Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Mark, 9:14–29 (ESV):

Jesus Heals a Boy with an Unclean Spirit

And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed and ran up to him and greeted him. And he asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” And someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a spirit that makes him mute. And whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” And they brought the boy to him. And when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

9:14–29 Jesus descends from the transfiguration and meets a defiant demon, an anxious father, an astonished crowd, and despairing disciples. Despair threatens to overwhelm our faith too by pointing out how we fail to change or improve, suggesting that God neither cares for us nor has power to help. However, Jesus does not linger in the glory of the transfiguration, but graciously descends to a world of despair and doubt so that He might deliver us. • Lord, thank You for Your compassion, which brings You to our world of pain and dismay. Give us faith to overcome our doubts, and help us believe that all things are possible with You. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

9:14 scribes arguing. See note, 1:22: «Jesus never used the prophetic formula “thus says the LORD.” In contrast to the scribes, whose authority derived from the teachings they received from their forefathers, Jesus spoke as one uniquely authorized by His Father in heaven.»

9:17 Teacher. See note, Mt 8:19: “Gk didaskalos corresponds to Hbr rabbi. Strangers and critics (e.g., scribes) used this term when addressing Jesus to show they did not regard Him as an authority (cf 12:38). Jesus’ disciples seldom used this term (cf vv 2, 6).” a spirit that makes him mute. Other spirits had been vocal (cf 1:24; 5:7).

9:18 His condition resembled an epileptic seizure, causing recurring convulsions and loss of consciousness, but was caused by demon possession. Cf Mt 17:15. Your disciples. See note, Mt 17:16: “Perhaps took place when Jesus was on the mountain (Mt 17:1). Their failure to heal the boy while Jesus was transfigured would emphasize the contrast between heavenly glory and the grip the devil still has on earthly affairs.”

9:19 them. The father, disciples, and the gathering crowd. faithless generation. The father and crowd had likely despaired while Jesus was absent on the mount. Note the amazement in v 15 (cf 6:6; Lk 24:32, 41). how long … How long. See note, Mt 17:17: “faithless and twisted generation. Jesus lumped His disciples with all those whom He had previously denounced with similar words (12:39, 45; 16:4). how long. He would not be with them much longer. The disciples’ lack of faith prompted Jesus to ask these rhetorical questions, which expressed His disappointment.”

9:21 Jesus showed interest in the boy, who was more to Jesus than a subject for a demonstration of His power.

9:22 compassion. See note, Lk 7:13: «Gk splagchnizomai. Lit, “his gut moved.” Jesus experienced the same gut reaction as we sometimes do in sad situations.»

9:23 The power and love of God are constant (Ps 62:11–12). Faith receives the gifts God had prepared (cf 11:22–24; Jas 1:5–8).

9:24 The father cried out with faith but struggled with his son’s burden and the failure of the disciples (cf Rm 7). “Worthiness does not depend on the greatness or smallness, the weakness or strength of faith. Instead, it depends on Christ’s merit, which the distressed father of little faith [Mark 9:24] enjoyed as well as Abraham, Paul, and others who have a joyful and strong faith” (FC SD VII 71).

9:25–26 The mute spirit cried out and left the healed boy, who appeared to be dead.

9:25 See note, Mt 17:18: «The disciples cast out demons (cf Mt 6:13), but they could not overcome this one (cf Mt 17:19). Jesus, who had just heard the voice of His Father, readily conquered this mute demon. “[The devil] often breaks men’s necks or drives them to insanity, drowns some, and moves many to commit suicide and to many other terrible disasters [e.g., Mark 9:17–22]. So there is nothing for us to do upon earth but to pray against this archenemy without stopping. For unless God preserved us, we would not be safe from this enemy even for an hour” (LC III 115–16).»

9:28 the house. Jesus often gathered the disciples by themselves after a significant event (1:29; 4:10; 4:34; 9:33). Why could we not. See note, Mt 17:19: “They had previously been successful in casting out demons (Mt 10:8).”

9:29 There are different types of demons with different powers. The disciples’ earlier success in exorcism (6:13) had either not prepared them for this case or made them overconfident in their own work.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Mark, 7:31–37 (ESV):

Jesus Heals a Deaf Man

Then he returned from the region of Tyre and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had a speech impediment, and they begged him to lay his hand on him. And taking him aside from the crowd privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and after spitting touched his tongue. And looking up to heaven, he sighed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” And his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. And Jesus charged them to tell no one. But the more he charged them, the more zealously they proclaimed it. And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

7:31–37 Jesus heals another person in a Gentile region, further emphasizing His love for every race and kind of people. This serves as yet one more example of why we need to avoid the temptation to narrow the scope of the mission and to ignore opportunities to reach out to those who are different than ourselves. Jesus’ healing of this man, immediately after He restored the daughter of the Syrophoenician woman, underscores that He desires to love, cleanse, and heal all people. • Lord, You have done everything well. Help us also to see the depths of Your mercy and grace, that we understand them as gifts meant for all. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

7:31 Decapolis. Lit, “10 cities”; this region lay southeast of the Sea of Galilee.

7:32 deaf and had a speech impediment. Because those unable to hear have difficulty learning to speak correctly, it is probable that this man had been handicapped from birth.

