Scripture Reading Connections
January 5th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 1:18-2:6
This passage narrates the birth of Jesus, focusing on the divine nature of His
conception, the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and the significance of
His name, Immanuel, meaning "God with us."
Old Testament Reading:
Micah 5:2-15
This passage prophesies the birthplace of the Messiah in Bethlehem and
highlights the ruler's eternal origins and the peace He will bring. It also
describes God's judgment on Israel's enemies and the purification of the nation.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the prophecy and fulfillment
regarding the Messiah's birth.
In Matthew 1:18-2:6, the fulfillment of Micah’s prophecy is highlighted as Jesus is born in Bethlehem, affirming His role as the divine ruler who brings salvation.
In Micah 5, the prophecy foretells the Messiah’s humble origins and the great significance of His birth in Bethlehem. It emphasizes the divine plan for peace and restoration through the coming ruler.
Both readings emphasize God's plan for salvation through the Messiah, connecting the prophecy in Micah with its fulfillment in the Gospel of Matthew.
January 12th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 2:7-23
This passage recounts the journey of the wise men, Herod’s response to the news
of the Messiah’s birth, the Holy Family’s flight to Egypt, and the fulfillment
of multiple Old Testament prophecies.
Old Testament Reading:
Jeremiah 31:15-22
This passage contains a prophecy of Rachel weeping for her children, symbolizing
the sorrow of Israel's exile and suffering, but it also promises restoration and
hope for the future.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of sorrow, divine
protection, and fulfillment of prophecy.
In Matthew 2:7-23, the slaughter of the innocent children by Herod echoes Jeremiah’s prophecy of Rachel weeping. Yet the passage also highlights divine protection as God leads Joseph to protect the child Jesus, fulfilling other prophecies about the Messiah.
In Jeremiah 31, the lament of Rachel weeping is accompanied by a promise of hope and restoration, signifying that God’s plan will prevail despite sorrow.
Both readings intertwine themes of sorrow and divine protection, pointing to God’s overarching plan for restoration and salvation through the Messiah.
January 19th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 3:1-17
This passage describes the ministry of John the Baptist, his call to repentance,
and the baptism of Jesus, where the Spirit descends, and the Father affirms
Jesus as His beloved Son.
Old Testament Reading:
Isaiah 40:1-11
This passage announces comfort for God’s people, a call to prepare the way of
the Lord, and the promise of God’s glory being revealed. It emphasizes the Lord
as both a mighty ruler and a tender shepherd.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the preparation for the coming of
the Lord and the affirmation of His divine mission.
In Matthew 3, John the Baptist fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy by preparing the way for the Lord, calling people to repentance. Jesus’ baptism marks the beginning of His ministry, with divine confirmation of His identity.
In Isaiah 40, the prophecy of preparing the way for the Lord points to the coming of the Messiah and highlights God’s glory and care for His people.
Both readings focus on the preparation for and the affirmation of Jesus as the Messiah, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy and inaugurating His ministry.
January 26th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 4:1-25
This passage describes Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness, the beginning of His
ministry in Galilee, and the calling of His first disciples. It emphasizes His
message of repentance and the coming of the kingdom of heaven.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 91:1-16
This psalm speaks of God’s protection and deliverance for those who trust in
Him, using imagery of safety under His wings and promises of rescue from danger
and harm.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of divine protection and
faithfulness in the face of temptation and challenge.
In Matthew 4, Jesus resists the devil’s temptations by relying on God’s Word, demonstrating trust in the Father’s provision and protection.
In Psalms 91, the psalmist expresses confidence in God’s protection, a promise referenced by Satan during Jesus’ temptation, though misapplied.
Both readings highlight the importance of relying on God’s faithfulness and promises, with Jesus serving as the ultimate example of trusting God amidst trials.
February 2nd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 5:1-26
This passage begins the Sermon on the Mount, covering the Beatitudes, Jesus’
teaching on being salt and light, and His explanation of fulfilling the Law,
followed by warnings against anger and reconciliation.
Old Testament Reading:
Exodus 20:1-21
This passage contains the Ten Commandments, given to Israel at Mount Sinai,
establishing God’s covenant and expectations for holy living.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of God's law and its
fulfillment in the lives of His people.
In Matthew 5, Jesus explains the deeper spiritual meaning of the Law, calling His followers to live with righteousness that surpasses mere outward obedience.
In Exodus 20, the giving of the Ten Commandments forms the foundation of God’s covenant with His people, emphasizing holiness and moral conduct.
Both readings highlight the importance of God’s Law, with Jesus revealing its ultimate purpose and calling His disciples to live in light of its deeper truths.
February 9th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 5:27-48
This passage continues the Sermon on the Mount, addressing topics such as
adultery, divorce, oaths, retaliation, and love for enemies, emphasizing a call
to perfection and righteousness in God’s kingdom.
Old Testament Reading:
Exodus 21:12-25
This passage outlines laws concerning justice and restitution, emphasizing
proportional retribution (e.g., "an eye for an eye") as a means of ensuring
fairness and preventing excessive punishment.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings centers on the contrast between the legal
principle of proportional justice and Jesus’ call to go beyond it.
In Matthew 5, Jesus transforms the "eye for an eye" principle into a higher standard, calling His followers to resist retaliation and instead show love and forgiveness, even to enemies.
