Podcasts about Galilean

Today Dot and Cara step into Peter's shoes to explore the weekend that changed everything. From the grief of Good Friday through the waiting on Saturday and then the miracle of Sunday, they reflect on what it means to grieve but also to wait in hope. If you're wrestling with disappointment, disillusionment, or simply not knowing what comes next this Easter, we hope this conversation offers fresh perspective. So grab your journal, a cup of coffee, and your Bible—and lean in with us.Got a question about today's episode or something else you'd like to hear us talk about on the show? Let us know! Episode recap:Start by writing down Luke 22: 31-34 and 59-62 (0:13)Today we are looking at Easter through Peter's eyes (1:46)Peter had a difficult journey after he decided to follow Jesus (6:21)We all find ourselves doing things we never thought we'd do at some point (11:59)God uses Peter's strong will for His purposes (17:41)On Friday, the disciples accepted reality and grieved together (20:35)Grieving is part of embracing where we are (24:00)God has a way of humbling us to make us realize our need for a Savior (26:16)In the waiting, Peter goes back to what he knows - fishing (28:30)You never know when God's going to work the miracle in your life (30:19)When you feel like you're in the waiting, be faithful with what's in front of you (34:00)Godly grief brings you to Sunday (38:30)Whatever Fridays or Saturdays you may be walking in, there is hope because Jesus is life and makes life worth living (41:15)Are you interested in having Dot come and speak to your community? Email us at hello@dotbowen.com.Watch Write this Down! on YouTubeFind Dot Bowen on Instagram and Facebook Scripture Verse:  Luke 22: 31-34 (ESV)  “Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you,[a] that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” Peter said to him, “Lord, I am ready to go with you both to prison and to death.” Jesus said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster will not crow this day, until you deny three times that you know me.Luke 22: 59-62 (ESV) “And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, “Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean.” But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.

At the procession with palms - GospelLuke 19:28-40Jesus proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem.As he drew near to Bethphage and Bethanyat the place called the Mount of Olives,he sent two of his disciples.He said, "Go into the village opposite you,and as you enter it you will find a colt tetheredon which no one has ever sat.Untie it and bring it here.And if anyone should ask you,'Why are you untying it?'you will answer,'The Master has need of it.'"So those who had been sent went offand found everything just as he had told them.And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them,"Why are you untying this colt?"They answered,"The Master has need of it."So they brought it to Jesus,threw their cloaks over the colt,and helped Jesus to mount.As he rode along,the people were spreading their cloaks on the road;and now as he was approaching the slope of the Mount of Olives,the whole multitude of his disciplesbegan to praise God aloud with joyfor all the mighty deeds they had seen.They proclaimed:"Blessed is the king who comesin the name of the Lord.Peace in heavenand glory in the highest."Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him,"Teacher, rebuke your disciples."He said in reply,"I tell you, if they keep silent,the stones will cry out!"At the Mass – Reading IIsaiah 50:4-7The Lord GOD has given mea well-trained tongue,that I might know how to speak to the wearya word that will rouse them.Morning after morninghe opens my ear that I may hear;and I have not rebelled,have not turned back.I gave my back to those who beat me,my cheeks to those who plucked my beard;my face I did not shieldfrom buffets and spitting.The Lord GOD is my help,therefore I am not disgraced;I have set my face like flint,knowing that I shall not be put to shame.Reading 2Philippians 2:6-11Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God,did not regard equality with Godsomething to be grasped.Rather, he emptied himself,taking the form of a slave,coming in human likeness;and found human in appearance,he humbled himself,becoming obedient to the point of death,even death on a cross.Because of this, God greatly exalted himand bestowed on him the namewhich is above every name,that at the name of Jesusevery knee should bend,of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth,and every tongue confess thatJesus Christ is Lord,to the glory of God the Father.GospelLuke 22:14—23:56When the hour came,Jesus took his place at table with the apostles.He said to them,"I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer,for, I tell you, I shall not eat it againuntil there is fulfillment in the kingdom of God."Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and said,"Take this and share it among yourselves;for I tell you that from this time onI shall not drink of the fruit of the vineuntil the kingdom of God comes."Then he took the bread, said the blessing,broke it, and gave it to them, saying,"This is my body, which will be given for you;do this in memory of me."And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying,"This cup is the new covenant in my blood,which will be shed for you."And yet behold, the hand of the one who is to betray meis with me on the table;for the Son of Man indeed goes as it has been determined;but woe to that man by whom he is betrayed."And they began to debate among themselveswho among them would do such a deed.Then an argument broke out among themabout which of them should be regarded as the greatest.He said to them,"The kings of the Gentiles lord it over themand those in authority over them are addressed as 'Benefactors';but among you it shall not be so.Rather, let the greatest among you be as the youngest,and the leader as the servant.For who is greater:the one seated at table or the one who serves?Is it not the one seated at table?I am among you as the one who serves.It is you who have stood by me in my trials;and I confer a kingdom on you,just as my Father has conferred one on me,that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom;and you will sit on thronesjudging the twelve tribes of Israel."Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demandedto sift all of you like wheat,but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail;and once you have turned back,you must strengthen your brothers."He said to him,"Lord, I am prepared to go to prison and to die with you."But he replied,"I tell you, Peter, before the cock crows this day,you will deny three times that you know me."He said to them,"When I sent you forth without a money bag or a sack or sandals,were you in need of anything?""No, nothing, " they replied.He said to them,"But now one who has a money bag should take it,and likewise a sack,and one who does not have a swordshould sell his cloak and buy one.For I tell you that this Scripture must be fulfilled in me,namely, He was counted among the wicked;and indeed what is written about me is coming to fulfillment."Then they said,"Lord, look, there are two swords here."But he replied, "It is enough!"Then going out, he went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives,and the disciples followed him.When he arrived at the place he said to them,"Pray that you may not undergo the test."After withdrawing about a stone's throw from them and kneeling,he prayed, saying, "Father, if you are willing,take this cup away from me;still, not my will but yours be done."And to strengthen him an angel from heaven appeared to him.He was in such agony and he prayed so ferventlythat his sweat became like drops of bloodfalling on the ground.When he rose from prayer and returned to his disciples,he found them sleeping from grief.He said to them, "Why are you sleeping?Get up and pray that you may not undergo the test."While he was still speaking, a crowd approachedand in front was one of the Twelve, a man named Judas.He went up to Jesus to kiss him.Jesus said to him,"Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?"His disciples realized what was about to happen, and they asked,"Lord, shall we strike with a sword?"And one of them struck the high priest's servantand cut off his right ear.But Jesus said in reply,"Stop, no more of this!"Then he touched the servant's ear and healed him.And Jesus said to the chief priests and temple guardsand elders who had come for him,"Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs?Day after day I was with you in the temple area,and you did not seize me;but this is your hour, the time for the power of darkness."After arresting him they led him awayand took him into the house of the high priest;Peter was following at a distance.They lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it,and Peter sat down with them.When a maid saw him seated in the light,she looked intently at him and said,"This man too was with him."But he denied it saying,"Woman, I do not know him."A short while later someone else saw him and said,"You too are one of them";but Peter answered, "My friend, I am not."About an hour later, still another insisted,"Assuredly, this man too was with him,for he also is a Galilean."But Peter said,"My friend, I do not know what you are talking about."Just as he was saying this, the cock crowed,and the Lord turned and looked at Peter;and Peter remembered the word of the Lord,how he had said to him,"Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times."He went out and began to weep bitterly.The men who held Jesus in custody were ridiculing and beating him.They blindfolded him and questioned him, saying,"Prophesy!  Who is it that struck you?"And they reviled him in saying many other things against him.When day came the council of elders of the people met,both chief priests and scribes,and they brought him before their Sanhedrin.They said, "If you are the Christ, tell us, "but he replied to them, "If I tell you, you will not believe,and if I question, you will not respond.But from this time on the Son of Man will be seatedat the right hand of the power of God."They all asked, "Are you then the Son of God?"He replied to them, "You say that I am."Then they said, "What further need have we for testimony?We have heard it from his own mouth."Then the whole assembly of them arose and brought him before Pilate.They brought charges against him, saying,"We found this man misleading our people;he opposes the payment of taxes to Caesarand maintains that he is the Christ, a king."Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?"He said to him in reply, "You say so."Pilate then addressed the chief priests and the crowds,"I find this man not guilty."But they were adamant and said,"He is inciting the people with his teaching throughout all Judea,from Galilee where he began even to here."On hearing this Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean;and upon learning that he was under Herod's jurisdiction,he sent him to Herod who was in Jerusalem at that time.Herod was very glad to see Jesus;he had been wanting to see him for a long time,for he had heard about himand had been hoping to see him perform some sign.He questioned him at length,but he gave him no answer.The chief priests and scribes, meanwhile,stood by accusing him harshly.Herod and his soldiers treated him contemptuously and mocked him,and after clothing him in resplendent garb,he sent him back to Pilate.Herod and Pilate became friends that very day,even though they had been enemies formerly.Pilate then summoned the chief priests, the rulers, and the peopleand said to them, "You brought this man to meand accused him of inciting the people to revolt.I have conducted my investigation in your presenceand have not found this man guiltyof the charges you have brought against him,nor did Herod, for he sent him back to us.So no capital crime has been committed by him.Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him."But all together they shouted out,"Away with this man!Release Barabbas to us."— Now Barabbas had been imprisoned for a rebellionthat had taken place in the city and for murder. —Again Pilate addressed them, still wishing to release Jesus,but they continued their shouting,"Crucify him!  Crucify him!"Pilate addressed them a third time,"What evil has this man done?I found him guilty of no capital crime.Therefore I shall have him flogged and then release him."With loud shouts, however,they persisted in calling for his crucifixion,and their voices prevailed.The verdict of Pilate was that their demand should be granted.So he released the man who had been imprisonedfor rebellion and murder, for whom they asked,and he handed Jesus over to them to deal with as they wished.As they led him awaythey took hold of a certain Simon, a Cyrenian,who was coming in from the country;and after laying the cross on him,they made him carry it behind Jesus.A large crowd of people followed Jesus,including many women who mourned and lamented him.Jesus turned to them and said,"Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me;weep instead for yourselves and for your childrenfor indeed, the days are coming when people will say,'Blessed are the barren,the wombs that never boreand the breasts that never nursed.'At that time people will say to the mountains,'Fall upon us!'and to the hills, 'Cover us!'for if these things are done when the wood is greenwhat will happen when it is dry?"Now two others, both criminals,were led away with him to be executed.When they came to the place called the Skull,they crucified him and the criminals there,one on his right, the other on his left.Then Jesus said,"Father, forgive them, they know not what they do."They divided his garments by casting lots.The people stood by and watched;the rulers, meanwhile, sneered at him and said,"He saved others, let him save himselfif he is the chosen one, the Christ of God."Even the soldiers jeered at him.As they approached to offer him wine they called out,"If you are King of the Jews, save yourself."Above him there was an inscription that read,"This is the King of the Jews."Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying,"Are you not the Christ?Save yourself and us."The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply,"Have you no fear of God,for you are subject to the same condemnation?And indeed, we have been condemned justly,for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes,but this man has done nothing criminal."Then he said,"Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."He replied to him,"Amen, I say to you,today you will be with me in Paradise."It was now about noon and darkness came over the whole landuntil three in the afternoonbecause of an eclipse of the sun.Then the veil of the temple was torn down the middle.Jesus cried out in a loud voice,"Father, into your hands I commend my spirit";and when he had said this he breathed his last.Here all kneel and pause for a short time.The centurion who witnessed what had happened glorified God and said,"This man was innocent beyond doubt."When all the people who had gathered for this spectacle saw what had happened,they returned home beating their breasts;but all his acquaintances stood at a distance,including the women who had followed him from Galileeand saw these events.Now there was a virtuous and righteous man named Joseph who,though he was a member of the council,had not consented to their plan of action.He came from the Jewish town of Arimatheaand was awaiting the kingdom of God.He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.After he had taken the body down,he wrapped it in a linen clothand laid him in a rock-hewn tombin which no one had yet been buried.It was the day of preparation,and the sabbath was about to begin.The women who had come from Galilee with him followed behind,and when they had seen the tomband the way in which his body was laid in it,they returned and prepared spices and perfumed oils.Then they rested on the sabbath according to the commandment.

