Search Results

Rev. Enoch Thompson | October 25 2024 | John 19:6-7 KEY VERSE: ” ⁶ As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, "Crucify! Crucify!" But Pilate answered, "You take him and crucify him. As for me, I find no basis for a charge against him." ⁷ The Jews insisted, "We have a law, and according to that law he must die, because he claimed to be the Son of God.” John 19:6-7 (NIV) MESSAGE: What people feel in their souls they let out in their words and actions. The Jewish religious leaders were jealous of Christ Jesus, they were afraid of His rising popularity, and they hated Him. They managed to infuse their dislike of the Lord Jesus into the ordinary people of the time. In the biblical records of His suffering, we see how their hatred for Christ manifested in political manipulation of the masses and played upon and against Pilate in his desire to see the Lord Jesus set free. Neither the clear declarations by Pilate of the innocence of Christ nor His pitiful looks from the floggings would change their mind about Jesus! The intensity of their dislike of the Lord was evident in their behaviour. For those of us who claim to love the Lord, are we willing and able to demonstrate our love and commitment to Him? I am not asking for mere formalities and empty words of commitment. I am asking for that depth of love for Christ that makes us yield to Him and allow Him to truly wear His crown and rule in our lives as the true and living King. If you love Him, let it show! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you believe in Jesus Christ as your God who came to die for you? Do you love Him because He first loved you? Are you going to declare your stand with Him and for Him, and let the world and the Devil know that you are on Jesus' side? PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for all that you mean to me, and the difference you make in my life. I pray that you help me to truly love you and to let my love for you show, in my speech, my conduct and my testimony to the world about you.   For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: CRUCIFY The word "crucify"  comes from the Greek stauroó  (σταυρόω), meaning to fasten to a cross. It was a common form of execution in Roman times, reserved for the most serious criminals. The cry of the Jewish leaders for Jesus to be crucified shows the deep hatred they had for him. Despite Jesus’ innocence, they demanded His crucifixion, a symbol of their complete rejection of His claim to be the Son of God. This act reminds us of Christ's love for us and His willingness to face the cross to redeem humanity. In contrast to the hatred shown by the crowd, our response should be to let our love for Jesus be as visible and unmistakable as the crowd's hatred. Reflections: As those who love Christ, are we demonstrating our love for Him boldly, or are we holding back? How can we let our love for Him show in our actions and words today?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | October 24 2024 | John 19:4-7 KEY VERSE: ⁴ Once more Pilate came out and said to the Jews, "Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him." ⁵ When Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, Pilate said to them, "Here is the man!"   John 19:4-5 (NIV) MESSAGE: In order to make a case for Christ we are sometimes tempted to reduce Him from what He claimed, taught and stood for. We seek to make Christ acceptable and fitting into our current worldviews, cultures and apparent sophisticated environment by devaluing and depreciating Him. Pilate had indicated that he did not find anything worthy of condemnation in the Lord Jesus in John 18:38. In John 19:4, he states this view again, and will further restate it in 19:6. But Pilate allowed for Christ to be flogged, mocked and presented as a caricature king, to what effect; to the effect that he might show to the Jewish religious leaders that the man they were afraid of, and therefore sought to eliminate by crucifixion was not as dangerous as they thought, was a weak ordinary nobody, and should therefore be set free. In the process Pilate did much injustice to the Lord Jesus and failed to make Him acceptable to a religious leadership and people who had made up their minds to reject Him. The bottom line of such efforts of depreciating the Christ is the rejection by those we seek to please, for “⁶As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, "Crucify! Crucify!" ⁷ The Jews insisted, "We have a law, and according to that law he must die, because he claimed to be the Son of God." John 19:6-7 (NIV). If people would not buy Christ for the price He claims to be worth, they would not buy Him at the reduced price you offer Him to them! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you faced with situations that seek to make you reduce Jesus Christ to just another religious leader, to one of many ways of finding spiritual salvation or material attainment and satisfaction? Beware of reducing the King of kings, God in human flesh, to just another man, a simple religious icon, one among the many spiritual forces to be manipulated by people. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, it is so tempting to want to make You look like the rest so that Your exclusive claims upon my life and from all humans will not seem so offensive. Please give me the courage to stand for all that you claimed to be, and all that you are, and all that you demand of me and all others.   For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : WEARING The word "wearing"  comes from the Greek periballó  (περιβάλλω) , which means to clothe, wrap, or put around. It indicates an action of being dressed or covered with a garment. In John 19:5, "wearing" describes Jesus dressed in a crown of thorns and a purple robe, placed on Him to mock His kingship. Though meant to humiliate, these symbols point to His true royal identity and the suffering He bore for our sake. The mockery reveals humanity’s attempt to depreciate His worth, but for believers, it serves as a powerful reminder of His unmatched kingship and the price He paid for our salvation. We must never reduce His value in our lives—Jesus, the King, wore the burden of our sin to offer us eternal life. Reflection As Jesus "wore" the crown of thorns and robe in mockery, He bore the burden of our sins. Are we, in turn, recognizing His true worth in our lives? How can we honour His kingship by fully embracing the sacrifice He made for us?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | October 23 2024 | John 19:4-5 KEY VERSE: ⁴ Once more Pilate came out and said to the Jews, "Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him." ⁵ When Jesus came out wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe, Pilate said to them, "Here is the man!"   John 19:4-5 (NIV) MESSAGE: The things that were done to the Lord Jesus in those early hours of the trial were the faultless fulfilment of prophecy to bring about the eternal salvation of human souls from the condemnation to Hell and from enslavement to the Devil and sin. Once again Pilate declares the innocence of the prisoner Master Jesus. When the judge in a case declares the accused not guilty, and yet goes ahead to allow him to be punished then we know that a great injustice has been done. But Pilate speaks the essence of what he had done when he said about the caricature king he was presenting to the Jewish people,   "Here is the man!" The Lord Jesus was not only the true King of Israel, but He was also the representative human being. In His agony during the trials and on the cross, He took the sinful shameful place of humanity so completely that he was “the man.” In the plan of God, Jesus Christ took on the image of sinful humanity completely. Without knowing it Pilate made the true declaration of the Lord Jesus as the representation of humankind in our shame and condemnation and presented Him as such to the Jews. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Christ became “the man”, the quintessential man, more than the Kweku Anansi of our folklore stories, so that we would be cured of our sinful humanness and become partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4). Have you allowed the great transaction of God being made man to change you so that you truly share the divine nature? PRAYER: O God of mercy who sent your only begotten Son to die in my place, please help me to truly believe that He became “the man” so I can truly become a child of God. May I look like Him, for He looked like me in His condemnation. For His dear Name’s sake, Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: MAN The word "man"  comes from the Greek anthrōpos  (ἄνθρωπος), which means "human being" or "mankind" in general. It is used to refer to humanity in a universal sense. When Pilate declared, "Here is the man," he unknowingly presented Jesus as the representative of all humanity. In that moment, Jesus stood as the embodiment of sinful humanity, bearing its shame and punishment. For believers, this highlights Jesus’ role as the ultimate "representative man," taking our place in suffering so we could share in His divine nature. Reflections: How does knowing that Jesus became the "representative man" for you change the way you live? Are you allowing His sacrifice to transform your life and bring you into a deeper relationship with God?