OUR SERMONS

 

FAITHFULNESS BORN AND BORNE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Scripture Passage: Galatians 5: 22-26; Deut 32:3-4    Defining Faithfulness (pistis) in secular antiquity referred to a guarantee (warranty). In Scripture, faith is God's warranty, certifying that the revelation He inbirthed will come to pass (His way). •The reception of the believer by Christ, is presented in these words, “Well done, good and faithful servant…” (Matt 25) •It is often a character trait of dependability and trustworthiness, but it also has the aspect of ‘the long haul’.   The....

Goodness Born and Borne of the Holy Spirit

Scripture Passage 5:22-26; 6:9-10   Defining Goodness Gk agathosune: goodness intrinsic goodness, especially as a personal quality, with stress on the kindly (rather than the righteous) side of goodness.  “Goodness” is closely related to kindness. The usage of the verb ‘good’ is used by us for describe someone who often has shown attributes of grace and generosity “Good Samaritan”, beyond just competence. It is simply that the person is dependable, an aspect of transparency. No hidden agenda.....

KINDNESS BORN AND BORNE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Scripture: Galatians 5: 19-26 Opposites of the Fruit of the Spirit Love Indifference Joy Hopelessness Peace Anxiety Patience/Forebearnace Arrogance Kindness Selfishness   Defining Kindness xrēstótēs ("divine kindness") is the Spirit-produced goodness which meets the need and avoids human harshness (cruelty) Overarching the fruit of the Spirit are Paul’s two statements in Gal 5: •Freedom in Christ (v.1) •Serve one another in love (v.13b) •“Love is patient, Love is kind” (1 Cor 13:4) •Kindness is....

PATIENCE BORN AND BORNE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Scripture Passage: Gal 5:19-26 Defining Patience as a Fruit In Gk the word is makrothymía (from 3117 /makrós, "long" and 2372 /thymós, "passion, anger") – properly, long-passion, i.e. waiting sufficient time before expressing anger. This avoids the premature use of force (retribution) that rises out of improper anger (a personal reaction). •Paul is referring to a non-English word ‘long- tempered’ •It means: •endure for a long time, showing perseverance without retaliation or revenge •to put up....

Peace Born and Borne Of The Holy Spirit

Scripture Reading Gal 5:22 The source and maker of Peace •As in the Aaronic blessing the source is in God himself •There is the Father’s initiative, achieved in Christ his Son and worked through the Holy Spirit for the Salvation of humankind •Only peace with God is experienced (justification), does the peace of God proceed to make itself evident as a fruit of the Spirit Rom 5:1,10; Rom 8:5-8   What is the Peace of God? •The opposite of Godly peace is anxiety •Jesus speaks of a peace that is not....

JOY BORN AND BORNE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Scripture Passage: Galatians 5:13-26   Joy Across the Bible •‘Joy’ as seen in the OT and NT •In Jesus’ teachings we see it in the parables (e.g.Mt 13; Lk 15) •It’s a defining character of the KoG (Rom 14:17) •Jesus desired for joy to be an integral part of the God’s vineyard…complete joy (Jn 15) •Joy is preceded by love received and love to be pursued, love that remains through obedience   The source and understanding of Joy •What brings us ‘joy’?...family, friends, worship •The joy that Jesus....

LOVE BORN AND BORNE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Scripture Passage: Gal 5:13-26   What is this Love (Agape)? •It is an outward expression of a love that has been, is being and will be experienced in the Triune God by the believer •It is not sentimental but active in caring, supporting, encouraging, providing even when it hurts or costs to do so •It is about the giver and not so much about the worthiness of the recipient (Rom 5:8) •Its not just Paul but even John and James emphasize this aspect (e.g. 1 Jn 3:17-18; 4:11-12; Js 2:14 ff) Why is....

Christian Sanctification: To Walk-To Be Led-To Keep In Step

Scripture Passage: Galatians 5: 13-26 (NIV)  The Context •Paul is writing to many ‘ekklesia’- called out    (Gal 1:2; Acts 13-14) •Trouble was brewing in these churches, Why? •Some messianic Jews were misleading the Gentiles that they were incomplete in their conversion (Ch 3:1-3) •Paul vehemently argues his case •He argues via his apostleship (Ch 1) •His hiatus in Arabia (Ch 2) •His acceptance among the Apostolic authority (Ch 2:9-10) and Doctrinally (2:1-5;3:11-14)  Freedom In Christ •Paul....

A BIRTH THAT THREATENED A KING

Scripture: Matthew 2:1-18   The Background §Matthew’s account of Christ’s birth unlike Luke is somber, with threat and murder §In this account there is a seeking group of wisemen whose journey has been long but whose enthusiasm cannot be curtailed §However, in some way the story has a spoilsport- King Herod   A CLOSER LOOK AT KING HEROD •Called as Herod ‘The Great’, he was Idumean •The history between Edom and Israel always was engaged in battle •Palestine of Jesus’ time was under constant....

