Feast of St Peter & St Paul

 Preach the word! 

Be ready in season and out of season. 

Convince, rebuke, exhort, with 

all longsuffering and teaching

(2 Timothy 4: 2)

Third Sunday after Pentecost

 I cried out to God with my voice-

To God with my voice;

And He gave ear to me.

(Psalm 77: 1)

Promise Verse

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

He cares for those who trust in Him.

(Nahum 1:7)

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

 Be strong and take heart, 

all you who hope in the Lord

(Psalm 31:24)

Promise Verse

 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, 

having stood the test, that person will receive the crown 

of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him

(James 1:12)

Nativity of St. John the Baptist

 The Lord will guide you always; 

He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land 

and will strengthen your frame. 

You will be like a well-watered garden, 

like a spring whose waters never fail

(Isaiah 58:11)

Promise Verse

 Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, 

so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need

(Hebrews 4:16)

Second Sunday after Pentecost

 As the deer pants for the water brooks,

So pants my soul for You, O God.

(Psalm 42: 1)

Promise Verse

 Look to the Lord and His strength; 

seek His face always

(1 Chronicles 16:11)

Promise Verse

 But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, 

I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me

(Micah 7:7)

Promise Verse

 For we live by faith, not by sight

(2 Corinthians 5:7)

Promise Verse

 The Lord will keep you from all harm-

He will watch over your life; the Lord will 

watch over your coming and going both 

now and forevermore

(Psalm 121:7–8)

Promise Verse

 In all these things we are more than 

conquerors through Him who loved us

(Romans 8:37)

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)

Trinity Sunday

 we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 

and perseverance, [c]character; and character, hope. 

Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has 

been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

(Romans 5: 4, 5)

Promise Verse

 Those who know your name trust in you, for you, 

Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you

(Psalm 9:10)

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)

Promise Verse

 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; 

He delivers them from all their troubles

(Psalm 34:17)

Feast of St. Barnabas

 Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. 

Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves

(Matthew 10: 16)

Promise Verse

 God is our refuge and strength, 

an ever-present help in trouble

(Psalm 46:1)

Promise Verse

 So do not fear, for I am with you; 

do not be dismayed, for I am your God. 

I will strengthen you and help you; 

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand

(Isaiah 41:10)

Day of Pentecost

 indeed we suffer with Him, 

that we may also be glorified together

(Romans 8: 17)

Promise Verse

 Let us not become weary in doing good, 

for at the proper time we will reap a harvest 

if we do not give up.

(Galatians 6:9)

Promise Verse

 The Lord is my shepherd, 

I lack nothing

(Psalm 23:1)

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)

Bible Study - The Anointing of Samson

 

The Anointing of Samson — A Story of Calling, Failure, and Redemption

Key Texts:

• Judges 13:1–25 – The birth and calling of Samson
• Judges 14–16 – Samson’s fall and restoration
• Supporting Scriptures: Romans 11:29, Galatians 6:7-9, 2 Timothy 2:13

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I. INTRODUCTION

Opening Statement:
Samson’s life is one of the most striking stories in the Bible — marked by divine calling, supernatural strength, tragic compromise, and amazing redemption. His life reminds us that God’s call is powerful, but our choices matter. Yet even when we fall, God’s mercy can still work through brokenness.

---

II. THE ANOINTING OF SAMSON (Judges 13)

A. A Divine Calling Before Birth

• Judges 13:3–5: An angel of the Lord appeared to Manoah’s wife and foretold Samson’s birth.
• God gave clear instructions: He was to be a Nazirite, set apart from birth.
• The anointing started in the womb — a prophetic picture of divine purpose.

Application:
God’s calling on your life starts before you are born (Jeremiah 1:5). Every believer is set apart for God's purpose.

B. Empowered by the Spirit

• Judges 13:24-25: “The Spirit of the Lord began to stir him…”
• Samson was not just naturally strong; he was empowered by the Spirit for a divine mission — to begin the deliverance of Israel from the Philistines.

