Rev. Tse Amable | October 11 2025 | Acts 17:22-31   KEY VERSE: “. . . The GOD who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and DOES NOT LIVE IN TEMPLES BUILT BY HANDS .” (Acts 17:24 , NIV) MESSAGE:   In his zeal to discourage idol worship and to teach the worship of the only true and living God, Apostle Paul declared that God does not dwell in temples built by human hands.  He went on to state that the Lord God “is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else” (Acts 17:25 NIV) . The statement that God does not live in temples built by human hands was one of the submissions Stephen made to the angry Jewish leaders who were ready to stone him to death (see Acts 7:48). Both Stephen and Paul were quoting from the word of Jehovah, which was spoken through the Prophet Isaiah (see Isaiah 66:1-2).   This statement has two sides. First, the Lord God does not live in houses built by human hands because He is too great to be confined to any building.  Before he created the heavens and the earth, Elohim had pre-existed. Genesis, the book of beginnings, opened with this declaration: “ IN THE BEGINNING, GOD ...” The Creator God is self-sufficient in everything and does not need anything from us. Moreover, THE BIG AND ALMIGHTY GOD is Omnipresent (he is everywhere at the same time) and therefore cannot be restricted to any single place on planet earth. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on the beautiful creations of God, such as birds, exotic fish, and flowers in the field. Can any temple, sanctuary, or chapel built by human beings compare with the elegance of God’s creation? Do not boast about how magnificent your chapel or sanctuary is. Instead, boast about how awesome your God is. PRAYER: Use the following lyrics to worship the Lord:   When through the woods, and forest glades I wander, And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees. When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze. Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee, How great Thou art, How great Thou art. Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee, How great Thou art, How great Thou art!   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 284 Jeremiah 41-45 – Disobedience in the Face of Warning DAILY word study: TEMPLES The word temples comes from the Greek word naos (ναός), which means a dwelling place or sanctuary. In ancient times, the naos referred to the inner part of a sacred structure — the place thought to house the presence of a deity. Paul uses this term intentionally to teach that the true dwelling of God is not in structures made by people, but in His creation and His people themselves. This truth echoes throughout Scripture. In 1 Corinthians 6:19, Paul reminds believers that their bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. God no longer resides in stone buildings but within hearts that love and obey Him. Reflect on this: How do you honour God as His living temple in your daily actions, choices, and relationships?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 10 2025 | Acts 17:22-31   KEY VERSE: “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth. ” (Acts 17:24 , NIV) MESSAGE:   In his presentation to the Areopagus, Apostle Paul boldly and confidently revealed the Lord God as THE CREATOR. Taking his notes from Genesis chapter 1, he declared that “from one man he (Elohim) made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live” (Acts 17:26 NIV). That is what we read from Genesis 1:1, which says “GOD CREATED MAN IN HIS OWN IMAGE, IN THE IMAGE OF GOD HE CREATED HIM; MALE AND FEMALE HE CREATED THEM” (Genesis 1:27 NIV). King David, in many of the psalms he wrote, corroborated that truth. For example, in Psalms 139:14-15, he wrote, “ I   praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth ”.   One truth which must be preached from all pulpits and proclaimed on every platform – radio, television, Internet and social media – is the truth that an Omniscient and Omnipotent God created this world and everything (both visible and invisible) in it. If we do not rise to teach faith in a CREATOR GOD, we leave truth seekers at the mercy of liars who teach the evolution theory, which states that populations of organisms change over time, descending from common ancestors through a process called natural selection.   You did not evolve from an ape. YOU WERE FEARFULLY AND WONDERFULLY CREATED BY ELOHIM, THE ONLY WISE GOD. That is what the Bible says. Science can only UNCOVER the truth. Therefore, any theory that denies the creation account is heretical. KNOW GOD, BELIEVE IN HIM AS THE CREATOR AND WORSHIP HIM. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How can Christians today defend the creation account as written in Genesis chapter 1 in the light of scientific discoveries that are being published and presented to the world? Apostle Paul was a very knowledgeable defender of the truth. He could teach with such confidence because he studied diligently and presented himself as approved to God as a workman who did not need to be ashamed, but accurately handling the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). May we follow his example. PRAYER: Lord, I give you praise, worship and adoration as my Creator. You determined the times set for all human beings and the exact places where we should live. Teach us to know you and live for you. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen!   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 283 Jeremiah 36-40 – The Cost of Ignoring God’s Word DAILY word study EVERYTHING The word everything in Acts 17:24 comes from the Greek panta, meaning all things collectively — the totality of creation. Paul used this word to emphasise that nothing in existence lies outside God’s creative hand. The stars, the earth, the air we breathe — all belong to Him. God is not part of creation; He is Lord over all creation. When we say “everything,” we affirm that no part of life is random or self-made — it all flows from the Creator’s wisdom and purpose. Reflect on this: If God made everything, including you, what does that say about how you should live, think, and care for His world?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 9 2025 | Acts 17:22-31   KEY VERSE: “What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you . ” (Acts 17:23b , ESV) MESSAGE:   In Athens, Apostle Paul saw that among the many idols that the Athenians worshipped, there was also “AN UNKNOWN GOD” who was worshipped. Apostle Paul believed this UNKNOWN GOD was the only TRUE and LIVING GOD, THE CREATOR OF ALL THINGS and therefore proceeded to reveal him to the Athenians. In his discourse with the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s Well, Jesus Christ said, “You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know” (John 4:22, NIV). One of the reasons God the Father sent God the Son to the earth was for the Son to reveal who the Father is. In his long prayer to the Father, Jesus Christ said, “This is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent” (John 17:3, NIV). Many centuries before Jesus Christ came to the earth, King Solomon wrote “.... knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10 NIV). Prophet Isaiah also prophesied “.... the earth will be full of the knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea” (Isaiah 11:9, NIV). Through sound biblical teaching, people can be helped to know the only true and living God, so that they can worship Him correctly. But as Apostle Paul rightly asserted, people can only believe in the one of whom they have heard, and they can only hear when someone preaches to them (Romans 10:14). Therefore, teach those who desire to worship the Lord but do not have the true knowledge of him. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you see the multiplicity of idols, shrines, occult groups, new age religion, etc., as a call of God to teach the truth about him? The activities of false teachers who spread heresies can be curbed when those who know the truth are bold enough to teach the truth. PRAYER: Lord, I surrender myself as a vessel that you will use to teach truth seekers who lack the knowledge of you, so that they can worship you in the right way. May the words of my mouth bring light into the heart of someone and reveal Jesus Christ as “the way, the truth and the life”. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 282 Jeremiah 31-35 – The God Who Restores and Requires Obedience DAILY word study: KNOW The word “know”  in the New Testament often comes from the Greek word ginōskō (γινώσκω) , which means to understand, to recognise, or to come to know through experience. It describes more than head knowledge — it’s a deep, personal awareness that grows through relationship. Paul wanted the Athenians to move from worshipping what they didn’t know to truly knowing the God who gives life. To know  God is to experience His truth, love, and power daily through Jesus Christ. Reflect on This: How well do you know God — not just about Him, but in your personal walk and experience with Him?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 8 2025 | Acts 17:22-31   KEY VERSE: “For as I WALKED AROUND AND LOOKED CAREFULLY AT YOUR OBJECTS OF WORSHIP, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. .... . ” Acts 17:23   (NIV) MESSAGE:   The Great Commission Jesus Christ gave to his disciples (and by extension, to the church today) is to “GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS” Matthew 28:19 (NIV). That makes the entire world our mission field and will take us into territories we are not familiar with. To be successful in carrying out the Great Commission, we must make a conscientious effort to become acquainted with the mission field – including the people groups, their cultures, and other relevant aspects. This is what Apostle Paul did. He told the Athenians that he *walked around and looked carefully at their objects of worship." This is the approach we should all adopt. Before entering an area for an open-air crusade or house-to-house witnessing, take the time to get to know the people and the community. It helps because it gives you answers to some questions. It guides you out of potentially dangerous zones. It tells you what conduct, dressing, etc., is acceptable in that community. Thankfully, today we have online resources available to help us obtain information about the areas we are entering for evangelism and church planting. One very useful resource is THE JOSHUA PROJECT. This evangelical Christian organisation seeks to coordinate the work of missionary organisations to track the ethnic groups of the world with the fewest followers of evangelical Christianity. To do so, it maintains ethnological data to support Christian missions. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What effort do you put into gathering information and data about the people you intend to reach with the gospel of Christ? The Bible says, “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge” Hosea 4:6 (NIV). Gaining advanced knowledge before entering a mission field can save your life. Therefore, do advance research and be informed and educated. PRAYER: Father, I pray that you will cause me to use every means available, including the revelation of the Holy Spirit, to collect useful data and information about the people you have put on my heart to reach out to with the gospel of Jesus Christ. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 281 Jeremiah 26-30 – Hope in the Midst of Opposition DAILY word study : UNKNOWN The word “unknown” in Acts 17:23 is from the Greek agnōstos (ἀγνῶστος), meaning “not known, unfamiliar, or unrecognised.” Paul used the Athenians’ altar to “an unknown god” as a bridge to introduce them to the true and living God. The word reminds us that what people do not yet know about God becomes our opportunity to share Him. Knowledge of people opens the door for revelation about Christ. Reflect on This: What opportunities might God be giving you to make the “unknown” known — to reveal His truth to those around you?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 7 2025 | Acts 17:22-31 KEY VERSE: “Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “Men of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. ” Acts 17:22   (NIV) MESSAGE:   When Apostle Paul opened his mouth to address THE Areopagus, the words which proceeded from his mouth were characterised by wisdom and tactfulness. He began by telling the Athenians that he saw them as being “VERY RELIGIOUS”. To me, Apostle Paul was very diplomatic in defending his faith and presenting the gospel to this very powerful audience. He chose words that “broke the ice” and set the stage for what would follow later. It did not mean Apostle Paul was intimidated and “watered down” the gospel. He used words which relaxed his audience and made them yearn to listen for more. We need wisdom and tact when presenting the gospel to people who are hostile. Our aim is to capture their attention so that we can share the gospel about Jesus Christ with them. If faith comes by hearing the word of God, we should create a conducive atmosphere, free from tension and acrimony, in which our targeted groups can hear the gospel preached to them in a way they can understand. What they do with what we tell them is between them and the Lord.  Keep in mind the promise of the Lord. He said, When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.” Luke 12:11-12 (NIV). Be diplomatic in your witness for Jesus Christ. Speak in a way that will make it easy for your audience to hunger for the word. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What will you do to “disarm” a hostile audience so that you can have their attention? Apostle Paul told the Athenians what he saw about them. Do you take time to study the culture, traditions and norms of the people you intend to reach with the gospel in order to make your presentation culturally relevant to them? How can you acknowledge culture and tradition without “diluting” the gospel? PRAYER: Father, I pray that you give me wisdom to know how to present the gospel to the lost, taking into consideration the culture and tradition of my targeted audience. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 280 Jeremiah 21-25 – Voices Before the Fall DAILY word study: RELIGIOUS The word Religion translated in Greek as deisidaimōn combines deido (to fear or show reverence) and daimōn (a divine being or spirit). It can describe someone who is devout or, in another sense, superstitious — depending on the speaker’s tone. Paul’s use of this word in Acts 17:22 was wise and respectful. Instead of condemning the Athenians for their idol worship, he acknowledged their spiritual interest. By doing so, he opened their hearts to hear the truth about the one true God. His choice of words reflected both sensitivity and strategy — the mark of a true witness guided by the Spirit. Reflect on this: How can you speak truth with grace in a world that misunderstands faith?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 6 2025 | Acts 17:22-31   KEY VERSE: “Paul then stood up in the meeting of the AREOPAGUS and said .....” Acts 17:22   (NIV) MESSAGE:   When Apostle Paul saw the level of idolatry in Athens, he was greatly distressed and decided to do something – preach and teach Jesus Christ. The Bible says he “REASONED IN THE SYNAGOGUE with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as IN THE MARKETPLACE day by day with those who happened to be there.” Acts 17:17 (NIV). He went everywhere to preach. The people in authority in Athens heard about Paul and therefore took him and brought him to a meeting of the AREOPAGUS, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we want to know what they mean” Acts 17:19-20 (NIV). THE AREOPAGUS refers to both the geographical "Mars Hill" in Athens and the esteemed judicial and legislative