A sermon for Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025 Luke 19:28-40 After telling a parable to the crowd at Jericho, Jesus went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it.'" So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?" They said, "The Lord needs it." Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, order your disciples to stop." He answered, "I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out."   Luke 22:14-23:56 When the hour for the Passover meal came, Jesus took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. He said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God." Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, "Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes." Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me." And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!" Then they began to ask one another, which one of them it could be who would do this. A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. But he said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. "You are those who have stood by me in my trials; and I confer on you, just as my Father has conferred on me, a kingdom, so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. "Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." And he said to him, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death!" Jesus said, "I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this day, until you have denied three times that you know me." He said to them, "When I sent you out without a purse, bag, or sandals, did you lack anything?" They said, "No, not a thing." He said to them, "But now, the one who has a purse must take it, and likewise a bag. And the one who has no sword must sell his cloak and buy one. For I tell you, this scripture must be fulfilled in me, `And he was counted among the lawless'; and indeed what is written about me is being fulfilled." They said, "Lord, look, here are two swords." He replied, "It is enough." He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. When he reached the place, he said to them, "Pray that you may not come into the time of trial." Then he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, knelt down, and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done." Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength. In his anguish he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground. When he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief, and he said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not come into the time of trial." While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; but Jesus said to him, "Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?" When those who were around him saw what was coming, they asked, "Lord, should we strike with the sword?" Then one of them struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, "No more of this!" And he touched his ear and healed him. Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple police, and the elders who had come for him, "Have you come out with swords and clubs as if I were a bandit? When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness!" Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest's house. But Peter was following at a distance. When they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. Then a servant-girl, seeing him in the firelight, stared at him and said, "This man also was with him." But he denied it, saying, "Woman, I do not know him." A little later someone else, on seeing him, said, "You also are one of them." But Peter said, "Man, I am not!" Then about an hour later still another kept insisting, "Surely this man also was with him; for he is a Galilean." But Peter said, "Man, I do not know what you are talking about!" At that moment, while he was still speaking, the cock crowed. The Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly. Now the men who were holding Jesus began to mock him and beat him; they also blindfolded him and kept asking him, "Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?" They kept heaping many other insults on him. When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, gathered together, and they brought him to their council. They said, "If you are the Messiah, tell us." He replied, "If I tell you, you will not believe; and if I question you, you will not answer. But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God." All of them asked, "Are you, then, the Son of God?" He said to them, "You say that I am." Then they said, "What further testimony do we need? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips!" Then the assembly rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, "We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king." Then Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He answered, "You say so." Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, "I find no basis for an accusation against this man." But they were insistent and said, "He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place." When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies. Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore have him flogged and release him." Then they all shouted out together, "Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!" (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, "Crucify, crucify him!" A third time he said to them, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him." But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished. As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, 'Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.' Then they will begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us'; and to the hills, 'Cover us.' For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?" Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun's light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." Having said this, he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent." And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things. Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council, had not agreed to their plan and action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea, and he was waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been laid. It was the day of Preparation, and the sabbath was beginning. The women who had come with him from Galilee followed, and they saw the tomb and how his body was laid. Then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the sabbath they rested according to the commandment.

Luke 23:1-49   The assembly of the elders of the people rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, "We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king." Then Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He answered, "You say so." Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, "I find no basis for an accusation against this man." But they were insistent and said, "He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place." When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies. Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore have him flogged and release him." Then they all shouted out together, "Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!" (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, "Crucify, crucify him!" A third time he said to them, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him." But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished. As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, 'Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.' Then they will begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us'; and to the hills, 'Cover us.' For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?" Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun's light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." Having said this, he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent." And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.

Pastor Samson's Palm Sunday message centers on Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem as the King who comes in peace, fulfilling prophecy and inviting people to respond while the offer of salvation is still available. Through three key scenes during Holy Week, he highlights how the humble (Galilean crowds), the weak (children), and even the King himself cry out—showing us the importance of public praise, deep personal faith, and a heart for the lost. His challenge to us this Easter season is urgent: cry out to Jesus through personal surrender and baptism, and cry out for Him by boldly sharing the good news because the time is short and the King has come. Listen and be challenged. Support the show

Passion Sunday The Gospel Luke 19:28-40 After telling a parable to the crowd at Jericho, Jesus went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it.'" So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?" They said, "The Lord needs it." Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, order your disciples to stop." He answered, "I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out." The Psalm Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 Confitemini Domino 1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; * his mercy endures for ever. 2 Let Israel now proclaim, * "His mercy endures for ever." 19 Open for me the gates of righteousness; * I will enter them; I will offer thanks to the Lord. 20 "This is the gate of the Lord; * he who is righteous may enter." 21 I will give thanks to you, for you answered me * and have become my salvation. 22 The same stone which the builders rejected * has become the chief cornerstone. 23 This is the Lord's doing, * and it is marvelous in our eyes. 24 On this day the Lord has acted; * we will rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Hosannah, Lord, hosannah! * Lord, send us now success. 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord; * we bless you from the house of the Lord. 27 God is the Lord; he has shined upon us; * form a procession with branches up to the horns of the altar. 28 "You are my God, and I will thank you; * you are my God, and I will exalt you." 29 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; * his mercy endures for ever. at The Liturgy of the Word The Collect Almighty and everliving God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Old Testament Isaiah 50:4-9a The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens-- wakens my ear  to listen as those who are taught. The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious,  I did not turn backward. I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I did not hide my face from insult and spitting. The Lord God helps me; therefore I have not been disgraced; therefore I have set my face like flint, and I know that I shall not be put to shame;  he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? Let us stand up together. Who are my adversaries? Let them confront me. It is the Lord God who helps me; who will declare me guilty? The Psalm Psalm 31:9-16 In te, Domine, speravi 9 Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in trouble; * my eye is consumed with sorrow, and also my throat and my belly. 10 For my life is wasted with grief, and my years with sighing; * my strength fails me because of affliction, and my bones are consumed. 11 I have become a reproach to all my enemies and even to my neighbors, a dismay to those of my acquaintance; * when they see me in the street they avoid me. 12 I am forgotten like a dead man, out of mind; * I am as useless as a broken pot. 13 For I have heard the whispering of the crowd; fear is all around; * they put their heads together against me; they plot to take my life. 14 But as for me, I have trusted in you, O Lord. * I have said, "You are my God. 15 My times are in your hand; * rescue me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me. 16 Make your face to shine upon your servant, * and in your loving-kindness save me." The Epistle Philippians 2:5-11 Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God  as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave,  being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself  and became obedient to the point of death--  even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name  that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend,  in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,  to the glory of God the Father. The Gospel Luke 22:14-23:56 When the hour for the Passover meal came, Jesus took his place at the table, and the apostles with him. He said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God." Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he said, "Take this and divide it among yourselves; for I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes." Then he took a loaf of bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me." And he did the same with the cup after supper, saying, "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. But see, the one who betrays me is with me, and his hand is on the table. For the Son of Man is going as it has been determined, but woe to that one by whom he is betrayed!" Then they began to ask one another, which one of them it could be who would do this. A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the greatest. But he said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. "You are those who have stood by me in my trials; and I confer on you, just as my Father has conferred on me, a kingdom, so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel. "Simon, Simon, listen! Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your own faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." And he said to him, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death!" Jesus said, "I tell you, Peter, the cock will not crow this day, until you have denied three times that you know me." He said to them, "When I sent you out without a purse, bag, or sandals, did you lack anything?" They said, "No, not a thing." He said to them, "But now, the one who has a purse must take it, and likewise a bag. And the one who has no sword must sell his cloak and buy one. For I tell you, this scripture must be fulfilled in me, `And he was counted among the lawless'; and indeed what is written about me is being fulfilled." They said, "Lord, look, here are two swords." He replied, "It is enough." He came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives; and the disciples followed him. When he reached the place, he said to them, "Pray that you may not come into the time of trial." Then he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, knelt down, and prayed, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done." Then an angel from heaven appeared to him and gave him strength. In his anguish he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down on the ground. When he got up from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping because of grief, and he said to them, "Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not come into the time of trial." While he was still speaking, suddenly a crowd came, and the one called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him; but Jesus said to him, "Judas, is it with a kiss that you are betraying the Son of Man?" When those who were around him saw what was coming, they asked, "Lord, should we strike with the sword?" Then one of them struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, "No more of this!" And he touched his ear and healed him. Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple police, and the elders who had come for him, "Have you come out with swords and clubs as if I were a bandit? When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness!" Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest's house. But Peter was following at a distance. When they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. Then a servant-girl, seeing him in the firelight, stared at him and said, "This man also was with him." But he denied it, saying, "Woman, I do not know him." A little later someone else, on seeing him, said, "You also are one of them." But Peter said, "Man, I am not!" Then about an hour later still another kept insisting, "Surely this man also was with him; for he is a Galilean." But Peter said, "Man, I do not know what you are talking about!" At that moment, while he was still speaking, the cock crowed. The Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said to him, "Before the cock crows today, you will deny me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly. Now the men who were holding Jesus began to mock him and beat him; they also blindfolded him and kept asking him, "Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?" They kept heaping many other insults on him. When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people, both chief priests and scribes, gathered together, and they brought him to their council. They said, "If you are the Messiah, tell us." He replied, "If I tell you, you will not believe; and if I question you, you will not answer. But from now on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God." All of them asked, "Are you, then, the Son of God?" He said to them, "You say that I am." Then they said, "What further testimony do we need? We have heard it ourselves from his own lips!" Then the assembly rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, "We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king." Then Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He answered, "You say so." Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, "I find no basis for an accusation against this man." But they were insistent and said, "He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place." When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies. Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore have him flogged and release him." Then they all shouted out together, "Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!" (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, "Crucify, crucify him!" A third time he said to them, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him." But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished. As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, 'Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.' Then they will begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us'; and to the hills, 'Cover us.' For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?" Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun's light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." Having said this, he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent." And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things. Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council, had not agreed to their plan and action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea, and he was waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had ever been laid. It was the day of Preparation, and the sabbath was beginning. The women who had come with him from Galilee followed, and they saw the tomb and how his body was laid. Then they returned, and prepared spices and ointments. On the sabbath they rested according to the commandment. or Luke 23:1-49 The assembly of the elders of the people rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, "We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king." Then Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He answered, "You say so." Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, "I find no basis for an accusation against this man." But they were insistent and said, "He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place." When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies. Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore have him flogged and release him." Then they all shouted out together, "Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!" (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, "Crucify, crucify him!" A third time he said to them, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him." But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished. As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, 'Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.' Then they will begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us'; and to the hills, 'Cover us.' For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?" Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him. When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews." One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise." It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun's light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." Having said this, he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent." And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.

A Church On A Mission - Acts 1:8 & Acts 2:42Isn't it incredible to watch a great plan come together? The careful planning, coordination, and execution—when everything falls into place, it's truly something to behold.God, the Master Architect, has been unfolding His great plan of redemption since the beginning of time, working through every generation to reconcile humanity to Himself through the finished work of Christ. It's a story of His amazing grace, bringing salvation to the world.Before His ascension, Jesus gave His disciples two crucial commands—instructions that would define their mission and shape history. It was a global calling, an enormous task given to a handful of Galilean hillbillies, ordinary men from a small corner of the earth in Palestine.How could they possibly accomplish it?Join us for our study in the book of Acts, as we witness a church on a mission, boldly fulfilling Christ's command to go into all the world bearing witness to the risen Christ and making disciples of all nations.

Have you ever felt the call to follow, even when the path ahead seems uncertain? In John 21:19, Jesus calls Peter to follow Him, knowing it would lead to challenges, sacrifice, and ultimately glorifying God. This same call echoes to us today in Hong Kong—a city bustling with opportunities yet grappling with its own trials. As we navigate life's uncertainties—whether through societal changes, personal struggles, or moments of doubt—Jesus' invitation remains constant: Follow Me. It's a call to trust Him fully, to walk in faith even when the road is hard, and to live a life that reflects His love and grace. This Easter season, we are reminded that following Jesus isn't just about personal faith—it's about stepping into our communities with love and service. If you are new to Community Church, WELCOME! We would love to get to know you. Please fill in the following form and we look forward to connecting with you: https://bit.ly/cc-new-connect You can find all timely and relevant links from this service on https://bit.ly/cc-links You can also find out more about us at https://communitychurch.hk/ ================ This Week's Scripture: // Key Passages // Luke 9:18-20: Once when Jesus was praying in private and his disciples were with him, he asked them, ‘Who do the crowds say I am?' They replied, ‘Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, that one of the prophets of long ago has come back to life.' ‘But what about you?' he asked. ‘Who do you say I am?' Peter answered, ‘God's Messiah.' Luke 22:54-62: Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. A servant-girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, ‘This man was with him.' But he denied it. ‘Woman, I don't know him,' he said. A little later someone else saw him and said, ‘You also are one of them.'‘Man, I am not!' Peter replied. About an hour later another asserted, ‘Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.' Peter replied, ‘Man, I don't know what you're talking about!' Just as he was speaking, the cock crowed.  The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: ‘Before the cock crows today, you will disown me three times.' And he went outside and wept bitterly. John 21:15-19: When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?' ‘Yes, Lord,' he said, ‘you know that I love you.' Jesus said, ‘Feed my lambs.' Again Jesus said, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?'He answered, ‘Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.'Jesus said, ‘Take care of my sheep.' The third time he said to him, ‘Simon son of John, do you love me?' Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?' He said, ‘Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.' Jesus said, ‘Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.' Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, ‘Follow me!'

