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

SYNOPSIS FOR SERMONS AND MEDITATIONS
AUGUST
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.)

ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
MARK 6:7-13

1. Sending the twelve with responsibilities: with commandments, directions and advice.

2. Abide with rules and regulations: No bread, cash, etc. Leveticus 19:13-18: 11 No's. Just take the bare necessities: Luke 22:36. Joshua 23:7-14: Don't worship others; Malachi 4:1-6: If do not follow, punishments.

3. Depend on God and people: Matthew 10:11-13.

4. Sent two by two: Ecclesiastics 4:9-12 with power to cast away the devils: Two are better than one.

5. Teach the Gospel of peace: Leveticus 19:15: Do righteousness; Matthew 18:15-22: Reconcile with others.

6. Sandles: Ephesians 6:15.

7. Shake off the dust: Acts 13:51; 18:6. Those who reject would become like unbelieving Gentiles.

8. Not just peach, but have actions: Faith without works is dead: James 2:17. Cast the devil and heal the sick; anoint with oil: James 5:14: Unction of the sick, not just the last rite.

MATTHEW 18:15-22
 1. A one-to-one discussion for reconciliation. If all attempts fail, expel from the Church: Leveticus 19:17; Luke 17:3-4; Galatians 6:1; 2 Thessalonians 3:15; James 5:19-20; 1 Peter 3:1.
2. 18:16: Deuteronomy 17:6; 19:15; John 8:17; 2 Corinthians 13:1; 1 Timothy 5:19; Hebrews 10:28.
3. Heathens and tax collectors were not considered as God's people.
4. If a person doesn't reconcile, avoid him: Romans 16:17; 1 Corinthians 5:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14; 2 John 10.
5. 18:18: Absolution; Eternal consequences: Matthew 16:19; John 20:22-23; 1 Corinthians 5:4.
6. God confirms the reconciliation: 1 John 5:14; 3:22; 1 Corinthians 1:10.
7. 18:20: Ten males were required according to Jewish guidelines; here only 2 or 3 and Christ will be there: Matthew 6:14; Mark 11:25; Colossians 3:13.
8. Only 4 times in the Jewish religion; here without any limit: Luke 17:4; Matthew 6:14; Mark 11:25; Colossians 3:13.

MARK 9:33-50
 1. Disciples did not understand the ministry of Jesus; so argument about who would be the great among them.
2. 9:34: Because of shame, they kept silent.
3. Humble ourselves to be great..
4. 9:36-37: Little status for children in those days. Child represents needy people: Mark 10:13-16; Matthew 10:40; Luke 10:16; John 13:20.
5. vv.38-40: John's concern for position and authority. We must recognize all Christians: Numbers 11:27-29; Luke 9:49; 1 Corinthians 12:3; Matthew 12:30; Luke 11:23.
6. v. 41: The care and concern count, not the volume or size: Matthew 10:42.
7. v. 42: One who causes failure will have grave consequences: Mathew 18:6; Luke 17:1-2; 1 Corinthians 8:12.
8. vv. 43-48: Hardship now is better for eternity: Revelation 21:8.
9. When we go through our trials and tests, we will be purified.
10. We have to have the loving attitude of service; then no more argument (vv.33-37); Matthew 5:13 (Leveticus 2:13); Luke 14:34; Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 4:6; Romans 12:18; 14:19; 2 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:13; Hebrews 12:14.

11. Salt is a preservative, a flavor enhancer and a purifying agent.
12. Could lose our Christlike life and influence and we will no more be His followers.

JAMES 2:14-16
 1. Faith shall lead us to a holy life of righteousness and mercy: Matthew 7:21-23.
2. Faith without works is like words without deeds: vv. 15-17: Matthew 25:35; Luke 3:11, 1 John 3:17-18: We have to show loving deeds: Mark 7:6.
3. Obedient living is vital to keep the faith: Abraham proved his faith (John 15:12-15) by being ready to sacrifice his son, Isaac (genesis 22:1-3; 9-12); Rahab also rpoved her faith by risking her life protecting the spies came to Jericho: Joshua 2:1-16.
4. Faith should work in good works (v.24): No contradiction to Romans 3:28-31.
5. Living faith transforms life; dead faith doesn't.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:34-39
 1. St. Paul's instruction to women for proper worship procedure: 1 Timothy 2:11; 1 Peter 3:1; Genesis 3:16: Not a restriction for prayer or worship:11:15.
2. We have to have order and discipline in our worship services.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:34-39
 1. St. Paul's instruction to women for proper worship procedure: 1 Timothy 2:11; 1 Peter 3:1; Genesis 3:16: Not a restriction for prayer or worship:11:15.
2. We have to have order and discipline in our worship services.

LEVITES 19:13-18
 1. A call to holy living: Exodus 22:7-15; 21:27; Mark 10:39; Deuteronomy 24:15; Malachi 3:5; James 5:4.
2. v.14: Deuteronomy 27:18.
3. v.15: Deuteronomy 1:17; 10:17; 16:19; Exodus 23:3,6; Psalm 82:2.
4. v.16: Proverbs 11:13; 18:8; 20:19; Exodus 23:7; Deuteronomy 27:25; 1 Kings 21:7-19.
5. v.17: 1 John 2:9, 11; 3:15; Matthew 18:15; Luke 17:3; Ephesians 5:11.
6. v.18: Deuteronomy 32:35; 1 Samuel 24:12; Romans 12:19; Hebrews 10:30; Matthew 5:43.

- Quoted nine times in the New Testament: Matthew 5:43; 19:19; 22:39; Mark 12:31, 33; Luke 10:27; Romans 13:9; Galatians 5:14; James 5:8.

- It is the last part of Jesus' summary of the Law: Matthew 22:37-40.

JOSHUA 23:7-17
 1. Joshua's farewell.
2. Should have obedience, loyalty and love.

MALACHI 4:1-6
 1. The coming of the Lord: The wicked and the righteous will both receive rewards.
2. The sun's heat will bring healing to those who fear Him.
3. Obedience and reconciliation.
4. A reflection Moses and Elijah on the Mount of Transfiguration: Matthew 17:1-4.
5. John the Baptist fulfilled the promise of Elijah: Matthew 17: 10-13.

TRANSFIGURATION
LUKE 9:27-36; MATTHEW 17:1-8

1. Festival of the Tent: One of the three festivals (Passover, Pentecost (Festival of weeks) and the Festival of the Tent: For the redemption from Egyptian passover: after seven weeks, Festival of Weeks; after fruit gatherings, Festival of Tent for seven days (Deuteronomy 16:13-17). All children, slaves, wicked share this: Deuteronomy 16:14.

2. Jesus called three of His disciples: Peter, John and James.

3. They went to a high mountain apart.

4. Lord' revelation of His glory: God is the light of the world (1 John 1:5): The bright cloud, the shining of Jesus' face like the sun, and the whiteness of the garment (Matthew 17:2, 5) all demonstrate that Jesus is God. Jesus showed a part of this light of His glorification to His disciples: the "uncreated light."

5. Now we are light in Christ: Ephesians 5:8. Fruits of light: Goodness, righteousness and truth: Ephesians 5:10. Christ's whole life spread spiritual light (Matthew 4:14-15). Sacrificial life and death show His life of light. Christ's good natural deeds of light given to the world to glorify God (Matthew 15:16). The righteous shine like son (Matthew 13:43; like a palm tree (Psalm 92:12).