The Psalm Of Simeon

Scripture: Luke 2:21-35   Bring To Memory §Two significant events in the opening chapters of Genesis: Creation & The Fall and The Flood §We considered the context of Sin…The Garden of Eden…Sin…The Flood…the enormity and extent of Sin §We considered the consequence of Sin…Curse…Adam & Eve expelled…The Flood…the whole world destroyed except those on the Ark §Bethlehem was then giving the cure for Sin and it’s curse…in Jesus Christ and his work   The Background §There was a census that led Joseph....

The Ark That Rescues

Scripture Passage: Genesis 6:9-13,17-18;8:20-22;9:9-11; Luke 1:30-35; 1 Peter 3:18-22   The Journey So Far: §God’s intention for humanity was a close trusting relationship with him and a harmonious relationship with the rest of creation §Lost fellowship with God and the good things God intended for them to enjoy living in obedience to him §God not only covers their shame, he has in there an opportunity of redemption (Gen 3:20-23) §This prelude of Eden is embraced in the now and here....

The Genesis of Bethlehem

Scripture: Genesis 3:8-15; Luke 3:23, 38; Matt 1:20-23 Looking Back At Eden God’s intention for humanity was a close trusting relationship with him and a harmonious relationship with the rest of creation A God’s image bearers man and woman would be significant, decision-making, world-shaping beings It was not just where Adam and Eve would dwell but a place where God himself would tabernacle What Happened To This Purpose?   Our human parents (Adam & Eve) chose to make a life of their own Their....

Jabez’s Prayer to Extend God’s Territory

Text: I Chronicles 4: 9-10 Authorship, Date, Background, and Purpose of Chronicles An Ancient tradition ascribes the authorship of Chronicles to Ezra A growing consensus dates Chronicles in the latter half of fifth century BC Israelites had just returned from exile at the time of writing this book The burning issue was the question of continuity with the past Is God still in force? Are His covenants still in force? The author in his message emphasises on the importance of repentance, obedience,....

Living As The Children Of Light

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5 Journey with letter so far… •The Mimic and The Model For Jesus Christ •The Way Of The Messenger Impacts The Message •A Faith That Suffers- Yet A Faith That Grows •CHRIST’S RETURN- A STIMULUS FOR HOLINESS AND ENDURANCE   Active Patience •Paul quotes 2 phrases- found in the OT and NT      ( Joel 2:31; Amos 5:18;  Lk12:39; Rev 16:15) •While he speaks of the church being aware of a truth he does give a context around which it will occur •For Paul such understanding....

CHRIST’S RETURN- A STIMULUS FOR HOLINESS AND ENDURANCE

Scripture Passage: 1 Thessalonians 4: 3-8, 13-17 Instruction Zone- Sexual Purity •Paul prays for love to be in overflow among the believers and that they be strengthened to live blameless and holy lives until Christ’s return (3:12-13) •Timothy’s report seems to warrant exhortation to the believers with reference to Godly living •Thessaloníkē- Las Vegas of its time • The perversion of the church through sexual immorality was a genuine threat and Paul was much concerned •Their election came with....

A Faith That Suffers- Yet A Faith That Grows

Scripture Reading: 1 Thessalonians 3   The Urgency & The Need •Paul has expressed that he sees Satan’s hand in preventing his travel to Thessalonica •But his persistence in love for them makes them (Paul and Silas) send Timothy to inquire. Opposite of love is indifference (TK). •The preaching of Paul declared the truth of suffering for the sake of the Gospel •Paul had a fear that the trials and tribulations may have caused this infant church to fall back •Just because Paul was appointed by....

The Way Of The Messenger Impacts The Message

Scripture Passage: 1 Thessalonians 2  The Child •Paul reminds the church about his journey into and out of Thessalonica, for the sake of the Gospel (Acts 16 &17) •Paul seems to have been accused of being cowardly and preaching the Gospel for personal gain. •He defends the accusation, by saying: •Not with impure motives •Not with trickery or masks •Not as people pleasers •Not with flattery • What could have been a right- is contrasted in childlike character- innocent and non-manipulative   The....

The Relevance of “Follow Me” in our Present Times

Scripture Passage: Matthew 9: 9-13 Following •To follow is not new •Jesus said “Follow Me” •Look at aspects of this calling: •In the life of Matthew •Through Jesus •In the life of early believer, Paul Matthew, the Tax Collector •Jesus said “Follow Me” so he arose and followed Him! •Gave a Great Feast (Luke 5:29) •Believed Jesus has the Power to Forgive Sins •Called other tax collectors and sinners •Identified himself as “Matthew, the Tax Collector” •Possibly, Jesus used Matthew’s conversion in....