John 4:43-54,43 After the two days he departed for Galilee. 44 (For Jesus himself had testified that a prophet has no honor in his own hometown.) 45 So when he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the feast. For they too had gone to the feast.46 So he came again to Cana in Galilee, where he had made the water wine. And at Capernaum there was an official whose son was ill. 47 When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. 48 So Jesus said to him, “Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.” 49 The official said to him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” 50 Jesus said to him, “Go; your son will live.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way. 51 As he was going down, his servants met him and told him that his son was recovering. 52 So he asked them the hour when he began to get better, and they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.” 53 The father knew that was the hour when Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live.” And he himself believed, and all his household. 54 This was now the second sign that Jesus did when he had come from Judea to Galilee. To get started this morning I want to tell you the first thing I told our middle school baseball team this past week: it's that the most important thing in your life is your faith in Jesus Christ.Now there's a lot of important things in life — there's big things, critical things — but the most important thing is your continued, abiding, daily faith in Jesus, and that's what I want to talk about this morning, because that's the main theme in our passage.We've already said (and we're gonna keep saying) that John's purpose in this Gospel is that we believe in Jesus. John cares a lot about our faith and the nature of true faith — and that comes through in this story, verses 43–54. So for today's sermon, we're gonna look at these verses and I want to show you three aspects about the nature of true faith. And these are aspects that, as we look at them, we should evaluate our own faith in their light. Here's the first:1. True faith goes deeper than gawking at signs and wonders. This is the broader message coming through in this whole section and I know it's gonna make sense to you, but I need you to track with me, okay? There's a lot of details here, so get ready. We're gonna start by looking at verse 43. “After the two days he [Jesus] left for Galilee.”Now where did he leave from? Where has Jesus been (that we've seen) over the last couple of Sundays? Samaria.So Jesus has now left Samaria to go to Galilee, which means we need to do a little geography check-in for a minute. In ancient Israel there were three regions stacked on top of one another: Galilee in the north, then Samaria, then Judea. Let's try to follow where Jesus has been: Remember Chapter 2 starts and Jesus is in Galilee, at the wedding at Cana; then, in 2:13, he goes to Jerusalem to go to the temple, which is in Judea (south); then in Chapter 4, verse 3, “[Jesus] left Judea and departed again for Galilee” (going north, and what's in the middle of Judea and Galilee? Samaria) … So Chapter 4, verse 4: “[Jesus] had to pass through Samaria” (that's what we've seen in Chapter 4) — Jesus spent two days in Samaria, but now he's back on the road to Galilee.And Galilee is where he's from. Nazareth is in Galilee, and Jesus grew up in Nazareth, but notice what John includes for us in verse 44. This is a little note in the text just for us, verse 44. Everybody look at verse 44:“Now Jesus himself had pointed out that a prophet has no honor in his own country.”That phrase “own country” is literally the word “fatherland” — it's another way to say “hometown,” and in this case, it's not talking about Galilee specifically, but it's talking about the land of Jewish people — which includes both Galilee and Judea. Basically, this means not Samaria. The land of the Samaritans is not Jesus's “own country” — but the land of Jewish people is. That's the point. And so we're set up here to see a contrast between the way Jesus is treated by his own people in his own country and the way he was just received in Samaria (not his country). And verse 44 would suggest that the difference is going to be a negative response in Galilee. “No honor,” verse 44 says.Why the Welcome?Now look at verse 45. It's just the next verse. You're right there. Verse 45: “So [or therefore] when he came to Galilee [his own country], the Galileans welcomed him …”Now wait a minute! Verse 44 just said no honor in his own country. Verse 45 says his own country welcomed him. How does that make sense?Well, it has to do with why they welcomed him. We gotta keep reading, verse 45: “the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the feast. For they too had gone to the feast.”Which means they had seen Jesus bring the mayhem. Remember that in Chapter 2? They saw him pushing over tables and cracking a whip — it was a scene! He turned some heads. He got their attention. They wanna see more of that!Now, skip down to verse 48. In verse 48, Jesus is speaking to this official who's son was sick — we're about to get there — but first I want you to see this part. Jesus is talking to this official, but when he says “you” in verse 48, it's plural. Jesus is actually talking about the Galileans overall. He's speaking to the official in verse 48, but he's saying: “Unless y'all [unless all you Galileans, Jewish people, my people] — Unless y'all see signs and wonders y'all will not believe.” That's their problem. Now how is that different from Samaria? Samaria Was DifferentRemember there's supposed to be a contrast between Jesus's own country and where he's just been in Samaria. So then, what was it like in Samaria? Fruitful! People believed! It started with the Samaritan woman who believed in Jesus and then by verse 41 a whole crowd of Samaritans believed in Jesus, but the details here are really important. We gotta pay attention to this. I want you to see this in verse 41. Look back up, Chapter 4, verse 41:“And many more [Samaritans] believed [in Jesus] because of his word.”So they believed in Jesus because of his what? Word.That's the contrast. Jesus's own country, his own people, they just wanna see a spectacle. They wanna light show. Give me that head-turnin' buzz-worthy drama! Their faith is as true as a roller-coaster ride is eternal.But the Samaritans … there was nothing flashy there at all. It started with a conversation at a well at noon. Yet the Samaritans believed Jesus because of his word.And we're supposed to see here: that is true faith! It goes much deeper than gawking at signs and wonders Jesus can do, but it's about Jesus himself. Because what he gives us in his word is himself.Look, I don't know what all of you think faith in Jesus is, but it might be much simpler and deeper than you imagined — most basically, faith in Jesus is taking Jesus at his word. What he says is … because of who he is. So what you do with his word is what you do with him. Here's the second aspect we see about true faith …2. True faith often emerges among real-life needs.Now we're gonna talk about this official in verse 46. Jesus is back in Cana, in Galilee, and verse 46 says,46 … And at Capernaum there was an official whose son was ill. 47 When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked [or begged] him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death.We don't know too much about this official — just they that he was a royal official (that's what that word means — most likely he worked under Herod); so we know that, and we know he was a man; and we know he was a father who lived in Capernaum where his son was sick. Capernaum was around 25 miles east of Cana, by the Sea of Galilee, and so this official's travel from Capernaum to Cana would not have been easy. It would have been 25 miles uphill. And that helps us understand more his request. It was not a mere “Hey, Jesus, if you got a minute, would you consider helping me?”That word translated “ask” in verse 47 has already been used twice in John Chapter 4. First, in verse 31, when the disciples urged Jesus to eat, that word for “urge” is the same word translated “ask” here in verse 47. It shows up again in verse 40, when the Samaritans “asked” Jesus to stay with them for a couple more days. They really wanted Jesus to stay. So this word means an earnest petition. Like begging. Which means we should imagine this official, wearied from his journey, finally seeing Jesus, and he pleads with him to heal his son who is on his deathbed.And what does Jesus do? He takes this moment as an opportunity to address the problem of shallow faith. This official is desperate, and it's almost like Jesus looks over him, for the sake of everyone else, all of Galilee, and he says, “Y'all are all about the signs and wonders, and that's not truth faith.”The Locked-In DadIt's like Jesus starts going all “rabbi” on this guy (and whoever else is listening) — Jesus is teaching about the nature of true faith. This is important! Listen up! And notice how this guy replies in verse 49. He's ‘super intrigued' by what Jesus says! He's been ‘waiting his whole life for this theological conversation' — is that what we see? No. Jesus says what he says about faith, and the man says back to him: “Sir, come down before my child dies.”This official is locked in on one thing. His child is sick. And the word for “child” in verse 49 is different from the word “son” used in verse 47. A son can be any age — every man in this room is a son — but that word “child” means little child. It's an affectionate term.So here's what's going on: This man comes to Jesus because he wants his son to be healed; Jesus teaches about true faith; the man replies: Sir, if you don't come now my little child will die.And that is a clue for us that this official is not really after signs and wonders. He's not looking for a show. He's not motivated by the thrill of entertainment. He just loves his little boy, that's all. That Desperate EnergyI think all the parents in here could put ourselves in this official's shoes. We get this — we love our children, don't we? But as I worked on this passage, I thought especially about parents whose children have been terribly sick. And there are more than a few parents in our church who have been there. We pray often for them. And I thought of Logan and Stacy Brennecke.The Brenneckes have five children, and they've experienced suffering as parents. In 2014 they lost their daughter at six days old, and today their youngest son, Theo, who is three, has been on our prayer list his whole life so far. He was born with some complications — He's had four surgeries, including a kidney transplant. He's had countless procedures, worked with 12 different specialists, and in the last two years he's been in the hospital about 100 days. And praise God, today he's doing well! But I was able to connect with Logan and Stacy this week because I wanted just to hear more about their experience in light of this passage.In hearing from them, Stacy talked about one of the hardest parts in their experience is being told there's nothing you can do to make your child well. She called the feeling a “desperate energy.” She's been there more than once, but about one experience, Stacy said, I felt claustrophobic — I was stuck in a tight space, unable to get out but frantically trying to. I would've done anything, gone anywhere, acted the fool in front of anybody, if it would just help my child.See, that's where this official was in this story. He was at home, in Capernaum, a father by his little son's bedside, stuck with that desperate energy. And then someone told him, “Sir, Jesus of Nazareth has come back.”In verse 47 of this story we don't know anything about this official's faith, just that he heard Jesus was back — this Jesus who was different, this Jesus who had caused that scene in Jerusalem, who claimed to be the Messiah. For this father, it's only hearsay, but what if there's a chance?! So he goes. He goes to Jesus. He meets Jesus. He pleads with Jesus, and in verse 50 Jesus replies: “Go; your son will live.”And what does it say at the end of verse 50? You gotta see this. Verse 50, after Jesus says “Your son will live,” we read: “The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went on his way.”So for this Galilean, he has faith like the Samaritans did. Because he believed Jesus's word. Where We LiveAnd we might think, wait a minute. He didn't come to Jesus because he wanted Jesus, he came to Jesus because he wanted his son to live. And that's right, but, the initial reason why he came to Jesus should not make us continue to question the sincerity of this man's faith. The fact that he wanted his child to live just means he's a real person. He lives where we do. He lives in real life, with real needs and longings and love for his children. Get this: true faith emerges from this, from real life.Understand that a lot of times what comes first is not “standing amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene,” but it's falling desperate before him because you need help. Often it's real-life stuff that leads us to Jesus. We know this in our stories.For a lot of us, we were living our lives, doing our own thing, and then something went sideways. Living got hard. We were leveled by a need and we found ourselves in a mess, and somewhere in that mess we heard about Jesus — or we remembered Jesus — and we thought, “Maybe he can help.” And guess what? He can.See, a lot of us started by looking for answers over here, and we ended up finding Jesus, and that's okay. This gets to something super important when it comes to faith: listen, it's not how you start; it's how you finish.Which means two things:One, if you're here this morning and you're currently in a mess, if you're in a desperate situation and you're not really seeking Jesus but you find yourselves here, I want you to know that's not strange. That's how it goes. You don't have to have your life all figured out first. You don't have to have your “theological Ps and Qs” in order. Most of the time, true faith emerges among real-life needs. You're in real life, and then you meet Jesus, and then you take Jesus at his word. And this is his word to you this morning — listen, this is the gospel word of Jesus to you — he says:“Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”I love you. I died for you, if you come to me. I will forgive you all of your sins and I will make you a child of God. Wherever it is you're coming from this morning, right now you can take Jesus at his word.Second, if you've trusted in Jesus in the past, which is a lot of us, the question today is, Do you trust him now? Believe him now. Keep taking him at his word! And if at times it seems like your faith is failing, if your trust dwindles, you can pray what another desperate father once prayed, Mark 9:24,“I believe; help my unbelief!”And Jesus will. True faith often emerges among real-life needs. 3. True faith rests in Jesus who is powerful and kind. This man believed Jesus's word and went on his way back to Capernaum, and on his way back his servants met him on the road. They had good news. They told him that his son was alive. He's recovering. And the man asked them what time his son started to recover. (Which is fascinating. This is dramatic irony. As readers, we know why he's asking this question, but his servants don't know). They tell him, His fever broke yesterday at 1pm. And the father knew! That's when Jesus said the words “Your son will live.”So verse 53 says,“And he himself believed, and all his household.” So this man's initial, simple faith is now followed by an abiding faith that spreads. His whole household believed. Like with the Samaritan woman, true faith gets shared. Who Our Faith Rests InBut I want to end here by saying more about who our faith rests in. I want you to notice the power and kindness of Jesus in this passage.First, his power. All he had to do was say the word. The very moment Jesus said “Your son will live,” 25 miles away the fever broke. Look, he who commands the wind and the waves also has power over sickness. Jesus has power over fevers and kidneys and MCLs and you name it. Jesus is powerful.And also Jesus is kind. Notice a change that happens in this story. This official, who is a father, is not actually called a father until verse 53.First, it's formal. He's an official from Capernaum. He's a Galilean. Then he's called a man. But by the end of the story, in verse 53, for the first time he's called “the father.”And I think this shows us the kindness of Jesus to meet all of us where we are. We come to him in our need and he meets us as those who are needy. Which does not mean, listen, this does not mean he always gives us the healing we want. Sometimes he doesn't give us the Yes we want in that moment, but, he always gives us himself. And he helps us. Sometimes that means he just has to carry us. Be near to us. If he doesn't make the pain go away, he will bring you through the pain. He's kind. He's kind. Jesus is kind.And I can't help but think that Jesus's kindness to this father shows that Jesus must know something about a father's love for his son. Jesus doesn't know this because Jesus was a father — he wasn't — but he was a son — he is a Son, the beloved Son of God the Father. And the Father's love for Jesus is so glorious that Jesus wants us to know what it's like (see John 17:24). That's why he went to the cross.And that's what brings us to the Table.The TableAt the cross, Jesus game himself for us to make us the children of God, and at this table we remember that. And we come here to rest in him. We come here to remember his death for us, and his word to us: We are loved. In him we are forgiven. We are children of God. That's why this Table is for Christians. This table is for everyone who has put their faith in Jesus. And if that's not you yet, you can just pass the elements down the row, but don't let the moment pass. As we're hearing and singing this song, I invite you to believe in Jesus. Put your faith in him. And if you'd like, I'd love to talk to you more about that after the service.Now, to those who trust in Jesus, let's rest in him and give him thanks…

