Promise Verse

 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and 

saves those who are crushed in spirit.

(Psalm 34:18)

Promise Verse

 God is our refuge and strength, 

an ever-present help in trouble

(Psalm 46:1)

Bible Study - Preparing Ash Wednesday

 

Preparing Our Hearts for Ash Wednesday

Today is the Wednesday before Ash Wednesday, the day before we enter the season of Lent. This is a time of spiritual preparation, where we examine our hearts, reflect on our relationship with God, and commit to the Lenten practices of prayer, fasting, and repentance.

Today’s scriptures focus on three key themes:

1. Self-Examination: What Is in Our Hearts? (Luke 6:39-45)
2. Victory Over Sin and Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-58)
3. Bearing Good Fruit Through God’s Grace (Sirach 27:4-7, Psalm 92:12-15)

Let us reflect on these themes as we prepare our hearts for Ash Wednesday and the journey of Lent.

 

I. Self-Examination: What Is in Our Hearts? (Luke 6:39-45)

A. Jesus’ Teachings on the Heart

In today’s Gospel, Jesus challenges us to examine our own hearts before judging others:

“Why do you see the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log in your own eye?” (Luke 6:41)

He also says:

“Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45)

This reminds us that our words and actions reflect what is truly in our hearts.

B. Preparing Our Hearts for Lent

Lent is not just about external sacrifices like fasting or giving things up—it is about internal transformation.

• Are we truly repentant?
• Are we harboring unforgiveness or pride?
• Are we speaking words of kindness and truth?

C. The Lesson for Us

• Before correcting others, we must first examine ourselves.
• Lent is a time for deep reflection and self-examination.
• We must ask God to purify our hearts, so we can reflect His love.

What areas of my heart do I need to surrender to God before Lent begins?

 

II. Victory Over Sin and Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-58)

A. The Promise of Resurrection

Paul proclaims a powerful truth about Christ’s victory:

“Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your sting?” (1 Corinthians 15:54-55)

Because of Jesus’ death and resurrection, sin and death no longer have the final word.

B. Strength for the Lenten Journey

Lent is often seen as a season of sacrifice and struggle, but we must remember:

• We are not striving alone—God gives us victory through Christ.
• Lent is not just about sorrow, but about hope and transformation.
• The sacrifices we make should lead us closer to Christ.

C. The Lesson for Us

• We fast, pray, and repent not out of fear, but because of love and victory in Christ.
• Lent prepares us to celebrate the power of the resurrection at Easter.
• We are called to stand firm in faith and live in victory.

How can I use this Lent to grow stronger in faith and hope?

 

III. Bearing Good Fruit Through God’s Grace (Sirach 27:4-7, Psalm 92:12-15)

A. The Test of Our Character

Sirach 27 compares our words and actions to the fruit of a tree:

“The fruit of a tree shows the care it has had; so too does one's speech disclose the bent of one’s mind.” (Sirach 27:6)

Psalm 92 echoes this truth:

“The righteous flourish like a palm tree... they still bear fruit in old age.” (Psalm 92:12-14)

B. Lent: A Season of Growth

Lent is not just about removing sin, but about cultivating spiritual growth.

• What kind of fruit are we bearing in our lives?
• Are we nourishing our faith through prayer and God’s Word?
• Are we growing in holiness and love?

C. The Lesson for Us

• Lent is an opportunity to be spiritually “pruned” so we can bear good fruit.
• We should focus not just on avoiding sin, but on growing in righteousness.
• God desires that we flourish in faith, even in difficult seasons.

What spiritual “fruit” do I need to cultivate during Lent?

 

As we approach Ash Wednesday, let us commit to:
Examine our hearts and repent (Luke 6:39-45).
Stand firm in Christ’s victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:54-58).
Bear good spiritual fruit through God’s grace (Sirach 27:4-7, Psalm 92:12-15).

Lent is a journey not just of sacrifice, but of transformation. Let us approach it with sincerity, faith, and expectation that God will do a new work in our lives.

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)

Promise Verse

 And my God will meet all your needs 

according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus

(Philippians 4:19)

Feast of St Matthias, Apostle

 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, 

ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you

(John 15: 7)

Message - God’s Grace, Resurrection, and the Call to Love

 

Today’s scriptures guide us through three interconnected themes:

1. Forgiveness and God’s Providence (Genesis 45)
2. The Hope of Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15)
3. The Call to Radical Love (Luke 6)

These passages remind us that our lives are part of God’s greater plan, that suffering leads to transformation, and that we are called to forgive, love, and trust God completely.