council that met there in ancient Greece. The council, also known as the Areopagus, served as Athens' highest governmental and judicial body, overseeing significant legal and philosophical matters, including criminal cases. In today’s situation in Ghana, we will say Paul was brought before a meeting of the Cabinet and the Supreme Court. The equivalent in Jerusalem would be THE SANHEDRIN. This was a powerful group of powerful and highly-placed state officials, which would scare anybody and could change your sleeping place (imprison you). However, the Bible states, “Paul then stood up in the meeting of the AREOPAGUS and said ....” He was not afraid nor ashamed to preach and teach the gospel because he knew it was “the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last,....” Romans 1:16-17 (NIV). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do not be afraid to stand up before any council of Presidents, Prime Ministers, ministers of state, kings, queens, justices, etc. and preach the gospel. They, too, need salvation. STAND UP TO MAKE A DEFENCE OF YOUR FAITH EVERYWHERE. PRAYER: Father, I confess that it is not easy to share my faith with some category of people, especially persons who are deemed to be “know all”. Please give me boldness and wisdom to defend Jesus Christ when hostile unbelievers confront me. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 279: Jeremiah16-20 - Living the Message DAILY word study: STOOD The word stood in Acts 17:22 comes from the Greek word histēmi, which means to stand firm, to be established, or to take one’s place. When Paul “stood up” before the Areopagus, it was a statement of courage. He took his place as God’s messenger before powerful people who didn’t believe in Christ. His standing was both literal and spiritual — a stand for truth in a world full of idols and ideas. To “stand” in faith means to be firm in what you believe, unshaken by fear or opinion. Like Paul, take your place with confidence wherever God gives you a voice. Reflect on this: Where has God placed you to take a stand for Him today? It might not be before rulers or scholars, but your courage to speak the truth — in your home, school, or workplace — is just as powerful. Standing firm in faith is how the gospel continues to reach new hearts.

Rev. Tse Amable | October 5 2025 | Acts 17:16-21   KEY VERSE: “. . . Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” THEY SAID THIS BECAUSE PAUL WAS PREACHING THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT JESUS AND THE RESURRECTION” Acts 17:18   (NIV) MESSAGE:   When Paul decided to address the limited penetration of the gospel message in Athens, he engaged with some of the leading thinkers and philosophers of that generation. The Bible says, “all the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas” Acts 17:21 (NIV). This was the audience that Apostle Paul faced with great confidence and boldness.     EPICUREANS are followers of Epicurus (an ancient philosopher), and they believe that happiness comes from moderation, simplicity, friendship, and community. A STOIC is someone who shows remarkable calm, fortitude, and control over their emotions and desires, particularly in the face of adversity or loss. They endure hardship without complaint, accepting what they cannot control and focusing on what they can. These were the philosophers who were debating Paul as he preached the simple message about Jesus and the resurrection. To them, Paul seemed to be advocating the worship of foreign gods.     Apostle Paul seized the opportunity to share the good news with them. He was not overawed by these philosophers and their doctrines on life. He simply shared the gospel with them in the power of the Holy Spirit. That is the example we too must emulate to simply share Christ with unbelievers in the power of the Holy Spirit and leave the results to the Lord. THAT IS SUCCESS IN WITNESSING. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you afraid of sharing your faith with philosophers, professors and so-called “LEARNED PEOPLE”? Fear not! The Holy Spirit will give you what to say when you are before people who must be told the word of God. All that the Lord requires from you is to dare to step forward, open your mouth and begin to share what you know. PRAYER: Father, I confess that it is not easy to share my faith with some category of people, especially persons who are deemed to be “know all.” Please give me boldness and wisdom to defend Jesus Christ when hostile unbelievers confront me. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 278: Jeremiah 11-15 - When the Covenant Is Broken DAILY word study : ADVOCATING The word advocating in Acts 17:18 comes from the Greek word katangellō, which means to proclaim, announce, or declare publicly. In Athens, the philosophers said Paul “seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They misunderstood him because he boldly preached about Jesus and the resurrection. To advocate in this sense means to speak with conviction about what one believes. Paul wasn’t promoting new gods — he was proclaiming the truth of the risen Christ. His message was clear and unwavering, even among intellectuals who mocked him. Reflect on this: When you speak about Jesus, you too become His advocate — one who publicly stands for His truth.