Application:
True anointing is not talent — it’s God's Spirit enabling you for His purpose.

---

III. SAMSON’S FALL: FROM ANOINTED TO ENSLAVED (Judges 14–16)

A. Disobedience and Distraction

• Samson pursued a Philistine woman against his parents’ godly counsel (Judges 14:1-3).
• He broke Nazirite vows — touching dead things, drinking, and uniting with ungodly people.

Application:
Anointing does not protect you from consequences. Compromise will drain your calling.

B. The Seduction of Delilah

• Judges 16:4–21: Delilah represents persistent temptation that eventually wears down resolve.
• Key verse: Judges 16:20 – “He did not know that the Lord had left him.”

Tragic Moment:
Samson thought he still had the power — but the presence was gone.

Application:
You can’t live in sin and carry the Spirit’s power. If we continually resist the Spirit, we lose sensitivity to Him.

---

IV. GOD’S MERCY AND RESTORATION (Judges 16:22-30)

A. A Turning Point

• Judges 16:22 – “But the hair on his head began to grow again…”
• Hair was symbolic of the Nazirite vow and the return of strength.
• Though blinded and imprisoned, Samson repented and cried out to God.

Application:
No matter how far you've fallen, if you turn back to God, He can still use you.

B. Final Act of Power

• Judges 16:28 – “O Sovereign Lord, remember me… strengthen me just once more.”
• God answered. Samson killed more Philistines in death than in life.

Key Message:
God’s grace restores the repentant heart. His purposes can still be fulfilled, even through broken vessels.

---

V. LESSONS FOR US TODAY

1. God Has Anointed Every Believer

• You are set apart for a holy purpose (1 Peter 2:9).
• Don't take the anointing lightly — honor it through obedience.

2. Compromise Leads to Loss

• Sin will blind you, bind you, and grind you (Judges 16:21).
• Guard your heart. Stay sensitive to the Spirit.

3. Restoration Is Possible

• God’s mercy is greater than your failure (Romans 11:29 – “The gifts and calling of God are irrevocable”).
• If you’ve fallen, God can raise you again.

---

VI. CONCLUSION

Closing Thought:
Samson’s story is not just a tragedy — it’s a testimony of redemption. He lost his strength, his sight, and his status — but not his calling. When he turned to God, he finished his race with purpose.

Call to Action:
Are you walking in your anointing, or have you wandered? Today is the day to come back to your divine calling. God’s power is still available to those who will humble themselves and repent.

---

VII. PRAYER

“Lord, like Samson, we acknowledge our weakness. Thank You for Your mercy that calls us back. Restore our hearts, revive our purpose, and empower us again by Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

Promise Verse

 I can do all this through Him 

who gives me strength

(Philippians 4:13)

Promise Verse

 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. 

They will soar on wings like eagles; 

they will run and not grow weary, 

they will walk and not be faint.

(Isaiah 40:31)

Promise Verse

 

Message - Unity, Joy, and the Hope of Glory

 

Unity, Joy, and the Hope of Glory

On this final Sunday of Easter, the Church celebrates the victory of the risen and ascended Christ, His unity with the Father and believers, and the living hope of His return. This sermon invites believers to live in the power of the resurrection, embrace the mission of unity and witness, and remain joyful in all circumstances.

---

SERMON OUTLINE:

I. The Prayer of Christ for Us – John 17:20–26

Theme: Unity in Christ for the glory of God.

Key Points:

• Jesus prays not only for His disciples but for all who will believe (v.20) — that includes you and me.
• “That they may all be one…so that the world may believe” (v.21).
• Jesus links unity with mission. The world will believe when it sees a united Church reflecting the love of the Triune God.
• He gives us His glory (v.22) — not earthly fame, but the beauty of being filled with God's presence and character.

Application:

• The unity of believers is not optional — it's a witness to the world.
• Seek reconciliation, collaboration, and humility in your church and Christian relationships.