7:33 privately. As will become clearer in v 36, this is another example of Jesus commanding silence in order to avoid misunderstanding about His identity. touched. Here, touch made communication easier. Jesus tended to use touch in His healings (cf 1:31, 41; 5:28–29, 41; 6:56; 8:25).

7:34–35 sighed. Physical sign of emotion. Ephphatha. Aram word was later used in the Church’s baptismal liturgies in order to emphasize the Spirit’s power to open ears to the Gospel. spoke plainly. Once the man’s ears were healed, he was also able to speak clearly. He immediately put this gift to work in praise.

7:36 tell no one. Throughout the Gospel of Mark, Jesus discourages people and unclean spirits from speaking about Him and His kingdom (e.g., 1:23–25; 1:44; 3:11–12; 7:36–37; 8:26, 30; 9:9–10). Critical scholars read this feature as a device early Christians added to the story of Jesus’ life. They argue that Jesus never really called Himself the Son of God or Christ but that these beliefs about Him were added later to let people in on the secret. Such an interpretation conflicts with Mark’s overall goal and account (see “Jesus as the Son of God,” above). It is more likely that Jesus exercises His authority to guide the spread of His popularity, which had brought Him into conflict with political and religious authorities. E.g., outside the jurisdiction of Jesus’ main opponents, He actually encourages a man to proclaim His miracles (5:19–20).

7:37 done all things well. Summarizes all of Jesus’ works. The Pharisees will demand more signs (8:11–12). The crowds were awed and remained positive toward Jesus but, like the disciples, did not truly understand who Jesus is.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to Mark, 7:14–23 (ESV):

What Defiles a Person

And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.” And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?” (Thus he declared all foods clean.) And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

7:14–23 Jesus teaches that people are not defiled by food or other things entering the body from the outside, but rather by their own evil inclinations and sinful behaviors. This teaching exposes the uselessness of our own excuse-making and dismisses our claims that other people and things are to blame for our shortcomings and failures. However, Jesus does not merely condemn; He also sets free. Through His promises we are liberated from sin and reconciled to God. • Lord, renew us each day with clean hearts. By Your Spirit, give us joyous words, generous spirits, and behaviors that reflect Your glory. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

7:14–23 Jesus does not simply refute and criticize the Pharisees. He also teaches the people the correct understanding of God’s will and human nature.

7:15 Jesus turns the pharisaical conception of impurity upside down (see note, v 20).

7:17 left the people. Jesus provided additional, private teaching for the disciples, away from the crowds (cf 4:10, 34).

7:18 without understanding? See note, 6:52: «did not understand about the loaves. Despite the unmistakable ways Jesus had just displayed His divine nature and power, the disciples somehow remain in the dark. hearts were hardened. It is somewhat surprising that Jesus describes the disciples and His opponents in the same way (cf 10:5; 16:14). The disciples’ lack of comprehension will only worsen in the coming chapters (e.g. 9:32; 10:32). Jesus’ predictions of His death will prove most difficult for them to grasp.»

7:19 enters not his heart. Cf v 15. Ritually impure food does not touch the heart and so cannot contaminate it. all foods clean. Jesus’ teaching will affect the future Christian mission. Simply put, Gentiles will not need to observe Jewish dietary laws. The question of food laws caused much controversy in the first-century Church. Cf Ac 15:1–35; Rm 14:1–3; 1Co 8:7–13.

7:20 Jesus clarifies that what does indeed defile is not what enters from the outside, but rather what lurks in the hearts of fallen people.

7:21–22 Beginning with sexual immorality, 12 kinds of evil thoughts and actions are combined in a dreadful list of vices. The first six are in the plural form and describe behaviors; the last six are in the singular and have more to do with attitudes. These 12 vices leave no doubt as to the wretched impurity of the human spirit. heart. See note, Mt 15:19: «Spiritual inner being of a person (6:21). The mouth speaks what is in the heart (12:34). The heart is the moving force that leads a person to commit the other sins that Jesus mentioned. “Original sin is born in us because of the sinful seed and is a source of all other actual sins, such as wicked thoughts, words, and works” (FC Ep I 21).»

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Gospel According to Mark, 7:1–13 (ESV):

Traditions and Commandments

Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly, holding to the tradition of the elders, and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.) And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, “‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’ You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)—then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

7:1–13 Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for being overly concerned with man-made observances while failing to fulfill God’s Commandments. Such hypocrisy still abounds, as most people worry more about human opinions than what God thinks. Given our own failures in this regard, it is a good thing that the Lord not only commands in His Word, but also graciously forgives and promises goodness. • Lord, cleanse us each day from our sins. We thank You that Jesus was made a fragrant, sacrificial offering for us. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

7:1 Pharisees … scribes. In contrast to the sincerity of the throngs in Gennesaret, Jesus’ adversaries renew hostilities. They were sticklers for the observance of detailed interpretations of the law. See notes, 2:18: «Pharisees. Originally, the name of this party meant “the separate ones.” What separated the Pharisees from other Jews was their rigorous interpretations and strict observance of the Jewish Law.»; Mt 2:4: “scribes. Students of God’s Word who interpreted and taught the Scriptures.” from Jerusalem. See note, Mt 15:1: “Though Pharisees and scribes are mentioned together in Mt 5:20 and Mt 12:38, this sounds like an official inquiry from temple headquarters.”

