Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 26 2024 | John 16:1-4 KEY VERSE: “But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.” John 16:4a (ESV)   MESSAGE: Today we will take a look at the second crucial word ‘Remember’ in our key verse. Jesus asked His disciples to remember His words when difficult times came. Did they remember as Christ anticipated? I believe they did and amazingly. The "these things" Jesus referred to were the trials and challenges His followers would face. By forewarning them, He prepared them to be forearmed. In Acts 4:17-31, we see this preparation in action. When Peter and John were threatened not to preach or teach in Jesus' name, they boldly questioned whether they should obey God or man. The entire congregation responded by turning to prayer, drawing strength from Psalm 2, and asking for boldness while God performed signs and wonders. In Acts 5:17-21, after being imprisoned, the apostles were miraculously released and continued preaching. Stephen, another example, was falsely accused and, despite facing death, delivered a powerful testimony with a shining face, ultimately forgiving those who shabbily treated him. (Acts 7:51-53). The early Church, having been warned about the coming hatred, was ready. Stephen’s martyrdom did not deter them; instead, it propelled the spread of the Gospel to new frontiers. (Acts 11:19ff).In Acts 12, even as James was killed and Peter imprisoned, the Church remained steadfast in prayer, resulting in Peter’s miraculous release. The chapter concludes with the death of King Herod, the tormentor, and verse 24 poignantly brings the contrast: “the word of God increased and multiplied” (Acts 12:23-24). Further in Acts 16:19-34, Paul and Silas were imprisoned, but instead of despairing, they prayed and sang hymns. God responded by opening the prison doors and breaking their chains, leading to the salvation of the jailer and his family. The concluding verses of Acts affirm the ultimate victory of Christ and His cause: “[Paul] proclaimed the Kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance” (Acts 28:30-31). Certainly, the Church remembered what Jesus Christ told them - the difficulties ahead but also remembered that He was in it with them unto victory. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Being true to Christ and His mission comes with a cost. This truth remains unchanged for the modern Church. PRAYER : Lord Jesus Christ, help Your Church to reorient our minds and hearts toward You and Your mission. Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: REMEMBER The Greek word for "remember" is "μνημονεύω" (mnēmoneuō), which means to call to mind, to recall, or to be mindful of something that was said or done. Jesus uses this word to emphasize the importance of recalling His teachings and warnings when the disciples encounter difficulties. Jesus highlights that His previous warnings about the coming persecution are meant to serve as a foundation for the disciples’ faith when facing trials. This "remembering" is a form of spiritual preparedness, enabling them to remain steadfast and not lose faith when confronted with hostility or suffering. Reflections How can you actively recall and apply Jesus' teachings in your life, especially during moments of difficulty or uncertainty?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 25 2024 | John 16:1-4 KEY VERSE: “But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.” John 16:4a (ESV)   MESSAGE: Two key words in today's key verse are "hour" and "remember." The concept of "hour" or timing is a central theme in the Gospel of John. In Galatians 4:4, we are reminded that Christ came "in the fullness of time." The historical context of Jesus' coming, often referred to as the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), provided a period of relative stability and order, which allowed for significant events, such as Paul's challenge against wrongful imprisonment, to take place. Israel, after 400 years without a prophet, was spiritually hungry for God's Word. Meanwhile, Greek, the universal language of the day, enabled the spread of the Gospel across diverse populations. This demonstrates God's perfect timing in orchestrating events. In the Gospel of John, we learn timeless principles for life and ministry through Jesus' understanding of timing. In John 2:4, Jesus refuses to be hurried into action, choosing to work according to His own divine schedule. This teaches us that, without a clear focus or purpose, we risk being led by the expectations and demands of others. In John 7:1-14, Jesus ignores the sceptical advice of His unbelieving brothers and instead attends the Feast on His own terms, following His own divine agenda. In John 12:27, Jesus is fully aware of His "hour" — the impending crucifixion, which is the very reason for His incarnation. Though the task is daunting, He faces it head-on, fulfilling His mission without hesitation. In John 13, Jesus speaks of His imminent return to Heaven and ensures He completes His mission on earth. Similarly, the Apostle Peter, aware that his earthly journey was nearing its end, intensified his efforts to fulfil his calling (2 Peter 1:12-15). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: In both life and ministry, we each have specific tasks assigned to us and a set time to accomplish them. Youthfulness does not last forever, retirement will eventually come, and death is inevitable. Let us take time to reflect on these truths and consider how we are using the time we've been given. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, grant me the wisdom to navigate the stages of my life with the right mindset and to fulfil my responsibilities faithfully. Amen.  THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : HOUR The word "hour" in John 16:4a comes from the Greek word "ὥρα" (hōra), which can be translated as "hour," "time," or "moment." It often signifies a specific, appointed time in a broader theological or eschatological context. In the Gospel of John, "hour" frequently refers to a significant moment in God's redemptive plan, such as the time of Jesus' crucifixion and glorification (John 2:4, 12:23, 17:1). The reference to "hour" highlights God's sovereign control over time and events. The trials the disciples will face are part of a larger divine plan, and their timing is not accidental but purposeful. Jesus uses "hour" to signify a period when the disciples' faith will be tested, and they will experience opposition from the world. This usage is consistent with the Gospel of John’s theme of appointed times, underscoring a period predetermined in God’s sovereign plan. Reflections The concept of "hour" in this passage encourages believers to trust in God's timing and sovereignty, especially during periods of trials and suffering. Cultivate a deeper trust in God's timing and preparation, especially when facing your own "hour" of trial or testing

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 24 2024 | John 16:1-4 KEY VERSE: “ And they will do these things, because they have not known the Father nor me.” John 16:3 (ESV)   MESSAGE: Jesus foretells a time when His followers would be persecuted—expelled from their places of worship and even killed—by those who believe they are serving God. The root cause of this tragic behaviour, Jesus explains, is a profound lack of knowledge: they do not truly know the Father or the Son. This ignorance is evident throughout the Gospels. Despite the many signs and miracles Jesus performed, the Jewish leaders and many of the people failed to recognize Him as the promised Messiah, unable to see that the Father and the Son are one. In John 20:30-31, the Apostle John writes, “Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”  Unfortunately, many missed these opportunities to believe. Apostle Peter further emphasizes this in Acts 3:13-15 when he addresses the people: “ ¹⁴But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, ¹⁵ and you killed the Author of life, ...” This was a grave mistake—a “wrong choice of abysmal proportions,” as Paul reflects in 1 Corinthians 2:8, where he explains that if people had truly understood, they would not have crucified “the Lord of glory.” FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: 2 Corinthians 4:4 reminds us of the spiritual battle we face: the enemy blinds people to the truth of the gospel. Acts 26:18, however, calls us to action, to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light. Let us make it our priority to help others come to know Christ. PRAYER: Lord, let Your concern for the lost be our concern as well. Instil this same passion within Your church. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: NOT KNOWN The phrase "not known" in John 16:3 is derived from the Greek word "οὐκ ἔγνωσαν" (ouk egnōsan). The word "ἔγνωσαν" (egnōsan) is the aorist active indicative form of "γινώσκω" (ginōskō), which means "to know," "to perceive," or "to understand." In this context, "οὐκ" (ouk) negates the verb, implying a lack of knowledge or understanding. Therefore, "not known" conveys a lack of recognition or awareness. the context in which "οὐκ ἔγνωσαν" is used in John 16:3. speaks about Jesus addressing the spiritual condition of those who oppose His followers. Their failure to recognize Jesus as the Son of God and their ignorance of the Father's nature is what leads them to believe they are righteous while acting in opposition to God's will. This ignorance is not merely a lack of factual knowledge; it is a refusal to accept the truth that Jesus has revealed about Himself and the Father. Reflections In what ways can you deepen your relational knowledge of God to ensure that your faith and actions are grounded in His truth rather than a misunderstanding of His will?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 23 2024 | John 16:1-4 KEY VERSE: “Indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God.” John 16:2b (ESV)   MESSAGE: From our key verse for today’s devotion, it's as if the Lord Jesus is saying, "If expulsion shocks you, then you haven’t heard the worst yet. God's people will be murdered, and the killers will believe they are offering a service to the Triune God." What a profound deception, likely from the stable of Satan himself, who was a murderer from the beginning (John 8:44). Saul and others wielded the weapon of death against the disciples of Christ. In Acts 23:12-15, some Jews even took an oath to neither eat nor drink until they had killed Paul. Church history reminds us of the early Reformers who were killed and burned. Some of our spiritual forebears were mercilessly drowned because they advocated for water baptism. We can also recall the Martyrs of Uganda and our own Samuel Otu of Techimantia. Ironically, this method hasn’t proven effective for those opposing the Gospel. Being forewarned, the people of God became forearmed. The death of Stephen, for instance, led the Church to scatter and spread the Gospel as directed (Acts 1:8, 8:1, and 11:19). Death has not been the deterrent that the adversaries of the Gospel anticipated.