We live in a complicated world; that may be an understatement. Following Jesus in this world is getting more complicated as time marches on. We have had many opportunities this Lenten season to be honest about how as we participate with the evil one we are adding to the confusion in this world. Yet, many of us find ourselves asking God why he isn't doing anything about it. This morning as we look at Jesus before Pilate we will explore the same question, “Jesus, why don't you do anything about it?!”. Luke 23:1-25 (ESV)Then the whole company of them arose and brought him before Pilate. And they began to accuse him, saying, “We found this man misleading our nation and forbidding us to give tribute to Caesar, and saying that he himself is Christ, a king.” And Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he answered him, “You have said so.” Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, “I find no guilt in this man.” But they were urgent, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee even to this place.”When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he belonged to Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him over to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had long desired to see him, because he had heard about him, and he was hoping to see some sign done by him. So he questioned him at some length, but he made no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. And Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him. Then, arraying him in splendid clothing, he sent him back to Pilate. And Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day, for before this they had been at enmity with each other.Pilate then called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was misleading the people. And after examining him before you, behold, I did not find this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither did Herod, for he sent him back to us. Look, nothing deserving death has been done by him. I will therefore punish and release him.”But they all cried out together, “Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas”— a man who had been thrown into prison for an insurrection started in the city and for murder. Pilate addressed them once more, desiring to release Jesus, but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!” A third time he said to them, “Why? What evil has he done? I have found in him no guilt deserving death. I will therefore punish and release him.” But they were urgent, demanding with loud cries that he should be crucified. And their voices prevailed. So Pilate decided that their demand should be granted. He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, for whom they asked, but he delivered Jesus over to their will.

This message was delivered March 23, 2025 at Amity UCC in Meyersdale, PA Text: Luke 13:1-9

Do you view repentance as a gift or a burden? In this sermon, we explore the liberating truth that repentance is another way that God shows us his grace. The unsettling story of Pilate mixing Galilean blood with temple sacrifices sets the stage for Jesus' words in Luke 13, shifting our focus from others' sins to our own need for repentance. Meanwhile, the parable of a barren fig tree, spared by a patient gardener, showcases God's enduring mercy. Together, these narratives unveil repentance as a gift that allows us to rest in Jesus' love.Vicar Behm's sermon preached at Faith on March 23, 2025.Intro/Outro Music: “Depth of Field” by David Hilowitz

And they led Jesus to the high priest. And all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes came together. And Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he was sitting with the guards and warming himself at the fire. Now the chief priests and the whole Council were seeking testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none. For many bore false witness against him, but their testimony did not agree. And some stood up and bore false witness against him, saying, “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.'” Yet even about this their testimony did not agree. And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?” But he remained silent and made no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” And Jesus said, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” And the high priest tore his garments and said, “What further witnesses do we need? You have heard his blasphemy. What is your decision?” And they all condemned him as deserving death. And some began to spit on him and to cover his face and to strike him, saying to him, “Prophesy!” And the guards received him with blows.And as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came, and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.” But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you mean.” And he went out into the gateway and the rooster crowed. And the servant girl saw him and began again to say to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” But again he denied it. And after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, “Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” But he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.(English Standard Version)

In Luke 11 we start with a record of, what is termed, the Lord's Prayer. It is a model prayer, not a mantra to be repeated without thought. It commenced with an acknowledgement of the Father's awe inspiring status. The follows petitions for the Almighty's will to be on earth, as it is in heaven. The kingdom will come when Messiah returns in glory. Lastly are personal petitions for forgiveness and for food. The prayer closed with an acclaim for the praise, greatness and glory of our Sovereign. Then followed generosity among friends and our need to be seekers, askers and knockers on doors. Our Father is generous and gives only benefits to His children. Upon curing a deaf mute Jesus is accused of doing it by a demon power Beel-zebul – the Lord of the dung heap. This was equivalent to blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Jesus told them that if he was casting out diseases by a demonic power then he would be a destroyer of the kingdom of the enemy. No, like the magicians of Egypt at the time of Moses were forced to acknowledge- “this was the finger of God”. A parable of the need to fill with good after sweeping out evil followed. True happiness lay in hearing and keeping the Word of God. The sign of Jonah was given them. There is more to this sign than would first seem apparent. 1) Jonah from Gath-Hepher was from Galilee (John 7 verses 52 verse 2) Jonah means ‘dove' the evident sign at Jesus' baptism; 3) the overwhelming majority of Jesus' disciples were Galilean as Isaiah 9 predicted; 4) Jonah spent three nights in the belly of hell inside the great fish before being symbolically resurrected. Then we are told to be single minded seekers. Woes upon the Pharisees and the Lawyers follow, because of their hypocrisy. Rather than having the effect of curtailing them they sought even more to provoke our Lord.

In Luke 11 we start with a record of, what is termed, the Lord's Prayer. It is a model prayer, not a mantra to be repeated without thought. It commenced with an acknowledgement of the Father's awe inspiring status. The follows petitions for the Almighty's will to be on earth, as it is in heaven. The kingdom will come when Messiah returns in glory. Lastly are personal petitions for forgiveness and for food. The prayer closed with an acclaim for the praise, greatness and glory of our Sovereign. Then followed generosity among friends and our need to be seekers, askers and knockers on doors. Our Father is generous and gives only benefits to His children. Upon curing a deaf mute Jesus is accused of doing it by a demon power Beel-zebul – the Lord of the dung heap. This was equivalent to blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Jesus told them that if he was casting out diseases by a demonic power then he would be a destroyer of the kingdom of the enemy. No, like the magicians of Egypt at the time of Moses were forced to acknowledge- “this was the finger of God”. A parable of the need to fill with good after sweeping out evil followed. True happiness lay in hearing and keeping the Word of God. The sign of Jonah was given them. There is more to this sign than would first seem apparent. 1) Jonah from Gath-Hepher was from Galilee (John 7 verses 52 verse 2) Jonah means ‘dove' the evident sign at Jesus' baptism; 3) the overwhelming majority of Jesus' disciples were Galilean as Isaiah 9 predicted; 4) Jonah spent three nights in the belly of hell inside the great fish before being symbolically resurrected. Then we are told to be single minded seekers. Woes upon the Pharisees and the Lawyers follow, because of their hypocrisy. Rather than having the effect of curtailing them they sought even more to provoke our Lord.

Luke 10 says that the Lord Jesus appoints seventy emissaries to spread the gospel message. These men were sent out two by two so as to support each other. Although they carry the message only within the confines of the land it was symbolic of the Gospel being taken to all the nations from Israel (compare Genesis 10 and Deuteronomy 32 verse 8). Once again these ambassadors were to take the minimum of provisions and to rely on faithful help. Any person scorning them would bare their condemnation. Three such Galilean cities are named and their inexcusable behaviour cataloged. The seventy returned to Jesus with triumphant tales. Christ indicates that their reports were a token of the triumph of Christ's kingdom over those of this world (compare with Revelation 11 verse 15). The Lord then reveals that the Father's will can only be understood by those receiving the kingdom message with a child-like trust. Let us take great heed to that lesson. The parable of the Good Samaritan, which is unique in Luke, portrays the perils and pitiful attitudes of those who should have understood their role among God's people. Instead it is the Samaritan, whose care was evident for the man who had fallen among thieves. Jesus is the Samaritan of the parable and he will recompense those who have taken care of the Father's people. The oil and wine was the healing balm of the Gospel message. The chapter concludes with a disagreement between Martha and Mary about what is most necessary. Both the roles of these two sisters are essential, but the most important of all is to sit at our Lord's feet and to learn from Jesus.

Luke 10 says that the Lord Jesus appoints seventy emissaries to spread the gospel message. These men were sent out two by two so as to support each other. Although they carry the message only within the confines of the land it was symbolic of the Gospel being taken to all the nations from Israel (compare Genesis 10 and Deuteronomy 32 verse 8). Once again these ambassadors were to take the minimum of provisions and to rely on faithful help. Any person scorning them would bare their condemnation. Three such Galilean cities are named and their inexcusable behaviour cataloged. The seventy returned to Jesus with triumphant tales. Christ indicates that their reports were a token of the triumph of Christ's kingdom over those of this world (compare with Revelation 11 verse 15). The Lord then reveals that the Father's will can only be understood by those receiving the kingdom message with a child-like trust. Let us take great heed to that lesson. The parable of the Good Samaritan, which is unique in Luke, portrays the perils and pitiful attitudes of those who should have understood their role among God's people. Instead it is the Samaritan, whose care was evident for the man who had fallen among thieves. Jesus is the Samaritan of the parable and he will recompense those who have taken care of the Father's people. The oil and wine was the healing balm of the Gospel message. The chapter concludes with a disagreement between Martha and Mary about what is most necessary. Both the roles of these two sisters are essential, but the most important of all is to sit at our Lord's feet and to learn from Jesus.

Lent is a season for us to be honest about our participation in the evil that has infected this world like cancer. As we prepare ourselves for the celebration of Easter morning, we must pause and face the reality that our good-willed intentions to faithfully follow Jesus in life and death often go awry; sadly, very quickly. Why is that so? Is our faith really that fickle, or is there something or someone behind the scenes pulling the strings?Luke 22:39–62 (ESV)And he came out and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. And when he came to the place, he said to them, “Pray that you may not enter into temptation.” And he withdrew from them about a stone's throw, and knelt down and prayed, saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him. And being in agony he prayed more earnestly; and his sweat became like great drops of blood falling down to the ground. And when he rose from prayer, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping for sorrow, and he said to them, “Why are you sleeping? Rise and pray that you may not enter into temptation.”While he was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He drew near to Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus said to him, “Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” And when those who were around him saw what would follow, they said, “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?” And one of them struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him. Then Jesus said to the chief priests and officers of the temple and elders, who had come out against him, “Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs? When I was with you day after day in the temple, you did not lay hands on me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.”Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest's house, and Peter was following at a distance. And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them. Then a servant girl, seeing him as he sat in the light and looking closely at him, said, “This man also was with him.” But he denied it, saying, “Woman, I do not know him.” And a little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” But Peter said, “Man, I am not.” And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, “Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean.” But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.

Jesus emerged from his time in the wilderness, having cast aside a crafty enemy, to began his Galilean ministry. He went out into the whole countryside, preaching to everyone, everywhere. Many praised his gracious manner and listened with rapt attention as he spoke in the synagogue. Let's stop there. Even though they recognized him as a home-town boy, the listeners took issue with his words. "No thanks", they said, and tried to facilitate his demise (for lack of a better phrase). Jesus went on his way, preaching and healing, and so began a history-altering, kingdom-building ministry. 

A deep dive into the four Galilean moons of Jupiter: Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto.

