CHRISTIAN NEWS MAGAZINE FOR KERALA MALAYALEE CHRISTIANS FROM INDIA AROUND THE WORLD
SYNOPSIS

SYNOPSIS FOR SERMONS AND MEDITATIONS
SEASON OF EPIPHANY Z\lImew
By V.Rev.Thomas P.Mundukuzhy Cor Episcopa
(A Renowned Writer And Publisher. Author of many Christian Devotional Books. Sunday School Director of American Diocese, Malankara Orthodox Church.)

CHRISTMAS [THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD]: DECEMBER 25TH

  1. WHAT IS CHRISTMAS? This question was asked to some Christians. The answers are worthwhile to ponder.
    - Santa Clause / St. Nicholas brings fruits and gifts to good children.
    - Red Nosed reindeer
    - Caroling: Spreading the message / talk to others about the birth of Jesus
    - Vacation: Coming and going
    - Christmas Tree: Branches: Light; Ornaments: people; star and light: Jesus Christ
    - Sitting infront of a decorated tree and eating candy taken from the socks.
    - Fireworks: To see His face within that light
    - Parties, gifts and cakes
    - Cards (How many reads the messages in them?)
    - Giving and receiving
    - Decorating and illumining
    - Worshipping and praising
    - Buying and selling: Sale pitch up of the days feels the pulse of the coming: Thrill, frill, and skill
    - Eating, drinking and gift giving
    - Loving and making friends.
    - Light: The dawn visits us. Those in the dark sees the light. God sent a man (John 1:6) with the LIGHT of His love, which we call Jesus Christ. We have to prepare the way within us .... by eradicating ignorance and unrighteousness.

    Christmas is an anniversary of faith and a celebration of spirit. It is the time when people's hearts ring like bells. It is the spirit and philosophy: "It is more blessed to give than to receive." It is the time when people do something mutually for others. It is a time of happiness and joy when we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the manger. Jesus is the reason of the season. We "wake up, look up, and lift up our hearts to receive the LIGHT OF CHRIST into every corner of our lives." A Jewish daughter was chosen to be an angel in a Christmas play in her school. She asked her father whether she could. Understanding her dilema, he said: "Honey, be their angel." That is the spirit of Christmas.

  2. AT CHRISTMAS, we should have Christ's heart, will and way (CHRISTUMANAS). Christmas (Latin) is Christ + Mass: The Eucharist at the birth of Christ. On the nativity night, three masses (Qurbana) were celebrated - Midnight (Birth from the Father Almighty), at Dawn (Birth from virgin Mary), and in the Morning (birth in the heart of the Faithful). Christmas celebration started only in the 4th century - in 376 at Antioch, in 430 at Egypt, and in 549 at Jerusalem. If we don't observe the festivity properly, Christmas may become Christ mess or Christ myth.

    A.

    Like John the Baptist, we have to prepare the way to accept Christ ... no sin, no fear, no despair ... but hope and faith.

    B.

    See Jesus: Though the birth of Jesus was announced, only the shepherds and the wisemen were able to see Jesus, not Herod, the king or Phrisees or sadducees.

    C.

    1. Message to common people: Shepherds
    2. Message in the night: Jesus, the light to eradicate darkness (several things in the night: exodus, David's Psalms, St. Paul's and Silas in the prison and the epistles, and so on).
    3. Wise men through stars, shepherds through the praises of the angels, Herod through wisemen, Jews through Scriptures the BIRTH was known.

    D.

    Glorify God: "Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, and good will toward men" (Luke 2:14). "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows his handiwork" (Psalm 19:1) Follow His commandments and get rewards - receive positive answers. Angels' Announcements: Luke 2:10:
    - Jesus brings good news: no more fear
    - Jesus brings joy: Because it lasts
    Pleasure is temporary; happiness depends on circumstances. But nobody can taken it away (John 16:22). It gives an internal peace (Acts 5:40-41) Jesus' joy is available to all. It is part of the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Angelic hymn is part of our every day vigil for a good morning and most people know it by heart second to Lord's prayer.

    1. Glory to God in the highest: The process of saving the human kind from sin. So the angels praising the Lord. One of the angels informed this to Mary nine months ago. Now they are seeing the miracle. This is like a king condecending to his subjects. Therefore it is to be glorified. After His resurrection, the saints glorified Him (Revelation 5:9-10)

    2. Peace on the Earth: After enmity, reconciliation makes us very happy. Here unity with God. God brings peace down to the earth... between people of all kinds. He is the Lord of peace (Isaiah 9:6-7).

    3. Good will to men: "Light of light, very God of very God" born in the manger. "God is with us" (Immanuel). Fellowship with Him (2 Peter 1:4). The altar is House of Bread (Bethlehem). The fiery angels see Him upon the altar as Bread and Wine. The bread came down from heaven (John 6:56-59). We have life in Him (1 John 5:12). He has to born in us.

    ANGELS PLAY A BIG PART:
    To Mary, Gabriel appeared with the annuciation: Luke 1:28 Angel cleared Joseph's doubts: Matthew 1:20 Appeared to the shephers: Luke 2:8-13 After birth, twice for safety: Matthew 2:19-23 Also later: After temptation: Matthew 4:11 At Gethsamanae: Luke 22:13 Rolled the rock: Matthew 28:2 Ascension: Acts 1:9-11 "After God had Adam made ....Angels wond'ring gazed," ......(Holy Qurbana) (Also see: Daniel 10:1-21; Hebrews 1:14 and chapter 25 of OUR CHURCH)

    E.

    Be Humble: like St. Mary: "Let it be to me according to your mind" (Luke 1:38). She is graceful, highly favored before God, and blessed among men (Luke 1:28).

    F.

    The shining stars:

    1. They made the wise men to look for Him: Matthew 2:1-2. They pointed out that Jesus Christ is God Himself and shall be worshipped by all,
    2. Herod's interest is also upon the stars, but different: Matthew 2:7-8
    3. Stars moved before them (Matthew 2:9). We have also something go before us as a sign (When afflicted we learn His statutes: Psalm 119:71) Faith star in us (Rockfeller had abdomen pain...vision about persecuting slaves, Helped them and got relieved)
    4. Happy of achieving the goal (Matthew 2:10-11). That is Christmas joy.

    G.

    Worship Him like the wisemen and also see Mother Mary with Jesus (Matthew 2:11). He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father (John 5:23).

    H.

    How do we get ready: Shepherds and wisemen hastily went to see with the eagerness to see the Blessed Baby; the attitude of Herod and the Jews were different. Wise emn did know the route and sought help; stars and later revelation guided: we will too.

    I.

    Herod was troubled at the news thinking that there may be a challenge to his position. He had no respect of personality: " The respect of personality is the theme of Christianity."; "Great men exist in order to make great men and greater to greatest." There was no truth in his words and actions; Judah's kiss.

    J.

    Give Him presents (Matthew 2:11). Where our heart is there our treasure is also. Gift shall make happy. Some-thing new that reflects care and concern (Gift exchange for the host family given to a poor in the harlem). Should give with a merry heart. "The gift without the giver is bare." When people celebrate birthdays they expect gifts. "What I want is my two front teeth", said a youth. Wisemen presented gifts to Jesus. Does Jesus expect gifts? Yes, us, our submission and dedication. What does Christmas cost us? For decorations and illuminations; for parties and getogethers; for cards and gifts. For God - His only Begotten Son: Gift of Salvation and Gift of Love - the Gift of the Son of God. No cost Christmas: Mend the differences; visit, call, write, volunteer; show concerns for the last, lost and the least; be loving, caring and living.

    K.

    Three wise men (magi): Matthew 2:11: They came from the East (2:1) and presented gold to infant Jesus in the manger in Bethlehem by Melkiah of Persia, representing the kingship of Jesus; myrrh (perfumed burial spice) by Kasper of India, representing Godhood / prophethood; and frankencense (bark /dried sap of a certain tree) by Belthaz-zar of Arabia, representing Jesus' manhood (death) / priesthood. Some claim that these wise men were descendants of Shem, Ham and Japheth, sons of Noah. According to a Russian Orthodox tradition, there was a fourth one, Arthaban or Koredan who brought three pieces of gold to present to baby Jesus, but could not arrive on time. The relics of these wise men were brought from Constantinople in the 5th century to Milan in Italy, and later in 1162 to Colone Cathedral in Germany; they are commemorated on the 23rd of July as the patron saints of travellers.

    L.

    Should not return to Herod: They departed another way as divinely warned; we also get some warnings. King is asking to go his way, Almighty God is telling to go another way; they followed God's.

    M.

    Stars brought them to Jesus; To return only a message: they know the way.

    N.

    Joseph's journey to Bethlehem (80 miles from Bethlehem), Mary's tiresome trip, shepherd's enlightening experiences, wisemen's search for the truth, Herod's excitement, martyrdom of children, baby's birth in the manger with the swaddling clothes - all have excruciating, far reaching results on the Christmas day. Bethlehem is house of bread. Jesus (bread of life) was born there. Wise men saw the star of the king of Israel, born as a king of the Jews is over there. Jehoah is the only king for the Jews (Isaiah 33:22). Herod, after checking the Scriptures, realized this fact. He said he will also worship Him, but did not, got a chance to do so. Jesus shall be found only among the poor and the persecuted, not at high places. We shall see Jesus with our own eyes amongst us. Those who were near did not recognize His birth, only those who were far away did. It was good news for the poor and the sick, but terrifying to the ruler.

  3. Acknowledge and accept the Son of God: A child was born in an obscure village. Millions of babies are born every year. But the "Babe of Bethlehem" is different. He is the "Alpha and Omega" - the First and the Last - that which was, that which is, that which is to come (Revelation 1:8) Jesus is the only person ever born with God's genes (John 1:14). Named Him Jesus, means Savior (not Stone, Banks, Peach, Harper, Bill, Wise, Guy, West, North, Sword, Black, White, Hand, Sick. Wall, Wood, Price, Head, Fox, Bird, etc). He was born with TLC: Tender Loving Care; not with Toys, Lossanges, Candy/Computer

  4. GOOD NEWS: "For there is born to you this day in the city of David, a savior who is Christ the Lord" (Matthew 2:11). We hear good news and bad news every day:

    - Hijacking and kidnapping
    - Plane accidents, earthquakes, voilcanoes, cyclones, hurricanes
    - Famines and pestilences -
    - Racial tensions in Middle East, Ireland, India
    - Recession, inflation, pollution, family breakdown
    - Crime, violence, fire, theft, sickness.

    But "grace and truth came through Jesus Christ" (John 1:17) Moses: He will be a prophet mighty in word and deed: Deuteronomy 18:18 Jeremiah: He will execute justice and righteousness in the Land: Jeremiah 23:5 Isaiah: "For unto us a child is born; unto us a child is given; His name shall be called wonderful, counselor, mighty God, Everlasting, Father, Prince of peace .... Immanuel which interpreted is God with us": 9:6. He would be a "suffering Savior" as well as a "reigning king." He is "Immanuel." i.e., God with us (Isaiah 7:14) Samaritan woman: "I know Messiah is coming. When He arrives, He will teach us all things" (John 4:25) He was born in a manger. He grew up in another village--Bethlehem, Nazareth, Egypt. Learned carpentry (like paul, tent-making). He had no money for offerings ---turtle doves or pigeons instead of a lamb (Luke 2:24 cf. Leveticus 12:8). Had to ask Peter to catch a fish and get the money from its mouth to pay tax. Never wrote a book -- wrote nothing, except with fingers in the dust (John 8:6-7), but most books are written about Jesus (About Shakespeare - 5200 books; Napoleon - 2825; Gandhi - 500; John Kennedy - 400; Robert Kennedy - 50; Jesus Christ - 9375 books and many more all over the world (Library of Congress has 1,20000 books, poems, other documents in stock about Jesus and 1000 publications on Mahatma Gandhi. Jesus never owned a house or driven a car, sinners and publicans were his friends (Matthew 12:9); never visited a city, nor travelled more than 200 miles; Preached against unrighteousness (Matthew 5:20; 16:6, 11-12); proclaimed liberty to the captives, blind, and oppressed (Luke 4:1819); preached the kingdom of God (Matthew 4:23; 9:37); friends betrayed, denied and ran away during crisis; birth in the manger and death on the cross; funeral in a borrowed sepelcher; and rejected by His own people (Jews). How about we? Do we recognize Him and give due place in our hearts, when we celebrate His birthday?

  5. The Message of Christmas:

    A.

    It is the first festival in the Christian calendar. Prophets and messangers communicated before; now God Himself comes around to be with us and to communicate. Lighting the fire during the procession service reminds us of that great happy occasion 2000 years ago and also of the light the shepherds saw at the birth. Fire is for purification. Jesus was born to eradicate the sin thereby to sanctify the world. The fire light reminds us of Jesus: "I am the light of the world." We have to reflect upon the stars, the wisemen, the angels, the shepherds, the presents, and so on to enjoy the indepth beauty of Christmas.

    B.

    Peace on earth: Not piece or peas. Angels proclaimed peace. In the Holy Qurbana, peace is proclaimed several times. We have to glorify God and please Him to have PEACE.

    C.

    Fear not, don't be afraid: To Zachariah: Luke 1:13 ) Have To Joseph: Matthew 1:20 ) No To St. Mary: Luke 1:29 ) Fear To the Shepherds: Luke 2:10)

    D.

    Mary, the Mother, said of Incarnation: To exalt the lowly (Luke 1;51-53 cf. Psalms 68:6) to feed the hungry, and to attack the devil.. To scatter the enemy: Luke 1:51 cf. Psalm 68:1 (Herod, Pharisees, Saducees, temple leaders, etc,)

    E.

    Be merry and happy: The proclamation to the shepherds: Luke 2:10-11. Festivals, celebrations, good wishes, cards, gifts, etc. The current time without peace, happiness and joy. Keep away from sins and darkness and embrace the divine, heavenly light of Christ (Matthew 1:21) who saves the world from sin.

    F.

    Jesus came to show us the way to God, to set before us an example to follow, and to procure for us the forgiveness of sin as our Savior. "Those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing" (Psalm 34:10).

    G.

    Give: God so loved the world that He GAVE .... (John 3:16). God gave His only son with love. If we love, we give. Extend our helping hand to the needy. Four kinds of giving: (1) For pity (2) For salvation (3) For name and fame (rich people) (4) Gods' love: Real Christians. Jesus gave with compassion (Matthew 9:35-36). Jesus' strength overflowed when the woman touched His garment. Give love, joy, peace, kindness, etc. (Galatians 5:22)

    H.

    God forgives our sins. Jesus forgave even on the cross. We too forgive, especially during this time of the year. 7 or 70 times.

    I.

    Love: God is love. Meditate on the Love chapter (1 Corinthians 13). The world is thirsting for love. The story of the two brothers: one married and the other single. Sleepless nights for both thinking about each other. Took grains and stored in the other's storage each night to help. One night both met in the thick of the night and learned what they had been doing. News spread. A church was built at that spot.