6. Moses appeared: Drawn from the water; married; deliverer; Law: represnts all those who are dead. Elijah represents all prophets; unmarried, ascended, raised widow's son, fed by ravens, contest with the priest's Baal. They represent the dead and the living (Romans 14:9), married, unmarried, communion of the saints (Hebrews 12:1). Their disappearance means Old Testament time is over and New Testament time began.

7. The Holy Trinity is manifested: Christ is transfigured (Matthew 17:2); Father spoke from heaven testifying Jesus' divine sonship (Matthew 17:5); and the Holy Spirit is present in the form of a dazzling light surrounding Christ's person, overshadowing the whole mountain (Matthew 17:5).

8. Be careful not to be ashammed at His glorification: Mark 8:38; 1 John 2:28; Will be happy at the reward: Matthew 16:27-17:13. Christ is capable: Romans 11:36

9. Peter wanted to stay there for ever: Harmonious. Let us have that experience so that it is good to be with Him all the time.

10. Place in our hearts for Him: Let Him to enter: Psalm 24:7. God shall be glorified through us: Isaiah 61:3.

11. Sign of the participation of divine lightness: 2 Peter

I JOHN 2:23-3:1
 1. If we deny Jesus Christ, looses our fellowship with the Father: John 14:6; 15:23; 5:23; 1 John 4:15; 5:1; 2 John 9.
2. The fellowship with the Father and the Son is the essence of eternal life:2 John 6-7, 9; John 14:23; 1 John 1:3.
3. The false teachers distract us. We shall be protected by the Scriptures as well as by the anointing of the Holy Spirit: John 14:16; 16:13; 1 John 2:20.
ROMANS 11:25-36
1. The blindness of Israel lead to the salvation of the Gentiles and finally to the salvation of Israel: Psalm 14:7; Isaiah 59:20-21.
2. Israel's rejection led to the salvation of the Gentiles: 9:1013.
3. Those who don't believe God are blind.
4. God's judgments are unsearchable: Isaiah 40:13; Jeremiah 23:18; 1 Corinthians 2:16; Job 36:22; 41:11.
5. Christ has authority over all things: John 1:3; Ephesians 3:9; Colossians 1:16.

DEUTERONOMY 16:13-17; LEVET. 23:33-34
1. Feast of Tabernacles: Everyone participates in this harvest completion thanksgiving festival, five days after the Day of Atonement: Leveticus 23:34.
2. Regular worship with God is essential.

PSALM 24
1. This Psalm may have originally sung when the ark was brought to Jerusalem: 1 Chronicles 16:1-6.
2. God is the creator and the owner of the whole world (Psalm 136:6). We the inhabitants enjoy earth's wealth and fertility with His permission.
3. Only the righteous have fellowship with God: Psalm 15:1.
4. Unrighteousness (Isaiah 1:5) to be cleansed. Motives, the inner condition of our hearts, are to be reckoned: James 4:8; Job 17:9, Psalm 26:6; 51:10; 73:1; Matthew 5:8. Exclusive dedication and intensity needed.
5. We have to open our hearts to receive the Almighty God.
6. God defeats our outward and inward enemies and we can live victory: Exodus 15:3; Isaiah 63:1-9.
7. God is sovereign over all, including angels: Matthew 26:53.

ISAIAH 61:1-3
1. Righteousness comes from Messiah upon whom is the Spirit of the Lord God: Isaiah 11:2; Matthew 3:17; Luke 4:18-19; John 1:32; 3:34; Psalm 45:7; Matthew 11:5; Luke 7:22; Psalm 147:3; Isaiah 42:7; Acts 10:43.
2. Acceptable year (61:2): the 5oth jubilee year: Leveticus 25:10, 13.
3. Vengeance:Isaiah 34:8;Malachi 4:1,3;2 Thess. 1:7.
4. Comfort:Isaiah 57:18;Jeremiah 31:13;Matthew 5:4.
5. Give beauty for ashes: Psalm 30:11.

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER TRANSFIGURATION
MATTHEW 21:28-32

1. The state and affairs of the Kingdom of God in several parables. It grows contineously from small start. Those who do, not just preach, inherit it. Their condition: Not treachery and cheating, but truthful: Deuteronomy 25:13-16; just: Ezekiel 7:1-4; fearless: Psalm 27; and satisfaction: Philippians 4:11. Compare Pharisee and the Publican: Luke 18:9-14.

2. Vineyard: Matthew 20:1, 21:33; 13:44-52; Mark 4:21-34; Tax collectors: Luke 7:29; 37-50; John the Baptist: Luke 3:1-12; 7:29.

3. First son said, No", but did. Repented and went. He represents the tax collectors and harlots who repented when they heard John the Baptist. They said "No" first by their sins; but when realized they repented and came back saying "yes." Nathan to David: 2 Samuel 12:1-6; prodigal son repented, the older son didn't. Mary Magdaline did. St. Paul went all the way to the 3rd heaven. Peter experienced on Mount Tabor with others. Do His will: John 14:31; Matthew 7:21.. Heaven is for the repenters.

4. The second son said "yes", but didn't. Excuses; he represents the Jewish leaders who claimed to be religious, but rejected God's kingdom. Some promise to do, but don't.; some want all rights, but no rites; some give all dues, but no doing. Fruits show what kind of a tree it is. Actions are more important than words. Making decisions and breaking. cf. Matthew 7:21 (Do His will to enter into Heaven).

MATTHEW 4:21-34
1. When a lamp is on a lampstand, it sheds light over and makes things clear. So also the Gospel message brings God's truth to light: Matthew 5:15; Luke 8:16; 11:33.
2. 4:22: Nothing hidden: Ecclesiastes 12:14; Matthew 10:26-27; Luke 12:3; 1 Corinthians 4:5.
3. 4:23: Only those who willingly receive can understand and obey: Matthew 11:15; 13:9. 43; Mark 4:9; Luke 8:8; 14:35; Revelation 3:6, 13, 22; 13:9.
4. 4:24: The more we hear, the more light we get: Matthew 7:2; Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6.
5. 4:25: Those who refuse shall lose what they always have: Matthew 13:12; 25:29; Luke 8:18; 19:26.
6. vv. 26-29: Like the farmer doesn't know how his crop grows, we do not know how the transforming power of the kingdom of God; only God knows: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43; Luke 8:1; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 2 Peter 3:18; John 12:24; Mark 13:36, 39; Revelation 14:15.
7. vv. 30-32: Though appears small, the kingdom of God spreads all over the world: Matthew 13:31-32; Luke 13:18-19; Acts 2:41; 4:4; 5:14; 19:20.
8. vv. 33-34: Parables are stories from every day life to teach spiritual truths: Matthew 13:34-35; John 16:12; Luke 24:27, 45.

MATTHEW 13:44-52
1. vv. 44-46: These two parables teach us that we should take any sacrifice to share the richness in the Kingdom of God: Philippians 3:7-8; Isaiah 55:1; Revelation 3:18; Proverbs 2:4; 3:14-15; 8:10, 19.
2. vv. 47-50: Parable of the dragnet. cf the rares: vv. 24-30; 36-43; Matthew 22:9-10; 25:32. The separation of the wicked and the righteous during the last judgment.
3. We have to share the truth with others.

