Letters From Home Friday of the Second Week of Easter - Dr. John Bergsma
May 2, 2025
Explore the challenges faced by the apostles as they navigate miracles and opposition, highlighting Gamaliel's wise advice. Discover the profound message behind the feeding of the 5,000 and its ties to the Old Testament. Reflect on the comforting themes of Psalm 23, connecting Jesus's role as the shepherd to the abundance found in the sacramental life of the Church. Dive into a deep exploration of spiritual sustenance during the Easter season!
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Gamaliel's Wise Counsel
- Gamaliel, a respected Pharisee, represents the openness of Judaism to the truth of the gospel despite initial opposition.
- He warns that if the apostles' mission is from God, opposing them means fighting against God himself.
Judaism's Openness to Jesus
- Gamaliel shows the highest wisdom of Jewish tradition by being open to investigating Jesus as the Messiah.
- The best of Judaism upheld a testing of Jesus' claims and the growth of the Christian church.
Jesus as Shepherd in Feeding
- The feeding of the 5,000 alludes to many Old Testament passages such as wilderness manna and Psalm 23.
- Jesus identifying himself as the shepherd means the people lack nothing, symbolizing spiritual and physical fulfillment.