Monastische Gemeinschaften von Jerusalem | Köln

Wortgottesdienst inkl. Predigt (Pfr. Thomas Frings) | 25.01.26 | 3. Sonntag im Jahreskreis | Jerusalemgemeinschaften

·42 min·4 clips

Why does Jesus use a different word for repentance than John the Baptist, changing it from moral reform to transforming your thinking?

The episode is a sermon by Father Thomas Frings, part of a word of God service from the Monastic Communities of Jerusalem in Cologne. It begins with the liturgical greeting and the reading of Matthew 4:12-23, which describes Jesus beginning his ministry in Galilee after John the Baptist's arrest, calling disciples, and preaching. Frings structures his analysis into three parts: the end of John the Baptist, the localization of Jesus in Galilee, and the first proclamation and calling. He notes the word 'handed over' used for John foreshadows Jesus's passion. Frings explains that Galilee, specifically the lands of Zebulun and Naphtali, is called 'pagan Galilee' because it was part of the northern kingdom of Israel that strayed from God's ways. Jesus's choice to go there signals his mission to Jews and Gentiles. Matthew quotes Isaiah about light shining on people in darkness, indicating inclusivity. Frings highlights that Matthew omits an audience for Jesus's first sermon ('Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near'), implying it addresses the current listeners. He contrasts Jesus's call for repentance—changing one's thinking—with John the Baptist's moral call. The 'kingdom of heaven' is translated as 'realm of the heavens,' meaning it's present on earth through Jesus, not a future event from above. Frings discusses the calling of Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John, noting the 'immediately' they follow but often misunderstand, which he finds relieving. He explains Jesus calls fishermen, not shepherds, to gather a new community. The sermon concludes with Jesus's threefold ministry: teaching in synagoges, proclaiming to the people, and healing. Frings applies this to the congregation's role and includes intercessory prayers for the homeless, persecuted Christians, and the deceased.

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