Week 19
Bible Text: Matthew 21: 33-46, Mark 12:1-12, Luke 20:9-19 (Isaiah 5:1-7)
Key Verse: Luke 20:14-16
Matthew 21:33-46 a landowner who planted a vineyard: in this parable the vineyard refers to Israel. Jesus' parable is directed against the leaders, not against the people. The suffering of the martyrs throughout history reaches its climax in the death of the Son. The parable anticipates Jesus' death and the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple by the Romans in 70 c.e.
Mark 12:1-9 the tenants: the practice of tenants farming land for an owner was common at the time. This parable is an allegory, or symbolic story. The vineyard represents Israel, the tenants are the Jewish leaders, the slaves are the prophets who spoke God's messages, and the beloved son is Jesus.
Mark 12:10-11 cornerstone: Jesus quotes Psalm 118:22-23, a passage the early church used to talk about Christ as the cornerstone.
Luke 20:10 he sent a servant: this parable is reminiscent of Isaiah 5:1-7. The servants who were sent to the tenants represent the prophets God sent in former time who were rejected.
Isaiah 5:1-7 a vineyard: the prophet uses the form of a love song to create a parable that makes the hearers accuse themselves for their own failings. The song was no doubt actually sung, inviting the listeners to appreciate first the loving care of the owner for this vineyard and then his disappointment when it yields grapes that are bitter and sour, unusable. The remedy is clear, to destroy the old to make room for the new. Finally, they are condemned as they hear that they themselves are the unproductive vineyard.
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Monday: Devotional Reading – Time for prayer & adoration:
Read through the scripture several times, just listening to the words.
Tuesday: Literary Reading – Listen for literary content:
Focus on the text, itself.
Wednesday: Lutheran Theological Reading – Read from a Lutheran perspective:
Reflect on the convictions, insights and expectations that rise particularly from our Lutheran Heritage.
Thursday: Historical Reading – Read with an ear for History:
Reflect on the historical situation.
Friday: Catch up on missed reading time
Saturday & Sunday: Day of Rest
For More Detailed Reflection Questions please check-out the link "Daily Reflection Questions" link.