The Mimic and The Model For Jesus Christ

Scripture Passage: 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 Background •Plausibly one of the earliest letters of Paul, around 50-52 AD, while he was in Corinth •The church was planted during Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 17) •The city had a port and was the chief city of Macedonia, today the 2nd largest city in Greece (Thessaloniki) •Recipients- a large number of Gentile converts and few Jews •Occasion- Timothy brings in a report to which Paul responds (1 Th 3:5-7) The Team •Paul had enough and more to....
Oct 6

DOMINION’S CHANGE WHEN RULERS CHANGE

Scripture Reading: Romans 6:1-14 Sola Fide- Salvation By Faith Alone •31 October 1517, celebrates the beginning of Reformation movement •It is the book of Romans that springs forth the aspect of ‘Justification By Faith’ •God made the unrighteous righteous through various sacraments- works based •But Luther recognizes that actually it is a righteousness that is given/imparted graciously (Rom 1:17; 3:26) •It is alien and outside of me, it rightly belongs to someone else- Jesus Christ Where Does....

FAITH THAT EVIDENCES REDEMPTIVE FAVOUR

Scripture Reading: Ruth 4:5-10, Lev 25:25 & Deut 25:5-10 Names That Matter •Bethlehem- House of Bread •Elimelek- My God is King •Naomi- Sweetness/Pleasant •Mahlon- Sickness •Kilion- Failing •Ruth- Friendship or Female Companionship •Orpah- She who turns back •Boaz- In him is strength •Ephrathah- Fruitful •Obed- Serving/Worshipping The Journey From and Into Bethlehem •A family leave in search of bread…life •A family in distress •Two individuals with no family status return in search of....

FAITH THAT EXPERIENCES REDEMPTIVE FAVOUR

Scripture Reading: Ruth 2:1-10 & 3:1-10   From the previous Sunday in the names that mattered list we had not introduced Boaz. Boaz means, "In him is strength" Getting Noticed & Getting Favored •The barley harvest is on, and Ruth wants to get at work to get necessary bread for survival •To us is introduced Boaz a man of standing from the clan of Elimelek! •Ruth’s presence in the field captures Boaz’s eye, and he is given a report by the manager •A conversation ensues in which there is honor,....

Faith That Cleaved To The Least Option

Scripture Passage: Ruth 1 Background •One of the only two books named after women in the Bible, the only one named after a non-Jewish woman •The place of the book in the Canon of Scripture…Hebrew and Greek •It is scheduled to be read at the Jewish Festival of Pentecost •Somewhere around 1100 BC…Samuel or Tamar??...written during or after David’s reign Names That Matter •Bethlehem- House of Bread •Elimelek- My God is King •Naomi- Sweetness/Pleasant •Mahlon- Sickness •Kilion- Failing •Ruth-....

THE ‘I AM’ OF THE WINDS AND THE WATERS

Scripture Passage: Matthew 14:22-33, Parallel Texts: Mk 6:45-56; Jn 6:16-24 Background •All 4 Gospel accounts capture the ‘Feeding of the 5000’ •Luke, does not include this incident but each of the other 3 accounts give a coherent tapestry to this incident •A ‘Mega Event’ has occurred, physical exhaustion was but obvious, cleaning up after 5000 people have eaten! Distant Yet Concerned •Jesus’ task for his earthly ministry was cut out. Not much time at hand and he was on the move (Mt 4:23-25)....

The Eye Opener

Scripture Passage: Jn 9:1-12 & 35-41 Background •John’s Gospel is spattered around with the metaphors of light and darkness (e.g. Jn 1, Jn 3, Jn 8, Jn 12) •Jesus is not a wanted person in and around Jerusalem (Jn 7:12,13; 8:59) •But he is also a ‘wanted’ person in Jerusalem (Jn 7:30) Blind Who? Blind Why? •Jesus is on the streets of Jerusalem and there ‘happens’ to be a blind man…un-named •An inquiry from the disciples about the man’s predicament ensues •Jesus’ response is neither of the....

KINGDOM CITIZENSHIP IMPACTING EARTHLY CITIZENSHIP

Scripture Passage: Matt 22:15-22 (NIV, parallel texts Mk 12 & Lk 20)   Background:  •Jesus is a Rabbi of much repute, his teachings had caught peoples attention and his miraculous powers had furthered his legislation among the people of Israel  (Matthew inclines towards asserting Christ as King) •According to the Talmud 613 mitzvot are in the Torah, 248 positive ("thou shalt") mitzvot and 365 negative ("thou shalt not") mitzvot •The word halakha is derived from the Hebrew root halakh – "to....

Decoding the Storm In Galilee

Mark 4:35-41   Context •Mark asserts who he is writing about and bases it on a prophecy. Why? (Mk 1:1,2) •The text has parallels in Matt 8 and Lk 8 •In Mark we meet a Jesus who seems not want his true identity revealed (e.g. Mk 1:34; 8:30) •At the Cross a gentile speaks of what Mark asserts in the beginning (Mk 15:39) The Scene at Galilee  •Its evening, end of a tiring day for Jesus…teaching and healing •He entrusts his disciples to take him to the other side •They are not the only boats....