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: The early Church rejoiced in suffering for the sake of Christ. Paul was ready for imprisonment, even death. Seeking to obliterate suffering from the faith is not Biblical.   PRAYER: Lord Jesus, please help us to embrace the whole package of the Gospel. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : SERVICE TO GOD The term "service to God" in John 16:2b is tied to the Greek word "λατρεία" (latreia) , which generally means worship or religious service. However, in this context, it refers to actions done in the name of religious duty or devotion. The phrase indicates a misguided sense of worship where individuals believe their actions, such as persecuting Jesus' followers, are acts of faithfulness to God. This statement reflects the distorted perception of zealotry and religious fervour that can lead people to commit grievous acts, all while believing they are righteous. This forewarning is crucial because it reveals the extent of misunderstanding and spiritual blindness that Jesus' disciples would face from the religious authorities and others who saw them as heretics. Reflections: How do you discern whether your actions and beliefs are truly in line with God's will, rather than being driven by personal or cultural misunderstandings of what it means to serve God?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 22 2024 | John 16:1-4 KEY VERSE: They will put you out of the synagogues. John 16:2a (ESV)   MESSAGE: The non-Jewish worshipper may not see the import of the action of the key verse for today's devotional. What’s the big deal? You put me out, I join another church or denomination. I may even start my own worship centre. The modern worshipper may not blink an eye and say I can do virtual worshipping. Not so with the Jewish worshipper of the time. The implications of the sacking are dire: No communion with God at the assigned place No Scripture hearing No homily The ban from the synagogue was most unfortunately a wicked tool in the hands of the oppressors. No doubt, in John 9:18-22, the parents of the man born blind and now healed, disassociated themselves from him - in relation to his healing No doubt it was a haunting ground of Persecutor Saul for the devout Jew will want to go worship (Acts 9:2). Let’s remember the early church for a time worshipped in the Synagogue (Acts Chapters 4&5) Let it be added that some church reformers have suffered expulsion throughout church history.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: As seen, the capricious leaders used expulsion to gag dissent and even people from believing in Jesus. An Episcopal Bishop can use the transfers to gag ministers and families. A Congregational Moderator may never see the raised hand of a perceived critic. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, help us to be true to our actions and motives. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: PUT YOU OUT The phrase "put you out" comes from the Greek word "ἀποσυνάγωγος" (aposynagōgos), which means "expelled from the synagogue" or "excommunicated." This term specifically refers to being cast out from the Jewish community and religious life, which was a significant consequence for early Jewish believers in Jesus. Being expelled from the synagogue meant more than just losing a place of worship; it involved social ostracism, economic repercussions, and a loss of community and identity. Jesus uses this strong language to prepare His disciples for the reality of their future as His followers. The prior information He provides is intended to fortify them against the trials they will endure, ensuring they remain faithful despite the potential for significant personal loss. Reflections: Are you prepared to endure social and relational costs for the sake of your faith in Jesus, even if it means being "put out" or ostracized by those around you?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 21 2024 | John 16:1-4 KEY VERSE: ” I have said all these things to you to keep you from falling away”. John 16:1(ESV)   MESSAGE: It has been a long conversation with His disciples about His imminent departure and some subsequent events. In John 14: 29, the Lord Jesus had said that the prior information was for the purpose that when it took place, His disciples would believe. Here, the reason is for his people to stay on course and not jump ship. Giving prior information of both good and bad news appears to be the nature of God. In Genesis 15:13 God tells Abraham not only the blessings but also the four hundred years of slavery of His People.  In John 6, the Lord gives some hard truths. Consequently, some of the Disciples left.  