Promise Verse

 Be strong and take heart, 

all you who hope in the Lord.

(Psalm 31:24)

Promise Verse

 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, 

for He who promised is faithful.

(Hebrews 10:23)

Bible Study - David’s Repentance

 

David’s Repentance and God's Mercy

Primary Scriptures:

• 2 Samuel 11–12 – David’s sin with Bathsheba and the confrontation by Nathan the prophet
• Psalm 51 – David’s personal prayer of repentance
• Acts 13:22 – God’s testimony about David: “a man after my own heart”
• 1 Samuel 13:14 – The prophecy about David replacing Saul

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I. Overview of David’s Sin

In 2 Samuel 11, we read how:

• David saw Bathsheba, a married woman, and committed adultery with her.
• To cover the resulting pregnancy, David arranged the murder of her husband, Uriah.
• David took Bathsheba as his wife, thinking he had concealed his sin.

Key Point: David, though a man of great faith, fell deeply into sin. His position as king did not exempt him from temptation or accountability.

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II. God Confronts David Through the Prophet Nathan (2 Samuel 12)

Nathan tells a parable about a rich man stealing a poor man's only lamb, which enrages David—until Nathan declares, "You are the man!"

David immediately confesses:

"I have sinned against the Lord." (2 Samuel 12:13)

Nathan tells him:

• God has put away his sin.
• However, consequences will follow: the child born to Bathsheba would die, and violence would come from David’s own house.

Lesson: God’s forgiveness does not always remove the earthly consequences of sin, but it restores the relationship with Him.

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III. David’s Heart of Repentance – Psalm 51

David’s response to his sin is captured in Psalm 51, a model for true repentance:

Key Themes in Psalm 51:

• Brokenness and Humility:

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart…” (v.17)

• Personal Responsibility:

“Against You, You only, have I sinned…” (v.4)

• Desire for Renewal:

“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” (v.10)

• Desire for Restoration:

“Restore to me the joy of Your salvation…” (v.12)

Insight: True repentance is not just about regret or consequences—it’s about a heart turning back to God.

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IV. Why God Still Called David “A Man After His Own Heart”

Despite his failure, God described David in Acts 13:22:

“I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after My own heart, who will do all My will.”

What made David different from Saul?

• Saul made excuses (1 Samuel 15); David took ownership of his sin.
• Saul’s heart grew proud and rebellious; David’s heart was tender and humble.
• David sought to do God's will, even after sinning.

Truth: Being a person after God’s heart doesn’t mean perfection—it means a posture of humility, obedience, and repentance.

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V. Lessons and Applications

1. No one is beyond failure.

Even the most anointed, like David, can fall into sin. That’s why daily humility and guarding your heart are crucial.

2. God sees the heart, not just actions.

David sinned, but he repented deeply. God looks for a sincere and contrite heart.

3. Repentance restores relationship.

David’s joy was restored, not by sacrifice or ritual, but by honest confession and seeking God’s mercy.

4. God uses imperfect people for His glory.

Despite David’s past, God used him to write Psalms, lead Israel, and set the lineage for Jesus Christ (Son of David).

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Reflection Questions

1. When confronted with sin, do you respond like Saul (blame) or David (repentance)?
2. Is there anything you’ve been hiding that you need to bring into the light?
3. How can you develop a heart that chases after God’s will daily?
4. Have you prayed through Psalm 51 personally?

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Prayer:

“Lord, give me a heart like David—a heart that loves You, repents quickly, and longs for Your presence. Wash me from all unrighteousness and create in me a clean heart. Amen.”

 

 

 

Promise Verse

 May the words of my mouth and 

the meditation of my heart be pleasing 

in your sight, 

Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer

(Psalm 19:14)

Promise Verse

 Be strong and courageous. 

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, 

for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go

(Joshua 1:9)

Promise Verse

 In God I trust and am not afraid

(Psalm 56:4)

Message - Fifth Sunday of Easter

 

All Things New: A Love That Breaks Barriers

This week’s readings speak about the transformative love of God—a love that not only makes all things new (Rev. 21:5), but also tears down the dividing walls between people and draws them into a new creation through Christ.