The Finger That Refused To Condemn

Scripture Passage: Jn 7:53-8:11   Context •John gives an eternal perspective to Jesus’ incarnate nature (Jn 1;Ps 33:6) •The incarnate Jesus was not just the ‘Son of God’ but would also be the ‘Lamb of God’ (Jn 1:18; 29) •Packaged in Jesus is Grace and Truth (Jn 1:14,17) •Also in Jesus is God given authority to judge…(Jn 5:22,27) The Trap & The Bait •The Pharisees were having a tough time with Jesus teaching the people •They sent a set of Temple guards who returned stunned •Nicodemus speaks to....

When Sinless Hands Touched Sinful Feet

Scripture Passage: John 13:1-17 Context •John gives an eternal perspective to Jesus’ incarnate nature (Jn 1) •The incarnate Jesus was not just the ‘Son of God’ but would also be the ‘Lamb of God’ (Jn 1:18; 29) •Ch 12 concludes with Jesus’ rejection and Jesus’ mission accomplished •Ch 13 forwards opens for us a section in the Gospel…”Book of Glory” The Appointed Time •The Passover feast was a time of ingathering for the Jews, acknowledging God’s mighty work in the past and anticipating it in the....

WHEN GOD’s MERCY AND GRACE GIVES SECOND INVITATIONS

Scripture Passage: Jonah 4   RECAP •When God Pursues with Mercy (Ch1):Decipher the Mercy received and determine the path to obedience in Christ •When God Rejoices in Repentance (Ch2): Repent and Return to the God whose prodigal-ity cannot be compared with  •When God’s Mercies Moves Beyond Boundaries (Ch 3): Consider your missionary role and missional footprint in the Kingdom Work God Is Put In the Question Box •Jonah’s rage reveals more than just emotion •“God I knew I could’nt trust you in....

WHEN GOD’s MERCY MOVES BEYOND BOUNDARIES

Scripture Passage: Jonah 3   Recap: 793 BC…Jeroboam II (2 Kgs 14)…Nineveh 759 BC? Just before Amos and Hosea…a period of economic prosperity in Israel but spiritual poverty Assyria was the dominant military force When God Pursues with Mercy (Ch1) When God Rejoices in Repentance (Ch2) Second Chance: Same God, Same Mandate: •The Lord speaks a second time…Get up and Go •The message nor the messenger nor the recipient of the message have changed •But Jonah has in someway…he obeys…God uses....

Christian Living, A Living Christian

Scripture Passage: Rom 12:1-2 Recap & Introduction •“The Just shall live by Faith”: The Word of God that is True over the centuries •God’s Glory, His Presence and His characteristics of Mercy and Justice •To be Justified, To Live and To be Faithful •We who have been Justified and in whom God has authored Faith are called to Live a Faithful Life Christian Living – Rom 12:1 •I urge you •Therefore, in view of God’s mercy •God calls us to do something only after providing for the calling •Offer....

Knowing the Author of our Salvation

Scripture: Romans 1:16-17 Introduction •Three men from the History •One verse used three times centuries apart and continues to declare the Gospel •The key words to the Holy Bible are God, His Glory, our Gospel * •God’s Glory is revealed very vividly in two places in the Bible •Isaiah 6:1-7 •Revelation 4:2-11 Our God is the same Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow •Paul in Romans goes into great depths to explain the Gospel •Paul is writes this letter to the Church in Rome •So, what is this....

WHEN GOD REJOICES IN REPENTANCE

Scripture: Jonah 2 The Swallowing •The Lord provides supernaturally for Jonah’s rescue •Jonah’s residence for the next 3 D/N was not a resort but the belly of the fish! •The uncommonness of this miraculous catch by the creator God had an uncommon goal • Jonah… return! The Lodging •Jonah does something he had not done so far…Pray •He visualizes his predicament and knows there is no way out, except YHWH •He had turned his face away in running to Tarshish now he turns his face towards the Holy....

WHEN GOD PURSUES WITH MERCY

Scripture: Jonah 1 Context Of The Book: •Canonical: Minor Prophet •A prophet in the time of Jeroboam II- N Kingdom (780 BC; 2 Kgs 14:25) •Contemporary to Amos, Hosea and Micah •Assyrians were gaining territory and a threat to the N Kingdom (the kings recorded the grisly details of their conquests) Going The Opposite Way •God speaks but Jonah decides on obedience to Gods instruction •Jonah cannot come to terms with God’s instruction (Nahum 3:1-7) •Jonah doubted the goodness, wisdom and justice....

