Theme: Warning against religious hypocrisy. The conflict continues between Jesus and the religious leaders (Matthew 23:1-12). The Lutheran lections are tied together by an eschatological theme.

COMMENTARY

Old Testament: Joshua 3:7-17
The Hebrews are ready to cross the Jordan to take possession of the new land, under the leadership of Joshua. God commands the priests to take the Ark of the Covenant and walk into the river. When they do so, the waters heap up so that the people can cross over on dry land. This is a repeat of the crossing of the Red Sea under Moses, at the start of their journey, and serves as a sign of God's deliverance.

Old Testament: Malachi 1:14 2:2, 8-10
The prophet condemns the priests because they have turned aside from the way of the Lord, leading the people astray…