Prayer Point:

“Lord, make us one, so the world may see Your love through us.”

---

II. The Power of Praise in Prison – Acts 16:16–34

Theme: Joy in suffering, salvation in unexpected places.

Context:

• Paul and Silas, imprisoned after casting out a demon, were beaten and bound.
• Instead of despairing, they prayed and sang hymns at midnight (v.25).
• God intervened with an earthquake, opening prison doors.

Lessons:

• Joy and praise in suffering is a testimony that opens hearts — the jailer asks, “What must I do to be saved?” (v.30).
• Salvation came to the jailer and his household — God works in unlikely places when we remain faithful.

Application:

• Your worship in hard times can break spiritual chains — for you and others.
• Don’t wait for perfect conditions to witness — even prisons become pulpits.

Prayer Point:

“Lord, give me a heart that praises You in every situation.”

---

III. The Invitation and Promise – Revelation 22:12–14, 16–17, 20–21

Theme: Jesus is coming soon – are we ready?

Key Verses:

• “Behold, I am coming soon” (v.12, 20) – Jesus’ return is not a myth or metaphor but a sure hope.
• “Blessed are those who wash their robes…” (v.14) – Holiness matters; righteousness prepares us for the wedding of the Lamb.
• The Spirit and the Bride say, ‘Come’” (v.17) – There is still an open invitation to salvation.

Application:

• Live with urgency and expectancy — every day is a chance to draw closer to Jesus and invite others to Him.
• Be a voice that echoes heaven’s call: Come to Jesus!

Prayer Point:

“Come, Lord Jesus! Help me to be ready and help others prepare for Your return.”

---

IV. The Reign of the Righteous King – Psalm 97

Theme: God reigns now and forever.

Highlights:

• “The Lord reigns; let the earth rejoice” (v.1) — God's rule brings justice, righteousness, and joy.
• His glory causes even the idols to fall (v.7).
• The righteous are called to rejoice in the Lord and give thanks to His holy name (v.12).

Application:

• Trust God’s sovereign rule, even when the world looks chaotic.
• Rejoicing is not based on circumstances but on the unchanging character of God.

Prayer Point:

“Lord, reign in my heart as You reign in heaven. Let Your justice and joy be seen in my life.”

---

CONCLUSION: Living the Easter Life While Waiting for His Return

As Eastertide concludes and we look toward Pentecost:

• Live in unity (John 17) — so the world may see God.
• Walk in joyful obedience (Acts 16) — praise unlocks power.
• Carry the urgency of Christ’s return (Rev. 22) — invite others to the water of life.
• Rejoice in God’s eternal kingship (Psalm 97) — no matter what happens on earth.

---

Summary Table:

Text	Theme	Takeaway
John 17:20–26	Christ’s prayer for unity and love	Be united for the world to see God’s love.
Acts 16:16–34	Joyful witness in suffering	Worship through pain; witness at all times.
Revelation 22:12–21	Christ’s return and invitation	Be ready and keep inviting others.
Psalm 97	The Lord reigns — rejoice!	Trust His justice; rejoice in His sovereignty.

---

Closing Challenge:

Are you living the resurrection life?
Are you walking in unity, worship, hope, and joy?

“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” — Revelation 22:20

 

 

 

 

Seventh Sunday of Easter

 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead

(1 Peter 1:3)

Feast of The Visitation

 No one is holy like the Lord,

For there is none besides You,

Nor is there any rock like our God

(1 Samuel 2: 2)

Promise Verse

 And we know that in all things 

God works for the good of those who love Him, 

who have been called according to His purpose

(Romans 8:28)

Bible Study - Ascension Day

 

Christ Ascended: Our Hope, Power, and Mission

Ascension Day commemorates Jesus Christ's bodily ascent into heaven 40 days after His resurrection. It affirms His divine authority, His ongoing heavenly intercession, and His promise to return. It also marks the Church's commissioning for mission in the power of the Holy Spirit.