1 JAMES 4:7-5:6
1. We have to draw near and submit to God, resist the devil, cleanse our hands and purify our hearts for full spiritual life.
2. v. 7: To resist the devil, we have to submit our will to God: Ephesians 4:27; 6:11; 1 Peter 5:8.
3. v. 8: If we truly go to Him, God accepts us wholeheartedly. Those who divide their hearts' love between God and the world are double minded: 2 Chronicles 15:2; Zechariah 1:3; Job 17:9; Psalm 24:3-4; Isaiah 1:16; Jeremiah 4:14; Malachi 3:7; 1 Timothy 2:8; Hebrews 7:19; James 3:17; 1 Peter 1:22; 1 John 3:3.
4. v. 9: We have to lament, mourn and weep toward past unfaithfulness: Matthew 5:4; Luke 18:13-14.
5. v. 10: Humble: Job 22:29; Luke 14:11; 18:14; 1 Peter 5:6.
6. v. 11: Do not criticize others: Matthew 7:1-5; 2 Corinthians 12:20; Ephesians 4:31; James 5:9; 1 Peter 2:1-3; Romans 14:4.
7. v. 12: God is the only Law giver: Matthew 10:28; Romans 14:4.
8. vv. 13-14: Do not ignore the brevity of human life: Job 7:7; Psalm 102:3; 1 Peter 1:24.
9. v. 15: Acts 18:21; 1 Corinthians 4:19.

10. v. 16: 1 Corinthians 5:6
11. v. 17: Sin of omission: Luke 12:47-48; John 9:41; 2 Peter 2:21.
12. 5:1: Proverbs 11:28; Luke 6:24; 1 Timothy 6:9: Ungodly rich.
13. 5:2: Jeremiah 17:11; Matthew 6:19; Job 13:28 (Expensive clothing: Acts 20:33): All earthly wealth have only temporary nature. 14. 5:3: Selfish hoarding makes the corrosion: Romans 2:5.
16. 5:4: Leveticus 19:13; Job 24:10; Jeremiah 22:13; Malachi 3:5; Exodus 2:23; Deuteronomy 24:15; Job 31:38.

Thus hoarding far more wealth than needed, refusing to pay just wages, living in self-indulgent luxury amid other's poverty, and taking the lives of the innocent and helpless (vv.1-6) are unfair dealings and God doesn't approve yhem. PHILIPPIANS 4:8-20
1. v.8: We have to meditate - think deeply and fill our minds continually with honest, honorable, right, fair, acceptable, attractive, inspiring, gracious, and commendable virtues and characteristics: Ephesians 4:25; 2 Corinthians 8:21; Deuteronomy 16:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:22; James 3:17; 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.
2. V. 9: Romans 15:33; Hebrews 13:20: Paul's teaching, his Gospel message, and his own life should be model to all of us. Christ should be above all; Christ-like humility (2:5-7), divine goal (3:14): These should be our quest in our life.
3. 4:10: The Philippian Church that Paul first established on his second missionary journey (Acts 16:6-15) continued to support him: 2 Corinthians 11:9; Philippians 2:30.
4. v. 13: We have to depend on Christ, not on our own strength: John15:5.
5. v.14: The gift was appreciated: Philippians 1:7.
6. v. 15: There is joy for both the one who helps and the one being helped: 2 Corinthians 11:8-9.
7. v. 16: God uses people to meet the needs of His servants.
8. v. 17: Those who support will be blessed: Titus 3:14.
9. v. 18: A gift given and accepted in love is a sacrifice pleasing to God: Philippians 2:25; Hebrews 13:16; Romans 12:1; 2 Corinthians 9:12.
10. v. 19: Through Christ, God meets all the needs of His generous people: Psalm 23:1; 2 Corinthians 9:8.
11. v. 20: We have to be thankful to God: Romans 10:27.

DEUTERONOMY 25:13-26
1. Social responsibility: v. 13: cf. Leveticus 19: 35-37; Proverbs 11:1; 20:23; Ezekiel 45:10; Micha 6:11.
2. V.15: cf. Exodus 20:12.
3. v. 10: Proverbs 11:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:6

PSALM 27
1. The faith of a person who has been tested is affirmed. He has a strong desire and gains hope and assurance.

2. v. 1: David's experience of God proves that he has nothing to fear: Psalm 18:25; 62:7; 84:11; 118:14; Isaiah 12: 2; 60:19-20; 118:14; Micha 7:8; Exodus 15:2.

3. v. 2: Destruction caused especially by slander: Psalm 14:4.

4. v. 3: Cf. Psalm 3:6.

5. v. 4: God's will first in life: Psalm 26:28; 65:4; Luke 2:37; Philippians 3:13-14.
6. v. 5: Psalm 31:20; 91:1; 40:2: Through our nearness to God, we receive safety and security: Psalm 23:6.
7. v.6: Psalm 3:3
8. v. 8: We have to come to His presence: The heart is the seat of affections, thoughts and will.
9. v. 9: The loss of God's intimate fellowship is unbearable: Psalm 69:17; 143:7. 10. v. 10: Parents love and care are lesser than that of God's : Isaiah 49:15. 11. V.11: Psalm 25:4; 86:11; 119:33.
12. v. 12: Deuteronomy 19:18; Psalm 35:11; Matthew 26:60; Mark 14:56; John 19:33.
13. v. 13: Job: 28:13; Psalm 52:5; 116:9; 142:5; Isaiah 38:11; Jeremiah 11:19; Ezekiel 26:20.
14. v. 14: Psalm 25:3; 37:34; 40:1; 62:5; 130:5; Proverbs 20:22; Isaiah 25:9; Habakuk 2:3.

EZEKIEL 7:1-4

1. A prophetic prophecy of Judah's end.
2. V. 2: Ezekiel 5:6; 11:13; Amos *;2, 10; Matthew 24:6, 13-14.
3. V.3: Romans 2:6.
4. v. 4: Ezekiel 5:11; 12:20 (Eye is the first organ to express pity).

ASSUMPTION: AUGUST 15TH:

1. A. India's Independence: August 15th: Pray :1 Timothy 2:21A. India's Independence: August 15th: Pray :1 Timothy 2:21
B.Remembrance of His Holiness Patriarch Abdel M'shiho who transferred Catholicate to Malankara in 1912.
C. Assumption of St. Mary, Mother of our Lord and Savior: End of 15 days fasting. Mother Mary died and burried (Sepeclcher church in the valley of Kedron in Jerusalem on the way to Mount Olive), but the body was taken to heaven in her bodily attire like Enoch and Elijah, with the Apostles and angels participating. This is not a dogma, but a tradition; festival from the 5th century. All Catholic Churches uphold this tradition.

2. Blessed in all generations (Luke 1:48): Two out of seven times of daily prayers are specially ascribed to her; one (Wednesday) out of seven days of prayers are specified to remember her (the Sunday prayers from the Exaltation of the Cross to Easter are also the same); one out of three altars in our churches are in her name; and hundreds of churches all over the world in her name... she herself said that all generations will call her "blessed" (1:48) cf. Revelation 12:1-6; Psalm 45: 9-11: "See the royal daughter stand....".

3. The Tabernacle: (Hebrews 9:3-12; 7:14-53): God's presence here like that of Mother Mary; Fire in the Bush (Exodus 3:2); Ark of the Covenant (Exodus 16:34; 25:10-27); the Gate that was Shut (Ezekiel 44:2). She is model to all faithful; complete commitment to the will of God; Jesus in her belly---shall be in our heart; given Jesus to the world--- we also have to; her faith, prayer life and worship (Luke 2:41); her meditation ...kept all things in her heart (Luke 2:31); helping nature (John 2:3).