7:2 hands … unwashed. Not so much an issue of hygiene, but of ritual observance.

7:3–4 Cf Ex 30:17–21; Lv 22:4–7 for laws intended for priests. This lengthy aside explains that the Pharisees required ritual washings, not only of those returning from the market, but also of different cooking utensils and even furniture. wash. Gk baptizo; same term used when referring to Christian Baptism. Though this verb may denote immersion, it also describes washings by pouring or sprinkling. Did: “Baptize into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, in living water. But if you have not living water, baptize into other water; and if you cannot in cold, in warm. But if you have not either, pour out water thrice upon the head into the name of Father and Son and Holy Spirit” (ANF 7:379). This shows the flexibility of earliest Christian practice as it adapted from the customs of Judaism. Archaeologists have discovered ritual washing pools or tanks (Hbr miqwaoth) that held c 60 gallons of water, which would have been running or “living” (cf Jn 4:10–11; 7:37–38) according to rabbinic custom. However, see notes, Ezk 36:25: «sprinkle clean water on you. Such consecration was used for the priests and Levites of the old covenant (cf Ex 29:4; Lv 16:4, 24; Nu 8:6–7; 19). If the exiles were to be worthy bearers of God’s promises, He must not only give them back their homeland but also cleanse them. Yet this is no ordinary washing, as v 26 demonstrates. sprinkle. Term most often used with the blood of the atonement and covenant (Ex 24:8; Lv 1:5, 11; 3:2, 8, 13; cf Heb 12:24; 1Pt 1:1–2). Cypr: “The divine benefits can in no respect be mutilated and weakened [by the mode of sprinkling].… For in the sacrament of salvation the contagion of sins is not in such wise washed away, as the filth of the skin” (ANF 5:400–401).»; Heb 10:22: «sprinkled clean from an evil conscience. Proclamation of Christ’s cleansing sacrifice relieves and strengthens our conscience so that we see ourselves and the certainty of God’s mercy clearly. Cf 1Pt 1:18–19; see notes, Ezk 36:22–38; 36:25. “Where the heart is not in a right relationship with God, or cannot take such confidence, it will not dare to pray anymore. Such a confident and joyful heart can spring from nothing else than the certain knowledge of the forgiveness of sin” (LC III 92). our bodies washed with pure water. By Baptism (Eph 5:26; Ti 3:5). Luth: “This old man consists of error, concupiscence, wrath, fear, apprehension, despair, evil conscience, horror of death, etc. Those are characteristics of the old, carnal man. They diminish, however, in the new man, but they are not extinguished until he himself is extinguished by death.… Rather the process of removal has begun, and as a person increases in spiritual health these evils are removed. This spiritual health is nothing more than faith in or love in Christ” (AE 31:124).» See also Mishnah Teharot. dining couches. Cushions.

7:5 The Pharisees and scribes expected the disciples and Jesus to follow their ritual practices, esp those involving washings.

7:6–7 Jesus quotes Is to rebuke the hypocrisy of His pharisaical accusers. This passage contrasts insincere lip service with heartfelt obedience. Isaiah. See note, 1:2–3: “Because he was Israel’s preeminent prophet, only his name need be mentioned here. He is the only prophet quoted in Mk (cf 7:6–7).”

7:8 Jesus’ rebuke is aimed particularly at the Pharisees’ elevation of human tradition above divine commandment.

7:9–13 Jesus gives a concrete example of the Pharisees’ hypocritical piety: He describes them as failing to obey the Fourth Commandment (“Honor your father and your mother”) because they consider it more important to give special offerings than to support elderly parents. Such piety is ultimately self-serving and a sham. Corban. An offering above and beyond the tithes required by Mosaic Law.

7:13 making void the word of God. A mere appearance of piety does not please God. He prefers that people simply obey His Commandments.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel According to John, 6:51–69 (ESV):

I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”

The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate, and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” Jesus said these things in the synagogue, as he taught at Capernaum.

The Words of Eternal Life

When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you who do not believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”

After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:22–59 Unlike the perishable manna God gave to Israel through Moses, Jesus comes down from heaven as the true bread to give life to all who believe in Him. Contrary to popular notions, no one “chooses” to believe in Christ; the initiative belongs entirely to God through His Word (v 44; cf 14:6). Those united by faith to Christ will be raised up on the Last Day to enjoy eternal communion with the Father. • O God, draw me ever closer to You through Your Word and Sacraments. Amen.

6:60–71 Faced with Jesus’ true identity and the necessity of faith in Him, many stop following, and even one of the Twelve aligns himself with Satan against Jesus. Nevertheless, Jesus’ words bring life; they are the means the Father uses to draw people to Himself. • O Lord, let me always say as Peter did, “You have the words of eternal life.” Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:51–58 Not an obvious reference to the Lord’s Supper: the words of institution are not recorded, no wine is present, Jesus speaks of “flesh” and not “body,” and the crowd is generally hostile and unbelieving. However, Jn records many veiled references to Jesus’ future service, such as His work on the cross (1:50; 2:4, 19–22; 4:32; 6:62; 12:32). Whereas the other Gospel writers collected Jesus’ parables, John collected Jesus’ enigmatic, or riddlelike, sayings. His wording anticipates the blessings of the Sacrament.

