Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 2, 2024 | John 15:4-5 KEY VERSE: Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. John 15:4-5 (NIV) MESSAGE: In today’s verses, we see Jesus inviting us to remain in Him, just as a branch remains in the vine. This metaphor emphasizes the importance of a close, continuous connection with Christ for our spiritual vitality and fruitfulness. Just as a branch derives its life and sustenance from the vine, we draw our spiritual nourishment and strength from our relationship with Jesus. Apart from Him, we cannot produce the fruit that reflects His character and fulfils His purpose in our lives. Abiding in Christ means living in constant awareness of His presence, relying on His strength, and seeking to align our lives with His will. Jesus makes it clear that our ability to bear fruit is entirely dependent on our connection to Him. When we remain in Him, His life flows through us, empowering us to produce the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This fruit is not the result of our efforts but the natural outcome of our relationship with Jesus. As we abide in Him, His words take root in our hearts, transforming our thoughts, attitudes, and actions. This transformation enables us to reflect His love and grace to those around us, fulfilling our calling as His disciples. The call to abide in Christ is both a privilege and a responsibility. It requires intentionality and commitment, but the rewards are immeasurable. When we prioritize our relationship with Jesus, making time for prayer, worship, and the study of His Word, we cultivate a deeper intimacy with Him. This abiding relationship not only sustains us but also equips us to navigate the challenges of life with faith and hope. Let us remain in Christ, drawing from His endless supply of grace and strength, so that we may bear much fruit and glorify God through our lives. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Make your relationship with Jesus a priority. Make time for Prayer, for worship and the Study of the Word. Build an intimate relationship with Him and be consistent in your fellowship. PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you today to help me build an intimate relationship with Jesus through the study of your Word and Prayer. Give me a hunger that can only be satisfied by fellowshipping with Him. And Lord, grant me the Grace to be consistent. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: REMAIN The word "remain" in John 15:4-5 translates from the Greek word "μένω" (menō), which means to stay, abide, dwell, or continue. It conveys the idea of a sustained, continuous presence or connection. The metaphor of the vine and branches illustrates the vital connection between believers and Christ. To "remain" in Christ means to maintain an ongoing, intimate relationship with Him, characterized by faith, obedience, and dependence. The mutual indwelling ("you in me, and I in you") underscores the depth of this relationship, emphasizing that spiritual vitality and fruitfulness are contingent upon this enduring union. Reflections: The call to "remain" in Christ is a call to a steadfast and enduring faith. It is an invitation to dwell continuously in His presence, drawing sustenance and strength from Him. In what practical ways can you cultivate a deeper and more consistent relationship with Christ, ensuring that you are abiding in Him and bearing the fruit that glorifies God?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 1, 2024 | John 15:3 KEY VERSE: You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. John 15:3 (NIV) MESSAGE: In John 15:3, Jesus tells His disciples that they are already clean because of the word He has spoken to them. This statement underscores the transformative power of Scripture in our lives. The Word of God is not just informative; it is transformative. It can cleanse, renew, and change us from the inside out. When we engage with Scripture, we open ourselves to God's purifying work, allowing His truth to penetrate our hearts and minds. This cleansing process helps us shed old habits, thoughts, and behaviours that do not align with God's will. The cleansing that comes from the Word is continuous and ongoing. As we read, meditate, and apply Scripture, we are continually being shaped and moulded into the image of Christ. This transformative process is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. Each time we immerse ourselves in God's Word, we are given the opportunity to grow and mature in our faith. The Holy Spirit works through the Scriptures to convict, comfort, and guide us, leading us into a deeper understanding of God's truth and a more intimate relationship with Him. Understanding the transformative power of Scripture compels us to prioritize our engagement with the Bible. It encourages us to approach the Word with expectancy, knowing that it holds the power to change our lives. As we commit to regular study and reflection on Scripture, we will experience its cleansing and renewing effects. Our thoughts, attitudes, and actions will be increasingly aligned with God's purposes, enabling us to live more fully as His disciples. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Let us embrace the transformative power of God's Word and allow it to cleanse and shape us into the people He has called us to be. Commit to a regular study of the Word. Don’t forget to practice the Word you study. PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I ask for grace to study your word daily. I ask for grace to hear your word daily. I ask for grace to meditate on your word daily and I ask for grace to practice your word daily. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: SPOKEN The word "spoken" in John 15:3 translates from the Greek word "λελάληκα" (lelalēka), which is a perfect active indicative form of "λαλέω" (laleō). This verb means "to speak" or "to utter words." The perfect tense indicates an action completed in the past with ongoing effects into the present. The use of the word, "spoken" in John 15:3 signifies the transformative and cleansing power of Jesus' teachings. The disciples are declared "clean" not because of any ritual or external act, but because of the internal purification brought about by Jesus' words. Reflections: How can you allow the transformative power of Jesus' words to cleanse and shape your life today?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | July 31, 2024 | John 15:1-2 KEY VERSE: I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. John 15:1 (NIV) MESSAGE: Jesus proclaiming Himself as the "true vine," is inviting us to contemplate the profound truth of our dependence on Him. The vine is the source of life for its branches, providing the necessary nutrients and support for growth and fruitfulness. Similarly, Jesus is our spiritual lifeline, from whom we draw all that we need to thrive in our faith journey. By identifying Himself as the true vine, Jesus distinguishes Himself from all other sources that may promise fulfilment but ultimately fall short. We are spiritually healthy and have vitality only because we are connected to Him, the true and only source of life. The role of the Father as the gardener emphasizes His dedication to our fruitfulness. Just as a gardener is invested in the vine’s health, carefully pruning, and nurturing each branch, God actively works to enhance our spiritual productivity. Though the pruning process can be trying, it is motivated by His love and intention for us to thrive. By removing the unproductive aspects of our lives, He moulds us into disciples who can bear more significant spiritual fruit. This process calls for our trust and cooperation, understanding that God’s efforts are for our ultimate benefit and His glory. Through His meticulous care, we become equipped to yield a richer and more enduring harvest, demonstrating His powerful work within us. Our intimacy with Christ will enable us to yield to the pruning of God in order to bear the fruits He desires of us. As we abide in Him, His life flows through us, producing the fruit of the Spirit that reflects His character and love for the world. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How intimate is your relationship with Christ the True Vine? Cultivate a daily, vibrant connection with Christ through prayer, the Word, and obedience. Let us allow ourselves to go through the discipline of the Father’s pruning. Let us evaluate our spiritual priorities and ensure our lives are rooted firmly in Jesus. The fruits of the Spirit will be inevitable. PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I yield to your discipline and pruning. No matter how unpleasant it is now. Guide my life and my walk with you, to bear the fruits that will please you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: GARDENER The term "gardener" in John 15:1 comes from the Greek word "γεωργός" (geōrgos), which means "farmer," "vine-dresser," or "gardener." This term describes someone who is responsible for cultivating, pruning, and caring for a vineyard. Understanding God as the gardener reveals His loving and deliberate involvement in our lives. Just as a gardener tends to every aspect of a vineyard to maximize its fruitfulness, God prunes and shapes our lives, encouraging spiritual growth and removing obstacles that hinder our productivity. Reflections: In what ways can you allow God, the gardener, to prune your life to become more fruitful and productive in your walk with Christ?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | July 30, 2024 | John 15:1-2 KEY VERSE: I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. John 15:1 (NIV) MESSAGE: In John 15:1, Jesus presents a metaphor that reveals the essential nature of our relationship with Him. By declaring Himself the "true vine," He emphasises that He is the authentic source of life and sustenance. This imagery calls us to recognise that just as a vine provides nourishment and growth to its branches, Jesus is the source of spiritual vitality for His followers. Our spiritual health and fruitfulness depend entirely on our connection to Him. Without the vine, the branches cannot thrive; they wither and die. Similarly, we cannot bear the fruit of righteousness without faith in Christ. Furthermore, Jesus introduces the Father as the gardener who tends to the vine. This role signifies God's active involvement in our spiritual growth. The gardener prunes the branches, removing anything that hinders their productivity. This pruning process, while sometimes painful, is essential for greater fruitfulness. God's pruning in our lives may come through trials, corrections, or challenges, but it is always for our ultimate good. He carefully and lovingly removes the dead or diseased parts, allowing us to flourish more fully in our relationship with Him. Trusting in the Father's wisdom and care, we can embrace the pruning process, knowing it leads to a more abundant and fruitful life. This passage invites us to examine the depth of our connection to Christ. We should desire to be in sync with Him and in doing so, we will bear much fruit, glorifying God and fulfilling our purpose. Let us remain steadfast in our connection to Christ, knowing that apart from Him, we can do nothing, but in Him, we have everything we need for a fruitful and abundant life. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are we fully abiding in Him, drawing our strength and sustenance from His presence? Do we trust the Father's pruning in our lives, even when it is difficult? As branches of the true vine let us remain in Jesus and allow His life to flow through us. PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, I am connected to you. Please help me to stay connected so I can be fruitful in fulfilling my purpose. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: TRUE VINE The phrase "true vine" in John 15:1 translates from the Greek words "ἡ ἄμπελος ἡ ἀληθινή" (hē ampelos hē alēthinē). "Ἄμπελος" (ampelos) means "vine," and "ἀληθινή" (alēthinē) means "true" or "genuine." Together, they signify the authentic source of life and sustenance. The imagery of the vine is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where Israel is often depicted as a vine or vineyard (e.g., Psalm 80:8-16; Isaiah 5:1-7). However, unlike Israel, which failed to produce good fruit, Jesus identifies Himself as the "true vine," emphasizing His role as the genuine and fruitful source of life. Reflections: Just as branches cannot survive or bear fruit apart from the vine, believers cannot thrive spiritually without remaining in Christ. How can you strengthen your connection to Jesus, the true vine, to ensure that your life bears lasting spiritual fruit?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 29, 2024 | John 14:30-31 KEY VERSE: I will not speak with you much longer, for the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on me, John 14:30 (NIV) MESSAGE: In the few hours after He had been speaking to the disciples, the Lord Jesus would be crushed in the mortar of affliction by Satan-inspired people who in the name of religion and of a search for political relevance would manipulate the mind of the populace and extract Roman permission to crucify the Holy One of God. The Lord could see the lurking demonic unleash and the apparent fury of evil; the prince of this world was going to put on a dazzling fanning display. But that is exactly where the narrative changes; the Lord was quick to add, “He has no hold on me.” When the devil does his most devilish worst against a Christian individual, a family, a church or a Christian institution we need to ask ourselves one question, DOES SATAN HAVE A HOLD ON US? A hold of Satan is anything in our soul, our thinking, feelings, attitudes and behaviour to which the Devil can lay claim or connect with. Always remember Satan is a litigant, and he will assert ownership where he has the least legal basis or right of claim. We should search our hearts if we have covenants with the enemy. If like the Master we can truly say that we have nothing of the enemy in our camp, then let the enemy do his worst, Heaven will sustain us and vindicate us in the long run. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Don't give the devil a foothold; he will turn it into a stronghold and hold you to ransom. PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, how I long to be like you, to truly and always say “the prince of this world is coming. He has no hold on me.” Please grant me the grace to be ahead of the enemy and to beat all his plans to entangle me. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: HOLD ON ME The phrase "hold on me" in John 14:30 translates from the Greek word "ἔχει" (echei), meaning "has," "holds," or "possesses." In this context, it implies having power, control, or influence over someone. This phrase underscores Jesus' sinlessness and His complete authority over evil. Unlike humans, who can fall prey to Satan's influence due to sin, Jesus remains untainted and sovereign. By declaring that Satan has no hold on Him, Jesus affirms His purity and the inability of any demonic power to exert control over Him. For believers, this is a powerful reminder of Jesus' ultimate authority over all evil and His ability to liberate us from sin. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in His victory, refusing to give Satan any foothold in our lives by remaining steadfast in our faith and obedience to God. Reflections: How can you rely on Jesus' victory over Satan to ensure that the enemy has no foothold in your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 28, 2024 | John 14:29 KEY VERSE: “I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.” John 14:29 (NIV) MESSAGE: If the Lord Jesus had died in our days the obituary would have read, WHAT A SHOCK! For the obituary of a young man of 33 years, one who was so gentle and kind, a miracle-worker, an excellent teacher with a possible political future of overthrowing the Roman colonial forces, being enthroned king of Israel and re-establishing the Kingdom of David, yes, WHAT A SHOCK! The shock would even be more when one considers the fact that He was arrested without Him resisting with His supernatural powers or calling down angels from God the Father, WHAT A SHOCK! The Lord Jesus prepared His disciples to see and understand that His death and the circumstances around it were not an accident to Him and were not to be a shock to them. As God in human flesh, He knew the end from the beginning and was therefore able to tell the disciples what was about to happen to Him. We as His disciples live with the veil of our humanity preventing us from knowing fully and understanding completely. There are many things about life and death, about the now and the future we cannot understand. But when we reflect on the life of the Master, we must appreciate the fact that He foreknew His impending death and set out to face it in order to purchase our salvation. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you surprised the world hates you, and that Satan and his demonic hosts find human accomplices to trouble you? Don’t be shocked, our Master warned us of these things. WHAT A SHOCK??? NOT A SHOCK!!! PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, you took the sting out of death and made empty the boast of the grave and of the devil and the world. Please help your Church to walk in your Spirit and to overcome in your victory. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: HAPPENS The Greek word translated as "happens" in John 14:29 is "γίνομαι" (ginomai). This verb means "to become," "to happen," or "to take place." It conveys the idea of something coming into existence or occurring. "Happens" (γίνομαι) is used to refer to the events that Jesus has predicted, including His death, resurrection, and return to the Father. Jesus is preparing His disciples for these future events, assuring them that these occurrences are part of God's divine plan. When these predicted events "happen," it will serve as confirmation of Jesus' words and His divine foreknowledge, thus eliminating any shock or surprise. Reflections: Believers are called to trust in Jesus' sovereignty, knowing that nothing happens outside of His control and knowledge. How does knowing that Jesus foretold future events to eliminate shock and build faith impact your trust in His sovereignty and His promises for your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 27, 2024 | John 14:28-29 KEY VERSE: You heard me say, 'I am going away, and I am coming back to you.' If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. John 14:28 (NIV) MESSAGE: To be with God the Father is the most exciting thing that could happen to any person. The Lord Jesus Himself was going to the Father, and He had promised His followers that He would prepare a place for them where the Father is and come and take them there. The blessedness of being with the Father was so much that the disciples should have rejoiced and been glad that He was going there. They, however, were more preoccupied with the fact that He was leaving them. When we lose loved ones in death it often gives us much pain. But if these loved ones loved the Lord and walked with Him in this life then our sorrow will have to be mixed with joy and be finally consumed with gladness that our departed loved ones are with the Father above. But we do not need to die before we can be with the Father! In our lifetime, as we choose to die to the sinful nature and choose the will of God, we bring ourselves by the help of the Holy Spirit where the presence of the Father is with us, He in is and we are in Him. When our friends and loved ones are in this blessed state then death is conquered in this life by the divine life, and this is great joy. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Have you died yet, are you with the Father? Strive to enter God's presence through the straight and narrow way. He longs to meet you on that road. PRAYER: Dear Father in Heaven, I am grateful that I can draw near to you in this life and finally when I cross the river of death. I desire to know You and to walk with You. Please help me by your Holy Spirit. In Jesus' Name! Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: GOING AWAY The Greek word for "going away" in John 14:28 is "ὑπάγω" (hypagō). This verb means "to go away," "to depart," or "to withdraw." It conveys a sense of moving from one place to another, often with a purpose or destination in mind. Here, "going away" (ὑπάγω) refers to Jesus' impending departure through His death, resurrection, and ascension. This departure is not merely a physical separation but a return to the Father, signifying the completion of His earthly mission and the fulfilment of divine purposes. Jesus reassures His disciples that His departure is beneficial for them because it means He will be with the Father, interceding on their behalf and preparing a place for them (John 14:2-3). Reflections: Jesus' "going away" is not a loss but a gain for believers. How does understanding Jesus' "going away" to be with the Father impact your faith and confidence in His ongoing presence and intercession in your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 26, 2024 | John 14:27 KEY