    1. Share and care: Concern for the last, for the lost and the least. People with well furnished suits and decorated apartments sleep on the floor for not daunting their possessions. Poor man requested his rich man neighbor for help but he got mad, Couldn't sleep for both that night. Wife persuaded the rich man to help and did. Both wept at the church out of happiness. "Send portions to those whom nothing is prepared" (Nehemiah 8:10).

    2. Sacrifice: Jesus forfeited His divine position and came down on the earth and sacrificed Himself for the whole world. That is Christmas.

    L.

    Believe that Jesus Christ is the solution for all human problems. Trust Him and have faith in Him. "People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered: Love them anyway! If you do good, people will accuse of selfish interior motives: Do good anyway! If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies: Succeed anyway! The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow: Do good anyway! Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable: Be honest and frank anyway! The biggest people with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest people with the smallest minds: Think big anyway! People favor underdogs but follow only top dogs: Fight for some underdogs anyway! What you spend building may be destroyed overnight: Build anyway! People really need help but may attack you if you help them: Help people anyway! Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth: Give the world the best you've got anyway!"

    M.

    Make peace: Peace on earth at His birth. Blessed are those who make peace.

    N.

    Obedience: Obeyed parents. At Gethsamanae, "Not my desire, but yours." Obedient till His death on the cross.

    O.

    God is with us: Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14). God could have done this saving of humanity in another way, but wanted to do this by being among us and by like us. Akbar, India's emperor, once asked his shrewd and smart prime minister and chief counsel Birbal, why God sent His own son to be crucified in saving the humanity and gave him two days for an appropriate answer. The next day while they were sailing in a boat, Birbal threw Akbar's son into the water. Without waiting, in a haste, Akbar jumped into the water and saved his own son from drowning. Birbal explained then this is why God sent His own son to save the world ... God loves us that much.

    [NOTE: Afro-Americans share a feeling of togetherness with seven principles during their favorite holiday, KWANZA: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity and faith].

  6. A new heaven and a new earth (Revelations 21:1; Isaiah 66:22): "Day spring from on high has visited us": Luke 1:78 Stars in the heavens a sign God in swadling clothes on the earth in the manger is a wonder Melodious heavenly music in the sky God with the human beings on the earth A complete change to the whole universe The immortal God lives in the Church Joseph with his righteousness, Mary out of her humility, wisemen with gifts, shepherds with their sincerity, and angels with melodious praises made the manger and the situation immemorable. God's life flows through the sacraments in the Church Dry bones getting alive: Ezekiel 37 The leaves of the trees will not wither and their fruit will not fail: Ezekiel 47:12 Abundant life: John 10:10 Walking with newness of life: Romans 6:4 Service in the newness of spirit: Romans 7:6 Inward man is renewed: 2 Corinthians 4:16 Put on the new man: Colossians 3:10 Rod from the stem of Jesse: 1 Samuel 11:1-9 Glory of the Lord in the reformed world: Isaiah 60:1-22; Revelation 21:1-8

  7. Christ to born in us: No room in the inn; the Savior doesn't want to be born in the palace, born in the manger. Simplicity and humility; could He born in our hearts and minds? Good will when the love of God poured in our hearts: Romans 5:5 Live for God: Romans 14:8 Christ to form in us: Galatians 4:19 He gave peace and good will to the poor: 2 Corinthians 8:9 Jesus became poor for us to become rich. Look at Him to be radiant (Psalms 34:5); when we look through the mirror of God's word, we transform more and more fully into His image through the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 3:18; John 16:12-15). Alexander Pope: Even if the infant Jesus is born in Bethlehem thousand and thousand times, if He does not born in my heart, what is the use? Napoleon felt the most happiest and peaceful time in his life when he received the holy communion at the first time.

  8. Born in Bethlehem: Micah 5:2 cf. Luke 2:4: House of bread. cf. "I am the bread of life"

  9. IMMANUEL: MATTHEW 1:23:
    1. Names have special meanings: Elijah: Jehoah is my God; Immanuel: God is with us.
    2. God is with us all the time
    3. A power behind us: Love of God: "Our Father"
    4. The mystery of relationship with God: God is holy. We are sinners. God hates sin, but loves sinners. That is why He sent His only begotten son to save us.
    5. God revealed by Himself: We have to reveal this to the Gentiles. At His second coming, the completion. A monk and his disciple went out, travelled all day long and returned in the evening. "We didn't preach," the disciple lamented. "Our travel among the people itself is revealing of our Lord," replied the monk. If we live a good life, that is the real ministry.

  10. Jesus, King of the Jews (Matthew 2:2): Jews expected the coming of the Messiah, but did not recognize Him because of their selfishness and pride. The illiterate shepherds watched His birth and praised the Mother and Child wrapped in swaddling cloth...common people. Pure in heart see God (Matthew 5:8). Those in holiness only see God (Hebrews 12:14). - Presented to Him gifts of gold, myrh, and frankincense (royal) - Before Pilate: Mark 15:2; Luke 23:2; John 19:20 - Thief: Luke 23:42

  11. Star guided the wise men. Who is our guide? Scriptures, friends, Church, God, or someone/something else?

  12. The one born this day in Bethlehem is a replica of prophet Joshua (entered into caanan) and priest Joshua (reorganised the order of service along with Zerubabel after the rebuilding of the Jerusalem temple).

  13. The spirit of christmas is music: Carolling.

  14. The serenity of Christmas is the presence of the Holy Child with the Mother.

  15. The power of Christmas is the blessing of "Jesus" (Matthew 1:21) who is "Immanuel" (1:23), "King" (2:2); and "Christ." (2:4).

  16. Christmas is an assembly of multitudes: the Infant Child, the youthful Mary and certain shepherds, and the aged and matured Joseph and some of the shepherds and wise men. Let us have concern for each of these categories on this wonderful day: young, adults and the old.

Therefore REJOICE today for the:

  1. Unchanging characteristics of the Almighty God;

  2. The glorious works of Jesus Christ;

  3. The sanctifying activities of the Holy Spirit; and

  4. The endless blessings of the Almighty God.

May we have the Spirit of Christmas which is PEACE The Gladness of Christmas which is HOPE The Heart of Christmas which is LOVE, and The Gift of Christmas which is Christ.

LUKE 2:1-14; MATTHEW 2:1-12

  1. The decree of Roman emperor Caesar Augustus brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem where Jesus was born as the prophet foretold (Micah 5:2)

  2. Jesus was born in a manger - born in humble circumstances - came to meet the need of the least important people.

  3. Not admitted in the hospital ... journey on the donkey ... concern for the deprived.

  4. The birth of the lamb that bears the sins of the race was first witnessed by the shepherds. Was a prophet like Moses (Deuteronomy 18:15). God became man to make man God.

  5. The angels announced the birth to the shepherds and praised God. We can see divinity in each and every job. Shepherds received the message.

  6. Kings were terrorised, the deprived were cheered, shepherds ran around, wise men arrived: change to all of them.

  7. The shepherds went with haste and found the Baby.

  8. Those who heard the news marvelled, Mary pondered, and the shepherds glorified and praised the God. We shall share the joy of Christmas to others. The carolings and greetings of the season should not leave us.

  9. Like the wise men, knowledge and intellect all shall lead to God.

  10. Is God with us? Those who are pure in heart see God. God should be with us and with our friends (Matthew 25:40). God made man and he sinned.

  11. They recognized the birth of Jesus as they are: Wisemen through the stars, shepherds through the praises of the angels, Herod through wisemen, Jews by scriptures. How about us? How do we spread the news?

  12. When the shepherds and the wisemen came with haste to see, Herod and the Jews became enemies. When gentile wisemen accepted Jesus as the king of Jews, Herod and the Jewish leaders rejected Him. Herod was troubled fearing that the new king would replace him. So he tried to destroy Him.

  13. Jesus was born in Bethlehem (house of bread), five miles south of Jerusalem, the home town of David, Israel's greatest king (1 Samuel 16, 1, 19).

  14. The wisemen found the Baby with the mother and worshipped Him with gifts.

  15. The wisemen departed another way as warned in a dream (Matthew 2:12). To come, they had stars to guide; to return, just a message now they know the way: "I am the way ... ".

    - God gives direction how to proceed.
    - Follow God's direction; not the worldly instruc-tions.
    - Wickedness doesn't work; wisemen went another way.
    - Sinners go back as saints; bruised ones return with
    relief, mourners return in happiness.

  16. The wise men bowed down and gave the gifts. We too should bow down.

  17. Parents - Joseph and Mary - had no rest: Went to Egypt.

  18. He who came to preach the Gospel to the poor Himself became poor.

  19. Parental love: Mary and Joseph travelled 500 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem to Egypt and return; took on the 8th day for circumcision; 12th year to the temple. Mother went all the way to the cross and also at ascension. Contribute love and continue to live.

  20. Responsible children: Train their hearts. Jesus went with His parents to Nazareth and was subject to them (Luke 2:51). Learned everything by the age of 12. Acted responsibly. Helped the needy and the sick.

MATHEW 11:25-30: CHRIST INVITES ALL TO COME

  1. God does not reveal the truth about salvation to the worldly wise

  2. God reveals Himself to us only through the Son

  3. Jesus offers this knowledge of God to all who will believe

  4. Jesus gives rest to those who are heavy laden (John 6:35-37)

  5. God's plan to help us cope with life. His yoke is light (1 John 5:3)

1 JOHN 1:1-10

  1. God revealed Himself through Jesus Christ and established fellowship with us: His disciples heard, saw and touched Him.

  2. God is light: John 3:19-20

  3. We should lead a holy life to have fellowship with God.

  4. Our relationship with others shall reflect our experience with God.

  5. We have to confess our sins to have fellowship with God

  6. If one claims that he is not a sinner, that person refuses to accept Christ.

GALATIANS 3:23-4:7

  1. The Law locked up the sinners until Christ came

  2. When one believes in Jesus Christ, his relationship with God and with others change

  3. In Christ, there is no distinction of race, color, or sex

  4. Like a child who is under the relationship of others, every one was under bondage until Christ came

  5. Christ came to redeem us from sin

  6. We are all children of God - His sons and daughters (through Jesus Christ)

HEBREWS 1:1-12 THE SON IS GOD'S SUPREME REVELATION

  1. God spoke at various times and in so many ways

  2. In time of fulfilment, God spoke through one person, Jesus Christ, His own Son.

  3. We are all His spiritual heirs

  4. Angels are ministering spirits, but Jesus is the eternal Son, our perfect Savior

  5. We have to submit ourselves to Christ's righteous rule by obedience

  6. Jesus is Lord, the eternal unchanging Creator.

GENESIS 21:1-8 GOD KEEPS HIS PROMISE TO SARAH

  1. Isaac was born to sarah in Abraham's old age - 100

  2. Abraham made a great feast on the day when Isaac was weaned.

MICAH 5:1-4 MESSIANIC PROPHECY

  1. The ideal king: Judah's hope for the future - would originate from Bethlehem.

  2. Hezekiah, the king in Jerusalem, was helpless under the invasion of the Assyrian king Sennacherib

  3. Israel will be delivered from her enemies.

ISAIAH 9:1-7

  1. God will send the Messiah, even though there was lack of trust among the people

  2. God's anointed king shall light the benightened nation

  3. He will bring lasting peace: wonderful, counselor and Mighty God.

  4. Jesus' birth was wonderful: Micha prophesied He will be born in Bethlehem. Born of virgin, star at birth, affected three worlds: Heaven (angels); Earth (shepherds and wisemen - the highest and the lowest); Hell: The devil was agitated and persuaded to the king to kill.

  5. Jesus' life was wonderful: No fault in Him (Pilate). No sin. Never said or did or thought anything evil

  6. Jesus' message was wonderful: The sermon on the mount' message of hope for all eternity. Comfort in Him (Matthew 11:28); All have sinned (Romans 3:23); Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Nobody never spoke like Jesus.

  7. Jesus' love is wonderul: John 3:16. His love extends from eternity to eternity. It includes all races, tongues, and peoples in the world. It reaches down to the deepest sinners and lifts him up toward heaven.

  8. His death was wonderful: he died for us

  9. His resurrection was wonderful

  10. His ministry was wonderful

  11. He prepares a wonderful home for us.

MASSACRE OF CHILDREN
MATTHEW 2:15-17

  1. Children were the first martyrs.

  2. God preserved Jesus from destruction as Moses was saved.

  3. God also saved the Israelites by bringing them out of Egypt.

  4. Many were slaughtered during the Babylonian invasion, but God saved them.

MARK 6:1-6

  1. First the leaders rejected Jesus (3:1-6)

  2. Now His own people rejected Jesus - foreshadow of the cross

  3. No honor in one's own place or among own people.

ACTS 7:11-29

  1. Stephen defends by citing Israel's history

  2. God exalted Joseph and he became a Savior - a possible parallel to Jesus

  3. God is in control all the time - then and now

  4. Moses was saved and became another Savior. He forsook luxury and privilege and identified himself with the oppressed (Hebrews 11:24-26; Philippians 2:5-7)

  5. Moses' authority was challenged; Jesus was also rejected.

  6. Moses was in isolation for 40 years before his public ministry; Jesus was fasting for 40 days before His.

EXODUS 1:1-22

  1. Jacob and his descendants died, but their increased abundantly and multiplied and grew exceedingly.

  2. Pharaoh enslaved the Israelites to reduce their threats.

  3. Pharaoh also made arrangements to kill the males at birth or to cast into the river.

JETREMIAH 31:15-20

  1. Rachel wept from her grave (Genesis 35:16-20) for her sons Joseph and Benjamin in exile. cf. Herod slaughtered the innocent children at Bethlehem (Matthew 2:16-18)

  2. Tears will change to joy

  3. Israel repented

  4. The Lord has everlasting love and mercy for His people.

ISAIAH 60:8-14

  1. The disposed shall return

  2. The oppressors and suppressors shall turn around

  3. God's wrath is temporary, but His favor is eternal.

PRAISES OF ST. MARY
LUKE 11:15-20

  1. Choose wisely: We have to choose whether we are with Him or against Him

  2. Prepare thoroughly: Once we are delivered by Jesus, we must be filled with His Holy Spirit and busy with His work. Otherwise we will end up worse off than before

  3. Recognize: A woman recognized and complimented Jesu and His mother

  4. Do His will: We have to do the work of God than only to feel good and talk about it (Matthew 7:21)

  5. Jesus' death and resurrection would be their only sign to believe in Him - As Jonah was delivered from the belly of the fish, Jesus would be raised from the death (Matthew 12:39-40)

  6. Thrill seekers go after wisdom: Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10:1-10; Matthew 12:41-42) came to hear the wisdom of Solomon

  7. Jesus is greater than Solomon and Jonah.

LUKE 8:16-21

  1. Spread the word: The Gospel is compared to light and it is our responsibility to let it be seen.

  2. Reveal the truth: Though during Jesus' time the Gospel was misunderstood, after His resurrection, its meaning would be revealed through His disciples.

  3. Follow thoroughly: Those who truly obey will receive greater spiritual undertanding and grow in spiritual lives. Those who refuse the Gospel will lose even whatever they have.

