The Daily Lectionary
With Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
Divine Calls to Renewal and Righteousness
Psalm 150; Hosea 5:15—6:6; 2 John 1-6
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Easter 3)
Introduction
With Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Tuesday, April 16, 2024
Divine Calls to Renewal and Righteousness
Psalm 150; Hosea 5:15—6:6; 2 John 1-6
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Easter 3)
Introduction
Psalm 150, Hosea 5:15—6:6, and 2 John 1-6 collectively convey a profound message of divine invitation and expectation. Psalm 150 celebrates the limitless ways of praising God, emphasizing the importance of worship in every aspect of existence. Hosea, in chapters 5:15 to 6:6, presents a poignant call for repentance and renewal, illustrating God's desire for His people to return to Him with genuine hearts. Finally, 2 John 1-6 encapsulates the essence of living in truth and love, underscoring the foundational Christian principles of following God's commandments and fostering a deep, enduring relationship with Him. These scriptures together invite believers to a deeper understanding of their faith, urging a life marked by sincere worship, repentance, and love in accordance with God's will.
Psalm 150, the final chapter in the Book of Psalms, serves as an exuberant conclusion to this ancient collection of religious poetry. Revered in Jewish, Christian, and other religious traditions, this psalm is a vibrant call to praise God, known in Hebrew as "Hallelujah". It stands out for its emphatic and repetitive encouragement of worship through music and dance. Unlike other psalms that often include pleas, laments, or thanksgiving, Psalm 150 focuses solely on praising the Lord, emphasizing the use of various musical instruments. Set in the context of the sanctuary, or "his mighty firmament", it invites everything that breathes to join in this universal chorus of praise, thus encapsulating the spirit of joy and adoration that characterizes much of the Psalms.1 Praise the LORD!
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty firmament!
Praise him for his mighty deeds;
praise him according to his surpassing greatness!
3 Praise him with trumpet sound;
praise him with lute and harp!
4 Praise him with tambourine and dance;
praise him with strings and pipe!
5 Praise him with clanging cymbals;
praise him with loud clashing cymbals!
6 Let everything that breathes praise the LORD!
Praise the LORD!
Expository Commentary
Verse 1: This verse opens with a universal call to praise God, referred to as "the Lord". The "sanctuary" implies a sacred space, possibly the Temple in Jerusalem, symbolizing God's presence among his people. The "mighty firmament" refers to the heavens, expanding this call to praise beyond earthly confines, indicating that God's glory fills the entire universe.
Verse 2: The psalmist encourages praise for God's "mighty deeds" and "surpassing greatness". This encompasses both God's acts in history, like creation and deliverance, and his incomparable nature. It suggests that God's deeds and character are reasons enough for adoration.
Verses 3-5: These verses emphasize the use of diverse musical instruments in worship: trumpet, lute, harp, tambourine, dance, strings, pipe, and cymbals. Each instrument mentioned adds a different texture to the symphony of praise. The inclusion of dance indicates that worship involves the whole body, not just the voice. The progression from softer to louder instruments (culminating in "loud clashing cymbals") mirrors the escalating intensity of the praise.
Verse 6: The final verse extends the call to praise to "everything that breathes", signifying all living creatures. This universal invitation underscores the belief that every living being is capable of recognizing and praising the Creator. The repetition of "Praise the Lord!" frames the entire psalm as a powerful and all-encompassing doxology.
In summary, Psalm 150 serves as a grand finale to the Book of Psalms. It not only calls for praising God in a specific sacred space but expands this praise to the cosmos, encompassing all creation. The use of a wide array of musical instruments and the inclusive call for every living being to join in this praise underscores the psalm's theme of universal and exuberant worship.
In Hosea 5:15—6:6, we encounter a profound dialogue between the Lord and His people, set against the backdrop of Israel's recurring unfaithfulness and the divine call for genuine repentance. This passage marks a critical transition, beginning with God's declaration of withdrawal (5:15), until the people seek Him earnestly. Chapter 6 opens with a collective call to return to the Lord, acknowledging His power to heal and revive. The imagery of rain and agricultural renewal symbolizes the hope of spiritual restoration. Yet, the Lord challenges the superficiality of their devotion, emphasizing the need for steadfast love and knowledge of God over mere ritual sacrifice. This section of Hosea powerfully combines themes of judgment and redemption, showcasing God's deep yearning for a sincere and lasting relationship with His people.5 15 I will return again to my place
until they acknowledge their guilt and seek my face.
In their distress they will beg my favor:
6 1 “Come, let us return to the LORD;
for it is he who has torn, and he will heal us;
he has struck down, and he will bind us up.
2 After two days he will revive us;
on the third day he will raise us up,
that we may live before him.
3 Let us know, let us press on to know the LORD;
his appearing is as sure as the dawn;
he will come to us like the showers,
like the spring rains that water the earth.”
4 What shall I do with you, O Ephraim?
What shall I do with you, O Judah?
Your love is like a morning cloud,
like the dew that goes away early.
5 Therefore I have hewn them by the prophets,
I have killed them by the words of my mouth,
and my judgment goes forth as the light.
