John 14:8-17 is a slightly odd text for Pentecost — until the end it says very little about the coming of the Spirit. But as with all of John 13-17, it is theologically rich. John 14:8-17 It’s a great text on the Trinity and on the purpose of the Incarnation — plus, if you sneak […]
Monday Meditation: RCL Year B, Pentecost, John 15:26-27, 16:4b-15
John 15:26-27, 16:4b-15 As with almost any text in John, the Gospel text for Pentecost (John 15:26-27, 16:4b-15) is evocative, fascinating, and confusing by turns. Don’t expect me to clear it all up and tie it with a bow for you. These Monday Meditations are just my journey into next Sunday’s Gospel. I hope you’ll […]
Is Pentecost “The Birthday of the Church”? (Heidelberg Catechism, Q54)
Here’s a question for you: How many of you have heard or preached a Pentecost sermon proclaiming it “the birthday of the Church”? That seems to be the understanding today among Christians. What really happened in Acts chapter 2? Was it “the first Pentecost”? No. Jews from around the world were gathered in Jerusalem to […]