Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 10 2025 | Acts 4:5-12 KEY VERSE: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 (NIV)   MESSAGE: In Acts 4, Peter boldly declares that salvation comes through Jesus Christ alone. This was a radical statement in a world filled with competing gods, philosophies, and traditions. Yet, Peter did not waver, knowing that Jesus is the only way to true redemption and eternal life. This truth remains unchanging today, even as society becomes more pluralistic and resistant to exclusive claims of faith.   Sharing the message of salvation through JESUS Christ can feel daunting in a culture that values relativism. But as believers, we are called to proclaim His name with love and humility. The message is not ours to change; it’s ours to deliver. When we share Jesus, we offer the hope of eternal life, the joy of forgiveness, and the peace that only God can provide. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Today, reflect on how you can boldly and lovingly share the name of Jesus and be determined to reach out to someone today.   PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the gift of salvation. Give me the courage to proclaim Your name and the wisdom to share Your truth with love and grace. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 41: Exodus 9-10 — The Plagues Continue DAILY word study: SALVATION The Greek word for salvation used in Acts 4:12 is sōtēria  (σωτηρία), meaning "deliverance, rescue, or safety." It originates from sōtēr  (σωτήρ), which means "Savior" or "Deliverer." Peter’s declaration in Acts 4:12 was a direct assertion of Jesus’ unique role as the only Savior. This was in stark contrast to Roman emperor worship, Jewish legalism, and Greek philosophical pluralism. Theologically, sōtēria  extends beyond physical rescue; it signifies spiritual redemption, justification, and eternal life through Jesus Christ. Reflection: Salvation is more than just escaping judgment—it is an invitation to a transformed life. Are you embracing the fullness of sōtēria , or are you treating it as mere safety from condemnation?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 9 2025 | Acts 4:5-12 KEY VERSE: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12 (NIV)   MESSAGE: The bold declaration of Peter and John highlights the exclusivity of Jesus as the way to salvation. This message is as unconventional now as it was then. In a world seeking multiple paths to God, this truth can be uncomfortable, yet it is the foundation of our faith. Jesus alone bridges the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God.   The world today is working hard to debunk this fact and belief by resorting to science and many other means, including self-worship. But history and evidence of near-death encounters by some persons in religions that believe otherwise themselves have pointed to Jesus as the only way.   For believers, this truth encourages confidence in sharing the gospel. The historical Jesus, who walked the earth over two thousand years ago, is the Christ—the anointed one, the promised Messiah. His life, death, and resurrection are well-documented events that transformed the course of history. As it is written in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NIV): "For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures."   While others may advocate for moral living or alternative spiritual paths, we understand that true peace and eternal life can only come through JESUS Christ. This understanding is not intended to foster pride but to inspire compassion for those who have yet to encounter Him. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Hold on to what you believe as a Christian, and don’t exchange it for anything else. Meditate on the significance of Jesus as your Saviour and let that be what you carry in your spirit as you live for him.   PRAYER: Lord Jesus, thank You for being the only way to salvation. Help me live with gratitude for Your sacrifice and share this truth boldly and lovingly with others. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!  The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 40:   Exodus 7-8 — The First Plagues

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 8 2025 | Acts 4:1-4 KEY VERSE: They were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead. Acts 4:2 (NIV)   MESSAGE: The gospel of Jesus Christ is powerful but not always welcome. When Peter and John boldly proclaimed the resurrection of Jesus, the religious leaders were deeply disturbed. Their message challenged the established beliefs and authority of those in power. The truth of Christ’s resurrection was not just a theological issue but a direct confrontation with those who wanted to maintain control over the people. In the same way, whenever the gospel is preached boldly, it will disturb those unwilling to accept God’s truth.   As believers, we must recognise that opposition to the gospel is not a sign of failure but a confirmation that the message is making an impact. Jesus warned that His followers would face persecution for His name (John 15:18-20). The world is often resistant to the truth because it exposes sin, calls for repentance, and demands a change of heart. Yet, we are called to remain faithful in sharing the gospel, no matter the resistance we face. True disciples of Christ do not compromise His message to avoid discomfort; instead, they proclaim the truth with courage and love.   