In Exodus 21, the laws establish a framework for justice and fairness within society, focusing on limiting excessive retribution.
Both readings highlight justice, but Jesus elevates the discussion by calling for a heart transformation that embodies love and mercy, fulfilling the deeper intent of the Law.
February 16th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 6:1-18
This passage covers Jesus’ teachings on practicing righteousness, giving to the
needy, prayer (including the Lord’s Prayer), and fasting, emphasizing sincerity
and seeking God’s reward rather than human recognition.
Old Testament Reading:
Daniel 6:1-16
This passage recounts Daniel’s faithfulness in prayer despite a royal decree
forbidding it. Daniel is thrown into the lions’ den for his unwavering
commitment to worshiping God.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of sincere devotion to
God and prioritizing His approval over human recognition.
In Matthew 6, Jesus emphasizes performing acts of righteousness - giving, praying, and fasting - with sincerity, seeking only God’s reward and not human praise.
In Daniel 6, Daniel exemplifies sincere devotion by praying openly to God despite the threat of persecution, showing that His faithfulness to God surpasses any fear of human judgment.
Both readings encourage wholehearted devotion to God, focusing on seeking His approval above all else.
February 23rd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 6:19-34
This passage addresses the themes of treasures in heaven, trusting God instead
of worrying, and seeking His kingdom and righteousness above all else.
Old Testament Reading:
1 Kings 4:21-34
This passage describes Solomon’s wealth, wisdom, and the peace and prosperity of
Israel during his reign, reflecting the blessings of living under God’s
guidance.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings centers on trusting God as the source of
provision and focusing on eternal priorities over material wealth.
In Matthew 6, Jesus calls His followers to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth and to trust in God’s provision, freeing them from anxiety about material needs.
In 1 Kings 4, Solomon’s reign reflects the blessings of God’s provision and wisdom, showing the benefits of aligning priorities with God’s guidance.
Both readings emphasize reliance on God and the pursuit of eternal values over earthly concerns, with Jesus offering a call to seek first His kingdom and righteousness.
March 2nd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 7:1-14
This passage includes Jesus’ teaching on judging others, asking and receiving
from God, and the narrow gate that leads to life, emphasizing trust, humility,
and commitment to following God’s way.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 1:1-6
This psalm contrasts the way of the righteous, who delight in God’s law, with
the way of the wicked, who are like chaff blown away by the wind. It underscores
the blessings of walking in God’s path.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the contrast between the narrow
way of righteousness and the broad way of destruction.
In Matthew 7, Jesus calls His followers to self-examination, humility, and choosing the narrow path that leads to life, which requires commitment and discernment.
In Psalms 1, the psalmist highlights the blessings of walking in the way of righteousness and the ultimate fate of those who reject God’s path.
Both readings encourage pursuing God’s way, avoiding judgmental attitudes, and living with trust and obedience to His guidance.
March 9th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 7:15-29
This passage addresses false prophets, the importance of bearing good fruit, and
building one’s life on the solid foundation of Jesus’ teachings, emphasizing
discernment and faithful obedience.
Old Testament Reading:
Deuteronomy 13:1-18
This passage warns against false prophets who lead people astray and emphasizes
the importance of remaining faithful to God’s commandments and avoiding
idolatry.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the warnings against false
prophets and the call to discernment and faithfulness.
In Matthew 7, Jesus warns His followers to recognize false prophets by their fruit and emphasizes the importance of living in obedience to His teachings as a firm foundation.
In Deuteronomy 13, the warning against false prophets and idolatry underscores the importance of steadfast faithfulness to God’s commands.
Both readings emphasize vigilance, discernment, and the importance of aligning one’s life with God’s truth to remain faithful amidst challenges and deceit.
March 16th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 8:1-17
This passage recounts several of Jesus’ miracles, including the healing of a
leper, the centurion’s servant, and Peter’s mother-in-law, showing Jesus’
authority and compassion.
Old Testament Reading:
Isaiah 53:1-12
This passage prophetically describes the suffering servant, who bears the sins
of others and brings healing through His suffering and sacrifice, pointing to
the Messiah.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in Jesus’ role as the one who brings
healing and fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy of the suffering servant.
In Matthew 8, Jesus demonstrates His power to heal physical ailments and His compassion for all, fulfilling the prophetic words about the Messiah bringing restoration.
In Isaiah 53, the suffering servant is described as bearing the iniquities of many and bringing healing through His sacrifice.
Both readings emphasize Jesus as the compassionate healer and fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity, revealing His authority over sickness and sin.
March 23rd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 8:18-34
This passage describes Jesus calming the storm, the cost of following Him, and
His authority over demons as He casts them out of two men into a herd of pigs.
Old Testament Reading:
Jonah 1:1-16
This passage recounts Jonah’s attempt to flee from God’s call, leading to a
great storm at sea. Jonah’s eventual surrender to God’s will brings calm to the
sea and salvation to the sailors.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of storms, divine
authority, and surrendering to God’s will.
In Matthew 8, Jesus demonstrates His authority over the natural world by calming the storm and His authority over the spiritual world by casting out demons, revealing His divine power.
