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May 7, 2021

To the Ends of the Earth

Chuck Kralik (Missouri)   |   Read John 15:16-17

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Lectionary Week
May 3–9, 2021
Scripture Overview

The Acts passage continues to tell the story of the advance of the gospel. The Holy Spirit falls on a group of Gentiles. They believe and are baptized, thus showing God’s inclusion of all peoples in the plan of salvation. Psalm 98 is a simple declaration of praise. All creation will sing to and rejoice in the Lord. The two passages from John are linked by their emphasis on the relationship between love and obedience. We do not follow God’s commandments in order to make God love us. On the contrary, because God has first loved us and we love God in return, we follow God’s teachings. Jesus provides the model for us, being obedient to his Father out of love.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection


Read Acts 10:44-48. When has the Spirit of God brought you to a new understanding?
Read Psalm 98. Where have you encountered “a joyful noise” in creation? How do you make a joyful noise in praise of God?
Read 1 John 5:1-6. When have you considered God’s commands as burdensome? When have you found them freeing?
Read John 15:9-17. Are you accustomed to thinking of your relationship with Jesus as a mutual friendship? If so, what does it mean to you to be Jesus’ friend?

Respond by posting a prayer .

John 15:16-17

16 You didn’t choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you could go and produce fruit and so that your fruit could last. As a result, whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give you. 17 I give you these commandments so that you can love each other.

Unless otherwise indicated, scripture quotations are from the Common English Bible. Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible. Used by permission.

In today’s Bible passage, we read Jesus’ words to his disciples: “You did not choose me, but I chose you” (NIV). These words provide us an important lesson with deep spiritual implications, that God takes the initiative in relating to people.

In some theological circles this is referred to as...

Holy God, thank you for choosing to love and save us. We are holy and blameless not because of what we do or have done but by your grace. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.


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