I. Joseph’s Forgiveness: Seeing God’s Plan (Genesis 45:3-11, 15)

A. The Background

Joseph, once betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery, had endured years of hardship. But through God’s providence, he rose to power in Egypt. When famine struck, his brothers unknowingly sought food from the very brother they had wronged.

B. Joseph’s Response

Instead of seeking revenge, Joseph says:

“Do not be distressed or angry with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.” (Genesis 45:5)

Joseph recognized that God was at work in his suffering. His pain had a purpose—to save many lives.

C. The Lesson for Us

• Forgiveness is essential. Joseph did not hold onto bitterness but saw the bigger picture of God’s will.
• God can turn pain into purpose. Even when people harm us, God can use it for good (Romans 8:28).
• Reconciliation is possible. Joseph embraced his brothers, reminding us that God restores relationships.

Are there people you need to forgive and reconcile with today?

 

II. The Hope of Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50)

A. The Mystery of the Resurrection

Paul responds to questions about resurrection by using the analogy of a seed:

“What you sow does not come to life unless it dies.” (1 Corinthians 15:36)

Just as a seed dies to grow into a plant, our earthly bodies must die to be transformed into glorious bodies in the resurrection.

B. The Contrast Between the Earthly and the Heavenly Body

Paul describes two types of bodies:

1. Perishable vs. Imperishable – Our current bodies are weak, but our resurrected bodies will be eternal.
2. Dishonor vs. Glory – The new body will reflect God’s glory.
3. Mortal vs. Immortal – Death will no longer have power over us.

C. The Lesson for Us

• Our suffering is temporary. The struggles of this life prepare us for eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17).
• We must live with eternity in mind. Do not focus on the temporary, but seek things above (Colossians 3:1-2).
• Jesus is our hope. He was raised first, and we will follow Him in the resurrection.

Are you living in a way that reflects the hope of resurrection?

 

III. The Call to Radical Love (Luke 6:27-38)

A. Jesus’ Command to Love Enemies

Jesus teaches a love that goes beyond human expectations:

“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you.” (Luke 6:27-28)

This is a divine love—a love that forgives, serves, and expects nothing in return.

B. The Principle of Mercy and Giving

Jesus calls us to:

• Be merciful, just as God is merciful. (v. 36)
• Give generously, and it will be given back to you. (v. 38)

God’s love is not based on human standards but on grace and mercy.

C. The Lesson for Us

• Loving our enemies is a sign of Christ’s work in us.
• Generosity and mercy lead to blessings.
• We reflect God’s character when we forgive.

How can you show radical love this week?

 

IV. Trusting in God’s Justice (Psalm 37:1-12, 41-42)

A. Do Not Worry About the Wicked

Psalm 37 reminds us:

“Do not fret because of evildoers… for they will fade like the grass.” (v. 1-2)

God sees everything, and He will bring justice.

B. The Righteous Will Be Vindicated

“The meek shall inherit the land and delight in abundant peace.” (v. 11)

This echoes Jesus’ words in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:5), assuring us that God rewards those who trust Him.

C. The Lesson for Us

• Trust in God’s justice. We don’t need revenge; God will act in His time.
• Keep doing good. (v. 3) – Even when surrounded by wickedness, we must remain faithful.
• God will uplift the righteous. (v. 41-42)

Are you trusting in God’s justice instead of worrying about evildoers?

 

Today’s scriptures call us to a life of faith, hope, and love:

1. Like Joseph, forgive and trust God’s plan.
2. Like Paul, live in hope of resurrection.
3. Like Jesus, love unconditionally and give generously.
4. Like David in Psalm 37, trust in God’s justice.

As we leave today, let’s ask ourselves:
Who do I need to forgive?
Am I living with eternity in mind?
How can I love my enemies this week?
Do I trust in God’s justice?

May we walk in faith, hope, and love, reflecting God’s grace in all we do. Amen.

 

 

 

 

Seventh Sunday after the Epiphany

 Be still before the Lord 

and wait patiently for him.