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I. The Radical Inclusion of God's Grace

Acts 11:1–18

Peter is explaining to Jewish believers why he entered the house of a Gentile (Cornelius) and baptized him. The early church was struggling to understand that the Gospel was not just for Jews, but for all nations.

• God’s vision (Acts 10) broke Peter’s traditional understanding of “clean” and “unclean.”
• Peter testifies that the Holy Spirit fell on the Gentiles just as on the Jews at Pentecost.
• The statement “Who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?” (v. 17) challenges us: Are we standing in God’s way when He moves beyond our expectations?

Application:

• God’s love and salvation are for all people—every race, tribe, background, and lifestyle.
• We are called to tear down walls of prejudice, tradition, and fear, and invite others into God's family.
• The church must always ask: Are we aligned with God's mission or resisting it due to comfort or culture?

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II. The New Creation Has Already Begun

Revelation 21:1–6

John sees a new heaven and a new earth. This is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan—a world renewed by the love and righteousness of Christ.

• “God will dwell with them”—this is Eden restored, a world where God’s presence is uninterrupted.
• “No more death, mourning, crying, or pain”—the end of suffering is not a dream, but a promise.
• “I am making all things new” – Not just one day in heaven, but now, through the work of Christ and the Spirit.

Application:

• As believers, we live as citizens of the new creation, reflecting heaven’s values on earth.
• The church is a preview of that eternal city—a place of healing, welcome, justice, and peace.
• Are we participating in the "making new" work of Jesus in our homes, neighborhoods, and hearts?

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III. The Commandment of Love – Our Identity

John 13:31–35

These words were spoken just after Judas left to betray Jesus. Despite the betrayal, Jesus focuses on glory and love.

• Jesus calls this a “new commandment”—not because love is new, but because the standard is new: “As I have loved you.”
• Christ’s love is sacrificial, unconditional, and forgiving.
• Love is not a suggestion—it is the mark of a true disciple.

Application:

• The world will know Jesus through our love for one another.
• Can we love like Jesus in the face of betrayal, conflict, and hurt?
• Loving one another includes forgiveness, generosity, patience, humility, and truthfulness.

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IV. Worship and Witness: All Creation Praises the Lord

Psalm 148

• Every created thing—angels, stars, animals, kings, and children—are called to praise the Lord.
• Praise is a response to God’s majesty and mercy.
• God “has raised up a horn for His people”—this is a prophetic reference to Jesus, the Savior.

Application:

• Our lives are to be lived as praise offerings.
• When we love radically, welcome inclusively, and serve sacrificially, we declare God's glory louder than any song.
• Worship fuels mission. It’s not just singing—it’s living with purpose and passion.

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Conclusion: Love That Changes the World

This Fifth Sunday of Easter calls us to:

• Welcome the outsider like Peter did, breaking down human walls.
• Live with resurrection hope, knowing Christ is making all things new.
• Love one another deeply, as Christ has loved us.
• Praise God with our whole being, joining the symphony of creation.

God is not done. He is still working. And His plan is love unleashed, through you and me.

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Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for making all things new through Your love. Help us to love as You have loved us. Tear down the walls we’ve built, and make us one. May our lives be a song of praise to Your name. Amen.

 

 

 

 

Fifth Sunday of Easter

 If God is for us, who can be against us?

(Romans 8:31)

Promise Verse

 This is the day the Lord has made; 

let us rejoice and be glad in it.

(Psalm 118:24)

Promise Verse

 The Lord is my strength and my shield; 

my heart trusts in Him, 

and He helps me. 

My heart leaps for joy, 

and with my song I praise Him

(Psalm 28:7)

Promise Verse

 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. 

The Lord, the Lord Himself, is my strength and my defense; He has become my salvation

(Isaiah 12:2)

Bible Study - God's Guidance

 

God's Guidance

Learning to discern, trust, and follow the leading of God in every area of life.

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Scriptures

1. Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”
2. Psalm 32:8 – “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.”
3. Isaiah 30:21 – “Your ears will hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it,’ whenever you turn to the right or to the left.”
4. John 10:27 – “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.”
5. James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

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I. The Need for God’s Guidance

A. We Are Limited in Understanding

• We do not see the full picture (Isaiah 55:8–9).
• We often lean on our emotions, logic, or circumstances.