6:51 living bread. Life-giving bread; synonymous with “bread of life.” Cf 1:4; 5:26. My flesh. See note, 1:14: «Word became flesh. God’s Word was embodied. Jn elsewhere refers to Jesus’ humanity (4:6; 11:35; 19:28). “The Word, that is, the Son of God [John 1:14], assumed the human nature in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. So there are two natures—the divine and the human—inseparably joined in one person. There is one Christ, true God and true man” (AC III 1–2). “The divine essence is not changed into the human nature. But the two natures, unchanged, are personally united” (FC SD VII 36).» The incarnate Word offered Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world (1:29). “The Sacrament was instituted to comfort terrified minds. This happens when they believe that Christ’s flesh is given as food for the life of the world” (Ap XXII 10).

6:52 disputed. Heated argument erupted over Jesus’ language in v 51, which the audience found offensive.

6:53 Graphic description of faith, the topic under discussion (v 47).

6:54 “There is a twofold eating of Christ’s flesh. One is spiritual, which Christ describes especially in John 6:54. This ‘eating’ happens in no other way than with the Spirit and faith, in preaching and meditation on the Gospel, as well as in the Lord’s Supper” (FC SD VII 61).

6:55 Only through faith in Christ crucified do people have what they really need for eternal life, a life with God that earthly food and drink cannot provide. “His flesh is a truly life-giving food and His blood a truly life-giving drink” (FC SD VIII 76).

6:56 abides. Major theme in Jn, defining the relationship not only of persons in the Trinity (1:32–33; 14:10; 15:10), but also between believers and Christ (5:38; 8:31; 15:7, 9–10). Bern: “I wish to follow with all my strength the lowly Jesus; I wish Him, who loved me and gave Himself for me, to embrace me with the arms of His love, which suffered in my stead; but I must also feed on the Paschal Lamb, for unless I eat His Flesh and drink His Blood I have no life in me. It is one thing to follow Jesus, another to hold Him, another to feed on Him. To follow Him is a life-giving purpose; to hold and embrace Him a solemn joy; to feed on Him a blissful life” (SLSB, pp 292–93).

6:57 I live because of the Father. The Son, begotten of the Father from eternity (see Nicene Creed), is one with the Father (10:30).

6:59 synagogue. See p 1557: “Community building where Jews gathered to read the Scriptures, study, and pray. Such gathering places were found throughout the Mediterranean world, since they were typically established wherever 10 Jewish heads of household were present. The NT is one of the most important early witnesses to synagogue activity. The earliest Christian congregations were synagogues of Jews who believed Jesus was the promised Messiah.” Capernaum. See note, Mt 4:13: “Capernaum. Modern Tel Hum. Fishing village and important garrison on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee. Home of Peter (8:14) and also the town where Matthew collected taxes (9:9). Capernaum served as Jesus’ base of operations. Zebulun and Naphtali. Two of Israel’s 12 tribes originally occupied this territory west of the Sea of Galilee.”

6:60 disciples. Wider group of followers than the Twelve.

6:62 ascending to where He was before? Jesus’ cross, resurrection, and ascension seen together (cf 3:13–15).

6:63 Spirit. Just as fleshly bodies need spirit to have life, believers need the Holy Spirit to make them alive. The Spirit is given through Jesus’ words. the flesh is no help at all. Note that Jesus does not say “My flesh,” as in vv 51, 54–56. Jesus contrasted the sinful nature (“flesh”) with the spiritual nature to show that eternal life comes only from the Holy Spirit. The sinful flesh, which lusts for bread rather than the things of God (v 26), cannot help in spiritual matters. words … are spirit and life. The Holy Spirit, proceeding eternally from the Father and the Son (see notes, 14:26; 15:26), uses the Word of God to create faith and life in hearers. See note, Rm 10:17: «hearing. NT meanings include the act of hearing, the ear, or the message heard. The message is the meaning here. “Although the work is done and the forgiveness of sins is secured by the cross [John 19:30], it cannot come to us in any other way than through the Word” (LC V 31). “It is God’s will that His Word should be heard and that a person’s ears should not be closed (Psalm 95:8). With this Word the Holy Spirit is present and opens hearts, so that people (like Lydia in Acts 16:14) pay attention to it and are converted only through the Holy Spirit’s grace and power, who alone does the work of converting a person” (FC Ep II 5). word of Christ. The spoken word of the Gospel—the content being Christ—is a means by which God creates faith. “Repentance consists of two parts. One part is contrition, that is, terrors striking the conscience through the knowledge of sin. The other part is faith, which is born of the Gospel [Romans 10:17] or the Absolution and believes that for Christ’s sake, sins are forgiven. It comforts the conscience and delivers it from terror. Then good works are bound to follow, which are the fruit of repentance” (AC XII 3–6).»

6:64 those. Lit, “some who.” betray Him. Even from the time Judas joined the disciples, Jesus knew Judas would betray Him. This does not mean Judas was predestined for damnation.

6:65 come to Me. Expression used for faith five times in ch 6 (vv 35, 37, 44, 45, 65). Cf Eph 2:8–9.

6:68 words of eternal life. Cf v 63.

6:69 Holy One. Further description of Jesus’ identity as Messiah (cf Ac 3:14; 4:27, 30; 1Jn 2:20). Title used once by demons (Lk 4:34).

