Fourth Sunday in Easter, April 22, 2018, Year B

Please see How to Use Lection Connection

Full lections can be read here.

Based on the Readings as Set

First Reading (Acts 4:5-12)

Peter and John are brought before the Jewish leaders and are questioned about their source of power to heal the lame man. Peter boldly tells them it was by the name of Jesus, whom they crucified but God raised up. Salvation can come by no other name.

Psalm (23)

The Psalmist sees YAHWEH as a good shepherd who looks after his flock, abundantly providing for them even in difficult circumstances. Goodness and mercy characterize a life lived in his fold.

Second Reading (1 John 3:16-24)

Genuine godly love for our needy fellow believers follows the example of Jesus who died for us. It is action that counts, not words. This demonstrates a relationship with Jesus that is confirmed by the Spirit. It is Jesus’ own commandment to love one another.

Gospel (John 10:11-18)

Jesus depicts himself as a committed shepherd who willingly dies for his sheep because he identifies so intimately with them, much as he does with his Father. Other sheep will also be gathered into the same fold to be under the same shepherd.

CONNECTION SUGGESTIONS

  • Jesus leads and provides for his followers
  • Following Jesus requires a serious commitment to sacrificial love
  • Identification with Jesus, taking his name, requires the putting aside of all other ultimate commitments
  • The death of Jesus did not end his presence among his followers
  • The self-giving love of God expressed in Jesus’ death and resurrection should be evident in the common life of the Christian community