In Jonah 1, Jonah’s resistance to God’s will results in a storm, which is calmed only when he surrenders to God’s plan, showing God’s authority over nature and human destiny.
Both readings highlight God’s sovereign power over creation and call for trust and submission to His authority.
March 30th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 9:1-17
This passage narrates the healing of a paralyzed man, the calling of Matthew,
and Jesus’ teaching about fasting, emphasizing His authority to forgive sins and
His mission to bring sinners to repentance.
Old Testament Reading:
Hosea 6:1-11
This passage calls for repentance and highlights God’s desire for steadfast love
and knowledge of Him rather than mere ritual sacrifices. It also warns against
superficial worship and disobedience.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of repentance, mercy,
and God’s desire for a genuine relationship with His people.
In Matthew 9, Jesus emphasizes His mission to call sinners to repentance and demonstrates His authority to forgive sins, showing that God’s mercy is greater than religious rituals.
In Hosea 6, the prophet calls for sincere repentance and underscores God’s desire for steadfast love and true knowledge over hollow rituals.
Both readings highlight the importance of repentance, God’s mercy, and a heartfelt relationship with Him rather than external forms of religiosity.
April 6th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 9:18-34
This passage recounts Jesus healing a woman with a bleeding condition, raising a
ruler’s daughter, and restoring sight to two blind men. It concludes with the
healing of a mute man possessed by a demon, showcasing Jesus’ authority and
compassion.
Old Testament Reading:
Ezekiel 34:1-16
This passage depicts God as the shepherd of Israel, seeking the lost, binding
the injured, and strengthening the weak while condemning the neglectful
shepherds of the people.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of compassion, healing,
and restoration.
In Matthew 9, Jesus exemplifies the good shepherd by restoring life, healing, and offering hope to those in need, demonstrating His care and authority.
In Ezekiel 34, God declares Himself as the true shepherd who will seek out the lost, heal the injured, and care for His people, contrasting with false shepherds.
Both readings highlight Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promise to be the shepherd who restores His people and brings wholeness to their lives.
April 13th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 9:35-10:16
This passage describes Jesus’ compassion for the crowds and His commissioning of
the twelve apostles to preach, heal, and proclaim the kingdom of heaven. It
includes warnings about persecution and reliance on God.
Old Testament Reading:
Genesis 19:12-29
This passage narrates the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah and the deliverance
of Lot and his family. It highlights God’s justice and His rescue of the
righteous from judgment.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of divine mission,
deliverance, and the urgency of responding to God’s call.
In Matthew 9 and 10, Jesus sends His disciples on a mission to proclaim the kingdom, emphasizing their role in bringing hope and salvation in the face of opposition.
In Genesis 19, God rescues Lot and his family from destruction, showcasing His justice and mercy while emphasizing the urgency of heeding His call.
Both readings highlight the responsibility of God’s messengers and the critical nature of responding to God’s invitation for deliverance and salvation.
April 20th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 10:17-11:1
This passage continues Jesus’ instructions to the apostles, warning of
persecution, the cost of discipleship, and the necessity of putting loyalty to
Him above all else.
Old Testament Reading:
Micah 7:1-13
This passage laments the corruption and unfaithfulness of the people but ends
with a declaration of trust in God’s salvation and hope for restoration.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of perseverance,
faithfulness, and trust in God amidst opposition.
In Matthew 10, Jesus warns His disciples of the challenges they will face but calls them to remain steadfast, trusting in God’s provision and care.
In Micah 7, the prophet mourns the unfaithfulness of the people yet expresses hope in God’s ultimate salvation and restoration.
Both readings encourage faithfulness and perseverance in the face of trials, emphasizing reliance on God’s power and promises.
April 27th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 11:2-19
This passage describes John the Baptist’s questions about Jesus, Jesus’
affirmation of John’s ministry, and a reflection on the rejection of both John
and Jesus by their generation.
Old Testament Reading:
Malachi 3:8-4:6
This passage addresses Israel’s unfaithfulness, God’s promise of judgment and
refinement, and the coming of Elijah (fulfilled in John the Baptist) before the
day of the Lord.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of expectation,
preparation, and the mixed response to God’s messengers.
In Matthew 11, Jesus affirms John the Baptist’s role as the forerunner of the Messiah and reflects on the varied responses to both their ministries.
In Malachi 3-4, the coming of a messenger like Elijah (John the Baptist) is foretold, along with a call for repentance before the day of the Lord.
Both readings highlight the preparation for God’s redemptive work, the role of His messengers, and the importance of responding to their call.
May 4th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 11:20-30
This passage records Jesus’ rebuke of unrepentant cities and His invitation to
all who are weary to find rest in Him, emphasizing humility, repentance, and the
gentle yoke of discipleship.
Old Testament Reading:
Ezekiel 28:1-19
This passage contains a prophecy against the king of Tyre, denouncing his pride
and arrogance and describing his downfall due to his rebellion against God.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of pride, repentance,
and finding rest in submission to God.
In Matthew 11, Jesus rebukes the unrepentant cities for their pride and refusal to acknowledge God’s works, offering rest to those who humbly come to Him.
In Ezekiel 28, the king of Tyre is judged for his pride and self-reliance, illustrating the consequences of rejecting God’s sovereignty.