(Psalm 37: 7)

Promise Verse

 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)

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)

Promise Verse

 If we confess our sins, 

He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins 

and purify us from all unrighteousness

(1 John 1:9)

Bible Study - Reformation

 

Reformation

The Protestant Reformation was one of the most significant religious movements in history, and at its heart was Martin Luther, a German monk, theologian, and professor. His challenge to the Catholic Church in the early 1500s sparked widespread religious, political, and social changes across Europe. Luther’s actions not only led to the formation of Protestant churches but also reshaped Christianity and the Western world.

This essay explores the causes, key events, and impacts of Martin Luther’s Reformation, showing how one man’s stand against corruption changed the course of history.

 

1. Background: The State of the Church Before Luther

A. Corruption in the Catholic Church

By the 16th century, the Roman Catholic Church had become highly influential but was also plagued by corruption. Some of the major problems included:

• Indulgences – The Church sold indulgences (documents granting forgiveness of sins) for money. This practice exploited people’s fears about the afterlife.
• Clerical Corruption – Many priests and bishops lived in wealth and immorality, ignoring their religious duties.
• Lack of Biblical Knowledge – The Bible was only available in Latin, which common people could not understand.

B. Early Calls for Reform

Before Martin Luther, figures like John Wycliffe (England) and Jan Hus (Bohemia) criticized the Church’s corruption. However, they faced persecution, and Hus was burned at the stake in 1415. Luther would succeed where they had failed, partly because of new technology like the printing press.

 

2. Martin Luther’s Challenge to the Church

A. The 95 Theses (1517)

On October 31, 1517, Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church in Germany. This document contained arguments against the sale of indulgences and other Church practices. Some key points included:

• Salvation comes by faith alone (Sola Fide), not by buying indulgences.
• The Bible is the only source of authority (Sola Scriptura), not the Pope.
• Every believer has direct access to God without needing a priest.

Luther’s 95 Theses spread quickly due to the printing press, making his ideas widely known across Europe.

B. The Church’s Reaction and Luther’s Defiance

• In 1518, the Catholic Church ordered Luther to recant his writings, but he refused.
• In 1520, Pope Leo X issued a papal bull (official decree) excommunicating Luther.
• In 1521, Luther was summoned to the Diet of Worms, where Emperor Charles V demanded that he renounce his views.
• Luther’s famous response: “Here I stand, I can do no other. So help me God.”
• Declared an outlaw, Luther went into hiding in Wartburg Castle, where he translated the Bible into German, making it accessible to the common people.

 

3. The Spread of the Reformation

A. Luther’s Teachings and New Protestant Churches

Luther’s followers began to break away from the Catholic Church and form their own Protestant congregations. His key teachings included:

• Justification by faith alone – People are saved by faith, not by works or church rituals.
• The priesthood of all believers – Every Christian has the right to read and interpret the Bible.
• Rejection of Papal authority – The Pope is not infallible and does not have supreme power over the Church.

B. Support from German Princes

Many German rulers supported Luther because rejecting the Pope allowed them to seize Church lands and gain political independence from the Holy Roman Empire.

C. The Peasants’ War (1524-1525)

Inspired by Luther’s ideas of freedom, German peasants revolted against their feudal lords, hoping for social equality. However, Luther condemned the revolt, siding with the princes. This led to a split between religious and social reformers.

 

4. The Catholic Counter-Reformation

The Catholic Church responded to the Reformation with the Counter-Reformation, which included:

1. Council of Trent (1545-1563) – A series of meetings to clarify Catholic doctrine and reform corruption.
2. Formation of the Jesuits (1534) – A group of missionaries led by Ignatius of Loyola who defended Catholic teachings.
3. The Inquisition – A campaign to punish heretics and suppress Protestant movements.

Although the Catholic Church reformed some of its corrupt practices, it did not accept Luther’s teachings.

 

5. Impact of the Reformation

A. Religious Impact

• Protestantism spread across Germany, Scandinavia, England, and Switzerland.
• Different Protestant groups emerged, such as Lutherans, Calvinists, and Anglicans.
• The Bible was translated into vernacular languages, making Christianity more personal.

B. Political Impact

• The Reformation weakened the power of the Pope and the Holy Roman Empire.
• It led to religious wars, including the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648).
• It encouraged the rise of nation-states, as rulers no longer depended on the Church.

C. Social and Cultural Impact

• Increased literacy as people were encouraged to read the Bible.
• Promoted ideas of individual freedom and responsibility.
• Laid the foundation for modern democracy and religious tolerance.

