The Sunday Lectionary with Commentaries for Sunday, April 7, 2024: Second Sunday of Easter

 

The Sunday Lectionary
with Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Sunday, April 7, 2024: Second Sunday of Easter

United in Faith and Fellowship

Acts 4:32-35; Psalm 133; 1 John 1:1—2:2; John 20:19-31
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Easter 2)

Introduction

This collection of scriptures, encompassing Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133, 1 John 1:1—2:2, and John 20:19-31, illustrates the profound beauty and strength found in unity and fellowship under the banner of faith. In Acts, we witness the early Christian community living in harmony, sharing everything they have, demonstrating the power of collective faith in action. Psalm 133 echoes this sentiment, poetically celebrating the blessings of unity among God's people. The first letter of John invites us into a deep fellowship with one another and with God, through the shared experience of the Word of life, emphasizing the light of truth in our communal walk. Finally, John's Gospel provides a poignant narrative of Jesus' post-resurrection appearances, offering peace and breathing the Holy Spirit upon his disciples, reinforcing the faith of those who believe without seeing. Together, these passages underscore the importance of unity, love, and faith in our shared spiritual journey.

Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
From the Acts of the Apostles
Acts 4:32-35
The Believers’ Common Life

Acts 4:32-35 presents a profound depiction of the early Christian community's unity and generosity. In this passage, we witness the believers living in remarkable harmony, exemplifying the Christian ideal of sharing and selflessness. They are described as being 'of one heart and soul', and not a single person claimed private ownership of any possessions. Instead, they shared everything they had with great power and grace. The apostles continue to bear witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace is upon them all. There is a poignant emphasis on the eradication of need within the community, as those who owned lands or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds to be distributed to each as any had need. This passage challenges readers with its portrayal of radical communal living, driven by faith and a deep sense of responsibility towards one another.

4 32 Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. 33 With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. 34 There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. 35 They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.

Expository Commentary

Verse 32: This verse sets the tone for the unity and communal living among the early Christians. It emphasizes their spiritual and emotional unity ("one heart and soul"), indicating a deep bond that went beyond mere agreement in belief. The concept of not claiming "private ownership" challenges contemporary understandings of property and wealth. This communal approach suggests a radical departure from individualistic tendencies, focusing on the community's wellbeing.

Verse 33: The "great power" in the apostles' testimony signifies the strength and conviction with which they preached about Jesus’ resurrection. This was central to the Christian message and a source of inspiration for their communal lifestyle. "Great grace was upon them all" indicates a sense of divine favor and blessing on the community. This grace is both the cause and effect of their unity and generosity, suggesting that their lifestyle was both a response to and a recipient of God's grace.

Verse 34: This verse highlights the practical outworking of their beliefs. The absence of needy persons in their midst was a direct result of the believers' actions – selling their properties to support those in need. This action reflects a profound commitment to equity and care within the community, prioritizing people over possessions.

Verse 35: Laying the proceeds at the apostles' feet signifies trust and respect for the apostles' leadership. It also indicates an organized approach to distribution, ensuring fairness and accountability. The phrase "distributed to each as any had need" reinforces the community's commitment to addressing individual needs, ensuring no one was neglected. It speaks of a personalized and responsive approach to community care.

In summary, Acts 4:32-35 provides a vivid portrayal of early Christian communal life, characterized by unity, selflessness, and a profound commitment to ensuring no one in the community was in need. This passage reflects a radical lifestyle, deeply rooted in the values taught by Jesus and inspired by the apostles' teachings and leadership.

From the Psalter
Psalm 133
How Good it is to Live in Unity

Psalm 133, a part of the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament, is a beautiful and concise song of ascent, attributed traditionally to King David. This short psalm stands as a poignant hymn celebrating the blessings and beauty of unity among brethren. Rich in metaphorical language, it likens the harmony among God's people to the precious oil used in religious rituals and the dew of Hermon descending upon the mountains of Zion. It emphasizes the value and sacredness of communal harmony, suggesting that such unity is not only pleasing but also a conduit for God's blessings. Psalm 133 is often read and reflected upon in both Jewish and Christian traditions to underscore the importance of fellowship and unity within the community of believers.