As if that wasn’t enough, He asked the twelve if they would also leave. They said they were committed to staying with Him. In Acts 9:15-16, God was going to show the Apostle Paul how much he would suffer for His Name's sake in relation to the great call. Apostle Paul did not hide from the churches, the fact that affliction is part of the Kingdom Package (1 Thessalonians 3:3&4)   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Adequate prior information produces authentic and not spurious converts and disciples. PRAYER: Lord help your Church to be truthful with the prior information. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : FALLING AWAY The phrase "falling away" is translated from the Greek word "σκανδαλισθῶσιν" (skandalisthōsin), which means "to stumble," "to be offended," or "to fall into sin." The word often carries the connotation of being led into a situation that causes someone to lose faith or abandon their commitment. The use of "falling away" here refers to the risk of the disciples losing their faith or abandoning their mission in the face of persecution. Jesus emphasizes that the challenges they will face are part of the journey of discipleship, and He provides this prior information to strengthen their resolve and keep them steadfast. Reflections: Jesus' warning about "falling away" highlights the importance of being spiritually prepared for the inevitable challenges that come with following Him. How can you prepare yourself spiritually to ensure that you remain steadfast in your faith, even when faced with trials and challenges?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 20 2024 | John 15:26-27 KEY VERSE: When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning. John 15:26-27 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Today’s devotion is Inspired by 3 young visitors I had from the Students Union of my denomination: Isaac, Serwaa and Akosua; and their hunger for Intimacy with the Holy Spirit. I present a poetic piece for your reflection as the Spirit of God would have it: In the quiet breath of dawn, the Spirit's whispers weave,  A sacred Advocate from heaven, where divine truths cleave.  He is the gentle voice of grace, sent forth from realms above,  To testify of Jesus' heart, to guide us in His love.  With wisdom pure as crystal streams and truth that lights the way,  The Spirit's presence walks beside, through night and break of day.   He comes to bear the truth of Christ, where shadows tend to fall,  In every whispered promise, in every tender call.  He breathes life into our weary hearts, with fire and gentle rain,  Empowering us to speak of Him, amidst both joy and pain.  From the Father, He is sent to lead us ever near,  To be our Advocate of grace, in whispers soft and clear.   And as He testifies of Christ, our voices join the song,  We share the truth of Jesus’ love, where all our souls belong.  Through Spirit's power, our hearts are stirred, our mission is renewed,  To bear witness to the Savior's grace, His love forever viewed.  In partnership with Spirit’s might, our witness boldly grows,  Reflecting Christ in every step, where faith and truth are sown.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on your relationship with the Holy Spirit. Desire greater intimacy with him. PRAYER: Let the Spirit lead you to pray. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: TESTIFY The term "testify" is translated from the Greek word "μαρτυρέω" (martyreō) . This verb means "to bear witness," "to affirm," or "to give evidence." It is a legal term used in the context of providing testimony in a court of law. In the New Testament, it often refers to bearing witness to the truth of Jesus Christ and His message. We learn from John 15:26-27 that the Holy Spirit will "testify" about Jesus, affirming His identity and mission. The Holy Spirit’s role is to continue the work of Jesus by bearing witness to the truth and empowering the disciples to do the same. The Holy Spirit’s testimony is both a divine affirmation of Jesus and a source of empowerment for believers to spread the Gospel. Reflections : The presence of the Holy Spirit as the Advocate and witness to Jesus underscores the importance of bearing witness to the truth in our lives.

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 19 2024 | John 15:26-27 KEY VERSE: When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me. And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning. John 15:26-27 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Jesus introduces the Holy Spirit as the "Advocate" who will come to continue His work on earth. The Holy Spirit, described here as the "Spirit of truth," plays a crucial role in the life of the believer. He is sent from the Father to guide, comfort, and empower us in our spiritual journey. The Spirit’s primary task is to testify about Jesus, revealing His truth and bringing to light the significance of His life, death, and resurrection. Through the Holy Spirit, we receive deeper insight into Christ’s teachings and a more profound connection to His presence. The work of the Holy Spirit is essential for our understanding and experience of God. As the Spirit of truth, He illuminates our minds and hearts, enabling us to grasp the full meaning of Jesus’ message and to live in