 

6. Conclusion: Martin Luther’s Legacy

Martin Luther’s Reformation changed Christianity forever. His challenge to Church corruption sparked a religious revolution, leading to the rise of Protestantism and reshaping European politics and society.

Though the Reformation led to conflicts, it also paved the way for religious freedom, education, and new ways of thinking. Today, Luther’s teachings continue to inspire millions worldwide.

Key Takeaway:

The Reformation was more than just a religious movement—it was a catalyst for change that shaped the modern world.

 

 

 

 

Promise Verse

 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, 

but gives us power, love, and self-discipline

(2 Timothy 1:7)

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

 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me

(Philippians 4:13)

Message - Trusting in God The Way to True Blessing

 

Trusting in God – The Way to True Blessing

Life is full of choices—where to place our trust, what foundation to build upon, and what hope to hold onto. The passages today reveal the contrast between trusting in human strength and trusting in God, between perishable and eternal hope, and between earthly and heavenly blessings.

1. Trusting in Man vs. Trusting in God

Jeremiah 17:5-10

A. The Curse of Trusting in Man (Jeremiah 17:5-6)

• “Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the LORD.” (v.5)
• Trusting in human strength alone leads to dryness and spiritual barrenness, like a shrub in the desert (v.6).
• No matter how capable or strong we feel, human wisdom and power are limited.

B. The Blessing of Trusting in God (Jeremiah 17:7-8)

• “But blessed is the one who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in Him.” (v.7)
• A person who trusts in God is like a tree planted by water, always nourished, bearing fruit even in tough seasons.
• This mirrors Psalm 1, where the righteous are like a tree planted by streams of water.

C. The Deceitfulness of the Heart (Jeremiah 17:9-10)

• “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (v.9)
• We often deceive ourselves, thinking we can manage life without God.
• But God examines our hearts and rewards each person accordingly (v.10).

 

2. The Foundation of Our Faith – Christ’s Resurrection

1 Corinthians 15:12-20

A. The Importance of Resurrection (1 Cor 15:12-14)

• Some in Corinth denied the resurrection of the dead. Paul argues that if the dead are not raised, then Christ is not risen!
• If Christ is not risen:
• Preaching is useless.
• Faith is empty.
• We are still in sin.

B. The Hope We Have in Christ (1 Cor 15:15-20)

• Christ’s resurrection is the guarantee of our resurrection.
• Because He lives, we will also live (John 11:25).
• Without the resurrection, Christianity has no foundation.

 

3. The True Measure of Blessing

Luke 6:17-26

A. The Beatitudes – Blessings of the Kingdom (Luke 6:20-23)

• Jesus turns the world’s values upside down:
• The poor are blessed because they inherit God’s kingdom.
• The hungry will be filled.
• Those who weep will laugh.
• Those hated for Christ will be rewarded in heaven.
• These are not just future blessings, but realities that begin now in a life surrendered to God.

B. The Woes – Warnings of False Security (Luke 6:24-26)

• Jesus warns those who trust in wealth, satisfaction, and human approval:
• The rich will lose their comfort.
• The full will hunger.
• Those who seek only worldly approval will face judgment.
• Earthly success is not the true measure of blessing—eternal security in Christ is.

 

4. The Way of the Righteous vs. the Wicked

 Psalm 1

A. The Righteous Are Blessed (Psalm 1:1-3)

• The blessed person:
• Avoids the path of sin (v.1).
• Delights in God’s Word (v.2).
• Is like a tree planted by streams of water—always fruitful and thriving.

B. The Wicked Will Perish (Psalm 1:4-6)

• The wicked are like chaff—weightless, blown away by the wind.
• Their path leads to destruction, but the Lord watches over the righteous.

 

Where Do We Stand?

1. Where is our trust? – In man or in God? (Jeremiah 17:5-10)
2. What is our foundation? – The resurrection of Christ or temporary life? (1 Cor 15:12-20)
3. What blessings are we pursuing? – Worldly comfort or eternal reward? (Luke 6:17-26)
4. Which path are we on? – The way of the righteous or the wicked? (Psalm 1)

The true blessing is found in trusting in God, anchoring our hope in Christ’s resurrection, living by kingdom values, and delighting in His Word.

Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany

 Blessed are you who weep now,

For you shall laugh.

(Luke 6: 21)

Promise Verse

 Cast all your anxiety on Him because 

He cares for you

(1 Peter 5:7)

Promise Verse

 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, 

that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life

(John 3: 16)

Promise Verse

 Do not be afraid. 