VERSE: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27 (NIV) MESSAGE: The assurances of the Master of a place prepared for them in glory with God, the promise of the Holy Spirit, and the giving of the peace of God to the believers; all these should combine to give the disciples courage to hold on to their faith after the Master had been taken away from them. Individuals need peace, families need peace, nations need peace, and the Church of God needs peace. A world without peace cannot know progress. Peace is such an essential commodity which seems to have dodged humanity in spite of the millions of dollars spent by the United Nations over the years to secure it. Yet the peace the Lord Jesus was talking about was the personal inner orientation of rest. He was not talking of a peace imposed from the outside by the enforcement of rules. It is the peace which begins with our renewed relationship with God. Rom 5:1-2 says,“¹Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, ² through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” (NIV). The origin of human challenges was the Fall into sin, which put us in enmity with God. Once the peace with God is restored through faith in the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ we have peace. This peace is not what the world understands as peace. It is not so much the absence of trouble as the presence of God with us in trouble (Psalm 46). It is such peace as cannot be explained by psychology or philosophy, it is of God and transcends human understanding. It is the eternal sabbath for those who respond to the Great Call, ²⁸ "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ³⁰ For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Matt 11:28-30 (NIV). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Have you entered into this peace of God? Are you an agent of the peace of God? It all starts at Calvary when we accept the Lord Jesus as our Saviour and commit to Him as Lord over our lives. PRAYER: Dear God of peace, whose peace envelopes those who trust in you, I come to you in worship and gratitude for the peace that your presence in my life gives me. Lord Shalom, may I enjoy your peace, and may I be a true agent of that peace. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: LEAVE The Greek word translated as "leave" in John 14:27 is "ἀφίημι" (aphiēmi), which means "to send away," "to let go," "to forgive," or "to permit." In this context, it conveys the idea of bestowing or granting something as a lasting legacy. The use of "leave" (ἀφίημι) in John 14:27 emphasizes the intentional bestowal of peace by Jesus to His disciples. This peace is not temporary or worldly but divine and enduring, surpassing all human understanding. Jesus contrasts His peace with the temporary and often conditional peace offered by the world. The promise of peace serves as a comfort and assurance to the disciples in the face of Jesus' imminent departure and the trials they will encounter. Reflections: Jesus offers a peace that surpasses all earthly understanding, a peace that remains even in the midst of life's storms. This peace is a divine gift, one that Jesus has intentionally left for His followers to experience and cherish. In what ways can you embrace and experience the peace that Jesus has left for you, especially during times of turmoil and uncertainty?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 25, 2024 | John 14:25-26 KEY VERSE: ²⁵ "All this I have spoken while still with you. ²⁶ But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. John 14:25-26 (NIV)   MESSAGE: In this chapter, the Lord repeatedly calls His disciples' attention to the fact that He was about to leave them (vv. 35 and 38). His mission required it, and He had set His mind on accomplishing it. The concern He started chapter 14:1 with, the fear and anxiety of His followers in the apparent vulnerability they will suffer as a result of that is addressed again in the section for our reflection today. The solution to their anxiety, in verse 1, was to believe in the Father and the Son. In verse 26 believers are to embrace the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the Advocate, the Comforter to come to them and fortify them in their vulnerable moments. There could be no mistake as to who the Advocate is; it is not a human being then or later in history. The advocate is God the third Person of the Holy Trinity, the Holy Spirit. The promise of the Holy Spirit further underlines the fact that the salvation story is the work of the Triune God. The Father sends the Spirit, and He is sent in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. The One true God of the Bible is at once Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  The physical absence of the Lord Jesus does not leave His disciples without His presence. The same God is with us in and through the indwelling presence and ministry of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would teach believers what Jesus would have them know and would remind them of what the Lord Jesus had taught. Any spirit or person who claims to be the Advocate, but teaches contrary to what the Lord taught, exposes himself to be false. What a consolation that we can have God with us always who teaches us and reminds us of the things we need to know.