  4. Do His will: When we hear and do the will of God (obey) we become members of God's family.

  5. Do not rush: Jesus' parents waited outside patiently

  6. Jesus showed Mother Mary to the crowd

  7. Jesus taught and preached to the big crowd.

(NOTE: Sunday morning prayer (Sleeba) starts with remembering the fasting and meditation of St. Mary; Public Celebration (Holy Qurbana) begins with remembering St. Mary; and the Intercessory Hymns begin with praising St. mary (See the royal daughter stand....)

ACTS 7:30-43: STEPHEN'S DEFENSE

  1. Prepare and be ready: Jesus was in isolation for 40 days before His Public Ministry. Moses was in isolation for 40 years before His public activities.

  2. God calls us to be His agents of deliverence.

  3. Rejection before acceptance: Like Jesus, Moses was rejected first but became the deliverer.

  4. Accept the consequence: God will abandon us if the light of the Gospel is rejected.

ROMANS 1:1-10: ST. PAUL'S MINISTRY OF THE GOSPEL

  1. The basis of Paul's apostleship and mission is Jesus Christ.

  2. After the resurrection, Jesus' power was made known trhough the coming and ministry of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:36).

  3. Because God is holy, His people must be morally holy (1 Peter 1:15-16)

  4. We have to experience God's grace to have His peace with us.

  5. Paul was very eager to visit the Romans for mutual Christian encouragement.

  6. Paul prayed for them continually.

EXODUS 3:1-10

  1. Moses was a responsible son-in-law to Jethro

  2. Moses was called in a vision.

  3. The bush was burned, but not consumed; like St. Mary's pregnancy of Jesus.

  4. God called Moses in repetition for special attention (V.4) like Abraham (Genesis 23:11), Samuel (1 samuel 3:10), and Saul (Acts 9:4).

  5. God's presence makes place sacred; dirty sandals profane the holy ground.

  6. God sees, hears, and knows the sorrows of His people.

  7. God's mission is reaching people through people.

EZEKIEL 44:1-12

  1. We have to preserve the sanctity of the temple

  2. That which has been used by God is no longer ordinary.

  3. Like Ezekiel, we have to fall on our face before Almighty God.

  4. The rebellious and the unworthy have no place in God's sanctuary.

  5. Those who lead to idolatory and unfaithfulness should have only other works of the temple, not to lead the worship.

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS
MATTHEW 2:9-15; 19-23

  1. Wise men - religious and spiritually enlightened - from the East came to see and worship the infant Baby...their desire and excitement to meet Jesus. We should have also the same.

  2. God through the star guided them to come and go.

  3. Only in St. Mathew: Star from Jacob: Numbers 24:17; Baby born in Bethlehem was king (Micah 5:1-3).

  4. Wise men looking for Jesus ended at the palace ending their effort fruitless...arrived at the wrong place. Do not look for higher places to see Jesus.
  5. Forgot the king and went after Jesus again. Look up and start the search when we loose Him.
  6. When they found Jesus, rejoiced with exceed-ingly great joy in attaining the goal. When we meet Jesus, forget all troubles and hardships.

  7. They fell down, worshipped, and presented gifts. Gifts to Jesus was fulfillment of prophecy (Psalms 72:10; Isaiah 60:6). Gold represents kingship; Myrrh, prophethood; incense, priesthood. Jesus was king, prophet, and priest - three in one. We are also through baptism (1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 20:6).
    King: Provider and keeper
    Prophet: Teacher and preacher
    Priest: Mediator

  8. Herod wanted to destroy the child: 2:16-18. Do we have that revengeful attitude?

  9. Herod's power did not subdue Jesus. God's power is great (2 Kings 6:16). God preserved Jesus from destruction as Moses.

  10. Joseph and Mary (parents) provided security to infant Jesus. Prince to prevail peace and righteousness (Isaiah 9:67). We also have obligation to keep and maintain peace, order, and justice. God's children are peacemakers (Matthew 5:9).

  11. They were warned and returned another way. (Three revelations: one to wise men and three to Joseph). Do not go back to the old ways of life after we meet Him. Iscariot did, Saul did not and became Paul and travelled in a different way.

  12. Joseph was warned in a dream to escape to Egypt. Pay heed to such warnings.

  13. Avoid enmity, hate, and confrontation. They went to Egypt.

  14. Had to go to the "slave country" ... born in the manger, and childhood in exile. We have to suffer to be rewarded in the kingdom (Matthew 5:10-12).

  15. Be courageous. Mary's and Joseph's responses ... their courage and mutual dependency.

  16. Joseph brought back Jesus and Mother to Israel and settled in Nazareth.

MATTHEW 10:16-23

  1. We should be wise, but should not be self-seeking, and should be innocent of evil actions.

  2. Persecution could come from any direction - from political rulers or from unbelieving family members.

  3. Persecution is an opportunity to witness Christ.

  4. God's spirit helps us in times of crisis.

  5. We have to hold fast to faith till the end.

  6. Persecution only helps to spread the Gospel rapidly.

JOHN 15:18-21

  1. Expect persecution: Those who hate and reject Jesus, reject us also.

  2. Rejoice in following Jesus

  3. Love of world doesn't last

  4. Know God and Jesus for lasting results.

ACTS 16:6-10: THE MACEDONIAN CALL

  1. Holy Spirit forbids

  2. The Vision to come over and help

1 CORINTHIANS 10:1-13 : DO NOT YIELD TO TEMPTATION

  1. Do not reject the blessings of God for the delights of sins

  2. The events of the cloud (Numbers 9:15-23; Exodus 14:19-24) and the sea marked a turning point for the Israelitess.

  3. The Israelites were baptized into Moses committed to his authority and leadership; Christian baptism marks a break with the former life of sin to begin a new life of holiness under the leadership of Jesus.

  4. The manna and the water given to the Israelites were the foreshadows of the Lord's supper.

  5. God is the spiritual rock (Deuteronomy 32:3-4)

  6. They were scattered because of disobedience and punishment

  7. Idolatory and immorality (Numbers 25:1) were their sins

  8. We should not tempt Jesus

  9. God is faithful during our temptations.

GENESIS 37:13-28

  1. Jacob (Israel) sent his son Joseph to his brothers feeding the flock

  2. The bothers conspired against Joseph

  3. They cast him into a pit

  4. They sold him and was taken to Egypt.

ZECHARIAH 8:3-8

  1. The restoration of Jerusalem... Jerusalem would again be safe for the very old and the very young.

  2. God would restore Jerusalem by bringing back His people.

NEW YEAR, CIRCUMCISION; ST. BASIL, ST. GREGORIOS

  1. Calendar year, Financial year, Business Year, Academic Year, Church Year, etc.

  2. January from Januarius: Two faced...one frontward and one backward with eyes. We have to look both ways at the beginning of the year for reflections and decision makings.. look back on the accomplishments of the past and set goals for the future ... self-fulfilment, self-realization, self-satisfaction, self-actualization, self-sacrifice, self-discipline, for giving, caring and compassion.

  3. Will New Year be happier, healthier, safer, better, peaceful, productive than the previous year? Need to change own personal life style? Need commitments? Need to follow God's way in a better way? All the rules and regulations are in the Holy Bible and Church Teachings. New Year for new hope, new courage, new purpose, new life with allegiance, direction, commitment and sacrifice.

  4. "There is no God" (Psalms 14:1) for the fools. "Taste and see that God is good" (Psalms 34:8). Jesus is the leader of our faith and fulfiller (Hebrews 12:1). We have to commit us before Him. He opened a door before us (Revelations 3:8) . .. Is this door to darkness or light ... to garden or open street? We have to open with faith, love and hope. A child in its mother's hands or bosom doesn't feel the jerkings or joltings of the jeep ride on an uneven and rough road as those under His mighty and everlasting hands.

  5. Go forward (Exodus 14:5) ... Moses told and they did. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (Philippians 4:13). Be of one mind (1 Peter 3:8).

  6. Press toward the goal (Philippians 3:14). See the new light in the New year. Jesus Christ is the light: "I am the light of the world." Be a new creration in Him Love like Jesus (John 13:34-35).

  7. Praise Him and thank Him Psalms 103:1-2. Put new wine into new wineskins: Matthew 9:17 Purge out the old leaven to be a new lump: 1 Cor. 5:7-8 All things to become new as a new creation: 2 Cori.5:17 Walk in the spirit: Galatians 5:16 Run forward: Philippians 3:14

New year Resolutions: Examine the past and plan the future. Breaking the resolutions is easier than making them. God's ways and thoughts are higher than ours (Isa. 55:8-9)

  1. Maintain a reasonable sense of values: love, kindness, compassion, etc.

  2. Maintain good health: No junk food, drugs, immoral life

  3. Will be cheerful and helpful

  4. Will listen more and talk less (Action than words)

  5. Be careful in giving advice: Wise don't need it and fools won't heed it.

  6. Be tender with the young, compassionate with the ages, sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant of the weak and wrong.

  7. Try for good achievements, not to earn too much money as money doesn't equate with success. Energy and talents to be used for accomplishments.

  8. Read Holy Bible every day

  9. Pray every day

  10. Think whether living in sin.

GENESIS 12:1-9: ABRAM'S OBEDIENCE

  1. Abram was asked to get out of UR renouncing his country, family, and his father's house: a test of his faith.

  2. Abram was promised that he will become a great nation.

  3. Abram built an altar to the Lord .. his first deed in Bethel.

DEUTERONOMY 10:12-11:1

  1. Obedience, an expression of grateful love

  2. God, Lord of Lords, shows no partiality ... administers justice for the fatherless and the widow and loves the stranger.

  3. Fear the Lord and serve Him by keeping His commandments. "Therefore" repeated five times to stress the idea.

EZEKIEL 18:21-24

  1. If a wicked person repents, God forgives him

  2. If a righteous man turns away and commits sins, he will be punished.

1 JOHN 9:4-7

  1. The world may hate us, but do not worry (John 15:18; 17:14)

  2. We have to love others

  3. Hatred is closely connected to murder: Matthew 5:21-22

  4. We must show our love in practical ways; as Jesus did, in deed and in truth.

ROMANS 2:28-3:8

  1. Circumcision of the heart cleansed from sin by the spirit of God is important.

  2. Even if we are unfaithful, God is always faithful.

LUKE 13:6-9: PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE

  1. Repentance is necessary

  2. There is a limit to God's patience towards those who do not repent.

JOHN 9:4-7

  1. Christ did His work; we have to do our work while we have the opportunity

  2. Christ is the light of the world: John 1:5, 9; 3:19; 8:12; 12:35, 46

  3. The blind man received his sight from Jesus, the One sent by God

  4. He believed, obeyed, and was blessed: Nehemiah 3:15; Isaiah 8:6; Luke 13:4; John 9:11; 2 Kings 5:14

JOHN 15:5-19; LUKE 2:21

  1. Failure to depend on Christ brings loss of spiritual life

  2. We should not ask outside the will of God to abide in Him.

  3. We have to bear spiritual fruits

  4. We have to keep His commandments to abide in His love ...for our joy may be full (15:11); love one another (1 John 3:27; 4:7); love in deed and truth (1 John 3:18). Then will be loved (John 14:23).

  5. If we obey Christ's words, we receive His joy.

  6. Christ showed His love toward us by laying down His life for us. We have to follow His footsteps in this regard.

  7. Christ chose us by dying for our salvation. We have to choose Him by obedience.

  8. We have only to rejoice if evil people reject us because of our love to Christ.

  9. Jesus was presented to the Lord for a life of service (Luke 2:21).

SECOND SUNDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS LUKE 2:40-52

  1. Jesus, like John (1:80), grew up in full stature: in spirit, wisdom and grace (In many physical growth, not spiritual or intellectual).

  2. Worshipping Family: Jesus' parents, Joseph and Mary, as usual, went with Jesus for the Passover, one of the three festivals (Passover, Pentecost, Tabernacle: Exodus 23:14-17; Leveticus 23:4ff; Deuteronomy 16:16) required to be attended. Parents' responsibility for the proper growth and development of the children -- spiritual and physical.

  3. This is the only reference to an occurence in Jesus' late childhood.

  4. Mother also went. Those days, not compulsory for women, but Mary went. Cf. Elkana's wife Hanna (1 Samuel 1:7; 2:19).

  5. Teach our children: By 12 th year, Jesus learned the laws and teachings of the religion. Importance of early childhood training and education, especially Sunday School (12 the year is very important for dedication in the church and to parents).

  6. Parents returned without Jesus. Jesus lingured behind, but His parents didn't know. How about we and our children?

  7. Should not loose Jesus in the festivities. Jesus was lost in the crowd. When too busy, that happens to us also...in talks, walks, dealings, etc.

  8. If Jesus is not with us, not with other relatives or friends, They thought Jesus was in the crowd, friends and relatives. Make sure to be with us, not with somebody else. If an Achen or Thirumeny in the family doesn't mean that every one else in the family is religious.

  9. Had to spend three days to find Jesus. Search if we loose Him until find.

  10. Parents realized the folly. Go back to the same Church. Repentance needed.

  11. All who heard Him were astonished at His knowledge and understanding. Good model. cf. Luke 18-19; Isaiah 49:8; 61:1-2; Matthew 11:15; 12:18; John 3:34.

    a. Preach to the poor: God has to work through us. Holy Spirit to work within us like at Jerusalem Synod (Acts 15:28). Peter was asked whether he loves more and authorized to tend the sheep (John 21:15) ... should have concern for the last, lost and least. That is one of the responsibilities of a congregation.

    b. Freedom to the captives: Sin makes a person captive. We have to work free people from sin, for repentance and conversion. "Man's iniquity to man makes countless thousands to mourn." Search for the house of God (Matthew 6:33). Also prison ministry.

    c. Sight to the blind: Not only external, but internal eyes Jesus lightens.

    d. Comfort to the persecuted: So many burdens. Jesus solve problems. Fish in the deep (Luke 5:4).

  12. Jesus was in the house of His Father and in His business

  13. Jesus lived subjected to His parents - totally obedient and respectful.

  14. Mother kept everything in her heart.

  15. Jesus increased in wisdom and stature: Isaiah 11:2-3; Colossians 2:2-3; 1 Samuel 2:26; Proverbs 3:1-4

  16. Many ascended from time into eternity and Jesus descended from the eternal into time through His love for mankind.

GENESIS 37:1-11

  1. Jacob lived in the strange land of Canaan

  2. Joseph's brothers hated him because their father loved him more than all of them.

  3. They hated him even more when he interpreted his dream, having dominion over them.

  4. His father kept the matter in mind: wondered about the significance of the dream.

1 SAMUEL 2:18-21

  1. Young Samuel ministered before the Lord.

  2. His parents offered yearly sacrifice and gave him a little robe each time.

  3. Eli the priest blessed them.

  4. God blessed Hannah with five more children.

  5. Samuel grew before the Lord.

ISAIAH 26:1-12

  1. Trust in God and peace and joy will come from Him if we depend upon Him.

  2. People repent only when they experience God's judgments ... the nations turn to God when He punishes the oppressors and brings deliverence.