Rev. Tse Amable | October 4 2025 | Acts 17:16-21   KEY VERSE: “While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols” Acts 17:16   (NIV) MESSAGE:   When commotion erupted in Berea, the believers did a great job by escorting Apostle Paul out of “the fire” and bringing him to a safe place in Athens. The chronicler made us know that while Paul was waiting for the rest of his team members to join him, he took time to look around the city and WHAT HE SAW GREATLY DISTRESSED HIM. HE SAW THAT THE CITY WAS FULL OF IDOLS. He could not remain silent, so he took action based on what he saw. The Bible says, “ HE REASONED in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there ” Acts 17:17 (NIV).   Many years ago, the Lord instructed Prophet Ezekiel to “ go throughout the city of Jerusalem and put a MARK ON THE FOREHEADS OF THOSE WHO GRIEVE AND LAMENT OVER ALL THE DETESTABLE THINGS THAT ARE DONE IN IT”  Ezekiel 9:4 (NIV). After that command, we read the following: “As I listened, he said to the others, ‘ Follow him through the city and kill, without showing pity or compassion. Slaughter old men, young men and maidens, women and children, but do not touch anyone who has the mark. Begin at my sanctuary. ” SO THEY BEGAN WITH THE ELDERS WHO WERE IN FRONT OF THE TEMPLE” Ezekiel 9:5-6 (NIV).   If the Lord today would slaughter people who are not grieving and lamenting over all the detestable things that are being done in your town, village or city, would you be exempted? Remember that judgment must begin at the house of God (see 1 Peter 4:17). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What do you see when you look around the area where you live or where your congregation is located? If you notice a high level of ungodliness, worship of idols, young people not going to church service on Sundays but spending their time on football games or following dance hall artistes, does it distress you? If it distresses you, what action are you taking? PRAYER: Father, let my heart grieve and be greatly distressed when I see the high levels of ungodliness that surround me. Move me to pray and to reach out to the lost. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 277: Jeremiah 6-10 - When Truth Is Lost DAILY word study: DISTRESSED The word distressed in Acts 17:16 is translated from the Greek word paroxynō, which means “to be stirred, provoked, irritated, or deeply troubled.” It is the same word used in other parts of Scripture to describe sharp contention or deep stirring of the spirit. Paul's paroxynō (distress) in Athens went beyond mere discomfort; he was spiritually troubled by the city's idolatry, which he perceived as an affront to God. This profound concern, stemming from love for God, inspired him to speak out against the ungodliness he encountered. Reflect on this: If your spirit never feels stirred or troubled by the ungodliness around you, it may be a sign of dullness toward God’s holiness. Like Paul, let the sight of sin move you to prayer, compassion, and faithful witness.

Rev. Tse Amable | October 3 2025 | Acts 17:10-15   KEY VERSE: “Now the Bereans were of more noble character than the Thessalonians, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.” Acts 17:11   (NIV) MESSAGE:   The gospel train kept on moving from one town or city to another. This was in keeping with the instruction Jesus Christ gave to his disciples. He said, “When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. I tell you the truth, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes” Matthew 10:23 (NIV). The rejection of the gospel in one place should not be the end of our mission to take the gospel to every nation on earth. And so, from Thessalonica, the missionaries of Jesus Christ arrived at Berea. As they always did, they went to the synagogue to share the good news with the congregation worshipping there. In Berea, St. Luke observed and recorded that the believers there were of MORE NOBLE CHARACTER than the Thessalonians because they DID NOT ONLY RECEIVE THE MESSAGE WITH GREAT EAGERNESS BUT THEY ALSO EXAMINED THE SCRIPTURES EVERY DAY TO SEE IF WHAT PAUL SAID WAS TRUE.   That is a great example that all Christians must emulate. When we hear a teaching or a sermon delivered by our anointed men and women of God (pastors, apostles, prophets, teachers, evangelists, deacons, etc.), we should take it a step further and search the scriptures ourselves. Thankfully, today, we have an abundance of Bible study materials (commentaries, Bible dictionaries, maps, etc.), both in printed form and in electronic form on the Internet. When we search the scriptures ourselves, we should not do it to find faults or to punch holes in the teachings we have received, but RATHER TO DEEPEN OUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE SCRIPTURES AND TO GROUND OUR FAITH. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How do you receive the messages delivered to you by the Lord through his servants? Do you receive the message with great eagerness as the believers in Berea did? Be a Bible student by taking time to study and search the scriptures on your own. It helps to strengthen you and give you confidence in what you believe and have been taught. PRAYER: Father, thank you for providing me with resources through which I can study Your Word and become a better Christian. Help me through the Holy Spirit, my teacher, to understand the truths of the Kingdom which are available in your word. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 276 Jeremiah 1-5 - Called to Speak, Sent to Warn DAILY word study : SEARCH The word “search” in Acts 17:11 comes from the Greek word anakrinō, which means “to examine, investigate, question carefully.” It was often used as a legal term for cross-examining evidence in court. The Bereans didn’t just listen to Paul with eagerness; they anakrinō — searched the Scriptures daily, carefully checking if his teaching was true. Their searching wasn’t about fault-finding, but about grounding their faith in God’s Word. Reflect on this: To “search” the Scriptures means to handle God’s Word with care and attention. Like the Bereans, we are called not only to hear sermons but to go deeper, examining the Bible ourselves so our faith becomes rooted and unshakable.