B. Life Is Filled with Critical Choices

• Career, relationships, ministry, finances, and timing all require wisdom and direction.
• Wrong turns can delay or derail destiny (cf. Israel’s wilderness journey).

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II. How God Guides Us

A. Through His Word

• Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
• God’s principles never change; His Word is the first and final authority.

B. Through the Holy Spirit

• John 16:13 – The Spirit will guide us into all truth.
• The Spirit often speaks through inner peace, conviction, or a still small voice.

C. Through Prayer and Fellowship with God

• Jesus often withdrew to pray before making decisions (Luke 6:12-13).
• Waiting on God develops sensitivity to His leading.

D. Through Godly Counsel and Confirmation

• Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”
• Mature believers, mentors, and spiritual leaders can offer clarity.

E. Through Circumstances and Open Doors

• Revelation 3:7 – “What He opens, no one can shut; and what He shuts, no one can open.”
• God uses events to align our path with His will—but never contradicting His Word.

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III. Hindrances to God’s Guidance

1. Self-will – Refusing to surrender our desires (Jonah 1).
2. Impatience – Acting before God’s timing (1 Samuel 13:8–14).
3. Sin – Disobedience dulls our spiritual hearing (Psalm 66:18).
4. Fear and Doubt – Keeping us from stepping into God’s direction (Numbers 13).

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IV. Walking in God's Guidance Daily

A. Surrender Completely

• Romans 12:1-2 – Offer your life as a living sacrifice.
• God reveals His will to hearts that are fully His.

B. Ask in Faith

• James 1:6 – Don’t doubt when you ask for wisdom.
• Expect God to lead, and be willing to obey.

C. Remain in Fellowship with Jesus

• John 15:5 – Abiding in Him helps us bear fruit and stay on the right path.

D. Wait for Peace

• Colossians 3:15 – Let the peace of Christ rule your heart.
• God’s guidance brings clarity, not confusion.

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Practical Applications

1. Before every major decision, pause and pray. Ask, “Lord, what do You want me to do?”
2. Keep a spiritual journal. Track how God speaks to you and confirms His guidance.
3. Memorize guidance-related scriptures (like Proverbs 3:5-6) to meditate on daily.
4. Practice obedience in small things. The more you obey God’s nudges, the clearer His voice becomes.
5. Spend regular time in the Word and silence. God often speaks when we’re quiet before Him.

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Prayer

Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that we need You to guide our steps. Teach us to trust You with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding. Open our ears to hear Your voice and give us courage to follow. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

 

 

 

Promise Verse

 Come to Me, 

all you who are weary and burdened, 

and I will give you rest

(Matthew 11:28)

Promise Verse

 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and 

saves those who are crushed in spirit

(Psalm 34:18)

Promise Verse

 The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. 

He cares for those who trust in Him

(Nahum 1:7)

Message - The Shepherd Who Holds Us Forever

 

The Shepherd Who Holds Us Forever

The World Needs a Shepherd

In today’s chaotic world of uncertainty, fear, and loss, we long for someone who knows us, leads us, and protects us.
The good news of Easter continues in this Fourth Sunday: Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep, calls them by name, and leads them into eternal life.
Let’s walk through these passages to see how Jesus our Shepherd sustains, leads, and secures us — not just for this life, but for eternity.

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1. Jesus Knows and Keeps His Sheep (John 10:22–30)

• The people ask Jesus, "Are you the Messiah?"
• Jesus replies: “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.” (vv. 27–28)

Key Points:

• Intimacy: “I know them” — Jesus knows you by name, by need, by nature.
• Security: “No one will snatch them” — your salvation is not held by your grip on Jesus, but His grip on you.
• Eternity: “I give them eternal life” — a promise not of temporary blessing, but forever union with the Shepherd.

In times of fear, betrayal, or confusion — rest in the truth: You are known, chosen, held, and led by Jesus Himself.

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2. The Shepherd's Presence in Suffering (Psalm 23)

Perhaps the most beloved Psalm, it’s not just poetic—it’s deeply personal.