Everyone Is Precious In the Sight Of God

Scripture: Mk 5:1-20 Introduction •Mark: Earliest of the Synoptic Gospels •Matthew, Mark and Luke present the “Good News” that centers on the Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus •Matthew and Luke begin with genealogies while Mark is quick to enter with the “Good News” Context •Geography: Near the Sea of Galilee •People: Largely Gentiles •Jesus’ entry into this region marked crossing religious, cultural, political and ethnic boundaries Problem •A disastrous and pitiful state of human life....

Laodecia: A church in which Jesus needed to re-enter

Rev 3:14-22 Laodecia (today known as Eskihisar) 1. Named by Antiochus II after his wife Laodice 2. Was famous for banking and its black wool 3. Was a rich city and did not take any help from Rome to rebuild after a major earthquake around 60 AD 4. It had a major issue with its water supply, on one side it had hot springs and the other side it water that was cold, but for the city itself it was unpalatable and would cause vomiting 5. The city was also famous for its eye and ear treatments The....

Philadelphia: Little Strength backed by a Great God

Rev 3:7-13 PHILADELPHIA THE CITY (known as Alasehir) •Founded in 189 BC, youngest of the 7- ‘brotherly love’ •Known for its luxuriant vineyards •Dionysus: primary deity •Prone to major earthquakes, AD 17 was one such earthquake… ‘Neo Caesarea’ •Considered as a ‘missionary city’, promoting Greek culture and language towards the east Commendation (vv.7-9) •Jesus and the imageries: •Holy- ‘The Son of the Holy One’ •True- Genuine and not Fake •Key of David- Authority over the house of David (Is....

SARDIS: GODLY ON THE OUTSIDE GODLESS ON THE INSIDE

Scripture Rev 3:1-6 SARDIS THE CITY (known as Sart) •King Croesus, 560 BC, Capital of the Lydian Empire •River Pactolus and King Midas •Production of Woolen and dyed cloth, coins were first minted here •Last city on the Royal Road, Temple of Artemis, Worship of Cybele •Known for its softness and luxury, apathy and immorality Concern (v.1) •Jesus uses two imageries…7 Stars and & 7 Spirits (Rev 5:6) •God the Father: Giver of the Message, Jesus: Holder of the Message and the Holy Spirit: The....

THYATIRA: A CHURCH TOLERANT OF SEDUCTION WITHIN

Scripture Passage: Rev 2:18-29 THYATIRA THE CITY (known as Akhisar)THYATIRA THE CITY (known as Akhisar) •A small city with the longest letter •A garrison, established in the time of Alexander, Caesars Elite Guard •Emperor Worship: Apollo/Zeus •Shrine of goddess Samathe •‘Trade-Guild’: Agriculture, linen, metal, leather, bakers and potters •Lydia (Acts 16:14) Commendation (vv. 18-19) •Only place in the NT where Jesus introduces himself as the ‘Son of God’ •Blazing Eyes and Feet of Burnished....
May 12

The Church Called To Live An Un-compromised Life

Scripture Passage: Rev 2:12-17 PERGAMUM THE CITY (known as Bergama) •North East of Smyrna- inland, a natural fortress •Capital of Asia for 300 years •Zeus, Athena, Dionysus, Asklepius, Demetra •A Large amphitheater and a large library (200,000 scrolls) •Parchment originates from here •Caesar worship was intense… 29 BC Commendation (vv. 12-13) •North East of Smyrna- inland, a natural fortress •Capital of Asia for 300 years •Zeus, Athena, Dionysus, Asklepius, Demetra •A Large amphitheater and a....

Hold On It's Not The End

Scripture Passage: Rev 2:8-11   SMYRNA THE CITY (known as Izmir, today) •Only city to exist today of the 7 •~ 70 km from Ephesus •The city was known for its buildings and architecture •A free city just like Ephesus •Also had a harbor like Ephesus •Known for Myrrh •Temples to Zeus and Apollos and others, Emperor Worship Current State Of Affairs (vv. 8-9) •Jesus introduces himself  (1:7; 17 b, 22:13) •Dead and back to life again •In contrast to the wealth of the city the church was poor •No....
Apr 29

FALLING IN LOVE AGAIN WITH JESUS

Scripture Rev 2:1-7 Background •Apocalytic…bringing to light…unveiling •Forth-telling or Fore-telling? •Revelation…letter or book? (1:11) •John is in exile, 90-95 AD…Domitian is Caesar (1:9) •Situation of Jews and Christians under Rome •The letter for one is also for all Church at Ephesus •Ephesus…a famous city (Acts 19) •Paul, Aquilla, Priscilla, Timothy and John •A lot the NT writing has connections with this church •This is the first church closest to Patmos and probably first to receive the....

The Empty Tomb: Dead Or Alive?