  3. God's grace doesn't always bring the wicked to repentance.

1 JOHN 3:21-24

  1. Our hearts shall be pure

  2. Keep His commandments and be blessed.

  3. We must believe in Jesus Christ

  4. We must love each other

  5. Holy Spirit shall abide in us for true spirituality.

HEBREWS 11:23-31

  1. Faith overcomes fear. God gives strength to face the suffering caused by faith. Moses' story.

  2. Parents' affection to their beautiful children.

  3. Moses chose to identify the sufferings of his own people.

  4. Moses "looked to the reward" which is through Christ.

  5. Moses' achievements were through his faith -- passover and passing through the Red Sea.

  6. Jericho's fall (Joshua 6:20) was through faith.

  7. Rahab's faith (Joshua 2:9; 6:23; James 2:23) saved her.

JOHN 1:35-42 [See 2nd Sunday after Epiphany]

  1. John the Baptist was also a teacher who had disciples.

  2. Jesus is the lamb of God (vv.29,35) and the Passover Lamb (Exodus 12:1-13) whose blood protected the people from death.

  3. John's utterance persuaded his two disciples to follow Jesus.

  4. Jesus responded by asking them, "What do you seek?"

  5. They wanted to know where he stays so that they can be with Him.

  6. "Come and see" ... Jesu's' invitation

  7. Andrew's personal evangelism 9first evangelist) - his own brother, Simon Peter

  8. Jesus changed Simon's name to Cephas = Peter = Rock

JOHN 1:43-51 (Also 2nd Sunday after Epiphany)

  1. Philip obeyed Jesus' command and followed Him

  2. Philip spread the good news to Nathaniel

  3. "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" - the low regard (Matthew 2:19-23; John 7:41-4, 52)

  4. Nathaniel has no deceit --Jesus saw his heart

  5. Nathaniel would see heaven open and the angels ascending and descending (Genesis 28:10-17).

EPIPHANY/THEOPHANY [FEAST OF LIGHTS] LUKE 3:7-22

NOTE: For the Orthodox Churches, Epiphany is the anniversary of the baptism of Jesus Christ in the river Jordan where as in the western Church, it commemorates principally the revelation to the Gentiles of Jesus Christ as the Savior, as portrayed by the coming of the Three wise men (Matthew 2:1-12). The eve of Epiphany is called Twelfth Night (January 6th) and it is only appropriate to conduct this service in the night just after the evening prayer).

  1. Jesus' sonship was revealed this day: "You are my beloved Son, in you I am well pleased" (3:22). We also receive Sonship through baptism. Father, Son and the Holy Spirit (Holy Trinity) appeared here.

  2. John preached the need of repentance or the consequence will be:"..... every tree which does not bear god fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire" (3:9).

  3. "What shall we do then?": The relinquishing question from the three groups: People, tax collectors, and the soldiers.

  4. Have generosity, honesty, gentleness, and contentment

  5. John baptized with water and told that the One coming after him will baptize with Holy Spirit.

  6. His "sandal strip" he is "not worthy to loose" (3:16): John's humility

  7. John was imprisoned because of his preachings ... for pointing out the atrocities and immoralities of Herod

  8. Christ's baptism with the Holy Spirit cleanses us from sin as fire cleanses physical impurity

  9. Jesus was baptized in the river Jordan through which Joshua guided the Israelites to the Promised Land

  10. Baptism - spiritual Jordan - through which faithful enter into heavenly Jordan. Elijah passed through this river. Naiman took a bath here and healed from leprosy. People who take bath in the spiritual river (baptism) heal from sin.

  11. Jordan's two tributaries pass through the land. Jews and gentiles have equal part in Christ.

  12. In the Epiphany Service, water is River Jordan, covering with Sussaffa is Old Testament Times, bottle and Cross represent Christ, removing Susaffa is end of New Testament and beginning of New Testament, and water pouring in to the baptism font is Jesus' baptism.

  13. By baptism, Jesus was anointed for His Public Ministry (4:17-19).

  14. We should shine through the light of our Lord (1 John 1:5; Matthew 5:14-15; 13:43; John 8:12; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Peter 2:9-10).

GENESIS 24:10-20

  1. Abraham instructs his oldest servant to find a wife for his son Isaac from his own country and family.

  2. The servant was very faithful to do his job.

  3. Rebekah, the dutiful and beautiful, was chosen.

  4. Rebekah's willingness to serve the servants as well as the camels.

NUMBERS 20:1-11

  1. Death and burrial of Miriam in Kadesh

  2. Complaints of people to Moses and Aaron for not having water or food.

  3. Moses and Aaron knelt before God who blessed them by giving power thus brought water out of the rock striking with the rod.

EZEKIEL 47:1-12

  1. God's plan of salvation is like a river flowing from the threshold of the temple, increasing in volume and bringing healing and prosperity to everything it touches : Genesis 2:10; Revelation 22:1

  2. The water that flows heals: Baptism

  3. The trees are fruitful and the fruits are for food and medicine - the Tree of Life (Revelation 22:2): Holy Eucharist.

ISAIAH 12:1-6

  1. God comforts: encourages, strengthens and defends :40:1; John 14:6

  2. God is our salvation and strength: we have to trust Him.

  3. We have to call upon Him and declare the true nature of God to the world.

ACTS 8:35-40;

  1. Philip preached to the eunuch quoting Isaiah 52:13-53:12 thus presenting Jesus Christ who suffered humiliation being consequences of the sins of others. The eunuch declared his faith and Philip baptized him.

  2. Here personal evangelism (vv.26-38); earlier mass evangelism (vv.5-6).

ACTS 19:1-7

  1. John's baptism was of repentance

  2. Paul baptized in the name of Jesus

  3. The Holy Spirit brought purity and power to the baptized: at Pentecost (2:1-4); on Samaritans (8:14-17); on Gentiles at Cornelius' house (10:44-45; 11"15-17) and now in Ephesus (19:6).

HEBREWS 10:15-25

  1. Holy Spirit witnesses to deliverence from sin.

  2. Christ's sacrifice delivers us from the power and the guilt of sin: Jeremiah 31:33-34. No other sacrifice is needed.

  3. Through Jesus Christ, our Living Lord, we have given the boldness to enter His presence.

  4. Christ is the High Priest and we are members of the house of God.

  5. We should approach God with full assurance.. with a heart that is sincere and with a faith that trusts Christ's provision to cleanse us from outward sinful action and an inward sinful tendancy.

  6. God is faithful. We should be too to receive eternal life.

  7. We should encourage and help each other.

TITUS 2:11-3:9

  1. Salvation is offered to all people as a gift of God through Jesus Christ.

  2. We have to renounce worldly desires and to live in holiness.

  3. The second coming of Christ is the blessed hope of the Church and the believers: 1 Peter 1:3-5

  4. Never be intimidated to speak the truth.

  5. We must follow rules and get involved in community works.

  6. Do not speak evil of others even if they speak against us: Romans 12:17-21; 1 Peter 2:21-23

  7. Remember our past faults and mistakes.

  8. Be humble. Show courteous consideration at all times under all circumstances.

  9. Be gentle and help others.

  10. We are all cleansed and renewed through baptism and Holy Spirit.

  11. We are all heirs of that eternal life.

  12. Do good works, the fruit of our salvation.

  13. Avoid disputes and divisions as they are unprofitable and useless.

  14. Jesus at the judgment time selects the righteous .

  15. John baptized Jesus to fulfill all righteousness.

  16. Twofold revelation: vision and voice

  17. The descent of the Spirit was dovelike: Gentle

  18. All three persons of the Holy Trinity are pictured here: Psalms 27: Messiah and Isaiah 42:1: Suffering Servant.

ST. JOHN, THE BAPTIST: [JANUARY 7]

  1. The first and only birth day celebration in the Bible ended in sorrow.

  2. Herod's conscience pricked him (Fidel castro of Cuba stood all the time with the Pope's visit)

  3. John the Baptist: Voice from the wilderness. He to increase, I to decrease. Prepared the way... straightened the crooked...the spirit of Elijah. Spoke against the monarchy and so executed. Even now, those who speak truth and right are persecuted.

  4. King: Wife's persuasion; afraid of the people who listened to the prophet; enjoyed the dance .... unusual promise, request, decision, and promise.

  5. Mother: Her recommendation ... immoral life...dishearte-ned persuasion.

  6. daughter: Helpless child.

GENESIS 4:1-5

  1. God blessed Adam and Eve with Cain and Abel.

  2. God respected Abel's offering than his brother Cain because Abel offered a better sacrifice: Hebrews 11:4 cf. 1 John 3:12.

  3. Cain got angry and murdered his own brother: Matthew 23:35; Luke 11:51; Jude 11.

  4. Cain lied to God. Adam and Eve admitted (3:12-13). One sin leads to another: John 8:44; 1 Corinthians 8:11-13.

  5. We have to be accountable for our siblings... not just keepers.

  6. Abel was punished; became a fugitive.

  7. Sin's punishment is very great. So Christ came.

JEREMIAH 37:11-21

  1. Jeremiah was falsely taken as a traitor and imprisoned.

  2. The prophet questioned his unjust imprisonment.

  3. Zedekiah, the king listened to the prophet.

ISAIAH 40:3-8; 41:8-13

  1. Encouragement through the God's promise of the Messiah.

  2. The enemies are worldly people.

1 PETER 3:12-17

  1. The sinners feel guilty when they see our exemplary conduct.

  2. We have to honor the social institutions like the home and the state.

  3. We have to make our will His will: Luke 22:42.

  4. We have to love every one and honor civil rules but give ultimate loyalty to God.

ROMANS 8:35-39

  1. Nothing will separate us from the love Christ has for us: psalms 44:22.

  2. God's love for us is fully revealed through Jesus Christ: John 16:33; 1 Corinthians 15:57; 2 Corinthians 2:14; 1 John 5:4.

LUKE 3:1-14; 19-20

  1. John the Baptist received revelation from God as did Isaiah (38:4) and Jeremiah (18:1) and other prophets.

  2. Isaiah's prophecy (40:3-5) fulfilled in John's ministry: Levelled the hills and valleys to make a smooth road for the coming of Christ.

  3. Neither ancestry nor church membership are sufficient for salvation.

  4. Repent and change

  5. Be generous, honest, gentle, and content (Answers to the three groups).

  6. John publicly rebuked Herod.

MARK 6:14-29

  1. Some thought of Jesus as Elijah (Malachi 4:5), others as the prophet (Deuteronomy 18:5).

  2. Herodia wanted to destroy John, but Herod protected him

  3. Unrealistic promise of Herod to his daughter.

  4. Herod was extremely sorry for what he hid.

ST. STEPHEN, THE MARTYR: [JANUARY 8]

DEUTERONOMY 34:7-12

  1. Moses died at the age of 120 and people mourned for 30 days.

  2. Joshua became his successor.

  3. Moses was the greatest.

ISAIAH 37:8-20

  1. When threatened by the enemy, prayer to God is in order (vv. 15ff)

  2. God answers the prayers (21ff).

ACTS 7:51-8:2

  1. Stephen defends his stand by pointing out that that his persecutors murdered the prophets and so they are sinners.

  2. Stephen was stoned to death because he told the truth.

  3. Stephen prayed for them. Cf. Matthew 5:44; Luke 23:34.

  4. Devotees lamented over the death.

  5. Saul (Paul) witnessed this martyrdom and contined the persecution.

MARK 12:1-12

  1. The prophets God sent were martyred.

  2. They killed His only Son who was sent..

  3. There rejections result in judgement.

  4. Jesus became the cornerstone: Psalms 118:22-23.

JOHN 8:34-59

  1. Jesus could free sinners

  2. Those who reject Jesus could not be the children of God.

  3. To prove that one is the descendant of his ancestors, he has to follow his forefather's footsteps.

  4. Lack of love (v.42), refusal to listen (v.43), and evil desires (v.44) are bad omens.

  5. See the truth rather than rebuke: vv.48-51

  6. If we follow Jesus, we will have eternal life.

  7. Fault finders find excuses: vv.52-53.

  8. Know our father, our God Almighty: vv.54-59

MATTHEW 23:34-39

  1. Martyrdom may be the end result of many of His followers.

  2. Abel was the first martyr (Genesis 4:8) and Zechariah, the last one in Old Testament: 2 Chronicles 24:20-21.

  3. God protects and keeps His children like a hen keeps her chicks under her wings.

  4. The destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 by the Roman army under Titus was interpreted as the punishment of the Pharisees for their crimes.

  5. Those who follow Him are blessed.

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY : MATTHEW 4:12-22

  1. John's ministry ends and Jesus' starts after baptism and temptation . .. preached against immorality and sin ... pointed out the flaws and to change the attitudes: St. paul (Acts 17:30), St. Peter (2 Peter 3:9), John the Baptist (Matthew 3:6). The Church has to continue the same kind of ministry.

  2. Jesus fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy: 8:9; 9:1-2).

  3. Jesus is the light of the world. People in the dark saw the light of eternity at the Public Ministry of Christ. Those who heard Him turned from darkness to light. God's salvation is provided to them.

  4. Jesus 's first preaching ... preached to repent ... to change one's life, to turn away from sin to God and also not to repeat the mistakes (2 Corinthians 7:8-10) --- prodigal son, Mary Magdaline, Zaaccheus, Peter, thief ---, to lead pure life and good works ... to change habits .... should have God's works: 1 Corinthians 15:10; Romans 14:8 ... with Holy Spirit: John 10:8; Acts 2:36). A habit is a learned pattern of acting - a way of behaving that has become routine. We are creatures of habit. When we develop bad habits, we have to change. We have to reinforce good habits and discourage bad ones.

    a. Admit we have a bad habit b. Evaluate why we are doing it - childhood conditioning, subconscious desires, rational or irrational fears, peer pressure, bad influence ( Ephesians 2:2). c. Realize that there is a way to break the bad habit. There is a struggle to do it (Romans 7:19-20). We have to work hard. d. Need conviction: convince that it is worth it. If there is a will, there is a way. e. Change immediately, not graduaaly. Stop the negative habit immediately. Don't go after the temptation. f. Help others to break the habit. We need God's help for a happy, productive, outgoing change of human nature. We have to live God's ay which gives us strength: Philippians 4:13.

  5. The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand because Christ is here. It is the heavenly experience: Romans 14:17.

  6. Jesus called the first Apostles ... called Simon Peter and Andrew to leave the old sinful way of life. Also called James and John .... all fishermen were called by name..

  7. God selected Jacob, Moses, David, etc., in the Old Testament to lead. Christ selected fishermen and ordinary people. Went from Nazareth to Galilee to select the disciples from the Gentiles: 1 Corinthians 1:28-29.

  8. They left their belongings - boat and net - and followed Him without questioning, not expecting any reward. Not possible for every one.

  9. The disciples called were masters of their trade ... fishermen, tax collector, tent builder, etc. Church grows through the works of such faithfuls. Rich or poor, illiterate or learned, employer or employee, all are parts of one body, Jesus Christ. Shouldn't be any kind of tug of war. Should have mutual respect: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.

  10. Patience, perseverence, and hard work needed to do the work: 1 Corinthians 2:2; John 1:38.

GENESIS 25:19-34

  1. Isaac pleaded for children and God granted his plea.

  2. We could inquire of the Lord when we do not understand: v.22.

  3. God's people are always subject to His interventions: 1 Corinthians 1:20-21.

  4. Esau and Jacob were born when Isaac was sixty years old.

  5. Isaac loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.

  6. Esau sold his birthright to Jacob for the stew he cooked.

2 KINGS 5:1-14
Naaman was an honorable man, but a leper:

a.