• “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want…”
• “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil…”

Key Points:

• Provision: green pastures, still waters — Jesus satisfies our physical and spiritual needs.
• Guidance: right paths — His Word and Spirit keep us aligned.
• Companionship: "You are with me" — even in suffering, we're not abandoned.
• Victory: “Goodness and mercy shall follow me” — not just safety, but abundance and victory.

Psalm 23 isn’t a promise that we won’t walk through valleys—it’s the promise that we won’t walk alone.

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3. The Shepherd’s Eternal Care (Revelation 7:9–17)

John sees a great multitude in white robes, from every nation, standing before the throne of God.

“For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd;
he will lead them to springs of living water.
And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.” (v. 17)

 Key Points:

• Jesus, the Lamb, is also the Shepherd — the One who was slain is now the One who reigns.
• Global Salvation: people from all nations — the Shepherd calls sheep from every culture and background.
• Eternal Comfort: no more hunger, thirst, or pain — a heavenly fulfillment of Psalm 23.

One day, our Shepherd will bring us to a place where the sorrows of life are replaced by the joys of His presence forever.

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4. The Shepherd Empowers His Church (Acts 9:36–43)

In this passage, Peter raises Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead — a woman known for her kindness and generosity.

Key Points:

• The church continues the Shepherd’s ministry through compassion and miracles.
• Peter didn’t raise her by his power, but by calling upon the resurrected Christ.
• The story ends: “many believed in the Lord” — a sign that the Good Shepherd is still gathering His flock.

We are the hands and feet of the Good Shepherd — called to comfort the broken, care for the needy, and reflect His love in action.

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Conclusion:

Beloved, the Good Shepherd walks among us today:

• He knows your name (John 10),
• He walks with you through every valley (Psalm 23),
• He prepares an eternal home for you (Revelation 7),
• And He works through His people (Acts 9).

So don’t fear.
No matter the chaos around you, you are not forgotten, not alone, not unprotected.
You are in the Shepherd’s hand — and no one can snatch you away.

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Questions for Personal Study or Group Discussion

1. What does it mean to you personally that Jesus knows your name and calls you His sheep?
2. In what “valley” have you recently experienced God’s comforting presence?
3. How can you be like Dorcas — someone whose kindness and generosity reflects Jesus’ heart?
4. How does the picture in Revelation 7 give you hope and perspective for life today?

 

 

 

Fourth Sunday of Easter

 The Lord is my shepherd; 

I shall not be in want.

(Psalm 23: 1)

Promise Verse

 When I am afraid, I put my trust in You

(Psalm 56:3)

Promise Verse

 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit

(Romans 15:13)

Promise Verse

 Commit your way to the Lord; 

trust in Him and He will do this

(Psalm 37:5)

Bible Study - God Will Make a Way

 
God Will Make a Way

Even when life appears blocked by impossibilities, God — in His power, wisdom, and love — creates pathways for His people that no one else can see. He is the Way Maker, the One who brings hope, provision, and victory when all seems lost.

Isaiah 43:16-19 (ESV)

“Thus says the LORD, who makes a way in the sea, a path in the mighty waters...
Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

I. Biblical Foundations of God Making a Way

1. God Made a Way at the Red Sea – Exodus 14:13-22

• Context: Israel trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army.
• Humanly impossible situation.
• God’s Response:
  “The LORD will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.” (v.14)
  Then He parts the sea!

God can open seas that block your destiny. Your job is faith, not panic.

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2. God Provided a Way in the Wilderness – Deuteronomy 8:2-4

• 40 years in the wilderness — yet no hunger, no worn clothes, and God's guidance.
• Manna from heaven, water from a rock, shoes that didn’t wear out.

When you're in a desert season, God doesn’t abandon you — He sustains and leads you.

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3. God Made a Way Through Fire – Daniel 3:23-25

• Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego thrown into the fiery furnace.
• They were not alone — the “fourth man” (Jesus pre-incarnate) walked with them.
• They came out unburned and promoted!

Even in trials that threaten to consume you, God walks with you and brings you out better.

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II. New Testament Insights

1. Jesus – The Ultimate Way Maker – John 14:6

“I am the way, the truth, and the life.”