Both readings emphasize the contrast between pride and humility, highlighting the blessings of repentance and submission to God.
May 11th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 12:1-21
This passage recounts Jesus’ teachings on the Sabbath, His healing of a man with
a withered hand, and His fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy about the servant who
brings justice to the nations.
Old Testament Reading:
Isaiah 42:1-17
This passage describes the servant of the Lord, chosen to bring justice, restore
the covenant, and be a light to the nations, emphasizing God’s faithfulness and
salvation.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in Jesus’ fulfillment of the role of
the servant who brings justice and healing.
In Matthew 12, Jesus asserts His lordship over the Sabbath and demonstrates His mission of mercy and healing, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy about the servant of the Lord.
In Isaiah 42, the servant is described as bringing justice and compassion, embodying God’s light and salvation for the nations.
Both readings highlight Jesus as the fulfillment of the servant’s role, bringing justice, healing, and hope to a broken world.
May 18th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 12:22-37
This passage describes Jesus healing a demon-possessed man and the ensuing
accusations from the Pharisees, leading to Jesus’ teaching on the unpardonable
sin and the importance of bearing good fruit.
Old Testament Reading:
2 Kings 1:1-18
This passage recounts the story of King Ahaziah seeking guidance from Baal-Zebub
rather than from God, leading to Elijah’s rebuke and the king’s judgment for his
unfaithfulness.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the rejection of God’s authority
and the consequences of blaspheming or opposing His Spirit.
In Matthew 12, Jesus addresses the Pharisees’ blasphemy against the Holy Spirit and warns about the consequences of speaking against God’s work.
In 2 Kings 1, King Ahaziah’s rejection of God and reliance on false gods results in divine judgment through Elijah’s prophetic word.
Both readings highlight the gravity of rejecting God’s authority and the call to recognize and honor His Spirit at work.
May 25th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 12:38-50
This passage includes Jesus’ response to the Pharisees’ demand for a sign, His
teaching on the sign of Jonah, and His clarification about who truly belongs to
His family.
Old Testament Reading:
Jonah 3:1-10
This passage narrates Jonah’s obedience in proclaiming God’s message to Nineveh,
resulting in the city’s repentance and God’s mercy in withholding judgment.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of repentance, the sign
of Jonah, and God’s mercy toward those who respond to His call.
In Matthew 12, Jesus refers to the sign of Jonah to illustrate His death and resurrection and calls His audience to repentance and faith.
In Jonah 3, the prophet’s message leads to the repentance of Nineveh and God’s mercy, showcasing the power of turning back to God.
Both readings emphasize the importance of repentance in response to God’s message and highlight Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of the sign of Jonah.
June 1st, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 13:1-23
This passage contains the Parable of the Sower and Jesus’ explanation of the
parable, focusing on the different responses to the message of the kingdom of
heaven.
Old Testament Reading:
Isaiah 6:1-13
This passage recounts Isaiah’s vision of God’s holiness, his commissioning as a
prophet, and God’s warning that many will hear but not understand His message.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of hearing God’s word
and the varied responses to His message.
In Matthew 13, Jesus uses the Parable of the Sower to illustrate how people respond differently to the word of the kingdom, depending on the condition of their hearts.
In Isaiah 6, God commissions Isaiah to deliver a message, warning him that many will hear but fail to understand or respond faithfully.
Both readings emphasize the importance of openness and receptivity to God’s message and the consequences of failing to respond.
June 8th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 13:24-43
This passage includes the Parable of the Weeds, the Parable of the Mustard Seed,
and the Parable of the Yeast, emphasizing the growth of God’s kingdom and the
final judgment.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 78:1-16
This psalm recounts God’s mighty deeds and faithfulness to Israel, inviting His
people to remember His works and trust in His plans despite their
unfaithfulness.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of God’s kingdom,
patience, and the certainty of His final judgment.
In Matthew 13, Jesus teaches that the kingdom of heaven will grow amidst opposition, and the final judgment will separate the righteous from the wicked.
In Psalms 78, the psalmist reminds the people of God’s mighty acts and His patience with Israel, calling them to trust in His faithfulness.
Both readings highlight God’s sovereignty in growing His kingdom and the assurance of His ultimate judgment and justice.
June 15th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 13:44-58
This passage includes the Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl,
emphasizing the immense value of the kingdom of heaven, and concludes with Jesus
being rejected in His hometown.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 78:17-39
This psalm continues recounting Israel’s rebellion against God, His patience
with them, and His enduring compassion despite their unfaithfulness.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the contrast between valuing God’s
kingdom and rejecting His message.
In Matthew 13, Jesus teaches that the kingdom of heaven is worth everything, yet He experiences rejection from those who fail to see its value.
In Psalms 78, the psalmist highlights Israel’s repeated rejection of God’s blessings and their failure to fully trust in His plans, despite His mercy and patience.
Both readings emphasize the need to recognize and embrace the value of God’s kingdom and the danger of rejecting His message.
June 22nd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 14:1-21
This passage recounts the death of John the Baptist and Jesus’ miraculous
feeding of the five thousand, showcasing His compassion and divine provision.
Old Testament Reading:
2 Kings 4:38-44
This passage describes Elisha feeding a crowd with twenty loaves of barley, a
miracle demonstrating God’s provision and care for His people.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of God’s compassion,
provision, and miraculous care for His people.