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel according to John, 6:35–51 (ESV):

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

So the Jews grumbled about him, because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” They said, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” Jesus answered them, “Do not grumble among yourselves. No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. It is written in the Prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me—not that anyone has seen the Father except he who is from God; he has seen the Father. Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:22–59 Unlike the perishable manna God gave to Israel through Moses, Jesus comes down from heaven as the true bread to give life to all who believe in Him. Contrary to popular notions, no one “chooses” to believe in Christ; the initiative belongs entirely to God through His Word (v 44; cf 14:6). Those united by faith to Christ will be raised up on the Last Day to enjoy eternal communion with the Father. • O God, draw me ever closer to You through Your Word and Sacraments. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:35 I am. Jesus clearly identified Himself as the source of real life, which lasts forever. See pp 1784–85: «John records various times when Christ described Himself as “I am” followed with a statement about bread. Christ refers to Himself as “the bread of life” (6:35, 48). He is “the bread that came down from heaven” (6:41) and “the living bread” (6:51). The Jews were stunned. “How can this man give us His flesh to eat?” Their grumbling leads Christ to add that He is “the bread that came down from heaven” (6:4). In speaking these words, Christ drew a parallel between His life and the manna God provided during the exodus. Christ taught the Pharisees: “In the desert, God provided manna. This manna kept your ancestors alive; however, because of original sin, they eventually died. Like the manna God provided, I came from heaven, but I give eternal life” (6:32–33, paraphrase; cf vv 48–51; Ps 78:23–33). According to John, Christ’s teaching on the bread of life was a pivotal point in His ministry. Because of Christ’s words about eating and drinking His flesh and blood, many disciples “no longer walked with Him” (Jn 6:66). They found His teachings too difficult. Yes, just as food is necessary for earthly life, Christ is necessary for life eternal.»

6:37 All. Those who believe. Father gives … will come to Me. No one has the willpower to choose to believe in Jesus or come to God. Faith comes to the believer as a gift from God, just as physical life comes as a gift. See note, v 44.

6:39 lose nothing. Salvation of the believer is secure in Christ, who lets none of His own slip through His fingers (cf 1Pt 1:3–5).

6:40 looks. Seeing Jesus with eyes of faith. “The chief worship of the Gospel is to desire to receive the forgiveness of sins, grace, and righteousness” (Ap V 189). raise him up on the last day. Cf 5:28–29.

6:41–42 Jesus’ opponents thought they knew His background and parentage (cf Mt 13:53–58). Thus, any implication that He was more than of human origin was grounds for complaint on their part.

6:41 grumbled. Lit, “were grumbling.” An allusion to the Israelites’ grumbling in the wilderness (cf Ex 15:24).

6:44 come to Me. See note, v 37. draws. God alone has the power to make the spiritually dead alive (cf 5:25–26). “To ‘have’ God, you can easily see, is not to take hold of Him with our hands or to put Him in a bag ‹like money› or to lock Him in a chest ‹like silver vessels›. Instead, to ‘have’ Him means that the heart takes hold of Him and clings to Him. To cling to Him with the heart is nothing else than to trust in Him entirely. For this reason God wishes to turn us away from everything else that exists outside of Him and to draw us to Himself” (LC I 13–15).

6:45 Prophets. One of the major divisions of the Hbr Scriptures (cf Lk 24:27; Ac 26:22). all be taught by God. From a section in Is, where the prophet foretells Zion’s future glory when the Messiah will rule His people.

6:46 Only through Jesus can human beings know the Father (cf 14:6–9).

6:47 See note, 3:16: «“Whoever believes in [the Son of God, be it with a strong or with a weak faith,] may have eternal life. [John 3:15] Worthiness does not depend on the greatness or smallness, the weakness or strength of faith. Instead, it depends on Christ’s merit” (FC SD VII 70–71). Luth: “Look at the words, I beseech you, to determine how and of whom He is speaking.… No one is here excluded. God’s Son was given for all. All should believe, and all who do believe should not perish, etc. Take hold of your own nose, I beseech you, to determine whether you are not a human being (that is, part of the world) and, like any other man, [you] belong to the number of those comprised in the word ‘all’ ” (WLS § 1859).»

6:48 bread of life. See note, v 51.

6:51–58 Not an obvious reference to the Lord’s Supper: the words of institution are not recorded, no wine is present, Jesus speaks of “flesh” and not “body,” and the crowd is generally hostile and unbelieving. However, Jn records many veiled references to Jesus’ future service, such as His work on the cross (1:50; 2:4, 19–22; 4:32; 6:62; 12:32). Whereas the other Gospel writers collected Jesus’ parables, John collected Jesus’ enigmatic, or riddlelike, sayings. His wording anticipates the blessings of the Sacrament.

6:51 living bread. Life-giving bread; synonymous with “bread of life.” Cf 1:4; 5:26. My flesh. See note, 1:14: «God’s Word was embodied. Jn elsewhere refers to Jesus’ humanity (4:6; 11:35; 19:28). “The Word, that is, the Son of God [John 1:14], assumed the human nature in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary. So there are two natures—the divine and the human—inseparably joined in one person. There is one Christ, true God and true man” (AC III 1–2). “The divine essence is not changed into the human nature. But the two natures, unchanged, are personally united” (FC SD VII 36).» The incarnate Word offered Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of the world (1:29). “The Sacrament was instituted to comfort terrified minds. This happens when they believe that Christ’s flesh is given as food for the life of the world” (Ap XXII 10).