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | October 22 2024 | John 19:1-3 KEY VERSE: ² The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe ³ and went up to him again and again, saying, "Hail, king of the Jews!" And they struck him in the face. John 19:2-3 (NIV) MESSAGE: The approach we adopt to reality at any point in time may be either serious or just kidding about the realities we face. We can take a doctor’s statement of our health condition seriously or conclude that the doctor is joking with us by the things she sees and declares about our health. The soldiers in our text today were not serious about their presentation of the Lord Jesus Christ as king. The purple cloth when understood seriously pointed to royalty, and a crown of some precious metal and precious stones equally proclaimed the dignity of royalty. However, the crown and the robe that the soldiers presented to the Lord were a mockery and a sham, far removed from the identity and dignity of the one they bowed before. They presented Him with a crown of thorns, to hurt Him, and to say that following Him only produces pain and hardship, like when one wears a crown of thorns. They clothed Him with a purple robe while they struck Him in the face, to say that the Kingdom and promise of royalty He offered was a weak and powerless alternative to the kingdoms of this world. Many people make a mockery of God, of religion and the claims of Christ. In the name of God, we present a faulty view of God, in the name of Christ we make a mockery of what He stood for, and what He demands of us. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you serious about Christ and His claims on your life, or are you just kidding Him with your religion? If we are serious with the King, we will truly bow our hearts before Him and let Him rule in every aspect of our lives. PRAYER: Dear God, please forgive me where I have made a mockery of you by my lack of seriousness in my claims to the Lordship of Jesus Christ over my life. Please help me to take my faith-walk seriously, and to truly bow before your throne. For Christ’s dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: STRUCK The word "struck"  comes from the Greek deró  (δέρω) , meaning to hit or beat. It conveys an intentional act of violence meant to demean or harm. The soldiers struck Jesus in mockery, placing a crown of thorns on His head and dressing Him in a purple robe, rejecting His kingship. This act symbolized their refusal to accept His true identity. For believers, it serves as a reminder to take Christ’s kingship seriously and to approach our faith with sincerity, reflecting genuine worship. Reflections: How are you treating Jesus’ kingship in your life—are you honouring Him with sincerity, or are you just going through the motions?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | October 21 2024 | John 19:1-3 KEY VERSE: ² The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe ³ and went up to him again and again, saying, "Hail, king of the Jews!" And they struck him in the face. John 19:2-3 (NIV) MESSAGE: It never stops to amaze me the extent of injustice that the sinless Jesus Christ was subjected to, particularly in the trials that culminated in His crucifixion. When the Governor, Pilate had finished with his conscienceless politically motivated flogging of Jesus Christ, the soldiers were emboldened to take over the game and make a mockery of the Man in their possession and power. Though they were rubbing the salt into the wounds of their prisoner, they unknowingly demonstrated the real meaning of what they intended to mock by their actions. They pretended to crown Jesus king by twisting together a crown of thorns for His head. They went before Him and bowed before Him, and said " Hail, king of the Jews !" And then they struck Him in the face; O what a way to treat a king. But that is what my sin and yours and of all humanity did to the King of kings and the Lord of lords.  He was chastised for our iniquities, and the punishment that would bring us freedom and peace was laid upon Him. The hymn writer captures the message of the text beautifully, and we may sing it all day today and all our lifetime: Bearing shame and scoffing rude, In my place condemned He stood, Sealed my pardon with His blood, Hallelujah, what a Saviour! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you acknowledge Jesus as your King? Do you bow to Him in worship and then slap Him in the face? May God save us from such wickedness! PRAYER: O King disrespected and mocked, so that I can find dignity and become a child of God, thank you for suffering for me, that through your shame I have gained royalty. Help me, dear Jesus, to truly bow and truly say, "Hail, king of the Jews!" May my worship be true and real. May I hail you King over all my life. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: THORNS The word "thorns"  comes from the Greek akantha  (ἄκανθα), meaning a sharp, spiny plant. Thorns were often used to describe objects or situations that cause pain or suffering. The crown of thorns placed on Jesus’ head was a painful mockery of His kingship, turning a symbol of royalty into an instrument of torture. Thorns, often representing suffering and the curse of sin, remind us of the depth of Christ’s sacrifice. Though deserving of a crown of glory, Jesus bore a crown of pain, taking on the brokenness of the world to bring redemption and healing. Reflections: The crown of thorns was a symbol of mockery, yet it revealed the depth of Christ’s kingship and sacrifice. How can we honour His suffering through the way we live and serve others?