August 30, 2020

Breaking Open the Scripture Scripture for August 30th: Exodus 3:1-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45, Romans 12:9-21, Matthew 16:21-28 Romans: Jesus gives the keys to heaven to the entire church. The purpose of the keys is to unlock love and kindness into the world. It is important for the entire church to strive to be an example for all of the world. Paul has talked about the gifts that the church has been given in order to fullfill the mission. So now Paul reminds us that love is behind all of our actions. So Paul spells out specific ways to spread that love. Love undergirds the way that we treat people in the world and especially the church. Next Paul will talk about how evil struggles to undermine all of that. That is why it is so important to be intentional about showing love to all brothers and sisters. Matthew: Peter continually goes back and forth in his faith. One minute he is the rock of salvation, and the next minute, he is at the bottom of the heap. Jesus has been leading them on a journey. Jesus did not want to go to Jerusalem until he knew that the disciples were ready to take over his ministry. That moment has come. So Jesus tells them what is about to happen. Peter is the first person to protest, that this cannot happen. Jesus explains that Peter cannot and should not stop history. In order for God’s story to prevail, Jesus must die. The only way you get to resurrection is through death. The Kingdom of heaven is a common theme for Matthew. Jesus explains that the Kingdom is also coming. And soon its reign will be heaven and earth Questions: What difference does love make in how you treat others? How can the church show love? What stands in the way of you totally claiming Christ as the messiah? What is the kingdom of heaven?