The Daily Lectionary
With Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Monday, April 22, 2024
The Call to Leadership and Worship
Psalm 95; 1 Samuel 16:1-13; 1 Peter 5:1-5
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Easter 4)
Introduction
With Expository Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM
Monday, April 22, 2024
The Call to Leadership and Worship
Psalm 95; 1 Samuel 16:1-13; 1 Peter 5:1-5
(Revised Common Lectionary Year B)
(Easter 4)
Introduction
Psalm 95, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, and 1 Peter 5:1-5 collectively weave a profound narrative about the divine call to leadership and worship. Psalm 95 opens with a jubilant invitation to worship and bow down before the Lord, our Maker, emphasizing the importance of recognizing God’s sovereignty over creation. The passage from 1 Samuel narrates the anointing of David as king, illustrating God’s discerning eye for true leadership that looks beyond outward appearances and into the heart. In 1 Peter, the apostle advises the elders of the church to shepherd their flock with humility and willingness, highlighting the qualities essential for godly leadership. Together, these scriptures encourage believers to approach God with reverence and joy, while also understanding the sacred responsibility and humility required in leading others in accordance with God's will.
Psalm 95 invites believers to celebrate the majesty and power of God. It opens with a vibrant invitation to sing, shout joyfully, and come into God’s presence with thanksgiving, emphasizing the importance of music and gratitude in worship. The psalm highlights God's supremacy as the great King above all gods, acknowledging His creation and control over the depths of the earth and the mountain peaks. As the psalm progresses, it shifts from praise to a solemn warning, reminding worshippers of the importance of not hardening their hearts as the Israelites did at Meribah and Massah in the wilderness. This psalm skillfully combines elements of praise, worship, history, and caution, providing a comprehensive approach to understanding and relating to the divine.1 O come, let us sing to the LORD;
let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
2 Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;
let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!
3 For the LORD is a great God,
and a great King above all gods.
4 In his hand are the depths of the earth;
the heights of the mountains are his also.
5 The sea is his, for he made it,
and the dry land, which his hands have formed.
6 O come, let us worship and bow down,
let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!
7 For he is our God,
and we are the people of his pasture,
and the sheep of his hand.
O that today you would listen to his voice!
8 Do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah,
as on the day at Massah in the wilderness,
9 when your ancestors tested me,
and put me to the proof, though they had seen my work.
10 For forty years I loathed that generation
and said, “They are a people whose hearts go astray,
and they do not regard my ways.”
11 Therefore in my anger I swore,
“They shall not enter my rest.”
Expository Commentary
Verses 1-2 — Invitation to Worship: These opening verses serve as an enthusiastic invitation to worship. The reference to God as the "rock of our salvation" suggests a sense of stability and protection. The emphasis on singing and making a joyful noise indicates that worship is not just a solemn act but also a celebration.
Verses 3-5 — Proclaiming God’s Greatness: These verses acknowledge God’s sovereignty and creative power. By stating that God is above "all gods," the Psalmist asserts monotheism and the superiority of the Lord over any other entities worshiped. The reference to God's creation of the sea and land reflects the belief in His omnipotence and involvement in creating the physical world.
Verses 6-7a — A Call to Humble Worship: Here, the tone shifts to one of humility and reverence. The act of bowing and kneeling symbolizes submission and respect to God, the creator. The metaphor of the people as "sheep of his pasture" illustrates a relationship of dependence, guidance, and care between God and His people.
Verses 7b-11 — A Warning from History: The final section serves as a solemn warning, drawing from the historical event of the Israelites’ rebellion at Meribah and Massah. It cautions against hardening one's heart and rebelling against God, using the example of the ancestors who tested God despite witnessing His miracles. The reference to "forty years" signifies the period of wandering in the wilderness, a consequence of their disobedience. The phrase "They shall not enter my rest" alludes to the denial of entry into the Promised Land, symbolizing peace and fulfillment.
Psalm 95 thus combines elements of praise and worship with a historical lesson, encouraging faithfulness and obedience to God while remembering the consequences of disobedience.
1 Samuel 16:1-13 narrates a pivotal moment in the history of Israel, where God instructs the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king over Israel. This passage marks a significant transition in leadership, as God has rejected Saul for his disobedience. Samuel is led to Bethlehem, under the guise of making a sacrifice, to find the new king among the sons of Jesse. Despite initial appearances favoring Jesse's elder sons, God guides Samuel to choose David, the youngest son, a shepherd boy, highlighting a profound biblical theme: God's preference for the heart over outward appearances. This anointing of David as the future king, unbeknownst to King Saul, sets the stage for the ensuing complex relationship between Saul, David, and the unfolding destiny of Israel.16 1 The LORD said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul? I have rejected him from being king over Israel. Fill your horn with oil and set out; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.” 2 Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears of it, he will kill me.” And the LORD said, “Take a heifer with you, and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the LORD.’ 3 Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do; and you shall anoint for me the one whom I name to you.” 4 Samuel did what the LORD commanded, and came to Bethlehem. The elders of the city came to meet him trembling, and said, “Do you come peaceably?” 5 He said, “Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the LORD; sanctify yourselves and come with me to the sacrifice.” And he sanctified Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.
6 When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the LORD’s anointed is now before the LORD.” 7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the LORD does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.” 8 Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. He said, “Neither has the LORD chosen this one.” 9 Then Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, “Neither has the LORD chosen this one.” 10 Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel, and Samuel said to Jesse, “The LORD has not chosen any of these.” 11 Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here.” 12 He sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and had beautiful eyes, and was handsome. The LORD said, “Rise and anoint him; for this is the one.” 13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the presence of his brothers; and the spirit of the LORD came mightily upon David from that day forward. Samuel then set out and went to Ramah.
