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

SYNOPSIS FOR SERMONS AND MEDITATIONS-JUNE
By V.Rev.Thomas P.Mundukuzhy Cor Episcopa

SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
MATTHEW 10:5-16

1. Sent among the lost (John 7:49). We have to go after the Lost: Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Prodigal Son.Their ignorance and Jesus' concern for them: "How much do you love me ? "This much": The game we play with children by hand signals and finally asking: "Do you love Jesus this much?": Ephesians 2:4-7; John 3:16.

2. Early ministry among the Israelites: They are the Lost Sheep. Need to organize one's own family, parish, church, etc. Clean the household.

3. Only after resurrection, Jesus commanded to go to all the world with His mission (Matthew 28:20).

4. Not only preaching, but action. Do good things: healing, helping, caring, etc., are parts of the ministry. Tend the Lost and preach the Gospel: Missions of the Church: Preach good tidings to the poor; heal the broken hearted; free the captives (Matthew 10:7 cf. Isaiah 61:1f).

5. God provides the workers; depend on God. We shall be filled with the peace of God to pass on to others. Attitude is more important than aptiude and altitude.

6. Lead simple life: Have simple living and high thinking: God gives the reward.

7. Missionaries should have discipline: Wandering house to house without any aim doesn't bear fruits; only it is harmful. Need knowledge (study and meditation) and holy life.

8. The ministers shall be supported, but they should not be greedy. Sodom and Gomorrah: (Genesis 19:23-24). Freely received GRACE (John 1:16) to be shared with others.

9. Deal with the "wolves" intelligently and sincerely to win them. Wise as serpents (2 Corinthians 12:16; Ephesians 5:15; Colossians 4:5).Harmless as doves:(Philip. 2:14-16).

LUKE 6:13-23
1. We have to trust in a loving Father, not in amassed wealth.
2. In Jewish religion, the oldest son gets a double portion of the wealth to support his mother and sisters, if any.
3. We have to have the right attitude toward wealth: Wealth is not just for hoarding; wealth is not just for one's own personal use and pleasure; wealth alone cannot satisfy one's lasting needs (Matthew 6:33); anxiety or worry only add to more problems.

MARK 3:7-19
1. Jesus' popularity increases; people from many places followed Him.
2. Jesus chose His 12 disciples and summoned them onto a mountain, often a place of divine revelation.

 

3. The disciples, the extension of His ministry (1:16-17, 38-39) were sent out (6:17-18) to preach, teach, heal, and to cast out demons.
4. Sons of Thunder: James and John: their conduct (9:38; 10:35-41).; name shows the character.



ACTS 4:23-31
1. They prayed to God so that they could witness: come together and pray.
2. The victory of God's chosen king (David) gave them the courage (Psalm 2:1-2).
3. Faith in God's control of events: Our trust shall be in Jesus.
4. We should have the courage to face the challenge (John 20:19)
5. Prayers answered with the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

EPHESIANS 2:11-22
1. If Christ is not within us, it is a sad state.
2. Christ reconciles us with anybody: Then we will have glorious experiences.
3. The Church is God's temple; we are part of that building, which is built on the foundation of the word of God by the Apostles and Prophets. Christ is the chief cornerstone (1 Peter 2:4-8).
4. The Church finds its unity in Christ.
5. The Church is not yet complete: members are being added to it.
6. God is spirit: He is present everywhere.

LEVETICUS 19:1-8
1. We should be holy as God is holy ( 1 Peter 1:15-16): Our relationships with parents, children, women, aged, poor, strangers and our worship.
2. Follow the commandments: our duties to God as well as to people.
3. We have to do our duties and services willingly and freely.

2 SAMUEL 5:1-10
1. David became king of all Israel (1 Chronicles 3:4; 11:-3; 29:26-27) at the age of 30 and reigned altogether for 40 years.
2. Jerusalem became the capital: 1 Chronicle 11:4-9; 14:1-7
3. Abner and Ishbosheth died.
4. The Jebusites: Boasting doesn't mean anything.
5. Zion, the hill, where the Jebusites had there fortification was first mentioned here.
6. God should be with us in all our endeavors.

DANIEL 6:25-28
1. God delivers Daniel from the lions.
2. King Darius declared his faith that He is the living God (cf. 4:1-3).
3. Daniel was blessed and prospered.

THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
JOHN 6:35-46

1. Changed their attention from physical to spiritual. Those who go to Him will not be cast out (v.37) and those who believe in Him will have everlasting life (v.39). They get satisfaction (v.35)..never hunger or thirst.

2. MANNA: Bread from heaven (Nehemiah 9:15). ˙Hoped manna at the arrival of Messiah (2 Baruch 29:8). Manna was the image of Messiah.