A verse by verse study through the book of Luke with Pastor Kevin Edwards of Calvary Chapel Clayton, NC. https://www.calvaryclayton.com

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Not My Job Not My Joba sermon by Rev. J. Christy Ramsey DOWNLOAD A LIVE RECORDING Audio from worship at the 10 AM Worship Service January 26, 2025for ZOOM with Lee Vining Presbyterian Churchedited from a flawless transcription made by edigitaltranscriptions all errors are mine. John 2:1-11 Sermons also available free on iTunes Should the church be run like a business? People tell me that, throughout my career in the ministry in 40 years, and they come in, you know, church has to be run like a business. And they usually don’t know that I have a business administration degree from Grove City College with cum laude. So they think this is news to me, God bless ‘em. And I was wondering, you know, when I’m in a more festive mood, with is almost always, I admit it is a problem, I ask them, well, if church is run like a business, what’s its product? I mean, what is it selling? I mean, that’s basic business that you know your product. What’s a product? You know, it gives them pause because, I mean, you all think of that, I ain’t going to put you on the spot because, you know, it’s like being in the front row at a comedy club, you know. You know you’re going to get picked on if there’s only, like, six of you. So don’t answer out. I’m not putting you on the spot. But what would you say is the church’s business? What’s the product? What are we making? Oh, you’re going to – you’re going to – you’re, yeah, are we making Christians. That’s one of the A-plus answers. I would go A-plus on Christians, disciples, yeah. You know, others would say, you know, Laurie, others would say, well, you’re making worship services. You know, some people say that. Or, well, you’ve got to maintain the building, you know. Or some people would say, you know, you’re feeding the hungry, and Matthew 25, and the thirsty, and you’re doing that stuff. And I don’t know if you’d get agreement from everyone in a room about what the product is for the church, if it was run like a business. And then it gets even more complicated because then you’ve got to say, okay, we’ve got a product, maybe. You would say, well, who’s our customer? What’s our target audience? Who are we working for? And I’m sure Laurie knows the answer. It’s always God. God’s always the correct answer in any children’s message or sermon. Well, some people say God’s the customer. Okay. Other people would say, well, the people who pay the bills. You’ve got to keep them happy. You’ve got to keep the people happy who’re paying the bills or you don’t have a church. They’re the customer. Well, sure, God, but you know, oh, I’ve got to keep the money folks happy. Some people would say that. Some people say, well, it’s the church board. I mean, I don’t know if anybody would say that. Maybe one or two would say you’ve got to go with the – or maybe a couple would say the pastor has to be happy. That’s rare, but that could happen. I’m sure that’s happened. You know, who are you trying to please? Who are you working for? Who’s the customer? That’s a difficult one. What if they went beyond that and said, okay, well, now, who owns the business? You know? Who? Is it a nonprofit? That’s problematic in a church, if you don’t have profits. If you do, well, what’s the business? What is that customer? Who owns it? Who is in charge of it? I mean, the Presbyterians have gone all the way up to the Supreme Court about who owns the church. And the Supreme Court, way back, oh, ‘70s, said, well, that PCUSA owns the church, but please make it more clear in your constitution. So we’ve been – we struggle with that in reality of who owns the business of the business? That’s important, too. Well, you know, we shouldn’t be surprised that we have these questions and answers, and that we can’t get consensus and move around because even Jesus Christ had trouble, as we saw here, skipping over the dynamic of why you’re calling your mother “women,” that doesn’t sound good to us English-speaking ears that you go “woman.” But maybe it’s better in the Aramaic, I’m hoping. But Jesus had some troubles about his jobs and where he was doing and what he was doing it for. And, you know, a mother, the mother, you know, you don’t want your mother coming up to where you work and saying you’re not good at your job. I mean, that’s not good. That’s a bad day right there. And, you know, and I don’t know, you know, can you imagine, I don’t know if we can be Jesus, but you’ve got these world-changing powers. You want to change the world for good. You want to help people, you want to get love all around, forgiveness and all that, and your mom wants you to solve the lack of wine at a three-day blowout party for people you don’t know. You know, Jesus Christ is fully human. I can see him being a little upset about that one. And not just, you know, hey, bring a bottle of wine. I mean, come on, it’s a party, bring the wine, what are you? You know, we’re talking multiple gallons of water turning to wine. We’re talking 20 to 30, what is it, six times 20, help me out. It’s over 100 gallons of wine. That’s a lot of wine. Of course, you know, Mary didn’t say, hey, go get 100 gallons. Is that Jesus’ job? I don’t know. We struggle with that in the church. We’re struggling right now about what is the church’s job. I mean, folks will say let’s get politics out of the church, doo to doo to doo, you know, they want to say that. And you know what, I’ve noticed over the years, I mean, I’ve been around a little bit, politics just kept getting wider and wider and wider. You know? It used to be you could go buy craft supplies and not worry about politics. Now you’ve got to say, well, that one’s Republican and that one’s Democrat. Politics are just freaking everywhere. You know, and people wear them, you know, as part of their clothing, their politics. It is politics, politics, politics, politics everywhere. And it affects – and it’s not just politics. Politics affects our lives, affects our health, affects our neighbors, affects ourselves, affects our family. You know, we say, well, it’s just politics. Well, no, man, it’s morality. It’s reality. It’s how we live. It’s how we structure society. It’s how we help one another. And even now we saw right now that a bishop, you know, we don’t have bishops. I don’t know. Sometimes that’s good; sometimes it’s bad. I don’t know. But we don’t have bishops. But that’s like, you know, up there, you know, big hat, in charge of church and stuff. And the bishop in the church, okay, that’s kind of a big thing, bishop in the church there actually makes it a cathedral when the bishop’s in the church. So the bishop in the cathedral saying a sermon, you know, the bishop in the cathedral in a sermon, you think that’s religious. But some people say, oh, no, that’s politics. They can’t say this. They can’t say that. They’ve got this to do. They’ve got this to do. They’ve got to be in this box. They can’t be this. And oh, my gosh, I want to tell you about how the bishop in the cathedral preaching a sermon should be. I say get the politics out of the church. I say get the politics out of my life. My life belongs to Jesus Christ. Don’t be telling me I can’t follow Jesus Christ because you don’t like the politics. And don’t be coming into a cathedral and telling the bishop what he can say in their own pulpit. No. We have trouble with jobs, with what is a job. I mean, even today we have trouble. You know, we say we might get upset about oh, my gosh, he should have said into this. Oh, my gosh, that’s not her job. Oh, she shouldn’t have made the wine. I mean, I’m sure that there were some people, well, Jesus, you know, you shouldn’t be making that much wine for drunk people. I mean, that is a reasonable criticism. I mean, Laurie can help me out here, but I’m thinking that’s enabling. I mean, that’s like master-class enabling right there. These drunk people need more wine. I mean, the steward flat-out said they were already drunk; you know? And why do drunk people need more wine, I don’t know. And people could criticize that, and I don’t even think that would be political. But what is the job of the church? It’s something we’re going to be struggling with, I’ll tell you. We’re going to be struggling with that. And, you know, between ministers, and it’s especially a struggle because, you know, when you get in a ministry you can sort of say, good, the ministry will figure that out; you know. But when it’s just y’all, you know, you’ve got to figure out what is the church. Does the church do this? Does the church do that? Is that our job? Should we have services even though none of us lives in Lee Vining and we’ve got a lot of weather? Should we do that? I mean, it’d be really nice to have a minister decide that. But you don’t, so you’ve got to decide that, oh, you know. So what do you do? Now, let me change gears a little bit. Palisades Fire. Have you heard of it? Palisades Fire. Now, I don’t know it you know about Palisades. Kind of a rich people place. But, you know, they have a severe homeless problem. They’ve got a lot of folks there that are hungry, don’t have housing, don’t have food. But the disaster is a disaster. I can’t imagine losing everything you own. I can’t imagine that. There’s been loss of life in the double digits, I think it’s up to 23 or so. Whole neighborhoods washed out. I mean, one of the Presbyterian execs lost her home down there, one of my friends, Wendy. I can’t imagine that. Everything, you look around, everything gone. Another one of the ministers at the Palisades church, he had time to run down – you’ve got to read it. It’s on the PCUSA website, that Palisades fire, and was in the Presbyterian newsletter last week. But the pastor had enough time to run from the church down to the elementary school, grab his kids, because there was just cars everywhere, nothing was moving. There’s parents trying to get their kids. Had enough time to go down, get his kids, take them back out to the car, and flee the church. He didn’t take anything out of his office, and the church burned to the ground. I can’t imagine, what a tragedy. I want to say that, that it’s awful, it’s a tragedy, it’s a horrible thing. Suffering is real. And that’s one of the things the Church knows. But I do want to tell you about jobs. When we’re talking about jobs, for at least a little while, for at least a couple weeks, there’s no hungry person in the Palisades. There’s no one hungry. There is no hunger because World Food Kitchen rolled in there with the food trucks. They rolled in, and they said anyone that’s hungry, come and eat. And we’re not checking your ID. We’re not seeing where you’re living. If you’re hungry, come and eat. We’ve got food. Come on down. And good food, too. And they got stores there that are open, and they’ve got brand new stuff for babies, and clothes, and if you lost something, come on in and don’t pay. There’s no charge. The donations are there, and they’re here for you to pick up, and God bless. So we can do that. It takes a fire. It takes a disaster. It takes a horrible thing. Now, in Mary’s case the disaster was we ran out of wine at a social event. Okay, a little bit of a disaster. But the disaster that we have here that wiped out entire communities was enough to say, oh, yeah, we can feed every person and not charge them. We can clothe the naked and not charge them. We can do that. So when you say to me, oh, well, we can’t do it, you know, we’ve got to run like a business, and we’ve got to have profit and loss, so we’ve got to have [indiscernible] and negative, yeah, I’d say, well, yeah, I understand that, I mean, I did get an A in accounting. But for at least a couple weeks we did it. We could do it. We could stop making billionaires and now trillionaires. We’ve got a couple people on the way to trillionaire, hoo-hoo. We could quit making them. And we can start making people that are fed and housed. We can do it. I don’t want a fire to wipe out a whole community to figure out how we can be Christians and make sure everyone’s got fed, clothing, and housing. I’d rather not. I’d rather we just decided, yeah, this is something we could do. And you know, it’s not just the church’s job. I mean, we say, well, the church ought to do that. They should have a lot of money and social things and all this. You know, Matthew 25, where it talks about the naked, clothing the naked and feeding the hungry and visiting the imprisoned and all the things that folks say, oh, I don’t know if we can afford all that. It doesn’t say the church is going to be judged by that. It doesn’t say that individuals are going to be judged by that. We would like it to, oh, my gosh, that’d be so much easier. You know, oh, I’ve done good. I’m okay. I give things. I’m helpful. No. It says the nations will be judged. The nations of the world line up and are judged. Our Bible says, our Savior says, our gospel good news says right there in black-and-white, that the nations will be judged by how they take care of one another. So if you take comfort like I do, well, I’m a good person, I don’t hurt anybody, I’m nice, uh-oh. The nations are judged by that. Well, that’s pretty heavy, Christy. My gosh. No wonder they only let you in once a month. Hey, let’s talk about the servants. Did you notice the servants? It’s hard. They don’t have any speaking parts. I mean, that is just plain unfair right there. Because you look at the Scripture, the servants are doing all the work. They’re going, they get ordered over here, I mean, there’s this Mary person. Who’s she? She’s not part of the household. Mary has to go over here, and he goes, talk to the stranger; you know? And here’s the thing, you know, if I’m a servant, you know, and I’m thinking this, I’m not saying it out loud because servant, you know. But I’m thinking, you know, we’d have the wine if this guy didn’t bring all his big burly Galilean fishermen to drink all the wine. You know, I’m thinking that was an issue. I don’t think they planned for that. You know, his whole entourage comes, I mean, I’m thinking, those are some wine drinkers there, buddy. You know? And so makes sense to talk to this guy, do what this guy says. And they’re saying, oh, okay, I guess we’re servants. I guess we do that. And he goes, go fill up those big old honkin’ jars. I mean, you know, it’s like 55-gallon drums, if you can imagine. Not quite that big, but, you know, roll them around and fill them up with water. I mean, who knows where that water is? Could have been, you know, a couple blocks away; you know? Lot of work there. They do all that. And they’re thinking, this guy’s nuts. Why is he giving water? We’re out of wine. We should be going around and getting some wine, and now he’s having us do this busywork and then go do that. And then they go, they bring that. And then Jesus says, “Go take the water to the chief steward to inspect for wine.” They go, what craziness is this? They’re going to yell at us. This is ridiculous. Why are we bothering the stewards? I don’t want to get involved. And the guy, the steward said, you know, this is really good wine. And, you know, the servants are going, “Crazy white people,” you know. What? What? We put that in there. It’s water. We know. And they go, oh, yes, it’s great wine. And they tell one another, you know, should we say something? Should we tell them? No, we shouldn’t say anything. I don’t want to say anything. We’ll get along just fine. And then says the disciples believe. I think the servants just thought he was crazy, crazy folks. But, you know, where are the servants? You know? You know, he says, go do whatever Christ told you to do. Even though it’s crazy. Even though it can’t possibly work. Even though we know better. Even though we know it’s going to fail terribly. Go ahead and do it anyway. Go ahead and do it anyway. What if Jesus says go over to Palisades and feed all the hungry over there? Oh, that’s not going to work. I can’t possibly do that. That’s ridiculous. Go do it anyway. That’s where we’re at. You know, we’re not around, sitting around saying, oh, let me think about what Jesus should be doing, what the job of the church is, and where are we going, and what’s our profit and loss, and what’s our five-year plan? What’s our objectives, you know, specific measurable attainable and time-related. What should we do? It’s to follow Jesus and do whatever he tells you. That’s our job. That’s our job. If we do that, Jesus will be revealed, and people will believe. Amen.