4. Parents: Father was Yuyakim of Judah tribe, of David's family in Nazareth; Mother, Anna of the same family.

5. Prophecy fulfilled: "Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel" (Isaiah 7:14)
a. She was ever virgin: Ezekiel 44:2; Song of Songs 4:12
b. The highly favored one (full of grace): Luke 1:28
c.Jesus was "born of a woman": Galatians 4:4
d. She was the "woman clothed with the sun": Revelation 12:1
e. Jesus was born of Mary: Matthew 1:16
f. Jesus is the Son of God: John 10:36
g. The Holy Spirit came upon her: Luke 1:35
h. The Mother of my Lord (Elizabeth): Luke 1:43

6. The Maid servant of the Lord: Luke 1:38: Her humility: Luke 1:46-55 (The Magnificat): She had a heart of complete submission to God ... Followed God's will all the way to the cross.

7. With the Baby (Matthew 2:11): Took the Baby to Egypt (Matthew 2:13); when He was lost, searched until found in the temple (Luke 2:41-46) ... should be with Him and members of the Church, not be outsiders; she served (John 2:12; Matthew 13:55-56); at the foot of the cross; with the disciples at Ascension (Acts 1:14).

8. Her full conviction in Him: "Whatever he says to you, do it" (John 2:5). She kept everything with her (Luke 2:19, 51. A helping hand at Cana. Like Elisha to Elijah, let us pray to double the spirit in us (2 Kings 2:91)

9. Our Mother: "Behold, your Mother" (John 19:27: John took care of her; she is everyone's mother; she is everybody's Mediator; she is our mother ... whoever does His will are reckoned as His mother, brother, sister.

10. Role foretold: Genesis 28:12-15: Ladder: Mary; the Lord stood over; angels and so on; angels at the birth of Jesus too; Genesis 22:13: Ram caught in a thicket by its horns; Exodus 3:2: Flame of Fire: The Lord: Hebrews 12:29; Burning Fire: Mother; Exodus 24:16-17: Mount Sinai: St. Mary; Judges 6:37: Fleece of wool: St. Mary; Dew: Jesus ; Numbers 20:7-8:The Rock that yielded water; Isaiah 6:1: Throne: St. Mary; Jeremiah 36:2-10: Scroll of Book; Matthew 17:27: Fish; Luke 13:21: Woman in leaven; Psalm 138:8: Ark.

11. Submitted all problems before God (1 Peter 5:27): No murmering when Joseph misunderstood her or during when ran away to Egypt or at the crucifixion of her son.

12. Ascended into heaven like Enok (Genesis 5:21-24) and Elijah (2 Kings 2:11).

JOHN 2:1-11
(Also on Pethratho Sunday)
1. The first of the seven miracles revealing Christ's glory (the last was raising Lazarus:11:25)
2. v.1: Hebrews 13:4; Joshua 19:28; John 19:25
3. vv.3-5: Embarassing situation; bring the problem to Jesus; Mary's concern, intervention and profound confidence in Jesus.
4. v.4: Woman, just like from the cross (19:26): refer John 7:6, 8, 30; 8:20; 2 Samuel 16:10.
5. vv.6-8: Waterpots for purification - washing of hands. Matthew 15:2; Mark 7:3; Luke 11:39; John 3:25.
6. vv. 9-10: John 4:46; the joyful good wine of the Gospel replaced the water of Jewish legalism.
7. Jesus' divine power manifested: John 4:54; (1:14).


MATTHEW 12:46-50
1. Obedience to the will of His Father is more important than blood relation.
2. v.46: Mark 3:31-35;Mark 6:3; Luke 8:19-21; Matthew 13:55; John 13:55; 2:12; 7:3, 5; Acts 1:14; 1 Corinthians 9:5; Galatians 1:19.
3. v. 47: Matthew 13:55-56; John 2:12; Acts 1:14
4. vv. 49-50: John 20:17; Romans 8:29; John 15:14; Galatians 5:6; 6:15; Colossians 3:11; Hebrews 2:11.

JOHN 19:25-27
1. v. 25: Mother's sister: Probably Salome, wife of Zebudee and mother of James and John (Matthew 27:56; Mark 15:40); Luke 2:35; 23:49; 24:18.
2. v. 26: Jesus' concern for His mother: John 13:23; 20:2; 21:27; 20:24; 2:4.
3. v.27: Luke 18:28; John 1:11; 16:32; Acts 21:6.

LUKE 2:22-35; 42-52; 11:27-32
 1. A new mother is unclean for 7 days (Leveticus 12:1-2). After this the baby had to be taken to the temple for circumcision. She is unclean for another 53 days and thereafter to offer a sacrifice for purification. Mary and Joseph offered turtle doves or young pigeons (they were too poor to offer a lamb: Leveticus 12:6-8). Then they presented Jesus to the Lord for a life of sacrifice. v.23: Exodus 13:2, 12, 15; 22:29; Leveticus 27:26; Numbers 3:13; 8:17; Deuteronomy 18:4; Nehemiah 10:36.
2. v.25: Simeon was righteous, dedicated to God, looking for the Messiah and Holy Spirit was with him: A good model for every one: Isaiah 40:1; Mark 15:43; Luke 2:38; 23:51.
3. v. 26: Psalm 89:48 (John 8:51; Hebrews 11:5). v. 27: Matthew 4:1
4. vv.29-32: "Nune Dimittis" (Latin): God's salvation through Jesus. Simeon's great purpose for living had been fulfilled: Genesis 46:30 (Philippians 1:23)
v. 30: Psalm 119:166, 174 (Isaiah 52:10; Luke 3:6)
v.32: Isaiah 9:2; 42:6; 49:6; 60:1-3; Matthew 4:16; Acts 10:45; 13:47; 28:28 (Romans 9:24; Galatians 3:14)
5. vv.34-35: Simon blessed the parents and revealed three prophecies:

1. Jesus will be the cause for the fall and rising of many (even the followers will be discouraged by the crucifixion before they rose to victory): Isaiah 8:14; Hosea 14:9; Matthew 21:44 (Romans 9:32); 1 Corinthians 1:23 (2 Corinthians 2:16; 1 Peter 2:7-8).
2. Jesus was a sign from God, but would be rejected: Matthew 28:12,15; Acts 4:2; 17:32; 28:22 (1 Peter 2:12; 4:14).
3. Mary would be pierced with grief when Jesus suffered and died: Psalm 42:10; John 19:25.
6. By the people's acceptance or rejection, their spiritual attitudes would be revealed.

7. 2:42: Passover (unleavened bread), Pentecost, and Tabernacles - the three feasts Jewish males were required to attend (Exodus 23:14-17): Passover is in memory of the night the death angel passed over the homes of the Hebrews when God sent the 10th plague on Egypt. killing the first born of the Egyptians: Exodus 12:1-13. 12 Years old: The age to accept in the religious community.
8. vv.43-45: Entire family (big crowd) travelled together.
9. vv.46: Searched for three days
10. v. 47: Human relationship and divine guidance: Matthew 7:28; 13:54; 22:33; Mark 1:22; 6:2; 11:18; Luke 4:32; John 7:15.
11. vv.48-49: The priority of Jesus' relationship with the Heavenly Father: John 9:4 (Mark 1:22; Luke 4:22, 32; John 4:34; 5:17, 36).
12. v.50: Mark 9:32; Luke 9:45; 18:34; John 7:15, 46.
13. v.51: Displayed proper obedience to His parents: Daniel 7:28.
14. v. 52: Isaiah 11:2-3; Colossians 2:2-3; 1 Samuel 2:26; Proverbs 3:1-4.
15. 11:27: Luke 1:28, 48.
v. 28: Psalm 1:1-2; 112:1; 119:1-2; Isaiah 48:17-18; Matthew 7:21; Luke 8:21; James 1:25.
v. 29: Matthew 12:38-42; 1 Corinthians 1:22
v. 30: John 1:17; 2:10; 3:3-10; Luke 24:46; Acts 10:40; 1 Corinthians 15:4.
vv.31-32: 1 Kings 10:1-10; 2 Chronicles 9:1-8 (Isaiah 9:6; Romans 9:5); John 3:5
MARK 3:31-35
1. United with God is a closer bond than with human families.
2. v. 31: Matthew 12:46-50; Luke 8:19-21.
3. v. 35: Ephesians 6:6; Hebrews 10:36; 1 Peter 4:2 (1 John 2:17)

