Daily Readings - Wed May 17 2017
Acts
1But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."2And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question.3So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers.4When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them.5But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, "It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses."6The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.
John
1"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.2Every branch of mine that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.3Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.4Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.5I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.6If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.7If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.8By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts 15.1-6 presents a pivotal moment in the early Christian church where a disagreement arises about whether Gentile converts must be circumcised. This conflict leads to a decision to seek guidance from the Apostles and elders in Jerusalem, highlighting the importance of unity and seeking wisdom in resolving disputes.
The Gospel reading from John 15.1-8 offers a beautiful metaphor of Jesus as the vine and His followers as the branches. Jesus emphasizes the necessity of abiding in Him to bear fruit, illustrating the deep, abiding relationship required for spiritual growth and effectiveness. This passage underscores the dependence of believers on Christ for their spiritual nourishment and productivity.
These readings connect through themes of unity and reliance on God. In Acts, the early church navigates a significant conflict with grace and unity, leading to a decision that embraces inclusivity. In John, Jesus teaches the essential connection between the believer and Himself, emphasizing that without Him, we cannot accomplish anything of lasting value. Together, they remind us to approach disagreements with love and to stay spiritually connected to Christ, ensuring that our actions and decisions are rooted in His teachings. The moral lesson here is clear: our strength and unity come from abiding in Christ, allowing us to navigate life's challenges with grace and wisdom.