Jesus heals a Galilean of a terrible affliction according to the Gospel of Mark. Keith Nester books available at https://amzn.to/4hmQylq Gospel of Mark available at https://amzn.to/40rYHOt ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's HISTORY OF NORTH AMERICA podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Mark's TIMELINE Video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credit: Unpacking the Mass podcast with Keith Nester, 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time - February 11, 2024 (07feb2024, Down To Earth Ministry); Catholic Answers Encyclopedia: Leprosy by J. F. Donovan. Audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome! Church Online is a community of people all over the experiencing God and connecting with one another like never before in history. Introduce yourself in the chat and let us know where you're from! Get Connected Check us out on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram Find a Small Group www.southpoint4u.com/groups Find out more at www.southpoint4u.com Notes: Living in a broken world where everyone is flawed means ALL of us will end up with a wound. Overly Sensitive – Unhealthy Reaction – Self Medicate – Unwanted Outcome – Overly Sensitive Ignoring unresolved hurt keeps us stuck in a loop of dysfunction which is tiresome UNRESOLVED HURT: Wound – someone said or did something hurtful Lie – a wound that creates a false truth about you Vow – we make a promise that becomes a prison NOTHING fixes itself…this is especially true about the hurts we all experience Do DIFFERENT not Do More Ignore Pretend Excuse Medicate Spiritualize Jesus's unconditional and unfailing love gives us the courage to face even our most painful moments …the men who had been standing there came over to him and said, “We know you are one of his disciples, for we can tell by your Galilean accent.” Peter began to curse and swear. “I don't even know the man,” he said. - Matthew 26:73-75 Immediately a rooster crowed. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken: “Before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly. - Matthew 26:73-75 Simon Peter said, “I'm going fishing!” The disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Peter heard that it was the Lord, he wrapped his outer garment around him…and jumped into the water. The other disciples followed in the boat… - John 21:3 & 7-8 The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” - John 21:17 Unresolved hurt is not a blemish to hide from Jesus - Jesus's unconditional love calls us to run to him with our hurts Professional Counseling Celebrate Recovery Stephen Ministry Small Groups Jesus's unconditional and unfailing love gives us the courage to face even our most painful moments

Matthew 4:12-25 is the first of three turning points in Mathtew's gospel. The other two are found in chapters 16 and 28, respectively. In this first one, Jesus begins his public ministry and life. He reveals himself publicly to the residents of the Galilean countryside by preaching his first sermon, calling his first disciples, and healing the sick and infirmed. Our study of these verses leaves us asking ourselves three questions. You can join us to find out what they are.

This week's message looks at the familiar parable of the Sower and the Seed. Jesus employs an image familiar to his Galilean audience to teach

Do reminders keep you in check or do they just feel like nagging?  Today I would love to share one of my recent messages from our home church as we head into the new year here at the Parable Podcast. Please enjoy this message wherever it may find you today.Sermon NotesWhile Jesus was living in the Galilean hills, John, called “the Baptizer,” was preaching in the desert country of Judea. His message was simple and [stern], like his desert surroundings: “Change your life. God's kingdom is here.” Matthew 3:1-2 MSGJohn's proclamation fulfilled a promise made by the ancient prophet Isaiah, who had said, “There will be a voice calling from the desert, saying, Prepare the road for the Eternal One's journey; repair and straighten out every mile of our God's highway.” Matthew 3:3 The VoiceCalling a memory or thought to mind Designed to prompt or aid the memory of what is to comeHe merely pointed to the Light. - John 1:8 The Voice He must increase, but I must decrease.” John 3:30 ESV**What is the reminder you need today to hold onto as we head into 2025:**Find Joy in preparing the way for Jesus in your own life.Find the Joy in repairing and straightening your lifeFind Joy in allowing Him to increase, while you decrease.“Body piercing saved my life.”Reflection QuestionsWhat is the reminder you need today to hold onto as we head into 2025?Find Joy in preparing the way for Jesus in your own life.Find the Joy in repairing and straightening your lifeFind Joy in allowing Him to increase, while you decrease.Connect with Danielle | Instagram How to support The Parable Podcast: #1 Subscribe or Follow the show so you don't miss the next episode of The Parable Podcast through your favorite podcast app (i.e. iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher). #2 Share this show with a friend, this is a perfect opportunity to start your own Parable Conversation together. #3 Are you in need of a speaker for your Church, Women's Group, or event? Contact Danielle to learn more.

Today, before we look at Luke 9, I again want to ask for your prayers. This coming Saturday the 11th, I will be leaving for a Southeast Asian country. Would you be willing to join me in this great ministry of prayer so that the multitudes in this Asian country can hear the Truth of God's Word and find out Who Jesus really is? Let me know by sending me an email at: pastormike@pmiministries.org  Also, if you would like to financially support this great opportunity, please go to my website: https://www.pmiministries.org/   In Luke 9:6-36, Jesus is performing several ministries as He completes His northern Galilean ministry. In verses 1-11, Jesus is sending out His disciples to minister. In verses 12-17, Jesus is feeding the five thousand men with their families. Now, in verses 18-36, Jesus is teaching. He first teaches His disciples about His person (vv. 18-20). When He asks them who they believe He is, Peter responds that He is “The Christ of God.”   Secondly in verses 21-22, Jesus is teaching about His suffering, His sacrificial death, and His resurrection. But almost immediately after this startling statement about His death, Jesus begins to speak about what it really means to be His disciple. I can only imagine that after the crowds have experience His miraculous ministry for the past two years, that many of them were moved emotionally and “desired to be with Him” all the time.   This is so true for so many believers today. When we first get saved and experience Jesus' forgiveness, His love and compassion, and deliverance from the guilt and bondage of our sins, we are so emotionally moved we “desire” to follow Him the rest of our life. But we have no clue what that really means! So, Jesus gives a lesson on discipleship and teaches and describes what that really means.   It definitely is not a life of ease, but like Jesus, it involves surrender, “you must deny yourself”, it involves suffering, “you must take up your cross daily”, and it involves sacrifice, “you must lose your life for His sake”. The closest contemporary word to "disciple" is probably "apprentice." A disciple is more than a student who learns lessons by means of lectures and books. He is one who learns by living and working with his teacher in a daily "hands on" experience. Too many Christians are content to be listeners who gain a lot of knowledge but who have never put that knowledge into practice.   Jesus laid down the stem requirements for discipleship. We must first say no to ourselves, not simply to pleasures or possessions, but to self, and then take up our cross and follow Christ daily. This means to be identified with Him in surrender, suffering, and sacrifice. You cannot crucify yourself; you can only yield your body and let God do the rest. Paul puts it this way in Romans 12:1-2; “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”   In Galatians 2:20, Paul writes: “I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 5:24 tells us: “And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” And then we can say with Paul, “But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Galatians 6:14).   “Only one life,'twill soon be past, Only what's done for Christ will last” (C.T. Studd). “He is no fool who gives up that which he cannot keep, to gain that which he cannot lose!” (Jim Elliot)   Discipleship is a daily discipline: we follow Jesus a step at a time, a day at a time.   God bless!

Today, before we look at Luke 9, I again want to ask for your prayers. This coming Saturday the 11th, I will be leaving for a Southeast Asian country. I will meet with a national leader there who works with over 600 plus pastors. It is my goal and prayer to connect each of these pastors to a prayer partner here in the states that will take him into their heart and regularly intercede on his behalf.   Would you be willing to join me in this great ministry of prayer so that the multitudes in this Asian country can hear the Truth of God's Word and find out Who Jesus really is? Let me know by sending me an email at: pastormike@pmiministries.org  Also, if you would like to financially support this great opportunity, please go to my website: https://www.pmiministries.org/ Under the donate button you will see a place there to do that! Thanks in advance for all your prayers and support!   In Luke 9:6-36, Jesus is performing several ministries as He completes His northern Galilean ministry. In verses 1-11, Jesus is sending. He sent out His disciples by twos on their first solo tour of ministry. In verses 12-17, Jesus is feeding. He miraculously feed five thousand men with their families with only five loaves and two fish. Now, in verses 18-36, Jesus is teaching. He first teaches His disciples about His person (vv. 18-21). When He asks them who they believe He is, Peter responds that He is “The Christ of God.”   Then strangely, in verse 21, Jesus tells them to “tell this to no one”. Why? Because in John 6 we learn that after Jesus fed the multitude, they sought to make Him a king. Jesus knew that this was not His Father's plan at this time. He knew that He must first suffer by being rejected and killed by the religious leader and then resurrect the third day (v. 22).   Jesus had already given a number of "hints" about His sacrificial death, but now He began to teach this truth clearly to His disciples. John the Baptist had presented Him as the "Lamb of God" in John 1:29, and in John 2:19-22, Jesus had predicted the "destruction" of the temple of His body. "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." Then the Jews said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?" But He was speaking of the temple of His body.”   Jesus was making statements about His suffering and death when He compared Himself to the serpent in the wilderness in John 3:14-15. “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” And to Jonah in Matthew 12:40, “For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.”   This passage in Luke 9:21-26 is the first of three statements in Luke about His coming passion in Jerusalem (see also Luke 9:43-45; 18:31-34). It is clear that the Twelve did not understand, partly because of their unbelief and immaturity, and partly because it was "hidden" from them by God. Jesus taught them as they were able to receive the truth (John 16:12). It must have shocked the men to hear that their own religious leaders would kill their Master.   But Jesus did not stop with a private announcement of His own death. He also made a public declaration about a cross for every disciple. In his Gospel, Matthew tells us that this was necessary because of Peter's desire to protect Jesus from suffering (Matt. 16:21-23). Keep in mind that Jesus is talking about discipleship and not sonship. We are not saved from our sins because we take up a cross and follow Jesus, but because we trust the Savior who died on the cross for our sins. After we become children of God, then we can become disciples.   In tomorrow's chat we will look at what it means for us to be a disciple of Jesus in more detail. But for sure, like Jesus, it involves, surrender, suffering, and sacrifice!   God bless!

Luke 1:26-38 MESSAGE In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to the Galilean village of Nazareth to a virgin engaged to be married to a man descended from David. His name was Joseph, and the virgin's name, Mary. Upon entering, Gabriel greeted her: Good morning! You're beautiful with God's beauty, Beautiful inside and out! God be with you. She was thoroughly shaken, wondering what was behind a greeting like that. But the angel assured her, “Mary, you have nothing to fear. God has a surprise for you: You will become pregnant and give birth to a son and call his name Jesus. He will be great, be called ‘Son of the Highest.' The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David; He will rule Jacob's house forever— no end, ever, to his kingdom.” Mary said to the angel, “But how? I've never slept with a man.” The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, the power of the Highest hover over you; Therefore, the child you bring to birth will be called Holy, Son of God. “And did you know that your cousin Elizabeth conceived a son, old as she is? Everyone called her barren, and here she is, six months pregnant! Nothing, you see, is impossible with God.” And Mary said, Yes, I see it all now: I'm the Lord's maid, ready to serve. Let it be with me just as you say. Then the angel left her. Can you put yourself in Mary's place? Everything to that point was normal—everything in its place, just an ordinary day… then a beautiful disruption. An angel appears out of nowhere. It must have been terrifying. But the angel says don't fear. Something remarkable is going to happen. Listen again to some of the things the angel says will happen. “God has a surprise for you: You will become pregnant and give birth to a son and call his name Jesus. He will be great, be called ‘Son of the Highest.' The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David; He will rule Jacob's house forever— no end, ever, to his kingdom.” Mary said to the angel, “But how? I've never slept with a man.” The angel answered, The Holy Spirit will come upon you, the power of the Highest hover over you; Therefore, the child you bring to birth will be called Holy, Son of God. Nothing, you see, is impossible with God.” Because of what happened over 2000 years ago, an impossible pregnancy story, is a perfect template for what God continues to do for all of us. He intersects, disrupts our normal, and says don't fear something remarkable is going to happen. Can you hear God saying to you… don't fear. God has a surprise for you, nothing, you see, is impossible with God. Father, we thank you for this time of joyful waiting. May the hope and joy of this season fill our hearts and make us living signs of your love for a world that hungers for your peace. Immanuel, God with us. Amen

In this sermon by Chris Romig, the focus is on the season of Advent and its theme of eagerly anticipating Christ's Second Coming. Chris ties this theme to the Book of Revelation, specifically addressing the first eight verses of chapter one, with a continuation planned for January. He explains the concept of the Rapture using the Greek word "harpazo," meaning to snatch away suddenly, drawing from passages like John 14:1-3, and uses the metaphor of a Galilean wedding to illustrate Christ's return for his followers. Romig references Paul's letters, particularly 1 Thessalonians, to provide reassurance about the resurrection and the fate of believers who have passed away before the Rapture. He compares these events to the Jewish Feast of Trumpets, which symbolically signals gathering and completion through trumpet blasts. Chris emphasizes a clear distinction between resurrection, rapture, and reunion in scripture, advocating for a pre-tribulation rapture view. He outlines four key reasons for this belief: Christ's return with the saints, the removal of a restrainer before the Antichrist is revealed, the absence of the Church in the Great Tribulation, and Christians being spared from God's wrath. He underscores the importance of basing beliefs on scripture rather than speculation regarding prophetic events. Romig portrays the Second Coming, like the first, as unfolding in stages—Rapture, Tribulation, and Second Coming—infused with Advent's themes of hope and preparation. The sermon concludes by encouraging believers to hold onto the hope and eagerly prepare for Christ's return, just as the scriptures invite them to do during the Advent season.

