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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Scripture Lesson
Sunday, October 25, 2026
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 5:17, Matthew 26:47-53
Sermon: Ten Commands; Ten Ways of Being: Be Non-Violent
Deuteronomy 5:17 (New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition)
You shall not kill.
Matthew 26:47-53 (The Message)
47-49 The words were barely out of his mouth when Judas (the one from the Twelve) showed up, and with him a gang from the high priests and religious leaders brandishing swords and clubs. The betrayer had worked out a sign with them: “The one I kiss, that’s the one—seize him.” He went straight to Jesus, greeted him, “How are you, Rabbi?” and kissed him.
50-51 Jesus said, “Friend, why this charade?” Then they came on him—grabbed him and roughed him up. One of those with Jesus pulled his sword and, taking a swing at the Chief Priest’s servant, cut off his ear.
52-53 Jesus said, “Put your sword back where it belongs. All who use swords are destroyed by swords. Don’t you realize that I am able right now to call to my Father, and twelve legions of angels would be here?
Key Idea of the Sermon:
Fifteen centuries prior to Jesus, God worked through Moses to liberate the Israelite people from slavery in Egypt. Moses also prepared God’s people for a return to a land of promise and a life of freedom with a set of ten key Divine commands. These commands have served as a reliable framework for a faithful relationship with God, as well as a helpful foundation for living in community. Each command is paired with a story of Jesus that shows us how to fulfill each command. God’s commands invite us to a way of being. Today we remember God’s command to avoid violence and we watch Jesus put that into practice as Jesus chose not to meet violence with violence. Jesus showed restraint and self-control.
Questions for Reflection
• Read Jesus’ teachings on the sixth commandment in Matthew 5:21-26 and 43-46. Jesus intensifies God’s commands for his disciples. What would have to change in your life to meet Jesus’ high expectations?
• Brainstorm the options to resisting evil and violence without resorting to violence?
• Jesus submitted to the violence of the cross. God overcame violence and death with an empty tomb. How does the promise of resurrection empower a non-violent discipleship?
A Spiritual Practice to Try
Practice one of the non-violent options you identified in the questions for reflection. Ask Jesus to help you.
If you need some guidance or support, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com