In Matthew 14, Jesus feeds the five thousand, demonstrating His power to provide for His people and His deep compassion for their needs.
In 2 Kings 4, Elisha’s miracle of feeding a crowd with limited resources reflects God’s ability to meet His people’s needs through His servants.
Both readings highlight God’s abundant provision and His compassion for His people, pointing to His ultimate care and power.
June 29th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 14:22-36
This passage describes Jesus walking on water, His encouragement to Peter to
have faith, and His healing of the sick, emphasizing His authority and the
importance of trusting Him.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 107:17-32
This psalm celebrates God’s deliverance, particularly His calming of storms and
His saving of those who call out to Him in their distress.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in God’s power over nature and His
invitation to trust Him in times of trouble.
In Matthew 14, Jesus reveals His divine authority over creation by walking on water and calming the fears of His disciples, inviting Peter to trust Him.
In Psalms 107, the psalmist praises God for delivering His people from storms and distress when they cry out to Him, emphasizing His saving power.
Both readings encourage faith in God’s power and trust in His presence, especially during life’s challenges and uncertainties.
July 6th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 15:1-20
This passage recounts Jesus’ confrontation with the Pharisees regarding ritual
purity, emphasizing the importance of inner purity over external practices.
Old Testament Reading:
Isaiah 29:11-24
This passage includes a prophecy about people who honor God with their lips but
whose hearts are far from Him. It also speaks of God’s eventual restoration and
redemption of His people.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of true worship and the
condition of the heart.
In Matthew 15, Jesus challenges the Pharisees’ focus on external traditions and emphasizes that true defilement comes from the heart.
In Isaiah 29, God rebukes those who offer hollow worship and promises transformation and restoration for those who truly seek Him.
Both readings call for genuine devotion to God and highlight the need for a pure heart over mere external observance.
July 13th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 15:21-39
This passage describes Jesus’ interaction with the Canaanite woman, showcasing
her faith, and His miraculous feeding of the four thousand, emphasizing His
compassion and inclusion of Gentiles.
Old Testament Reading:
1 Kings 17:8-24
This passage recounts Elijah’s encounter with the widow at Zarephath,
highlighting God’s provision for her and the miraculous raising of her son from
the dead.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of faith, compassion,
and God’s provision, especially to those outside Israel.
In Matthew 15, Jesus acknowledges the Canaanite woman’s faith and performs a miracle for her, showing that God’s compassion extends to Gentiles.
In 1 Kings 17, Elijah, a prophet of Israel, is sent to a Gentile widow, demonstrating God’s provision and care for all who trust Him.
Both readings emphasize the power of faith, God’s inclusiveness, and His miraculous provision for those in need.
July 20th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 16:1-20
This passage includes the Pharisees and Sadducees demanding a sign, Jesus’
warning about their teaching, and Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Messiah.
Old Testament Reading:
Jeremiah 1:1-19
This passage recounts the calling of Jeremiah as a prophet, including God’s
promise to be with him and give him the words to speak amidst opposition.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the recognition of divine truth
and the bold proclamation of faith.
In Matthew 16, Peter recognizes Jesus as the Messiah, a divine revelation that forms the foundation of the church.
In Jeremiah 1, God calls and equips Jeremiah to speak His truth boldly, even in the face of opposition.
Both readings emphasize the importance of recognizing God’s truth and boldly proclaiming it, trusting in His guidance and support.
July 27th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 16:21-17:13
This passage describes Jesus foretelling His death and resurrection, Peter’s
rebuke, Jesus’ call to take up the cross, and the Transfiguration, revealing
Jesus’ divine glory.
Old Testament Reading:
Jonah 1:17-2:10
This passage recounts Jonah’s prayer of repentance and thanksgiving from the
belly of the fish, highlighting God’s deliverance and mercy.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of suffering, obedience,
and God’s redemptive plan.
In Matthew 16-17, Jesus foretells His suffering and calls His disciples to take up their cross, culminating in the Transfiguration, which affirms His divine mission.
In Jonah 1-2, Jonah acknowledges God’s mercy and deliverance, reflecting the hope that comes from obedience and trust in God’s plan.
Both readings highlight the tension between suffering and glory, illustrating God’s redemptive purposes in the midst of trials and obedience to His will.
August 3rd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 17:14-27
This passage recounts Jesus healing a demon-possessed boy, His teaching about
faith the size of a mustard seed, and His instruction to Peter to pay the temple
tax using a coin from a fish’s mouth.
Old Testament Reading:
Exodus 30:1-16
This passage describes the instructions for making the altar of incense and
collecting a census offering to atone for the lives of the Israelites,
emphasizing faith and provision in God’s commands.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of faith, provision, and
obedience to God’s instructions.
In Matthew 17, Jesus emphasizes the power of faith and miraculously provides the temple tax, demonstrating God’s care and provision.
In Exodus 30, God provides instructions for the census offering, underscoring His provision for His people’s atonement and relationship with Him.
Both readings highlight the importance of faith in God’s provision and obedience to His commands.
August 10th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 18:1-20
This passage includes Jesus’ teaching on humility using a child as an example,
the seriousness of causing others to sin, and the process for resolving
conflicts within the church.