---

PART 1: Acts 1:1–11 — Christ Ascended and the Call to Witness

Key Observations:

• Verse 3: Jesus appeared for 40 days after resurrection, offering many proofs and teaching about the kingdom.
• Verse 6–7: Disciples still hoped for political restoration; Jesus redirects their focus to spiritual mission.
• Verse 8: The central verse — “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes… and you will be my witnesses.”
• Verse 9–11: Jesus is taken up, and two angels affirm He will return in the same way.

Reflection:

• The Ascension confirms Jesus' enthronement at the right hand of the Father.
• It shifts the Church from watching to witnessing.

Application:

• Live in anticipation of Christ’s return, but don’t stare at the sky—fulfill your mission on earth.
• Rely on the Holy Spirit, not your own strength.

---

PART 2: Ephesians 1:15–23 — The Exalted Christ and the Church’s Power

Key Observations:

• Verses 17–18: Paul prays for spiritual wisdom and enlightenment for believers to know:
1. The hope of God’s calling
2. The riches of our inheritance
3. The greatness of God’s power toward us
• Verses 20–21: This power is the same power that raised Christ and seated Him above all rule and authority.
• Verse 22–23: Christ is head over all things for the Church, His body.

Reflection:

• Ascension is not absence—Christ is now present in power through the Church.
• We don’t operate from weakness, but from resurrection power.

Application:

• Stop living defeated—know the power at work in you.
• The Church must act under Christ’s authority and reflect His fullness.

---

PART 3: Luke 24:44–53 — The Ascended Christ Sends and Blesses

Key Observations:

• Verse 45: Jesus opens the minds of the disciples to understand Scripture.
• Verse 47: The core of the Gospel — repentance and forgiveness to be proclaimed to all nations.
• Verses 49–53: Jesus promises the Holy Spirit. The disciples worship joyfully even as He ascends.

Reflection:

• The resurrection makes sense of Scripture; the ascension propels mission.
• Their worship marks a turning point from fear to bold joy.

Application:

• Ask Jesus to open your understanding of the Word.
• Live with joy in worship and readiness in mission.

---

PART 4: Psalm 47 / Psalm 93 — God Reigns as King

Psalm 47 Highlights:

• “God has gone up with a shout… Sing praises to our King” (v.5–6)
• Emphasizes God’s universal reign and sovereignty.

Psalm 93 Highlights:

• “The LORD reigns, He is robed in majesty…”
• Emphasizes God’s eternal authority and unshakable rule.

Reflection:

• The ascension is the King’s coronation—He reigns not just in heaven but over earth.
• Our worship joins with heaven in acknowledging Christ as King.

Application:

• Let praise be our response to the risen and reigning King.
• Trust in His rule even in uncertain earthly times.

---

Summary Table

Text	Theme	Practical Lesson
Acts 1:1–11	Jesus ascends, Church sent	Be a witness empowered by the Spirit
Ephesians 1:15–23	Christ reigns over all	Walk in hope and resurrection power
Luke 24:44–53	Joyful mission begins	Embrace the Word and worship
Psalm 47 / 93	God reigns forever	Praise with assurance of His rule

---

Ascension Day reminds us:

• Christ is not absent—He is enthroned and working through His Church.
• The Church is not weak—it is filled with resurrection power.
• The mission is not over—until He returns, we witness with joy.

 

 

 

Ascension Day

 For God is King of all the earth; 

sing praises with all your skill.

(Psalm 47: 7)

Promise Verse

 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and 

lean not on your own understanding; 

in all your ways submit to Him, 

and He will make your paths straight

(Proverbs 3:5–6)

Promise Verse

 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, 

for His compassions never fail. 

They are new every morning; 

great is Your faithfulness

(Lamentations 3:22–23)

Promise Verse

 I keep my eyes always on the Lord. 

