The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers
with Commentaries
Sunday, January 28, 2024
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Guidance, Reverence, Knowledge,
with Commentaries
Sunday, January 28, 2024
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Guidance, Reverence, Knowledge,
and Authority
Deuteronomy 18:15-20; Psalm 111;
Deuteronomy 18:15-20; Psalm 111;
1 Corinthians 8:1-13; Mark 1:21-28
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Ordinary 4)
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Ordinary 4)
Miracles Worship Intro
We serve a mighty and powerful God. A God who has done the miraculous throughout history. In the Bible, we see moment after moment where God intervenes in a miraculous way. What about now? Do we believe God can do the same things He did in the Bible? Is He still doing the miraculous today? Do you believe in miracles?
Introduction
In this collection of scriptural passages, we embark on a journey through divine guidance, reverential praise, ethical knowledge, and spiritual authority. Deuteronomy 18:15-20 promises a prophet like Moses to guide the people, emphasizing the importance of heeding true divine messages. Psalm 111 celebrates the works and enduring righteousness of the Lord, offering a song of praise for His great deeds and unfathomable wisdom. 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 navigates the complex terrain of knowledge and liberty, urging believers to act with love and consideration for the weaker conscience of others. Finally, Mark 1:21-28 demonstrates Jesus's unparalleled authority as he teaches with power and casts out demons, leaving the people astonished at his teaching. Together, these passages weave a tapestry of divine interaction, moral responsibility, and the profound impact of recognizing and respecting God's authority in the world.
Opening Prayer
(Psalm 111)
(Psalm 111)
Heavenly Father, we gather in Your sacred presence with hearts full of gratitude, inspired by Psalm 111. In Your works, so great and profound, we see the reflection of Your majesty and wisdom. You have shown us the power of Your deeds, stirring within us a profound reverence and awe for Your unending goodness.
As we open this gathering, we praise You, Lord, for You are gracious and compassionate. Your works are a testament to Your faithfulness and justice. Help us to understand the meaning of Your precepts and to live in a manner that honors Your holy name.
Guide our thoughts and actions, that we may embody the righteousness that endures forever, as revealed in Your commandments. May our conduct reflect the beauty of Your work, and may our lives be a continual offering of thanksgiving to You, who provides for us and remembers Your covenant always.
In the wisdom and understanding that You bestow, let us find delight. May our souls be steadfast, fearing Your name and finding joy in Your eternal praise. We commit this time to You, seeking Your blessing and guidance in all that we undertake.
In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
(Psalm 111, Mark 1)
(Psalm 111, Mark 1)
Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging Your greatness and majesty as revealed in Your Word. You are the Lord who performs mighty deeds, whose righteousness endures forever. Your works are great and filled with honor and majesty; Your righteousness stands for all time.
Yet, Lord, as we reflect upon Your purity and faithfulness, we recognize our own failings and shortcomings. Like the people who came to John the Baptist, we confess that we too have sinned and strayed from Your ways. We have not always lived in awe of Your works, nor have we consistently sought Your wisdom. Our hearts have often been hard and our spirits resistant to Your guidance.
In Your mercy, Lord, forgive us. Cleanse us as You cleansed the lepers, heal us as You healed the sick, and call us anew as You called Your disciples. Help us to repent genuinely and to embrace the Good News that in Jesus Christ, our sins are forgiven.
Teach us to fear Your name and to find joy in Your commandments. Fill us with Your Spirit, that we might walk in Your ways and bring glory to Your name. Let our lives be a testament to Your enduring righteousness and Your unfailing love.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, we pray. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
(Psalm 111)
(Psalm 111)
Beloved, as we gather in the shadow of God's mighty works, let us recall the words of Psalm 111. "Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Full of splendor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever." In His wisdom, He has laid out a path for us, a covenant etched in the very fabric of time.
We falter and stumble, losing our way, yet His works are a beacon, calling us back to His embrace. His hands, ever outstretched, offer forgiveness for our transgressions, not through our merit, but through His unending grace. The Lord, compassionate and gracious, remembers His covenant, and in our sincerest repentance, we find His assurance of pardon.
So, let your hearts be lifted and your spirits renewed, for in the Lord's redemption, we find our way from darkness into His eternal light. With humble hearts, we accept this divine forgiveness, vowing to walk in His wisdom and righteousness all our days. Amen.