Support Common Prayer Daily @ PatreonVisit our Website for more www.commonprayerdaily.com_______________Opening Words:Watch, for you know not when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or at cockcrow, or in the morning; lest he come suddenly and find you asleep.Mark 13:35, 36 Confession:Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God. Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen. Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen. The InvitatoryLord, open our lips.And our mouth shall proclaim your praise.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. Alleluia. Venite (Psalm 95:1-7)Our King and Savior now draws near: Come, let us adore him.Come, let us sing to the Lord; * let us shout for joy to the Rock of our salvation.Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving * and raise a loud shout to him with psalms.For the Lord is a great God, * and a great King above all gods.In his hand are the caverns of the earth, * and the heights of the hills are his also.The sea is his, for he made it, * and his hands have molded the dry land.Come, let us bow down, and bend the knee, * and kneel before the Lord our Maker.For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture and the sheep of his hand. *Oh, that today you would hearken to his voice!Our King and Savior now draws near: Come, let us adore him. The PsalterPsalm 45Eructavit cor meumBCP p. 647My heart is stirring with a noble song;let me recite what I have fashioned for the king; *my tongue shall be the pen of a skilled writer.You are the fairest of men; *grace flows from your lips,because God has blessed you for ever.Strap your sword upon your thigh, O mighty warrior, *in your pride and in your majesty.Ride out and conquer in the cause of truth *and for the sake of justice.Your right hand will show you marvelous things; *your arrows are very sharp, O mighty warrior.The peoples are falling at your feet, *and the king's enemies are losing heart.Your throne, O God, endures for ever and ever, *a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of your kingdom;you love righteousness and hate iniquity.Therefore God, your God, has anointed you *with the oil of gladness above your fellows.All your garments are fragrant with myrrh, aloes, and cassia, *and the music of strings from ivory palaces makes you glad.Kings' daughters stand among the ladies of the court; *on your right hand is the queen,adorned with the gold of Ophir.“Hear, O daughter; consider and listen closely; *forget your people and your father's house.The king will have pleasure in your beauty; *he is your master; therefore do him honor.The people of Tyre are here with a gift; *the rich among the people seek your favor.”All glorious is the princess as she enters; *her gown is cloth-of-gold.In embroidered apparel she is brought to the king; *after her the bridesmaids follow in procession.With joy and gladness they are brought, *and enter into the palace of the king.“In place of fathers, O king, you shall have sons; *you shall make them princes over all the earth.I will make your name to be rememberedfrom one generation to another; *therefore nations will praise you for ever and ever.” Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen. LessonsIsa. 9:1-7A Reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah.But there will be no gloom for her who was in anguish. In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he has made glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations.    The people who walked in darkness        have seen a great light;    those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,        on them has light shone.    You have multiplied the nation;        you have increased its joy;    they rejoice before you        as with joy at the harvest,        as they are glad when they divide the spoil.    For the yoke of his burden,        and the staff for his shoulder,        the rod of his oppressor,        you have broken as on the day of Midian.    For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult        and every garment rolled in blood        will be burned as fuel for the fire.    For to us a child is born,        to us a son is given;    and the government shall be upon his shoulder,        and his name shall be called    Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,        Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.    Of the increase of his government and of peace        there will be no end,    on the throne of David and over his kingdom,        to establish it and to uphold it    with justice and with righteousness        from this time forth and forevermore.    The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this. The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God. Te Deum laudamusYou are God: we praise you;You are the Lord: we acclaim you;You are the eternal Father:All creation worships you.To you all angels, all the powers of heaven, Cherubim and Seraphim, sing in endless praise:Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,heaven and earth are full of your glory.The glorious company of apostles praise you.The noble fellowship of prophets praise you.The white-robed army of martyrs praise you. Throughout the world the holy Church acclaims you;Father, of majesty unbounded,your true and only Son, worthy of all worship, and the Holy Spirit, advocate and guide.You, Christ, are the king of glory, the eternal Son of the Father.When you became man to set us free you did not shun the Virgin's womb. You overcame the sting of deathand opened the kingdom of heaven to all believers. You are seated at God's right hand in glory.We believe that you will come and be our judge.Come then, Lord, and help your people, bought with the price of your own blood, and bring us with your saintsto glory everlasting. 2 Pet. 1:12-21A Reading from the Second Letter of Peter.Therefore I intend always to remind you of these qualities, though you know them and are established in the truth that you have. I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder, since I know that the putting off of my body will be soon, as our Lord Jesus Christ made clear to me. And I will make every effort so that after my departure you may be able at any time to recall these things.  For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For when he received honor and glory from God the Father, and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” we ourselves heard this very voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. And we have the prophetic word more fully confirmed, to which you will do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts, knowing this first of all, that no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone's own interpretation. For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit. Luke 22:54-69A Reading from the Gospel According to Luke.Then they seized him and led him away, bringing him into the high priest's house, and Peter was following at a distance. And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them. Then a servant girl, seeing him as he sat in the light and looking closely at him, said, “This man also was with him.” But he denied it, saying, “Woman, I do not know him.” And a little later someone else saw him and said, “You also are one of them.” But Peter said, “Man, I am not.” And after an interval of about an hour still another insisted, saying, “Certainly this man also was with him, for he too is a Galilean.” But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly.  Now the men who were holding Jesus in custody were mocking him as they beat him. They also blindfolded him and kept asking him, “Prophesy! Who is it that struck you?” And they said many other things against him, blaspheming him.  When day came, the assembly of the elders of the people gathered together, both chief priests and scribes. And they led him away to their council, and they said, “If you are the Christ, tell us.” But he said to them, “If I tell you, you will not believe, and if I ask you, you will not answer. But from now on the Son of Man shall be seated at the right hand of the power of God.”The Word of the Lord.Thanks Be To God.Benedictus Dominus DeusBlessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; * he has come to his people and set them free.He has raised up for us a mighty savior, * born of the house of his servant David.Through his holy prophets he promised of old, that he would save us from our enemies, * from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers * and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham, * to set us free from the hands of our enemies, Free to worship him without fear, * holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High, * for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, To give his people knowledge of salvation * by the forgiveness of their sins.In the tender compassion of our God * the dawn from on high shall break upon us, To shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, * and to guide our feet into the way of peace.Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit:as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen. The Apostles CreedI believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen. The PrayersThe Lord be with you.And also with you.Let us pray.Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. Suffrages AV. Show us your mercy, O Lord;R. And grant us your salvation.V. Clothe your ministers with righteousness; R. Let your people sing with joy.V. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;R. For only in you can we live in safety. V. Lord, keep this nation under your care;R. And guide us in the way of justice and truth.V. Let your way be known upon earth;R. Your saving health among all nations.V. Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;R. Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.V. Create in us clean hearts, O God;R. And sustain us with your Holy Spirit.   The CollectsAdvent 3Stir up your power, O Lord, and with great might come among us; and, because we are sorely hindered by our sins, let your bountiful grace and mercy speedily help and deliver us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. Daily Collects:A Collect for PeaceO God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.A Collect for GraceO Lord, our heavenly Father, almighty and everlasting God, you have brought us safely to the beginning of this day: Defend us by your mighty power, that we may not fall into sin nor run into any danger; and that, guided by your Spirit, we may do what is righteous in your sight; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Take a moment of silence at this time to reflect and pray for others. Collect of Saint BasilO Christ God, Who art worshipped and glorified at every place and time; Who art long-suffering, most merciful and compassionate; Who lovest the righteous and art merciful to sinners; Who callest all to salvation with the promise of good things to come: receive, Lord, the prayers we now offer, and direct our lives in the way of Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, cleanse our bodies, correct our thoughts, purify our minds and deliver us from all affliction, evil and illness. Surround us with Thy holy angels, that guarded and instructed by their forces, we may reach unity of faith and the understanding of Thine unapproachable glory: for blessed art Thou unto ages of ages. Amen. A Prayer of St. John ChrysostomAlmighty God, you have given us grace at this time, with one accord to make our common supplications to you; and you have promised through your well-beloved Son that when two or three are gathered together in his Name you will grant their requests: Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting. Amen. DismissalLet us bless the LordThanks be to God! The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore. Amen

Mary wasn't anything like the serene and sanitized depictions we often see during the Christmas season. This poor, Galilean, teenage girl stepped into the story of God with boldness and trust, and the song she sings while pregnant with the Savior of the world is a reminder that God is turning the world as we know it upside down. 

In this episode of Kingdom Life, Chris Romig sheds light on the Second Coming of Christ, as detailed in the Book of Revelation. His congregation's study emphasizes that while interpretations of eschatology vary across denominations and personal biases, these differences do not compromise salvation or Christian unity. Chris underscores the necessity of faithfully anticipating Jesus' return and highlights key scriptural signs such as tribulations, seen as divine judgment before Christ's majestic arrival with his saints to establish His reign on earth. A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the pre-tribulation rapture, a belief that Christians will be taken to Heaven before the Great Tribulation. Chris uses the analogy of an ancient Galilean wedding to illustrate Jesus' promise of preparing a place for believers and returning for them, encouraging a deeper scriptural study to navigate common criticisms of the rapture. He references early Christian views like those of Irenaeus to support the idea of a pre-tribulation rapture, distinguishing routine Christian tribulations from the intensified Great Tribulation. The doctrine of the rapture is presented as a beacon of hope and comfort, prompting believers to live with urgency, sharing the Gospel, and expressing love as Jesus taught. Ultimately, Chris calls on Christians to anchor their assurance in grace and be prepared for Christ's return, reassuring that God's plans are clear when approached with diligent study and faithful anticipation.

Episode 141I spoke with Professor Philip Goff about:* What a “post-Galilean” science of consciousness looks like* How panpsychism helps explain consciousness and the hybrid cosmopsychist viewEnjoy!Philip Goff is a British author, idealist philosopher, and professor at Durham University whose research focuses on philosophy of mind and consciousness. Specifically, it focuses on how consciousness can be part of the scientific worldview. He is the author of multiple books including Consciousness and Fundamental Reality, Galileo's Error: Foundations for a New Science of Consciousness and Why? The Purpose of the Universe.Find me on Twitter for updates on new episodes, and reach me at editor@thegradient.pub for feedback, ideas, guest suggestions. Subscribe to The Gradient Podcast: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Pocket Casts | RSSFollow The Gradient on TwitterOutline:* (00:00) Intro* (01:05) Goff vs. Carroll on the Knowledge Arguments and explanation* (08:00) Preferences for theories* (12:55) Curiosity (Grounding, Essence) and the Knowledge Argument* (14:40) Phenomenal transparency and physicalism vs. anti-physicalism* (29:00) How Exactly does Panpsychism Help Explain Consciousness* (30:05) The argument for hybrid cosmopsychism* (36:35) “Bare” subjects / subjects before inheriting phenomenal properties* (40:35) Bundle theories of the self* (43:35) Fundamental properties and new subjects as causal powers* (50:00) Integrated Information Theory* (55:00) Fundamental assumptions in hybrid cosmopsychism* (1:00:00) OutroLinks:* Philip's homepage and Twitter* Papers* Putting Consciousness First* Curiosity (Grounding, Essence) and the Knowledge Argument Get full access to The Gradient at thegradientpub.substack.com/subscribe

He was a Galilean of the tribe of Simeon. The Old Testament book that bears his name foretells the destruction of Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, by the Medes, and the restoration of the Kingdom of Judah; all of this came to pass. Nahum is counted as the seventh of the Minor Prophets. He reposed in peace. His name means 'consolation' or 'repose.'   Five of the Prophets (Nahum, Habbakuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, and Daniel) are commemorated in December. At one time a Feast of the Twelve Prophets was celebrated on December 4 at the Church of the Resurrection, but this feast is no longer on the calendar. The days leading up to Christ's Nativity contain many commemorations of the faithful remnant of Israel, all of whose hopes were fulfilled in the birth of the Messiah.

Thanksgiving isn't just a holiday—it's an attitude we can choose to fill our hearts with every day.The Bible shares many examples of gratitude in the midst of challenging circumstances.Imagine Mary, a young Galilean girl, given the news that she was to be the mother of the Messiah. She didn't panic or protest. Instead, she embraced the news and nurtured the One who would bring healing to the whole world.The story in Luke 17 tells us that of the 10 lepers who were healed, only one returned to thank Jesus.Luke 17:15–16 says, “One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.”Whether He was blessing food given to thousands by a miracle, or giving thanks at the Last Supper, Jesus modeled an attitude of gratitude for us; knowing His death was imminent, Jesus still thanked His Heavenly Father.What can you find in your own life to be thankful for this week?Let's pray.Lord, thank You for the marvelous gifts You give us on a daily basis. Help us to always be mindful of this. In Jesus' name, amen.Change your shirt, and you can change the world! Save 15% Off your entire purchase of faith-based apparel + gifts at Kerusso.com with code KDD15.

