and the eternal nature of His steadfast love are central themes in Hebrew worship and theology.
Verse 2: The psalmist calls upon Israel, symbolizing the community of believers, to collectively affirm God’s enduring love. This repetition underscores the importance of communal acknowledgement and praise.
Verse 14: Here, personal testimony becomes central. The psalmist speaks of God as a source of strength and salvation. This reflects a deep, personal relationship with God, where He is not just a distant deity but an integral part of the psalmist’s life.
Verse 15: This verse reflects a victory celebration, perhaps after a battle or a deliverance from peril. The "tents of the righteous" suggests a community living in God's favor, and the "right hand of the Lord" symbolizes power and authority.
Verse 16: The repetition for emphasis is typical in Hebrew poetry. It underscores God's power and victorious action, suggesting that God's intervention is both mighty and worthy of praise.
Verse 17: This verse may reflect a deliverance from a near-death experience. It expresses a commitment to live for the purpose of proclaiming God's works, indicating the psalmist’s sense of calling and purpose.
Verse 18: Here, the psalmist acknowledges God's discipline, yet also God’s mercy. It suggests a belief in corrective, not punitive, action from God.
Verse 19: The "gates of righteousness" symbolize the entrance to God's presence or the path to living a righteous life. The psalmist seeks access to a life aligned with God’s ways.
Verse 20: This verse reiterates that righteousness is a prerequisite for entering into God's presence, emphasizing the importance of living in accordance with God's will.
Verse 21: The psalmist expresses gratitude for answered prayers and recognizes God as the source of salvation, further highlighting God's personal involvement in the believer's life.
Verse 22: This metaphorical verse speaks of something (or someone) initially dismissed as insignificant becoming foundational. In Christian tradition, this is often interpreted as prophetic of Jesus Christ.
Verse 23: Acknowledging God's hand in the unexpected elevation of the "rejected stone," this verse speaks to the wonder and awe of God’s work.
Verse 24: This verse is a call to rejoice in the present day, recognizing it as a gift from God. It’s a call to live in the moment, appreciating and celebrating God’s blessings.
In summary, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 is a rich tapestry of thanksgiving, personal testimony, communal celebration, acknowledgment of God's discipline, and recognition of the miraculous ways of God. It weaves together themes of strength, salvation, discipline, redemption, and joy, making it a powerful and enduring passage in the Hebrew Scriptures.
1 Corinthians 15:1-11 presents the core of the Christian faith as articulated by the Apostle Paul. In this section, Paul emphasizes the fundamental doctrine of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, asserting its historical reality and its significance for the believers. He recounts how Christ appeared to him and others after the resurrection, thereby validating the truth of the Gospel that he and the other apostles have preached. This passage serves as a cornerstone for the Christian belief in resurrection and eternal life, and it underscores the importance of holding firmly to the teachings received from the apostles. Through his personal testimony and the accounts of other witnesses, Paul aims to strengthen the faith of the Corinthians and ensure their adherence to the true Gospel.15 1 Now I would remind you, brothers and sisters, of the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you in turn received, in which also you stand, 2 through which also you are being saved, if you hold firmly to the message that I proclaimed to you—unless you have come to believe in vain.
3 For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, 4 and that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me. 9 For I am the least of the apostles, unfit to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me has not been in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them—though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me. 11 Whether then it was I or they, so we proclaim and so you have come to believe.
Expository Commentary
Verses 1-2: Reminder of the Gospel
- Paul's Reminder: Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel he preached to them, which they received and in which they stand.
Verses 3-5: The Core of the Gospel—Christ's Death and Resurrection
- Salvation Through Adherence: He emphasizes that through this gospel, they are saved, if they hold firmly to the word he preached. This implies a conditional aspect of salvation—it is contingent on steadfast faith.
- Primacy of Christ’s Death for Sins: Paul declares that he passed on what was of utmost importance: Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.
- Resurrection and Appearances: He affirms Christ’s burial and his resurrection on the third day, again in accordance with the Scriptures. This reference to Scripture underscores the fulfillment of prophecy.
Verses 6-8: Further Witnesses
- Witnesses to the Resurrection: The risen Christ appeared to Cephas (Peter), then to the Twelve. These appearances offer eyewitness testimony to the resurrection.
- Appearance to More Than Five Hundred: Christ appeared to more than five hundred believers at once, most of whom were still alive when Paul wrote, serving as living witnesses.
- Appearance to James and All Apostles: Subsequent appearances to James and all the apostles further bolster the claim of the resurrection.
Verses 9-10: Paul’s Self-Reflection
- Paul’s Personal Encounter: Lastly, Paul refers to Christ's appearance to him as “one untimely born,” indicating his own unexpected and transformative encounter with Christ.
- Acknowledgment of Unworthiness: Paul acknowledges his unworthiness due to his past persecution of the church.
Verse 11: Unified Message of the Apostles
- Grace and Apostleship: Despite this, he recognizes the grace he received and stresses that he has worked harder than all the other apostles—though he clarifies that it is not him, but the grace of God working through him.