• Jesus is not just a guide — He is the Way!
• Through His death and resurrection, He made a way to God for all sinners.

No matter how lost you feel spiritually, Christ is the Way back to the Father.

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2. God Opens Doors No Man Can Shut – Revelation 3:7-8

“What He opens no one can shut, and what He shuts no one can open.”

• God has sovereign control over opportunities and breakthroughs.
• When God decides to move, no enemy or circumstance can stop Him.

Trust His timing. What seems closed today may be God’s preparation for a greater door tomorrow.

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III. Personal Application

How Do We Respond When There Seems to Be No Way?

1. Pray with Faith – Mark 11:24
• Ask, believe, and watch.
• God honors bold, trusting prayer.
2. Wait with Expectation – Psalm 27:14
• God’s delay is not denial.
• Waiting builds maturity and vision.
3. Obey God’s Leading – Proverbs 3:5-6
• Even if it doesn’t make sense, trust His direction.
• He may use unusual means (like ravens feeding Elijah or a fish for Jonah).

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💬 Practical Life Examples

• Unemployment? God can bring a job through unexpected connections.
• Family brokenness? God restores hearts and relationships.
• Debt or lack? God is still Jehovah-Jireh, your Provider.
• Addiction? Jesus is able to break chains and give new life.

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Conclusion:

God specializes in the impossible.
He’s not bound by human limitation, natural laws, or your past failures.

Isaiah 43:19 again:

“Behold, I am doing a new thing…
I will make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.”

Hold onto this promise. Your situation is not too far gone.
With God, there is always a way — even where there seems to be none.

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Bible Study Questions:

1. Have you ever faced a situation where you saw no way out, but God made a way?
2. What wilderness or "desert" season are you going through right now?
3. How does Isaiah 43 encourage you to trust God more deeply today?
4. What are some areas where you need to stop striving and start waiting on God's movement?

 

 

 

 

Promise Verse

 Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

(2 Thessalonians 3:16)

Promise Verse

 I can do all this through Him who gives me strength

(Philippians 4:13)

Promise Verse

 Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you

(Deuteronomy 31:6)

Third Sunday of Easter

 I will exalt you, O Lord,

because you have lifted me up 

and have not let my enemies triumph over me

(Psalm 30: 1)

Message - Restored for a Purpose

 

Restored for a Purpose

Today’s readings tell a powerful story of transformation, restoration, and calling.
God meets people not when they are perfect, but when they are broken, running, doubting, and even persecuting — and He calls them to new life and new mission.

The resurrection of Christ doesn’t just give us hope — it reshapes our lives.

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Encountering the Risen Lord (Acts 9:1-20)

Saul's Dramatic Turnaround

• Saul, breathing threats against the early church, thought he was doing God’s work.
• On the road to Damascus, Jesus confronts him: “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
• In an instant, Saul’s entire world is turned upside down. Blind. Helpless. Dependent.

Key Truths:

• God reaches us even at our worst.
• Repentance is surrender. Saul had to be led by the hand — a powerful picture of humbling.
• Transformation comes through encountering Jesus personally, not just by hearing about Him.

Application:
Are there areas in your life where you still resist surrender? Jesus wants not part of you but all of you.

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The Song of Heaven (Revelation 5:11-14)

The Lamb Is Worthy

• John sees a vision of countless angels and living creatures praising the Lamb.
• They sing:
  “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!”

Key Truths:

• Jesus is not only risen — He is glorified!
• Heaven constantly declares His worthiness.
• Our worship today is a small echo of heaven’s mighty chorus.

Application:
Is your life a daily song of gratitude to the Lamb who saved you?

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Restoration and Commissioning (John 21:1-19)

Peter’s Redemption

• Peter had denied Jesus three times.
• After the resurrection, Peter goes back to fishing — his old life — perhaps thinking he had disqualified himself.
• Jesus meets Peter on the shore, cooks him breakfast, and then asks him three times:
  “Do you love me?”

Each time, Peter responds, and Jesus restores him: “Feed my sheep.”

Key Truths:

• Jesus restores, not condemns.
• Failure is not the end — it’s the beginning when surrendered to Christ.
• Peter, once broken, becomes the rock upon which the church would be built.