1    How very good and pleasant it is
        when kindred live together in unity!
2    It is like the precious oil on the head,
        running down upon the beard,
    on the beard of Aaron,
        running down over the collar of his robes.
3    It is like the dew of Hermon,
        which falls on the mountains of Zion.
    For there the Lord ordained his blessing,
        life forevermore.

Expository Commentary

Verse 1: This opening verse sets the theme of the psalm: the goodness and pleasantness of unity among brethren. The phrase "kindred live together in unity" encompasses not just familial relationships but the broader community of faith. It suggests an ideal state of harmony and mutual support.

Verse 2: This verse employs a rich metaphor, comparing the goodness of unity to the sacred anointing oil used in the consecration of Aaron, the High Priest. The oil, which is described as precious, signifies blessing, sanctification, and the presence of God. The imagery of the oil running down Aaron's beard and robes symbolizes the overflowing nature of God's blessings—abundant and covering all aspects of life.

Verse 3: The final verse continues with another metaphor: the unity among the faithful is like the dew of Mount Hermon falling on Mount Zion. Mount Hermon was known for its heavy dews, which are essential for sustaining life in arid climates. This comparison emphasizes the life-giving aspect of unity. The reference to Zion connects this life-giving quality to the spiritual life and the blessings bestowed by God. The phrase "for there the Lord ordained his blessing, life forevermore" underscores the ultimate gift of unity—eternal life and blessing from God.

In summary, Psalm 133 celebrates the deep spiritual and communal blessings of unity among believers. Through vivid imagery, it conveys the idea that such harmony is as precious and life-giving as sacred oil and nourishing dew, ultimately leading to the eternal blessing from God. This psalm remains a powerful reminder of the value of unity in the faith community.

Second Reading
From the Epistles
1 John 1:1—2:2
Walking in the Light

1 John 1:1—2:2 is a profound passage that opens with a profound reflection on the nature of Jesus Christ and his relationship with humanity. John, the author, emphasizes the tangible and personal experience of Jesus, asserting that he and others have heard, seen, and touched the Word of Life, who was with the Father and made manifest. This introduction sets the stage for a discussion about living in the light of God, confessing sins, and the redemptive power of Jesus Christ. It serves as a compelling reminder of the intimate and real connection between the divine and the human, encouraging believers to live truthfully in the light of God's love and forgiveness, and acknowledging Jesus Christ as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the whole world.

1 1 We declare to you what was from the beginning, what we have heard, what we have seen with our eyes, what we have looked at and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2 this life was revealed, and we have seen it and testify to it, and declare to you the eternal life that was with the Father and was revealed to us— 3 we declare to you what we have seen and heard so that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 We are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.

5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light and in him there is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him while we are walking in darkness, we lie and do not do what is true; 7 but if we walk in the light as he himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

2 1 My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; 2 and he is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.

Expository Commentary

Verse 1:1: This verse highlights the tangible nature of Christ's incarnation. John emphasizes that Jesus is not an abstract concept but was physically heard, seen, and touched. This underscores the reality of Jesus' humanity and His presence among His followers.

Verse 1:2: The "life" that was revealed refers to Jesus Christ. This revelation of life is both a testimony and a message that John and the other apostles are sharing. It's an invitation to understand Jesus not just as a historical figure, but as the eternal life who was with the Father.

Verse 1:3: John expresses the purpose of his proclamation – to invite others into fellowship with those who have witnessed Jesus. This fellowship is not merely with other believers, but with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, highlighting the community aspect of Christian faith.

Verse 1:4: Writing these things refers to John’s message about Jesus. The joy mentioned here is the profound joy found in Christian fellowship and the knowledge of Christ, a joy that is made complete when shared with others.

Verse 1:5: This verse presents the central message John has received from Jesus: God is light, and in Him, there is no darkness. This metaphorical language describes God’s pure and holy nature and sets the stage for the contrast between walking in light (righteousness) and darkness (sin).

Verse 1:6: John confronts any claims of fellowship with God that are not matched by a life reflecting God's character. Living in darkness while claiming to be in the light is seen as living a lie and not practicing the truth of God’s word.