Stand firm and you will see the deliverance 

the Lord will bring you today

(Exodus 14:13)

Bible Study - Repentance

 

Repentance – A Call to Turn Back to God

Repentance is a foundational theme in the Bible, calling people to turn away from sin and return to God. It is not just feeling sorry but involves a complete transformation of heart, mind, and actions.

Acts 3:19 – “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”

The Bible uses two primary words for repentance:

Hebrew (Old Testament): Shuv – Meaning "to turn back" or "return." (Ezekiel 18:30)

Greek (New Testament): Metanoia – Meaning "a change of mind" that leads to a change in behavior. (Matthew 3:8)

True Repentance is Genuine sorrow for sin (2 Corinthians 7:10), A complete turning from sin to God (Acts 26:20) and it Leads to transformation (Romans 12:2)

False Repentance is Feeling guilty but not changing (Matthew 27:3-5 - Judas) and Regret due to consequences, not love for God (Exodus 9:27-30 - Pharaoh)

It is Commanded by God

• Mark 1:15 – “Repent and believe the gospel.”
• Acts 17:30 – “God commands all people everywhere to repent.”

It is required for Salvation

• Luke 13:3 – “Unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.”
• 2 Peter 3:9 – “God is patient… not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

Steps to True Repentance

A. Recognizing Sin

• Psalm 51:3 – “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.”
• Acknowledging our sin before God is the first step.

B. Feeling Godly Sorrow

• 2 Corinthians 7:10 – “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.”
• Genuine repentance comes from a broken heart. (Psalm 51:17)

C. Confession of Sin

• 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.”
• Confession must be sincere and specific.

D. Turning from Sin & Changing Behavior

• Isaiah 55:7 – “Let the wicked forsake his ways and the unrighteous their thoughts.”
• Acts 26:20 – “Repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with repentance.”

Biblical Examples of Repentance

A. The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)

• He recognized his sin (v. 17).
• He confessed to his father (v. 18-19).
• He returned home and changed his ways (v. 20).
• The father welcomed and restored him (v. 22-24).

B. King David (Psalm 51)

• After his sin with Bathsheba, David repented sincerely.
• He prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God” (Psalm 51:10).

C. Nineveh (Jonah 3:5-10)

• The people repented after Jonah’s warning.
• God showed mercy and spared them.

The Blessings of Repentance

1. Forgiveness of sins (Acts 3:19)
2. Restoration of relationship with God (Luke 15:22-24)
3. Spiritual renewal and joy (Psalm 51:12)
4. Freedom from sin’s power (Romans 6:6)

 

A Daily Life of Repentance

Repentance is not just a one-time event; it’s a daily practice.

🔹 Luke 9:23 – “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”

🔹 1 Corinthians 10:12 – “If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”

Practical Steps:

Examine your heart daily (Psalm 139:23-24)
Confess sins immediately (1 John 1:9)
Live by the Spirit (Galatians 5:16)

God’s grace is available to all who turn to Him. Will you repent today and follow Jesus with all your heart?

🔹 Isaiah 1:18 – “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow.”

Promise Verse

 As for God, his way is perfect: 

The Lord’s word is flawless;

He shields all who take refuge in him

(2 Samuel 22:31)

Promise Verse

 The Lord is my light and my salvation - 

whom shall I fear?

(Psalm 27:1)

Promise Verse

 For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand 

and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you

(Isaiah 41:13)

Message - The Call of God

 

The Call of God

God calls people into His service, not because of their perfection, but through His grace. Whether it is Isaiah, Paul, or Peter, each of them encountered God, were confronted with their inadequacies, and yet were transformed by grace for His purpose.

Many of us struggle with feelings of unworthiness—"I am not good enough," "I don’t have the skills," or "I have sinned too much." But today, God is reminding us that He calls the unworthy, equips them, and sends them out for His glory.

Isaiah's Vision: A Call from Holiness to Service (Isaiah 6:1-8, [9-13])

Isaiah's vision begins “In the year that King Uzziah died.” This was a time of national crisis—Uzziah had ruled for over 50 years, and his death brought uncertainty. But in that moment, Isaiah sees the Lord on the throne, high and exalted.

The Majesty of God – The seraphim cry out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty.” This triple repetition of “holy” emphasizes God’s absolute purity and power.