The results of not relenting to preach and teach the truth about the finished work of Christ is as evidenced in Acts 4:4: “However, many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to be about five thousand" – souls will be saved. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: If you have ever faced opposition for your faith, take heart—you are in good company. The apostles, the early church, and even Jesus Himself faced rejection for proclaiming God’s truth. But the power of the gospel cannot be silenced.   PRAYER: Pray for boldness today: “Lord, give me the courage to speak Your truth even when it disturbs others. Help me stand firm in faith, knowing that Your word brings life, even when opposed.” In Jesus name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 39:   Exodus 5-6 — Moses Confronts Pharaoh DAILY word study : PROCLAIMING The Greek word for “proclaiming” in Acts 4:2 is "katangellō" (καταγγέλλω), which means "to announce, declare openly, or publicly herald." It emphasizes a bold and authoritative declaration, often used in Scripture to describe the proclamation of the gospel. Peter and John were not merely sharing personal beliefs; they were publicly declaring the resurrection of Jesus with authority. The opposition from religious leaders revealed that the gospel challenges worldly systems and power structures. Theologically, "katangellō" highlights the urgency and courage required in sharing Christ. Preaching the gospel is not about passive conversation—it is an intentional and bold declaration of divine truth. Reflection: How boldly do you proclaim your faith? Are you willing to share the gospel even when it challenges societal norms? Consider how you can be a witness for Christ in both word and action.

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 7 2025 | Acts 3:17-26 KEY VERSE: ¹⁹Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, ²⁰ and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you — even Jesus. Acts 3:19-20 (NIV)   MESSAGE: When we are sensitive to right and wrong, our consciences alert us when we have erred. Sometimes, the fallen nature of our humanity makes us insensitive to our sins, and we continue as if everything is alright. Yet God is gracious and sends reminders and indicators to us to make us aware of our sins. The purpose of God in doing this is to guide us to repentance so that we can be reconnected to Him and not come under His judgment. Being told of our sin seems like an attack on our person, and our natural self rises to oppose the revelation of the sin. The Apostle Peter, speaking by the power of the Holy Spirit, touched on the sin of Israel in the crucifixion of Christ. He indicated that both Israel and its leaders acted out of ignorance.   However, there must be a way back to the right path. His message to them was ¹⁹Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, ²⁰ and that he may send the Christ, who has been appointed for you — even Jesus. Acts 3:19-20 (NIV) Repentance is a deliberate and sincere recognition of our sin, a turning away from our sin and our turning to God. Such turning done in truth brings us cleansing by God from our sin, repentance brings the refreshment of our spirit and soul, and sometimes this is even visible in the freshness of body and healing of sickness. God may even restore lost positions and possessions, but most importantly, our relationship with God is restored, and Christ and His Spirit take a new centre stage in our lives. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What is the condition of your spirit? Are there lingering sins that you need to turn away from? Is there a need to turn back to God because you have strayed and stayed away from your deep fellowship with Him? Let’s repent; we shall be refreshed!   PRAYER: Search me, O God, and know my heart today; Try me, O Saviour, know my thoughts, I pray. See if there be some wicked way in me; Cleanse me from ev’ry sin and set me free. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 38: Exodus 3-4 — God Calls Moses DAILY word study : REFRESHING The word "refreshing" in Acts 3:19 comes from the Greek word "anapsyxis" (ἀνάψυξις), which means “a recovery of breath,” “revival,” or “cooling relief.” It carries the imagery of a fresh wind or a soothing presence that restores life and vigor. Peter’s call to repentance in Acts 3:19-20 links forgiveness of sins with times of refreshing from the Lord. This indicates that true renewal and restoration come when we realign our hearts with God. Throughout Scripture, divine refreshment is associated with repentance, obedience, and God’s presence (Psalm 51:10-12, Isaiah 44:3). Reflection: Have you experienced spiritual dryness? True refreshment comes when we turn back to God with a sincere heart. What areas of your life need renewal through repentance today?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 6 2025 | Acts 3:11-16 KEY VERSE: By faith in the name of Jesus, this man whom you see and know was made strong. It is Jesus' name and the faith that comes through him that has given this complete healing to him, as you can all see. Acts 3:16 (NIV)   MESSAGE: When our lives have been impacted by the power of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, people who knew us from our previous ways of life or people accustomed to how raw, unsaved human nature operates are surprised to see the difference our new life in Christ makes. The change in the previously lame beggar was evident to all who knew him, and they flocked to him to seek some explanation for the miracle. Peter took the opportunity to inform the crowds about the source of the healing, Jesus and the power of His Name!   