Victory to the country because of Naaman:(5:1):Through us, blessings to others, not headache.

b.

The Lord gave victory (5:1); success in our life not because of our merit, but because of God's mercy.

c.

Naaman became a great and honorable man in the eyes of his master (5:1): not gave him any high position or any special reward: Do not expect too much or an immediate reward.

e.

Naaman was a mighty man (5:1): No use of those who don't do anything. Some people just talk, but no action.

f.

He was a leper (5:1): Many are like this: From an honorable family, but hits his wife; educated, but smoker and alcoholic; married, but immoral life; church goer, but do not receive communion; spiritual worker, but no family prayer at home. What is our leprosy?

g.

No treatment for leprosy in those days: Not sought God's help. Reconcile with others? Stop gossipping? Stop utter lies? Pride, jealous, etc. to stop? Need self-examination. Need treatment when see color changes in the skin: Repentance, fasting, prayer. In 1989, "Washington for Jesus" ... President Reagon apologized for all the errors and mistakes in the past; white man and black man forgave each other: cf.

  1. Chronicle 21:8 (David); 2 Chronicles 7:12-14 (Solomon); Psalm 131:2; 84:5-7. Miriam became a lepor because of her sin (Numbers 12:10); Uzziah, a lepor, all his life (2 Chronicles 26:9-21). The days of the mourning shall be ended (Isaiah 60:20).

  2. The mission of the waitress: her master to seek the help of the prophet, Elisha. Because of a little slave girl, Naaman was cured.

  3. When he heard of the prophet, Naaman went (with silver and gold)

  4. Elisha told Naaman to go and wash in Jordan seven times

  5. Hesistently (had doubts) Naaman did and was cleaned

  6. Jordan is foreshadow of Jesus Christ: When took bath, he was cured.

  7. Naaman who came with gold returned cured with two male-loads of earth.

  8. The importance of the earth that touched the footsteps of a holy man.

ISAIAH 49:8-13

  1. The return from Babylon is an image of a much deeper and greater return:cf. 11:1-12; 35:3-10; 61:4-7; 63:10-12

  2. The people return because of the Servant.

ACTS 2:37-47

  1. Repent and be baptized (Mark 1:4) in the name of Jesus Christ and receive the Holy Spirit: John 17:20; Acts 11:16-17

  2. 3000 people received Jesus Christ

  3. The fivefold results of conversion: steadfastness, doctrine, fellowship, eating together and prayers

  4. Wonders and signs reinforced their teaching: Mark 16:17; Hebrews 2:4

  5. Stewardship: Sharing of goods for the benefit of the less fortunate

  6. In Christ, everybody together, not in isolation

  7. This leads to have favor with all the people.

EPHESIANS 1:3-14

  1. Holiness (v.4)

  2. Adoption (5-6)

  3. Redemption (7-8)

  4. Knowledge of His will (9-10)

  5. Eternal inheritance (11-14)

MARK 1:14-34

  1. John the Baptist who prepared for Jesus' Ministry was imprisoned

  2. Jesus continued the preaching about repentance and belief

  3. Jesus called disciples Simon and Andrew while they were working

  4. Jesus spoke with authority and they immediately followed Him

  5. James and John also followed Him immediately leaving their occupation and family

  6. Jesus demonstrated His divine power in word (v.21) and deed (vv.22-28) by healing a man with unclean spirit and also Simon's mother -in-law (1 Corinthians 9:5), and several others who were sick and demon possessed.

  7. Jesus doesn't want them to spread the news then (1:34,44; 5:43; 7:36; 8:26), only after He had risen from the dead (8:30; 9:9). He did not want to believe in Him based upon demonic testimony. Only at trial, Jesus claimed He is Christ (14:62).

JOHN 1:18-28

  1. Only Jesus Christ had seen God the Father

  2. John the Baptist declared that he is not Christ, nor Elijah (Malachi 4:5) or the prophet (Deuteronomy 18:15, 18)

  3. John is a herald preparing the Way for the Lord's coming: Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1

  4. John's humility: Not worthy to loose the sandal strip of Jesus.

SECOND SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY JOHN 1:26-51

  1. John baptized with water (v.26) and Jesus with the Holy Spirit (v.33)

  2. Humility of John: Not worthy to loose His sandral strap

  3. Jesus, the Lamb of God, vv.29, 35) offered an atonement for sin (Leveticus 4:27-35) and the passover lamb (Exodus 12:1-13)

  4. John's mission was to reveal Jesus Christ

  5. The manifestation assured John that the one he had baptized was indeed the Son of God.

  6. Jesus invites John's disciples to come and see (1:39). Following is very important: Following Him (1 Corinthians 11:1) is imitating Him - glorify God (John 17:4), obey Him (John 8:50), do His will (John 5:30), sacrifice (Mark 10:46), prayer and submission (Matthew 26:39). Later Philip (from Bethsaida) told Nathaniel to come and see (1:46)... catching human beings.... spread the news.

  7. Andrew brought his brother Simon to Jesus: personal evangelism

  8. Jesus saw in Simon a rocklike character which made him the spokeman and leader.

  9. Philip perceived that Jesus indeed is the Christ as attested by Moses and the prophets and followed Him ... shows how to deal with doubtors.

  10. Galileans were held in low regard (Matthew 2:19-23) so that they wonder whether any good come out of Nazareth (1:45): prejudgment.

  11. Philip preached about Jesus to Nathaniel and invited him to come and see Jesus (to get acquainted). Like Philip, we must be guide and help to others in seeing Jesus and solving problems.

  12. Nathaniel was a man without deceit (Jesus: No guile /deceit in Nathaniel; No other greater person than John; Peter is the rock to build His Church). Nathaniel used to sit under the fig tree (learning place for the Jews) in reading and meditating (Psalms 1:6). Philip told Him that he saw Jesus of Nazareth, a small town not famous. There was no mention that Jesus will be coming from there. That is why he asked whether any good will be coming from there. Philip told him to come and see. Without any doubt, Nathaniel followed Philip to see the savior (Hebrews 2:3-4). Therefore he was able to meet Him and accept Him. We have to sanctify Him in our heart to see Jesus (1 Peter 3:14). Jesus is the word of Life (1 John 1:1). Disciples saw Jesus through their own eyes and tested Him to be good. The wisemen also did the same. Herod could not see the infant Jesus. He murdered the infants. Those who see Jesus wholeheartedly can see the angels going up and down through the opened doors of heavens. Nathaniel was meditating the events that Jacob saw in his vision (Genesis 28:10-17 cf. Luke 2:9, 13; Acts 1:10; 7:55-56). Jesus is the ladder to go to heaven. We should have such blessings. Jacob was not straightforward before became Israel (Genesis 27:35-36). When God callled, Adam and Eve had covered themselves because of their lost situation (Genesis 3:8-19). Jesus called common people with external and internal beauty. Be like infants ((1 Peter 2:1), not of the tricks of the world (Romans 12:1-2). Complete change to Simon and Nathaniel by going to Jesus.

  13. Nathaniel corrected himself and accepted Jesus as teacher, king of Israel, and Son of God, like Peter. When he met Jesus, goodness came to him. Christ must live in our hearts (Ephesians 3:17). God looks the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). We should see God and experience who He is. Should not have sin or transgression (Psalms 32:2). Here Nathaniel later became Bartholomew, a disciple.

  14. He who believes and acknowledges Jesus as the Son of God will see greater things.

  15. Jesus' look and the invitation to come made the difference. cf. Luke 22:61. "Jesus looked Peter." In the garden Peter struck the ear of the servant; after that he followed Jesus (courage); denied three times (selfishness); human action, not divine; liked praises; no self-knowledge (warning during Last Supper and at Gethsamanae). Jesus still loved him by His look; no anger or enemity.

  16. They spread whatever they saw and heard.

  17. "We saw Him", "come and see'....Is there anything to see?

  18. Magnifying, personal and spiritual inputs in each person who saw Jesus.

LEVETICUS 22:26-33

  1. God accepts free will offering

  2. God is our Lord: We shall keep His commandments.

PROVERBS 9:1-9

  1. Wisdom brings maturity

  2. The appeal of the good woman: Her house is well bult and will not fall: Matthew 7:24-27

  3. The wise man accepts correction and grows wiser; the scoffer doesn't.

ISAIAH 55:1-8

  1. God fulfills our needs if we approach Him with gratitude: Matthew 11:28

  2. We have to seek and call Him with our needs.

1 PETER 3:7-15

  1. Husbands should understand their wives, respect them, and give priority to their well-being.

  2. We should be of one mind, should have sympathy for others, love, tenderhearted, and kind

  3. When we return good for evil, we receive blessings (3: 10-12; Psalms 34:12-16).

  4. It is better to do the right thing even if we have to suffer.

  5. We should give our testimony with humility toward others and with reverence toward God.

HEBREWS 1:1-2:4

  1. The full revelation of God in the Son completes the partial Old Testament revelations.

  2. Sin and death are now under Christ Jesus.

  3. Jesus is Son (vv. 2, 5, 6), the divine heir and ruler (2, 8), through whom God created the world (2, 10-12). He is exalted to the right hand of God (3, 9, 13).

  4. Angels are only ministerial spirits (vv. 4-14), but Jesus is the eternal Son who became man, suffered and was exalted.

  5. We must obey Jesus Christ with whom salvation came and miraculously confirmed by God through gifts of the Holy Spirit.

THIRD SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY JOHN 3:1-12

  1. Nichodemos only in St. John's Gospel.

  2. Here to seek the kingdom of God, later as a defendant (John 7:51), and then at the burial: John 19:38.

  3. Nicodemus was a leader. But he was a coward. That is why he came in the night to see Jesus.

  4. .He has great concern to know how to inherit the kingdom of God.

  5. Those who desire and seek truth shall be properly rewarded (cf. James 1:5). Go to Jesus to be rewarded. Do not stay away.

  6. Sinceriety of Nicodemus... came in the night. But Jesus turned light into him (Zaacheus climbed on a tree to see Jesus: concealed identity). Iscariot, became a disciple, but did not believe.

  7. Jesus respected his desire and concern.

  8. Transformation of the heart by the Holy Spirit. Regener-ation (Romans 8:15-17) through water and spirit - baptism - (Galatians 6:15; Titus 3:5; James 1:18; 1 Peter 1:23; 1 John 3:9) is needed. Christ to form in us (Galatians 4:19); then a new person (Ephesians 4:19). Jesus showed this through His own baptism Water cleanses. Holy Spirit purifies. Holy Spirit signifies purification and life. To renew and strengthen through prayer and holy communion (John 15:5). Crucify self (Luke 9:23; Romans 6:12-14) to inherit Christ's character.

  9. By baptism all become new: Romans 6:33; Colossians 2:12; Galatians 3:27; Titus 3:6. Complete change from the old state of affairs. Repentance and spiritual birth.

  10. Watch and see the day to day life of born again Christians. Any change?

  11. As a person and a teacher, Nicodemus couldn't understand the truth of birth from above. Those who couldn't understand the earthly affairs do have difficulties to acknowledge heavenly experiences. We have to understand God's love and plan of salvation.

  12. "Amen, Amen" (truly, truly/most asuredly) 25 times in St. John and 50 times in the other three Gospels.

  13. Preach what we know and witness what has been seen:. Study faith and Bible to do so. Share and witness. Do the will of God.

2 KINGS 2:19-22

  1. Elisha had done great things (8:4) -Healed the bad water

  2. Youth who mocked the prophet were mauled by bears.

JOEL 2:21-32

  1. God blessed the land in coming back to life after the locust plague.

  2. God is in our midst (v.27) to deliver us.

  3. God's promise of the universe outporing of the Holy Spirit was fulfilled in the New Testament (Acts 2:16, 39).

  4. Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.

JEREMIAH 31:1-12

  1. Just as the Lord led Israel into the wilderness, protecting them from the sword of the Egyptian enemies, so His loving kindness will support His people.

  2. Join a song of praise with a prayer to save.

  3. God restores because He loves with the love of a parent: Hosea 11:1-2.

ACTS 17:16-34

  1. Paul witnessed Jesus where ever he went.

  2. The encounters brought Paul to explain his new doctrine.

  3. By taking a text from an Athenian altar (v. 23: "TO THE UNKNOWN GOD"), Paul presented his own God who created the world.

  4. God, the creator made verything and every body alike in the urge to seek the Lord through repentence and service.

  5. Several listened to Paul and believed in Jesus.

1 CORINTHIANS 3:16-4:5

  1. The whole body of believers together made up the temple of God.

  2. The Church is holy. God punishes those who defiles His Church with divisions and contention.

  3. Christians should not boast in the foolishness of human wisdom, but glory in what God has done for them.

  4. We are all in Christ and so we are secure.

  5. God judges each one of us, not we each other.

JOHN 3: 22- 4:3

  1. John the Baptist and Jesus ministered in the same area of Judea: 22-24.

  2. John clarified to John's disciples that Jesus is superior to him: vv. 27-30

  3. "He must increase, but I must decrease" (v. 30): Isaiah 9:7

  4. Like the best man brings the bride to the bridegroom, John brought the people of Isreal to Jesus.

  5. Jesus came from heaven with fulness of spirit from God and has been giving to His followers as God's gift (Acts 1:4,5).

  6. Faith in Christ brings everlasting life, but disbelief brings the wrath of God.

  7. Jesus' activity increased and added more members to the fold.

JOHN 5: 31- 47

  1. Three witnesses point out the testimony about Jesus:

    a. John the Baptist (vv.33- 35): was according to truth

    b. Jesus' own words (v. 36): His works revealed His diety

    c. The Scriptures (v. 39), especially the writings of Moses (45-47) cf. Deuteronomy 18:15, 18; John 1:45; Acts 26:22.

  2. The Jewish leaders rejected the One who came in the Father's name.

MAYALTHO: THE PRESENTATION OF INFANT JESUS IN THE TEMPLE [LUKE 2:22-40]

  1. Sunday School Day of the American Diocese... presenting our growing children before God in the church.

  2. To follow the Law, Mary and Joseph presented Jesus to the Lord for a life service (First born to be presented to God in rememberance of the exile bondage experience)

  3. We have been saved by the blood of Jesus Christ. So we have to submit ourselves before God. We are not of ours (1 Corinthians 6:19).

  4. Because they were too poor to offer a lamb (Leveticus 12:8), they offered turtle doves or young pigeons for purification.

  5. Two prophets (Simon and Anna) witnessed the presentation of Infant Jesus at the temple.

  6. Church is the temple, house of God (1Timothy 3:15). The holiness of its members is the wealth of the Church. God's presence in the Church show through worship and Godly people's presence (Simon and Anna there).

  7. Simon is a model for pleasing service to our Lord: righteous, dedicated, looking for the coming of the Messiah, and was directed by the Holy Spirit. He held Jesus in His hands.