Rev. Tse Amable | October 2 2025 | Acts 17:5-9   KEY VERSE: “. . .These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here… They are all defying Caesar’s decrees, saying that there is another king, one called Jesus.” Acts 17:6-7   (NIV) MESSAGE:   What happened here in Thessalonica was a replay of what the Jews did to the King of kings, Jesus Christ. Just as the Lord was hurriedly brought before Governor Pilate on false charges, so were Paul and his teammates also brought before the city officials. In the case of Paul and Silas, the false charge was that they had caused trouble all over the world, and they were defying Caesar’s decrees. Another strategy they used was deploying mob action. The scripture says, “The crowd and the city officials were thrown into turmoil” Acts 17:8 (NIV). When they could not find Paul and his team members, they dragged Jason and some other brothers before the city officials. However, the good news is that the false charges did not hold up, and Jason and the other brothers were released after they posted a security bond.   Satan will use his human agents to attack you and your credibility through false accusations. They may even resort to mob action by turning people against you. DO NOT BE AFRAID . It was the same strategy that was used against Stephen (the first Christian martyr) and Old Testament prophets, notably Daniel. BUT SATAN FAILED THEN, AND HE WILL FAIL AGAIN . Your God had promised to defend you so that all can see your innocence. This is his promise, which you can hold on to: “no weapon forged against you will prevail, and YOU WILL REFUTE EVERY TONGUE THAT ACCUSES YOU . THIS IS THE HERITAGE OF THE SERVANTS OF THE LORD, AND THIS IS THEIR VINDICATION FROM ME”  Isaiah 54:17 (NIV) FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Have you been falsely accused just because you are a believer in Jesus Christ? Our Lord predicted this would happen to his disciples when he said, “ Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me” Matthew 5:11 (NIV). If you are being persecuted and falsely accused, REJOICE AND BE GLAD, BECAUSE GREAT IS YOUR REWARD IN HEAVEN! _ PRAYER: Father, thank you for speaking on my behalf and defending me against false accusations. Strengthen me through the power of the Holy Spirit to always live a righteous life that cannot be faulted. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 275* Isaiah 62–66  Matthew 3-5 DAILY word study: CAUSED TROUBLE The phrase “caused trouble” in Acts 17:6 (NIV) translates the Greek word anastatoō, which means “to disturb, upset, or stir up.” The KJV renders it as “turned the world upside down.” The accusers twisted Paul’s preaching into something dangerous. In truth, Paul was proclaiming Jesus as King and bringing order through the gospel, but they painted it as rebellion. The gospel challenges sin and false power structures, so its opponents view it as a threat. Reflect on this: When you faithfully follow Christ, some may accuse you of “causing trouble.” Yet it is not chaos you bring, but the transforming power of God’s truth. Lies may distort the message, but God’s Word always stands.