Expository Commentary
Verse 1: God commands Samuel to stop mourning over Saul, as He has rejected Saul from being king. God directs Samuel to Jesse of Bethlehem, revealing that a new king will be chosen from his sons. This verse demonstrates God’s proactive move in guiding Israel’s leadership, and it also indicates a divine plan that transcends human judgments.
Verse 2: Samuel fears that Saul might kill him if he knows about the anointing. God provides a solution, instructing Samuel to go under the pretext of offering a sacrifice. This verse illustrates the danger and political complexity of the task, as well as God's guidance in navigating these challenges.
Verse 3: God instructs Samuel to invite Jesse to the sacrifice, indicating He will show Samuel what to do. This verse emphasizes God’s sovereignty and the need for Samuel's obedience and faith.
Verse 4-5: Samuel does as instructed. The elders of Bethlehem fear his coming, but Samuel assures them it's a peaceful visit for a holy sacrifice. This part reflects Samuel’s high status and the fear associated with his prophetic role, but also his ability to bring peace and sanctity.
Verse 6-7: When Samuel sees Jesse's eldest son, Eliab, he mistakenly thinks Eliab must be the chosen one based on his appearance. God corrects Samuel, emphasizing that He looks at the heart rather than outward appearance. This is a crucial teaching in the Bible, highlighting that God’s choices and values often differ from human judgments.
Verses 8-10: Jesse presents seven of his sons, but God rejects each one. This sequence underlines the idea that God’s chosen leader might not be who people expect based on worldly standards or appearances.
Verse 11: All of Jesse's present sons are rejected, and Samuel asks if these are all his children. Jesse mentions his youngest son, David, who is tending the sheep. Samuel insists on seeing him, which points to the thoroughness of Samuel’s task and the unexpected nature of God’s choice.
Verse 12: David is brought in, described as ruddy, with beautiful eyes and handsome. God commands Samuel to anoint him, for he is the one. This verse contrasts with earlier ones, as David’s appearance is noted, yet it is his heart that qualifies him.
Verse 13: Samuel anoints David in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of the Lord powerfully comes upon David from that day forward. This moment signifies the divine appointment and empowerment of David, setting in motion his future role as king and central figure in Israel's history.
This passage is rich in themes such as divine sovereignty, the significance of inner qualities over outward appearance, and the unpredictable nature of God's choices. It marks the beginning of David’s rise to prominence and the complexities that will unfold in his relationship with Saul and his journey towards kingship.
In the first five verses of the fifth chapter of the First Epistle of Peter, the apostle Peter addresses church leaders and young members in a pastoral and guiding tone. This passage focuses on the responsibilities and attitudes expected of elders within the Christian community. Peter, asserting his own status as both a witness to Christ's sufferings and a participant in the glory to be revealed, urges the elders to shepherd God's flock with willingness, eagerness, and humility, not for personal gain or exercising dominion over those in their care. The passage then shifts to address the younger members, encouraging them to be subject to the elders and to clothe themselves with humility in their relationships with one another. Central to this section is the theme of humble service and the proper exercise of authority within the Christian community, reflecting a deep understanding of leadership as a form of servanthood under God.5 1 Now as an elder myself and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as one who shares in the glory to be revealed, I exhort the elders among you 2 to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it—not for sordid gain but eagerly. 3 Do not lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock. 4 And when the chief shepherd appears, you will win the crown of glory that never fades away. 5 In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you must clothe yourselves with humility in your dealings with one another, for
“God opposes the proud,
but gives grace to the humble.”
Expository Commentary
Verse 1: Peter begins by establishing his authority and credibility. As an "elder" and "witness of the sufferings of Christ," he speaks from experience, both in his role within the early church and as one who has personally witnessed Christ's life and sacrifice. His reference to sharing in "the glory to be revealed" indicates a future hope tied to Christ’s return. Thus, Peter’s exhortation to the other elders comes with the weight of personal experience and eschatological hope.
Verse 2: This verse outlines how elders should carry out their duties. "Tending the flock" suggests a pastoral, caring approach to leadership, emphasizing guidance and protection. Peter encourages doing this "not under compulsion but willingly," indicating that genuine service is voluntary, not forced or merely obligatory. He contrasts serving for "sordid gain" (selfish, materialistic motives) with serving "eagerly" (with enthusiasm and genuine care), aligning the latter with God’s will.
Verse 3: Here, Peter addresses the manner in which authority should be exercised. "Do not lord it over" warns against authoritarian or domineering leadership. Instead, elders are to be "examples to the flock," leading by demonstration of character and godly living. This reflects Jesus’ teachings on servant leadership (as in Mark 10:42-45) and sets a high standard for leaders in the community.
Verse 4: Peter introduces an eschatological incentive for faithful leadership. The "chief Shepherd" refers to Christ, who will ultimately evaluate the service of the elders. The promise of a "crown of glory that never fades away" serves as a metaphor for eternal reward, contrasting earthly, temporary accolades with the everlasting honor given by Christ.
Verse 5: Shifting focus, Peter addresses the younger members, urging them to respect and follow the elders. This respect for authority is a cornerstone of communal harmony. However, he concludes with a universal call to "clothe yourselves with humility," citing a wisdom principle that God favors the humble but resists the proud. This reflects a theme common in Scripture (e.g., Proverbs 3:34) and underscores the value of humility in all relationships within the Christian community.
In 1 Peter 5:1-5, Peter offers profound guidance for church leadership and community dynamics, emphasizing humility, willing service, and the model of Christ as the ultimate Shepherd. The passage intertwines practical advice for church governance with deeper theological insights, highlighting the responsibilities of leaders and members alike in building a community reflective of Christ’s teachings.
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