Isaiah’s Brokenness – Faced with divine holiness, Isaiah exclaims, “Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips.” His confession shows that true encounters with God expose our unworthiness.

A Seraphim touches his lips with a burning coal – This represents God’s cleansing power. The angel declares, “Your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for.”

Isaiah Responds to God's Call – When God asks, “Whom shall I send?” Isaiah, now cleansed and empowered, boldly responds: “Here am I. Send me!”

We may feel like we are not worthy to serve God, but God cleanses us and calls us anyway. His grace enables us to say, "Here I am, Lord, send me."

Paul’s Testimony: Grace That Transforms (1 Corinthians 15:1-11)

Paul reminds the Corinthians of the foundation of the Gospel:
Christ died for our sins
He was buried and raised on the third day
He appeared to the disciples, then to Paul

Paul calls himself “the least of the apostles”, saying:
“For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.”

Paul then makes a powerful statement:
“But by the grace of God, I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect.”

Paul was transformed from a persecutor to a preacher.
He worked harder than others, but acknowledges that it was God’s grace working through him.

Some of us feel like our past disqualifies us from serving God. But God’s grace is greater than our failures.

Peter’s Calling: From Fear to Faith (Luke 5:1-11)

Peter and his companions had fished all night and caught nothing. Yet, when Jesus tells him to “Put out into deep water and let down the nets,” Peter obeys—even though it doesn’t make sense.

The Result: Their nets are overflowing!
Peter’s Reaction: “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” – Like Isaiah, Peter realizes his unworthiness before Jesus’ power.

Instead of rejecting Peter, Jesus reassures him:
“Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.”

Peter, James, and John left everything and followed Jesus.

Sometimes God calls us to deeper waters—to places where we don’t feel comfortable. Like Peter, we must trust Him and obey.

Psalm 138 reminds us that despite our weaknesses, God fulfills His purpose in us.

“The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.” (Psalm 138:8)

Even in trouble, God preserves us.
Even when we feel weak, God strengthens us.
Even when we doubt, God's purpose remains firm.

Throughout these scriptures, we see a pattern:

A Divine Encounter – Isaiah, Paul, and Peter each had a moment where they saw God’s glory.
A Personal Realization – They all recognized their unworthiness and weakness.
A Cleansing or Transformation – God cleanses, forgives, and restores.
A Commissioning and Sending – Each one was given a mission.

God calls ordinary, broken people.
His grace transforms us and equips us.
We must step out in faith, trusting His plan.
Our response should be: "Here am I. Send me!"

May The Lord Bless You!

Fifth Sunday after Epiphany

 In the day when I cried out, You answered me,

And made me bold with strength in my soul.

(Psalm 138: 3)

Promise Verse

 The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; 

He will never leave you nor forsake you

(Deuteronomy 31:8)

Promise Verse

 The Lord will keep you from all harm -

He will watch over your life

(Psalm 121:7)

Promise Verse

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

He cares for those who trust in him

(Nahum 1:7)

Bible Study - Dual nature of Jesus Christ

 

Dual nature of Jesus Christ

One of the most profound mysteries of the Christian faith is the dual nature of Jesus Christ—He is fully God and fully man. This truth is central to our understanding of salvation, as it reveals how Jesus could bridge the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity. 

The Bible clearly teaches that Jesus is divine. He is not merely a good teacher or prophet; He is God in the flesh.

John 1:1-3: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... All things were made through Him."

Colossians 2:9: "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form."

Proofs of His Deity

He forgave sins (Mark 2:5-7), He controlled nature (Matthew 8:23-27) and He accepted worship (Matthew 28:9, John 20:28).

Since Jesus is God, He has the power to save, authority to forgive, and worthiness to be worshiped.

At the same time, Jesus is fully human. He experienced life as we do, yet without sin.

John 1:14: "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us."

Hebrews 2:17: "He had to be made like His brothers in every way, that He might become a merciful and faithful High Priest."

Proofs of His Humanity

He was born – Luke 2:7 (Born of Mary in Bethlehem), He grew and learned – Luke 2:52 (Jesus grew in wisdom and stature), He experienced human emotions - He wept (John 11:35), He felt sorrow and anguish (Matthew 26:38), He felt joy (Luke 10:21) and He suffered and died – Matthew 27:50 (On the cross, Jesus physically died).

Since Jesus is human, He understands our struggles, represents us before God, and died for our sins.

Jesus’ dual nature is essential for our salvation. As God, He has the power to save; as man, He can represent us and take our place.