ACTS 1:12-14; 7:44-53
1. v. 12: Luke 24:52 (1.2 km)
2. v. 13: John Mark's home: Mark 14:15; Luke 22:12; Acts 9:37: 39; 20:8; Matthew 10:2-4; Luke 6:15; Jude 1
3. v.14: Over 100 believers in this "house church" prayed earnestly in unity: 2:1, 46; 7:57.
4. 7:44: Stephen's defense: Israel has no excuse to plead ignorance to obey God: Exodus 25:40 (Hebrews 8:5).
5. v. 45: Deuteronomy 32:49; Joshua 3:14; 18:1; 23:9; Nehemiah 9:24; Psalm 44:2; 2 Samuel 6:2-15.
6. v. 46: David's covenant: 2 Samuel 7:1-13; 1 Kings 8:17; 1 Chronicles 22:7; Psalm 132:4-5.
7. v. 47: 1 Kings 6:1-38; 8:20-21; 2 Chronicles 3:1-17
8. v. 48: 1 King 8:27; 2 Chronicles 2:6; Acts 17:24
9. v. 49: Isaiah 60:1; 2 Matthew 5:34
10. v. 50: Psalm 102:25 (In the New Testament, believers are God's temple).
11. v. 51: Exodus 32:9; Isaiah 6:10; Leveticus 26:41.
12. v. 52: 2 Chronicles 36:16; Matthew 21:35; 23:35; 1 Thessalonians 2:15; Acts 3:14; 22:14; 1 John 2:1
13. Though received the Law, they refused it: Exodus 20:1; Deuteronomy 33:2; Acts 7:38; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 2:2.

HEBREWS 9:3-12; 2:14-18; GALATIANS 4:1-7
9:3: The sanctuary: Exodus 25:21-22; 26:31-35; 40:3
v.4: Leveticus 16:12; Exodus 25:10; 16:33; Numbers 17:1- 10; Exodus 25:16; 34:29; Deuteronomy 10:2-5
v.5: Exodus 25:17, 20; Leveticus 16:2; 1 Kings 8:7
v.6: Numbers 18:2-6; 28:3
v.7: Exodus 30:10; Leveticus 16:34; Hebrews 5:3; 6:6; 10:3, 22, 26.
v.8: The way to God is through Christ: John 14:6; Hebrews 10:20
v.9: The sacrifics before Christ could not make the worshipper perfect ... could never cleanse one's conscience: Galatians 3:21; Hebrews 7:19.
v. 10: New time began with Christ: Leveticus 11:2; Coloss. 2:16; Numbers 19:7; Ephesians 2:15; Hebrews 10:1
v.11: The tabernacle of Christ's ministry is heaven, the dwelling place of God: Eph. 1:3-11; Hebrews 10:1
v.12: Aaron, on the Day of Atonement, offered a calf for Himself and a goat for the sins of the people (Leveticus 16:6-9). Christ, with His own blood, offered sacrifice once for all that brings full cleansing from for all eternity: Hebrews 10:4; Isaiah 53:12; Ephesians 1:7; Zechariah 3:9; Daniel 9:24.
2:14: The Son by being human delivers God's people from the fear and power of both physical and spiritual death: Romans 5:12-21; John 1:14; Colosians 2:15; 1 Corinthians 15:54-57; 2 Timothy 1:10.
v.15: Psalm 68:18; Isaiah 42:7; 45:13; 49:9; 61:1; Luke 1:74
v.17: Christ saves people from the guilt of sin: Philippians 2:7; Hebrews 2:14; 4:15; 5:1-10
v.18: Saves from the power of temptation: Hebrews 4:15- 16; Romans 3:25-26; 1 John 2:2; 4:9-10

GALATIANS 4:1-7
We are children of God experiencing the presence of the Holy Spirit.
vv.1-2: Like a child under the supervision, Jews and the Gentile Christians under bondage before Christ came: Romans 1:19-21.
v.3: By keeping the Law and doing goods, we can save ourselves: Galatians 4:9; Colossians 2:8, 20; Hebrews 5:12; 9:10.
vv.4-5: From Christ's time onwards, all followers enjoy the full privilege of sonship. As God's son, born of a woman under the Law, Christ made us God's children: Genesis 3:15; 49:10; Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:25; 5:17; 20:29; Luke 2:21, 27; John 1:12; Romans 1:3; 8:3; Galatians 3:13; Philippians 2:7.
v.6: Holy Spirit makes our sonship a living reality so that we have the closest fellowship with the Father: Acts 16:7; Romans 5:5; 8:9, 15, 16; 2 Corinthians 3:17.
v.7: By the gracious work of God through Christ, we are no more slaves but His children with the full privilege of heirs: Romans 8:16-17.

EXODUS 3:1-6; 19:16-23
Moses' call in a vision:
v.1: Exodus 4:18; 2:16; 18:5; 1 Kings 19:8; Exodus 17:6
vv.2-3: Judges 6:12; Deuteronomy 33:16; Mark 12:26; Luke 20:37; Acts 7:30; Acts 7:31.
v.4: "Moses, Moses": Twice for special attention: "Abraham, Abraham" (Genesis 22:11); "Samuel, Samuel" (1 Samuel 3:10); "Saul, Saul" (Acts 9:4). Also see Exodus 4:5; Deuteronomy 33:16.
v.5:Sacred because of God's presence: Joshua 5:15; Acts 7:33
v.6: God's presence made Moses fearful: Isaiah 6:5; Genesis 28:13; Exodus 3:16; 4:5; Matthew 22:32; Mark 12:26-27; Luke 20:37-38; Acts 7:32; 1 Kings 19:13.
19:16: Miracle followed when the creator intersected creation (Luke 2:8-15): Hebrews 12:18-19, 21.
vv.17-18: Deuteronomy 4:10-11; Judges 5:5; Psalm 104:32; 144:5; Exodus 3:2; 24:17; Deuteronomy 5:4; 2 Chronicles 7:1-3; Hebrews 12:18; Genesis 15:17; 19:28; Revelation 15:8; Psalm 68:8, ! Kings 19:12; Jeremiah 4:24; Hebrews 12:26.
v. 19: Hebrews 12:21; Nehemiah 9:13; Psalm 81:7
v. 20: Moses followed God's instructions and went up.
v.21: God uses Moses to warn the people: 1 Samuel 6:19.
v.22: Exodus 19:24; 24:25; Leveticus 10:3; 21:6-8; 2 Samuel 6:7-8.
v.23: Israel has to be holy to share with God: Exodus 19:12.

