5^th SUNDAY OF EASTER-C

I Reading: Acts 14:21-27: They gave an account to the Church of all that God had done with them.

II Reading: Apocalypse 21:1-5: God will wipe away all tears from their eyes.

Gospel: John 13:31-35: I give you a new commandment: love one another.

The Departure of Jesus From This World, 13:31-38

The death and departure of Jesus from the world was most significant.

1. Jesus’ death brought a threefold glory (v.31-32)

a. The Son of Man’s glory: The Cross

b. God’s glory: Jesus’ obedience

c. Jesus’ glory: The Resurrection

2. Jesus’ death demanded a new commandment (v.33-35)

a. The reason: His departure from the earth

b. The new commandment: To love as Jesus loved

c. The mark of a true discipleship: Love

3. Jesus’ death revealed stumbling loyalty (v.36-38)

a. Cause 1: Misunderstanding Jesus’ death

b. Cause 2: Carnal commitment

Thought: How many make the same mistake about the cross? Misunderstanding the cross and Jesus as the exalted Lord (as opposed to His being just as a great teacher) causes stumbling and faltering faith. (1Cor 1:18, 23; 2Cor 4:3-5)

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