3. Jesus is the bread of life: The first of seven "I am's" (John 6:35, 48; 8:12; 10:9; 10:11; 11:25; 14:6; 15:1). Adam and Eve couldn't enjoy the fruits of the tree of life. It was Jesus Christ: He is the bread of life. Jesus came from heaven as Manna also came from heaven. Temptation when hungry: Jesus - Matthew 4:3; Rich man: Luke 16:24-25. Avoid weakness: James 1:14. Food gives life to the body; love gives life to the soul. God fills us with love through Holy Spirit. When we love others, we depart from death and enter into life (1 John 3:14): Doing His will (the food of Jesus) is the road (John 4:34). Work hard for the bread for survival; earn bread of life.

4. Jesus satisfies every one who comes to Him sincerely and earnestly (The sweetest verse in the Bible: Matthew 11:28: "Come to me all who labor and heavy loaden, I will give you rest.") Need complete surrender and dedication: Live in goodness, humility, sinceriety and holiness. Never forsake (6:37). Promised paradise to the thief on the cross: Ezekiel 18:21-24. Those who go to Him will not get hungry or thirsty. What an exciting experience?

5. Every one who believes in Him will have everlasting life. When we listen to the words of Jesus, spiritual hunger and thirst; when we receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ, quenches the hunger and thirst. (Luke 24:30-32). Those who received absolution and forgiveness, if they go back to sin again, difficult to conversion... reached to the point of diminishing returns.

6. The Jews protested about Jesus' claims. Jesus was not welcomed among them because of jealous and enmity.

7. Jesus quoted Isaiah 54:13 to prove that all can achieve salvation. God teaches goodness and righteousness. We can receive or reject.

8. We can see God through seeing and experiencing Jesus Christ. Those who are attracted to God shall go to Jesus. He never forsake us. Father waited for lost son. He(She) who looks at Him and believes Him has eternal life. People looked at the brass serpent Moses raised and were escaped. We have to go to God to be blessed...to quench our hunger and thirst.

MARK 6:4-13
1. The rejection by His own people: Jesus was rejected by the leaders of the nation earlier (3:1-6); here by His own people.
2. God could not do much among unbelievers.
3. Sent the disciples two by two.

LUKE 9:1-11
 1. Jesus's ministry continued through the training of the twelve. He gave them the power and the authority. They reported back to Jesus (v.10).
2. Christ helps us to fulfill our responsibilities and we are obliged to be accountable.
3. We shall depend upon Him in doing our duties.
4. We shall not be pleasure seekers.
5. We may be face with rejections.
6. The perplexed Herod sought to see Jesus.
7. The multitude followed Jesus where ever He went.

ACTS 13:26-39
1. St. Paul's preaching in Cyprus.
2. Jesus' ministry, condemnation, resurrection and forgiveness.

GALATIANS 6:10-18
1. St. Paul wrote the letter by himself.
2. There is an interpersonal relationships between Christians.
3. Those who are advocating certain parts of the law and not keeping up with the other parts are hypocrites.
4. We have to boast only Christ and His cross and nothing else.
5. We are new creations with Christ.
6. Paul suffered due to his total commitment (marks); we have too.
7. Blessed benediction.

GENESIS 42:18-25
1. Joseph's encounter with his brothers who sold him.
2. A guilty conscience even after many years of their dealings.
3. Joseph, hearing the story of Reuben, turned away and wept.

JEREMIAH 3:1-5
1. God calls Jerusalem to repent.
2. God is ready to receive a repentant (Deuteronomy 24:1-4).
3. The adulterous Israel can reconcile with God.

DANIEL 3:21-30
1. The faith Daniel's friends is tested and vindicated.
2. The king saw four men in the fire instead of three -- the fourth one "like the Son of God."
3. Nebuchadnessar's faith in God and the decree.

FATHER'S DAY (JUNE 16th)

LITTLE HISTORY:
Sonona Smart Dodd in Spokane, Washington wanted to show her love and admiration toward her dad by honoring him who raised her and her five brothers after their mother died. A Mother's Day sermon she listened in 1909 instigated her to do so. Thus Spokane observed the first Father's Day in June, 1910, the month of William Smart's birthday with the help of the community and the governor. The third Sunday of June was declared Father's Day by the Mayor of Spokane and in 1956 the Congress recognized the date and observation and a permanent national celebration day was proclaimed by president Nixon in 1972, 58 years after Mother's Day was declared 1n 1914. Like Christmas, Easter, Mother's Day, now Father's Day has been observing all over the country.