We have no choice but to admit to ourselves and declare unto those who question the godly grace of God upon our lives that it is Jesus and His grace that has made us into the wonderful, better and beautiful people we have become. Left to ourselves, we could have become worse than those in the grip of flagrant sin and hopelessness. We must not be ashamed to declare that it Is JESUS AND the POWER OF HIS NAME!   It is Jesus and His grace that abounds to us, Jesus and His love that makes us accepted before the Father, Jesus and His Spirit that quickens our mortal frames and gives us the power to live right. It is Jesus first, last, and always Jesus. When people ask us how we have become unstoppable, let us raise our voices and declare, “IT IS JESUS!” FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Has your encounter with Jesus and His grace and love made any difference in your life? It must. And you must be quick to tell all you meet on your way, “I AM WHAT I AM BY THE GRACE OF GOD, IN THE NAME OF JESUS.”   PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I am grateful for the difference your Name makes in my life. Because of your grace, I am whole, hearty, and accepted before God. Please help me to tell everyone I meet on my way that you are the source of my transformed life. For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!  The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 37: Exodus 1-2 — Israel in Egypt; The Birth of Moses DAILY word study: STRONG The word “strong” in Acts 3:16 is derived from the Greek "stereóō" (στερεόω), meaning to make firm, establish, or strengthen. It signifies a complete and lasting transformation, not just a temporary boost of power but a state of being firmly established and unwavering. Peter boldly proclaimed that the lame man was made strong through faith in the name of Jesus. This act of healing was not merely about restoring mobility but about divine empowerment. It was a visible demonstration that Jesus is alive and still at work through His people. Theologically, this highlights that faith in Christ is not just about survival but about thriving in His strength. The same power that restored the lame man enables believers today to walk in spiritual confidence and fulfil their divine calling. Reflection: What areas of your life need God’s strengthening touch? Are you allowing the power of Jesus to establish and sustain you? Faith in His name does more than uplift; it transforms, secures, and empowers for His glory. Step into that strength today and point others to the Lord Jesus.

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 5 2025 | Acts 3:1-10 KEY VERSE: He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. Acts 3:8 (NIV)   MESSAGE: My, my, my, what a day for the lame beggar that fateful day when Peter and John showed up and brought him the healing power in the Name of the Lord Jesus! “He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God .” Acts 3:8, NIV.   Walking and jumping, and praising God was the outcome of joy because the reality and power of God had broken through his pain, poverty and disability; he had regained his humanity by the intervention of God. Where the Gospel light breaks into the darkness of the human condition, joy and celebration are bound to occur. God's redemptive grace empowers us to take our place in the human community. We really begin to live when we encounter God's grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He lifts us from the miry pit and puts a song in our mouths, a song of praise to our God.   As we shall see in the Book of Acts, wherever the Gospel reached, great rejoicing occurred (Acts 8:4-8, 39). You have been born again and given back your voice in God. Let us go forth the rest of life’s journey from our paralysed state to standing up, walking forth, leaping up and praising God! Praise the Lord!! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Have you received the Good News of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ? Are you walking in the light of the Word of God by the power of the Holy Spirit? If so, remind yourself to rejoice, no matter your circumstances. And remind other believers to take their time to rejoice.   PRAYER: Lord, so many things around me try to keep me down and to shut me down. But I pray for the power of the Holy Spirit so I can celebrate my salvation and help others to do the same. For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!   The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 36:   Genesis 50 — The Death of Jacob and Joseph DAILY word study: JUMPED The Greek word used for jumped in Acts 3:8 is ἥλατο (hēlato), derived from hallaomai, which means to leap, spring up, or move suddenly with joy. This word often signifies an overflowing response to something extraordinary. In the context of Acts 3:8, the man had been lame from birth, never experiencing the ability to walk. His jumping was a sign of complete restoration, demonstrating the fullness of God’s power in healing. It also fulfilled Isaiah 35:6, which prophesied, “Then the lame will leap like a deer.” His response was not just physical but also spiritual—he praised God, acknowledging that his miracle came from divine intervention. Reflection When God answers your prayers, how do you respond? Do you express gratitude like this man, or do you take your blessings for granted? A grateful heart recognizes every breakthrough as an opportunity to glorify God.