Mark 14:53–72 (Listen) Jesus Before the Council 53 And they led Jesus to the high priest. And all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes came together. 54 And Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he was sitting with the guards and warming himself at the fire. 55 Now the chief priests and the whole council1 were seeking testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none. 56 For many bore false witness against him, but their testimony did not agree. 57 And some stood up and bore false witness against him, saying, 58 “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.'” 59 Yet even about this their testimony did not agree. 60 And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify against you?”2 61 But he remained silent and made no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” 62 And Jesus said, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” 63 And the high priest tore his garments and said, “What further witnesses do we need? 64 You have heard his blasphemy. What is your decision?” And they all condemned him as deserving death. 65 And some began to spit on him and to cover his face and to strike him, saying to him, “Prophesy!” And the guards received him with blows. Peter Denies Jesus 66 And as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came, 67 and seeing Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.” 68 But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you mean.” And he went out into the gateway3 and the rooster crowed.4 69 And the servant girl saw him and began again to say to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” 70 But again he denied it. And after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, “Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” 71 But he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” 72 And immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept.5 Footnotes [1] 14:55 Greek Sanhedrin [2] 14:60 Or Have you no answer to what these men testify against you? [3] 14:68 Or forecourt [4] 14:68 Some manuscripts omit and the rooster crowed [5] 14:72 Or And when he had thought about it, he wept (ESV)

Luke 8:1-3 begins with Luke giving a short summary of the ministry of Christ. “Now it came to pass, afterward”. He seems to refer back to what had already taken place in chapters 6 and 7 with Jesus and His disciples leaving Capernaum and going to Nain and raising the dead man and upon returning to Capernaum He has the dinner with Simon the Pharisee where the sinner woman of the street washed His feet. In these three verses of Luke is a summary of some of Christ's ministry which is not reported in detail in Luke. Again, it appears that Jesus left Capernaum and, “that He went through every city and village”. (v. 1). This speaks of Christ's Galilean ministry. Christ covered a lot of territory in His ministry. Multitudes had opportunity to hear Christ, but most of the people did not receive His ministry well.   Yesterday we talked about the message of His ministry. He preached “the glad tidings of the kingdom of God.” Then Luke tells us of the supporters of His ministry. Both men and women aided Christ in His ministry. He needed supporters as He traveled over the countryside. They could help in the common chores of providing meals, taking care of clothes, and other common duties that would be a distraction and hindrance to Christ's ministry if He had to do them Himself. Two groups of supporters are noted.   First, “the twelve disciples were with Him”. When Christ chose the twelve, it is specifically stated that one reason He chose them is "that they should be with him" (Mark 3:14). While they could handle some of the common chores of traveling, they would also give Him spiritual fellowship. And of course, they were listening and learning about the “Kingdom of God” and how they would be the ones to continue to share this message of “glad tidings” to the world after Jesus had gone back to heaven.   Secondly, we are told about, "Certain woman... who provided for Him from their substance" (Luke 8:2, 3). Besides the twelve disciples, there were women who also supported Christ. Three women are listed by name. Of these three, we know Mary Magdalene best. She seems to have come from Magdala, a village on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. That village was noted for its dye works, woolen goods, and trade in the pigeons and doves needed for the sacrificial offerings as required under the Mosaic Law. Magdala, moreover, was also known for its moral corruption. Mary grew up in that place and fell prey to evil spirits. Her case was hopeless, until Jesus came and set her free. She became the Lord's devoted follower.   All we know of Joanna is that she was the wife of Chuza, a court official. Some scholars think that he was the man whose son Jesus had healed with a word at Cana (John 4:46-54). In any case, Chuza was connected with Herod Antipas. Some people have suggested that it was Joanna who quickened Herod's interest in Jesus.   As for Susanna, all we know about her is her name. It means "lily." Jesus said that a lily is arrayed in splendor far beyond the glorious raiments that Solomon wore. Luke says that there were "many others" in addition to these three women. In the crowning day, when the books are opened and the names are read aloud, these women will receive their reward, as will all of those who have followed in their path.   Luke informs us that they, “had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities" (Luke 8:2). All three of these women had been helped by the wonder working power of Christ. Mary Magdalene had seven demons cast out of her. She was a really bad case, but Jesus removed the demons, and out of gratitude she became a faithful follower and helper of Christ. Joanna and Susanna were also helped by the healing power of Christ. Their infirmities are not specified but their healing prompted their serving of Christ.   Today, the Lord still needs His redeemed people to both share His message and give our support so that we can go into “every city and village” of the world. Are you sharing and giving?   God bless!

He was a Galilean, the son of Alphaeus, and was originally named Levi. He was a tax-collector (an occupation despised by the Jews of Palestine) until he met the Lord, who said to him, "Follow me." From that day he was one of the disciples.   After the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, the Apostle was appointed to bring the Gospel to his fellow Jews, for whom, according to the Church's tradition, he wrote down the Gospel for the first time, in the Aramaic language, eight years after the Ascension. Some years later, this book was translated into Greek by St James, the first Bishop of Jerusalem. No copy in the original language has survived.   Later, St Matthew traveled to Parthia and the city of Hierapolis (on the Euphrates river) to proclaim the Gospel to the pagans there. One tradition holds that he reposed in peace in that region at a great age. Another tradition holds that he was martyred by a king of that region, who later repented and was baptized, taking the name Matthew. The king then cast down the idols and established the Christian faith in his realm.   When St Matthew is portrayed in icons, the likeness of a man is shown with him, one of the four living creatures spoken of in the first chapter of Ezekiel. St Irenaeus writes that the man symbolizes Christ's Incarnation.

Europa Clipper is NASA's first mission dedicated to studying an icy ocean world. Launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket on October 14, 2024, from Kennedy Space Center, the spacecraft is set to arrive at Jupiter in April of 2030 to conduct sweeping flybys of Europa. Europa is one of Jupiter's four large Galilean moons. It's roughly the size of our own moon, but what's most is intriguing is that it may harbor the conditions for life in the massive ocean beneath its frozen surface. What we learn could open up the science floodgates to other ocean worlds across the solar system.

Acts 5:33-42   33 When they heard this, they were enraged and wanted to kill them. 34 But a Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law held in honor by all the people, stood up and gave orders to put the men outside for a little while. 35 And he said to them, “Men of Israel, take care what you are about to do with these men. 36 For before these days Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was killed, and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. 37 After him Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and drew away some of the people after him. He too perished, and all who followed him were scattered. 38 So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; 39 but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice, 40and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. 42 And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they did not cease teaching and preaching that the Christ is Jesus.   Key Words: Rage, Kill, Care, Overthrow, Oppose, Suffer, Dishonor, Name, Christ Keystone Verse: Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name. (Acts 5:41)   Download Bulletin

Message for 11/10/2024 "My Failure His Faithfulness" by Justin McTeer. *All verses are NLT unless otherwise noted* Colossians 1:15a - Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. Hebrews 1:3a - And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature 1. Malicious Murderous Betrayal 2. Let's You Down 3. Cuts & Runs 4. Breaks Your Heart. Matthew 26:6-13 - Meanwhile, Jesus was in Bethany at the home of Simon, a man who had previously had leprosy. 7 While he was eating, a woman came in with a beautiful alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it over his head. 8 The disciples were indignant when they saw this. “What a waste!” they said. 9 “It could have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.” 10 But Jesus, aware of this, replied, “Why criticize this woman for doing such a good thing to me? 11 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me. 12 She has poured this perfume on me to prepare my body for burial. 13 I tell you the truth, wherever the Good News is preached throughout the world, this woman's deed will be remembered and discussed.” Matthew 26:20-25 - When it was evening, Jesus sat down at the table with the Twelve. 21 While they were eating, he said, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me.” 22 Greatly distressed, each one asked in turn, “Am I the one, Lord?” 23 He replied, “One of you who has just eaten from this bowl with me will betray me. 24 For the Son of Man must die, as the Scriptures declared long ago. But how terrible it will be for the one who betrays him. It would be far better for that man if he had never been born!” 25 Judas, the one who would betray him, also asked, “Rabbi, am I the one?” And Jesus told him, “You have said it.” Matthew 26:31 - On the way, Jesus told them, “Tonight all of you will desert me. For the Scriptures say, ‘God will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' Matthew 26:33-35 - Peter declared, “Even if everyone else deserts you, I will never desert you.” 34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, Peter—this very night, before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.” 35 “No!” Peter insisted. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the other disciples vowed the same. Matthew 26:36-46 - Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, “Sit here while I go over there to pray.” 37 He took Peter and Zebedee's two sons, James and John, and he became anguished and distressed. 38 He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” 39 He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” 40 Then he returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Couldn't you watch with me even one hour? 41 Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” 42 Then Jesus left them a second time and prayed, “My Father! If this cup cannot be taken away] unless I drink it, your will be done.”43 When he returned to them again, he found them sleeping, for they couldn't keep their eyes open. 44 So he went to pray a third time, saying the same things again. 45 Then he came to the disciples and said, “Go ahead and sleep. Have your rest. But look—the time has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.46 Up, let's be going. Look, my betrayer is here!” People Let You Down Matthew 26:55-56 - Then Jesus said to the crowd, “Am I some dangerous revolutionary, that you come with swords and clubs to arrest me? Why didn't you arrest me in the Temple? I was there teaching every day. 56 But this is all happening to fulfill the words of the prophets as recorded in the Scriptures.” At that point, all the disciples deserted him and fled. People Cut & Run Matthew 26:69-76 - Meanwhile, Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. A servant girl came over and said to him, “You were one of those with Jesus the Galilean.” 70 But Peter denied it in front of everyone. “I don't know what you're talking about,” he said. 71 Later, out by the gate, another servant girl noticed him and said to those standing around, “This man was with Jesus of Nazareth.” 72 Again Peter denied it, this time with an oath. “I don't even know the man,” he said. 73 A little later some of the other bystanders came over to Peter and said, “You must be one of them; we can tell by your Galilean accent.” 74 Peter swore, “A curse on me if I'm lying—I don't know the man!” And immediately the rooster crowed. 75 Suddenly, Jesus' words flashed through Peter's mind: “Before the rooster crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.” And he went away, weeping bitterly. Ezekiel 6:9a - Then when they are exiled among the nations, they will remember me. They will recognize how hurt I am by their unfaithful hearts and lustful eyes that long for their idols. People Break Your Heart Matthew 26:40-41 - Then he returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Couldn't you watch with me even one hour? 41 Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” Hebrews 4:15 - This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. 2 Timothy 2:13 - If we are unfaithful, he remains faithful, for he cannot deny who he is.

Why does a tree have leaves, and if they are so important, why do leaves fall off a tree? Discover why a tree lets its leaves go and why those leaves turn many different colors before they fall off.Here's our trail map:What Is A Forest Biome?What Are Coniferous And Deciduous Trees?What Is The Job Of A Tree Leaf?Why Do Trees Lose Their Leaves?Why Do Leaves Change Colors?How Can We Let Others Around Us See God's Beauty Inside Us?Resources Mentioned and used for Research:Apologia Leaf Color Experiment: https://www.apologia.com/blog/fall-in-love-with-the-science-of-autumn-hidden-colors-activity/Access full Episode Lesson Guides in the Nat Theo Club: https://erynlynum.com/clubFree Tree Leaf Coloring Sheet: https://erynlynum.com/tree-leaves-change-colors/Explore Apologia's curriculum and classes: https://www.apologia.com/Apologia's Swimming Creatures Zoology Curriculum: https://www.apologia.com/shop/zoology-2-advantage-set/Explore CTCMath with a FREE weekly trial: https://www.ctcmath.com/Find great Christian books and resources at Christianbook.com: https://www.christianbook.com/Order Eryn's book, Rooted in Wonder: Nurturing Your Family's Faith Through God's Creation: https://www.amazon.com/Rooted-Wonder-Nurturing-Familys-Creation/dp/0825447615Scriptures Referenced in This Episode:“So they arrested him and led him to the high priest's home. And Peter followed at a distance. The guards lit a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. A servant girl noticed him in the firelight and began staring at him. Finally she said, ‘This man was one of Jesus' followers!'But Peter denied it. ‘Woman,' he said, ‘I don't even know him!'After a while someone else looked at him and said, ‘You must be one of them!'‘No, man, I'm not!' Peter retorted.About an hour later someone else insisted, ‘This must be one of them, because he is a Galilean, too.'But Peter said, ‘Man, I don't know what you are talking about.' And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed.At that moment the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Suddenly, the Lord's words flashed through Peter's mind: ‘Before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.' And Peter left the courtyard, weeping bitterly.” Luke 22:54-62 (NLT)“We cannot keep quiet. We must speak about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:20 (NCV)“I am not ashamed of the Good News, because it is the power God uses to save everyone who believes…” Romans 1:16 (NCV)Terms Learned in This Episode:Biome: A large area in the world with a specific climate including weather patterns and temperature where certain plants and creatures live.Coniferous Tree: A tree that makes cones, has needles for leaves, and most keep their leaves (needles) all year long.Deciduous Tree: Deciduous means “falling Off.” A deciduous tree has leaves that fall off. Most deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall, but some lose them in spring.Marcescence: When a tree holds on to its dead, faded, withering leaves. This happens in the case of some oak trees

Sunday - Gospel Harmony - 16 - The Galilean Ministry - John 4 & Luke 4

One of the Twelve Apostles, he was a Galilean by birth. His name means "twin." The twentieth chapter of St John's Gospel describes how, when he doubted the appearance of the Risen Lord, Christ appeared to him again, saying "Reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side; and be not faithless, but believing," at which Thomas cried out "My Lord and my God!" Through this one event the Holy Scriptures attest that Christ is risen bodily, not merely as a spirit, as some heresies claim; and that He is in fact God. After Pentecost, St Thomas proclaimed the Gospel in the East, and established the Christian faith as far as India, where the small remnant of the ancient Church still traces its foundation to him. According to some accounts he met a martyr's end; according to others, he reposed in peace. St John Chrysostom mentions that his tomb was in Edessa in Syria; his relics may have been translated there from India in the fourth century.