6th September 2026
Matthew 18:15-20
Taken as a set of rules, Matthew 18:15–20 can seem harsh. To our ears, they convey a sense of control and authority. In the contemporary world we have today, an approach like this could be considered out of place and even inappropriate. In a world where so much is permitted, it may be extraordinary to have a situation to be challenged.
Many congregations prefer to invite, rather than expel or exclude members. Yet, these verses hold some helpful principles. They suggest addressing conflict at the grassroots level, where it begins, and keeping it a private matter between those involved. They suggest a pastoral sensitivity that is alert to hurt feelings and a personal strength that overcomes difference and disagreement. They talk about engaging with others and drawing their wisdom and connections if there is no progress. Where we might be called to seek common ground as a basis for working together, how might this shape our relationships, our prayers, and our awareness of Christ’s presence among us?
13th September 2026
Matthew 18:21-35
Forgiveness is a key concept for Christians. Jesus talks a lot about releasing others from debt, guilt, and blame. There is a destructive power in holding onto wrongs done and of bearing grudges over another’s behaviour. Such a power can compound and damage the person already inflicted.
Peter speaks for us all as he asks if forgiveness should continue to be extended for ongoing wrongs. So, Jesus tells him, and us a parable. Parables are intended to surprise or startle us, and this story of the unforgiving servant does. Is the leniency of the king shown to him and his family unexpected? Does the immediate action of the enslaved person to retrieve a much smaller debt from a workmate confronting for us? Do we take some form of assurance from the other slaves who are aware of what’s happening and take solace in their action for justice? Perhaps we are puzzled by the king’s change of attitude from leniency to punishment, or do we find ourselves agreeing with his righteous anger at the enslaved person’s failure to follow the path of mercy?
The ending unsettles us. How do we hold this image of harsh punishment alongside our understanding of a merciful God? What might Jesus be revealing about the seriousness of forgiveness, and not extending to others the mercy we have received? There is much here to challenge us and shape how we live with one another.
20th September 2026
Matthew 20:1-16
This story, like Jesus’ other parables, provokes plenty of debate when heard in a contemporary context. However, basic human responses continue to shine through.
Labourers were hired on a daily basis from a central location in a village, standard daily wages were accepted and verbal agreements based on trust and honour. This employer demonstrates a surprising degree of commitment to the unemployed, who in turn display commitment to their families as they try to earn enough money to buy food. Why does the employer offer all the same remuneration, irrespective of hours worked? Why does he send his steward to oversee the payments? What would be our response if we had worked very short hours yet received a day’s wage? Or if we had worked hard all day in the hot sun but been paid no more than those recently engaged? Is the employer deceitful or generous? Are the full day workers too self-centered to celebrate the benefit to the whole community when all have enough to feed their families and find well-being? With which character do you have most empathy? What does generosity look like for you?
27th September 2026
Matthew 21:23-32
The gospels show clearly how the people fear ruling leaders, and at times how leaders fear public opinion. We see this in today’s reading. The religious leaders see Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem as enthusiastically approved of by the people, and they witness his impassioned upsetting of the commercial interests within the temple. The leaders challenge Jesus’ authority, and out of fear, chose to evade his question. Jesus, in turn, challenges both their authority and their integrity with another parable.
The son who refuses his father’s request to his face would be considered disrespectful, whereas the other son shows respect through verbal compliance. However, don’t actions speak louder than words in any culture?
Jesus actions see him associate and befriend those whom the religious leaders regard as outcasts. He sees them all as God’s children but suggests that pious practice can be a barrier to finding God. What puts tax collectors and prostitutes ahead of the devout, is it simply believing in John’s message, or did they need to make changes? How does this relate to us as a people of faith?