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How conscious are you about the reality of the Holy Spirit and His presence with you and in you? Don't feel alone, ever, God is with you! PRAYER: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, it is my honour to host you in my life. Please help me to stay conscious that I am never alone. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: TEACH The Greek word for "teach" used in John 14:26 is "διδάξει" (didaxei) , which comes from "διδάσκω" (didaskō). This verb means "to instruct" or "to provide information in a manner intended to foster understanding and knowledge." From the verse, we learn about the Holy Spirit as a divine teacher who continues Jesus' work of instructing the disciples. The Holy Spirit imparts wisdom, understanding, and guidance, helping believers to comprehend and live out the teachings of Jesus. Reflections The Holy Spirit, as our Advocate, is actively involved in our spiritual growth, teaching us and reminding us of Jesus' words. This divine guidance helps us navigate our faith journey, ensuring we remain aligned with God's will. How can you be more receptive to the Holy Spirit's teaching and guidance in your daily life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 24, 2024 | John 14:23-24 KEY VERSE: He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me. John 14:24 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Talk is cheap, the saying goes, and this is true. It is very easy to pay lip service to God. Anybody can claim to be a disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ. But over and over, the Lord demands obedience upon those who claim to love Him and be His followers.   In John 14:23-24 the Lord Jesus states back-to-back, positively and negatively the demand HE makes of His assumed followers to obey His teachings. Positively He states “If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching.” John 14:23 (NIV). Negatively He declares, “He who does not love me will not obey my teaching.” (John 14:24). The litmus test of true discipleship is a commitment to obeying the teachings of Christ. Remember the words of the Master on another occasion:     ²¹ " Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. ²² Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' ²³ Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers !' Matt 7:21-23 (NIV).   The Apostle James puts it in another way, “ As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. ” James 2:26 (NIV).   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you walking the talk or just talking all the way? What is the correlation between what you claim to be, a follower of Jesus Christ, and your life? Are you letting Christ, by His Word and by His Spirit, change you into becoming like Him in this fallen evil world?   PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I am grateful that you make it abundantly clear that you demand obedience, and that you relate to us according to how we relate to your Word to us. Please help me subject myself to your Word and your Holy Spirit. May I become obedient to you more and more. For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DOES NOT LOVE The phrase "does not love" in Greek is "μὴ ἀγαπῶν" (mē agapōn), where "μὴ" (mē) is a negative particle meaning "not," and "ἀγαπῶν" (agapōn) is the present participle form of "ἀγαπάω" (agapaō), meaning "to love." This construction emphasizes the ongoing nature of the lack of love, indicating a continual state of not loving. The use of the phrase does not love emphasises that those who do not love Jesus will not obey His teachings, thereby revealing their true spiritual state. This clearly shows the link between love for Jesus and obedience to His commands, revealing that true faith is manifested in actions, not just words. It also emphasizes that Jesus' teachings are from God, and rejecting them is rejecting God Himself. Thus, obedience serves as the test of genuine love and faith. Reflections: John 14:24 challenges believers to examine their lives for evidence of true love and faith in Jesus, demonstrated by obedience to His teachings. How can you better demonstrate your love for Jesus through your obedience to His teachings?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 23, 2024 | John 14:22-24 KEY VERSE: Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him._ John 14:23 (NIV)   MESSAGE: Repetition, they say, is the mother of instruction. In other words, when a matter is of great importance and must be conveyed effectively, it calls for repeated mention. This is one of the principles of understanding the Bible. In our last reflection on John 14:15-21, we indicated the fact that obedience to the teachings of Christ promises access to God and fellowship with God. In our reflection for today, the Lord Jesus continues that thought and in answer to Judas (not Iscariot), " But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world? " John 14:22 (NIV), He replies " If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him , and we will come to him and make our home with him . John 14:23-24 (NIV). I wonder if any person needs anything more than the love of God, and the companionship of God. The assurance of the presence of God in life not only ensures the scaring away of the forces of evil and the challenges of life but also gives the believer the power to face up to and overcome the presence of pain, affliction, oppression and all the challenges of human existence. Joseph withstood the trials and opposition to his dream of greatness because “God was with Joseph.” It is when we choose to obey God that God brings us closer and lives with us.   FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: The realization of the promises of God in the lives of people is not accidental or coincidental; we must decide to be on the side of God so that God will decide to be on our side. Please make up your mind, and covenant with God in prayer.   PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, I am awed by your rich promise, together with the Heavenly Father to love me, to come to me and to stay with me. Please help me to truly love you and obey you, so that you will find the space to dwell with me. For your dear Name’s sake,   Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! Daily word study: OUR HOME The phrase "our home" in Greek is "μονὴν" (monēn), which is derived from "μένω" (menō), meaning "to remain," "to stay," or "to abide." "Monēn" signifies a dwelling place or an abode. It implies a settled residence, emphasizing permanence and stability. In John 14:23, Jesus extends a promise of intimate fellowship to those who love Him and obey His teachings. The promise that He and the Father will make their home with the believer conveys the idea of a permanent and divine presence within the believer's life. This verse not only reassures the disciples of Jesus' continual presence but also invites all believers to experience the fullness of God's indwelling through loving obedience. Reflections Understanding that our obedience to Jesus' teachings invites the indwelling presence of God can inspire a more intentional and loving adherence to His commands. How can you create a more welcoming space in your heart and life for God's continual presence through love and obedience?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 22, 2024 | John 14:15-21 KEY VERSE: Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." John 14:21 (NIV) MESSAGE: The revelation of truth and the receiving of that truth must result in acceptance and compliance to that truth for the truth to benefit the receivers. It is said of the people of Israel that “. . . the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith. Heb 4:2 (NIV). Obedience to the revealed truth is a requirement for living the new life in Jesus Christ. The Lord Jesus spells out in very clear terms the demand and expectation He has of those of us who claim to believe in Him. He has just been teaching about the fact that He is God, and then He declares, "If you love me, you will obey what I command.” John 14:15 (NIV). Putting the thought together we can understand that true belief in the claims of Christ to His being God should lead to a deep love for Him. This love if it exists at all must show forth in willing joyous obedience to Him. Any claim to believing in the person, deity and sacrificial death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus, which does not result in a transformed way of be-ing, thinking and doing raises serious questions as to the authenticity of that faith declaration. The proof of Christian faith is the character of Christ displayed by the believer. The icing on the cake is that when we commit to obedience to Christ and His teachings we are drawn into and given access to God and to fellowship with God; “Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him." (John 14:10). Wow, what a word! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you believe in Jesus Christ as your God who died in your place? Do you believe in His teachings and the demands they make of you? Then let us commit to living by His truth and its demands, and we shall be truly blessed. PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I believe in you, I love you, and I want to follow you all my life long. Please help me to obey your commands and grant me the joy of a living loving walk with you. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: SHOW MYSELF The phrase "show myself" in Greek is "ἐμφανίσω ἐμαυτόν" (emphanisō emauton). "ἐμφανίσω" (emphanisō) means "to manifest," "to reveal," or "to show," and "ἐμαυτόν" (emauton) means "myself." This phrase indicates a self-revelation or a clear manifestation of one’s presence or nature. In our key verse for today's devotional, we learn that obedience leads to a deeper fellowship where Jesus promises to reveal Himself to the obedient believer. This self-revelation is a significant aspect of the relationship between the believer and Christ, highlighting that true knowledge of Jesus is contingent upon following His teachings. The passage assures believers that their faithful obedience will result in a personal and profound encounter with Jesus, characterized by divine love and presence. Reflections. Understanding that obedience to Christ opens the door to deeper divine fellowship can transform how we approach our daily lives and spiritual practices. It challenges us to view obedience not as a duty but as an opportunity for a richer, more intimate relationship with Jesus. How can you cultivate obedience in your life to experience a deeper revelation and fellowship with Jesus Christ?