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | October 20 2024 | John 19:1 KEY VERSE: Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. John 19:1 (NIV) MESSAGE: In a fallen sinful world right is not always right; very often right is wrong, and wrong is right. Wrong is right when people with power but without knowledge or the fear of God abuse their power to hurt other people and to achieve their political ends.   The trial of the Lord Jesus by Pilate in John chapter 18 has shown repeatedly that there was no basis for Him to be accused by the Jewish leaders. Pilate had told the Jews, "I find no basis for a charge against him .” John 18:38 (NIV), and yet in that same context Pilate chose to act in a way that sought to satisfy the desire of the Jews to see Jesus punished in some way, and so he took the Lord and got Him flogged. Certainly, this flogging was against conscience, it was against justice and it was against Roman law.   Pilate was seeking political expediency, he wanted to look good in the eyes of the Jews, at the risk of looking bad in the eyes of his conscience, and in the eyes of justice.  But wrong can never be right and must not be allowed to seem right. The cowardly stamping down of conscience will only give us a bad name like Pilate has got in history, and in many cases bring us to a terrible end as befell Pilate who ended up exiled in France until his death. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How is it with you; are you making wrong look like right, misusing power to impress your sinful self or others who make wrong demands on you? Be warned! Do you feel suppressed, oppressed, maligned, sidelined, or abused by people who seem to have power over and against you; don’t worry, the just Judge shall come, and all wrong shall be corrected. PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, please forgive me if I have abused any person, to save my skin or to make me look good. Please help me to stand for right, and be willing to suffer for it, if need be, especially to free the oppressed and the underdog, For Christ’s dear Name’s sake,   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: FLOGGED The word "flogged"  comes from the Greek mastigoó  (μαστιγόω), meaning to whip or scourge as a form of punishment. It was a brutal form of corporal punishment often reserved for criminals. The use of flogged in John 19:1 refers to the brutal punishment Jesus endured despite His innocence. It symbolizes the injustice of Pilate’s decision to appease the crowd, allowing an innocent man to suffer. For believers, this moment highlights the cost Jesus bore for our salvation and warns against compromising truth for political or personal convenience. Reflections: In what ways do you compromise what is right to please others? Are you willing to stand for truth, even if it means facing discomfort or opposition?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 19 2024 | John 18:9 KEY VERSE: This happened so that THE WORDS HE HAD SPOKEN WOULD BE FULFILLED. John 18:9 (NIV) MESSAGE: One very popular scripture is the prophetic words of Jehovah through Prophet Isaiah which says: “... so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it”  (Isaiah 55:11). One notable sentence in the gospel according to St. Matthew is the “punctuation” which ended everything that happened in the life of Jesus Christ. You will come across this statement “ SO WAS FULFILLED WHAT WAS SAID THROUGH THE PROPHETS ” or something similar. The birth, death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ were fulfilled “ditto-ditto” just as was prophesied in the Old Testament. If you study the Bible or you read “ EVIDENCE THAT DEMANDS A VERDICT ” by Josh McDowell, you will find scores of Old Testament prophecies which came to pass or were fulfilled through the life, ministry and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.   Jesus Christ himself made several predictions in his teachings.   For example, he predicted that Jerusalem would be attacked and the temple would be destroyed after his death (see Matthew 24:1-8, Mark 13:1-8 and Luke 21:20) and it came to pass just as he predicted. Jerusalem was destroyed by Titus, the Roman General, in 70 A.D.   He predicted that one of his own disciples would betray him and it came to pass. Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 betrayed him.   He also predicted that Simon Peter would deny him 3 times and it came to pass.   He declared very boldly and confidently “I tell you the truth, THIS GENERATION WILL CERTAINLY NOT PASS AWAY UNTIL ALL THESE THINGS HAVE HAPPENED. HEAVEN AND EARTH WILL PASS AWAY, BUT MY WORDS WILL NEVER PASS AWAY” (Matthew 24:34-35).   