accordance with it. This divine guidance is not only about understanding but also about transformation. The Holy Spirit works within us to produce fruit that reflects the character of Christ, helping us to embody His love, joy, and peace. By testifying about Jesus, the Spirit ensures that our relationship with Him is vibrant and genuine. Jesus also calls His followers to testify about Him, just as the Holy Spirit does. Our witness is empowered by the Spirit, who equips us to share the truth of Jesus with others. As those who have been with Jesus from the beginning, we are entrusted with the mission to bear witness to His life and teachings. The Spirit not only helps us to testify effectively but also strengthens us to live out our testimony with authenticity and courage. Embracing the work of the Holy Spirit means partnering with Him in our witness, allowing His truth to shine through our lives and to impact the world around us.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Depend on the Holy Spirit to help live for Christ as a true witness to the world. Ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen you to be able to testify effectively of the works of Christ in your life. Ask Him to help you shine the light of Christ to the world. PRAYER: Help me Sweet Holy Spirit, to live above reproach and to shine the light of Christ in this dark world. Make me a witness to my generation. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : ADVOCATE The term "Advocate" is translated from the Greek word "Παράκλητος" (Parakletos) . This term is derived from the verb "παρακαλέω" (parakaleo), which means "to call to one's side," "to summon for help," or "to encourage." Parakletos can be translated as comforter, counsellor, helper, intercessor, or advocate. Each of these translations reflects different aspects of the Holy Spirit’s role in the life of a believer. The context of this promise is Jesus preparing His disciples for His departure and the challenges they will face. The Holy Spirit’s role is to continue Jesus’ work by guiding, teaching, and strengthening the believers. In John 14:16-17, Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit as another Advocate who will be with the believers forever, teaching them all things and reminding them of everything Jesus has said. This passage reinforces the continuous and supportive presence of the Holy Spirit in the believers' lives. Reflections: The Holy Spirit’s role is to empower us to live out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit’s guidance and strength in your daily walk with Christ, knowing that He is your Advocate?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 18 2024 | John 15:25 KEY VERSE: But this is to fulfil what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason. John 15:25 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Jesus reflects on how His rejection by the world fulfils Scripture, specifically the prophecy that "They hated me without reason." This statement underscores the deep connection between Jesus’ life and the Old Testament prophecies. Despite His miraculous works, profound teachings, and divine nature, Jesus faced intense hatred and opposition from those He came to save. This fulfilment of Scripture reveals the consistency of God’s plan throughout history and highlights the inevitability of Christ's suffering as part of the redemptive narrative. The fulfilment of this prophecy serves as a reminder that God's Word is always reliable and accurate. Even when we face challenges or misunderstandings, we can trust that God's plan is unfolding according to His perfect design. Jesus' suffering and rejection were not random occurrences but were foretold and purposeful. This fulfilment reaffirms that Jesus’ mission was divinely orchestrated and that His suffering was an essential part of the redemptive work He came to accomplish. It provides assurance that, despite appearances, everything is proceeding according to God's plan. For us, the fulfilment of this Scripture calls us to a deeper trust in God's promises and His sovereignty. It reminds us that God’s plans are far-reaching and intricate and that every aspect of Jesus’ life and mission was foretold and intentional. As we face our own trials and moments of misunderstanding, we can find comfort in knowing that God is working out His purposes, just as He did through the life of Christ. Embracing the fulfilment of Scripture not only strengthens our faith but also encourages us to live with confidence in God’s ongoing work in our lives and in the world.