6th Sunday of Easter
Acts 10:44-48; Psalm 98; 1 John 5:1-6; John 15:9-17
This Sunday, as Jesus elaborates on his image as the vine, the Revised Common Lectionary moves us from “abide in me” (John 15:4) to “abide in my love” (verse 9). Both are proclaimed in the Greek imperative form. Therefore, both statements are mandates or commandments from Christ to anyone wishing to remain a disciple. They are non-negotiable to Jesus, and he clarifies why: the disciples can’t do anything to bear fruit on their own (5). These two “abide” commandments derive from the original one by which they would be known by the world, love one another as he had loved them (John 13:34-35).
The disciples did not bump into Jesus by chance. They were divinely chosen to bear the fruits nourished by this love (15:16). It was not their own doing. It was a gift of hope, allowing this love a chance to last well into the future. It is a gift not to be taken lightly, for the ways of the world were bound to push against them (John 15:18 – 16:4).
In chapter 5, the author of 1 John insists on abiding in the love of God in Jesus Christ, as stated in chapter 4, by affirming the believer’s obedience and trust in this love. This love serves as a sure defense against the world’s ways of violence, hate, and evil (verses 2 -5).
The Spirit testifies to this truth – the power of love over death – and the Spirit is poured upon those the Spirit chooses. No one can deny anyone the water that births the love of Christ and gives life.
The psalmist sings:
“The LORD has made known his victory;
he has revealed his vindication in the sight of the nations.
Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song and sing praises.”
(Psalm 98:2-4 NRSVue)
Bridging Faith 