6 For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice,
the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
Expository Commentary
Verse 5:15: God expresses His intention to withdraw from Israel, symbolizing a pause in divine intervention. This withdrawal is conditional and aims to prompt self-realization and repentance among the Israelites. The verse underscores the necessity of acknowledging sin and earnestly seeking God, especially in times of distress.
Verse 6:1: This verse reflects the people’s response to God’s withdrawal. It acknowledges God's role in their suffering as a consequence of their own actions, and their belief in His power to heal and restore. It's a call for collective repentance and a recognition of God’s dual role as just and merciful.
Verse 6:2: This verse symbolizes hope and renewal. The “two days” and “third day” may represent a period of suffering followed by a quick restoration, indicating faith in God’s ability to bring life and redemption. It is an expression of trust in God's power to restore life, akin to resurrection imagery.
Verse 6:3: This verse emphasizes the importance of pursuing a deeper knowledge and understanding of God. The imagery of dawn and spring rains symbolizes the certainty and refreshment that comes with God’s presence. It highlights a continuous, active effort to grow in relationship with God.
Verse 6:4: Here, God addresses the transient and unreliable nature of Israel and Judah’s loyalty. The morning cloud and early dew are metaphors for their fleeting devotion. This verse serves as a divine lament and a critique of their superficial commitment.
Verse 6:5: God speaks of His judgment delivered through the prophets. The metaphor of hewing and killing with words emphasizes the power and impact of prophetic messages. God’s judgment is described as light, implying clarity, truth, and inescapability.
Verse 6:6: This critical verse highlights what God truly desires from His people: steadfast love and knowledge of Him over ritualistic sacrifices. It is a call for sincere, heartfelt devotion and understanding of God’s nature, rather than mere outward religious observances. This verse speaks to the heart of God’s relationship with humanity, valuing genuine connection over formalism.
2 John 1-6 presents an intimate and pastoral letter written by the Apostle John. This brief passage, addressed to an unnamed 'elect lady and her children,' emphasizes the enduring themes of love and truth within the Christian faith. John commends his audience for their faithfulness and adherence to the teachings of Christ, while urging them to continue walking in love, as commanded by Jesus. This portion of the scripture reflects the essence of early Christian life and doctrine, where love is not just an emotion but an action rooted in living truthfully according to the teachings of Jesus Christ. John's words serve as a gentle reminder of the importance of maintaining truth and love within the Christian community, underscoring the belief that these two virtues are inextricably linked and central to the Christian way of life.1 The elder to the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth, and not only I but also all who know the truth, 2 because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever:
3 Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, in truth and love.
4 I was overjoyed to find some of your children walking in the truth, just as we have been commanded by the Father. 5 But now, dear lady, I ask you, not as though I were writing you a new commandment, but one we have had from the beginning, let us love one another. 6 And this is love, that we walk according to his commandments; this is the commandment just as you have heard it from the beginning—you must walk in it.
7 Many deceivers have gone out into the world, those who do not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh; any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist! 8 Be on your guard, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but may receive a full reward. 9 Everyone who does not abide in the teaching of Christ, but goes beyond it, does not have God; whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. 10 Do not receive into the house or welcome anyone who comes to you and does not bring this teaching; 11 for to welcome is to participate in the evil deeds of such a person.
12 Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink; instead I hope to come to you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.
13 The children of your elect sister send you their greetings.
Expository Commentary
Verse 1: This verse introduces the author, traditionally believed to be John the Apostle, as "the elder." The recipient of the letter is metaphorically referred to as "the elect lady and her children," which could symbolize a specific church and its members. The emphasis on love "in the truth" indicates a deep spiritual affection grounded in shared Christian beliefs.
Verse 2: Here, John explains the reason for his love: the enduring presence of truth within believers. This truth is not temporary but is characterized as eternal, emphasizing the permanence of God's word and the teachings of Christ.
Verse 3: John bestows a traditional Christian blessing, invoking grace, mercy, and peace. These blessings are said to come from both God the Father and Jesus Christ, affirming the Christian belief in the divinity of Christ. The coupling of "truth and love" in the blessing underlines their importance in the Christian life.
Verse 4: John expresses joy in finding some members of the church (the "children") adhering to the teachings they have received. This walking "in the truth" reflects obedience to God’s commandments, emphasizing adherence to the core tenets of the faith.
Verse 5: John emphasizes that the commandment to love one another is not new but is a fundamental Christian teaching from the beginning. This reiteration suggests the timeless and foundational nature of love in Christian doctrine.
Verse 6: Finally, John defines love in terms of obedience to God’s commandments. This verse underscores that true Christian love is active and demonstrated through a life lived in accordance with God's teachings. The phrase "from the beginning" reinforces the continuity and unchanging nature of this central message.
In summary, 2 John 1-6 is a compact yet profound passage where John emphasizes truth and love as inseparable and foundational components of Christian life. He affirms the eternal nature of truth, extends traditional Christian blessings, and rejoices in the adherence to God’s commandments, specifically the command to love one another. This section of the epistle serves as both an encouragement and a reminder to believers to remain steadfast in their faith and actions.
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
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