With Him at my right hand, I will not be shaken

(Psalm 16:8)

Message - God Makes a Way

 God Makes a Way: The Open Heart, the Open Vision, and the Open Heaven

As we move deeper into the Easter season, the lectionary invites us to reflect on how God continues His redemptive mission through Christ’s resurrection power, the witness of the apostles, and the work of the Holy Spirit. Today’s readings highlight the expansion of the Gospel, the hope of God’s eternal kingdom, and the peace and presence of Christ with His people.

---

I. The Open Vision – Acts 16:9–15

Paul receives a vision in the night – a Macedonian man pleading, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” In obedience, Paul travels to Philippi, where he meets Lydia, a Gentile businesswoman whose heart God opens.

Key Themes:

• Divine Guidance: God leads His servants through visions, nudging them toward people ready for the Gospel.
• Obedience in Mission: Paul immediately changes course – the early Church was spirit-led and flexible.
• Open Hearts: Lydia's heart was opened by God – the miracle of salvation is always God-initiated.

Are we sensitive to God's leading like Paul? Is our heart open to unexpected opportunities like Lydia’s?

---

II. The Open Heaven – Revelation 21:10, 22–22:5

John sees the New Jerusalem coming down from heaven. There is no temple in the city because God Himself and the Lamb are its temple. The river of life flows, and the tree of life brings healing to the nations.

Key Themes:

• God Dwelling Among His People: No more separation between the divine and human – perfect communion.
• Light and Life: There’s no night – God's glory shines forever. The curse is reversed.
• Healing of Nations: The Gospel isn’t only personal, it’s cosmic and restorative.

Application:

Do we live with a heavenly mindset, longing for God’s future kingdom while living faithfully today?

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III. The Abiding Presence – John 14:23–29

Jesus is preparing His disciples for His departure. He promises that those who love Him will keep His word, and that the Father and the Son will make their home with them. He also promises the Holy Spirit, the Comforter.

Key Themes:

• Obedient Love: Love is shown in obedience to Jesus' word, not just emotional devotion.
• The Indwelling Presence: God doesn’t just visit us—He dwells with us through the Holy Spirit.
• Christ’s Peace: The peace Jesus gives is not circumstantial, but spiritual and eternal.

Application:

Are we cultivating a heart that loves Jesus enough to obey Him? Are we letting the Holy Spirit teach and remind us daily?

---

IV. The Global Blessing – Psalm 67

Psalm 67 echoes the priestly blessing (Numbers 6:24–26), asking for God's face to shine on His people so that His way may be known among all nations.

Key Themes:

• Mission-Minded Worship: The purpose of God’s blessing is to spread His salvation.
• Universal Praise: The psalm looks forward to a time when all nations will rejoice in God's justice.

Application:

Is our Christian life attractive and witnessing? Do our lives reflect God’s blessing in a way that draws others to Him?

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Summary

Text	Theme	Application
Acts 16:9–15	God guides and opens hearts	Be open to God's direction
Revelation 21	The glory of the New Jerusalem	Live with eternal hope
John 14:23–29	Christ's indwelling presence	Obey in love; walk with peace
Psalm 67	God's blessing for the nations	Live to make God known

---

Called to Be Open

This Sunday calls us to:

• Open our hearts like Lydia
• Open our ears to the Spirit like Paul
• Open our lives to obedience like the disciples
• Open our vision to God's coming kingdom

---

Prayer

“Lord, open our eyes to see the vision You have for us. Open our ears to hear the Spirit’s leading. Open our hearts to receive Your Word, and open our lives to share Your love with the world. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

 

 

Sixth Sunday of Easter

 May God give us his blessing,

and may all the ends of the earth stand in awe of him.

(Psalm 67: 7)

Promise Verse

 You will keep in perfect peace those 

whose minds are steadfast, 

because they trust in You

(Isaiah 26:3)

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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.

---

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).

---

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.”