BIBLICAL:
1. Honor your Father and your mother: Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16 (one of the ten commandments) cf. Deuteronomy 8:1-9
2. My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother: Proverbs 1:8
3. Receive father's words and treasure his commandments: Proverbs 2:1
4. Pay attention to father's words (Proverbs 4:20) and wisdom (5:1)
5. Humble before a friend: Proverbs 6:3
6. Make parents glad: Proverbs 10:1
7. Listen, observe, and follow the footsteps of father: Proverbs 23:6
8. Fear the Lord: Proverbs 24:21
9. Be wise: Proverbs 27:1.

SPIRITUAL WELFARE:
If parents are concerned about the children's eating habits, the enamel of thier teeth, etc., they should also be concerned about their moral and spiritual welfare. Children should not grow up in a spiritual vaccum. Joseph's parents taught their children to love God and value charity from childhood. Jesus gave us a moral foundation. He put meaning and purpose into our lives. He fills our life with His presence. Parents should play with them and pray with them and eat with them. "I'd rather have Jesus than silver and gold I'd rather be His than riches untold." Being a father is life's greatest privileges and responsib-ilities. Inch by inch a child's personality is formed by the closeness it has with its family. Share the pain, hurt, and rejections. Share joys and sorrows, failures and successes, hopes and dreams.

ABRAHAM, AN IDEAL FATHER:
Father of All Nations:
(1) Praised children and especially spouse: "Beautiful" Genesis 12:11
(2) Found a suitable match for his son (not from other tribe, but from his own): Genesis 24:3-4
(3) No dowry question: He was rich in many ways.
Early Fathers blessed their sons:
(1) Issac: Esau and Jacob: Genesis 27: 1ff
(2) Jacob: Genesis 49: 1ff
(3) Moses: Deuteronomy 33: 1ff
A. Blessed promise to all of God's people
B. Underneath are the everlasting arms: Deut 33:27.

A FATHERS' ADVICE:
1. Compliment where ever and when ever possible
2. Say "Thank you" and "please" a lot
3. Make friends, but keep secrets
4. Learn the trade and admit mistakes
5. Be brave and learn to listen
6. Do charity works and pray for wisdom and courage

7. Read the Holy Bible cover to cover
8. Never deprive someone and never take action when angry
9. Loose a battle, but win a war
10. Don't gossip
11. Don't expect life to be fair
12. Substitute "problem" with "opportunity"
13. Do not walk on a quarrel with the spouse
14. Do not procastinate
15. Get priorities straight
16. Don't be afraid to say "I don't know" or "I am sorry"
17. Make a list of things you want to achieve in your life and follow through. Have parental love and support, give children freedom to choose, build sel-respect, be model to them and have open communication. Do not expect more than they can, don't be too authoritative, give utmost concern for priorities, do not be a hypocrite, and do not misuse or abuse parental authority.

TURN THE HEARTS OF FATHERS TO THE CHILDREN (MALACHI 4:5-6):
1. Right leadership: Bring the children to the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Display compassion, courage, godly understanding, firmness, maturity, and loving leadership. Be a coach, not a judge,
2. Good provider: He gives all good things (James 1:17): Support, love, emotionally and spiritually.
3. Guidance: Train them the right way to live (Proverbs 22:6; Deuteronomy 6:7): Moral matters, discipline. Father should be around the children to support them (Psalms 128:1-4)
4. Consistent: The same yesterday, today and for ever (Hebrews 13:8): Value of God's way; character; peaceful (1 Corinthians 14:33). God is our model. Keep the faith and be strong: 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Abshalom fought with his father: 2 Samuel 12:1ff David loved Abshalom, his son, so much. But Abshalom murdered Abnon ( 2 Samuel 13:28-28). David regained Abshalom's affection ... Abshalom's plot against David ( 2 samuel 15:1-6). David still loved him (2 Samuel 18:5) Father's love and affection toward their children.

DADS ARE GREAT: May not be a world leader, a famous doctor or a war hero or a sports hero or business tycoon.. but a father is the greatest person in the eyes of his children... He pays his bills, goes to church with them on Sundays, helps the kids to learn and to shop around. Like mother, he is all in all in the family. Respect him and give him credit as he is a great success as a husband, a father, and a friend. If a MOTHER is a CEO, vicepresident, treasurer, secretary, bookeeper, quality control manager, event coordinator, creative director, productive analyst, humanitarian, trainer, or the communications manager, FATHER is the supervisor of all of these and much more.

POPULAR GIFTS:
(1) Cologne:About 3,500 gallons are sold every year in connection with Father's day making it the the second largst cologne-purchasing holiday after Christmas.
(2) Ties: About 10 million ties sold, again second after Christmas
(3) Roses: About two million every year. Flower gift-givings have been increasing 30% every year.
(4) Telephone calls: About 100 million (115 million on Mother's Day) making it third after Mother's Day and Christmas.
(5) Greting cards and gift packages: 130 million cards and 75 million packages, again third after Christmas and Mother's Day.
(6) Pants and small gift items: Wrinkle-free pants and small gifts are also popular items.
(7) Tools and Game items: Restock stool sheds with power equipments or present with golf/tennis items ... anything according to the need and taste of fathers.

FOURTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
Beginning of the Apostle's Fast
LUKE 10:1-16

1. The mission spread ... more ministers in the field.

2. Selected 70 (72) evangelists. Twelve Apostles represent 12 tribes (12 bells on the censer chain) and 70 elders (Numbers 11:24) represent 70 evangelists (70 sections on the censer chain) ... like Sanhedrim... (12 springs/70 palm olives: Exodus 15:27). These 70 from Noah's family: 14 from Yapeth; 30 from Ham and 26 from Shem totalling 70 (Genesis 10:1-32). Need to preach the Gospel to each one - in order to lengthen the cords and strengthen the stakes (Isaiah 54:2). 70 were selected to continue His teachings like the twelve Apostles and later seven deacons in Acts 6:1-7.

3. Sent by two: Help to share and bear: Two heads are better than one.

4. Sent out not to sow the seeds, but to reap. Their mission: 9:1-6; 10:2-11: To heal the sick and to preach the Good news. Everybody should have exhortation and counselling (Hebrews 3:13). Give courage those who are frightened, make busy those who are lazy, comfort the sorrowful (1 Thessalonians 5:14-22).

5. Jesus' tender heart: Too much to do; but few to work. To ask the Master to send laborers (Matthew 9:37-38) to save those without shepherds. .. to spread the kingdom of God ... to bear witness to the truth (John 18:37); to be witnesses of whom God raised from the dead (Acts 3:15); to be witnesses of all things Jesus did (Acts 10:38); to prepare the hearts; to reap thirty, sixty, hundred times of harvest. The harvest is great; but the laborers are few: We have a very wide mission field... work and pray. Have concern.

6. Apostles followed; how about we? When God calls, need to rspond. Where there is no revelation, destruction is at hand (Proverbs 29:18).

7. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit: Galatians 1:16-17.

8. "Here I am": Isaiah 6:8

9. The field: Like lambs in the midst of the wolves: Expect protests, troubles, tribulations, deaths. Continue with sinceriety and faith. If we are with Christ, satan will be defeated.
10. Evangelists should be careful: snake's intelligence and dove's meekness.

11. Evangelists shall be provided.

12. Extend peace to the household and to every one. Wishing peace is very important. Receive the message of conversion with humility. Pride goes before fall (10:15). Meditate the laws of God day and night: Psalm 1:2.

13. Those who don't listen shall be punished. Jesus cursed Chorazin, Bethsaida and Caparnaum because they did not listen to Jesus to bear fruits.

14. Acceptance and refusal of mission workers like accepting or neglecting Jesus Christ.

DEUTERONOMY 33:23-29
1. Like the early fathers (Genesis 27:1-4; 49:1-27), Moses blesses his sons.
2. The blessed promise to all of God's people (33:27): the everlasting arms.
PSALM 15
1. An excellent description of the life of entire satisfaction
2. The question in verse 1 is answered in verses 2-5
3. The communion and fellowship with God (v. 1)
4. Uprightly:Wholehearted; complete; perfect; blameless
5. Righteousness: Right actions and relationships
6. Speak the truth: Correspondence with reality These three elements are needed for rightful ritual.
7. What is done and what is not done are reckoned.
8. Troubles or problems will not change the sheltering presence: Psalm 91:1-2.

ISAIAH 65:8-12
1. Believing people will be blessed; they will have a glorious hope.
2. God calls us constantly; we have to obey.
ACTS 6:1-7
1. Seven deacons were chosen from among the Greek speaking to meet the need.
2. The need of deacons for the growth of the Church.
3. Apostles took the first step.
4. Alleged discrimination on the basis of language and culture.
5. All the believers were called for the selection.
6. Selected qualified candidates ... men of good reputation, full of Holy Spirit and wisdom.

7. Congregation selected and brought to the Apostles
8. Church leaders shall give full time to prayer, preaching and teaching.
9. Ordination by prayer and laying on of hands.
10. The gospel spread all over: big crowd and many workers.

CORINTHIANS 16: 13-22
1. St. Paul's concluding exhortations and greetings.
2. Stand fast, be strong, and have love.
3. Respect those who serve in the Church through their ministeries.
4. The Church spread all over Asia: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos (Revelation 1:11), Colosse, Laodicea, Hierapolis (Colossians 4:13, 16.)
5. Aquila and Priscilla, St. Paul's companion workers in Ephesus (Acts 18:1-3; Romans 16:3-4).
6. Personal touch for authenticity.
7. Though the Corinthian Church had several problems, St. Paul sent his love to them.