  8. Simeon's great purpose for living had been fulfilled.

  9. Simeon's three prophecies: (1) Jesus will cause for the fall and rise of many (2) Jesus is a sign from God, and (3) Mary would be pierced with grief at the crucifixion of her son (Luke 2:35): Fear, sorrow, doubts of the unwedded pregnancy, no place to deliver, wandering with the child, afraid of the ruler, leaving the child in the temple, becoming widow, son leaving home at 30, threats from the Jewish leaders, trial scene, sight of son carrying the cross, crucifixion, death and burrial - all these made her sword to pierce her heart..

  10. The spiritual attitudes of the people will be revealed through the acceptance or rejection of Christ.

  11. The 84 year old Anna was a regular prayer attendant with prayers and fastings.

  12. Anna who witnessed the presentation spread the news.

  13. Jesus, like John (1:80), grew and became strong with divine strength.

LEVETICUS 12:1-8; 19:30-37

  1. Israel placed higher value on a son over a daughter. Uncleanliness for a son is 40 days, but 80 days for a daughter.

  2. Burnt offering and Sin offering after the purification days for atonement.

  3. If cannot afford a lamb, two turtle doves or two young pigeons to be offered.

  4. Everybody shall keep the Sabbath.

  5. Do not go after spiritism to choose darkness rather than light.

  6. Honor the senior citizens: Proverbs 23:22; 1 Timothy 5:1; Lamentations 5:12.

  7. Love strangers, not just only neighbors

  8. Be honest in judgment and dealings

  9. "I am the Lord" ... used 13 times in this chapter.

PROVERBS 6:20-24; 23:22-26

  1. Observe a good father's command

  2. Follow the law of a loving mother.

  3. These commandments and laws are those of God.

ISAIAH 11:1-10

  1. The promise of the Messiah

  2. The Messiah will be descendant of David, the stem of Jesse.

  3. God's spirit will rest upon Him

  4. He will fear the Lord

  5. He will judge the world with righteousness

  6. The death and destruction will be defeated and arrogance and pomp will not be signs of leadership

  7. The gentiles will seek Him.

ACTS 24:10-23

  1. Paul denies the accusation against him.

  2. Paul affirms that most of his accusers shared the resurrection of the just and unjust.

  3. Every Christian should have a clear conscience.

  4. Paul brought a gift from the gentile Churches to the Christians at Jerusalem as an expression of thanks (1 Corinthians 16:1-4; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Romans 15:25-33).

  5. Paul got liberty and friends got visitation privileges.

EPHESIANS 3:13-21; 6:1-4

  1. The truth will be realized in our lives.

  2. The Holy Spirit cleanses and empowers the heart

  3. The basic Christian growth: strengthened by the Spirit, have the indwelling Christ, and to be established in the love.

  4. We have to be rooted like a tree and grounded in the love.

  5. In Christian faith, we can grasp the magnitude of God's love.

  6. The fulness of this love passes our human knowledge: the fulness of the blessing (Romans 15:29).

  7. God's power works in us with His blessings.

  8. Children are ought to obey their parents (6:1-3). In 5:22, wives are told to be submissive.

  9. Parents should not be unreasonably severe with children; instruct and correct them consistently to serve the Lord.

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER MAYALTHO: [MATTHEW 4:12-22]

  1. John's ministry ends and Jesus' starts after baptism and temptation . .. preached against immorality and sin ... pointed out the flaws and to change the attitudes: St. paul (Acts 17:30), St. Peter (2 Peter 3:9), John the Baptist (Matthew 3:6). The Church has to continue the same kind of ministry.

  2. Jesus fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy: 8:9; 9:1-2).

  3. Jesus is the light of the world. People in the dark saw the light of eternity at the Public Ministry of Christ. Those who heard Him turned from darkness to light. God's salvation is provided to them.

  4. Jesus 's first preaching ... preached to repent ... to change one's life, to turn away from sin to God and also not to repeat the mistakes (2 Corinthians 7:8-10) --- prodigal son, Mary Magdaline, Zaaccheus, Peter, thief ---, to lead pure life and good works ... to change habits .... should have God's works: 1 Corinthians 15:10; Romans 14:8 ... with Holy Spirit: John 10:8; Acts 2:36). A habit is a learned pattern of acting - a way of behaving that has become routine. We are creatures of habit. When we develop bad habits, we have to change. We have to reinforce good habits and discourage bad ones.

    a.

    Admit we have a bad habit

    b.

    Evaluate why we are doing it - childhood conditioning, subconscious desires, rational or irrational fears, peer pressure, bad influence ( Ephesians 2:2).

    c.

    Realize that there is a way to break the bad habit. There is a struggle to do it (Romans 7:19-20). We have to work hard.

    d.

    Need conviction: convince that it is worth it. If there is a will, there is a way.

    e.

    Change immediately, not graduaaly. Stop the negative habit immediately. Don't go after the temptation.

    f.

    Help others to break the habit. We need God's help for a happy, productive, outgoing change of human nature. We have to live God's ay which gives us strength: Philippians 4:13.

  5. The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand because Christ is here. It is the heavenly experience: Romans 14:17.

  6. Jesus called the first Apostles ... called Simon Peter and Andrew to leave the old sinful way of life. Also called James and John .... all fishermen were called by name..

  7. God selected Jacob, Moses, David, etc., in the Old Testament to lead. Christ selected fishermen and ordinary people. Went from Nazareth to Galilee to select the disciples from the Gentiles: 1 Corinthians 1:28-29.

  8. They left their belongings - boat and net - and followed Him without questioning, not expecting any reward. Not possible for every one.

  9. The disciples called were masters of their trade ... fishermen, tax collector, tent builder, etc. Church grows through the works of such faithfuls. Rich or poor, illiterate or learned, employer or employee, all are parts of one body, Jesus Christ. Shouldn't be any kind of tug of war. Should have mutual respect: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27.

  10. Patience, perseverence, and hard work needed to do the work: 1 Corinthians 2:2; John 1:38.

GENESIS 25:19-34

  1. Isaac pleaded for children and God granted his plea.

  2. We could inquire of the Lord when we do not understand: v.22.

  3. God's people are always subject to His interventions: 1 Corinthians 1:20-21.

  4. Esau and Jacob were born when Isaac was sixty years old.

  5. Isaac loved Esau, but Rebekah loved Jacob.

  6. Esau old his birthright to Jacob for the stew he cooked.

2 KINGS 5:1-14

  1. Naaman was an honorable man, but a leper:

    a.

    Victory to the country because of Naaman:(5:1): Through us, blessings to others, not headache.

    b.

    The Lord gave victory (5:1); success in our life not because of our merit, but because of God's mercy.

    c.

    Naaman became a great and honorable man in the eyes of his master (5:1): not gave him any high position or any special reward: Do not expect too much or an immediate reward.

    d.

    Naaman was a mighty man (5:1): No use of those who don't do anything. Some people just talk, but no action.

    f.

    He was a leper (5:1): Many are like this: From an honorable family, but hits his wife; educated, but smoker and alcoholic; married, but immoral life; church goer, but do not receive communion; spiritual worker, but no family prayer at home. What is our leprosy?

    g.

    No treatment for leprosy in those days: Not sought God's help. Reconcile with others? Stop gossipping? Stop utter lies? Pride, jealous, etc. to stop? Need self-examination. Need treatment when see color changes in the skin: Repentance, fasting, prayer. In 1989, "Washington for Jesus" ... President Reagon apologized for all the errors and mistakes in the past; white man and black man forgave each other: cf. 1 Chronicle 21:8 (David); 2 Chronicles 7:12-14 (Solomon); Psalm 131:2; 84:5-7. Miriam became a lepor because of her sin (Numbers 12:10); Uzziah, a lepor, all his life (2 Chronicles 26:9-21). The days of the mourning shall be ended (Isaiah 60:20).

  2. The mission of the waitress: her master to seek the help of the prophet, Elisha. Because of a little slave girl, Naaman was cured.

  3. When he heard of the prophet, Naaman went (with silver and gold)

  4. Elisha told Naaman to go and wash in Jordan seven times

  5. Hesistently (had doubts) Naaman did and was cleaned

  6. Jordan is foreshadow of Jesus Christ: When took bath, he was cured.

  7. Naaman who came with gold returned cured with two male-loads of earth.

  8. The importance of the earth that touched the footsteps of a holy man.

ISAIAH 49:8-13

  1. The return from Babylon is an image of a much deeper and greater return:cf. 11:1-12; 35:3-10; 61:4-7; 63:10-12

  2. The people return because of the Servant.

ACTS 2:37-47

  1. Repent and be baptized (Mark 1:4) in the name of Jesus Christ and receive the Holy Spirit: John 17:20; Acts 11:16-17

  2. 3000 people received Jesus Christ

  3. The fivefold results of conversion: steadfastness, doctrine, fellowship, eating together and prayers

  4. Wonders and signs reinforced their teaching: Mark 16:17; Hebrews 2:4

  5. Stewardship: Sharing of goods for the benefit of the less fortunate

  6. In Christ, everybody together, not in isolation

  7. This leads to have favor with all the people.

EPHESIANS 1:3-14

  1. Holiness (v.4) 2. Adoption (5-6)

  2. Redemption (7-8) 4. Knowledge of His will (9-10)

  3. Eternal inheritance (11-14)

MARK 1:14-34

  1. John the Baptist who prepared for Jesus' Ministry was imprisoned

  2. Jesus continued the preaching about repentance and belief

  3. Jesus called disciples Simon and Andrew while they were working

  4. Jesus spoke with authority and they immediately followed Him

  5. James and John also followed Him immediately leaving their occupation and family

  6. Jesus demonstrated His divine power in word (v.21) and deed (vv.22-28) by healing a man with unclean spirit and also Simon's mother -in-law (1 Corinthians 9:5), and several others who were sick and demon possessed.

  7. Jesus doesn't want them to spread the news then (1:34,44; 5:43; 7:36; 8:26), only after He had risen from the dead (8:30; 9:9). He did not want to believe in Him based upon demonic testimony. Only at trial, Jesus claimed He is Christ (14:62).

JOHN 1:18-28

  1. Only Jesus Christ had seen God the Father

  2. John the Baptist declared that he is not Christ, nor Elijah (Malachi 4:5) or the prophet (Deuteronomy 18:15, 18)

  3. John is a herald preparing the Way for the Lord's coming: Isaiah 40:3; Malachi 3:1

  4. John's humility: Not worthy to loose the sandal strip of Jesus.

THE FAST OF NINEVEH

  1. Nineveh Fast, one of the Five, only for the Orthodox Church... for repentance and confession.

  2. Jonah was son of Amittai (Joshua 19:10-13; 2 Kings 14:25). Lived between B.C. 818-768 during the times of Kings Josiah and Jeroboam.

  3. Jonah: Dove:

  4. Harmless as dove: Matthew 10:16

  5. Have wings like a dove to fly away to rest: Psalms 55:6

  6. Mourn and moan like a dove: Isaiah 38:14; 59:11

  7. Descend like a dove: Matthew 3:16

  8. Jesus was born from St. Mary who was blameless like a dove.

  9. Nineveh, a city of the Gentiles on the East side...today's Iraq. Joppa is modern Jaffa, a seaport for Jerusalem in Old Testament times. Tarshish was on the West. God called Jonah, but he did not like to preach in Nineveh. He did not care for the salvation of his enemies. So he ran away...instead of East, to the West, instead of on the land, went through the sea. He listened, but did against. Went 2000 miles West, instead of 500 miles East. Like away from God during prayer, fasting, Sacramental services, etc.

  10. "Arise and go": God told to Jonah to go to Nineveh; but he went to Tarshish (Bird flew away from the cage. "How far" king asked. "About five miles" was the answer. So still in the garden. We are in His garden).

  11. Jonah's sins (1:2):

    a.

    Went away

    b.

    Went to the bottom

    c.

    Went to sleep.

  12. Lost sleep...problem to everybody...lost mental peace.

  13. Arise and pray (1:6): First God told him to arise. Now, the captain, a gentile.

  14. It is high time to awake out of sleep: Romans 13:11

  15. Sleeping in sin: Samson (Judges 13-16)...alcohol, drugs, hoarding wealth, etc.

  16. In laziness: Proverbs 6:6-9; Talents hid: Matthew 25:26.

  17. 4 kinds of Christians:

    A.

    Nasli: By birth

    B.

    Nakli: By imitation

    C.

    Fasli: Special occasions...Festival days only, like Christmas, Good Friday, Elections, etc.

    D.

    Asli: Actual Christians with fruits of the spirit: Galatians 5:22 (Love, joy, patience, etc.)

  18. Jonah was punished for disobedience: Thrown into the sea.

  19. God saved him from the belly of the fish

  20. Jonah repented and prayed: Psalms 18:6; 31:6; 42:3, 7, 32; 69:1; 116:17-18; 120:1. God's words: Psalms 119:50.

  21. Nineveh's conversion. When we change and repent, God comes to our rescue. Isaiah 1:10-20; Joel 2:12-13; John 3:10; 6:37.

  22. Importance of running to God; through prayer, meditation, offering, charity works.

  23. Running with God: Enoch walked with God. So also Elijah, disciples, etc.

  24. Running infront of God: Disturbance, destruction, desperation and punishment. God's gift of a plant for shade, punishment of damaging and withering the plant with a worm and the vehement east wind that made the sun beat on Jonah's head. Fasting and repentance help to get back to God. Wash and clean: Isaiah 1:15-16.

  25. Jonah is Church and the sailors, world.

GENESIS 18:23-33

  1. Abraham, the intercessor stood before the Lord and pleaded for the salvation of others.

  2. Abraham asked mercy from God with humility.

  3. God was ready to go thousands of wicked unpunished if He had found at least ten righteous people were found.

  4. Only one righteous person was found, and Lot was spared though the city was not.

JOSIAH 7:6-20

  1. When Israel was defeated, Joshua knelt down before the ark of the Lord and prayed.

  2. Joshua had not forsaken God, but the people did.

  3. God wanted to sanctify.

  4. Achan was identified by casting lots: cf. 1 samuel 14:41-42.

  5. Achan confessed his sins: vv. 20ff.

EXODUS 22:28-30

  1. Give respect to human authorities and revered God.

  2. Offer first produce and first born to God.

EXODUS 23:1-9

  1. Testimony must always be dependable and faithful.

  2. The morality of an individual is greater than that of the crowd.

  3. Do not show partiality even to the disadvantaged.

  4. Help your enemies

  5. Keep away from false matters.

  6. Do not kill.

  7. Do not take bribe ... it leads to corruption.

  8. Show care and friendship to strangers ... do not oppress them.

NUMBERS 5:5-10

  1. A person who offends another is to confess the sin and make restitution.

  2. Restitution requires more than compensation: Leviticus 5:16.

ISAIAH 19:17-22

  1. Egypt will come to Judah to seek God.

  2. They will all return to God.

ISAIAH 57:13-19

  1. He who puts His trust in God will be blessed.

  2. Peace to the contrite, not to the wicked.

  3. Self-centered desire of refusal to submit to God in trust and obedience cause backsliding: Luke 8:13-14.

  4. God restores the repentant, but His peace is not available to those who persist in their wickedness: Psalms 1:6.

ISAIAH 41:17-26

  1. When the poor and needy seek water, God provides: salvation.

  2. The idols cannot do anything because they are "nothing."

BOOK OF JONAH 1:1-17

  1. Jonah was told to go to Nineveh, the gentile capital of Assyria, a symbol of power and might but was hated by all the people, to call for repentance.