Old Testament Reading:
Deuteronomy 19:1-21
This passage outlines instructions for establishing cities of refuge, dealing
with witnesses, and ensuring justice within the community.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of humility,
accountability, and justice within the community of God’s people.
In Matthew 18, Jesus emphasizes humility, the protection of the vulnerable, and the pursuit of reconciliation among believers.
In Deuteronomy 19, God provides guidelines for justice, including protecting the innocent and ensuring fair treatment in disputes.
Both readings underscore the importance of fostering a just, humble, and harmonious community that reflects God’s character.
August 17th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 18:21-35
This passage contains the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant, emphasizing the
necessity of forgiving others as God has forgiven us.
Old Testament Reading:
Genesis 4:13-24
This passage recounts Cain’s plea for mercy after murdering Abel and God’s mark
of protection on Cain, followed by the lineage of Cain and the spread of human
culture.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of mercy, forgiveness,
and the consequences of sin.
In Matthew 18, Jesus illustrates the importance of forgiving others as an essential response to God’s mercy.
In Genesis 4, despite Cain’s sin, God shows mercy by protecting him, while the passage also reveals the broader consequences of sin in human relationships.
Both readings highlight the significance of mercy and forgiveness in restoring relationships and avoiding the destructive cycle of sin.
August 24th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 19:1-15
This passage addresses Jesus’ teaching on marriage, divorce, and the blessing of
children, emphasizing God’s design for relationships and the value of humility.
Old Testament Reading:
Genesis 1:26-31
This passage describes the creation of humanity in God’s image, highlighting
their role in creation and God’s blessing on them.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of God’s design for
relationships and the value of human life.
In Matthew 19, Jesus reaffirms God’s original intent for marriage and the importance of valuing and welcoming children.
In Genesis 1, humanity is created in God’s image, emphasizing the inherent value and purpose of human relationships.
Both readings point to God’s plan for relationships that reflect His image and purposes, calling for respect and humility in our interactions with others.
August 31st, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 19:16-30
This passage contains the story of the rich young ruler, Jesus’ teaching on the
difficulty for the wealthy to enter the kingdom, and the promise of rewards for
those who leave everything to follow Him.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 52:1-9
This psalm contrasts the wickedness of those who trust in riches with the
steadfast love of God for those who trust in Him.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of trusting in God
rather than in wealth and the blessings of faithful devotion.
In Matthew 19, Jesus challenges the rich young ruler to let go of his attachment to wealth and place his trust in God to inherit eternal life.
In Psalms 52, the psalmist condemns those who trust in wealth and praises the steadfast love and faithfulness of God toward His people.
Both readings call for complete trust in God rather than material possessions, highlighting the eternal rewards for those who faithfully follow Him.
September 7th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 20:1-19
This passage contains the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, illustrating
God’s generosity and grace, followed by Jesus foretelling His suffering and
resurrection.
Old Testament Reading:
1 Chronicles 29:10-19
This passage features David’s prayer of praise, acknowledging God’s sovereignty,
generosity, and faithfulness in providing for the construction of the temple.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of God’s generosity,
grace, and provision.
In Matthew 20, Jesus uses the parable to teach about God’s gracious generosity, which surpasses human understanding and expectations.
In 1 Chronicles 29, David acknowledges God as the ultimate source of all blessings and expresses gratitude for His abundant provision.
Both readings emphasize God’s grace and generosity, calling His people to trust and praise Him for His provision.
September 14th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 20:20-34
This passage recounts the request of James and John for positions of honor,
Jesus’ teaching on servant leadership, and His healing of two blind men.
Old Testament Reading:
Micah 6:1-16
This passage contains God’s challenge to Israel to remember His faithfulness and
act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of humility, service,
and faithfulness.
In Matthew 20, Jesus teaches that greatness in His kingdom comes through humility and serving others, and He demonstrates compassion by healing the blind men.
In Micah 6, God calls His people to walk humbly with Him, live justly, and show mercy as an expression of true faithfulness.
Both readings highlight the importance of humility, service, and walking in obedience to God’s ways.
September 21st, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 21:1-22
This passage includes Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, His cleansing of
the temple, and His teaching on faith through the withered fig tree.
Old Testament Reading:
Zechariah 9:1-13
This passage prophesies the coming of a humble king riding on a donkey, bringing
peace and victory to God’s people, and delivering them from oppression.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the fulfillment of prophecy and
the demonstration of Jesus as the Messiah.
In Matthew 21, Jesus fulfills Zechariah’s prophecy by entering Jerusalem on a donkey, symbolizing His role as the humble King and Savior.
In Zechariah 9, the prophet foretells the coming of a king who will bring peace and salvation to God’s people.
Both readings emphasize Jesus as the fulfillment of God’s promises, bringing salvation and peace through His humility and authority.
September 28th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 21:23-46
This passage includes Jesus’ authority being questioned by religious leaders,
the Parable of the Two Sons, and the Parable of the Tenants, highlighting the
rejection of God’s messengers.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 118:1-24
This psalm praises God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, including the
declaration that the stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone, a
prophecy about the Messiah.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of rejection and God’s
ultimate plan of redemption.
In Matthew 21, Jesus teaches about the rejection of God’s messengers and Himself, the cornerstone, by the religious leaders.