One prophecy which remains to be fulfilled is the second coming of Jesus Christ. He himself predicted it (see John 14:1-3). On the day Jesus Christ ascended back to heaven, angels told his disciples: “ Men of Galilee, why do you stand here looking into the sky? THIS SAME JESUS, WHO HAS BEEN TAKEN FROM YOU INTO HEAVEN, WILL COME BACK IN THE SAME WAY YOU HAVE SEEN HIM GO INTO HEAVEN”  (Acts 1:11). Every other prophecy related to the second coming of Jesus Christ shall come to pass. The rapture of the believers shall come to pass. The judgement of the “ QUICK AND THE DEAD ” (as we say when we affirm our faith with the words of the Apostles’ Creed) shall also come to pass. Every personal promise the Lord truly made to you shall also come to pass in the fullness of time. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you have any promise made to you which is yet to come to pass?  How are you preparing for the second coming of Jesus Christ? PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I thank you that every word you have spoken to me shall come to pass in its own time. Help me to prepare as the wise virgins did as I wait for your second coming and the establishment of your 1000-year rule in which I will reign with you. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : FULFILLED The word "fulfilled"  comes from the Greek pléroó  (πληρόω), meaning to make full, complete, or to bring to realization. It refers to the completion of a promise or prophecy. In John 18:9, "fulfilled" signifies the realization of Jesus’ earlier statement that none of His disciples would be lost. Throughout Scripture, the word pléroó  is used to emphasize the completion of God’s promises and prophecies, such as the birth and resurrection of Jesus and the eventual second coming. The word "fulfilled"  emphasizes the reliability of God’s promises. Throughout Scripture, every prophecy, including Jesus' own words, has been completed exactly as spoken. This reveals that God's plan unfolds with absolute precision. For believers, it assures us that the promises God has made in our lives will be accomplished, strengthening our faith in His perfect timing. Reflections: Are you holding on to any promise from God that is yet to be fulfilled? How are you preparing yourself, knowing that His word will always come to pass?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 18 2024 | John 18:28-40 KEY VERSE: They shouted back, “No, not him! Give us Barabbas!” NOW BARABBAS HAD TAKEN PART IN A REBELLION. John 18:40 (NIV) MESSAGE: Governor Pilate was an example of a weak ruler and judge. Having displayed a lack of interest in the truth, Pilate then revealed a lack of commitment to justice. He lacked the courage of his convictions. If Jesus Christ was innocent of all charges, then Pilate should have set Him free. Instead, Pilate began a series of compromising moves to avoid dealing with an inconvenient truth in a difficult circumstance. Firstly, when Pilate found out Jesus Christ was from Galilee, he sent Him to Herod (Luke 23:6-7). Secondly, Pilate tried to appeal to the crowd (John 18:38), hoping to by-pass the desire of the chief priests and elders. Knowing Jesus Christ was popular, Pilate thought the crowd would prefer Jesus Christ to Barabbas. But the leaders proved to be persuasive (compare with Matthew 27:20). The offer to release Barabbas who was guilty of murder and insurrection showed poor judgment for a person responsible for Rome's political interests.   This is what happens in our courts when we see justice being denied to the innocent and rather to the guilty. It happens when judges (who have been compromised with money and other material gifts) are bent on pleasing powerful and wealthy men and women in society. It happens when judges seek to be always in the good books of their political “ god-fathers.” When it happens, the truth is crucified and falsehood is acquitted. It is a travesty of justice when the just is exchanged and punished instead of the unjust.   As the people of God, may we continue to pray that our courts are chaired by magistrates, judges and justices who have the fear of God in them and not corruptible people who will not give righteous judgements. Let us continue to pray that bad judges will be exposed and removed from their chairs on the bench. And if we have the evidence, let us be bold and take advantage of the law by writing petitions for the dismissal of corrupt judges. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you concerned about the state of affairs in the judicial system? What can you do to build confidence in the courts? Will you join in any demonstration or protest against the miscarriage of justice? PRAYER: Father, we pray and commit our judges and the entire judicial system into your hands. Give us good judges after the kind of King Solomon who will administer justice without fear or favour. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : SHOUTED The word "shouted"  comes from the Greek kraugazo  (κράζω), meaning to cry out or scream loudly. It often implies a loud and public outcry, particularly one filled with passion or emotion. In John 18:40, the word "shouted"  highlights the crowd's unified cry for Barabbas, symbolizing a rejection of justice. Throughout Scripture, kraugazo  often marks critical moments of intense public outcry. The crowd’s shouting in John 18:40 reflects the power of collective pressure to subvert justice. In this case, the voices of the people overshadowed the truth, leading to the unjust release of a murderer over the innocent Christ. This moment warns believers of the dangers of following popular opinion over righteous judgment, encouraging us to stand firm in truth, even when the majority pushes for injustice. Reflections: How often do we find ourselves swayed by popular opinion rather than standing up for what is right? Are you willing to choose the truth, even if it goes against the crowd?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 17 2024 | John 18:28-40 KEY VERSE: Jesus answered, “MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS REALM.” John 18:36 (NIV) MESSAGE: Every kingdom has citizens who belong to it. The Kingdom of Jesus Christ also has citizens – believers in Jesus Christ. In his famous conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus Christ declared “ I tell you the truth, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless he is born of water and the Spirit ” (John 3:5). That means the criterion for becoming a citizen of heaven is being born again – the new birth. Once you satisfy that requirement, you become a bona fide citizen of heaven. Apostle Paul rightly wrote “ But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ ” (Philippians 3:20). See also Hebrews 13:14 and 1 John 2:15–17. As believers in Jesus Christ, we are subjects of Jesus Christ’s kingdom. We are citizens of heaven, and we owe our highest allegiance to our ultimate authority - King Jesus Christ. Just as He declared, we, too, can say, “ MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD ”.   Every citizenship carries with it certain rights and privileges as well as duties and obligations.  As citizens of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, we owe it as the duty to our King to live according to the laws, decrees and commandments which govern that kingdom.   In Hebrews 12:28-29, we read: “ Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, LET US BE THANKFUL, AND SO WORSHIP GOD ACCEPTABLY WITH REVERENCE AND AWE, for our “God is a consuming fire ”. In the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, only worship modesty, pious care, godly fear  and  awe are acceptable to the King. In Romans 14:17-18, we read: “ For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE AND JOY IN THE HOLY SPIRIT, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men”.   You are a royal of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Royals do not live “ by heart ” – anyhow. Find out from the word of God the lifestyle which is acceptable and pleasing to your King, Jesus Christ. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How do you conduct yourself as a royal in the Kingdom of Jesus Christ? Are you pleasing your King with acceptable worship? PRAYER: Father, help me to live as a citizen of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. May my words, actions and attitudes magnify my King and draw others to him in absolute surrender. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : SERVANTS The word "servants"  comes from the Greek word doulos  (δοῦλος), which originally meant a "slave" or "bondservant"—someone entirely submitted to the will of their master. Over time, it evolved to signify a devoted follower or servant, emphasizing loyalty and obedience. The term doulos  is used frequently in the New Testament to describe believers' relationship with God and Christ, highlighting the idea of willing service, submission, and total devotion to the Lord’s will. For example, Paul often refers to himself as a "servant" (or doulos ) of Christ (Romans 1:1), illustrating the complete surrender required of believers. In John 18:36, Jesus highlights that His servants  would not fight for His release, as His kingdom is spiritual, not earthly. As servants  of Christ's kingdom, believers are called to submit fully to His authority, engaging in spiritual service through prayer, truth, and righteousness, rather than physical force. Our loyalty to Christ as King reflects a life of obedience and devotion to His will. Reflections: How are you living as a servant of Christ in His kingdom? Are your actions aligned with your calling to serve Him faithfully and loyally?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 16 2024 | John 18:28-40 KEY VERSE: Jesus answered, “MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS REALM.” John 18:36 (NIV) MESSAGE: Throughout the scriptures, we know that the Most High God is King and the kingdom of heaven (also known as THE KINGDOM OF GOD) is his. This kingdom of God is the same as the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.  We read in Revelations 11:15: “ The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign for ever and ever”.   