MATTHEW 14:14-23
1. Feeding of the Five Thousand: the only miracle in all four Gospels: Mark 6:12-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-15. Jesus had compassion: 15:32; 20:34; 9:36.
2. Jesus multiplied the only rsources: five loaves and two fish.
3. The disciples experienced more about Jesus
4. Tell Christ what we have (v. 17)
5. Listen to what He says (v.18)
6. Obey what He commands: (v. 19)
7. Rejoice in what He does through us: vv.20-21
8. They collected the left over: no waste
9. 5000 men besides women and children: the family unity

FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
LUKE 9:10-17

1. Feeding of 5000 in all four Gospels.

2. The disciples returned and reported: Give report of the work.

3. Jesus took them for a retreat ... for some rest.

4. Many came to see Jesus: All kinds of people: drug addicts, alcoholics, publicans, sick and sinners.

5. Not irritated; but received and blessed. God never forsakes, even parents do: Psalm 27:10 God never forsakes, even a woman forgets her child: Isaiah 49:15. A friend loves at all times: Proverbs 17:17 Never cast out: John 6:37.

6. Disciples told to disperse: Walking away from problems; avoiding the situation.

7. The disciples alone couldn't meet the needs of the crowd; they needed help from the Master.

8. Jesus told them to give and feed: the responsibility of the Church: Give good news, food and heal. Food is important: Physical (humanitarian works) and spiritual (Gospel preaching).

9. Christ's concern for the needy and the disciples were held responsible to take care. When obeyed, they became instruments of Jesus' power.
10. Christ's concern for the needy and the disciples were held responsible to take care. When obeyed, they became instruments of Jesus' power.

11. Brought what ever they found (from a little boy: John 6:9). Though simple, God wants us to use what we have and what we are willing to do. Bring what ever we have to the Lord, He will bless and increase.

12. Plenty in the desert: If Jesus is with us, we can solve all our problems. Thirsting to drink is a desert experience: Psalm 63:1. If God is not with us, our life is like in a desert: Isaiah 40:3. Through God's intervention, troubles in the desert are gone: multiplied.

13. Converted the desert into a grassy field. At the end of our lives, the Shepherd directs us to grassy and watery place (Psalm 23). We have to go to God for this experience.

14. Jesus blessed, broke and gave as in the Holy Qurbana: Fellowship. Bring what ever we have to the Lord. He will bless and increase.

15. We should see the needs of others.

16. Sat down in group of fifty's: Obedient group; orderly arrangement.

17. Receive with a smile and welcome with few happy words.

18. Israelites were fed with Manna in the desert; the multitude was fed with spiritual food.

19. Gathered the left over: Don't waste God's gifts.

20. The multiude believed Him and wanted to make Him king (John 6:15).

MATTHEW 20:17-28
1. Jesus telling His disciples of His coming death: Matthew 16:21-28.
2. Zebedee's sons, James and John, seek worldly preference: Mark 10:35-37.
3. The cross is Jesus' throne (27:37-38). His followers experience suffering and death.
4. God rewards the faithfuls irrespective of their experiences.
5. True value is found in service, not in domination; in the cross, not the crown: Philippians 2:5-11.
6. Jesus' death is a ransom for many: a costly one by which we are freed from sin.

ACTS 9:10-18
1. Saul, the zealous Pharisee who headed the persecution against the disciples became God's chosen vessel to witness before the Gentiles.
2. Ananias, like Samuel (1 Samuel 3:4), responded and acted.
3. Saul received God's revelation by a light, a man, and a vision.
4. The prosecutor became the prosecuted.
5. Ananias laid the hands on Saul .... and was baptized.

2 CORINTHIANS 5:14-20
1. The transforming and reconciling work of Christ.
2. Christ's love for all mankind (1 John 4:19). Christ died for all of us. We have to accept this by faith.
3. Once we accept Christ, we shall forgo our own self-interest.
4. We are a new creation in Christ Jesus.
5. We are reconciled and as ambassadors of Christ, we have to proclaim this Good News.

EXODUS 23:14-19
1. Three Sacred Feasts: Exodus 34:18; 23-26; Deuteronomy 16:1-17. A. The Feast of the Unleavened Bread: For seven days ... came out of Egypt. B. The Feast of Harvest: the first fruits of labors. C. The Feast of Ingathering at the end of the year.
2. Commitment.