  2. Instead, Jonah fled to Tarshish in a ship, the opposite direction from Nineveh foolishly believing that changing locations would remove him from his mission.

  3. Everyone in the ship cried to his God except Jonah who went to the bottom part of the ship and slept.

  4. The captain found him and told him to arise and pray.

  5. The lot fell on Jonah and he was questioned.

  6. What is your occupation? Where do you come from? What is your country? Of what people are you?

    Three weaknesses to Jonah:

    a.

    went away

    b.

    Went to

    c.

    Slept ... sin.

    First God told him: "Arise and go"; Here the Gentile captain: "Arise and pray"

  7. Jonah said that he fears the Lord ... but not really.

  8. Jonah accepted his responsibility and punishment for his own actions.

  9. They made every effort to save Jonah even risking their own lives (v.13).

  10. They prayed to Jonah's God ... became an agent of evangelism.

  11. Fish swallowed Jonah --- three days and three nights in its belly: Matthew 12:40; Luke 11:30.

JONAH 2:1-10

Jonah's prayer: cf. Psalms 9, 30, 145:21: Told his distress, cried to God, and God responded.

JONAH 3:1-10

  1. "Arise": Second time (1:2; 3:2)

  2. Jonah went to Nineveh and preached to repent.

  3. Proclaimed a fast for repentance.

  4. The king also followed the suit and published the decree.

  5. God changed His mind in response to their action - repentance (see Ahab and Manassah: 1 Kings 21:29; 2 Chronicles 33:12-13).

JONAH 4:1-11

  1. Jonah got angry because Assyria was not destroyed.

  2. God's loving kindness: God is gracious and meciful.

  3. An angry Jonah was ready to die: worldly mind (Romans8:7-8).

  4. Unholy attitudes to be changed.

  5. Jonah made himself a shelter and the shade of the plant gave him protection.

  6. The worm damaged the plant and the sun beat on Jonah's head (bald?) which made him angry again.

  7. God showed His sympathy, love and concern toward His creation: The universal love and the sovereignty of God (storm and wind).

ACTS 8:9-25

  1. Philip preached in Samaria

  2. Many, including Simon the sorcerer, accepted Jesus Christ.

  3. Jerusalem Church sent Peter and John to Samaria who laid hands (13:1-3; 1 Timothy 4:14) on the Samaritan believers to receive the Holy Spirit.

  4. Simon's offer of money to receive the power and Peter's rebuke.

  5. Spiritual power is a gift of God to be used for the blessing of the Church. To try to obtain with money or by one's own work for selfish ends is great wickedness.

  6. It is not sure whether Simon really repented and received pardon.

  7. The Apostles preached in many villages of Samaria and thus Samaritans became an accepted part of the Church.

ACTS 13:6-12

  1. Barnabas and Saul preached in Cyprus.

  2. The sorcerers prevented them to preach to the proconsul, Sergius Paulus.

  3. Saul (Paul) got angry that resulted the sorcerer became blind.

  4. Paul took the leadership from Barnabas.

  5. This demonstration brought faith in the Gospel.

2 PETER 2:1-8

  1. There are false prophets and teachers to lead the Church astray. Deceivers come in Christ's name (Matthew 24:5), claiming His authority and in His name. 2 Corinthians 11:13-14 talk about satan's ministers. God tests us certain times (Deuteronomy 13:1-3). How to distinquish false prophets (Revelationn 13:3), false ministers (Mark 13:22), and other gods (2 Corinthians 11:13-14)? (1) No light in them (Isaiah 8;20; 5:20). (2) Keep commandments (1 John 2:4 cf. Ezekiel 22:26; Hosea 4:6). Performing a miracle or foretelling a future event is not the criteria of a true prophet; should be a commandment keeper, not a breaker.

  2. There will be evil talk of true Christians.

  3. The false teachings can be for financial gain or to gain followers.

  4. Cake unturned: Hosea: 7:8-9 (See only one side)

    a.

    They are lovers of being religious only in appearance; turn away from them: 2 Timothy 3:5

    b.

    Idle talkers: 1 Timothy 1:5: Quote verses for anything and everything (Psalm 115:17-18); preach against truth: Titus 1:10.

    c.

    No comparison between their talks and acts: 1 Timothy 1:5f; Titus 1:11.

    d.

    Engage in speculative arguments: 2 Timothy 2:14

    e.

    Give heed to unimportant things: 1 Timothy 4:1

    f.

    Distract women: 2 Timothy 3:6
    HOW TO AVOID?

    a.

    Mouths must be stopped: Titus 1:11: study our faith.

    b.

    Reject them: Titus 3:10: Should not allow to turn the beautiful vineyard into a vegetable garden: 1 kings 21:1f

    c.

    Turn them away: Titus 3:10.

  5. God punishes false teachers like the angels who sinned (v.4. cf. Matthew 25:4; Jude 6), the ancient world of Noah's day (v.5; Genesis 6:5-8:22), and Sodom and Gomorrah (v.6; Genesis 19: 1-26).

  6. God delivers those faithful in trials (v.9): Noah and righteous Lot.

JAMES 4:7-17

  1. For full spiritual life, draw near and submit to God, resist the devil, cleanse our hands and purify our hearts (Psalms 24:3-7). When we submit our will to God, we can effectively resist the devil.

  2. Lament, mourn, and weep toward past unfaithfulness: Luke 18:13-14.

  3. Humble to be lifted up: Job 22:29; Luke 14:11; 18:14; 1 Peter 5:6.

  4. Do not belittle others (Matthew 7:1-5). If we speak evil of others, we violate God's law of love. Do not judge others.

  5. Do not ignore the brevity of life.

  6. Omission is as serious as commission: Luke 12:47-48.

COLOSSIANS 1:3-13

  1. Paul joins thanksgiving for their faith.

  2. The Apostle only heard of the Colossian Christians through Epaphras (v.7): Our relationship with God through faith leads to a relationship with other Christians through love.

  3. The hope of heaven helps us continue in faith and love through Christ.

  4. Hearing of God's grace and really experiencing that grace are different. The Colossians both heard and experienced.

  5. Epaphras, the leader and probably the founder of the Colossian Church (4:12-13).

  6. Paul prayed for them regularly.

  7. Knowledge of His will makes possible a life of holiness to increase.

  8. When we are strengthened by God, His glorious power enables us to bear trials patiently and even with joy.

  9. We share in the present and future inheritance God gives to His saints.

  10. Christ's death that delivered us and brings forgiveness make us to live joyfully under the authority of the Son.

ROMANS 1:18-32

  1. God's judgment is a fact. Refusal to honor God's authority and wrong and unjust actions result in God's wrath.

  2. Even Gentiles honor and thank the Almighty God.

  3. When we ignore God's power, we worship idols reducing God to the form of corruptible man or animals.

  4. This may lead to sexual immorality among men and women.

  5. Those who knowingly and wilfully resist God with unrighteousness will be judged accordingly.

JAMES 1:13-27

  1. One who overcomes temptation will be blessed: Job 5:17; Luke 6:22; Hebrews 10:36; James 5:11.

  2. Those who love Him receive the reward of eternal life: Revelation 2:10.

  3. God does not tempt, but He permits satan to tempt us: Job 1:9-12; Matthew 4:1.

  4. The origin, progress and outcome of sin: thoughts, desires, acceptance and action... then death: Genesis 3:6, 22-24.

  5. Every gift that God gives is for our good.

  6. Tests draw us closer to Him: 1 Corinthians 10:13.

  7. God is the Creator of the Sun, moon and stars as well as father of all our spiritual illumination and blessings.

  8. God made us new persons in Christ by the word of truth found in the Gospel.

  9. We are all His firstfruits. Many others will follow.

  10. We should not give way to anger (Ephesians 4:31), but follow what He says.

  11. We should abandon all our old habits, thoughts and actions.

  12. We have to do what God wants us to do. Be doers, not just hearers: Matthew 7:21.

  13. Because God's grace frees us from sin, we have to obey His laws.

  14. Mere religious observance is not enough. We shall restrain our tongue from speaking evil of others, show practical concern for those in need, and keep ourselves pure from sin.

1 CORINTHIANS 6:15-20

  1. We are all members of one body.

  2. We are so personally united with Christ as one body (Genesis 2:24) and cannot be united with a harlot.

  3. Our relationship with the Lord is far stronger and more intimate that enables us to think and act according to God's will: John 17:22-23.

  4. Do not give consideration to sexual sin as it leaves a permanent scar on our personality.

  5. Holy Spirit comes from God as the special gift of the Father (Acts 1:4-5) and dwells within us.

  6. God gave a price for us by the death of Christ on the cross so that we have to completely surrend Him: Romans 12:1-2.

EPHESIANS 5:3-21

  1. No fornication and uncleanness among us.

  2. No filthiness, foolish talking or coarse jesting: they do not honor God.

  3. Those who distant life in these ways do not inherit the kingdom of God.

  4. Do not be influenced by people who are so far from God and His will.

  5. Those who are blind to the things of God are now filled with God's truth and righteousness so that to walk as children of light showing the fruit of the spirit.

  6. No fellowship with evil persons in their evil deeds and in their wickedness.

  7. The truth of Christ shows the nature of evil deeds and transform the sinner.

  8. Live thoughtfully using the time well and doing God's will.

  9. Being drunk brings dissipation, but life in the spirit leads to self-control, joyful worship of God, and our mutual submission to each other.

MATTHEW 12: 31-41

  1. Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit is unpardonable sin. Jesus cast out demons through the work of the Holy Spirit. But the Pharisees rejected this claim.

  2. One cannot claim to be good when the fruit of his life is bad. We have to keep our attitudes, actions and words consistently good. A TREE IS KNOWN BY ITS FRUIT.

  3. Absurd accusations will be condemned on the day of judgment.

  4. Those who refuse to believe will not accept any kind of miracles.

  5. Jonah's deliverance from the fish was a sure sign that his mission was from God. Jesus' resurrection would verify His person and mission.

  6. The preaching of Jesus on the kingdom is greater than the preaching of Jonah on repentance or the wise judgments given by Solomon. So the Ninevites who repented at Jonah's preaching and the queen who travelled a distance to hear Solomon will condemn those who rejected Jesus.

MATTHEW 7:1-12

  1. Avoid critical, fault finding attitude toward others.

  2. God is the judge.

  3. Criticism will be responded with criticism and kindness with kindness.

  4. The person critical of other's small fault often covers his own large fault. Live the way you expect others to live before criticize them.

  5. Warn the evil persons (Ezekiel 3:19), but do not push if they do not repent because they may resent and attack..

  6. Ask, seek and knock in confidence through our prayers in Almighty God whose love surpasses the love of human father.

  7. God gives His Holy Spirit to those who ask (Luke 11:13) through whom we receive our blessings.

  8. Do for others all the things we want them to do for us ... a life of loving others which makes us perfect: Matthew 5:48.

LUKE 4:24-32

  1. Jesus was rejected at Nazareth as were Elijah and Elisha by the Israelites. Only the widow in Sidon (1 Kings 17:9; James 5:17) and Naaman, the Syrian (2 Kings 5:1-14) received blessings.

  2. The blessings of the Gospel to be given to the Gentiles.

  3. They got angry and Jesus left.

  4. Jesus' ministry in Capernaum was successful in contrast to that of Nazareth.

MATTHEW 24:36-44

  1. Only God knows the exact day of the end time.

  2. Judgment comes unexpectedly so that we should be always ready: Flood: Genesis 6:3-5.

  3. The Son of Man comes at an enexpected time: 1 Thessalonians 5:24; Revelation 3:3.

LUKE 11: 5-13; 27-36

  1. If we ask persistently, we receive.

  2. Persistent and urgent prayer: ask, seek, knock produce results.

  3. Do the work of God rather than feel good and talk about it: Matthew 7:21.

  4. Jesus' death and resurrection would be the only sign for them.

  5. As Jonah was delivered from death in the belly of the great fish, Jesus would be raised from death: Matthew 12:39-40.

  6. Queen of Sheba (1 Kings 10:1-10) came to listen to Solomon. Jesus is greater than Solomon or Jonah.

  7. Only those who receive His light see Him clearly. Those who refuse Him remain in darkness.

  8. Truth received brings the light helps to live as God requires. Truth rejected leaves nothing but darkness.

MATTHEW 12: 38-50

  1. Jesus did not oblige to their demand for more signs.

  2. Jonah's deliverance from the belly of the fish: Jesus' death and resurrection.

  3. When we reject Jesus who came to deliver us from evil, we become empty which would be filled with worse evil.

  4. Obedience to the will of the Father is more important than kinship with Jesus.

LUKE 12: 54-13:9

  1. People failed to understand the significance of His coming.

  2. To choose what is right is very important.

  3. Misfortune is not always the result of sinful living: Jesus' examples.

  4. God is gracious and patient, but there is a limit.

REMEMBRANCE OF THE DEPARTED CLERGY: [MATTHEW 24:42-51]

  1. "Pray for me" at the dismissal of Holy Qurbana.. Alive or not, the congregation has to pray for the clergy. Remember them: Hebrews 13:7.

  2. Priest is mediator: Messenger of God's army. Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd and the priests are His successors. He enters through the door. He calls by name and leads. He goes before his flocks. He lays down his life for the sheep. He is concerned for the safety of the flock. As a mediator, the priest communicates the will of God to his people (Deuteronomy 33:8-10)... here by means of Thummim and Urim.

  3. Priests offer sacrifices: Peace Offering, Sin Offering, Burnt Offering. Christ was offered on the cross. Holy Eucharist, a repetition.... Give "spiritual" food, the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.

  4. Priests endure sufferings: Day today life. Joseph spent years for a crime he didn't commit; Moses spent 40 years in the thick of the wilderness; Abraham spent many years for the promised land; Paul asked three times to remove the thorns; Job survived his ordeals.

  5. Use the talent wisely: The master has good expectations: "What did you do with the talent?" is the question. Visit orphans and widows and lead a virteous life (Matthew 25:37-40; James 1:26). Give spiritual food to the household of the Master. Maintain the stewardship. Do it carefully (Ecclesiastes 9:10) to make everything a success.

  6. Support: "Who rule well be counted worthy of double honor" (1 Timothy 5:17). Aaron and Hur supported Moses' arms (Exodus 17:10-12). Help and support (Hebrews 13:7, 17; Matthew 10:40-42; Ephesians 6:18-20). Teach and preach. Doing the will of God is the idealistic priesthood.

  7. The services of the clergy must be recognized with great concern. Church should have great concern for the select proper ones. Shall receive righteous men's reward: Matthew 10:40-42.

  8. Priests give birth (1 Corinthians 4:4-16) through baptism: Titus 3:6-7.

  9. They prepare the members to be ready for His second coming. No one knows what time Christ comes ... like a thief (1 Thessalonians 5:2-4; Revelation 3:3) Everyone should be faithful and wise; should not grow lax. Do it for His glorification: 1 Corinthians 10:31.