ISAIAH 45:11-19
God makes the decisions of our future:
v.11: Isaiah 8:19; 29:23; 60:21; 64:8; Jeremiah 31:9
v.12: Isaiah 42:5; Jeremiah 27:5; Genesis 1:26; 2:1; Nehemiah 9:6.
v.13: Isaiah 41:2; 44:28; 2 Chronicles 36:22; Romans 3:24.
v.14: "There is no other" - 3 times: 14, 18, 21: Emphasizes God's unique character: Psalm 60:31; 72:10-11; 149:8; Isaiah 14:1; 45:5; 49:23; 60:9-10, 14, 16; Jeremiah 16:19; Zechariah 8:20-23; 1 Corinthians 14:25.
V.15: Psalm 44:24; Isaiah 57:17
vv.16-17: Isaiah 44:11; 26:4; 51:6; 29:22; Romans 11:26.
v.18: Isaiah 42:5; Genesis 1:26; Psalm 115:16; Acts 17:26.
v.19: Deuteronomy 30:11; Psalm 19:8; Isaiah 45:23; 63:1.

EZEKIEL 44:1-3
The sanctity of the temple
v.1: Ezekiel 43:1: Faces East
v.2: Ezekiel 43:2-4
v.3: Genesis 31:54; Exodus 24:9-11; 1 Corinthians 10:18; Ezekiel 46:2, 8; Deuteronomy 12:18 (Peace Offering).

FIRST SUNDAY AFTER ASSUMPTION
LUKE 6:39-45

1. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) to the newly appointed twelve, the other disciples, and the other multitude. 2. Lots of "blind" try to become leaders and lead the followers in jeopardy. 3. We have to see what is going on around (v.39): We are the light of the world and we should lead who are in the darkness (Matthew 15:14; 23:16; Romans 2:19). We have to lead the Christian way (James 1:27). Blind cannot lead the way. If we are blind, we cannot see even in the light. Sin makes us blind. If we have sin, we cannot walk in holiness and goodness. Confessions and communions make us the way to walk in the way of God. 4. We should be trained to be like our Master (v.40); not to be above Him (Matthew 10:24). We may have to sacrifice several things and even face persecutions (John 13:16; 15:20). Parents have a great responsibility to train their children in the right way. 5. We must pay close attention to personal righteousness (vv. 41-42): We usually overlook our own great faults (self-justification) and magnify the faults of others - gossip. We try to cover up our own faults.We love us more than we love God. Before we criticize others, we have to live the way we expect others to live (Matthew 7:3-5). We downgrade the values: truth, love, concern, morality; we knock down the heroes: superiors and leaders; we often experience half of the truth. Watch those who criticize others: Stick is much bigger than speck. With too much errors, mistakes and drawbacks, how could someone criticize others. Jesus asked them to throw the woman caught for adultery to stone her first who is blameless. 6. The condition of our hearts produces the action of our hands (vv.43-45). We recognize a tree by its fruits; same with human beings: our thoughts, words, and actions. "He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruits in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither, and whatever he does shall prosper" (Psalm 1:3). God expects us to bear fruits. The lights within us are good fruits. When the light within us, i.e., the good works shine, we bear good fruits (Matthew 5:16). Trees with only leaves (Matthew 21:19), and fruitless fig tree (Luke 13:6). Live in Him to bear good fruits (John 15:4-5). Sap has to come out from the main stem. Be with God, the source of all goodness, to bear good fruits. Weeds do not bear fruits, and they are useless. But today's weeds can be tomorrow's fruitful tree like Mary Magdaline and Saul (later Paul). At the last judgment, Jesus looks for our fruits (Matthew 25:31-46): our conversations, actions, makeups, and so on. Jesus cursed the fig tree without fruits - cut and thrown into the fire. "Bear fruits worthy of repentance" (Luke 3:8-9). Blessed are the pure in heart (Matthew 5:8). If satan in the heart, fruits will be devilish (Matthew 12:34-35). A"tree is known by its fruit" (Matthew 12:33). We have to use our knowledge rightly (Proverbs 15:2), 28; 16:23; 18:21). If the treasure in our hearts is Jesus Christ, we will not accuse others. Our hearts shall be Christ-filled. Human race is like a tree: beautiful, strong, vulnerable. Though its branches, roots and main stem pull to each other, normally it stands straight and strong. People are like the leaves in various shapes. Organizations are like the branches joined and connected to the main stem depending upon each other. Roots spread around to support the tree to stand straight. Love, faith, happiness, peace, hope, etc. are the sap of the tree. The tree bends and hangs in the wind signifies various ideas, beliefs, conflicts, confrontations, and so on. Sun gives the enery and power: God, the omnipotent, omniscient, gives strength. Each leaf has its own individuality (not the same) does its job and eventually falls down. Cannot give shadow by itself, only the whole tree can .. need communal effort.

LUKE 14:25-35
1. Call for total commitment: Jesus had great following (v.25): A great multitude went with Him.
2. We must love Jesus greater than anyone else (VV.26-27): We must value Him more than life itself. He must be Lord of all. We must fully commit to Him. We have to bear His cross. We must be ready to forsake anyone or anything: Deuteronomy 13:6; 33:9; Matthew 10:37; Romans 9:13; Revelation 12:11.
3. We must consider the cost and be ready to pay it to be Jesus' disciples (vv.28-33): We have to prepare ourselves (Proverbs 24:27). Entire consecration is the key (Matthew 19:29).
4. Totally uncommitted Christians are like SALT that has lost its flavor (vv.34-35): Matthew 5:13; Mark 9:50; Colossians 4:6; Ephsians 4:29.
Salt was a sign of God's covenant with Israel (Leveticus 2:13). It is a preservative, a flavor enhancer, and a purifying agent. For Jews, the Law is the salt of the earth.
Salt has 14,000 uses; only 3% of the salt is used in the home. Just a dash of salt to season a meal makes a big difference. (1 ounce: 28 grams; 1 tea spoon: 5.5 grams; 1000 milligrams: 1 gram). Sodium is essential for good health. Average person takes about 6 to 18 grams of salt daily, when our body requires only about.5 grams salt. Too much salt leads to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Controlled sodium eating is essential.
(1) Salt is pure: no gems. If we are pure, our work should be pure (Proverbs 21:8); our hearts (1 Timothy 1:5); our conscience (1Timothy 3:9); our thoughts (Philippines 4:8); our religion (James 1:27).
(2) Salt makes meal tasty and pleasurable: Job 6:6: Christians should add flavor to other people's lives.
(3) Salt produces thirst: We should produce spiritual thirst in others: Matthew 5:16.
(4) Salt symbolizes hospitality (salt at the end of plantain leaf for wedding feast, etc., in Kerala in olden times): Christians should be hospitable: Numbers 18:19; 2 Chronicles 13:5.
(5) Salt melts at 801 celsius (1,474 degrees fh), but still it retains its particular chemical composition; so should Christians be.
Salt was a part of all grain offerings (Leveticus 2:13). Salt was so valuable that it was used to pay the wages of Roman soldiers; also used to buying and selling Greek slaves.
It is possible to lose our Christ like life; Those who fail to live up to their calling, they are worthless and no longer disciples.

LUKE 15:1-10
1. The Lost Sheep and coin: God's concern for the lost (three examples: Lost sheep, coin and son). God's joy is great when the sinners turn to Him: Matthew 9:10-15.
2. vv.2-7: Acts 11:3; Galatians 2:12; Matthew 18:12-14; 1 Peter 2:25. The plight of the lost sheep reflects the hopelessness and helplessness of sinners. God's love is revealed here: Romans 12:15; Luke 19:10; 1 Peter 2:10, 25. God rejoices at the repentance of sinners: Luke 5:32; Mark 2:17.
3. vv.8-10: Value of the lost sinner and God's diligence in seeking each one.