PSALM 16
1. A song of trust, a joyous testimony.
2. The reasons for trusting God (vv. 1-4). God is the source of all goodness (Job 35:7) and is received by faith.
3. Benefits of the trust (vv. 5-8). We have to make God our most prized possession (portion, inheritance). We will have god-given security.
4. The confidence of those who trust in the Lord (vv. 9-11): Our faith extends beyond the grave. Even our death cannot bring an end to that fellowship. 5. Life in newness makes us closer to God.
ISAIAH 40: 27-31

1. God is faithful and delivers us.
2. It is foolish to depend upon human strength.
3. We have to wait for Him. THE TWELVE APOSTLES: Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:14-19; Luke 6:13-16; Acts 1:13.
MATTHEW 9:36-10:15

1. God has compassion for sinning people; so also Jesus had compassion when He saw the people wandering in sin like lost sheep without a shephered (10:6).
2. There are plenty to receive the Gospel, but few to preach. Need to pray and work. 3. Jesus called the 12 disciples who became Apostles (shared in Jesus' mission) representing Jesus to represent the 12 tribes of Israel (19:28) for the beginning of the New Israel, which is the Church. The twelve and (St. Paul) witnessed His resurrection and helped to build the Church.
3. These 12 Apostles are in three groups of four each: A. Two pairs of brothers: Simon Peter and Andrew & James and John (fishermen: Mt. 4:18-22). B. Philip, Bartolomew, Thomas and Matthew (Levi): Matthew 9:9; Luke 5:27 C. James (son of Alphaeus), Judas Iscariot, Thaddaeus, and Simon (the Cananite, the zealot). (For more about the Apostles, see chapter two: "THE EXPANSION OF OUR CHURCH" in OUR CHURCH by this author.
4. Jesus sent His Apostles to the house of Israel during His earthly ministry. But after resurrection, to all the world (Matthew 28:19).
5. Samaritans: Half-breeds of Israelites and Gentiles. The Jews did not associate with them due to long-standing social and religious disagtrements.
6. The disciples have to heal the sick, raise the dead, and cast out demons.
7. The Apostles shall be supported by the congregation; should not shop around for better hospitality nor should be greedy.
8. They should greet the household and bless.
9. Unbelieving may reap the consequences.
10. Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19:23-24): If you know more about God and reject, the result will be more less tolerable.
MATTHEW 19:27-30

1. Peter thought that the Apostles may have a greater award for their response to Jesus' call.
2. Rewards for all those who response based on God's graciousness and not on human merit: 19:30-20:16.
3. The reward will be at the second coming (Romans 8:18-22; Revelation 21:1-5).
4. The rewards are not based on the time or energy, but on the faith and works: 20:16.
LUKE 6:12-26
1. Before the selection, Jesus spent the whole night in prayer.
2. The selection was from a large group (10:1; Acts 1:15).
3. Apostle: One sent to a mission. Apart from the twelve, also Paul (Galatians 1:1), James (James 1:19), and Barnabas (Acts 14:14). They witnessed the resurrection and spread the Gospel message.
4. The twelve, other disciples, and a great multitude were present for the Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5:1-12; 38-48; 7:1-15; 15-20; 24-27; 12:33-35.

ST. PETER & ST. PAUL DAY (END OF APOSTLES' FAST: JUNE 29th) :

ST. PETER:
1. Son of Jonah of Napthali tribe.
2. From Galile and lived in Caparnaum
3. Brother of Andrew, who introduced Peter to Jesus.
4. Fisherman and married
5. Called along with John and James while fishing: Matthew 4:18-20; John 1:40-42
6. His name Simon was renamed Peter, means "rock"
7. With Jesus when the daughter of Jarius was raised (Mark 5:35-43), at Mount Tabor (Transfiguration: Matthew 17:1-8; 2 Peter 1:16-18), and at Gethsamanae (struck the ear of the servant: Matthew 26:51).
8. Walked on water: Matthew 14:28-33
9. Christ's deity confessed:"Christ, the Son of the Living God": Matthew 16:13-19/
10. Once Jesus rebuked him: Matthew 16:13-19
11. Protested when the Master came to wash his feet
12. Jesus told him to forgive debtors 70 times seven.
13. Fled when Jesus was arrested, then returned, and denied three times: Matthew 26:69-75
14. Raced to the tomb when heard of His resurrection
15. Confessed, wept, and reinstated: John 21:15-17
16. Mathias was chosen under his leadership: Acts 1:15f
17. Preached at Pentecost: Acts 2:1ff
18. First mass conversion in response to preaching
19. Spoke at Jerusalem Council: Acts 15:7-14
20. Performed miracles: Acts 3:1-11; 5:14-16; 9:32-43
21. Travelled and preached the Gospel: Acts 10
22. Defended the ministry to the gentiles: 11:1-8
23. Wrote epistles: 1 Peter 1:1; 2 Peter 1:1
24. Imprisoned and angels delivered: Acts 12:3-19
25. Crucified in Rome -- head downwards per his wish.