NUMBERS 20:23-29

  1. Aaron died on the top of Mount Hor (when he was famous)

  2. Aaron's garments stripped and put them on Eleazar, Aaron's son. Who will succeeded Aaron?.

  3. They mourned for him thirty days. We too.

  4. Gathered to his people (Deuteronomy 52:50): Not lost.

DEUTERONOMY 34:1-8

  1. God showed Moses the new land before he died at the age of 120.

  2. People mourned for him 30 days.

ISAIAH 65:13-20

  1. The disobedient shall be hungry, thirsty, ashamed, and cry for sorrow.

  2. The reward for God's servant is a new creation where the effects of sin will no longer be known.

ZECHARIAH 4:14

  1. Obedience: Two anointed ones: Joshua and Zerubabel (Haggai 1:12-14). They obeyed God's command (Ezra 5:2). They built, not only the building, but each member.

  2. Negligence: Dwell in panelled house while the temple is in ruins (Haggai 1:4-8). Fallen individuals and societies and families. If we rebuild, we will be blessed.

  3. Four Important things to do:

    a.

    Walk in His ways

    b.

    Keep His command: Leviticus 8:35; Ezekiel 44:16

    c.

    Judge His house: Deuteronomy 17:9, 12

    d.

    Have charge of His court: court of the Gentiles.

  4. Vision: Zechariah 4: No mission without vision. His mercy: Paul, Timothy, many others.

  5. Clothe with rich robes: Zechariah 3:4-5: Vestments

  6. Responsibility to keep the commandments and build the Church.

ACTS 20; 25-38

  1. Shepherding the Church of God is the main responsibility of clergy.

  2. Watch for distractors and destructers of the Church.

  3. Paul ministered three years in Ephesus with prayers and tears.

  4. With full dependence on God through His words, we can build ourselves and our Church.

  5. Paul and his associates labored and earned their livings.

  6. Support the weak and the sick.

  7. "It is more blessed to give than to receive"

  8. After prayer and embracing, they said farewell to Paul..

1 THESSALONIANS 4:13-15:11

  1. Those who died before Jesus' return will not be left out.

  2. Christians already dead will rise before those still live and will join Christ with us.

  3. No one knows the exact time of His coming ... like the coming of a thief in the night: Luke 21:34; 1 Thessalonians 5:4; Revelation 3:3; 16:15.

  4. Christians are children of light and day (godliness), not of darkness (sinfulness).

  5. Be ready as a good soldier for battle ... armed with faith, love, and the hope of salvation (Ephesians 6:14-17): spiritual warfare.

  6. No heathen god died for others, only Jesus.

  7. We have to comfort and edify each other.

MATTHEW 25: 13-29

  1. Here "a man" is Christ and "servants" are disciples.

  2. According to his ability, talents were given in each one's care

  3. The first two servants made responsible use of the money and were "good" and "faithful" (vv. 21, 23)

  4. The third one did nothing to increase his master's trust: wicked, lazy, fearful and self-interested: vv.25-26.

  5. The basis of reward is how faithfully we serve, not how much we have. He who had five talents and two talents received the same commendation.

  6. The reward is greater responsibilities and joy of fellowship with Christ.

  7. The third one criticized his master instead of loved and respected. He did not try to fulfill his lord's trust. He was very lazy.

  8. Refusal to use our spiritual benefits results in their loss.

LUKE 19: 11-27

  1. The noble man is Jesus, far country is heaven. He will return later to establish His kingdom on the earth.

  2. His servants are to be diligent in kingdom business until His return.

  3. Those who refused to accept His son would die: vv. 24, 27.

  4. Each one must answer for himself when called to account for the assignments.

  5. Those who are faithful receive commendation and reward.

  6. The wicked blamed his mater even without trying to gain interest.

  7. He who is diligent finds wider openings; he who fails to use the opportunity finds less chance for advancement.

REMEMBRANCE OF ALL FAITHFUL DEPARTED: [MATTHEW 25:31-46; LUKE 12:32-48; JOHN 5:19-29]

  1. Living and departed faithfuls make the Church. Pray for blessings (2 Corinthians 5:9); souls of the dead worship God (Revelations 7:15); if not hard-heartened, possible ( 1 Peter 3:19). Moses took the relics of Joseph, after 400 years to the promised land (Genesis 5:25; Exodus 13:19). The relics of the saints are powerful (2 Kings 13:20-21). Those who believe in Christ never die. They have eternal life. When Nehemiah and the supporters confessed their's and the departed one's sins and prayed (Nehemiah 9:2) and remembered their faithful departed, they were able to complete the works of the walls of Jerusalem.

  2. Pray for them and offer Holy Qurbana in remembrance: 1 Timothy 5:4.

  3. Accept the reality of the dead. Paul considers it as a gain.

  4. Be prepared while on earth for the consequence after death. To be accepted by Him, we have to be repented, and our faith in Jesus must be made visible in doing God's will. In self-forgetful generosity, we show our faith.

  5. Be ready to answer at the judgment when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory judging the righteous and the wicked as sheep and goats, blessing with His right hand and rejecting with His left hand and assuming his role as king.

  6. Good and bad resurrect. Good goes to life and bad goes to judgment. Good starts that blissful experience even when on earth; shall hear His words while alive. The unrighteous are not only those who do evil, but also those who failed to do good.

  7. Help others (Luke 12:32ff). Be ready to open the door for the Master whenever He comes.

  8. Dead body of the faithful will be live by Holy Spirit: Romans 8:11.

  9. Christ's followers may be few, but because they follow His leadership, God gives His kingdom to them.

  10. Give up material wealth if it hinders from following Christ (Luke 18:18-30) or administer for God's glory and the world's benefit.

  11. He whose treasure is in heaven will fix his thoughts and affections on heavenly things. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21; Luke 12:34). We buy things that last long: car, clothes, watch, etc. But these things really don't last long: Naaman brought clothes to Elisha (2 Kings 5:5); Achan stole some clothes (Joshua 7:21). Rust eats away things. Thieves make holes to clay houses and steal. Worms destroy possessions. Even better clothes get decayed eventually. They give only temporary happiness. Some happiness become unattractive eventually because of physical weakness or mental developments. Also physical things can be stolen like money, ot be destroyed like a house built on sand. Our good deeds in this world are treasures in heaven. A man divided his wealth to the poor. His brother told him that their father made wealth and added to that of his fore-fathers; now you are destroying his and theirs. He replied that they made wealth for this world, but he is for the eternal world. Our character is the treasure. Gold, silver, or jewel do not follow death. "There are no pockets in a shroud". Give regard and concern for spiritual matters over worldly greatness and wealth. Our hearts should not be immersed in worldly pleasures and our eyes should have better goals. Saints are penitent sinners ... like St. Augustine, Mary Magadaline became the first missionary; Saul the persecvutor became Paul, the great missionary. "God sees a saint in the sinner."

  12. We must always be ready for the return of Jesus just as servants must be ready for the unannounced return of their master or a homeowner must be ready for the unexpected coming of a thief.

  13. A human master would not serve his servant. But Christ promises to serve us if we are faithfully watching for His return.

  14. We have a special obligation to be faithful in our responsibilities.

  15. The deliberate offenders will be treated as unbelievers.

  16. God holds us responsible according to the degree of our knowledge of His will.

  17. Resurrection of the Body: When Christ returns, those who have died in faith will be raised to life again (1 Corinthians 15:28; John 5: 25-29). The same very body one possesses is the same one that is going to be raised. Christ possessed the same body when He was risen - the scars in His hands and feet. "... when He is revealed, we shall be like Him..." (1 John 3:2; Philippians 3:21). There will be changes as outlined (1 Corinthians 15): Mortal - Immortal; Corruptible - Incorruptible; Glory - Dishonor; Power - Weakness; Spiritual - Natural. cf. 2 Corinthians 5: 1-4. When we are raised from the dead, we will possess spiritual bodies like the angels. After Christ's resurrection, entered the rooms while doors were shut. Also example of Philip (Acts 8: 39-40).

  18. Jesus is the resurrection (John 11:26). He does not love, abides in death (1 John 3:14). Spiritual crucifixion needed (Galatians 5:24; Luke 9: 23). Self-crucifixion and spiritual resurrection (Romans 6: 3-14; John 3: 3-5): Holy baptism, confession and communion.

GENESIS 49:33-50:13

  1. Jacob's death and mourning for 70 days.

  2. Joseph, with the permission of Pharaoh, burried the body in Canaan.

EZEKIEL 37:1-14

  1. The vision of the valley of dry bones: Pictorial form of 36: 16-38.

  2. "Very dry" bones indicate that they were dead for a long time.

  3. "Can these bones live?": a big question.

  4. "You know": a safe answer: Deutronomy 32:39; 1 Samuel 2:6; John 5:21; Romans 4:17; 2 Corinthians 1:9.

  5. Bones will live. With God, all things are possible: Matthew 19:26.

  6. Without the breath or spirit, bodies were still only corpses. When the spirit comes, life there - new hope: Isaiah 32:14-19; Joel 2:28-29. This promise was fulfilled at Pentecost.

  7. When the nation gone and the survivors were carried captive, they regarded themselves as dead.

  8. By divine invitation, dry skeletons were restored to livier bodies. Israel was restored from the grave of foreign exile by the Lord.

ISAIAH 38:10-20

  1. Hezekiah's lament after recovered from his sickness.

  2. God causes everything.

2 MACABIANS 12: 38-45

  1. Prayers and sacrifices for the dead are efficacious.

  2. Collections were taken to meet the expenses.

JAMES 3:1-12

  1. Preaching has great influence over others: teachers and preachers (Luke 20:47) are held more accountable.

  2. Disciplined speech is very important not to sin: Matthew 12:7.

  3. Sinful words have far-reaching consequences like horses' mouth, ships and forest fire. So control the tongue.

  4. Sin and the devil are the sources of evil tongue.

  5. We have God's help to tame our tongue. Pray like David: Psalm 19:14.

  6. Speech springs from inward character. Seek the Holy Spirit to cleanse the heart: Isaiah 6:5-7.

  7. A double-talking tongue is as incongruous in a Christian as fresh-and-salt water spring is in nature.

  8. By God's grace, the wisdom from above (v.17) we can overcome evil speaking.

1 CORINTHIANS 15:20-28

  1. The Christian hope lies in the resurrection of Jesus Christ who make us alive and death will be destroyed.

  2. As firstfruits after harvest, resurrection for all who follow Him.

  3. Death came through Adam (Romans 5:12). Jesus Christ overcame death by His resurrection. Faith in Him makes us alive.

  4. At the second coming, He defeats all the enemy and will deliver the kingdom to God the Father.

  5. At His resurrection God will put all things under Christ, and then Christ will bring all to God the Father that God may be all in all. Thus creation may be reconciled to God and redemption will be complete.

1 THESSALONIANS 4:13

"I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope"

  1. The departed are sleeping: Lazarus was sleeping (John 11:11)... worked hard all the time....need rest...will arise after sleep. ...in the morning when the sun rises, the sun of righteousness, Jesus Christ.

  2. They gather (unite) together to their people: Genesis 49: 29-33. Jacob and Aaron. All dead are waiting to welcome. {A riddle: "The person who makes it sells it. The person who buys it doesn't use it. The person who uses it doesn't know it. What is it? (Coffin).}

  3. They join Christ: For St. Paul, it is a gain: Philippians 1:21. What we see now through the mirror, we see then face to face. The patient to the doctor: "No more shots; I see golden gate over there."

  4. Promotion with transfer to glory. Angels to receive. Sorrow here; joy there. Because we see the light...Jesus Christ.

  5. We praise Him for ever and ever: Psalms 115:18... the dead and alive. Death is certain; time of death is uncertain.

JOHN 11:1FF

  1. The death and resurrection of Lazarus .....

  2. Three kinds of death:

    a.

    Spiritual death ... separation of soul from God.

    b.

    Physical death ... soul from body. Here soul continues its life. Body parts go to the dust. Spirit continues its life in the spiritual world. Continuation depends upon our life here now. They wait for the second coming . Adam disobeyed; but didn't die physically and lived 930 years.

    c.

    Eternal death: No hope for salvation

  3. Good death: Death is gain: Philip. 1:21-23 ... to paradise. Bad death: to hell: Luke 16:23

  4. Still alive: Saul consulted with Samuel: 1 Samuel 28:15ff Jesus talked to Moses and Elijah: Matthew 17:3 Lazarus prayed: Luke 16: 27-28 Gospel to the dead: 1 Peter 4:5-6 "Grace period.".. pray for them.

  5. Four stages for a butterfly... cocoon

  6. Third day: Christ risen; Ninth day: Christ preached to the dead; Thirtieth day: Moses (Deuteronomy 34:8)...followers wept for 40 days; Fortieth day: Ascension. The departed soul with us for 40 days. We feel and see.

  7. Church Militant: When in the world Church Triumphant: When dead in faith Church Expectant: Waiting for judgment.

1 CORINTHIANS 2:9

  1. "EYE HAS NOT SEEN, NOR EAR HEARD....": Isaiah 64:4; 65:17: Higher experiences.

  2. Fellowship with Christ and saints: Philippians 1:23; 2 Corinthians 5:8; John 14:1-3; Revelation 7:9-17.

  3. Grace needed: Souls pray to God: Revelation 7:9-17 They please God: 2 Corianthians 5:9 Jesus preached the Gospel to the dead: 1 Peter 3:18-19; 4:1.

  4. They can see us, we cannot see them: Hebrews 12:1; Luke 9:31-32 (Moses and Elijah) Comedian George Burns used to visit his wife's tomb very often and talked to her departed wife asking: "How are you doing, Googy."

  5. Pray for them: Hebrews 13:7.

DANIEL 12:2

Many who die live again; some enjoy eternal life; some eternal disgrace.

  1. "A good life has a good death." We will be rewarded according to our deeds when He comes again: Matthew 16:26-27.

  2. Birth is beginning in the mother's womb. Death is beginning of the eternal life with God. Life: 70-80 years: Psalms 90:10 Just a breath: Psalm 39:5 Going back to dust: Psalm 90:3 ..........Just a sleep: John 11:11 Death will resurrect: John 11:25-26 (Jesus); 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (St. paul One who dies resurrects: 1 Corinthians 1%;42, 49. Resurrect at His second coming: 1 Corinthians 15:13-14 Hope not just life in this world: 1 Corinthians 15:19.

  3. After death, life with Christ: Our faith and hope: 1 Corinthians 15:20-21. They have victory over death: 15:55. Transformation at His second coming. Hidden with Christ: Colossians 3:3. Can think and see: Luke 16:19-31: Lazarus and the rich man. Can be converted: 1 Peter 3:9; 4:6: Jesus preached. We praise for ever: Psalms 115:17-18. Gentiles and idol worshippers are dead, even if they are alive. Lively state in dead: The repented thief: Luke 23:24. The dead continues as part of the Church: Ephesians 1:13; 4:4; Colossians 1:18, 24; 3:15.

LITURGICAL CALENDAR SYNOPSIS FOR SERMON & MEDITATION
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