Scripture Passage: 1 Cor 15:12-33 Background: •Paul is writing in 52-54 AD •Paul is having to deal with several issues in Corinth…law suits, spiritual gifts, lack of respect at the Lord’s table, sexual immorality and food offered to idols etc •Paul visited Corinth in his second missionary journey and then moved to Ephesus The Foundation : •A major theme of the whole of Ch 15 is the resurrection •He reminds the church of what he preached and its purpose (15:1) •He confirms Scriptural fulfillment....

Thorns for a Crown a Cross for a Throne

Scripture Passage: Luke 23 : 26-43 (NIV) (Parallel passages Matt 27; MK 15; John 19) Background •Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem a few days earlier was celebrated •But the religious establishment was not too impressed, it threatened their identity •The temple incident was ‘the last nail in the coffin’ •Jesus has been called in to stand trial with a ‘Kangaroo Court’ •He has faced Herod and Pilate WALKING THE VIA DOLOROSA TO GOLGOTHA •Jesus needed help! •The Wailing Women of Jerusalem (Hosea 10:8;....

JESUS’ ROADSHOW IN JERUSALEM!

BACKGROUND •Jesus was moving from Jericho towards Jerusalem •Primary ministry was in Galilee, Samaria and Nazareth (Lk 9:51) •10th & 14th Day of the month of Nisan •Except for Jesus everyone else was unaware of their actions in some sense!   THE 5 POINT NAZARETH MANIFESTO •Good News To The Poor •Freedom For the Prisoners •Sight for the Blind •Setting the Oppressed Free •Proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor  (Lk 4: 16-19; Is 61:1-2) Jesus carried out each of this tasks in his earthly ministry  ....

Peter: The Weak Rock!

Matthew 26:31-35; 69-75   Background •Introduced to Jesus by Andrew •Belonging to the fishing community in Galilee •Was Married •primus inter pares- first among equals •Symeon-Simon; Cephas-Peter •Gospel of Mark, 1 & 2 Peter   Peter’s Denial •He declared Jesus as Messiah (Mt 16) •He was the one who wielded the sword - courage •The Courtyard- Jesus v/s Peter •Wept Bitterly- He failed and failed bad…“The rock…now sobbing like a blob of jelly”   The Reality of Success •Success is overrated....

The Greatest Command- The Command To Love

Scripture: Matthew 12:28-34 Introduction: •What is Love? •Movies are a reflection of what society largely thinks •Is Love a higher degree of Like? •What does the Word (Bible) say about Love? •Philia, Eros, Storge •Agape – God’s Divine Love; Love demonstrated through Actions * •Agape from God’s perspective and Our perspective •Gospel writers account of Jesus’ mention about Love  Matt 22:37 – 40; Mark 12:29 – 31; Luke 10:25 – 28; John 13:31 – 35 God's Love •God’s commands summarised into two....

RESCUED TO RECALL AND REJOICE- CELEBRATING THE LORD’s TABLE

Scripture Matthew 26:17-30   Context of the Passover Meal •Jesus is wanted by the…Pharisees and the Romans are watching •Jesus is in Bethany and its Passover •Sandwiched between betrayal and denial WHEN GOD SET THE TABLE HIMSELF •The Passover was to be eaten within the city walls of Jerusalem and using a ritually slaughtered lamb •Mk 14…Jesus apparently has something arranged and gives instructions to the disciples RECALL AS A RESCUED PEOPLE •This was a memorial meal that signified Israel’s....

A PRAYING, PRAISING AND CONFESSIONAL LIFE OF A CHRISTIAN

Scripture: James 5:13-20 WHAT DOES LIFE HOLD FOR THE CHRISTIAN? James in addressing the church is indicating that despite being the church of the first generation pentecost, it did not mean an easy life. While asking them to be patient and enduring of the days of their life he asks questions to each of which the answer is 'Yes' in the immediate or in the days to come. •Trouble…properly, experiencing painful hardship (suffering) that seems to be a "setback" but really isn't (2 Tim 2:8,9; 4:5)....

RESPECT THAT IS CHARACTERISTIC OF THE GOSPEL

Scripture Passage: James 1:26-2:13 The word used to speak of partiality is...prosópolémpsia: respect of persons: partiality, the fault of one who when called on to requite or to give judgment has respect to the outward circumstances of men and not to their intrinsic merits, and so prefers, as the more worthy, one who is rich, high-born, or powerful, to another who is destitute of such gifts: The references below give an understanding of God's view on relationships between the have's and the....

Judgement that is cradled in the Gospel of Jesus Christ

Scripture Passage: James 4:11-12; Matthew 7:1-6; James 2:12-13,5:9 The Road So Far with James •Christians are born of the word of truth (1:18) •We are called by virtue of such a birth to be maturing in faith (1: 21,22) •A perspective of Trials and Temptations (1:2-18) •Lack of Faith in Action is lack of maturity (2:14-25) •We are capable of being the same people we were before we knew Christ (3:9-12;4:1-4) In submitting to God we mature…maturity seeks to resist that which God detests and also....