Rev. Tse Amable | October 1 2025 | Acts 17:1-5   KEY VERSE: “But the Jews were jealous; so they rounded up some bad characters from the marketplace, formed a mob and started a riot in the city. They rushed to Jason's house in search of Paul and Silas in order to bring them out to the crowd.” Acts 17:5   (NIV) MESSAGE:   Just when the missionaries of the Holy Spirit were having a thriving ministry in Thessalonica, which had seen some of the Jews, a large number of God-fearing Greeks and not a few prominent women joining them, the enemy struck again just as he did earlier in Phillip. This time, the willing vessels the enemy found to use were Jews who had jealousy in their hearts. It was out of the same envy and jealousy that the leaders of the Jews plotted and had Jesus Christ crucified. They have not learnt any lesson from the triumphant resurrection of the Lord.   Our enemy, Satan, never gives up, no matter how many times he has been beaten and defeated. He will always come back and strike. He does this when our eyes are off the battlefield – when we are not vigilant. That is why Apostle Peter admonished us to be self-controlled and alert because our enemy, the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. We are to resist Satan, standing firm in the faith (see 1 Peter 5:8-9). The hymn writer captured the call for vigilance in these lyrics:   Principalities and powers, Mustering their unseen array, Wait for thy unguarded hours; “WATCH AND PRAY! “ FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Jealousy is a very deadly disease. Unfortunately, it manifests itself among believers who are envious and jealous of the successes their fellow believers are achieving in life, career, and even ministry within the church, denomination, or congregation. Examine your heart and see if there are traces of envy and jealousy in you. If you find a trace, ask the Holy Spirit to get rid of it from your heart. PRAYER: Father, thank you for reminding me that the enemy of Jesus Christ and the gospel never gives up, but is always looking for an opportunity to strike. Help me through the Holy Spirit to remain constantly alert and vigilant, so that I can thwart the devil's attempts. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 274: Isaiah 59–61   Matthew 1–2 DAILY word study: JEALOUS The word jealous in Acts 17:5 is translated from the Greek zēloō, which means “to be filled with zeal or envy.” It can describe a strong positive desire, but in this verse, it points to negative envy that turns destructive. The Jews in Thessalonica were not only envious of Paul’s success but also allowed jealousy to control them. Their envy blinded them to the truth and pushed them to stir up a mob against God’s servants. Reflect on this: Jealousy, if unchecked, can lead to harmful actions. God calls us instead to rejoice when His work prospers, even if it happens through others.

Rev. Tse Amable | September 30 2025 | Acts 17:1-5   KEY VERSE: “... as his custom was, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days HE REASONED WITH THEM FROM THE Scriptures, EXPLAINING AND PROVING THAT THE CHRIST HAD TO SUFFER AND RISE FROM THE DEAD. ...,” Acts 17:2-3   (NIV) MESSAGE:   We are staying with what Apostle Paul did on three Sabbath days when he arrived in Thessalonica. We find that from our key verses for today,  St. Luke (the recorder of the events) let us know that in this synagogue were Jews and God-fearing Greeks, some of whom were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, because “HE REASONED WITH THEM from the Scriptures, EXPLAINING AND PROVING that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead . . . .” . If Apostle Paul had shied away from engaging these precious souls by reasoning and explaining the scriptures to them, they would not have understood the scriptures and might not have been won for Christ. While we are called to engage our emotions and worship God through singing and dancing, we have a duty to prepare ourselves for mental engagement, to acquire knowledge, and learn how to present our faith in reasonable discussions.   Most of us, believers, are not able to engage our unbelieving friends and family members in explaining our faith to them. One reason is that we have not studied the scriptures ourselves to understand what we believe and why we hold these beliefs. We must heed the exhortation Apostle Paul gave to his spiritual son Timothy, which says “do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”  2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV). Apostle Peter also exhorted the saints to be always prepared “to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”  1 Peter 3:15 (NIV).   If Apostle Peter, who was an unschooled and ordinary fisherman, could preach that powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost, quoting from Prophet Joel and King David in the Psalms, then God can use any of us to confront philosophers and unbelieving theologians of today.  APPROVED WORKMEN AND WOMEN ARE NOT ASHAMED TO REASON AND EXPLAIN THE SCRIPTURES TO UNBELIEVERS . FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: The reason you find it difficult to reason out and explain the scriptures is that you have not been a good Bible student. Make time to study the word. Invest in Bible study books and resources. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to give you utterance. PRAYER: Father, I confess that I have been a poor witness of Jesus Christ. Please help me spend time studying your Word. Take away fear and make me bold to be confident when I have to reason with unbelievers and to explain your Word to them. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 273 Isaiah 56–58 — A Call to Justice and True Worship DAILY word study : REASONED The word “reasoned” in Acts 17:2 is translated from the Greek “dialegomai,” which means “to discuss, argue, or engage in dialogue.” It gives us the English word dialogue. Paul didn’t simply lecture the people in the synagogue. He entered into discussion with them, explaining, answering, and persuading them from the Scriptures. His goal was not to debate for its own sake, but to lead people to the truth about Christ’s suffering and resurrection. Reflect on this: Reasoning from the Scriptures reminds us that faith is not blind. It is grounded in God’s Word and can be explained with clarity to anyone willing to listen.