On this Last Sunday after Pentecost we will be reading from the Gospel according to John, and hear a conversation between Jesus and Pilate. Jesus responds to Pilate's question of Jesus' status in the world, which we quickly learn is a question that shows Pilate's lack of understanding about Jesus and his mission to the world. Our reflections and discussions will focus on Jesus' words of "testifying to the truth" and how the truth of God's word stands for all time and often is counter to the prevailing trends and temptations of the world.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to John. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (John 18:33-37).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Read the Scripture lesson assigned for this week, and reflect on the conversation between Jesus and Pilate. What do you imagine they are each thinking during this exchange? Pilate is the Procurator of the Region and has a lot of civil authority - he was probably thinking of his position of power over Jesus. Jesus is the misunderstood Messiah, on a divine mission to teach God's will - his silence was likely a response to Pilate's complete misunderstanding of who Jesus is and what he is doing in the world. What are your thoughts about this exchange?
Read the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, and reflect on the deeper meaning of Jesus' statement of "the truth." If you are not familiar with some of the verses of John's Gospel account referenced in the paragraph, spend some time looking them up to get a better context of Jesus' statements to Pilate. What insights did you gain from this paragraph regarding your understanding of "the truth?"
Read the "WHERE..." paragraph below, and reflect on the author's statement: "the truth is neither relative nor provisional." What does this mean to you, especially the timeless nature of Jesus' mission to the world?
Read the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below, and reflect on the author's words of God's mission in the world, made know to us in the ministry of Jesus, and how each and every one of us belong to God's community of healing and restoration. How does your faith community spread God's mission of healing and redemption?
Read the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below, and reflect on the invitation to "face the truth of God's mission" and what facing that truth might mean for your life, and the life of your faith community.