ST. PAUL:

1. Born as "Saul" in Tarsus of Cilicia (Acts 22:3), tribe of Benjamin (Philippians 3:5), a Jew and a Roman citizen.
2. Learned tent-making when young (Acts 18:3) and studied under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3).
3. Hebrew, Pharisee (Philippians 3:5), persecuted Christians (Acts 8:1-3; Philippians 3:6), witnessed the martyrdom of St.. Stephen, and after Palastenian persecution went to Damascus for more atrocities.
4. Met the risen Christ on the road to Damascus: Acts 9:1-8
5. Conversion and new name: Paul.
6. Received Holy Spirit on the street called Straight: 9:11.
7. There after went to the Arabian jungle to spend some time in meditation.
8. Attacked and the disciples helped by sending him to Syria.
9. Antioch Church sent to missionary work: Acts 13:1-3
10. Carried the Gospel to the gentiles: Galatians 2:7-10
11. Spoke in the Council of Jerusalem: Acts 15:1-35
12. Opposed Peter (Galatians 2:11-21): corrected him.
13. Disputed with Barnabas about John Mark (15:36-45); Paul took Silas.
14. Three missionary journies: Acts 13-20
15. Founded numerous Churches in Asia Minor, Greece: Romans 15:24-28.
16. Wrote seversal (14) epistles from the prison: Half of NT
17. Arrested in Jerusalem and sent to Rome :Acts 21:27; 28:16-31
18. After release, more missionary works, then arrested again in Rome and beheaded in A.D. 68. More about St: Paul:

19. Come to Macedonia and help us: Acts 16:9.
20. Preached Jesus Christ and Him crucified: 1 Cori. 2:2
21. In Philippi Paul first preached the Gospel of Christ in Europe: Acts 16:11-40.
22. Then in Thessalonica for three weeks: Acts 17:1-9
23. "The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing": 1 Corinthians 1:18
24. St. Paul preached about repentance, the resurrection and salvation as well as God's judgment.
25. "For in Him, we live and move and have our being": Acts 17:28
26. Humans "should seek the Lord in the hope that they might grope for Him and find Him": Acts 17:27 27. Dionysius and Damaris believed Paul: Acts 17:34
27. "Jesus is the Christ": Acts 18:4-5: in Corinth.
28. "Do not be afraid, but speak and do not keep silent": Paul's vision: Acts 18:9-10
29. Every thought "to the obedience of Christ": 2 Cori. 10:5
30. Christ strengthens: Philippians 4:13
31. Believe in Christ to be saved:: Acts 16:23-27
32. St. paul's trials: 2 Corinthians 11:23-27
33. St. Paul's faith: Philippians 4:13 (For more about these two Apostles, see chapter two: THE EXPANSION OF OUR CHURCH" in OUR CHURCH" by this author). MATTHEW 20:1-16

1. We receive generous rewards for obedience and faithfulness
2. Our reward is based on God's generosity; 20:15; Romans 9;20-21; Deuteronomy 15:9; Proverbs 23:6; Matthew 6:23; Mark 7:22.
3. Many are called, but few chosen.

JOHN 21:15-25 (See some where else in this book)

1. More than fishing or more than the disciples: We have to love Jesus more than anything or anyone else.
2. Lamb: Acts 20:28; 1 Timothy 4:6; 1 Peter 5:2
3. Sheep: Psalm 79:13; Matthew 10:16; 15:24; 25:33; 26:31
4. Jesus predicted Peter's crucifixion
5. Peter's curiosity or jealousy by asking about the other disciple
6. Authenticity
7. More than written documents ... traditions. ACTS 1:12-14 1. In the house of John Mark, author of the Gospel, several believers, including Jesus' mother and brothers prayed together: 2:1; 7:57.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:28-13:10
1. Apostles: Disciples and others like St. Paul who had seen the risen Lord and witnessed Him: 1:1; 15:9
2. Prophets: Who proclaims God's message for the edification of the Church and predict future events: Acts 11:28; 21: 9-11
3. Love is the most important spiritual gift.
4. Obedience brings blessings: A test of Abraham's faith ... to leave his country, family, and father's house.
5. God's promise to Abraham and his descendants
6. His wife Sara was barren; but Abraham's faith and hope
7. The first act of Abraham when he arrived in Bethel was that he built an altar to the Lord.

DANIEL 1:8-21
1. Daniel and his friends were trained by the king to serve him.
2. Daniel diplomatically dealt with the circumstances and passed the test. ISAIAH 43: 1-7
3. God's presence with His people.

SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
MATTHEW 15:32-39; MARK 8:1-10


1. Three times Jesus fed: a. 5000 with 5 loaves and two fish: John 6:1-15 b. 4000 with 7 loaves and few fish (today's) c. The Last Supper: 12 disciples (one betrayed): Matthew 26:17-30
2. Multitude becoming very great (conventions); should increase, not decrease: church-going the same way.
3. Miracle among the Gentiles in the summer.
4. Jesus' compassion toward the multitude: Philippians 2:5; 1 Corinthians 2:16. They were with Him for three days: Three stands for completeness / wholeness: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit Jesus' concern for the people's problems: 15:32
a. People without leader is like sheep without shepherd: Matthew 9:36-37.
b. Touched the lepor: Mark 1:41
c. Told the widow not to cry: Luke 7:13
d. Wept at the tomb of Lazarus: John 11: 33-35
e. Cried for the city of Jerusalem: Luke 19:4
f. Prayed for those who crucified: Luke 23: 34
g. God of all mercies: 2 Corinthians 1:3
h. Holy Spirit: Romans 8:26. So with hope, put our burden on Him (1 Peter 5:7); forgive the sins of others (Matthew 18:35): and help others ( 1 John 3:17).
5. Some came from afar (8:3): Physically as well as spiritually we are all in this category, not just prodigal son, Mary Magdaline, Zacheus, Paul (Ephesians 2:13). We are nearer through Christ Jesus. If wecome nearer, never send us back hungry: Jesus cured the sick and raised the sick; invited all those who are burden to come for rest; Elijah was told to rise up and eat as he has to go for a long distance. If we don't come nearer, will be tired and weakened and fallen; to come and be partakers of everything including communion. Need endorsement like a check to cash.
7. Tradition to give food after service. Continue if possible.
8. Obstacles for the blessings:
a. Unfavorable circumstances ... in the desert
b. Unfavorable consumers ... big crowd
c. Unfavorable supply ... Not enough food.
9. Be with God (Mark 3:14): Then satisfaction in His presence; God works with us knowing our needs.
10. What kind of supplication and requests we have? James 4:3.
11. Listen and live in holiness and activites; then He will feed us like a good shepherd: Psalm 23.
12. Jesus consulted with the disciples as friends: John 15:15.
13. Disciples couldn't do it. They pointed out a problem. How could feed such a crowd in the wilderness?
14. They approached Jesus for His helping hand. God's servers to do what they are supposed to do: Luke 17:1-10.
15. What do you have? Jesus' question.
16. See what we have; within our community.
17. Jesus praised and thanked God and blessed the bread.
18. Submit everything to Jesus ... multiplies (Job did).
19. When Jesus blessed they ate; they were satisfied, filled and departed in peace.

20. Left over... 7 baskets: Importance of seven.
21. When we grow spiritually, physical needs are minimised; we ask for "daily" bread. Rest of the requests in the Lord's prayer are spiritual. We live not by brad alone: Deuteronomy 8:3.
22. In order not to be tired or exhausted, we have to receive the blessed bread: Holy Communion.

LUKE 17:1-10
1. Guidelines for Christians: Matthew 17:1921; 18:6-7; 21-22; Mark 9:28-29, 42. 2. Do not do anything that would cause another to sin: v. 1-2 2. Seek to correct fellow Christians, if they sin: v.3.
2. Always be quick to forgive when repents: vv. 3-4.
3. Trust God: vv. 5-6 5. Do not be proud when we do our duties: vv. 7-10. MARK 6:30-52
4. Jesus' concern for the welfare of the disciples (privacy: v. 31), on the spiritual ignorance of the people (v.34), and for their hunger: 35-44.
5. The disciples shall serve the needs of the people through Jesus.
6. The serving disciples did more effectively to reach every one with the food: v. 39.
7. Sent followers into danger to test them (v.45): in to the boat.
8. Never leaves in trouble: God's saving presence to Moses (Exodus 33:19; Elijah (1 Kings 19:11).
9. God's reassurance (Abraham 15:1): Do not be afraid.

ACTS 1:15-20
1.Selection of Mathias to replace Judas.
2. Even though Peter denied Jesus (Luke 22:54-62), he was the leader. Peter's sermon to the 120 about Judas who betrayed his master resulted in good response. 3. The failure of Judas was foretold: Psalm 25; 109:8.
3. Love of money leads to all kinds of losses and destruction ... takes away from all goodness.

CORINTHIANS 8:1-6
1. Love must guide our freedom.
2. The gods and lords of the pagans were not real
3. God, the Father, is the source of all things.

EXODUS 30:34-38
1. God wants us to be holy as the incense shall be holy.
2. We shall be happy too, but holiness shall be our priority.

PSALM 20
1. A royal messianic Psalm for spiritual warfare.
2. A petition (vv. 1-5): Five requests of prayer.
3. The assurance of God's answer: vv. 6-8; cf. 1 John 5:14-15. There is greater power in the name of God than in armies of chariots: Zechariah 4:6; Romans 8:1-13.
4. A final cry for help recognizing that God is king (v.9). The battle we face is not ours, it is His. ISAIAH 14:222-27 1. Judgment on Babylon and Assyria

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