In Psalms 118, the psalmist praises God for His faithfulness and declares the cornerstone prophecy, pointing to the Messiah’s pivotal role in God’s plan.
Both readings highlight the rejection of Jesus and God’s ultimate victory through Him, fulfilling His redemptive purposes.
October 5th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 22:1-22
This passage includes the Parable of the Wedding Banquet, which emphasizes the
call to respond to God’s invitation, and a discussion about paying taxes to
Caesar, highlighting wisdom in navigating faith and worldly obligations.
Old Testament Reading:
Proverbs 24:1-22
This passage contains wisdom teachings about avoiding envy of the wicked,
seeking knowledge and wisdom, and living with integrity and humility under God’s
sovereignty.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of responding to God’s call
and living wisely under His authority.
In Matthew 22, Jesus uses the parable to show the importance of responding to God’s invitation and emphasizes living with integrity in both spiritual and worldly matters.
In Proverbs 24, the focus is on pursuing wisdom, humility, and righteousness as part of a life that honors God.
Both readings encourage responding to God with wisdom and humility, aligning life’s priorities with His kingdom.
October 12th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 22:23-46
This passage includes Jesus’ responses to questions about the resurrection, the
greatest commandment, and the Messiah’s identity, highlighting the centrality of
love for God and others.
Old Testament Reading:
Deuteronomy 6:1-25
This passage contains the Shema, emphasizing the greatest commandment to love
the Lord with all one’s heart, soul, and strength, along with instructions to
teach God’s laws diligently to future generations.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the centrality of love for God and
obedience to His commandments.
In Matthew 22, Jesus identifies love for God and neighbor as the greatest commandments, drawing from the Shema and summing up the Law and the Prophets.
In Deuteronomy 6, the Shema emphasizes wholehearted devotion to God, calling His people to love Him and teach His ways to others.
Both readings highlight love as the foundation of a faithful relationship with God and as the guiding principle of His kingdom.
October 19th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 23:1-26
This passage includes Jesus’ critique of the Pharisees and scribes for their
hypocrisy, pride, and neglect of justice, mercy, and faithfulness while focusing
on outward appearances.
Old Testament Reading:
Proverbs 26:12-28
This passage offers warnings against pride, deceit, and hypocrisy, highlighting
the destructive consequences of dishonesty and the importance of wisdom and
integrity.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of hypocrisy, pride,
and the importance of integrity.
In Matthew 23, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their outward religiosity that masks inner corruption and neglect of true righteousness.
In Proverbs 26, the warnings against pride and deceit reinforce the danger of hypocrisy and emphasize living with integrity and wisdom.
Both readings call for genuine faith and righteous living that reflects God’s justice and mercy, rejecting hypocrisy and pride.
October 26th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 23:27-39
This passage continues Jesus’ rebuke of the Pharisees and scribes, emphasizing
their hypocrisy and spiritual blindness, and laments over Jerusalem’s rejection
of God’s messengers.
Old Testament Reading:
2 Chronicles 24:1-22
This passage recounts the reign of Joash, his initial faithfulness under the
guidance of Jehoiada, and his later rejection of God, which leads to the stoning
of the prophet Zechariah and God’s judgment.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of rejecting God’s
messengers and the consequences of spiritual unfaithfulness.
In Matthew 23, Jesus laments over Jerusalem for its repeated rejection of prophets and God’s call, foretelling judgment for their unfaithfulness.
In 2 Chronicles 24, Joash’s rejection of God’s guidance and persecution of His prophet results in judgment and loss.
Both readings emphasize the tragic consequences of rejecting God’s truth and the call to embrace His messengers and guidance with faithfulness.
November 2nd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 24:1-22
This passage includes Jesus’ teachings on the signs of the end times, warnings
about tribulation, and encouragement to endure faithfully during times of great
difficulty.
Old Testament Reading:
Daniel 9:17-27
This passage contains Daniel’s prayer for mercy and God’s response through the
prophecy of the seventy weeks, highlighting future tribulation and the coming of
the Anointed One.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of tribulation,
faithfulness, and the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan.
In Matthew 24, Jesus warns about future tribulations and calls His followers to remain vigilant and faithful.
In Daniel 9, the prophecy points to future events of tribulation and the coming of the Messiah, affirming God’s sovereign plan.
Both readings highlight God’s control over history and the call for His people to trust Him and endure during challenging times.
November 9th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 24:23-35
This passage describes Jesus’ warnings about false messiahs and signs of His
return, emphasizing the certainty of His coming and the enduring truth of His
words.
Old Testament Reading:
Isaiah 34:1-17
This passage speaks of God’s judgment on the nations, emphasizing His justice,
sovereignty, and the certainty of His promises.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the certainty of God’s plans and
the assurance of His justice.
In Matthew 24, Jesus assures His disciples of His return and warns against being deceived by false messiahs, affirming the reliability of His word.
In Isaiah 34, the prophecy describes God’s judgment on the nations, emphasizing the certainty of His decrees and His faithfulness to His promises.
Both readings point to the unshakable truth of God’s word and the assurance of His ultimate justice.
November 16th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 24:36-51
This passage emphasizes the unexpected nature of Jesus’ return, encouraging
vigilance, faithfulness, and readiness for the day of the Lord.