Philippians 2:5-8: Jesus humbled Himself, taking on human form and obeying to the point of death on the cross.

Hebrews 2:14-15: By sharing in our humanity, Jesus defeated death and freed us from the fear of it.

Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man, is the cornerstone of our faith. His divinity ensures His power to save, and His humanity allows Him to sympathize with our weaknesses. Acknowledge Jesus as both Lord and Savior, fully God and fully man. Because He understands our struggles (Hebrews 4:15), we can approach Him with confidence. Proclaim the good news of Jesus, who bridges the gap between God and humanity.

Jesus Christ is not just part God and part man—He is fully God and fully man.

As God, He has the power to save.

As Man, He represents us and takes our place.

Because of this, we can trust Him, worship Him, and follow Him with confidence.

May The Lord Bless You!

Promise Verse

 My God is my rock, 

in whom I take refuge

(2 Samuel 22: 3)

Promise Verse

 He will not let your foot slip—

He who watches over you will not slumber.

(Psalm 121: 3)

Promise Verse

 The Lord is my strength and my defense; 

He has become my salvation

(Exodus 15:2)

Message - The Presentation of Our Lord

 

The Presentation of Our Lord

The Presentation of Our Lord (also known as Candlemas) is a celebration of Christ being brought to the temple, fulfilling both Jewish law and divine prophecy. It reveals God's faithfulness to His promises, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the redemptive mission of Jesus Christ. Through these scriptures, we see Christ as the fulfillment of prophecy, the purifier of hearts, and the one who draws us into God's presence.

1. The Fulfillment of Prophecy (Luke 2:22-40, Malachi 3:1-4)

In Luke 2, Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the Temple to fulfill the Law of Moses. This act of obedience reflects their faithfulness and underscores Jesus’ identity as the One who fulfills the Law and the Prophets.

Malachi 3:1-4 prophesied that the Lord would suddenly come to His Temple. Simeon and Anna, two faithful servants of God, recognize Jesus as the fulfillment of this prophecy. Simeon declares, "My eyes have seen your salvation" (Luke 2:30), and Anna gives thanks, proclaiming Jesus to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem (Luke 2:38).

Just as Simeon and Anna waited expectantly for the Messiah, we are called to live in anticipation of God’s promises. Are we actively seeking Jesus in our lives and recognizing His presence in our midst? God's promises are sure—though they may take time, His plan is always fulfilled.

2. The Purification and Redemption (Hebrews 2:14-18)

The Presentation of Jesus also points to His role as our Redeemer and High Priest. Hebrews 2:14-18 explains that Jesus shared in our humanity to destroy the power of death and free us from slavery to sin.

Jesus’ presentation in the Temple symbolizes His dedication to God’s purpose. Just as Mary and Joseph offered sacrifices for purification, Jesus Himself would become the ultimate sacrifice for our purification and redemption.

Jesus understands our weaknesses because He became one of us. He is our merciful High Priest who intercedes for us. Through His suffering, He helps those who are tempted.

3. The Joy of God’s Presence (Psalm 84)

Psalm 84 expresses the deep longing to dwell in God’s presence: "How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!" (Psalm 84:1). The Temple was a place where God’s presence was uniquely manifested, and the Presentation of Jesus fulfills this longing.

In Jesus, God’s presence is no longer confined to a physical temple. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus makes it possible for us to dwell in God’s presence forever.

Do we long for God’s presence as the psalmist did? Are we making space in our lives to encounter Him through prayer, worship, and His Word? The temple was the dwelling place of God, but Jesus is the true Temple—He is God dwelling among us.

Think of a candle in a dark room. The moment it is lit, the darkness is pushed back. This is what Christ does—He enters our world, our hearts, and our struggles, bringing light where there was none. Simeon saw this light in the infant Jesus. Do we recognize His light today?

The Presentation of Jesus teaches us:

1. God Fulfills His Promises – We must trust in His perfect timing.
2. Jesus Purifies and Redeems – He came to cleanse our hearts and bring us to God.
3. Jesus is the Light for All People – We are called to live in and share His light.

Spend time in prayer, thanking God for sending Jesus as our Redeemer.

Reflect on areas of your life where you need purification and bring them to Jesus.

Share the hope of Christ with someone who needs to hear it this week.

Let us, like Simeon and Anna, recognize Jesus for who He is and proclaim His salvation with joy.