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 4 2025 | Acts 3:1-7 KEY VERSE: Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man's feet and ankles became strong. Acts 3:7 (NIV)   MESSAGE: It is important that we share our faith in God and the blessing it can be to others so that they come to believe in Him and grow in their walk with Him. When we share the truths of the Bible with people, we must reach out to them with any and all the physical and material help they need to embrace the truth and walk in it. When Peter and John announced what they had, power in the Name of Jesus Christ to command healing for the cripple at their word, Peter did not stop there; he took the beggar by his right hand and helped him to stand up. Remember that this man was lame from birth and had never stood up before. There was sufficient power in the Name of the Lord Jesus, but Peter’s hand in the lame man’s right hand was necessary to bring about God’s wondrous work of restoration. There are people who need your company, clothing, food, financial support, and your time as they respond to God's bountiful blessings and develop faith towards God through His Word. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are there people you know struggling with issues as they seek to respond to the Gospel or walk according to the Word of God? Are you praying for them and, where possible, sharing insights into the Word of God with them? Could you do some physical, practical things to help them get on their feet? Take action!   PRAYER: Lord Jesus Christ, you came to help me and help me in all ways. Please help me give somebody a helping hand, beginning today and lasting always. For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 35:   Genesis 48-49 — Jacob Blesses His Sons DAILY word study: HELPED The Greek word used for helped in Acts 3:7 is "krateō" (κρατέω), meaning to take hold of firmly, to strengthen, or to support. This word conveys a forceful grip, indicating Peter’s firm and decisive action in lifting the man up. Peter didn’t just speak healing—he physically assisted the man in standing up, showing the necessity of pairing faith with action. Theologically, krateō highlights how God’s power works through human participation. Just as Jesus touched and healed many, Peter extended a tangible act of faith. The miracle was not just about healing but about active involvement in another’s breakthrough. Reflection: Who in your life needs not just encouragement but a helping hand? Faith isn’t passive—it moves, lifts, and strengthens. Are you willing to be the hand God uses to help someone rise?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 3 2025 | Acts 3:1-7 KEY VERSE: Then Peter said, "Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk. Acts 3:6 (NIV)   MESSAGE: It is important to each one of us that we gauge and confirm for ourselves what resources God has placed in us and in our hands. No human being, especially no child of the King of the Kingdom of God, can rightly and truly say that they are not resourced to serve God’s purposes. God has given us something we can engage, use or release at every point in time to bring about God’s rich purposes. To Moses’ concerns about convincing the Israelites that Yahweh had sent him and to prepare him to go on that important errand, the LORD said, " What is that in your hand ?" Ex 4:2 (NIV). When Moses could identify what he had in his hand, a staff provided by God ultimately, he was given the directives to bring about the salvation of Israel.   In our text today, Peter and John identified what they had in their hands that could benefit the beggar. They did not have precisely what the beggar was asking for, money, but they had something more important: the God-given power to heal him in the mighty Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Church may not have the silver and gold to solve the problems of our nations, but we have the everlasting, life-transforming Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. As we share it and bring people into the Kingdom of God, we do what no educational system or international monetary system can for our communities and the larger society: create qualitative, honest, and highly productive human capital. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What has God given you to succeed in life, help others find their path, and contribute to the Church and society? If you have something, please identify it and use it!   PRAYER: Lord, open my eyes so that I may see what you have given me to use, and give me the boldness to engage in my blessings. For your dear Name’s sake.   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 34:   Genesis 46-47 — Jacob’s Family Moves to Egypt DAILY word study: GIVE The Greek word for "give" in Acts 3:6 is δίδωμι (didōmi), which means to bestow, grant, or offer something of value to another. It carries the sense of intentional generosity and divine empowerment, often implying the transfer of authority, blessing, or provision. In the biblical context, "give" is not limited to material wealth. When Peter and John tell the lame man, "What I have I give you," they demonstrate that the greatest gifts are not always tangible. This aligns with Jesus' teaching that the most valuable gifts are those that bring spiritual renewal (John 14:27). True giving is about offering what God has deposited in us—whether it be wisdom, faith, encouragement, or the power of prayer. Reflection How do you perceive giving? Are you limiting it to financial contributions, or are you aware of the spiritual and relational resources God has entrusted to you? Identify what God has given you, and use it to impact those around you.