Today’s Lectionary Readings
First Reading
From the Pentateuch
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
The Promise of a Prophet Like Moses
First Reading
From the Pentateuch
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
The Promise of a Prophet Like Moses
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 is a pivotal passage within the larger narrative of the Pentateuch, where Moses, nearing the end of his life and leadership, addresses the Israelites with a promise from God. This promise is not merely for immediate comfort but sets the stage for future expectations of prophetic leadership among God's people. The text serves as a bridge between Moses' own historical role and the anticipation of a future prophet like him, who would guide, teach, and mediate between God and His people.18 15 The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your fellow Israelites. You must listen to him. 16 For this is what you asked of the Lord your God at Horeb on the day of the assembly when you said, “Let us not hear the voice of the Lord our God nor see this great fire anymore, or we will die.”
17 The Lord said to me: “What they say is good. 18 I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their fellow Israelites, and I will put my words in his mouth. He will tell them everything I command him. 19 I myself will call to account anyone who does not listen to my words that the prophet speaks in my name. 20 But a prophet who presumes to speak in my name anything I have not commanded, or a prophet who speaks in the name of other gods, is to be put to death.”
Commentary
Verse 15: This verse establishes the core promise: God will raise a prophet like Moses from among the Israelites. The phrase "like me" suggests that this future prophet will share characteristics with Moses, possibly in terms of leadership, closeness to God, and the authority to convey God's will. The command to "listen to him" emphasizes the prophet's authority and the people's responsibility to heed his words.
Verse 16: This verse recalls a specific historical moment at Horeb (Sinai) where the people, overwhelmed by the direct experience of God's presence, pleaded for a mediator. It contextualizes the promise by reminding the Israelites of their own request for a prophetic intermediary, someone who could stand between the divine and the human without the terrifying directness they experienced at Sinai.
Verse 17: God affirms the people's request as good, validating the need for a mediator. This affirmation also sets a precedent for the prophetic role as a divinely approved means of communication between God and His people.
Verse 18: Here, the promise is reiterated with additional details. The future prophet will be one of the people, ensuring a relatable and empathetic leader. The phrase "I will put my words in his mouth" signifies that the prophet's message will be not his own, but directly from God, ensuring the purity and authority of his teachings.
Verse 19: This verse presents the serious consequences of ignoring the prophet's message. It underscores the divine authority behind the prophet and indicates that rejecting the prophet is equivalent to rejecting God Himself.
Verse 20: Finally, this verse addresses the issue of false prophets. It sets a stern warning against those who would falsely claim divine authority or promote the worship of other gods. This ensures the purity of the prophetic office and maintains the focus on true, God-given revelation.
Conclusion: Deuteronomy 18:15-20 is a profound text that not only reflects the immediate historical context of the Israelites but also sets a pattern for understanding prophetic authority and the expectation of divine guidance. It bridges the gap between Moses, the archetypal prophet, and the future leaders who would guide Israel. The passage is foundational for understanding the role of prophets in Israel's history and continues to influence Judeo-Christian expectations of divine communication and guidance.
A Psalm and A Prayer
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 111
A Celebration of God's Wondrous Works
Responsive Readings from the Psalms and Prayers
for Public Worship and Private Devotions
Psalm 111
A Celebration of God's Wondrous Works
Psalm 111 invites us to join in a song of praise, celebrating the incredible works and steadfast character of God. This psalm, a part of the Hebrew Psalter, stands as a beautiful expression of thanksgiving and awe. The psalmist uses rich imagery and poetic language to highlight the majesty and righteousness of God's deeds. It emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring God's commandments, and it underscores the eternal nature of His precepts. The psalm serves as a reminder of God's unchanging faithfulness and the wisdom found in following His ways.1 Praise the Lord. *
I will extol the Lord with all my heart
in the council of the upright and in the assembly.
2 Great are the works of the Lord; *
They are pondered by all who delight in them.
3 Glorious and majestic are his deeds, *
And his righteousness endures forever.
4 He has caused his wonders to be remembered; *
The Lord is gracious and compassionate.
5 He provides food for those who fear him; *
He remembers his covenant forever.
6 He has shown his people the power of his works, *
Giving them the lands of other nations.
7 The works of his hands are faithful and just; *
All his precepts are trustworthy.
8 They are established for ever and ever, *
Enacted in faithfulness and uprightness.
9 He provided redemption for his people; *
He ordained his covenant forever—
holy and awesome is his name.
10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; *
All who follow his precepts have good understanding.
To him belongs eternal praise.
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of awe and gratitude, reflecting on the splendor and majesty of Your works as revealed in Psalm 111. We praise You, O Lord, for Your great deeds are glorious and majestic, and Your righteousness endures forever.
Lord, we are humbled by Your gracious deeds and Your compassionate nature. Thank You for providing redemption for Your people, for sending Your covenant, and for being trustworthy and faithful in all Your promises.