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel according to John, 6:22–35 (ESV):

I Am the Bread of Life

On the next day the crowd that remained on the other side of the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone. Other boats from Tiberias came near the place where they had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus.

When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.” Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” So they said to him, “Then what sign do you do, that we may see and believe you? What work do you perform? Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” Jesus then said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.”

Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:22–59 Unlike the perishable manna God gave to Israel through Moses, Jesus comes down from heaven as the true bread to give life to all who believe in Him. Contrary to popular notions, no one “chooses” to believe in Christ; the initiative belongs entirely to God through His Word (v 44; cf 14:6). Those united by faith to Christ will be raised up on the Last Day to enjoy eternal communion with the Father. • O God, draw me ever closer to You through Your Word and Sacraments. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:22 Assessing the situation, the crowd could not figure out how Jesus could have crossed the sea.

6:23 Tiberias. Large Gk city on the Sea of Galilee, mentioned only in Jn (6:1; 21:1). Herod Antipas built it in AD 16–22 and named it in honor of the reigning Roman emperor.

6:24 Capernaum. See note, Mt 4:13: “Modern Tel Hum. Fishing village and important garrison on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee. Home of Peter (Mt 8:14) and also the town where Matthew collected taxes (Mt 9:9). Capernaum served as Jesus’ base of operations.”

6:26 Faith in Jesus was the purpose of all the signs (20:30–31). At the miraculous feeding, the crowds saw only the gift, not the Giver.

6:27 labor. See note, v 29. food. Jesus posed an absolute contrast between physical and spiritual “food” without denying the importance of the physical. set His seal. See note, Jer 32:10: «sealed. Seals were lumps of clay stamped with a signet ring or cylinder that impressed the clay with a person’s official insignia. They were placed over the strings that bound a folded document, which kept it closed. Nearly 400 clay seals (bullae) have been discovered in Israel, many from the “house of Bullae” in Jerusalem, which was likely burned when the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem in 587 BC. The fire hardened and preserved these seals. Two seals have been discovered that name Baruch the son of Neriah the scribe (Jer 32:12), which could have come from Jeremiah’s secretary.»

6:29 work of God, that you believe. The crowd asked about righteous “works” (v 28), but Jesus singled out one necessary work: faith in Him, which is God’s gift.

6:31 The crowd quoted the OT to support their demand that Jesus perform a miracle like Moses had done, which they assumed was greater than Jesus’ signs.

6:32 Jesus corrected the crowd on two points: manna came from God, not Moses (Ex 16:4, 15); and Moses’ bread was not the “true bread from heaven.” Only the Father gives that bread.

6:35 I am. Jesus clearly identified Himself as the source of real life, which lasts forever.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Gospel according to Mark, 6:45–56 (ESV):

Jesus Walks on the Water

Immediately he made his disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. And after he had taken leave of them, he went up on the mountain to pray. And when evening came, the boat was out on the sea, and he was alone on the land. And he saw that they were making headway painfully, for the wind was against them. And about the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the sea they thought it was a ghost, and cried out, for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid.” And he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. And they were utterly astounded, for they did not understand about the loaves, but their hearts were hardened.

Jesus Heals the Sick in Gennesaret

When they had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, the people immediately recognized him and ran about the whole region and began to bring the sick people on their beds to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he came, in villages, cities, or countryside, they laid the sick in the marketplaces and implored him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

6:45–52 Demonstrating mastery over the winds and waves for a second time, Jesus calms another storm. Even more amazing, however, is the fact that Jesus’ disciples still do not recognize His divine nature. Too often, our eyes are also blind and our hearts are just as hard. It is a good thing, therefore, that He who walked on the water that night also died in Calvary’s darkness to save us from our hard-heartedness. • Lord, save us when we are overcome by life’s storms and our hearts are darkened by unbelief. Calm the tempest, open our eyes, and create within us the faith to recognize You. Amen.

6:53–56 Not long after Jesus’ disciples failed to recognize an unmistakable display of His divinity, the people of Gennesaret show great faith by receiving Jesus and clamoring for His healing power. Even today, those new to the faith often exhibit more conviction than those who have known Jesus for a long time. It is good news, then, that Jesus remains devoted to us even when our commitment wavers or fails. His resolve to suffer and die for all is ample proof of that. • Lord, give us the zeal of the Gennesaret believers. May we ever press toward You, resolute in our conviction that You can heal and restore us. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:45 Jesus obliged the disciples to embark for the other shore. This shows that Jesus was responsible for the disciples’ all-night struggle against the wind. Note further that this was the second time in a day that Jesus commanded the disciples to do something difficult or even impossible (cf v 37).

6:46 on the mountain to pray. See note, 1:35: “The Gospels repeatedly depict Jesus spending time alone in prayer (cf 6:46; Lk 5:16; 6:12).”

6:47 out on the sea. C 3–4 mi (cf Jn 6:19).

6:48 fourth watch. From 3 to 6 a.m. The disciples had been in the boat for a long time, fighting with the wind for almost the whole night. walking on the sea. Jesus comes to reveal Himself as the Lord of all creation. pass by them. In the OT, God passed by Moses (Ex 33:22; 34:6) and Elijah (1Ki 19:11–13).