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 2 2025 | Acts 3:1-5 KEY VERSE: “⁴ Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" ⁵So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. Acts 3:4-5 (NIV)   MESSAGE: There are many people who seek to receive benefits from others, and even from God, without investing interest in the other person or God, as the case may be. In our desire to relate with people and with God Himself, it is necessary that we learn to give attention so that we can receive attention back.   Our text today displays the dynamic of the thought above in a striking way. The lame beggar saw Peter and John (verse 3), and by that casual seeing, he counted them as some of the many people he saw every day as he laid at his post of begging at the Gate Beautiful. He, therefore, made a casual usual request for money. It is at this point that the lesson emerges; ‘ Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, "Look at us!" So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them . (Acts 3:4-5). The text is particular to indicate that Peter looked at the man, and John also looked at the man. They were giving attention to a human being created in the image of God, and yet badly affected by the fallen state of humanity that he would be a beggarly lame man. They were carrying in their bosom the memory of the healing restorative ministry of their crucified resurrected Jesus and believed they had something to offer this man. But to give what they had, they requested of the beggar, "Look at us!"   We must connect with others if we are to benefit from our relationship with them. We must connect to God and His agents (not worship them) if we are to be blessed by God. The lesson is similar to what we read in Num 21:8-9 (NIV): ‘8   The Lord said to Moses, "Make a snake and put it up on a pole; anyone who is bitten can look at it and live." 9   So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, he lived.’ FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you connecting properly with people and with God, or are you being distanced, detached and unduly demanding of others and insisting on benefits that you desire from them?   PRAYER: Lord, you demand that we look to Christ on the cross so that we can live. Please help me to truly believe, look and live. Please help me pay attention to people so I may also receive due attention. For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!  The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 33:   Genesis 45 — Joseph Reveals Himself to His Brothers DAILY word study: ATTENTION The Greek word for "attention" in Acts 3:5 is prosechō (προσέχω), which means to give heed, focus on, or be devoted to something or someone. Prosechō conveys an intentional, undivided concentration, often used in Scripture to emphasize the importance of vigilance in faith and relationships. The lame man initially sought material help, but Peter and John directed his focus toward something far greater—spiritual and physical healing. In biblical usage, "prosechō" often appears in contexts where a person must shift their focus to receive divine instruction or warning (Hebrews 2:1, 1 Timothy 4:16). True transformation begins when we fully direct our attention to what God is doing and through us. Reflection: Are you truly paying attention to God’s movement in your life, or are you distracted by superficial desires? What areas of your life need a shift from casual observation to intentional focus?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | February 1 2025 | Acts 3:1-5 KEY VERSE: “One day Peter and John were going up to the temple at the time of prayer — at three in the afternoon.”   Acts 3:1 (NIV)   MESSAGE: God made humans as relational beings, capable of relating with Him, creation, and other humans. Our relationship networks with other people are based upon blood relationships of family, marriage, ethnicity, nationality and our common humanity. One factor that brings us together with other people is the personal choice we exercise when we choose marital partners and friends. The New Testament narrative shows a closeness and bond between the Apostles Peter and John. We know that Peter had his own brother Andrew among the Twelve Apostles, just as John had his blood brother James (Matthew 10:2) among the Twelve Apostles. However, we see a closeness and joint activity between Peter and John. We learn that when Mary Magdalene first saw the empty tomb of the Lord Jesus Christ, she ran to report specifically to Peter and John (John 20:1-2). In our text for today, we see the same two going to the Temple together during the time of prayer. What brought these two into such a close working, living, and loving relationship? Some have thought that John, because he was so dearly loved by the Lord (he is referred to as “the disciple whom the Lord loved”), and we can also observe his emphasis on love in his epistles (1 John, 2 John, and 3 John), was the one disciple who embraced Peter after his terrible failure of denying the Lord and shared in his sorrow following his repentance. What do you think brought them so close together? Whatever it was, the closeness and partnership is evident. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Christian living provides for friendship, and Christ is our friend who sticks closer than a brother. Do you have people with whom you can say you have a godly attachment and friendship? Are you a person who will be happy to say, “This is my friend”?   PRAYER: Lord, it excites me to declare that you are my Friend and closer to me than a brother. Please help me to develop such a personality that others will feel comfortable in my company, to share in life and work and your Kingdom. For your dear Name’s sake . Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 32:   Genesis 43-44 — Joseph Tests His Brothers DAILY word study: GOING UP The Greek word used for "going up" in Acts 3:1 is anabainō (ἀναβαίνω), meaning to ascend, rise, or go up. It carries a sense of both physical movement and spiritual elevation. The term is frequently used in Scripture to refer to going up to places of worship, highlighting an act of devotion and obedience. Peter and John "going up" to the temple signifies more than just a physical journey; it reflects their spiritual discipline and commitment to prayer. In Jewish tradition, the temple was the place where God’s presence dwelled, and going up to it was an act of reverence. This moment also sets the stage for the first miraculous healing recorded in Acts, demonstrating that God moves powerfully when His people are devoted to Him. Reflection: Are you intentional about "going up"—drawing closer to God in worship and prayer? What steps can you take to prioritize spiritual discipline in your daily life?

Rev. Tse Amable | January 31 2025 | Acts 2:42-47 KEY VERSE: “Now all who believed were together, and had all things in common, AND SOLD THEIR POSSESSIONS AND GOODS, AND DIVIDED THEM AMONG ALL, AS ANYONE HAD NEED.” Acts 2:44-45 (NKJV)   MESSAGE: One amazingly beautiful evidence of a soul that has been converted to Jesus Christ by the gospel is that that individual's wallets, pockets, and bank account have also been converted. To prove that a person is truly born again, check his attitude toward stewardship of money, wealth, and material resources. That person sees the Lord as the owner of everything he possesses and sees himself only as a manager or steward. This attitude frees him from the spirit of stinginess and releases a spirit of liberality in him.   The early church demonstrated a spirit of giving to care for one another within the fellowship—our key verses for today point to that truth. Later, we read that “all the believers were one in heart and mind. NO ONE CLAIMED THAT ANY OF HIS POSSESSIONS WAS HIS OWN, BUT THEY SHARED EVERYTHING THEY HAD” (Acts 4:32). This spirit of giving freely to support the needy within the Body of Christ was one notable characteristic of the Church of Jesus Christ. When you read the epistles of Apostle Paul, you will see how various churches supported the brethren in Jerusalem when they needed it. For example, we read “ FOR MACEDONIA AND ACHAIA WERE PLEASED TO MAKE A CONTRIBUTION FOR THE POOR AMONG THE SAINTS IN JERUSALEM ” (Romans 15:26). Apostle Paul testified to the Corinthians: “ And when I was with you and needed something, I was not a burden to anyone, FOR THE BROTHERS WHO CAME FROM MACEDONIA SUPPLIED WHAT I NEEDED”  (2 Corinthians 11:9).   If you don't enjoy freely giving to support the programmes and activities of your congregation, fellowship or denomination, I suggest you check your heart. You might have been born again only in your soul, but your wallet, pocket and bank accounts have not yet been converted to the ownership of the Lord. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you take pleasure in and love donating your money, wealth, and material resources to support the work of the church and to expand the kingdom of God? Do you believe that the Lord owns everything and that you are merely a steward, a manager? How do you respond to appeals for funds to aid needy believers?   PRAYER: Lord, I believe You own all my money and possessions. There is nothing I possess that I did not first receive from You. Take my silver and gold; I shall not withhold a mite from You. Such amazing love, so divine, demands my soul, my life, and my all. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 31:   Genesis 42 — Joseph’s Brothers Go to Egypt DAILY word study : POSSESSIONS The word "possessions" in Acts 2:45 is translated from the Greek "ktḗmata" (κτήματα ), which refers to acquired property, material goods, or wealth. This term highlights ownership of tangible assets, particularly land, homes, and valuables that one possesses. The root word, "ktaomai" (κτάομαι), means to acquire or gain, emphasizing the idea of accumulating resources. In the early church, possessions were seen not as personal wealth but as resources entrusted by God. The believers voluntarily sold their possessions and distributed the proceeds to meet the needs of the community. This act of radical generosity reflected their deep commitment to koinonia (fellowship) and mutual care. Rather than hoarding wealth, they viewed everything they had as belonging to God, demonstrating a shift from ownership to stewardship. This was not an early form of communism but a Spirit-led act of love and unity, showing that material blessings are meant to serve God's purposes. Reflection: How do you perceive your possessions? Are they yours to keep, or are they resources God has entrusted to you for His work? A transformed heart leads to open hands—willing to give, share, and serve. What step can you take today to use your possessions for God’s Kingdom?

Rev. Tse Amable | January 30 2025 | Acts 2:42-47 KEY VERSE: “They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Acts 2:42 (NIV)   MESSAGE: One truth about Jehovah is that He loves family. Before the church was established, the Lord created the family, consisting of a father (male), a mother (female), and children. Similarly, the Lord places us in a spiritual family when we are born again by accepting Jesus Christ as our Lord. The Apostle Paul referred to our new family as “THE HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH” (Galatians 6:10). The NIV translates this as “THE FAMILY OF BELIEVERS.”  This is your church family – the congregation , sheepfold, home cell group, and the denomination   to which you belong . It is called FELLOWSHIP because we are fellows travelling to heaven on the ship  known as the  CHURCH.   Just as there are benefits to belonging to our natural families, we also receive blessings from being active members of a local assembly, congregation, or fellowship within the wider Church Universal. The programmes of the fellowship (e.g. preaching, teaching, Sunday School, prayer meetings, love feasts, etc.) are designed to keep you spiritually alive and strong. You benefit from mutual love, care, and sharing by staying connected to your fellow believers in the fellowship. Just as pieces of charcoal burn brighter when they are together but extinguish when scattered, your passion for the things of God will be stronger when you maintain fellowship with the brethren, but it will grow cold and eventually die when you cease participating in fellowship (church) programmes.   The Bible commands us: “ And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching”  (Hebrews 10:24-25).   STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR CHURCH FAMILY!   DON’T EVER MISS THE FELLOWSHIP OF THE BRETHREN!! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you love the fellowship of the brethren? Can you say with the psalmist, “I was glad when they said unto me, LET US GO INTO THE HOUSE OF THE LORD ”? How has your attendance at various meetings and services of your congregation, assembly or Christian fellowship been a blessing to you? PRAYER: Father, I thank you for the blessings of belonging to my family of believers. Help me to love the House of God, where there is fullness of joy and pleasures for evermore and where all my needs – spiritual, physical, material, social, emotional, etc. - are met. Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 29:   Genesis 41 — Joseph Interprets Pharaoh’s Dreams DAILY word study: FELLOWSHIP The word "fellowship"  in Acts 2:42 is translated from the Greek "koinōnia" (κοινωνία) , meaning "sharing, participation, communion, or partnership." It signifies an intimate bond among believers, rooted in their common faith in Christ. In the early church, koinōnia  was more than just social interaction; it represented spiritual unity, mutual support, and shared purpose in Christ. It was a divine partnership where believers strengthened one another through worship, prayer, and communal life. This depth of fellowship was crucial in fostering the rapid growth of the early church, as they not only studied the Word together but also cared for each other's needs. True Christian fellowship extends beyond attendance at church services—it involves active participation in a faith community. Are you merely present in church, or are you truly engaging in the life of the body of Christ? How can you strengthen your connection with fellow believers today?