Grant us the wisdom to revere You always, to understand Your precepts, and to live in the light of Your truth. May our hearts be ever thankful as we recount Your mighty acts and the splendor of Your works.
Help us, O God, to remember Your wonders and to share Your love and righteousness with others. May our lives be testimonies of Your grace, reflecting Your glory and majesty to the world.
In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray, Amen.
1 Corinthians 8:1-13 addresses the complex issue of eating food sacrificed to idols, a pertinent concern in the Corinthian church. Paul navigates the delicate balance between knowledge and love, emphasizing that while all possess knowledge, it is love that builds up the community. This passage delves into the tension between personal freedom and communal responsibility, urging believers to consider their actions' impact on others' faith.8 1 Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that “We all possess knowledge.” But knowledge puffs up while love builds up. 2 Those who think they know something do not yet know as they ought to know. 3 But whoever loves God is known by God.
4 So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that “An idol is nothing at all in the world” and that “There is no God but one.” 5 For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”), 6 yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.
7 But not everyone possesses this knowledge. Some people are still so accustomed to idols that when they eat sacrificial food they think of it as having been sacrificed to a god, and since their conscience is weak, it is defiled. 8 But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.
9 Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak. 10 For if someone with a weak conscience sees you, with all your knowledge, eating in an idol’s temple, won’t that person be emboldened to eat what is sacrificed to idols? 11 So this weak brother or sister, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. 12 When you sin against them in this way and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. 13 Therefore, if what I eat causes my brother or sister to fall into sin, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause them to fall.
Commentary
Verse 1-3: The Primacy of Love Over Knowledge
- Verse 1: Paul introduces the topic of eating food offered to idols, acknowledging that while all have knowledge, it can lead to arrogance. He sets the stage for a discussion on how knowledge should be employed within the community.
- Verse 2: He cautions that those who think they know everything are lacking. True understanding comes from recognizing one's limitations.
- Verse 3: Paul asserts that love is superior to knowledge. Being known by God is highlighted as the ultimate goal, not merely possessing intellectual understanding.
- Verse 4: Paul acknowledges the common belief among Christians that idols represent nothing real and that there is only one God.
- Verse 5-6: Despite the existence of so-called gods, for Christians, there is only one God, the Father, and one Lord, Jesus Christ. All existence and life are through them, establishing a monotheistic view amidst a polytheistic culture.
- Verse 7: Not all believers possess this knowledge. Some, accustomed to idols, still feel guilty eating such food, defiling their conscience.
- Verse 8: Paul clarifies that food does not bring us closer to God. Abstaining or eating does not affect one's spiritual standing, but the impact on others' conscience is crucial.
- Verse 9: The freedom of some might become a stumbling block to the weak, urging caution in exercising liberty.
- Verse 10-11: If someone with a weak conscience sees a knowledgeable believer eating in an idol's temple, they might be encouraged to act against their conscience, thus sinning and weakening their faith.
- Verse 12: Sinning against fellow believers and wounding their weak conscience is equated to sinning against Christ, emphasizing the severity of disregarding others' spiritual well-being.
- Verse 13: Paul concludes by stating his personal commitment to never eat meat if it causes a brother or sister to fall, illustrating the extent to which love should inform one's actions and decisions.
In Mark 1:21-28, we witness a profound moment early in Jesus' ministry that reveals His unparalleled authority and the astonishment it provokes among the people. This passage not only depicts an exorcism but also sets the stage for understanding Jesus' divine nature and the radical new teaching He brings. This event unfolds in Capernaum, a place that becomes central to many of Jesus' miracles and teachings, offering us a glimpse into the transformative power and authority of Christ over the spiritual realm.1 21 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. 23 Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, 24 “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”
25 “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” 26 The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.
27 The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” 28 News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.
Commentary
Verse 21: Jesus enters Capernaum and, observing the Sabbath, goes to the synagogue. His choice to teach in a synagogue demonstrates a respect for Jewish customs and the established places of worship. Here, Jesus begins to establish His role as a teacher with a new and authoritative message.
Verse 22: The crowd immediately recognizes something different in Jesus’ teaching. Unlike the scribes, who often cited tradition and previous rabbis, Jesus speaks with direct authority. His words carry a weight and self-assurance that set Him apart and captivate the listeners.
Verse 23: As Jesus teaches, a dramatic event unfolds. A man possessed by an impure spirit interrupts the scene. This sudden confrontation not only sets the stage for a display of Jesus' authority over evil but also highlights the spiritual battle at hand.
Verse 24: The impure spirit recognizes Jesus and His divine authority, acknowledging Him as the "Holy One of God." This confession from an unclean spirit paradoxically affirms Jesus' identity and mission, revealing the spiritual recognition of His authority even among demonic forces.