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you know what scripture has said about you? Is your life fulfilling scripture? Which part and aspect of your life is fulfilling scripture? If God said it about you, then know that it will surely come to pass. Wrestle in prayer for its expedited manifestation. PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I believe every prophetic word you have spoken concerning my life. I engage the Holy Spirit in prayer and align for its speedy manifestation. In Jesus’s name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: WITHOUT REASON The phrase "without reason" translates from the Greek word "δωρεάν" (dorean) , which means "freely" or "without cause." In the context of John 15:25, it indicates an unjustified or baseless hatred. The world's baseless hatred of Jesus shows their deep-seated sinfulness and rejection of divine truth. This irrational hostility fulfils prophecies like Psalm 35:19 and Psalm 69:4, showing the continuity with Old Testament predictions. The world's opposition wasn't due to Jesus' actions but stemmed from rejecting God's plan. Jesus' suffering, fulfilling Scripture, calls His disciples to embrace their persecution as part of God's redemptive narrative. Reflections: Despite His love and miracles, the world's response was one of unfounded hostility, fulfilling the prophetic words of the Old Testament. How does understanding the fulfilment of Scripture through Jesus' unjust suffering challenge you to respond to opposition and persecution in your own faith journey?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 17 2024 | John 15:22-24 KEY VERSE:  If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. John 15:22 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Jesus addresses the issue of accountability and the weight of sin. He points out that His presence, teachings, and miracles have exposed the true nature of sin and the rejection of God. Before Jesus came, there was a level of ignorance about the depth of sin. However, with His arrival and His revelation of God's truth and works, people are now fully accountable for their response to Him. This heightened accountability is not just a matter of knowing the truth but involves the deliberate choice to accept or reject it. Jesus’ words remind us that exposure to the light of truth brings a responsibility to respond. When we are confronted with the reality of our sin through Jesus’ teachings and works, we can no longer claim ignorance or excuse our behaviour. The presence of Christ in our lives, through His word and actions, makes us aware of the areas where we fall short and the need for repentance. This accountability is a call to recognise our sinfulness and turn toward the grace Jesus offers. It is an opportunity to embrace His forgiveness and to live in alignment with His teachings. To turn our lives from sinfulness to a life in the light of meaningfulness in Christ. The refusal to acknowledge this accountability and the rejection of Jesus also reflect a rejection of the Father. Jesus shows that hating Him equates to hating God because He represents the full revelation of the Father. Understanding this connection deepens our appreciation for the gravity of sin and the importance of accepting Jesus as our Savior. This acknowledgement of our accountability not only leads to personal growth but also strengthens our relationship with God, guiding us toward a life that honours Him.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: As we are made aware of our sins and the need for repentance, let us respond with humility and faith, embracing the forgiveness and transformation that Jesus offers. PRAYER: Search me Lord, and try my thoughts. May I not be found wanting when it comes to living right in obedience to your word. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: NO EXCUSE The phrase "no excuse" in this context of John 15:22-24 comes from the Greek word "πρόφασις" (prophasis) , which means a pretext or reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason. Here, it signifies that the people have no valid defence or justification for their sin because they have been directly exposed to Jesus’ teachings and miracles. Jesus' teachings and miracles clearly hold us accountable for our sins, removing any claim to ignorance. Rejecting Both believers and non-believers are shown that with Jesus' revelation of truth, there is no valid pretext for continuing in sin. Reflections: Jesus' presence and actions reveal the true nature of sin and remove any excuse for it. How does knowing that there is no excuse for sin after encountering Jesus' teachings and works challenge you to live a life of greater accountability and faithfulness?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 16 2024 | John 15:20-21 KEY VERSE: They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me. John 15:21 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Jesus prepares His followers for the reality of persecution. He reminds us that as His servants, we are not greater than our Master. Just as He faced rejection, hostility, and persecution, we too will encounter similar opposition if we faithfully follow Him. This truth can be difficult to accept, but it is crucial for understanding the cost of discipleship. The world’s resistance to Jesus often manifests as resistance to His followers because our lives and messages challenge the values and priorities of a world that does not know God.   Jesus makes it clear that the persecution we face is not a reflection of our failure but rather a confirmation that we are aligned with Him. Those who rejected Jesus will likely reject us because we carry His name and message. However, this persecution is not without purpose. It identifies us with Christ and strengthens our faith as we rely on Him in the midst of adversity. Additionally, Jesus assures us that just as some rejected Him, others will obey our teaching, demonstrating that the Gospel still has the power to transform lives, even in the face of opposition.   