Old Testament Reading:
Genesis 7:1-24
This passage recounts the story of Noah entering the ark and the onset of the
flood, emphasizing God’s judgment on the wicked and the deliverance of the
righteous.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of vigilance,
preparedness, and God’s judgment.
In Matthew 24, Jesus likens the unexpectedness of His return to the days of Noah, calling His followers to live in readiness and faithfulness.
In Genesis 7, Noah’s preparedness and obedience lead to his deliverance, while the wicked face God’s judgment in the flood.
Both readings emphasize the importance of vigilance and faithfulness in anticipation of God’s intervention in human history.
November 23rd, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 25:1-30
This passage contains the Parables of the Ten Virgins and the Talents,
emphasizing readiness for the kingdom of heaven and faithful stewardship of
God’s gifts.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 34:1-22
This psalm celebrates God’s faithfulness in delivering the righteous and calls
His people to trust Him, seek His guidance, and live in righteousness.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of faithfulness, readiness,
and trust in God.
In Matthew 25, Jesus uses parables to teach about the need for vigilance and faithful stewardship in anticipation of His return.
In Psalms 34, the psalmist highlights God’s faithfulness in delivering those who trust and live righteously, encouraging readiness for His blessings.
Both readings encourage a life of trust, readiness, and faithful living in light of God’s promises.
November 30th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 25:31-46
This passage describes the final judgment, where Jesus separates the righteous
from the wicked based on their treatment of others, emphasizing acts of
compassion and justice as reflections of faith.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 37:1-17
This psalm contrasts the fate of the wicked with the blessings of the righteous,
encouraging trust in God’s justice and faithfulness.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of justice, compassion,
and the ultimate separation of the righteous and the wicked.
In Matthew 25, Jesus describes how acts of compassion toward others reflect genuine faith and determine one’s place in the final judgment.
In Psalms 37, the psalmist reassures the faithful of God’s justice and the ultimate triumph of righteousness over wickedness.
Both readings emphasize living with compassion and trust in God’s justice, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of His righteous plans.
December 7th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 26:1-25
This passage describes Jesus foretelling His crucifixion, the plot to arrest
Him, the anointing at Bethany, Judas’ betrayal, and the preparation for the Last
Supper.
Old Testament Reading:
Zechariah 11:1-17
This passage contains prophecies about unfaithful shepherds and the betrayal of
God’s chosen leader for thirty pieces of silver, pointing to the Messiah.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in the themes of betrayal and God’s
redemptive plan.
In Matthew 26, Judas betrays Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah about the rejection of the shepherd.
In Zechariah 11, the betrayal of the shepherd reflects the rejection of God’s chosen leader, foreshadowing Jesus’ betrayal and crucifixion.
Both readings highlight God’s sovereign plan of redemption through the Messiah, despite human betrayal.
December 14th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 26:26-46
This passage recounts the institution of the Lord’s Supper, Jesus’ prediction of
Peter’s denial, and His prayer in Gethsemane, emphasizing His submission to the
Father’s will.
Old Testament Reading:
Zechariah 13:1-9
This passage describes the purification of God’s people, the striking of the
shepherd, and the refining of the remnant, pointing to the Messiah’s role in
redemption.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of sacrifice, purification,
and submission to God’s plan.
In Matthew 26, Jesus prepares for His ultimate sacrifice, submitting to God’s will in Gethsemane and instituting the new covenant through His blood.
In Zechariah 13, the striking of the shepherd and the purification of the remnant reflect Jesus’ sacrificial role in redeeming humanity.
Both readings emphasize Jesus’ obedience and the redemptive purpose of His suffering for the purification of His people.
December 21st, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 26:47-58
This passage describes Jesus’ betrayal and arrest in Gethsemane, His response to
Judas, and the flight of the disciples.
Old Testament Reading:
Psalms 41:1-13
This psalm reflects David’s plea for deliverance amidst betrayal and suffering,
foreshadowing the betrayal of Jesus by Judas.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of betrayal, trust in God,
and deliverance.
In Matthew 26, Jesus is betrayed by Judas and arrested, fulfilling prophecies about the Messiah’s suffering.
In Psalms 41, the psalmist laments betrayal but expresses trust in God’s deliverance, foreshadowing Jesus’ response to His betrayal.
Both readings highlight the pain of betrayal and the importance of trusting God’s sovereign plan for redemption.
December 28th, 2025
New Testament Reading:
Matthew 26:59-75
This passage recounts Jesus’ trial before the Sanhedrin, the false testimony
against Him, and Peter’s denial of Jesus as foretold.
Old Testament Reading:
Daniel 7:9-14
This passage describes Daniel’s vision of the Ancient of Days and the Son of
Man, who is given dominion, glory, and an everlasting kingdom.
Possible Connection:
The connection between these readings lies in themes of Jesus’ identity as the
Son of Man and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.
In Matthew 26, Jesus identifies Himself as the Son of Man during His trial, pointing to Daniel’s prophecy about His ultimate authority and glory.
In Daniel 7, the vision of the Son of Man receiving an everlasting kingdom foreshadows Jesus’ role as the Messiah who will reign eternally.
Both readings affirm Jesus’ divine identity and His ultimate victory despite the humiliation and suffering He endures.