Verse 25: Jesus' response is swift and commanding. He silences the spirit, asserting His authority over it. His command to "come out" is not just a physical deliverance for the possessed man but a demonstration of His power over the forces of darkness.
Verse 26: The reaction of the impure spirit is violent and immediate, showing the struggle between good and evil. The spirit's departure with a shriek signifies not just a physical exit but a defeat and acknowledgment of Jesus' superior power.
Verse 27: The witnesses are left astonished. They recognize that Jesus' teaching is not only profound in content but also powerful in action. His authority extends beyond words to command even the unseen forces of evil.
Verse 28: The impact of this event is immediate and widespread. The news of Jesus' authority and power spreads rapidly, setting the stage for His growing influence and the increasing curiosity and scrutiny He will face.
Conclusion: Mark 1:21-28 presents a powerful narrative of Jesus' early ministry, where His teaching and actions reveal His divine authority and the new kingdom He inaugurates. This passage invites readers to reflect on the nature of Jesus' power and the implications of His authority over both the physical and spiritual realms. It challenges us to consider our response to His astonishing teachings and the transformative impact of His presence in our lives.
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.
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
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)
(Philippians 2)
Heavenly Father, as we gather to partake in Communion, we are reminded of Your Son's profound humility and obedience. Just as Jesus humbled Himself, becoming obedient to death on a cross, we too humble ourselves before You and each other.
Lord, in this sacred moment, let us embrace the mind of Christ. Teach us to value others above ourselves, not looking to our own interests but to the interests of others. As we share this bread, symbolic of Christ's body, and this cup, representative of His blood, may we be united in Your love and purpose.
Strengthen our bonds of fellowship and deepen our commitment to serve as Jesus served. May this act of Communion be a testament to our collective desire to follow Christ's example, working together with one spirit and one purpose.
Through this holy sacrament, renew our hearts and minds, aligning them with Your will. Help us to shine as lights in the world, holding firmly to the word of life.
We give thanks for the ultimate sacrifice of Your Son, our Lord, and Savior Jesus Christ, whose love and grace are ever present in our lives.
In Jesus' Name, we pray, Amen.
Benediction
(Psalm 111, Mark 1)
(Psalm 111, Mark 1)
May the grace of the Lord, who guided the psalmist's heart in Psalm 111, rest upon you. May your life reflect the awe and reverence due to His mighty works, just as the psalmist declared, "Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them." May the wisdom and understanding that comes from fearing the Lord fill your days, leading you to a life of righteousness and praise.
As Jesus proclaimed the good news of God in Mark 1, announcing, "The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!" so too may your journey be marked by a turning towards His holy presence. May the authority of Christ, which astonished the people as He taught and drove out demons, empower you to overcome the challenges you face.
In the spirit of John the Baptist, may you prepare the way for the Lord in your heart, making straight paths for His truth and love to enter. And like the first disciples, may you hear the call of Jesus to follow Him and become a fisher of men, spreading the hope and salvation found in Him.
As you walk in the footsteps of Christ, may your life be a living testimony to God's enduring faithfulness and His unending love. Amen.
Where is Your Treasure
Where is Your Treasure?
We live in a world that values ‘things’ a great deal. It seems to be that “stuff” is the greatest treasure of our culture. The more toys you pile up, the more power you possess is what this life is all about, right? Jesus challenges this notion and encourages his followers to store up a different kind of treasure; a treasure that will last into eternity. Where is Your Treasure?
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. Commentaries by Kenny Sallee, ThM, aided by ChatGPT.
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
The Sunday Lectionary and Prayers for Sunday, January 28, 2024
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany
Guidance, Reverence, Knowledge, and Authority
Deuteronomy 18:15-20; Psalm 111; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13; Mark 1:21-28
In this anthology of sacred texts, we undertake a voyage through celestial direction, solemn adoration, moral wisdom, and hallowed command. Our exploration in Deuteronomy foretells a prophet akin to Moses to lead the faithful, highlighting the criticality of adhering to authentic celestial pronouncements. Psalm 111 exalts the deeds and perpetual righteousness of the Divine, offering a hymn of acclaim for His majestic acts and inscrutable sagacity. Our examination in 1 Corinthians delves into the intricate realms of understanding and freedom, exhorting the faithful to behave with compassion and mindfulness for the more impressionable believers. Lastly, our perusal in Mark unveils Jesus's unrivaled dominion as he instructs with vigor and dispels evil spirits, leaving the masses marveling at his doctrine. Collectively, these readings compose a mosaic of divine interaction, ethical obligation, and the profound influence of acknowledging and venerating God's supremacy in our existence.