1 JOHN 2:22-29
1. vv.22-23: He who denies that Jesus Christ is the Promised Messiah is the greatest lier. He looses his fellowship with the Father and the Son: John 14:6; 1 John 4:3; 2 John 7.
2.vv: 24-25: The doctrine of Jesus Christ; His humility and diety shall remain with us to have true fellowship with the Father and the Son which is the essence of eternal life: 2 John 6-7, 9; John 14:23; 1 John 1:3.
3. vv.26-27: The false teachers try to lead us astray. The anointing of the Holy Spirit protects us. Through the anointing presence of the Holy Spirit in us, God also abides in us. So we also abide in God. The anointing of the Holy Spirit enables us to distinguish truth from error: John 14:16; 16:13; 1 John 2:20; Jeremiah 31:33; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 1 Thessalonians 4:9.
4.vv.28-29: By being obedient, we abide in fellowship with Christ. We have to practice righteousness to have eternal life with Christ who is righteous: Ephesians 3:12; 1 John 3:7, 10, 21; 4:17; Acts 22:14; John 7:18.
5. At His second coming, all the faithful departed shall resurrect and be taken to heaven (1 Corinthians 15) along with the faithful living. Our earthly experience with God and then in paradise and in heaven is the eternal life.

EPHESIANS 6:10-17
1. Spiritua warfare (vv.10-11), identifying the enemy (v.12), and describing our weapons (vv.13-17).
2. v.10: Only in the power of God's might, we can win against sin and satan.
v.11: God provides complete armor to protect us from all kinds of evil and temptations (2 Corinthians 6:7). Through the devil's schemings, we are drawn to carelessness and sin.
v.12: The Christian life is a struggle. Only through decisions and efforts, we can overcome. The devil and his hosts are our real enemy, not human flesh and blood. These rulers blind us to spiritual values. God has adequate power against all such evil doers: Acts 1:8; Romans 8:38; Luke 22:53.
v.13: By God's help, we can stand firm in the Lord during our hardest battle against evil: 2 Corinthians 10:4; Ephesians 5:16.
v.14: The Christian soldier must first put on truth, a firm commitment to the revealed word of God (Isaiah 11:5; Luke 12:35; 1 Peter 1:13. Seeking to do God's will is righteousness which protects us from evil: Isaiah 69:17; Romans 13:12; Ephesians 6:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:8.
v.15: We serve the prince of peace by which we can stand against God's and our enemies: Isaih 52:7; Romans 10:5.
v.16: Our dependence on God's promise protects us from the attacks of satan: 1 John 5:4.
v.17: The salvation provided by God through Christ is our safety and victory. The Holy Spirit enables us to use the sword of the spirit (Bible) to become spiritually strong and to lead others to Christ: 1 Thessalonians 5:8; Isaiah 49:2; Hosea 6:5; Hebrews 4:12.

EXODUS 14:21-31
1. The Israelites crossed the sea and believed the Lord and no more feared the Egyptians (v.10). They fixed their hope on Him.
v.21: Psalm 66:6; 106:9; 136:13-14; Exodus 15:8; Joshua 3:16; 4:23; Nehemiah 9:11; Psalm 74:13; 78:13; 114:3,5; Isaiah 63:12-13.
v.22: Exodus 15:19; Joshua 3:17; 4:22; Nehemiah 9:11; Psalm 66:6; 78:13; isaiah 63:13; 1 Corinthians 10:1; Hebrews 11:29; Exodus 14:29; 15:8; Hebrews 3:10.
v.24: Judges 7:19; Exodus 13:21.
v.25: Exodus 7:5; 14:4, 18.
v.27: Joshua 4:18; Exodus 15:1, 7; Deuteronomy 11:4; Nehemiah 9:11; Psalm 78:53; Hebrews 11:29.
v.28: Psalm 78:53; 106:11
v.29: Exodus 14:22; Psalm 66:6; 78:52-53; Isaiah 11:15
v.30: Exodus 14:13; Psalm 106:8, 10; Isaiah 63:8, 11 (Psalm 58:10; 59:10).
v.31: Exodus 4:31; 19:9; Psalm 106:12; John 2:11; 11:45.

1 SAMUEL 8:4-9
v.5: Samuel's sons were not worthy to follow his footsteps cf. Eli's sons (2:12, 22). So Israel asks for a king: Deuteronomy 17:14-15; Hosea 13:10; Acts 13:21.
vv.6-7: 1 Samuel 12:17; 7:9: Samuel listened and prayed to God.
vv.8-9: Their motive was rejection of God. But God did not like their request and Samuel warned them: vv.11-18.

ISAIAH 43:1-5
A very relevant promise of God: v.1: 43:5; 44:6; 42:6; 45:4
v.2: Psalm 66:12; 91:3 (Deuteronomy 31:6; Jeremiah 30:11; Daniel 3:25).
v.3: For freeing Israel, God permits the Persians to extend their empire: Proverbs 11:8; 21:18.
vv.4-5: Isaiah 63:9; 41:10; 44:2; 49:12; Jeremiah 30:10; 46:27-28.
God's presence gives us hope and salvation: Crossing the Red Sea aand destroying the Pharaoh's army (Exodus 14:21). Do not fear: Isaiah 43:2.

SECOND SUNDAY AFTER ASSUMPTION:
LUKE 11:14-23(Also 7th Sunday after Pentecost)

1. vv.14-16: Matthew 9:32-34; 12:22, 24: Jesus healing the devil possessed: Complained that Jesus is casting out devil with the help of Belzebub: Their opposistion to Jesus; they became satan's slaves. Jesus' opponents, especially Pharisees, claimed that His power came from satan and challenged to prove His power with a supernatural sign: Trying to make Son of God that of satan's. If fight against truth, lies or false doesn't win. Belzebub, the god of Ekron (2 Kings 1:3), is God's enemy.

2. If the devil is cast out, that means the kingdom of God is at hand. Devilish actions are temporary. Like darkness clears away with the coming of the light, the power of the devil swept away with the power of God. Evil shall be ovecome with goodness: Need communication with God; prayer. In baptism, we deny satan and accept Christ: Christ is the ruler: Hebrews 3:6. Thief comes to rob and destroy (John 10:10); should be careful to withdtand.

3. Those who seek for signs would not admit that.

4. vv. 17-18: Division brings weakness. If satan grants power to cast out darkness, he weakens his own evil work. A country or home or family if fights each other, destruction will follow. Win goodness fighting against evil.

5. Jesus' power is from other source: Matthew 12:25-29; Mark 3:23-27; John 2:25.

6. v.19: Some of the Jewish leaders claimed they had power from God to cast out demons. They could not judge Jesus without judging some of their own also.

7. vv.21-23: One cannot do the will of God and of satan at the same time. Fight against evil. Not for God are against the Almighty. We have to choose whether we will be with Jesus or against Him: Matthew 12:29-30; Mark 3:27; 9:40; Isaiah 53:12; Colossians 2:15;

8. If God is with us, nobody is against us. Who is our enemy? Others or the evil power within us.

9. vv.24-26: When Jesus delivers us from sins, we have to fill us with His spirit and busy with His works. Otherwise we will be worse than before by the works of the devil. The devil came back with seven because it was unclean and empty: Against laziness and inattentiveness:. Noah over-came the evil around (Genesis 6:30); Lack of fearful faithful: Psalm 12. After cleaning, there should be actions: singing, praying, Bible reading, etc. Matthew 12:43-45; Mark 1:27; 3:11; 5:13; Acts 5:16; 8:7; John 5:14; Hebrews 6:4-6; 10:26; 2 Peter 2:20.
LUKE 18:1-8
1. Maintain faith through prayer during the invisible kingdom period, i.e., the coming of the kingdom of God. Just as the widow never gave up, we must never become discouraged as we wait for His return. Christ will return at just the right time. We should never lose faith.
2. vv.1, 5, 7-8: Luke 11:5-10; Romans 12:12 (Ephesians 6:18); Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Luke 11:8; Revelation 6:10; Hebrews 10:37 ( 2 Peter 3:8-9).