1 Corinthians 15:1-11 is a powerful affirmation of the core Christian belief in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul uses his and others' experiences to validate the truth of the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of holding fast to this truth. This passage is fundamental in understanding the early Christian witness and the transformative power of the resurrection as the cornerstone of Christian faith.
- Consistency in Preaching: Paul concludes by stating that whether it was he or the other apostles who preached, the message was consistent, and the Corinthians have believed in that message.
The passage John 20:1-18 presents a poignant and transformative moment in Christian narrative, describing the discovery of Jesus' empty tomb and his post-resurrection appearances. This section begins with Mary Magdalene visiting the tomb early in the morning, only to find the stone rolled away and the tomb empty. Distraught, she runs to Simon Peter and the other disciple, who then come to see the empty tomb for themselves. The focus then shifts back to Mary, who encounters two angels in the tomb and, subsequently, Jesus himself, though she initially does not recognize him. This encounter marks a crucial point in the Gospel, as Jesus entrusts Mary with the message of his resurrection, which she then joyfully announces to the disciples. This narrative not only emphasizes the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy about his resurrection but also highlights the significant role of Mary Magdalene as the first witness to this cornerstone event of the Christian faith.20 1 Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. 2 So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” 3 Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb. 4 The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5 He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. 6 Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, 7 and the cloth that had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. 8 Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; 9 for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. 10 Then the disciples returned to their homes.
11 But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb; 12 and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet. 13 They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” 14 When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. 15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” 16 Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni!” (which means Teacher). 17 Jesus said to her, “Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” 18 Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”; and she told them that he had said these things to her.
Expository Commentary
Verse 1 — The Discovery of the Empty Tomb: Mary Magdalene visits the tomb early in the morning, while it's still dark, signifying perhaps not just the time of day but also the spiritual darkness of uncertainty and grief. The removal of the stone from the tomb’s entrance suggests an extraordinary event has occurred.
Verse 2 — Mary’s Reaction: Mary runs to Simon Peter and the other disciple (believed to be John), indicating her distress and confusion. Her assumption that Jesus' body has been taken away reflects the initial inability to grasp the concept of resurrection.
Verses 3-5 — Peter and the Other Disciple Run to the Tomb: Peter and the other disciple run towards the tomb. The other disciple outruns Peter, arriving first, but he does not enter. This hesitance may symbolize a reverence or a moment of awe and uncertainty.
Verses 6-7 — Peter Enters the Tomb: Peter, often characterized by his impulsive nature, goes directly into the tomb and notices the linen wrappings lying there. The detail that the cloth which had been on Jesus’ head not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself could indicate an orderly, not hurried, departure, countering the idea of grave robbery.
Verses 8-9 — The Beloved Disciple’s Belief:** The other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside, saw, and believed. This is significant as it suggests an understanding or belief in resurrection, even though they did not fully understand the Scripture that Jesus must rise from the dead.
**Verse 10 — The Disciples Return Home:** After this extraordinary event, the disciples return home. This might reflect their confusion or the need to process what they had just witnessed.
Verses 11-13 — Mary Sees Angels: Mary stands weeping outside the tomb and decides to look inside. She sees two angels in white, sitting where Jesus' body had been lying. Their presence signifies the sacredness of the event, and their question and her response highlight her grief and confusion.
Verses 14-16 — Jesus Appears to Mary: Mary turns around and sees Jesus standing there, but she does not recognize him initially. This could symbolize the change in Jesus post-resurrection or her own grief-blinded perception. When Jesus speaks her name, there’s a moment of recognition, illustrating a personal and transformative encounter with the risen Christ.
Verse 17 — Jesus’ Message to Mary: Jesus instructs Mary not to hold onto him, indicating that his resurrected form is not to be clung to physically. He mentions his ascension to the Father, emphasizing his divine mission and identity.
Verse 18 — Mary Announces the Resurrection: Mary Magdalene goes to the disciples and announces, "I have seen the Lord." This statement is profound, as she becomes the first witness to the resurrected Christ, underscoring her role in the Christian narrative.
Each verse in this passage carries deep theological implications, reflecting themes of belief, revelation, and the transformative power of the Resurrection. Mary Magdalene's role is particularly significant, as she bridges the gap between the grief-stricken followers of a crucified teacher and the joyful witnesses of a risen Christ.
Here end the Readings
Easter Is Here
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 New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Commentaries are by Kenny Sallee, ThM, aided by ChatGPT. The biblical commentaries provided here are intended for educational and spiritual enrichment purposes only. The interpretations and insights offered are based on the authors' understanding and perspective of the Bible, which may be influenced by their theological training, denominational background, and personal beliefs.
The Daily Lectionary is a three year cyclical lectionary. We are currently in Year B. Beginning with the first Sunday of Advent in 2024, we will be in Year C. The year which ended at Advent 2023 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
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