Acts 4:32-35

A great passage here for those who want to say Christianity is all about helping each other. Grace here is not abstract; it leads to action and builds community. That's the general theme but turn the page. The next story is the specific. A couple sells their land and gives some of the proceeds to this newly forming community, but they claim they are giving all of it. Peter (keep in mind this is the guy who denied Jesus right at the crucifixion) lays into them about lying to God and how Satan has filled their hearts. They both just drop dead when confronted. God is not specifically implicated, but Luke is reporting facts and letting you draw a conclusion. He goes on to speak of "signs and wonders". Like last week, there is this mix of fear in with the miracles and healings.

1 John 1:1-2:2

This is an epistle attributed to someone named John, not the gospel of John. It starts off explaining how Jesus was real. There were some who thought otherwise at the time, that is, they thought he was just spirit. But if you want to get in fellowship with these guys, believe that. Also, admit your sin. Don't bother saying you don't sin, because everyone does. You just need to confess them then you can get cleansed. As chapter 2 starts, it sounds like it's possible that you may not sin, but it doesn't matter, because if you do, they have Jesus on their side, atoning for the whole world. Although earlier it sure seemed like you needed to join their group. Hopefully this gets better as we work through this letter.

John 20:19-31

This same passage is included in Year A at this time of the Lectionary year.