LUKE 18:9-17
1. He who admits that he is a sinner and comes in childlike faith enters God's kingdom.
2. V.9: Self-righteousness finds no approval from God: Proverbs 30:12; Luke 10:29; 16:15.
3. v.11: Psalm 135:2; Isaiah 1:15; 58:2; Revelation 3:17
4. v.12: Pharisees fasted on Mondays and Thursdays.
5. v: 13: Beating the breast is a sign of repentance. God delights to hear and to answer the prayer: "God, be merciful."
6. v.14: The Pharisee justified himself, God justified the tax collector: Job 22:29; Matthew 23:12; Luke 14:11; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5.
7. v.15: Matthew 19:13-15; Mark 10:13-16.
8. v.16: Children are very important for God: Matthew 18:3; 1 Corinthians 14:20; 1 Peter 2:2.
9. v.17: A child receives everything freely from his parents. When we accept God's fatherhood, we receive all blessings from Him: Matthew 19:14; Mark 10:15.

2 PETER 3:8-14
1. Thoughts on the end of the world shall lead us to conversion and hard work: 1 Thessalonians 5:1ff.
2. v.8: Christ's second coming: What seems like delay to us does not seem long to God: Psaalm 90:4.
3. v.9: The Lord has not forgotten His promise to return. He waits so that more people will have the opportunity to be saved:Habakuk 2:3; Romans 13:11; Hebrews 10:37; Psalm 86:15; Isaiah 30:18; Ezekiel 33:11; Matthew 20:28; Romans 2:4.
4. v.10: Christ's return will be sudden and unexpected: Luke 12:39-40; Isaiah 13:10-13; Matthew 24:29, 35, 42-43; 1 Thessalonians 5:2; Revelation 3:3; 16:15; Genesis 1:6-8; psalm 102:25-26; Isaiah 51:6; Revelation 20:11.

5. V.11: Prepare with holy conduct and spirit of godliness: 1 Peter 1:15.
6. v.12: Christians to lead others to Christ and to pray for the salvation of the lost: 1 Corinthians 1:7-8; Titus 2:13-15; Psalm 50:3; Isaiah 24:19; 34:4; Micha 1:4. The physical universe will be removed or cleansed from the effects of sin.
7. V.13: God will establish a new world order. It will be completely free from the effects of sin: Isaiah 65:17-25; 66:22; Revelation 21:1-2; Romans 8:21.
8. v.14: We should live a blameless life of holiness until Christ comes: 1 Corinthians 1:8; 15:58; 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13; 5:23.

1 THESSALONIANS 5:1-11
1. Be prepared for Christ's coming.
2. v.1: The time and manner of Jesus' return: Matthew 24:3.
3. v.2: The second coming is surprising like that of a thief: Matthew 24:44; Luke 21:34; 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 2 peter 3:10; Revelation 3:3; 16:15.
4. v.3: The unchristians will be separated from God and the Church (2 Thessalonians 1:9) and they cannot escape (Amos 5:18-20; Isaiah 13:6-9; Hosea 13:13.
5. vv.4-5: Darkness is a symbol of sinfulness and light of godliness. Christians are children of light and of the day. The light of Jesus Christ is upon us (2 Corinthians 4:4, 6). We have been enlightened by God's truth and made new by His Spirit: Acts 26:18; Romans 13:12; Ephesians 5:8; 1 John 5:8.
6. vv.6-7: Unbelievers live in the night. They are spiritually asleep and are irresponsible as if drunk: Matthew 25:5, 13; Mark 13:5; 1 Peter 5:8; Luke 21:34; Acts 2:15; 2 Peter 2:13.
7. v.8: Like a good soldier ready for battle, we, Christians should be ready for the return of Jesus Christ armed with faith, love and hope of salvation (Ephesians 6:14-17)> We should be spiritually aggressive: Isaiah 59:17; Ephesians 6:14.
8. vv: 9-11: We have the final blessedness with God who died for us. When He comes, we all those who are alive and dead will live together with Him: Romans 9:22; 2 Thessalinians 2:13; 2 Corinthians 5:15.

GENESIS 6:3-12
1. We are not of the dark, but of Jesus Christ, the true light.
2. Noah's time was of evil. He lived in blameless and righteous.
3. v.3: Genesis 41:38 (Galatians 5:16-17); 1 Peter 3:19-20; 2 Thessalonians 2:7; Psalm 78:39. Maximum life span would be reduced to 120 years.
4. v.4: Numbers 13:32-33: Godly men of the line of Seth and the sinful women of the line of Cain (Luke 17:27). Their intermarriage produced giants, renowned for wickedness.
5. v.5: Genesis 8:21; Psalm 14:1-3; Proverbs 6:18; Matthew 15:19; Romans 1:28-32.
6. v.6: God is very compassionate: Genesis 6:7; 1 samuel 15:11, 29; 2 Samuel 24:16; Jeremiah 18:7-10; Zachariah 8:14; Psalm 78:40; Isaiah 63:10; Ephesians 4:30; Matthew 3:5.
7. v.7: Human sin affected all the animal world (Romans 8: 19-22); genesis 7:4, 23; Deuteronomy 28:63; 29:20; Psalm 7:11.
8. v.8-9: Noah, like Enok, was blameless: Genesis 17:1; 19:19; Exodus 33:12, 17; Luke 1:30; Acts 7:46; Ezekiel 14:14, 20; Hebrews 11:7; 2 Peter 2:5: Diificult to live in an evil society; but Noah proved that we have to face such challenges.
9. vv.10-12: Genesis 5:32; 7:13; Deuteronomy 31:29; Romans 2:13; Ezekiel 8:17; Psalm 14:2; 53:2-3; psalm 14:1-3; isaiah 28:8.

ECCLESIASTES 7:1-7 1. The importance and value of character.
2. v.1: Need a serious approach: Proverbs 22:1; Eccl. 4:2
3. v.2: Better to visit the bereaved than to go to a party (Psalm 90:2). We should be ready for the death. We can overcome this enemy in Christ (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).
4. V.3: "Still waters run deep": (2 Corinthians 7:10) Sorrow produces repentance.
5. v.4: Wise people understands the importance of mourning.
6. v.5: It is better to listen the wise than the joke of the fools: Psalm 141:5; Proverbs 13:18; 15:31-32.
7. v.6: Psalm 58:6-9; Eccleseastes. 2:2: Quick - burning fuel for cooking fires.
8. v.7: Oppression and bribe deviate straight thinking.

PSALM 12:1-7
1. Lack of God-fearing people.
2. v.1-2: David starts the prayer with a complaint. All godly persons are gone (Isaiah 57:1; Micha 7:2). All who are left speak from the double heart of sinful: James 3:8-12; Psalm 10:7; 41:6
3. v.3-4: God doesn't like flattering lips and speaking proud things. Arrogant pride rebels against God.
4. v.5: God intervenes and helps the poor and the needy.
5. v.6: God's words are complete purity: 2 samuel 22:31; Psalm 18:30; 119:140; Proverbs 30:5
6. v.7: God preserves and keeps the poor and the needy.

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