6:49–50 ghost. Gk phantasma. Appears only here and in Mt 14:26. See note, Mk 5:2: “In folk piety, graveyards were believed to be the haunts of ghosts and disembodied spirits.” The disciples are not far from the truth as they assume that the one walking on the water is more than a mere mortal, for Jesus’ divinity is clearly visible. Do not be afraid. This command will be echoed at another important moment of revelation—at the empty tomb (16:6).

6:51 wind ceased. See note, 4:39: “Remarkable because it was instantaneous and complete.”

6:52 did not understand about the loaves. Despite the unmistakable ways Jesus had just displayed His divine nature and power, the disciples somehow remain in the dark. hearts were hardened. It is somewhat surprising that Jesus describes the disciples and His opponents in the same way (cf 10:5; 16:14). The disciples’ lack of comprehension will only worsen in the coming chapters (e.g. 9:32; 10:32). Jesus’ predictions of His death will prove most difficult for them to grasp.

6:53 Gennesaret. Town on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, between Capernaum and Tiberius.

6:54 recognized Him. Note how starkly this picture contrasts with the depiction of the disciples in vv 50–51. The Twelve’s hardened hearts had just failed to see Jesus’ divine nature, even after He had multiplied the loaves and walked on the water.

6:55–56 laid the sick in the marketplaces. Instead of the usual goods on the market, Jesus found a multitude of desperately ill people, all asking for His touch and healing. The numerous healings here in Gennesaret contrast with the few that were healed in Nazareth (6:5–6). touch even the fringe. This confidence echoes that of the woman who touched Jesus’ garment and was healed (5:28–29). fringe. See note, Mt 14:36: “May refer to the tassel that Israelite men were to wear on the four corners of their outer garment (Nu 15:38–39; Dt 22:12).”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgmRtVc2cs4

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel according to Mark, 6:30–44 (ESV):

Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand

The apostles returned to Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a desolate place by themselves. Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When he went ashore he saw a great crowd, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. And he began to teach them many things. And when it grew late, his disciples came to him and said, “This is a desolate place, and the hour is now late. Send them away to go into the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But he answered them, “You give them something to eat.” And they said to him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give it to them to eat?” And he said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.” And when they had found out, they said, “Five, and two fish.” Then he commanded them all to sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups, by hundreds and by fifties. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven and said a blessing and broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples to set before the people. And he divided the two fish among them all. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of broken pieces and of the fish. And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

6:30–44 When a multitude of Jesus’ followers have far too little food for all to eat, Jesus multiplies five loaves and two fishes so that all are satisfied. When problems threaten us and needs overwhelm our resources, what is our reaction? Do we turn first to the Lord? We should, as His Word makes clear, for He still treats His flock with compassion and more than provides for every need of body and soul. • Lord, thank You for providing so abundantly and for graciously sustaining our bodies and souls. Teach us to turn to You first in every want and need. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:30 The apostles returned. Story begun in vv 7–13 resumes. Intervening account of John’s death (vv 14–29) is a somber reminder that Jesus and His disciples will face the wrath of rulers like Herod.

6:31–32 Despite an unending list of ministry tasks to get done, Jesus made time for Himself and His disciples to rest and recover. Presumably, this time of rest included instruction and prayer (cf 1:35; 7:17).

6:32 desolate place. Not a desert, since there was green grass (v 39). See note, Lk 9:10: “Jesus brings the Twelve to an isolated place, away from the crowds. He probably did this in order to provide a time of rest for the apostles and debrief them after their just-completed mission (cf Lk 10:17–24).”

6:34 compassion. See note, Lk 7:13: «Gk splagchnizomai. Lit, “his gut moved.” Jesus experienced the same gut reaction as we sometimes do in sad situations.» shepherd … teach. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, fulfills the needs of His flock. Here, He provides instruction as well as an unforgettable meal (vv 37–44). Christian worship services today typically have Jesus’ teaching and a miraculous meal as their most important elements. See note, 1:21: “Like other pious Jews, Jesus joined the community in corporate worship on the Sabbath. Mk tells us more of what Jesus did than what he taught. However, the reaction of Jesus’ opponents to His teaching plays a large role in Mk. In fact, Jesus’ controversial teachings—most of which were accompanied by equally provocative actions—produce such outrage in His opponents (cf 2:5–12, 16–17, 18–19, 23–28; 3:1–5) that they are already planning on killing Him by 3:6.”

6:35–36 Because it was likely late afternoon, the people would have time to buy food at the market.

6:37 You give them something to eat. See note, Lk 9:13: “Jesus unexpectedly challenges the apostles. Where earlier, they had to depend on the hospitality of others for food, now, ironically, Jesus asks them to provide for those hearing the Gospel.” two hundred denarii. Over half a year’s salary, a substantial amount.

6:38 Five, and two fish. Obviously, this amount of food was insufficient for Jesus and the Twelve, let alone the multitude.

6:39 green grass. Only Mk records this detail, possibly a vivid recollection from a disciple’s memory.