Firstly, being equal with God the Father, Jesus Christ is a “ shareholder ” of everything the Father has. That includes the Kingdom of Heaven. In his prayer to the Father, Jesus Christ said, “ And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the world began ” (John 17:5). The glory the Son shared with the Father was being a joint-King with the Father as rulers over the kingdom of heaven.   Secondly, by becoming a Son and the firstborn of God the Father, Jesus Christ became the heir to the throne of God and the Kingdom of God, just as Prince Charles inherited his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II and was coronated as king. Scriptures which point to the kingship of Jesus Christ include Ephesians 1:20-21 and Revelation 19:11-16. Revelation 19:16 reads, “ On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” . That is Jesus Christ. He has a kingdom over which he rules and that kingdom is the Kingdom of Heaven.   The good news is believers in Jesus Christ have been made to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father. (Revelation 1:6). One day, we the saints will reign with Jesus Christ for a thousand years and rule over the wicked people who have not surrendered their lives to the Lordship and Kingship of Jesus Christ (Revelation 20:6). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What do you know about the kingdom of Jesus Christ? What are the laws, commandments and decrees which regulate life in this kingdom? What are you doing to bring others into the Kingdom of Jesus Christ? PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I acknowledge you as my King. Your throne is an everlasting one. Your kingdom stretches from shore to shore till moons shall wax and wane no more. Please empower me to serve your kingdom faithfully and loyally. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : ARREST The word "arrest"  comes from the Greek verb katalambano  (καταλαμβάνω), which means to seize, take hold of, or capture. It denotes a forceful action of taking someone into custody, often against their will. In John 18:36, Jesus' arrest  signifies the tension between earthly powers and divine authority, showing that His kingdom transcends worldly governance. His acceptance of arrest reflects His commitment to fulfilling God's plan, demonstrating that true authority comes through sacrifice. For believers, this highlights that being part of Christ's kingdom does not shield us from trials; instead, it calls us to trust in His sovereignty even amidst adversity. Reflections: How do you respond when faced with challenges or opposition in your life? Are you willing to trust in Christ's authority over your circumstances, knowing that His kingdom ultimately prevails?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 15 2024 | John 18:28-40 KEY VERSE: Jesus answered, “MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS REALM.” John 18:36 (NIV) MESSAGE: The Jewish high council wanted to put Jesus Christ to death. Therefore, they sent Him to Governor Pilate because he alone held the power to pronounce a death sentence (John 19:10). The High Priest, Caiaphas, had to convince Pilate that Jesus was a troublemaker and a threat to Roman stability. He accused Jesus Christ of claiming to be a king — a charge that would insinuate Jesus in the crime of recruiting rebel forces to launch a revolution against Roman authority (Luke 23:2–5). To convince himself that the charges brought against Jesus Christ were true and deserved punishment by death, Pilate asked Jesus Christ: “ ARE YOU THE KING OF THE JEWS? ” (John 18:33).   When Jesus Christ answered Pilate and said, “ MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD ,” He was, in essence, telling Pilate the nature of his (Jesus Christ’s) kingdom and the source of its power. The statement, “ MY KINGDOM IS NOT OF THIS WORLD” points to the origin and nature of Christ’s kingdom, not the location. The authority and power of Jesus Christ’s kingdom are drawn from a source outside of this world — from God, our heavenly Father. Jesus Christ’s headship is not of human origin but divine.   Jesus did not come to earth to rule over a mortal empire. He came to bear witness to the truth of who He is — the Messiah, Saviour of the world. Everyone who loves and recognizes this truth is a citizen of Christ’s kingdom. Jesus' kingdom is unlike any on this earth. Other kingdoms are rooted in the realm of this world, but Jesus Christ’s is unique. His kingship is spiritual. It comes down to us from heaven and gives life to the world (John 6:33).   Because Jesus Christ’s kingdom is not of this world, He needed no earthly defence by mortal men and women. He had at his command more than 12 legions of angels who could defend him at any time (Matthew 26:53).   Because Jesus Christ’s kingdom is a spiritual one, only those who are born again by water (representing the word of God) and by the Spirit of God can see and enter Jesus Christ’s kingdom (John 3:3,5). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Besides the truth shared in today’s message, what else do you know about the kingdom of Jesus Christ? What are you doing to teach others who do not know the true nature and the source of the kingdom of Jesus Christ? PRAYER: Father, I confess that I lack an in-depth knowledge of the kingdom of Jesus Christ. Please, teach me and empower me to teach others and also to labour to bring those outside into the kingdom of Jesus Christ. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : WORLD The word "world" comes from the Greek word kosmos (κόσμος), which primarily refers to the created order, the universe, or the earth, but it also often denotes the systems, values, and structures that are apart from God and opposed to His kingdom. In the context of our devotional, kosmos used in the key verse refers to the realm of human life and governance that operates apart from God’s authority and purposes. In John 18:36, Jesus declares that His kingdom is not of this world, emphasizing that His reign does not conform to the power structures, political systems, or values of the earthly realm. Jesus' kingdom transcends the material world and is rooted in spiritual truth and divine authority. His mission is not to overthrow earthly rulers but to establish a spiritual kingdom based on righteousness, truth, and love. As believers, this distinction reminds us that while we live in this world, we are citizens of a higher, spiritual kingdom and should prioritize God's purposes over worldly systems and values. Reflections: How does recognizing that Jesus' kingdom is not of this world shape the way you live? Are there areas where you're too focused on the things of this world rather than the eternal values of God's kingdom?

Rev. Tse Amable | October 14 2024 | John 18:28-40 KEY VERSE: Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.” John 18:36 (NIV) MESSAGE: The trial of Jesus Christ was coming to an end. He was now standing before Pilate who had the power to either acquit or sentence him to death. Jesus Christ already knew that he would be handed the death sentence by crucifixion. He also knew that he would be subjected to a degree of torturing, physical abuse and humiliation that would shock on-lookers. That was what the prophets, notably Prophet Isaiah had prophesied centuries earlier (see Isaiah 53). But that notwithstanding, Jesus Christ remained calm, confident, bold and courageous. This truth is seen in his demeanour before Pilate and how he answered the questions put to him. A classic example was his answer as in our key verse for today. Here was a man who was accused of claiming to be a king. Even though Jesus Christ knew that admitting that charge would spoil his case and make it easy for Pilate to give in to the demands of the Jews, Jesus Christ left nobody in that courtroom on that truth. In St. Matthew’s account, when Governor Pilate asked Jesus Christ “ ARE YOU THE KING OF THE JEWS?”, the Lord replied “YES, IT IS AS YOU SAY” (Matthew 27:11).   The Lord was not intimidated by what would happen to him. He spoke fearlessly.   Years later, when Apostle Paul was writing to Timothy, he referred to the testimony of Jesus Christ before Pilate in the following words: “I charge you in the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, WHO TESTIFIED THE GOOD CONFESSION BEFORE PONTIUS PILATE” (1 Timothy 6:13). That is another good example Jesus Christ left for us to follow in his steps. Be a bold, courageous and fearless witness of the truth at all times. Even when you are brought before people in authority on account of your faith in Jesus Christ, do not be afraid to testify for the truth that you know and believe. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How will you answer when you are being tried in any court for your faith in Jesus Christ? Are you a faithful, trustworthy and reliable witness for Jesus Christ before unbelievers? PRAYER: Father, I pray that you give me the courage to speak and testify for Jesus Christ and the truth at all times especially when I know that my testimony will be used against me even to the point of death. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: KINGDOM The word "kingdom"  comes from the Greek word basileia  (βασιλεία) , which refers to royal rule, dominion, or realm. It signifies the territory or people over whom a king rules, as well as the authority and governance exercised by the king. Jesus speaks of His kingdom , in our key verse explaining to Pilate that His reign is not of this world. Jesus distinguishes His divine authority from earthly political systems. His kingdom  is spiritual in nature, originating from God, and operates on principles of truth, justice, and eternal life, not violence or earthly power. This statement redefines what it means to be a king and what the kingdom of God truly represents. Reflections: What does it mean to be part of Christ’s kingdom, which is not of this world? Are you living in a way that reflects the values of Jesus’ eternal reign?