Responding to Conflict ‘Within’ and ‘Without’- A Gospel Centered Approach

Scripture Passage: James 4:1-10 The Origin of Quarrels and Conflict •They originate not outside of us but within us •They arise because of misguided fallen nature •Prayer- involves asking for what we do not have, but we do not receive what we ask because they are in conflict with God’s will for our lives   Worldly Influence and Indulgence •James up’s the heat (Js 1:27) •He accuses the believers of adultery (Believers, the church as Christ's Bride) •The imagery is a draw from the OT (e.g. Hosea....
Feb 17

Jude- Contend for the Faith

Scripture: Jude About Jude and his Epistle… About the Author, Jude Bondservant of Jesus Christ Brother of James and Half Brother of Jesus Christ Jude not Judas, why? Why this book? Urgent call to recognize False Teachers V 4 - Certain men have secretly crept into our midst They are Godless; turn God’s Grace into license for immorality and Deny Jesus Christ our only sovereign and Lord Why this book?Contend for the Faith Relevance for us-This issue was observed in 1st Century and now it is even....

Anger: Gospel Managed

Scirpture Passage: James 1:18-21   ANGER- A GOD GIVEN EMOTION "Anger is an intense emotional state. It involves a strong uncomfortable and hostile response to a perceived provocation, hurt or threat."  •TO BE MADE IN THE IMAGE OF GOD IS TO HAVE THE EMOTION OF ANGER •IT IS SOMETHING THAT IS SEEN IN THE TRIUNE NATURE- THE FATHER, SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT (EX 34:7) •IT IS A VECTOR, HAVING DIRECTION AND MAGNITUDE  •TO NOT GET ANGRY AT ALL AND TO BILLOW IN ANGER DO NOT EXPRESS THE IMAGE OF GOD GOD’s....

A GOSPEL OUTLOOK AT THE 2 T’s: TRIALS AND TEMPTATIONS (PART-2)

Scripture Passage: James 1:13-18 GOD AND TEMPTATION •“Every trial consists in a temptation to lose faith; and every temptation consists in a trial of faith” •The source of temptation is not God •It violates his nature as God if he can be tempted or if he tempts someone DESIRE AND IT’S LIFE CYCLE •The inclining towards temptation arises because of a fallen nature in our ‘desire’ •This undealt resident desire allows for the hunters snare to do its work •The birth of sin is not instantaneous it....

Faithful Christian Living

Scripture Passage: James 1:19-27 Recieve The Word •James was writing to Jewish Christians who were facing persecution and hardships to encourage them (v.2) •The “engrafted” or “implanted” Word (Matt 13, Parable of the Sower) •God’s Word the ‘seed’ and the heart the ‘soil’ Practice The Word •Hearing and not doing…cannot be •It seems that for the Christian the doing as an outcome of the hearing indicates the engrafting or the implanting! To look in the mirror and forget is to show a superficial....

A GOSPEL OUTLOOK AT THE 2 T’s: TRIALS AND TEMPTATIONS (PART-1)

Scripture Passage: James 1:1-8,12 (For Week#1's summary please look at the previous weeks blog) A GOSPEL REFINED TONGUE:PURGED FOR PURE SPEECH- WEEK#2 •A call for Godly order •“Speech uttered is Speech Judged” •Our speech betrays us, but that does keep us from searching for God’s purging of our tongue •Let us not pay mere “Lip Service” to God, for words do qualify as deeds and leads to deeds.   DO NOT BE ALARMED BY TRIALS •(Gk) peirasmos: a putting to proof (by experiment (of good), experience....

A GOSPEL REFINED TONGUE: PURGED FOR PURE SPEECH

Scripture Passage: James 3:1-12 A TRUMPET WITH GOSPEL SOUL- WEEK#1 •James contends for Faith that is action oriented •Theology and Praxis are characteristic of Christian Maturity •Both Abraham’s and Rahab’s knowledge of YHWH was visible in their deeds •If the our Christian being is a trumpet (metaphorically) what is blowing into it and what is being heard out of it? AN EXHORTATION TO GODLY ORDER •James is addressing a plausible disorderliness in the assembly of believers •To be a teacher....

A TRUMPET WITH GOSPEL SOUL

James 2:14-25   BY WHOM, TO WHOM & WHY? •James, the half-brother of Jesus •Written in and around 50 AD, died in 62 AD •To the messianic Jews who were dispersed as early persecution broke out against them •The Jews in their heritage were accustomed to the ‘Law’, under the Gospel they needed to see redeemed conduct that was at the heart of the Law which Christ fulfilled A CONTENTION FOR FAITH THAT PRACTICES •Faith without praxis for James puts into question Salvation (Mt 7:21-23) •In citing an....