Facing persecution for Christ’s sake is a reality that can be both daunting and encouraging. It reminds us that we are part of a larger spiritual battle, but it also affirms that we are on the right path, following in the footsteps of our Savior. Persecution for the sake of Christ is an opportunity to witness the power of His love and truth, even when it costs us.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: As you encounter opposition, stand firm in your faith, knowing that you are not alone—Jesus is with you. Depend on His strength to carry you through. Endure the persecution, and glorify God by bearing witness to the hope that is in you. Shine as a light in a dark world. PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for your assurance that in these trying times I do not stand alone. Grant me the boldness to stand tall in witnessing the light that shines in the darkness of this world. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: TREAT The Greek word for "treat" used in John 15:21 is "ποιέω" (poieō), which means to do, make, or act. In this context, it refers to how the world will act towards or treat the disciples of Jesus. This treatment includes the various forms of persecution and opposition that the followers of Jesus will face. The use of "ποιέω" (poieō) in the context of John 15:21 implies that followers of Jesus should expect persecution as a natural result of their association with Him. This persecution identifies believers with Jesus, sharing in His mission and sufferings. Enduring such opposition serves as a powerful testimony to their commitment and faith. Reflections:  Jesus does not shy away from the reality of persecution for His followers. How can you prepare your heart and mind to endure persecution for Christ's sake, and how can your response to such treatment serve as a testament to your unwavering faith and commitment to Jesus?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 15 2024 | John 15:20-21 KEY VERSE: Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. John 15:20 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Jesus speaks plainly about the reality of persecution for those who follow Him. It’s natural to wonder, “Can’t we skip the persecution part?” No one desires hardship or opposition, yet Jesus clearly states that if the world persecutes Him, it will persecute us as well. This is not because we seek trouble, but because our lives as His disciples stand in contrast to the values of the world. Persecution comes as a consequence of living out the truth of Christ in a world that often resists it. Jesus is honest about the challenges of discipleship, urging us to understand that this is part of the journey with Him. Persecution, as difficult as it may be, serves a greater purpose in our spiritual lives. It refines our faith, deepens our reliance on God, and strengthens our testimony. When we face opposition for Christ’s sake, we share in His sufferings, deepening our connection with Him. Moreover, persecution often highlights the transformative power of the Gospel. The very resistance we face can become a powerful witness to others as they see the strength, peace, and hope we have in Christ, even in the midst of trials. Skipping persecution would mean missing out on the ways God uses it to grow us and to reveal His glory. While it’s tempting to wish for a path free of persecution, Jesus calls us to embrace the reality that following Him includes challenges. However, He also promises His presence, strength, and ultimate victory. We may not be able to skip the persecution part, but we can face it with confidence, knowing that Jesus has already overcome the world. When faced in faith, our trials become testimonies of God’s sustaining grace. As we endure, we not only grow in our relationship with Christ but also shine His light in a world that desperately needs His truth and love.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Persecution is sometimes necessary to push us to live up to God’s standards, so endure it. For the sake of the Gospel let's use the resistance we face as a powerful witness to others about Christ and His love for them. PRAYER: Give me oil in my lamp and keep me burning. May my oil never run dry in the face of persecution. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study : PERSECUTE "διώκω" (diōkō) is the Greek word for persecute. It means to pursue, harass, or oppress. This term often connotes a persistent and hostile pursuit with the intent to cause harm or suffering. In the context of John 15:20-21, the word is used by Jesus to draw a parallel between His own experiences and what His followers can expect. The persecution Jesus speaks of is a systematic and hostile opposition rooted in the world’s rejection of Him and His teachings. Jesus' submission further indicates that persecution is a natural consequence of living in contrast to the world’s values and aligning with him. Reflections: Persecution is not a sign of failure but a mark of true discipleship. How can you strengthen your faith and commitment to Jesus in the face of persecution, and how can your response to suffering serve as a witness to the transformative power of His love?