6:41 This sequence—taking the bread, speaking a blessing, breaking, and then giving—also occurs in the institution of the Lord’s Supper (14:22), which may be foreshadowed here. See notes, Lk 24:30: «Jesus, though guest, becomes host. To take, bless, break, and distribute bread ordinarily began a meal. This was not necessarily the Lord’s Supper, though the words and actions are reminiscent of the Supper, and by them Jesus is recognized for the first time as the crucified and risen Messiah. “Although we do not object if some interpret these passages as referring to the Sacrament, it does not make sense that only one part of the Sacrament was given” (Ap XXII 7).»; Jn 6:51–58: «Not an obvious reference to the Lord’s Supper: the words of institution are not recorded, no wine is present, Jesus speaks of “flesh” and not “body,” and the crowd is generally hostile and unbelieving. However, Jn records many veiled references to Jesus’ future service, such as His work on the cross (1:50; 2:4, 19–22; 4:32; 6:62; 12:32). Whereas the other Gospel writers collected Jesus’ parables, John collected Jesus’ enigmatic, or riddlelike, sayings. His wording anticipates the blessings of the Sacrament.»

6:42–44 all ate … satisfied. The Lord’s superabundant provision was such that, despite the overwhelming number of people, no one went away hungry. five thousand men. Women and children were fed but not included in the number.

Welcome to Sunday -- This Discussion thread, much like the main thread in Tuesday, is for broader discussion than the main focus of the subreddit -- Although we would like it if we could get a focus on the religious, philosophical, and ethical discussions that the focus of the subreddit is on. That way we get to keep religion and politics separate!

The same rules apply as on Tuesday.

Have a blessed week ahead.

Gospel according to Mark, 6:14–29 (ESV):

The Death of John the Baptist

King Herod heard of it, for Jesus’ name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” But others said, “He is Elijah.” And others said, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, because he had married her. For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly.

But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his nobles and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. For when Herodias’s daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests. And the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it to you.” And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half of my kingdom.” And she went out and said to her mother, “For what should I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” And the king was exceedingly sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her. And immediately the king sent an executioner with orders to bring John’s head. He went and beheaded him in the prison and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

6:14–29 Coming just after the story about Jesus’ rejection in Nazareth, the tragic story of John gives an unmistakable foreshadowing of what awaits Jesus: rejection and even violent hostility. But rejection and violence cannot overcome the risen Lord. His victory over death and the grave shows how wonderfully He can turn such antagonism into life and salvation. • Lord, give us a faith like John’s, especially his integrity and trust. Help us to believe unquestioningly that faithfulness unto death will receive the crown of eternal life. Amen.

Engelbrecht, E. A. (2009). The Lutheran Study Bible. Concordia Publishing House:

(Abbreviations Reference Guide: https://www.reddit.com/r/Sunday/comments/1dg8y2u/)

6:14 King. Mt and Lk use the more specific term “tetrarch” (Mt 14:1; Lk 9:7) because the Roman emperor did not recognize Herod Antipas’s claim to royalty. raised from the dead. Herod’s fear and guilt over John’s death likely caused his suspicion that the Baptizer had returned from the dead. Others also suspected that Jesus might be John raised from the dead (8:28).

6:15 See note, 1:6: “Worn by Elijah and other prophets. Jews of Jesus’ day expected Elijah to return just before the Messiah would come. Jesus later equated John’s ministry with this expected return of Elijah (9:11–13; cf 6:15).”

6:17 Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. Granddaughter of Herod the Great. Her present husband, Herod Antipas, was a son of Herod the Great. She had been previously married to Philip, another son of Herod the Great (Philip was also the half brother of Herod Antipas). In other words, both of Herodias’s husbands were also her uncles.

6:18 not lawful. Herod divorced his first wife, the daughter of a Nabataean king, in order to marry Herodias. (Nabataea was the region east of the Dead Sea.) However, it was not lawful for him to marry his brother’s wife (cf Lv 18:16; 20:21). Furthermore, Herodias had divorced her husband, also forbidden by Jewish law.

6:19 Herodias had a grudge. Given her shameful behavior (see notes, vv 17, 18), Herodias was understandably sensitive and therefore irked that John called attention to her divorce and remarriage.

6:20 Herod feared John. See note, v 14. righteous and holy man. John was a prophet who sought neither riches nor political power. Prophets often rebuked kings for their sins (e.g., 2Sm 12:1–14). kept him safe. Jewish historian Josephus wrote that Herod imprisoned John at Machaerus, a fortress overlooking the Dead Sea. There, the prophet was relatively safe from the hatred of Herodias. heard. John preached the Law but also that the Gospel of the kingdom of God was at hand.

6:21 nobles. Part of the wealthy class, whose support Herod needed. military commanders. Along with the nobles, these people formed the backbone of Herod’s support. leading men. Likely second-level rank of officials and civilian leaders.

6:22 danced. Likely suggestively, in a manner calculated to gain favor. Planned by her mother, Herodias (vv 24–26).

6:23 up to half of my kingdom. Herod did not have authority to dispense with half of his kingdom, but used the phrase as an extravagant expression.

6:24–28 Herod ironically attempts to save his honor by taking John’s life.

6:26 exceedingly sorry. Ambr: “[This] is not repentance on the part of the king, but a confession of guilt” (NPNF 2 10:385).

6:28 head on a platter. Grisly display of John’s severed head—at a meal, no less—illustrates the extreme corruption of Herod and his high society friends.

6:29 Herod tries to salvage his reputation by allowing John’s disciples to bury John’s body. John’s burial prefigures the interment of Jesus (15:42–47).