Gospel Centered Runners Part-2

1 Timothy 6:11-16 A RE-LOOK AT PART-1 •Christ + Nothing= Everything •A believer is freed to respond to God’s love as originally intended…not just informed but transformed/transforming •Justification is an acquitted status on a believer, a result of Gods grace and mercy •Sanctification is an ongoing art of understanding the acquitted status more deeply…yielding to the Spirit of the God(Gk peripatiete) A CHARGE TO TIMOTHY •Paul refers to Timothy with a title used in the OT for the prophets of God....

Gospel-Centered Runners- Part 1

Galatians 5:1-16 WHAT IS CHRISTIAN FREEDOM? •The Galatians were being taught by false teachers of a salvation that disengaged itself from Grace •The slave and the adopted child (Gal 4:1-7) •Works-based righteousness says, “Jesus + something= Salvation”, the true Gospel says, "Jesus + nothing= Salvation” •It is a freedom from a fallen nature that seeks to self-justify THE CHARACTER OF CHRISTIAN FAITH •It understands that technically and objectively one is justified before God the Father •It....

The Gospel Takes Birth: At Bethlehem God Takes Center Stage

Scripture Passage: Galatians 4:1-7 THE GOSPEL TAKES BIRTH- FATHER, SON & HOLY SPIRIT The Triune God is seen in complete control of the events unfolding in Bethlehem •God the Father is the initiator of all the action •It is a fulfilment of promise and prophecy •The miraculous birth and the ‘Born Again’ experience •God is sovereign in his choice •The “Good News” of Jesus’ birth is for all to hear ETERNITY STEPS INTO TIME •Paul speaks of a time that God the Father deemed right for sending his Son....

The Gospel Takes Birth: Everybody Ought to Know Who Jesus Is- Though Born In A Manger

Scripture Passage: Lk 2:8-20 BACKGROUND (Lk 2:1-9) •A Roman census required for Mary and Joseph to take a long and difficult journey •Luke informs Theophilus of Joseph being from the Davidic line (Micah 5:2) •The narrative’s context of time indicates Jesus’ birth happened in a way that would be identical to migrants…a life to be born without a proper settlement THE PARANORMAL PHENOMENON •The Angelic realm plays a significant role in ushering in the birth of Christ •It points to who is the....

The Gospel Takes Birth: A Miraculous Conception

A Prophecy Given- Isaiah 7 (735 BC) Judah is under threat from its own brothers and a foreign King…end of the Davidic line Ahaz has not been walking in the way of YHWH (20/16…2 Kgs 16) He seeks to make an alliance with Assyria to defeat Ephraim and Aram YHWH sends Isaiah with his son A Prophecy Fulfilled- Matthew & Luke (4 BC) God the Father sets it up God chooses the couple God does not violate the rights of Mary or Joseph There is Triune action God makes himself vulnerable to a sinful....

The Gospel Takes Birth: PART OF A PREDICAMENT OR PART OF A PURPOSE

THE PREDICAMENT •Mary is engaged to Joseph and will be in violation of the code of conduct for marriage (Lk 1:27) •She was culpable of adultery, resulting in being stoned to death    (Ex 20:14, Deut 22:22) •She also is concerned about how she will conceive the Son of El Elyon (Lk 1:32, Gen 14:18-20) •She found to be in humble submission despite the risks   WHAT DID MARY KNOW? •Mary is engaged to Joseph and will be in violation of the code of conduct for marriage (Lk 1:27) •She was culpable of....

The gospel echo in the workplace: work that worships

CHURCH: SKIN DEEP WE ARE ALL THE SAME Paul emphasizes the Gospel is available to all and accepting of all (Col 3:11) There is The Father, Christ and the Holy Spirit in whose fellowship every believer is called to respond The higher goal is the pleasure of the Triune God not only in our individual lives or home life but also in our workplace Understanding Role and Responsibility within the ‘Sameness’ Role and responsibility are redefined and reshaped by the Gospel. There is a governing body....

Christ: Prominent? Or Preeminent?

Who is Jesus Christ? Image of the invisible God       First born of Creation Originator of Creation               Agent of Creation Goal of Creation          Antecedent of Creation Sustains Creation        Head of the Church First born from the dead          Preeminent One In him dwells the fullness of God       Reconciler of all things Maker of Peace Christ Exalted Paul’s exaltation of Christ was crucial to the church of Colossae Paul’s identity with those in Colossae arises because of Christ....

Reprogrammed by the Gospel

As we study this book we shall consider: The place we have in Christ The position of Christ The presence of Christ The purpose in Christ The Provision in Christ Historical Background  Colossae was a Roman province, a city, close to Hierapolis, Laodicea and Ephesus. A big earthquake destroyed the city in 60 AD or so and was never rebuilt.  The city was a trade route and was in its religion- pluralistic  Written in about 60AD from Rome, by Paul while in prison Knowing the Apostle-Paul  Paul was....