Application:
Are you carrying guilt or shame? Jesus doesn’t just forgive — He restores and recommissions you for His work.

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Our Response: Singing a New Song (Psalm 30)

From Mourning to Dancing

• The psalmist sings:

“You turned my mourning into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” (v.11)

• Psalm 30 reminds us that God's mercy rewrites our stories.
• Weeping may stay for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

Application:
No matter how dark your night has been, the dawn is coming.
The resurrection proves that God always has the final word — and it is life.

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Conclusion:

Dear friends, Today we are reminded:

• Like Saul, we are transformed when we meet the Risen Lord.
• Like Peter, we are forgiven and called to serve again.
• Like the angels, we are invited to lift up worship to the Worthy Lamb.
• Like the psalmist, we are called to dance in the new life God gives.

Wherever you are today — broken, weary, ashamed, or doubting — come to Jesus.
He restores, He calls, and He sends you out in His power!

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Prayer:

“Lord Jesus, You are worthy of all our worship.
Thank You for finding us when we are lost, for lifting us up when we fall.
Restore us, transform us, and send us into the world as witnesses to Your life, Your love, and Your victory.
In Your holy name we pray, Amen.”

 

 

 

 

Promise Verse

 The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?

(Psalm 27:1)

Promise Verse

 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.

(Isaiah 43:2)

Feast of St. Philip & St. James

 Turn my eyes from watching what is worthless; 

give me life in your ways.

(Psalms 119: 37)

Bible Study - Turning to Life

 

Turning to Life: The Path of Repentance to Salvation

• Theme: Repentance is not just regret or sorrow over sin, but a transformative turning toward God, essential for receiving salvation.
• Key Scripture: “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.” — Acts 3:19 (NIV)

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What is Repentance?

Repentance (Greek: metanoia) means a change of mind and heart resulting in a change of behavior. It is a turning away from sin and turning to God.

Biblical Insights:

• 2 Corinthians 7:10 – “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.”
• Isaiah 55:6–7 – “Let the wicked forsake their ways… let them turn to the Lord…”

Reflection Questions:

• Do you see repentance as a one-time act or a lifestyle?
• What’s the difference between feeling guilty and truly repenting?

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Why is Repentance Essential for Salvation?

1. Jesus Commands It

• Mark 1:15 – “Repent and believe the good news!”
• Luke 13:3 – “Unless you repent, you too will all perish.”

2. Apostles Preached It

• Acts 2:38 – “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins.”
• Acts 17:30 – “God commands all people everywhere to repent.”

3. Repentance Prepares the Heart for Faith

• Repentance softens a hard heart to receive the message of the gospel.
• It’s the door through which we receive forgiveness, renewal, and the Holy Spirit.

Discussion Questions:

• Why do many neglect repentance today?
• How does repentance prepare us to receive God’s grace?

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Biblical Examples of Repentance Leading to Salvation

1. The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11–32)

• He recognized his sin, returned to his father, and was restored.
• Key Verse: “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you…”

2. King David (Psalm 51)

• After sinning, David sincerely repented and cried out for a clean heart.
• Psalm 51:17 – “A broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise.”

3. The People at Pentecost (Acts 2:37–41)

• After hearing Peter’s sermon, they were “cut to the heart” and asked what to do. Peter said, “Repent.”

Personal Application:

• Is there an area of your life needing genuine repentance today?
• What can you learn from these examples about how God responds?

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What Follows True Repentance?

1. Forgiveness and Cleansing

• 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful… and will purify us.”

2. A New Life

• 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “If anyone is in Christ… the old has gone, the new is here!”

3. Eternal Salvation

• Romans 10:9–10 – Confession and belief in Jesus lead to salvation.

Create a “repentance roadmap”—each person lists one thing they are turning from and one truth of God they are turning toward.

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The Invitation to Repent

Repentance is not condemnation—it’s an invitation to life. God’s arms are open. Like the father in the prodigal son story, He runs to meet us when we turn back.

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Prayer:

“Lord, thank You for Your kindness that leads me to repentance. I confess my sins and turn to You. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Help me walk in the freedom of salvation and the power of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name, Amen.”