suffering

Standing firm in 1 Peter 4 and 5 video discussion

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The lectionary reading for Easter 7 in Year A is split over two chapters in 1 Peter: 1 Peter 4.12-14; 5.6-11. The first part returns to the question of suffering, and both connects with previous teaching on suffering, and adds in new striking dimensions, in particular the mention of the Spirit.

The second part includes well-known encouragements to cast all our cares on God, because he cares for us.

In both, Peter echoes the teaching of Jesus, draws on the Old Testament, but also points to the reality of suffering for his readers.

The gospel reading for this week is John 17.1–11, the start of Jesus’ so-called High Priestly prayer.

The video discussion of that is here, and the written commentary is here.

Paul sees his death within God’s purposes in 2 Tim 4 video discussion

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The lectionary reading for the so-called last Sunday after Trinity is 2 Tim 4.6–8 and 16–18. As sometimes happens, the lectionary omits important verses which you should read! This passage offers amazing insights into how Paul sees his own death in relation to Jesus’ return, how he locates the particulars of his life within a … Continue Reading

Peace, Hope, and Suffering in Romans 5 video discussion

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The lectionary readings in this Year C for Trinity Sunday are John 16.12–15 and Romans 5.1–5, both quite short readings. Western eyes often read Romans 5 in individual terms, but the honour/shame/glory motif needs to be understood corporately. The surprising combination of hope and suffering shows that Paul’s eschatology stands behind this—the future has broken … Continue Reading