Verse 1:7: Walking in the light is equated with living in truth and righteousness. It’s in this walk that believers have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus cleanses them from sin. This introduces the concept of ongoing purification for believers.

Verse 1:8: Here, John addresses a human tendency to deny our sinful nature. Claiming to be without sin is self-deception and a denial of the truth of human nature and the need for Christ’s redemption.

Verse 1:9: A key verse for Christian doctrine, it assures believers that confession of sins leads to forgiveness and purification. It speaks of God's faithfulness and justice, not only in forgiving sins but also in cleansing from unrighteousness.

Verse 1:10: This verse again tackles the denial of sin. Denying sin is equivalent to making God a liar, as it contradicts His word that declares all have sinned and need redemption.

Verse 2:1: John addresses his readers affectionately, emphasizing his desire for them to avoid sin. Yet, he acknowledges human fallibility and points to Jesus Christ, the Advocate with the Father, emphasizing His role in interceding for believers.

Verse 2:2: Jesus is portrayed as the atoning sacrifice for sins, not only for those of believers but for the whole world. This universal aspect of Christ's atonement emphasizes the wide-reaching love and grace of God towards all humanity.

Through these verses, 1 John 1:1—2:2 intricately weaves together the themes of fellowship, truth, sin, confession, and redemption, centered on the person and work of Jesus Christ. It presents a holistic view of Christian life, grounded in the reality of Jesus' incarnation and the transformative power of His atonement.

Today’s Gospel Reading
John 20:19-31
Beholding the Wounds of the Risen Christ

The passage John 20:19-31, also known as the story of "Doubting Thomas," takes place after the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This significant section of the Gospel of John narrates the appearance of the resurrected Jesus to his disciples, emphasizing the themes of faith, doubt, and belief. In this narrative, Jesus appears to his disciples, offering peace and showing them the wounds of his crucifixion. The disciple Thomas, not present at this first appearance, expresses skepticism about Jesus' resurrection until he himself sees Jesus. This passage culminates with Thomas' declaration of faith and Jesus' profound statement about belief without seeing, offering a powerful reflection on faith and the nature of belief in the unseen.

20 19 When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 20 After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” 22 When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”

24 But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.”

26 A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.” 28 Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” 29 Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.”

30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. 31 But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.

Expository Commentary

Verses 19-20 — Jesus Appears to the Disciples: The passage begins on the evening of the resurrection day. The disciples are gathered, doors locked for fear of the Jewish authorities. Jesus appears among them, saying, "Peace be with you," and shows them his hands and side. This moment is significant as it marks Jesus' first appearance to the disciples post-resurrection and demonstrates his continued presence and peace in their lives despite his crucifixion.

Verses 21-23 — Jesus Commissions the Disciples: After greeting them, Jesus commissions the disciples, saying, “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” He breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” This act echoes the creation story where God breathes life into Adam, symbolizing the disciples receiving new life and authority to continue Jesus’ mission.

Verses 24-25 — Thomas' Doubt: Thomas, one of the twelve disciples, was not present when Jesus first appeared to the group. When told about Jesus' appearance, Thomas expresses doubt, insisting he needs to see and touch Jesus’ wounds to believe. This sets the stage for a profound lesson on faith and belief.

Verses 26-29 — Jesus Appears to Thomas: A week later, Jesus appears again when Thomas is present. He invites Thomas to touch his wounds and urges him not to doubt but believe. Thomas responds with a profound confession of faith, "My Lord and my God!" This interaction addresses the struggle between doubt and faith and highlights the importance of personal experience in the journey of belief.

Verses 30-31 — The Purpose of the Gospel: The author notes that Jesus performed many other signs not recorded in the book. The purpose of these written ones is to help readers believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing, they may have life in his name. This concluding statement underlines the evangelistic and faith-deepening intent of the Gospel of John.

Each part of this passage provides profound insights into the nature of the resurrected Jesus, the mission of his followers, and the dynamics of faith and doubt. It emphasizes the personal encounter with Christ as the cornerstone of belief and the transformative power of the resurrection in the lives of believers.

Here end the Readings

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